Visiting the Asian side offers a well-rounded perspective of Istanbul, complementing the historical and tourist attractions of the European side. It’s a peaceful yet vibrant experience not to be missed!
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Introduction to Istanbul's Asian Side
Istanbul isn’t the only city spanning two continents—other transcontinental cities include Suez in Egypt, Magnitogorsk and Orenburg in Russia, and Atyrau in Kazakhstan. However, Istanbul is undoubtedly the largest, most well-known, and historically significant urban area to bridge a continental divide.
With an unofficial population of 20 million, Istanbul is split into two distinct sections. While the European side often captures the attention of travelers, the Asian side (also known as the Anatolian side) offers a fresh perspective on the city’s deep history and vibrant culture.
In this blog post, we’ll provide an in-depth guide to Istanbul’s Anatolian side. From its fascinating history and geography to its diverse demographics, transportation networks, and infrastructure, we’ll explore everything that makes this part of the city unique. We’ll also highlight its top tourist attractions, hidden gems, and even reveal where to enjoy a game of chess on this lesser-known yet captivating side of Istanbul.
Population Patterns: Istanbul’s Asian and European Divide
Istanbul, a city that spans two continents, exhibits a distinct contrast in population distribution between its European and Asian sides. The European side, hosting a significantly higher population, serves as the city’s primary commercial and administrative hub. With a population exceeding 10 million, this region is densely packed with business districts, historical sites, and key infrastructure.
In contrast, Istanbul’s Asian side is home to a smaller population of around 5.6 million people. This lower population density provides a more residential and tranquil atmosphere. Suburban neighborhoods, green spaces, and a more relaxed lifestyle characterize this side, making it a popular choice for families and those seeking refuge from the urban hustle.
Is the Asian Side of Istanbul Worth Visiting?
The question of whether the Asian side of Istanbul is worth visiting is a common one among travelers. While the European side may have more well-known landmarks, the Asian side offers a unique perspective on the city and its history. With its diverse neighborhoods, natural attractions, museums and cultural centers, the Asian side is definitely worth exploring.
We should also mention that we’re talking about a massive area size here. Istanbul’s Asian side has dozens of neighborhoods and exploring it comprehensively usually requires private transportation. In most cases though, catching a ferry and restricting your visit to one or two neighborhoods (like Üsküdar and Kadikoy) makes a lot of sense.
Tours and Attractions on the Asian side
History of Istanbul's Asian Side
Istanbul Asian side has a rich and diverse history that spans 8.5 thousands of years.
The area was first settled in the Neolithic period, and it has been inhabited by various civilizations throughout history, including the Greeks, Persians, Romans, and Ottomans.
The First Settlements
The Asian side of Istanbul, particularly the Fikirtepe area, was inhabited about 8,700 years ago, during the Neolithic period. Archaeological evidence shows that people there practiced agriculture, lived in permanent settlements, and domesticated animals.
The Bosphorus Strait is believed to have formed 7,500–8,000 years ago due to rising sea levels after the Ice Age. It’s likely that people living in Fikirtepe witnessed or experienced the environmental changes caused by its formation, such as flooding and shifts in ecosystems. These events may have significantly impacted their way of life, possibly providing new opportunities for fishing and trade.
Asian side in Byzantium's foundational myth
Byzantium’s foundational myth involves the Asian side of Istanbul (modern Kadıköy) as a key element. Around 657 BCE, Greek settlers from Megara, led by Byzas, sought guidance from the Oracle of Delphi, which advised them to settle “opposite the land of the blind.” Upon arriving at the Bosporus, Byzas interpreted this as a critique of the earlier settlers of Chalcedon (Asian side), who overlooked the strategic advantages of the European side.
Byzas chose the European shore, founding Byzantium on the peninsula that offered a natural harbor (the Golden Horn) and strategic control over trade routes between the Black Sea and the Aegean. The Asian side’s role as the “land of the blind” highlights its importance in the myth, framing the decision that made Byzantium a crossroads of civilizations.
While the myth often depicts the “blind” as lacking foresight in choosing the Asian side over the seemingly superior Sultanahmet area, it adds another dimension to the story of this vibrant district.
In his search for a new Greek colony Byzas had a prophesy from Pythia. He had to find “the land opposite the city of the blind”. Indeed opposite the colony which was already established by Chalcedon he found an ideal place for a city. He gave the new city his name, Byzantium.🏛 pic.twitter.com/KSVhmUHBE6
— Michael Lambda (@Michael_Lambda) May 3, 2020
This intriguing perspective challenges us to see Istanbul’s Asian side not just as the “other side,” but as a place that played a surprising role in the birth of a legendary city.
