About this experience
When the European side of Istanbul has been fully explored, it's time to discover the other side of the capital - the Asian side! The hospitable, almost non-touristic Kadikoy is much more interesting to explore on a friendly quest walk. You will stroll through antique and artisanal streets, visit the favorite local establishments, and inhale the scents of the eastern bazaar. You will hear a story about the Turkish Pushkin and see the Sea of Marmara from the best angle.
What to expect
History, architecture and religious constructions
The quest walk will start at the Kadikoy pier, which offers a wonderful view of the peninsula. Near the Haydarpasa railway station, you will learn why its architecture is so noticeably different from the surrounding buildings. And a little later, you will admire the magnificent facade of the Suray opera theater. Along the way, we will talk about the history of the ancient city of Chalcedon, which eventually turned into one of the districts of vast Istanbul. We will also touch upon the spiritual side of the city - at the Orthodox churches of St. Trinity and St. Euphemia, where the Fourth Ecumenical Council took place, I will tell you how it happened that there are more churches than mosques in Kadikoy.
Antique and artisanal streets
Passing through quiet alleys with dusty antiques and cafes with a few tables, you will reach the most famous symbol of the area - the bull statue. You will visit the street of artisans and the tea garden at the Nazim Hikmet Cultural Center, where in the shade of trees I will tell you about the Turkish Pushkin - a writer and poet whose personality is inseparably linked with Moscow.
Bohemian Moda district
In this atmospheric place, where there is no hustle and bustle, no tourist crowds and intrusive sellers, and local residents stroll leisurely, chat, and enjoy life, you will discover a completely different Istanbul - lively and authentic. You will hear an interesting story about Ahmet Pasha's mansion, the oldest tavern (meyhane), and an unusual place in its basement. You will enjoy views of the Sea of Marmara, see the famous historical retro tram, on which, if desired, you can take a ride. And visit a stylized cafe created by a Turkish fan of the American TV series 'Breaking Bad', where you can immerse yourself in the image of a chemist-experimenter and take interesting photos.
Flavors and aromas of Asian Istanbul
The path will lead you through a real bustling eastern bazaar, where locals come for the freshest fish, cheeses, and olives. Here you will inhale the full range of aromas and, if desired, sample traditional products. You have probably tried classic Turkish coffee - but we will offer you Ottoman coffee, the recipe of which was created in the Sultan's palace. And at the end of the walk, in a tried and tested establishment, you will taste delicious dishes of the national cuisine and appreciate the local dessert - no, it won't be baklava or a classic sweet treat: we are for new knowledge, new impressions, and new flavors!
Organizational details
- I or my colleague Olesia will guide you on the tour
- The walk is entirely on foot
- No additional expenses, other than personal expenses in cafes, are provided
