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Grand Asian Side of Istanbul Tour
Explore the Authentic Rhythm of Istanbul
Step away from the crowds and into the authentic rhythm of the city across the Bosphorus. This curated journey takes you through the magnificent summer residences of Ottoman royalty and the colorful, multicultural streets of historic neighborhoods. You will experience panoramic views from the city’s highest hills and taste the vibrant daily life in renowned local food markets. Conclude your day with a deep appreciation for the serene beauty of the Asian continent.
Per Person (Guide and Vehicle Included)
375€
Tour Highlights
- Spend a full day on the Asian side — no Old City crowds
- Visit Beylerbeyi Palace, the summer residence of the Ottoman sultans
- See both continents from Çamlıca Hill, the highest point in Istanbul
- Walk the colourful streets of Kuzguncuk, a village inside the city
- Photograph the Maiden's Tower from the Üsküdar waterfront
- Eat your way through the Kadıköy food market with a local guide
ITINERARY
What You'll Experience
The summer residence of the Ottoman sultans, built in 1865 directly under the Bosphorus Bridge. Smaller and quieter than Dolmabahçe, with the same imperial hand — your guide walks you through the reception halls and the seaside gardens. Closed on Mondays.
The largest mosque in Turkey, completed in 2019 with six minarets and room for 63,000 worshippers. From Çamlıca Hill beside it, the whole city spreads out — the Bosphorus, the Old City peninsula and the Marmara Sea in one view.
A neighbourhood that kept its village shape: wooden houses, a synagogue, a church and a mosque on the same street. Lunch at a local restaurant here, then time to walk İcadiye Street and the Bosphorus-facing gardens.
The oldest residential district on the Asian side, with the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque by Sinan and the quay that faces the Maiden's Tower. The tower sits on its own islet 200 metres offshore — the best photographs are from the Salacak waterfront.
The market district that locals actually shop in: cheese sellers, picklers, fishmongers and baklava makers in a few connected streets. Your guide buys as you walk, so the tasting is part of the route rather than a stop.
Hotel drop-off: 17:45
Tour Overview
Roughly a third of Istanbul lives on the Asian side, and almost no visitor sees it. The result is a full day of the same history and the same food without the queues, the cruise crowds or the carpet shops of Sultanahmet.
The route runs from an imperial palace to a neighbourhood food market, which is the range this side of the city actually has: Beylerbeyi and Çamlıca for the Ottoman and the modern, Kuzguncuk and Kadıköy for how people live now.
The tour suits repeat visitors who have done the Old City, residents who want to know their own city better, and food-focused travellers. It is not a substitute for the Old City tour — it is the second day.
Good to Know
- Beylerbeyi Palace is closed on Mondays — the route runs in reverse order on that day
- Çamlıca Mosque is an active place of worship: shoulders and knees covered, headscarves provided free
- Walking distance is approximately 3 km, with some steep streets in Kuzguncuk and Kadıköy
- The food market visit includes tastings; tell us about allergies or dietary restrictions at booking
- The Bosphorus crossing is by private vehicle over the bridge, not by ferry
- Comfortable shoes are recommended; the Kadıköy market streets are narrow and uneven
What's Included
- Licensed English-speaking guide for the full day
- Private air-conditioned vehicle and driver
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in central Istanbul
- Beylerbeyi Palace entrance ticket
- Food tastings at the Kadıköy market
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure
What's Not Included
- Lunch at Kuzguncuk (approximately €20 per person)
- Drinks and additional food beyond the included tastings
- Gratuities for your guide and driver
- Transport from hotels outside central Istanbul
When To Travel
March to June and September to November are the most comfortable months for this route, at 15–25°C, because much of the day is outdoors — Çamlıca Hill, the Üsküdar quay and the market streets. July and August reach 32°C on the Asian side, which is a degree or two warmer than the waterfront; the route then adds a longer indoor break at Beylerbeyi. Winter is quiet and cool at 6–12°C, and Kadıköy market is at its liveliest on Saturday mornings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do we cross to the Asian side?
By private vehicle over the Bosphorus Bridge, which takes about 20 minutes from central hotels. The crossing itself is part of the route — your guide points out the palaces and the Maiden's Tower as you pass.
Is Beylerbeyi Palace open every day?
No. It is closed on Mondays, and the route runs in reverse order on that day so the palace is still included when it reopens. We confirm the opening calendar when you book.
Is the food included?
Market tastings are included. Lunch at Kuzguncuk is paid separately, around 20 EUR per person, because the restaurant choice depends on your group — we book it in advance and you order from the menu.
Is this tour a good alternative to the Old City tour?
It is a complement, not a replacement. The Old City holds the Byzantine and Ottoman monuments; the Asian side holds the residential city, the food and the viewpoints. If you have two days in Istanbul, book them in that order.
Can we do this tour with children?
Yes. Çamlıca Hill and the Kadıköy market work well for families, and the vehicle handles the distance between stops. Children under 6 join free; child seats are available on request.
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