Discovering Istanbul’s Asian Side, the city where two continents meet, is full of treasures. While the European side often gets the spotlight, the Asian side offers a quieter, more local experience filled with historic sites, beautiful views, and delicious food. Join me on a journey from Üsküdar to Yoros Castle, exploring some of the most charming spots along the Bosphorus.
Starting Point: Üsküdar
Our Discovering Istanbul’s Asian Side adventure begins in Üsküdar, a vibrant district on the Asian side of Istanbul. Üsküdar is a hub of activity, with its bustling streets, historic mosques, and the lively waterfront where you can catch a ferry to almost anywhere along the Bosphorus. It’s a perfect starting point for our tour.
Make sure to give a visit to the market area right which is close to the iskele (dock), at the centre of a bustling shopping precinct. Shops sell fruit, vegetables, fish, dried nuts, pickles, spices and sweets.
The area also have historical mosques:
You can visit Mihrimah Sultan Mosque that located near the square. This 16th-century mosque was designed by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan. It’s a beautiful example of classical Ottoman architecture and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy streets. And also you can visit Valide-i Cedid Mosque. After that you can see the Maiden’s Tower from coast by 5 minutes walking. But Maiden’s Tower shuttle ferries now begins from Karaköy.
One of the best ways to discovering Istanbul’s Asian Side is by taking a ferry. The ferry ride not only offers stunning views of both the European and Asian shores but also allows you to hop off at various stops to explore different neighborhoods. Today, we’ll head towards Anadolu Hisarı and eventually Yoros Castle, two historic landmarks that hold stories from the Ottoman era.
Leaving Üsküdar, you’ll head north along the Bosphorus, following Paşalimanı Street. This route offers lovely views of the water and the European side of Istanbul across the strait.
Note: I made this post to guide you throughout your visit in to Asian side of Istanbul but filmed different parts of it in different seasons for my Youtube channel. So some scenes and photos are from summer and some from winter. If you have only one day to visit in the Asian side you can skip some of the routes or if you are staying for a longer time there are much more to do then the once you will read here. But this article can give you a good brief knowledge on what to expect and places to visit.
Kuzguncuk
Kuzguncuk is just a short drive away, and you’ll know you’ve arrived when you start seeing the colorful, historic wooden houses that line the streets. It is a peaceful neighborhood known for its charming cafes and a mix of churches and synagogues reflecting its diverse cultural heritage.
Things to Do in Kuzguncuk:
- Stroll through the narrow streets, colorful houses and admire the historic wooden houses.
- Visit the Botanic Garden, a lovely community garden where locals grow vegetables.
- Enjoy a coffee at one of the cozy cafes, like Çikolatacı Aziz Bey.
- Visit the famous Tarihi Kuzguncuk Fırını.
Beylerbeyi Palace
After exploring Kuzguncuk, continue your journey along the Bosphorus towards Beylerbeyi Palace. You’ll continue north on Paşalimanı Street, which eventually becomes Beylerbeyi Street. The road will take you through more residential areas, with glimpses of the Bosphorus along the way. Also you can visit Hamid-i Evvel Mosque in Beylerbeyi area.
Beylerbeyi Palace, an opulent 19th-century Ottoman palace, is located right on the shores of the Bosphorus. This palace, with its elegant architecture and beautiful gardens, was used as a summer residence by the Ottoman sultans. And, also served as a guest house for visiting foreign dignitaries.
Things to Do at Beylerbeyi Palace:
- Take a guided tour of the palace to learn about its history and the life of the Ottoman elite.
- Wander through the lush gardens, which offer stunning views of the Bosphorus.
- Visit the seaside pavilion and imagine what it was like to stay in such a grand residence.
A Quick Stop in Çengelköy
As we sail along the Bosphorus, our third stop is Çengelköy, a charming neighborhood famous for its picturesque streets. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll, take in the views of the Bosphorus. And, of course, indulge in some local street food. Simit, a sesame-crusted bread, is a must-try. The smell of freshly baked simit wafting through the air is irresistible, and it’s the perfect snack for our journey. Also me and my daughter suggest you to try borek pastry from famous Çengelköy Börekçisi. If you want to look my recipes about borek pastries here are the some of my borek recipes:
- Rolled Spinach Borek “Ispanaklı Borek”
- 2 Ingredients Easy Turkish Borek
- Turkish Borek With White Cheese
In Çengelköy, we also visit the Kuleli Military High School, an iconic institution dating back to the Ottoman Empire. Nearby, the Kuleli Kaymak Mustafa Pasha Mosque, an 18th-century marvel, stands as a testament to the area’s rich history. The serene atmosphere and stunning architecture make it a worthwhile stop before continuing our journey.
Anadolu Hisarı Museum: First Castle built by Ottomans
Our next destination is Anadolu Hisarı, a fortress built in the 15th century by Sultan Yıldırım Bayezid. This fortress was the first Ottoman structure on the Bosphorus and played a crucial role in the conquest of Constantinople. The fortress is relatively small, especially when compared to Rumeli Hisarı on the European side. But offers a peaceful spot to enjoy the Bosphorus breeze.
