Things to Do on the Asian Side of Istanbul

Istanbul is a large and diverse city, with much to explore on both the European and Asian sides of the city. The Asian side of Istanbul is particularly exciting, as it offers visitors a chance to experience a different side of the city. From traditional markets to iconic landmarks, here are some of the best things to do on the Asian side of Istanbul.

Visit the Grand Bazaar

One of the most iconic attractions in Istanbul is the Grand Bazaar, located on the Asian side of the city. The bazaar is a massive indoor market, filled with hundreds of vendors selling everything from jewelry and carpets to spices and textiles. The market dates back to the 16th century and is one of the oldest and largest in the world. It is a great place to shop for souvenirs, explore the city’s culture, and barter with the locals.

Explore the Spice Bazaar

Another popular attraction located on the Asian side of Istanbul is the Spice Bazaar. This market was built in the early 17th century and is home to over 100 vendors selling an array of spices, herbs, and dried fruits. The market is a great place to shop for unique ingredients and explore the smells and flavors of the city.

Visit the Dolmabahçe Palace

The Dolmabahçe Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul. Located on the Asian side of the city, the palace was built in the mid-19th century and served as the royal residence of the Ottoman Empire. Today, it is open to the public and visitors can explore the palace’s opulent rooms and admire the ornate architecture.

Visit the Camlica Hill

The Camlica Hill is one of the best places to get a panoramic view of Istanbul. Located on the Asian side of the city, the hill offers visitors an unparalleled view of the Bosporus and the city skyline. Visitors can also explore the hill’s gardens and take in the peaceful atmosphere.

Explore the Aya Yorgi Church

The Aya Yorgi Church is a beautiful Byzantine church located on the Asian side of Istanbul. The church dates back to the 6th century and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate mosaics. Visitors can explore the church and admire its history and art.

Visit the Beylerbeyi Palace

The Beylerbeyi Palace is a stunning Ottoman-era palace located on the Asian side of Istanbul. The palace was built in the mid-19th century and is known for its opulent decor and grand architecture. Visitors can explore the palace’s ornate rooms and admire the intricate details of the building.

Explore the Princes’ Islands

The Princes’ Islands are a group of nine islands located off the coast of Istanbul. The islands are a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, and offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can explore the islands’ streets and enjoy the beautiful atmosphere.

Visit the Maiden’s Tower

The Maiden’s Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul. Located off the coast of the Asian side of the city, the tower was built in the 12th century and is known for its unique architecture and beautiful views. Visitors can take a boat to the tower and explore the interior and exterior of the building.

Explore the Suleymaniye Mosque

The Suleymaniye Mosque is one of the largest and most iconic mosques in Istanbul. Located on the Asian side of the city, the mosque was built in the 16th century and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate details. Visitors can explore the mosque and admire its beauty.

Conclusion

The Asian side of Istanbul is full of incredible attractions and activities to explore. From the Grand Bazaar to the Princes’ Islands, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant and fascinating city. Whether you are looking to shop, explore, or just take in the views, the Asian side of Istanbul is the perfect place to start.

An Insider’s Guide to the Asian Side of Istanbul

Istanbul is a city that captures the hearts of tourists with its rich culture, history, and stunning architecture. While the European side of Istanbul is more popular among tourists, the Asian side offers an opportunity to explore lesser-known gems and dive deep into the culture and traditions of this vibrant city. Here’s an insider’s guide to exploring the Asian side of Istanbul.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

Most tourists flock to popular attractions like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque in the European side of Istanbul. Still, the Asian side has its share of hidden gems that are worth exploring. A visit to the stunning Beylerbeyi Palace, located on the coast of the Bosphorus, provides an opportunity to explore the opulent life of Ottoman sultans. The palace has a beautiful garden, a pool, and superb views of the Bosphorus that will leave you in awe. Another hidden treasure is the Kuzguncuk district, which is filled with charming old houses, cobblestone streets, and local shops selling handicrafts and antiques. This small district also offers a peek into the multi-cultural history of Istanbul, as it was once a melting pot of Greeks, Jews, and Armenians.

Dining Spots: Savoring Local Cuisine

Istanbul’s cuisine is a fusion of various cultures and a rich blend of flavors. When you visit the Asian side of Istanbul, make sure to sample the famous Turkish breakfast, which includes bread, cheese, honey, olives, and boiled eggs. One of the best places to experience the Turkish breakfast is at the Asuman breakfast restaurant in the Moda district. For lunch or dinner, head to Ciya Sofrası in Kadıköy, which serves traditional Ottoman and Anatolian dishes. The restaurant’s owner and chef, Musa Dağdeviren, has spent years researching local recipes, and his dishes are a testament to the rich culinary history of Istanbul.

Cultural Experiences: Embracing Traditions and Customs

Istanbul is a city rich in traditions, festivals, and customs that have been passed down through generations. One such experience is a visit to the Rüstem Pasha Mosque, located in the Tahtakale neighborhood. This mosque is adorned with beautiful Iznik tiles and is considered to be one of the most stunning mosques in Istanbul. Another cultural experience in Istanbul is a visit to a Turkish bath or hammam. The Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı, located in Tophane, is a magnificent example of Ottoman architecture and one of the most well-preserved Turkish baths in the city.

Local History: Stories from the Past

Istanbul is a city steeped in history, and the Asian side has its share of captivating stories from the past. The Maiden’s Tower, located on a small island in the Bosphorus, has a dark legend surrounding it. According to one story, an oracle told the king that his daughter would die from a snake bite. To protect her, the king built the Maiden’s Tower, thinking she would be safe from snakes. Unfortunately, a snake hidden in a basket of fruit killed her. The tower has been converted into a restaurant and is a must-see while visiting the Asian side of Istanbul.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences

For a unique experience, head to the Büyükada Island, one of the Princes’ Islands in the Sea of Marmara. This island is car-free and is an excellent place to escape the hustle and bustle of Istanbul. You can rent a bike or take a horse-drawn carriage to explore the island’s narrow streets and breathtaking views. Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is a visit to the SALT Galata museum, which hosts exhibitions on contemporary art, architecture, and urbanism. The building itself is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture and offers a glimpse of Istanbul’s modern art scene.

In conclusion, the Asian side of Istanbul is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. From hidden attractions and savoring local cuisine to embracing traditions and customs and discovering captivating stories from the past, there is no end to the unique experiences you can have in Istanbul. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of the Asian side of Istanbul!