Things To Do In Uskudar

Uskudar, a city located on the Asian side of Istanbul, beckons with its fascinating history and vibrant culture. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Uskudar has something to offer everyone. With its beautiful natural scenery, ancient architecture, and rich cultural heritage, Uskudar is sure to captivate and entertain you.

A Brief History of Uskudar

Uskudar has been inhabited since the Neolithic period and has been the site of many civilizations over the centuries. It has been home to Greeks, Romans, Venetians, Genoese, and Ottomans, who brought their own unique customs and traditions to the city. The city was taken by the Ottoman Empire in 1453 and was used as a military base. Uskudar also served as an important trade center between Europe and Asia until the 19th century when Istanbul was declared the capital of the Ottoman Empire.

What Makes Uskudar Unique

Uskudar is unique in that it is one of the few places in Istanbul where you can find a mix of both European and Asian cultures. This makes Uskudar a great place to explore and experience a variety of cultures in one city. The city is also known for its beautiful views of the Bosporus, its many beautiful mosques, and its vibrant nightlife. In addition, Uskudar is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the city, as well as many traditional Turkish dishes.

Things to Do in Uskudar

Uskudar offers a wide variety of activities for both tourists and locals alike. Here are some of the top things to do during your visit to Uskudar.

Visit the Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and most popular attractions in Uskudar. It is a large market where you can find everything from clothing and jewelry to furniture and souvenirs. You can haggle with vendors for the best prices and take home some unique items to remind you of your time in Uskudar. The Grand Bazaar is open from 10am to 7pm Monday through Saturday.

Explore the Historic Sites

Uskudar is home to many historic sites that offer insight into the city’s past. Some of these include the Topkapi Palace Museum, the Ortakoy Mosque, the Maiden’s Tower, and Cemberlitas Bathhouse. These sites are open to visitors year-round and provide a great opportunity to learn more about Uskudar’s history and culture.

Visit the Uskudar Aquarium

The Uskudar Aquarium is one of the largest and most popular aquariums in Istanbul. It is home to a variety of marine life including fish, turtles, reptiles, and amphibians. Visitors can explore the aquarium’s exhibits and learn about the different types of sea life living in Istanbul’s waters. The aquarium is open from 9am to 5pm every day except for Mondays.

Take a Bosphorus Cruise

One of the best ways to experience Uskudar is by taking a Bosphorus cruise. On this cruise, you will have the opportunity to learn about the city’s history as you take in its beautiful views from the water. You will also have the chance to view some of Uskudar’s most iconic landmarks such as the Maiden’s Tower, Dolmabahce Palace, and Ortakoy Mosque.

Tours in Uskudar

Uskudar offers many different tours that allow visitors to learn more about the city’s history and culture. Here are two popular tours that you should consider taking during your visit.

Full Day Tour of Istanbul’s Historic Sites

This full day tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore some of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks including Topkapi Palace Museum, Hagia Sophia Museum, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Suleymaniye Mosque, Hippodrome, Cemberlitas Bathhouse and more. The tour also includes lunch at a local restaurant and a boat ride on the Bosphorus. This tour is perfect for those who are looking for an in-depth look into Istanbul’s rich history and culture. Book Full Day Tour of Istanbul’s Historic Sites here.

Bosphorus Cruise with Dinner

This Bosphorus cruise offers visitors a chance to take in some of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks while enjoying dinner on board the boat. This two-hour tour includes views of Dolmabahce Palace, Maiden’s Tower, Beylerbeyi Palace, Ortakoy Mosque and more while you enjoy an authentic Turkish dinner prepared by an on-board chef. This cruise is perfect for those who want to enjoy a relaxing evening on the water while taking in some of Istanbul’s most iconic sights. Book Bosphorus Cruise with Dinner here.

Conclusion

Uskudar is an amazing city with a rich history and vibrant culture that makes it a great destination for travelers from around the world. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Uskudar has something to offer everyone. From exploring its historic sites to taking a Bosphorus cruise with dinner, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy during your visit to Uskudar. So don’t wait any longer – come explore Uskudar!