Istanbul, one of the most vibrant megacities in the world, uniquely intertwines the past and the present, as well as harmoniously combines features of European and Asian culture.
The city is world famous for its sights. Thus, the Anatolian side of the city has gained fame for its combination of tranquility and liveliness. It is distinguished by beautiful nature, historical sites, vibrant nightlife, fine cuisine.
Here are some of the best areas to visit on the Anatolian side.
The amazing atmosphere of the Prince Islands
The Princes' Islands off the coast of Istanbul are an ideal choice for those who want both the tranquility of island life and the dynamism of the metropolis. The Princes' Islands are located close to the Anatolian side of the city, among the blue expanses of the Marmara Sea. They are famous for their magnificent nature, the dizzying smell of mimosa, which carries a light breeze, as well as ancient mansions where the most famous writers of Turkey once lived.
The belt of historical districts lying along the Bosphorus
After getting off the ferry in Uskyudar, head straight to the Anatolian Fortress. Along the way you will see charming neighborhoods and elegant buildings built hundreds of years ago. The first stop – Kuzgunjuk – will surprise you with its bright buildings with a centuries-old history, huge plane trees, ancient gardens where vegetables and fruits are still grown, as well as a church, synagogue, mosques.
Beylerbeyi, one of the oldest quarters on the Bosphorus, which captivates tourists with landscapes and the palace of sultans. The Beylerbeyi Palace, located right under the bridge, connects the two sides of the city. He has become a cult symbol of this territory. The palace impresses visitors with a view of the Bosphorus, architecture in which eastern and Western trends have merged, as well as a unique atmosphere in any of the four seasons.
Another quarter of Uskyudar, Chengelkey, is known to many people thanks to its coast and an old tea courtyard overlooking the bridge and the Bosphorus. This tea courtyard is a great opportunity to drink Turkish tea with simit while enjoying the stunning scenery. Chengelkey is also famous for its old mansions, picturesque streets and fish restaurants serving delicious seafood meze.
Kadikoy: one of the coolest neighborhoods in the world
Kadikoy is rightfully considered the most popular area of the Anatolian side. Unsurprisingly, Kadikoy was twice called one of the "coolest neighborhoods in the world", in 2019 and 2021. Recently, Kadikoy has firmly taken its place among the centers of public life in Istanbul thanks to its cafes, pubs, restaurants, wine cellars and taverns. However, the Adam's apple always opens from a new side. This is a whole city within a city where you will find antique shops, record shops and second-hand books, a pharmacy built a century ago, and even an opera house. The Sureya Opera House welcomes the audience coming to the performances with its remarkable architecture and serves as an elegant decoration of Bahariye Street. Going down it on foot or by vintage tram, you will get to the charming seaside district of Fashion. Here you can drink tea or coffee in the cafe on the pier, admiring the fascinating views. And if you want to feel like a local, then on a warm summer evening arrange a picnic on the coast to meet the sunset there later.
Baghdad Avenue: More than just a street
Baghdad Avenue, stretching for 14 kilometers, is considered the most fashionable street of the Anatolian side, and is also famous all over the world for its first-class boutiques. Many local and international brands from the world of fashion and design are represented on this street, which runs between Kadikoy and Bostanji districts. In addition to a long walk along the shop windows, you can treat yourself to all kinds of local and world cuisine.
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