Turkey
Peaceful and cool: Discover Istanbul’s Anatolian Side
Istanbul, the city that bridges two continents, is a unique blend of European and Asian cultures. The Anatolian side of the city, located on the Asian continent, offers a peaceful yet “cool” experience. With its natural beauty, historic landmarks, exciting nightlife, delicious cuisine, and plenty of shopping options, there’s something for everyone.
The Prince Islands, located off the coast of the Anatolian side, are known for their beautiful nature and historical mansions. These islands offer a perfect escape for those who want to experience both the tranquillity of island life and the sparkle of İstanbul.
Historical Neighbourhoods Run Beside the Bosphorus. Once you get off the ferry in Üsküdar and head straight to Anadolu Hisarı, you will find yourself in beautiful neighbourhoods and elegant buildings that are hundreds of years old. Kuzguncuk, your first stop, will amaze you with its colourful buildings lined up among the Bosphorus Strait, giant plane trees, inviting cafés, and historical orchards still used today. Beylerbeyi, one of İstanbul’s oldest stops in Bosphorus, captivates visitors with its coastline and historical Beylerbeyi Palace.
Most people know Çengelköy, another historical district in this region, for its coastline and ancient tea garden overlooking the Bosphorus. This garden is a beautiful spot to stop for a Turkish tea with a simit and enjoy the stunning view. Çengelköy is also famous for its centuries-old mansions, picturesque neighbourhoods and fish restaurants where you can enjoy mezes with tasty seafood.
Kadıköy: One of the Coolest Neighbourhoods in the World
Kadıköy is widely regarded as the most popular neighbourhood on the Anatolian side. With its cafes, pubs, restaurants, wine houses, and taverns, Kadıköy has become one of İstanbul’s most vibrant social hubs in recent years. It also welcomes you to check out its antique shops, record stores, second-hand bookshops, a century-old pharmacy, and even an opera house. The Süreyya Opera House opens its doors to guests on performance evenings, and draws in audiences like a decorative ornament in the heart of Bahariye Street.
