Asian Side of Istanbul: What to See and How to Get There
Why you should set aside time for the Asian side of Istanbul, how to get there by ferry, what to see in Kadıköy and Üsküdar, and when is the best time to plan your visit.
Why Visit the Asian Side of Istanbul
Most tourists spend their entire trip on the European side of Istanbul and only see the “postcard” version of the city — Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, and Topkapı Palace. This is certainly a must-see itinerary, but it represents only one side of Istanbul, designed around the tourist flow.
The Asian side is the same city, but without the dense tourist infrastructure: local markets, cafés where menus are not translated into English, and waterfront promenades where Istanbul residents come to walk after work in the evenings. For those who want to experience the authentic rhythm of Turkish culture rather than just visit historical landmarks, the Asian side is an essential part of the itinerary.
How to Get There: Ferry Routes
You can reach the Asian side by metro through the tunnel under the Bosphorus, but the most worthwhile option is taking a ferry. The journey takes 15–25 minutes depending on the route and becomes part of the experience itself: from the water, you can enjoy views of palaces, mosques, and both bridges spanning the strait.
| Route: | Travel time: | Destination: |
|---|---|---|
| Eminönü — Üsküdar | ~15 minutes | Üsküdar waterfront, 16th-century mosques |
| Karaköy — Kadıköy | ~20 minutes | Kadıköy market and cafés |
| Beşiktaş — Üsküdar | ~15 minutes | Near Dolmabahçe Palace on the way back |
| Kabataş — Kadıköy | ~25 minutes | Direct route without transfers from the tourist center |
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Payment is made with İstanbul Kart, the same card used for trams and metro. Ferries run frequently, on average every 15–20 minutes during the daytime, so there is almost no need to plan your day around the schedule.
Kadıköy: Market and Local Atmosphere
Kadıköy is the most popular district on the Asian side among Istanbul residents themselves. Here you will find a lively fish and food market, dozens of small cafés and bars on narrow streets, vintage bookstores, and street art. Restaurant prices here are noticeably lower than in the tourist areas of Sultanahmet, while the atmosphere is more relaxed and has a more local, authentic feel.
In the evening, the Kadıköy waterfront and the neighboring Moda district are among the favorite walking spots for locals: seaside cafés, sunsets over the Sea of Marmara, and views of the historic city center skyline in the distance.
Üsküdar: Waterfront and Mosques
Üsküdar is a more traditional and peaceful district, known for its waterfront promenade with views of the European side and the Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi), standing directly in the water at the entrance to the Bosphorus. It has fewer tourists than Kadıköy and a noticeably more conservative, calm atmosphere.
The district is home to several historic 16th-century mosques, including the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque designed by the famous architect Sinan — an interesting contrast to the better-known landmarks on the European side.
Çamlıca and Viewing Points
Çamlıca Hill (Çamlıca Tepesi) is the highest point in Istanbul, offering panoramic views of the entire city and both bridges over the Bosphorus. Nearby is the Çamlıca Grand Mosque — one of the largest mosques in Turkey, built relatively recently, with impressive scale and stunning interior design.
The easiest way to reach Çamlıca is by taxi or private transfer — public transport is available, but it requires transfers. The location is best suited for a relaxed walk and taking in the views rather than a quick visit.
When and How to Plan Your Visit
To explore the Asian side, half a day is enough — take a ferry, walk around Kadıköy or Üsküdar, and return by ferry while enjoying the sunset views. If you want to add Çamlıca Hill and take a more relaxed pace, plan for a full day.
The best time to visit is the second half of the day: mornings are busier with locals commuting to the European side for work, while in the evening ferries become more comfortable, and sunset offers the best views of the city from the water.
Why Include It in Your Itinerary Through an Agency?
Planning a route on the Asian side independently is not difficult, but for groups — business delegations, wedding guests, or sports teams — logistics become more complex: ferry schedules need to be coordinated, transportation to Çamlıca must be arranged, and sufficient time at each location must be considered. HBS TOURTourism destination HBS GROUPIncludes the Asian side in Istanbul sightseeing programs for individual travelers and groups.
If after the Asian side you would like to continue your journey beyond the city, take a look at the article. “Relaxation in Polonezköy near Istanbul” — this area is located nearby, in the direction of Beykoz.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time is needed for the Asian side?
Does İstanbul Kart work on ferries?
Which district of the Asian side should you choose if you are short on time?
Do you need to book the ferry in advance?
Would you like to include the Asian side in your itinerary?
HBS GROUP will plan your program across both sides of the Bosphorus — with experience since 2000 and more than 1,200 completed projects in Turkey.