You’ve likely heard the familiar saying that Istanbul sits on two continents: Europe and Asia. If you’re wondering how to actually travel between those two sides and want clear, practical options for getting to the Asian side of Istanbul, you’re in the right place.
We live on the Asian side and have crossed between Europe and Asia thousands of times. In this guide you’ll find the main ways to reach Kadıköy and Üsküdar—two of the most visited neighborhoods on the Anatolian side.
Whether you want to sample Kadıköy’s food scene, stroll Üsküdar’s waterfront, or simply experience life on the Asian side, this article walks through six reliable transport choices: ferry, Marmaray (commuter rail), metro connections, combined metro + Marmaray, car/taxi, and guided tours. By the end you should have a clear plan for your visit.
We recommend visiting Kadıköy first if it’s your initial trip to the Asian side—there’s more to do there—then head to Üsküdar if you have extra time.
Fact-checked and updated in February 2026.
Fun Facts About Istanbul’s Asian Side
The Asian side is commonly called Anadolu Yakası, which literally means the Anatolian Side. Anatolia is the historical name for much of modern Türkiye and is used interchangeably when referring to the Asian side of Istanbul.
Roughly one third of Istanbul’s population (about 35%) lives on the Asian side.
You don’t need a special visa to visit Istanbul’s Asian side if you’re already in the city.
Here’s a map to help you visualize the Asian side:
Why Visit Istanbul’s Asian Side?
Less crowded — The Asian side offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared with the heavily touristed European neighborhoods.
Local life — You’ll see authentic daily life, lively markets, and neighborhoods where locals spend time.
Nature + city — Parks, seaside promenades, and bustling streets combine nicely on this side of the city.
Charming neighborhoods — Explore areas like Kadıköy, Moda, Kuzguncuk, and Üsküdar for different vibes and attractions.
Great food — The Asian side is known for excellent local restaurants, markets, and street food.
Scenic Bosphorus views — Caddebostan, Moda, and Üsküdar offer beautiful waterfront panoramas of the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara.
Now, the fun part—how to actually get there.
Most Scenic Option: Public Ferry
Taking a public ferry across the Bosphorus is a classic Istanbul experience. Ferries are affordable, frequent, and offer excellent skyline views. Şehir Hatları (City Lines) runs many of the conventional routes, and you can pay with an IstanbulKart.
From Sultanahmet (Old Town)
The most popular crossing is Eminönü to Kadıköy, which departs frequently—often every 15 minutes—and takes roughly 20–25 minutes. There’s also a direct Eminönü to Üsküdar ferry if you prefer Üsküdar’s waterfront and the Maiden’s Tower viewpoint.
From Beyoğlu
From Beyoğlu (Galata, Istiklal Avenue, Taksim) walk down to Karaköy and catch the Karaköy–Kadıköy ferry. There’s also a Karaköy–Üsküdar route with fewer departures.
From Beşiktaş
Beşiktaş ferries run frequently to Kadıköy (about every 30 minutes) and take around 25 minutes. A separate operator runs the Beşiktaş–Üsküdar route with similar frequency—both accept IstanbulKart.
Quickest Option: Marmaray (Undersea Commuter Rail)
Marmaray is the fast commuter rail that links Europe and Asia via an undersea tunnel. It runs along a long line from Halkalı to Gebze, but short rides between central stations are quick and convenient.
To cross from the Old City, board at Sirkeci and exit at Üsküdar for the Asian side. For Kadıköy, get off at Ayrılık Çeşmesi or Söğütlüçeşme depending on your destination. You’ll need an IstanbulKart to pay for Marmaray rides. Typical operating hours run roughly from early morning until late evening, with extended weekend service.
Combine Metro + Marmaray
If you’re further inland—Taksim or Şişli—take the metro to a Marmaray transfer point. For example, take the M2 line to Yenikapı and transfer to Marmaray to continue across the Bosphorus.
By Car or Taxi: Bridges or the Avrasya Tunnel
Driving or taking a taxi is possible but generally not recommended for this short crossing. Taxi scams and unexpected tunnel or bridge tolls are common complaints. Many drivers use the Eurasia Tunnel (Avrasya Tüneli) to save time but may try to charge you extra for tunnel fees or make longer detours that increase the fare.
If you must use a taxi—such as missing the last ferry or train—agree on the route and ask the driver to use the meter. Be aware that there are three Bosphorus bridges and varying tolls depending on the route.
Stress-Free Option: Guided Day Tour
If navigating public transport makes you uncomfortable, a guided tour provides pick-up, transfers, and a local guide. Food tours that combine European-side breakfast and a ferry crossing to Kadıköy are popular, as are full-day tours covering Üsküdar, Kadıköy, and Moda with lunch included.
Guided tours are a good choice if you want local insights, a fixed itinerary, and hassle-free logistics.
BONUS: Long Bosphorus Cruise
If you prefer a leisurely boat experience, the Long Bosphorus Tour runs from Eminönü and sails up the Bosphorus to Anadolu Kavağı with time to explore the seaside village and Yoros Castle, then returns in the afternoon. This is a scenic option that includes both coasts and many waterfront sights.
Where to Go on Istanbul’s Asian Side
Once you arrive, here are some top neighborhoods and attractions to explore:
Kadıköy — The island’s liveliest Asian neighborhood: bustling markets, street art, Bahariye Caddesi, the Kadıköy Çarşısı, historic tram rides, and many cafes and restaurants.
Üsküdar — A picturesque waterfront district with classic Bosphorus views, mosques, and the Maiden’s Tower visible from shore.
Kuzguncuk — A charming village-like neighborhood on the Bosphorus with colorful wooden houses, narrow lanes, and a relaxed old-Istanbul feel.
Beylerbeyi Palace — A quieter, elegant Ottoman summer palace with ornate interiors and gardens, great if you prefer fewer crowds than the main European palaces.
Caddebostan & Bağdat Caddesi — Upscale shopping and waterfront parks; Caddebostan has beaches and picnic spots while Bağdat Caddesi is a long, stylish avenue of shops and restaurants.
These areas each have a distinct character and are simple to reach by ferry or Marmaray. Whether you want food, history, seaside walks, or local culture, the Asian side offers a refreshing complement to Istanbul’s European attractions.
Planning a Trip to Türkiye? Check out our other posts!