Greek/Roman/Byzantine periods
During the Byzantine period, the Asian side of Istanbul was an important trading hub, and many wealthy merchants and aristocrats built their homes in the area. Kadiköy (Chalcedon) and Üsküdar (Chrysopolis) are prime examples. Let’s delve into their past:
Chalcedon: This ancient maritime town, now known as Kadıköy, was once a rival of Byzantium (modern-day Istanbul) across the Bosphorus. Its strategic location made it a vital center during various empires.
Chrysopolis: Meaning “Golden City” in Greek, Üsküdar predates Byzantium by a few decades. It was initially overshadowed by Chalcedon but eventually grew in importance.
The Council of Chalcedon and Christian Theology
In 451 AD, Chalcedon played a pivotal role in Christian history by hosting the Fourth Ecumenical Council.
This gathering of Christian bishops aimed to address theological disputes, particularly concerning the nature of Christ.
The Council’s importance lies in its:
- Definition of Christ’s Dual Nature: It established Christ as both fully human and fully divine, a concept central to Christian belief. This definition helped solidify Christian doctrine and countered opposing views like Monophysitism (Christ as only divine).
- Impact on Church Schism: While the Council aimed for unity, its pronouncements contributed to the East-West Schism in 1054 AD. Some Eastern Christian churches rejected certain aspects of the Council’s decisions.
One of the most famous landmarks of this era is the Maiden’s Tower, which was built on an islet at the entrance of the Bosphorus and served as a watchtower and lighthouse.
Ottoman History
In the 15th century, the Ottomans captured Istanbul, and the city became the capital of the Ottoman Empire. The Asian side of the city continued to grow and develop, with many new neighborhoods and palaces being built. One of the most famous Ottoman landmarks on the Asian side is the Beylerbeyi Palace, which was built in the 19th century as a summer residence for the sultan.
During the 20th century, the asian side of the city continued to expand and modernize, with new neighborhoods and infrastructure being built. Today, it is a vibrant and diverse section of Istanbul, with a unique blend of old and new, tradition and innovation.
Anadoluhisarı, is a medieval fortress located in Istanbul, Turkey on the Anatolian (Asian) side of the Bosporus. The complex is the oldest surviving Turkish architectural structure built in Istanbul. 📷 George Rishan pic.twitter.com/x7DH0jcvfU
— Türkiye_Pics 🇹🇷 (@Turkey_Pics) November 9, 2020
Further Exploration
If you’re interested in learning more, here are some suggestions:
- Visit the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. Originally a patriarchal church, it offers a glimpse into the historical significance of the region for Christianity.
- Explore the museums on both sides of the Bosphorus to understand the rich history of the area.
Topology and Infrastructure
Istanbul’s Asian side is characterized by its hilly terrain and stunning natural beauty. The area is bordered by the Bosphorus Strait to the west and the Black Sea to the north, with the Princes’ Islands lying just off the coast. The Asian side is also home to several parks and green spaces, including Fethi Paşa Korusu, Göztepe Park, and the Çamlıca Hill.
In terms of infrastructure, the Asian side has a well-developed transportation network that includes buses, metro, and ferries. The Marmaray tunnel, which connects the European and Asian sides of Istanbul via a submerged tunnel under the Bosphorus, is also a popular mode of transportation for locals and visitors alike. The Asian side also has its own international airport, Sabiha Gökçen Airport, which is located in the Pendik district.
Planning a Trip to Istanbul Asian Side
If you’re planning a trip to the asian side, there are several things to keep in mind. The easiest way to get to the Asian side from Europe is via the Marmaray train or by taking a ferry. The best time to visit is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with the local customs and etiquette to ensure a pleasant and respectful trip.
- Travel Apps: Use Moovit for public transport navigation and Trafi for real-time transit updates.
- Websites and Guides: Check Istanbulkart for transport details, Lonely Planet Istanbul Guide for travel tips, and local blogs like Yabangee or The Istanbul Insider for insider insights.
- Books: Read Strolling Through Istanbul for history and Istanbul Eats for hidden culinary gems.
- Our blog: You may also consider diving deep into our posts and articles about Istanbul’s Asian side.
