Exploring the Asian Side of Istanbul: My Honest Review

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to explore the Asian side of Istanbul like a local? On my recent trip to Istanbul, I was determined to do just that. As someone who’s never been to Asia (yet!), I couldn’t resist the chance to say I’d visited two continents in one trip. After researching, I came across the “Istanbul Asia Side Highlights in a Day“ tour on Airbnb Experiences. The glowing reviews and itinerary had me hooked!

This post is my honest review of the tour—and why the Asian side of Istanbul should absolutely be on your itinerary.

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Why You Should Explore the Asian Side of Istanbul

Most visitors stick to the popular sights on the European side of Istanbul—and I get it. The history, the views, the architecture!

But there’s a whole other vibe waiting on the Asian side. Kadıköy, Üsküdar, and Kuzguncuk are bursting with charm, delicious food, colorful streets, and local life. And the best way to see it? With a local guide who knows it inside out.

About the Tour: Discover the Hidden Side of Istanbul – A Local’s Journey

Our tour guide, Ahmet, was not only knowledgeable but a natural storyteller. The tour lasted around 4 hours, which was the perfect amount of time to soak in the sights and culture without feeling rushed.

Key Stops on the Tour

• Kadıköy: A lively neighborhood with amazing local eats and bustling streets.
• Üsküdar: Known for its peaceful vibe and beautiful Ottoman mosques.
• Kuzguncuk: A hidden gem with colorful homes and a deep-rooted Jewish history.

What’s included?

• Public transportation (ferries and local minibuses)
• Local snacks and drinks (yes, we ate a lot)
• A ferry ride across the Bosphorus

Meeting point: Eminönü, İstanbul Kitapçısı

Ending point: Üsküdar Ferry Terminal

Asian Side of Istanbul: Booking the Tour & Meeting Ahmet

Booking through Airbnb was a breeze. We picked a Friday morning slot, hoping for a quieter, more personal tour—and we got exactly that. Shortly after booking, Ahmet sent a warm welcome message and clear meeting instructions.

We met him at İstanbul Kitapçısı, right by the Eminönü ferry terminal. Thanks to the tram stop nearby, it was easy to find, and we felt instantly comfortable upon meeting Ahmet. He greeted us with fresh simit (Turkish bagels) and tea—already winning us over!

Highlights from the Day: Asian Side of Istanbul

Crossing Continents with Simit & Seagulls

We boarded the ferry to Kadıköy on a rainy morning, which meant fewer crowds. As we crossed the Bosphorus Strait, Ahmet shared stories about the Maiden’s Tower, pointing it out through the mist.

He then tossed pieces of simit into the sky, and within seconds, a swarm of seagulls swooped in—a moment that felt straight out of a movie.

Breakfast at PisiKöy

Our first foodie stop: a traditional Turkish breakfast at PisiKöy. We shared Gözleme, a warm flatbread filled with spinach (and traditionally cheese).

We skipped the cheese for my vegan friend, but it was still so flavorful, especially when paired with marmalade and more tea.

Wandering Kadıköy’s Streets

Kadıköy felt more relaxed and lived compared to the touristy parts of the city. Locals were opening shops, walking to work, and chatting in cafés.

It had a neighborhood charm that made me feel like I was actually in someone’s hometown, not just on vacation.

Street Food Heaven: Midye Dolma & Fresh Juice

Next, we tried midye dolma—mussels stuffed with spiced rice. I chose the spicy version and was instantly hooked. The flavors were out of this world and just so incredible. 

When I thought we couldn’t eat anymore, Ahmet brought us to Harun Usta, a juice vendor with a rainbow of fresh fruits. I went for fresh watermelon juice—so sweet and refreshing!

Off to Üsküdar in a Gypsy Van

After our snack break, we piled into a shared minibus (gypsy van style) and headed to Üsküdar. We visited two breathtaking mosques:

• Yeni Valide Mosque – built in honor of Sultan Ahmed III’s mother.
• Süleymaniye Mosque – a true masterpiece by architect Mimar Sinan.

Ahmet reminded us to be respectful as we visited these active places of worship, and I was truly moved by the quiet reverence of it all.

Colorful Kuzguncuk & Turkish Coffee Traditions

Our final stroll took us through Kuzguncuk, Istanbul’s first Jewish neighborhood. The colorful streets and peaceful vibe were picture-perfect. We stopped at a local café for Turkish coffee, and Ahmet shared some amazing cultural stories.

One standout: If a woman in Turkey didn’t want to marry her suitor, she’d serve him salty coffee—a gentle but firm way to decline the proposal. I loved how thoughtful that tradition was.

Ahmet didn’t drink coffee with us; at first, I was surprised. But then he explained that Turkish coffee is something you share only with close friends and family. It’s a ritual, not just a drink.

Fun Fact: The word  Kuzguncuk means “little raven” or “barred window of a prison door” in Turkish.

 

Asian Side of Istanbul: Final Views & Farewell

Our tour ended with stunning views of the Bosphorus. Ahmet even snapped a few pictures for us before walking us to the ferry.

He stayed behind to return to the mosque to pray, and we boarded the ferry back to the European side, already missing the calm and community feel of the Asian side of Istanbul.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

1000% YES.

This tour completely exceeded my expectations. From Ahmet’s genuine hospitality to the immersive experiences, delicious bites, and cultural insights, it was hands-down one of the best things we did in Istanbul.

It felt like spending the morning with a friend who was proud to show you his city.

Who This Tour is Perfect For

• First-time visitors to Istanbul
• Solo travelers looking for a deeper connection
• History and culture lovers
• Foodies and local flavor seekers
• Travelers who want to go beyond tourist attractions

If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul and want to truly understand both sides of this magical city, don’t skip the Asian side. This tour was the perfect way to do it.

Practical Tips for Visiting the Asian Side of Istanbul

Best Time to Take the Tour

To avoid the crowds, I recommend booking a weekday morning tour. That’s when I went, and it was much easier to enjoy the sights without feeling overwhelmed.

Tours are also available later in the day and on weekends, but expect more locals, tourists, and other groups out and about. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s just good to know!

🛒 Book the same morning tour I took here

What to Wear & Bring

You’ll do a lot of walking, so it’s essential to come prepared:

• Comfortable Walking Shoes – The streets of Istanbul are beautiful but uneven in places. I wore my favorite cushioned sneakers and was glad I did!
• Portable Charger – Your phone will need backup power to snap photos and videos and use Google Maps. The Anker Nano Power Bank was my go-to for the entire trip! 
• Scarf – If you want to enter any mosques on the tour, you’ll need to cover your head and shoulders. Bring a lightweight scarf that can double as a shawl.
• Respectful Clothing – It’s best to wear something modest. I wore a long dress and a jean jacket, which was perfect. For men, lightweight pants or longer shorts work great.
• Bring some cash – You might want to buy a snack or small souvenir along the way, and tipping your guide is a nice gesture if you enjoy the experience.

Related Posts: 

• The Ultimate Guide: Istanbul For First Time Visitors
• What to Pack For Istanbul: Ultimate Guide for First Time Visitors

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