Exploring Istanbul’s Asian Side

Istanbul is not the only city that straddles two continents. There are other cities that are located on more than one continent and are called transcontinental cities. Some of these cities include Suez in Egypt, Magnitogorsk and Orenburg in Russia, and Atyrau in Kazakhstan. So maybe not technically but Istanbul is certainly the largest, best known, and most important urban area on a continental divide.

A city of 20 million (unofficially), is literally divided into 2 sections; while the European side is more well-known to travelers, Istanbul Asian side (also known as the Anatolian side) offers a unique perspective on the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive guide to Istanbul Anatolian side, covering its history, topology, demographics, transportation, infrastructure, tourism attractions, alternative destinations, and answers to internet’s burning questions about Istanbul’s other half. You can even find out where to play chess on the Asian side of Istanbul.

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.

History of Istanbul’s Asian Side

Istanbul Asian side has a rich and diverse history that spans 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.

Asian side in Byzantium’s foundational myth

Istanbul’s Asian shores hold a curious twist in the city’s origin story. Legend tells of Byzas, the founder, seeking the “land of the blind” as instructed by an oracle in Delphi. 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.

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:

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.

Overall, getting from the European side to the Asian side of Istanbul is relatively easy and convenient, with several transportation options to choose from.

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 Bagdat Avenue

• Explore the Kuzguncuk neighborhood
• Explore the Kadikoy neighborhood
• Visit the Camlica Mosque
• Check out Caddebostan
• Discover Anadolu Kavağı