How to Get from the European Side to the Asian Side
Getting from the European side to the Asian side of Istanbul is relatively easy, thanks to the city’s well-developed transportation network. Here are a few basic tips on how to do it:
Public Ferry
One of the most popular and scenic ways to get from the European side to the Asian side is to take a ferry. Ferries depart regularly from various points along the Bosphorus, including Eminönü, Beşiktaş, and Kabataş, and travel to several destinations on the Asian side, including Kadıköy, Üsküdar, and Bostancı.
Metro
The Marmaray tunnel is a convenient and fast way to travel between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. The tunnel connects the Yenikapı station on the European side with the Üsküdar station on the Asian side, and trains run every few minutes.
Bus
Several bus lines connect the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, including the E-5 highway and the Bosphorus Bridge. Buses run regularly and are a good option for those on a budget. As of April 2023. Some of these bus lines are 14M, 15F, 16D, 20Ü, and SG-1. Click here for MoovitApp’s comprehensive list.
Taxi or Water Taxi
Hailing a cab is always possible with Uber or BiTaksi apps.
Istanbul’s water taxi app can also be very useful if you are ready to spend some big bucks! 🙂
Tourism Attractions in Istanbul's Asian Side
There is no shortage of things to see and do in Istanbul’s Asian part, with landmarks such as the Maiden’s Tower and historic sites like the Beylerbeyi Palace offering a glimpse into the city’s past. Natural attractions such as the Fethi Pasa Korusu park and the Beykoz Korusu forest provide a peaceful respite from the busy city. The Asian side is also home to several arts and culture centers, dining and nightlife options, and shopping districts.
Top 10 Things to Do in Istanbul Asian Side
To help you plan your trip, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 things to do in Istanbul’s Asian segment:
- Visit Maiden’s Tower: Located at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus Strait, Maiden’s Tower, also known as Kız Kulesi in Turkish, is one of the most iconic landmarks of Istanbul, Turkey. The tower has been an integral part of the city’s history and culture for centuries, and its unique architecture and fascinating legends have attracted visitors from all over the world.
- Take a Bosphorus cruise (read our dedicated post on the topic)
- Visit the Beylerbeyi Palace
- Explore the Camlica Hill
- Visit the Anatolian Fortress
- Explore the Kuzguncuk neighborhood
- Explore the Kadikoy neighborhood
- Visit the Camlica Mosque
- Check out Bagdat Avenue and Caddebostan
- Discover Anadolu Kavağı
Neighborhoods to Visit in Istanbul Asian Side
Here are some of the most interesting districts and neighborhoods on the Asian side of Istanbul.
Located on the coast of the Marmara Sea, Kadıköy is one of the most popular neighborhoods on the Asian side of Istanbul. It’s known for its lively atmosphere, street markets, and an excellent street food scene. Kadıköy is also home to several historical landmarks, including the Haydarpaşa Train Station and the Moda Naval Museum.
Moda is a charming neighborhood located just south of Kadıköy. It’s known for its trendy cafes, boutique shops, and vibrant street art scene. Moda is also home to several parks and green spaces, including the Moda Coastal Park.
Caddebostan
Caddebostan is a coastal neighborhood located in the southern part of Istanbul Asian side. It’s known for its long, sandy beaches, trendy cafes, and vibrant nightlife.
The area is popular with locals and visitors alike, who come to swim in the sea, relax in one of the many parks, or enjoy a night out at one of the many bars and clubs.
Caddebostan also boasts several cultural attractions, including the Caddebostan Culture Center, which hosts concerts, exhibitions, and theater performances throughout the year.
Üsküdar
Situated on the Bosphorus, Üsküdar is a historic district that boasts numerous Ottoman-era landmarks and architectural gems. Some of the must-visit attractions in Üsküdar include the Maiden’s Tower, the Yeni Valide Mosque, and the Beylerbeyi Palace.
Kuzguncuk
Kuzguncuk is a charming, historic neighborhood situated on the banks of the Bosphorus, just north of Üsküdar. It’s known for its colorful houses, narrow streets, and quaint cafes. Kuzguncuk was once home to a diverse array of communities, including Greeks, Armenians, and Jews, and it retains much of its multicultural character to this day.
Visitors can explore the area’s historic wooden houses, visit the Kuzguncuk Synagogue, or enjoy a cup of tea at one of the local cafes. Kuzguncuk is also a great place to sample traditional Turkish food, including meze and kebabs, at one of the many local restaurants.
