Kadikoy

All About Istanbul’s Kadikoy

Istanbul, as we know, is split between two continents. Some of the city is in Europe, and some is in Asia. The whole thing is connected together by the huge Bosphorus Bridge, or, if you go underwater, the Marmaray Metro line.

Whilst the most famous parts of the city are arguably on the European side, e.g. Sultanahmet, Taksim, and Besiktas, the Asian side is also packed with culture and things to see and do. There is plenty of history still over in Asia, but it is a little more residential and therefore cultural. This means that visitors who head over to this side of the water will get a more authentic experience as a whole. The fact it is so easy to travel back and forth is another huge bonus.

The Asian side is made up of several small towns and neighbourhoods, and there is the Sabiha Gokcen Airport over this side too. One of the most popular parts of the Asian side of Istanbul is without a doubt vibrant Kadikoy.

As you look over at the Asian side from the Galata Bridge, Kadikoy is on the waterfront, on your right. This means that the water from the Bosphorus heads out into the Sea of Marmara from there, and over towards those huge tankers which lurk in the distance. You can jump on the ferry over to Kadikoy from Karakoy or Eminonu, and vice versa. The trip by ferry is a must do, at least once, and if you can sit upstairs (and it’s not too cold), you’ll enjoy the seagulls trying to chase the ferry and grab pieces of bread from those who offer to them!

The Taksim of Asia?

Once you arrive in Kadikoy you’ll instantly see how busy and thriving it is. Kadikoy is a much cheaper place than over on the European side, and there are some fantastic bars, restaurants, and shops over on this side. Kadikoy is also most famously known for being the home of Fenerbahce football club, and if you can head there on a match day, you’ll find a loud and lively atmosphere!

Kadikoy is often referred to as the Taksim of the Asian side, and that is because of its nightlife. This is a young place, with many students walking around on their days off. Kadife Street and Osmancik Streets are the places to go for the liveliest nightlife, with footballs, small cafes, clubs, and bars to enjoy. For shopping, you should head to Bahariye Avenue, which is lined with both recognisable brand named stores, and small markets, where you can haggle for your bargains.

Kadikoy Bazaar is a great place to check out souvenirs, and is open on Tuesdays and Fridays. This bazaar is the largest of its kind on the Asian side and sells fresh fruit, vegetables, clothes, bags, everything you can imagine!

Overall, Kadikoy is known for being cheaper than Taksim, and if it’s clothes you’re looking for, check out the small boutique stores, where you can find sweaters and tops for as little as 10 or 20TL!

If you want to get away from noise and somewhere quiet and chilled, jump on the tram to Moda, which is just a few minutes’ away from the centre of Kadikoy. Here you can enjoy the chilled out feel of the water stretching endlessly on, take some photographs, catch that amazing sunset, and have a glass of cay, or even head there early for breakfast.

Put on Your Walking Shoes

By far the best way to experience the vibrancy of Kadikoy is by foot. Simply put on your comfortable shoes and head out and explore. There are lot s of winding streets, so you can walk around and be a little adventurous. The main shopping streets all converge upon one another in a bottle neck, so you’re not likely to get lost, and you will certainly find more than enough coffee shops for a latte and a slice of cake if you need a rest!

Of an evening, you can easily find a spot for entertainment, with those aforementioned bars and clubs all vying for your custom. If you are staying over on the European side, do be aware that transport over the water stops around midnight, so you may need to bear that in mind, or pay for a taxi over the bridge.

Put simply however, Kadikoy is a great way to experience ‘real’ Istanbul, away from tourism and somewhere you will see day to day life. It’s also a great place to shop without huge price tags, and a vibrant spot for a night’s partying!