Many travelers focus only on Istanbul’s European side, but across the Bosphorus there’s another world waiting. The Asian side is calmer, colorful, and full of local flavor. In just one day, you can explore lively markets, walk along the coast, sip tea in cozy cafés, and catch the sunset by the water. Here’s how to do it.
And if you’d like even more insider tips, maps, and hidden gems beyond this route, you can check our Istanbul Guidebook — it’s the easiest way to explore with confidence.
Kadıköy – Start your day by taking a ferry to 🚤 Kadıköy and explore its vibrant markets. Use our restaurant list to discover our favorite food spots. Instead of eating everything in one place, we recommend trying small bites from different corners — it’s the best way to taste it all!
☕ Moda – After soaking in the lively Kadıköy vibe, head towards 📍 Moda. Enjoy a delicious coffee at one of the cafés we’ve listed in our guide. If you’re into walking, don’t miss a stroll along the Moda seaside — it offers a refreshing view of the Bosphorus from a different angle.
🍽 Optional Experience:
Want the full flavor of Kadıköy? Join a food tour that covers both the European side and Kadıköy — experience all the tastes and local vibes in one go.
🕌 Afternoon
🌿 Çengelköy – Take a taxi to Çengelköy, a beautiful neighborhood where the scenic Bosphorus walk begins. Don’t hesitate to try anything here — it’s full of local flavors with a modern twist.
🏛 Beylerbeyi – Head to Beylerbeyi, one of Istanbul’s iconic neighborhoods. Stroll through the streets to see historic homes, and if you’re interested, visit Beylerbeyi Palace.
If you’re up for it, check out Çamlıca Mosque 🕌, the largest mosque in the city, with stunning panoramic views.
🧗 Optional Activity:
Try a water bike or canoe ride between two continents! (or the other way around)
🌈 Kuzguncuk – Enjoy Turkish tea at a cozy local café, explore artisan shops, and take a peaceful walk back to the Üsküdar coast to catch the sunset over the Bosphorus.
🌅 Üsküdar – Finally, explore the traditional, lived-in charm of Üsküdar. (We already shared the itinerary for Üsküdar earlier — [click here to view it]
🍦 Wrap up your day with an ice cream and decide how you’d like to spend your evening.
⎻ For Asian Side Highlights Tour, click here!
⎻ For Europe to Asia Food Tour, click here!
⎻ For Waterbike / Cano, click here!
Enjoy the ride, take your time, and let the Asian side of Istanbul surprise you!
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