Beykoz
Beykoz is a sprawling district located on the outskirts of Istanbul’s Asian side. It’s known for its tranquil forests, hilltop villages, and stunning views of the Bosphorus. Some of the must-visit attractions in Beykoz include the Anadolu Kavağı fishing village, the Sultaniye Thermal Springs, and the Riva Castle.
Kanlıca
Kanlıca is a quaint neighborhood located on Northern Bosphorus in Beykoz. It’s known for its traditional Ottoman-style wooden houses, historic mansions, and excellent Turkish yogurt. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront promenade, visit the Kanlıca Mosque, or enjoy a bowl of fresh yogurt at one of the many local cafes.
These neighborhoods offer a diverse range of experiences and are sure to delight visitors who venture to Istanbul’s Asian sector.
Best Restaurants on the Asian Side of Istanbul
The Asian side of Istanbul has one of the city’s most rewarding food scenes — and not because it is packed with glamorous destination restaurants. Quite the opposite. This is where Istanbul still excels at neighborhood eating: century-old esnaf lokantaları, crowded fish markets, tiny döner shops, Bosphorus seafood restaurants, modern chef-driven kitchens, and places where lunch can easily become the main event of the day.
Kadıköy and Moda get most of the attention, but some of the best meals are further north in Kuzguncuk, Kandilli, Üsküdar, and Kavacık.
Here are some of our favorite places to eat on Istanbul’s Asian side.
Yanyalı Fehmi Lokantası – Kadıköy's Historic Esnaf Lokantası
For a completely different expression of Turkish food culture, walk a few minutes into the market and find Yanyalı Fehmi Lokantası.
Founded in 1919 and still run by the same family, this is one of Istanbul’s great surviving examples of an esnaf lokantası — literally a “tradesmen’s restaurant.”
Traditionally, these restaurants fed shopkeepers, craftsmen, office workers, and neighborhood residents with affordable home-style dishes prepared fresh each day and displayed behind a long glass counter.
Think lamb stews, stuffed vegetables, soups, pilav, hünkar beğendi, mücver, casseroles, vegetable dishes, and classic Turkish desserts rather than elaborate plating.
If you want to understand how ordinary Istanbulites have eaten for generations, an esnaf lokantası is every bit as culturally interesting as a famous kebab restaurant.
Basta! Street Food Bar – The Dürüm Gets a Fine-Dining Upgrade
Kadıköy is also where some of Istanbul’s most talented younger chefs began playing with traditional street food.
Basta! Street Food Bar was founded by chefs Kaan Sakarya and Derin Arıbaş after working in serious European kitchens. Their idea was wonderfully simple: take something as everyday as the Turkish dürüm and treat it with the precision usually reserved for fine dining.
The result is one of our favorite casual meals in Kadıköy. The lamb dürüm in particular has become something of a modern Istanbul classic.
Basta is a good example of what makes contemporary Istanbul’s food scene so interesting: traditional flavors do not have to be trapped in the past. They can evolve without losing their identity.
Suna'nın Yeri – One of Our Favorite Bosphorus Fish Restaurants
And then there is Suna’nın Yeri.
This one definitely belongs on any serious list of restaurants on Istanbul’s Asian side.
Hidden beside the Bosphorus in Kandilli, Suna’nın Yeri represents a disappearing kind of Istanbul restaurant: unfussy, waterfront, neighborhood-oriented, and completely dependent on the atmosphere of the city around it.
This is not where you come for theatrical presentations or elaborate tasting menus.
You come for fresh seasonal fish, mezes, rakı, sea air, and a table overlooking the Bosphorus.
The journey is part of the experience. Arriving around Kandilli, watching ferries and cargo ships move along the water, and allowing lunch to stretch lazily into the afternoon is about as Istanbul as it gets.
For travelers who ask us where we ourselves would happily spend a long afternoon eating fish, Suna’nın Yeri is very high on the list.
İsmet Baba – Old-School Kuzguncuk on the Water
Another Asian-side institution is İsmet Baba in Kuzguncuk.
Founded in 1951, it has been serving seasonal fish and classic mezes beside the Bosphorus for generations.
The wood-paneled, slightly nostalgic atmosphere is a major part of its charm. This feels much more like old Istanbul than a fashionable seafood restaurant trying to manufacture authenticity.
İsmet Baba is particularly easy to combine with a walk through Kuzguncuk and Üsküdar, making the entire outing as enjoyable as the meal itself.
The Best Döner on Istanbul's Asian Side
Döner deserves its own category.
Istanbulites can argue for hours about who makes the best döner in the city, and there will probably never be a definitive answer. That is part of the fun.
