Travel Highlights - Istanbul Kadikoy

Kadıköy (Asian District)

When it comes to Istanbul, well-known landmarks like the historic Hagia Sophia, the iconic Blue Mosque, the Basilica Cistern, and the Topkapi Palace all originate from Istanbul's Old City, on the European side. The New City, across the Golden Horn, also boasts opulent attractions like the Dolmabahçe Palace, Istiklal Avenue, and Taksim Square. However, across the Bosphorus, lies the Asian District (Kadıköy/Üsküdar). While this district offers fewer tourist attractions, many Istanbul residents live there and commute to the European side, making it a great place to glimpse local life. Besides the European side, it's also worth taking a ferry to the Asian side and spending an afternoon relaxing in a cafe.

The Bosphorus, approximately 30 kilometers long and 3.7 kilometers wide, lies between Europe and Asia. It divides Istanbul, Turkey's economic and cultural center, into two separate shores. Since you've arrived in the world's only city straddling two continents, Europe and Asia, it's worth exploring not only the tourist-rich European Old Town but also the Asian side, across the sea. While the Asian side lacks numerous attractions, the ferry ride from the European side offers breathtaking coastal scenery, offering panoramic views of historical sites like the Galata Tower and Dolmabahçe Palace. Landmarks like the Maiden Tower, a lighthouse perched on the strait and steeped in a tragic love story, are also a must-see when visiting the Asian side.

Getting There: From the European side, take tram line T1 and get off at Eminonu Ferry Station. Many ferry companies are located here, and you can choose a ferry to Kadikoy Terminal on the Asian side. Boat ride time: approximately 25 minutes. There are six ferry terminals, making it difficult for first-time visitors to find your destination. Fortunately, using Google Maps, simply find Kadikoy, your destination port, and ask at the terminal where to board. The most convenient way to take the ferry is to use an Istanbul Card. Due to the devaluation of the lira, prices can vary significantly from what you've found online, and the prices you buy vary, making it difficult to navigate without knowing the route.

The Istanbul Card can be purchased at ticket booths at bus stations, shops, and at tram, subway, and boat ticket offices. To purchase the Istanbul Card, click the "Istanbulkart" option at the bottom of the page. Once you enter the amount, you'll be directed to the next screen. The main difference now (June 2022) is that only 50 lira notes are accepted. Remember, the card machine only accepts 50 lira notes. A 25 TL card deposit will be deducted, so the actual amount is only 25 TL. If you need more than that, you'll have to add more. The price per trip has also increased, from 7.5 TL per trip to T1 tram, boat, or subway. Multiple people can use the card.

Tram T1 passes through the main streets of the old city, Hagia Sophia, Eminonu ferry station, new city, etc.

From the boat you can enjoy the scenery of four different areas, the old city, the new city

The flag is where you will disembark.

This is a local market, so I thought the prices would be cheaper, but it's actually quite expensive.

Among the numerous coffee shops in the Kadıköy area, we chose a café that boasts exquisite decor, from the exterior to the interior. Its retro exterior is complemented by a trendy style. Inside, marble tables and counters, while dark wood walls and furniture add a touch of luxury and create a comfortable, relaxing environment. They offer a wide selection of coffee, lattes, and various beverages, as well as cakes and desserts. Free Wi-Fi is also available, making this a perfect place for a quiet and relaxing afternoon tea.

When we arrived in the new city, we found a famous mussel restaurant, Moda Midyecisi. Mussels have been introduced in many programs. We came here specifically to eat their mussels because they have their own farm. Mussels can be eaten hot, cold, spicy, and in various other ways.

This baked potato is also a famous snack in Turkey, but it was so big that I couldn’t finish it, so I had to give up!

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse