Asian Side of Istanbul
We will talk about the Asian Side of Istanbul, which is accepted as the new world center with trade and population. In the past, the population crossed over to the European continent when they needed to settle in the city. The fact that historical touristic items come to the fore day by day is not the only reason for this. The Asian side is the new choice of locals who need to get away from the crowd of the city and take a breath. Of course, new clean houses, the availability of every opportunity in every region, and the development of urban transportation increase this demand.
Now let's see which regions are the highlights on the Asian Istanbul side.
KADIKOY
Those who came to today's historical peninsula in the 7th century BC looked at the shores on the Asian continent and said: "Look at these men. If they didn't see the beauties of here and settled there, they must be blind." Thus, Chalcedon (Land of Copper) became famous as the "land of the blind." Today, Kadikoy is one of the most important districts of Istanbul in terms of population, economic activity, and development. Kadikoy is the heart of the Asian continent with its large and small businesses, opera and theaters, its lively streets.
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MODA
Moda, which can be reached with a few minutes' walk from Kadikoy, fascinates travelers with beautiful houses in the city center. You will remain undecided whether to choose backstreets or Moda Bay to spend time. This region, which has remained gentle in the hustle and bustle of the city, will make you love it with its sweet, friendly cafes.
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USKUDAR
This is the Asian coast where miraculous mosques take you to a completely different world. This is a region where you can walk along its shores and sit facing the European side—of course, with bagel and tea in your hand. Before going there, you can stop by Camlica Mosque. If you are late for something, "the man who took the horse passed Uskudar" in Turkish culture. Don't be late to see this place.
BAGDAT STREET
This is the Champs-Elysees of Istanbul. Bagdat Street is a long street ideal for shopping and food enthusiasts. With its luxury boutiques, international chain restaurants, and stylish cafes, this is the meeting point from past to present. It is the melting pot where the older people living in the houses in the back streets and the young people meet for a coffee.
KUZGUNCUK
When you go towards the Bosphorus Bridge, following the Uskudar shores, you come across a pretty little town. From this point on, up to the Black Sea, the Asian coasts will make you love it step by step. For a second, the street can look like any pretty street to you, but the sweet cafes of the small back streets will surprise you. There are ideal options, especially for vegetarian, pescatarian, and vegan travelers. The mosque, church, and synagogue, which share the same courtyard, will conquer your heart.
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BEYLERBEYI
We are in the region that hosts the Beylerbeyi Palace, a sibling building to Dolmabahce Palace. This is a gift of the 19th century and a town with a completely different vibe thanks to the beauty of its people. It is also known as a fishing town; therefore, you can find many lovely fish restaurants on its tiny shore.
CENGELKOY
We can say that Cengelkoy is the place where mansions by the sea, called yalis, begin. These are the shores with beautiful houses that you will come across while on a boat tour on the Bosphorus. Most importantly, it hosts Cinaralti, one of the famous tea gardens of the Turks. You can read detailed information about Cinaralti in our Breakfast Places article here.
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ANADOLU HISARI (Anatolian Fortress)
Anadolu Hisari is located at one of the narrowest points of the Bosphorus. Countless features make this place one of the most beautiful coasts on the Asian Istanbul side. Kucuksu Mansion, a tiny version of Dolmabahce Palace from the 19th century, is one reason. The beauty of the two streams coming together is another reason, and the stylish cafes at the entrance of the region from the sea are other reasons.
ANADOLU KAVAGI (Anatolian Village)
Hello, a real fishermen's town. This is the last town on the Anatolian coast along the Bosphorus line. Anadolu Kavagi is a tiny green village-like town that you will reach after a wonderfully enjoyable boat ride. It greets guests with fish restaurants spread around Yoros Castle, which you will reach after a short 20-minute uphill walk. Perhaps an ice cream will accompany you on the way back, and you can buy souvenirs from its tiny shops to keep your memories with you always.
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The Final Word
We have selected and shared a few towns on the Asian side of Istanbul with you. We hope you will experience and share with us the same joy we feel. In the smell of tea, the color of a glass of wine, while walking on the shores, or while admiring the birdhouses on the mosques' walls, we wanted you to remember us.