On the Asian side, however, several names deserve serious consideration.
Metet Közde Döner – Kuzguncuk
One of our favorite stops when exploring Kuzguncuk is Metet Közde Döner.
The important word here is közde: the döner is cooked over charcoal rather than simply against a conventional gas burner, giving the meat a deeper, smokier character.
It is rich, crisp around the edges, beautifully simple, and exactly the sort of place where ordering too much is surprisingly easy.
Kuzguncuk itself is worth the journey, so Metet works particularly well as part of a day exploring Üsküdar and the Asian shoreline of the Bosphorus.
Tatar Salim – Kadıköy
For another serious döner experience, try Tatar Salim in Kadıköy.
Their döner has a richer and more unapologetically meaty character than many conventional Istanbul döner shops, and it has built a devoted following among locals.
It is also conveniently located for anyone already exploring Kadıköy, making it easy to incorporate into a larger food crawl through the neighborhood.
Bayramoğlu Döner – Kavacık
Then there is Bayramoğlu Döner in Kavacık.
This one is nowhere near the usual tourist center of Kadıköy — which is precisely the point.
Istanbulites regularly cross the city specifically to eat here. Bayramoğlu has developed almost legendary status among serious döner enthusiasts, particularly for the quality of its meat, its thinly sliced service, and the simplicity of everything accompanying it.
If you are genuinely serious about finding some of the best döner in Istanbul, the detour to Kavacık is justified.
Daily Tours to Istanbul's Asian Side
Several top companies offer daily tours of Istanbul Asian side, which can be a convenient and informative way to explore the area. These tours often include transportation, guides, and visits to top attractions such as the Maiden’s Tower, Beylerbeyi Palace, and Camlica Hill. Some popular tour companies include Istanbul Tour Studio, Context Travel, and us, The Other Tour, we go to the Asian side each and every time!
In addition to these tours, many locals offer alternative experiences through Airbnb, providing visitors with unique and authentic insights into life on the Asian side. Some popular Airbnb experiences include a cooking class in a local home, a visit to a traditional Turkish bath, and a tour of the Kuzguncuk neighborhood with a local guide.
Whether you choose to go on a guided tour or explore on your own, there are plenty of ways to experience the rich history, culture, and beauty of the Istanbul’s Anatolian segment.
Bosphorus Cruises
One of the best ways to experience Istanbul’s Asian side is by taking a Bosphorus cruise. These cruises offer breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and a chance to see many of its historic landmarks from the water.
Several top companies offer daily tours, including traditional boat tours, sunset tours, and private tours. Additionally, many locals offer alternative experiences through Airbnb, such as canoeing in Bosphorus under Istanbul Bridge and sunset yacht cruises with luxury boats.
Which is Better, Istanbul Asia or Istanbul Europe?
The question of whether Istanbul’s Asian side or European side is better ultimately depends on individual preferences and interests. The European side is home to many of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks and historic sites, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapı Palace.
On the other hand, the Asian side offers a more relaxed and authentic experience of Istanbul, with its diverse neighborhoods, natural attractions, and cultural centers. It’s also a great place to escape the crowds and experience a different side of the city.
May be a cop out answer but, both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul offer unique and valuable experiences for travelers. Plus, it’s worth exploring both to get a comprehensive understanding of the city and its rich history and culture.
In conclusion
Istanbul’s Asian side offers a unique perspective on the city’s history and culture, with its diverse neighborhoods, natural attractions, and historic landmarks. By exploring the Asian side, travelers can gain a deeper understanding of Istanbul’s rich heritage and vibrant culture. For further information and resources on exploring Istanbul Asian side, we recommend you drop us a line and we will get back to you ASAP for a free consultation.
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Hey Fethi, would you recommend staying on the asian side? Maybe in Kadikoy? And which hotels would be reckon are good?
Hey Sara,
Just sent you an email about that. We don’t wanna reveal everything here, you know 🙂 Information is power, as they say 🙂
All the best,
Fethi
Took the ferry to Kadıköy last spring almost by accident and ended up staying three hours longer than planned. The chess-cafe detail in this piece is so true, nobody warns you how easy it is to just sit down and get pulled into a game. Wish I’d read this before going, would’ve made time for Üsküdar too.
This is one of the clearest blogs about Istanbul’s Asian Side. Thank you very much for providing such detailed information
Thanks Franky. Some bits were actually quite outdated and thanks to your comments, I’ve just updated those sections – especially the parts about food! So, thank you a bunch!