Welcome to one of the most picturesque and cultural areas of Istanbul - Kadikoy! Located on the Asian side of the city, this area offers a unique experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in an authentic atmosphere of history and modernity. Occupying a coastal position on the Sea of Marmara, the district borders three others: Üsküdar, Ataşehir and Maltepe. The Bosphorus serves as a natural border separating Kadikoy from the European part of Istanbul, and at the same time as an artery connecting them, thanks to public sea transport - ferries, sea buses and boats.
The area is small, with a population of about 500 thousand inhabitants, very beautiful and developed, many note its unusualness, authenticity and at the same time “fashionability”, thanks to the presence of a special spirit of creativity on its streets and cultural diversity. Innovative startups, modern galleries and co-working spaces attract creatives and entrepreneurs. The streets here are lined with art galleries, cozy cafes and artisan workshops. Sunday markets and antique shops give the area a special charm, and in the evening local bars and restaurants fill the air with the aromas of traditional Turkish cuisine. This is also reflected in the architecture of the area: from stately Ottoman houses to narrow streets that simply invite you to stroll. Kadikoy is also famous for its parks and embankments, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the Sea of Marmara and the Bosphorus. Fenerbahçe and Caddebostan parks are wonderful places for walking and relaxing, and the embankments invite you to enjoy picturesque sunsets.
Historical heritage
Kadikoy has a rich history dating back thousands of years and is the oldest district in Istanbul. Researchers believe that the city owes its name to the first prosecutor (qadi) of Istanbul, to whom this territory was transferred to the department. In the past, it was a place where the Byzantine and Byzantine empires flourished. Historians have established that back in the 7th century BC. The Dorians founded the settlement of Chalcedon here.
Kadikoy County is of significant interest to Orthodox Christians due to the presence of several operating Orthodox churches on its territory. Of particular historical significance is the event held here in 451 AD. Fourth Ecumenical Council.
Although Kadikoy is a residential area of Istanbul, there are some attractions here too. We advise you to visit:
∨ Bahariye Street, where the historic tram runs, providing the opportunity to enjoy a pedestrian area with many shops and cafes
∨ Artisan Street, bringing together artists and craftsmen, offering unique works of art for purchase
∨ The famous bar street, which in the evening transforms into a lively and pulsating atmosphere of fun with many establishments and vibrant nightlife
∨ The oldest symbol of Raon is a statue of a bull, with a history of one and a half centuries
∨ Haydarpasa Station, the architecture of which was repeated by the five-star Alanya hotel of the same name
∨ Home stadium of the Fenerbahce team. Football fans are recommended to visit it, especially on match days, to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere of sports and ∨ Moda is a quarter in the south of the district, it is traditionally considered one of the main Istanbul areas for the rich. Here you will find a pleasant embankment for walking, a lovely park with jogging paths, exercise equipment and huge colorful stones that you can climb on and admire the Bosphorus for a long, long time. You can also visit the newly opened Moda Pier - this is a small charming building on an embankment protruding into the water. On the more trivial side, there is a fish market known throughout Kadikoy, expensive, like the Moda district itself, but atmospheric and with a good assortment.
∨ Gazkhane Museum is a former gasworks area converted into a museum and modern public space, located in the Acibadem quarter, about a 30-minute walk north of the Moda district. Here you will find a perfect lawn, cozy coffee shops, co-working spaces, workshops and a library. The visit is free and you can bring your pets.
∨ Fenerbahce and Caddebostan parks.
∨ And, of course, a beautiful embankment with a magnificent view of the sea.
Recommended cafes/restaurants in Kadikoy:
∨ Canli Nemnet Balik Galeresi – the best fish restaurant;
∨ Village - the best breakfasts in Kadikoy and a nice courtyard for smoking visitors;
∨ SoBe - here you can enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast Serpme kahvaltı with a huge variety of small plates of various food;
∨ Bop! Breakfast of Pan – a budget place with delicious breakfasts;
∨ Grao is a place often visited by the Russian-speaking public and, accordingly, staff who understand the Russian language. The cafe provides the opportunity to taste our usual cheesecakes and omelettes in a pleasantly relaxed atmosphere. There is also a mini store with well-selected books;
∨ 700 GRAM - European-style breakfasts - poached eggs, omelettes, fried eggs, etc. served on a croissant or freshly baked bread. The menu also includes their signature lightly salted salmon;
∨ Porrige & Pastry - a vegetarian cafe in the Moda district with healthy breakfasts, original desserts in glasses, delicious cereals with beautiful presentation and alternative plant-based milk for those who wish;
∨ Story - A coffee shop with a coffee roasting shop, where you can drink delicious coffee with a croissant and buy beans to take with you;
∨ Ali Usta - they serve very tasty ice cream here.
When you visit Kadikoy, you will immerse yourself in a unique mixture of tradition and modernity. Ancient buildings, the smell of freshly brewed coffee and picturesque views of the Bosphorus will make your visit unforgettable. This is a place where history intertwines with modernity, and cultural heritage comes to life in every corner of the area. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the atmosphere of Kadikoy, an area that never ceases to amaze and inspire its visitors!