Walking through Anadolu Hisarı, you can almost feel the weight of history. The fortress was strategically placed at the narrowest point of the Bosphorus. And, making it a key point in controlling the waterway. The views from the fortress are stunning, with the Bosphorus stretching out on one side.
Kanlıca and Hidiv Kasrı
Next, we pass by Kanlıca, a small town famous for its yogurt. Kanlıca’s yogurt is renowned throughout Istanbul, often enjoyed with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. The town itself is quaint, with a few eateries and restaurant. But its main attraction is the yogurt, which locals and tourists alike savor while enjoying the Bosphorus views.
From Kanlıca, we move on to Hidiv Kasrı, an impressive mansion built in the early 20th century. It is on hte uphill of Kanlıca. It was a very steep road to walk for us but took about 15 minutes. You can get a take a taxi for a short drive to reach. The mansion, surrounded by beautiful gardens, was once the residence of the Khedive of Egypt. Today, it’s a popular spot for weddings and special events. And, its location on a hill provides breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.
Reaching Yoros Castle
Our final stop is Yoros Castle, located in Anadolu Kavağı, a small town at the northernmost tip of the Bosphorus. Yoros Castle, built by the Genoese in the 13th century, sits atop a hill overlooking the Bosphorus. The castle ruins are a bit of a hike, but the panoramic views make it worth the effort.
As you climb up to Yoros Castle, the air becomes fresher, and the views more expansive. From the top, you can see the Bosphorus winding its way through Istanbul, with the third Bosphorus bridge. The castle itself, though in ruins, still exudes a sense of grandeur and history.
Wrapping Up the Journey
After exploring Yoros Castle, it’s time to head back. The ferry ride from Anadolu Kavağı to Üsküdar offers a final chance to soak in the beauty of the Bosphorus. The journey may have been long, but every stop along the way was filled with history, beauty, and delicious food.
If you’re planning a visit to Istanbul, don’t miss discovering the Istanbul’s Asian side. From the vibrant streets of Üsküdar to the historic Yoros Castle, this side of the city offers a unique glimpse into Istanbul’s rich past and vibrant present. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone who loves a good view, the Asian side of Istanbul has something for everyone.
A Comprehensive Guide to Transportation from Eminönü
The Asian side of Istanbul offers a rich blend of history, culture, and stunning views. While most tourists tend to focus on the European side, venturing across the Bosphorus can reveal some of the city’s most charming neighborhoods. Whether you’re planning a day trip or exploring new daily routes, this guide covers all the transportation options from Eminönü to the Asian side.
1. Ferries: The Classic Bosphorus Experience
Routes:
– Eminönü to Üsküdar: The most popular and frequent ferry route. The journey takes about 10-15 minutes and offers spectacular views of the historic peninsula, including the Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, and the Blue Mosque.
Why choose the Ferry?
– Scenic Views: The Bosphorus Strait is one of the most beautiful waterways in the world, and taking the ferry allows you to soak in the views of both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
– Affordable: Ferries are one of the cheapest ways to cross between continents, and they are also covered by the Istanbulkart, making it a cost-effective choice.
2. Marmaray: Fast and Efficient
Routes:
The Marmaray is an underwater rail system connecting the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. From Eminönü, you can hop on at the Sirkeci station and travel to various points on the Asian side, including Üsküdar, Ayrılık Çeşmesi (connection to the M4 Metro), and more distant locations like Maltepe and Kartal.
Also you can get the Marmaray from Yenikapı station to Üsküdar too.
Why choose the Marmaray?
– Speed: The Marmaray is one of the fastest ways to get from the European to the Asian side, with a journey from Sirkeci to Üsküdar taking just a few minutes.
– Connectivity: It offers seamless transfers to other public transportation lines, making it easier to explore deeper into the Asian side.
3. Private Boats and Taxis: A Luxurious Option
Routes:
Private boats and water taxis offer a more exclusive and flexible way to travel between Eminönü and various destinations on the Asian side, such as Beykoz, Anadolu Hisarı, and even the Princes’ Islands.
Why Choose Private Boats or Taxis?
– Flexibility: You can depart whenever you want and choose your exact destination.
– Comfort: Enjoy a personalized journey across the Bosphorus with fewer crowds.
4. Metro: Connect to the Heart of the Asian Side
Route:
While the Metro doesn’t directly connect Eminönü to the Asian side, you can take the T1 Tram to Kabataş or the Marmaray to Yenikapı, where you can transfer to the M2 Metro Line to reach areas like Ümraniye and beyond.
Why Choose the Metro?
– Extended Reach: The Metro takes you to areas of the Asian side that are not easily accessible by ferry.
– Avoid Traffic: A great option for avoiding Istanbul’s notorious traffic, especially during rush hour.
No matter which mode of transportation you choose, crossing from Eminönü to the Asian side of Istanbul is an adventure in itself. Each option offers a unique experience, whether you’re looking for speed, comfort, scenic views, or simply a more immersive way to explore the city. With your Istanbulkart in hand, you’re ready to discover the hidden gems that await you across the Bosphorus. Happy travels!
Don’t forget to look at these links too:
- 10 Most Popular Turkish Street Foods In Istanbul
- Galataport Istanbul Guide
- Istanbul Balat Guide From Local
- Suleymaniye Mosque: Plan Your Trip
