Discover Kadikoy District in Istanbul
Discover Kadikoy District in Istanbul
Many people are obsessed with Kadikoy neighbourhood in Istanbul. Flock to the city’s once-sleepy Asian side and its lively cafes, galleries, bars, shops, and restaurants. For visitors staying near the historic sights of Sultanahmet, a scenic ferry ride across continents is all it takes to join them. The central parts of the Kadiköy district are the hub of all this activity with densely packed markets, relaxed tree-lined streets, and eye-catching walls filled with the large-scale works by Mural Istanbul artists as well as politically tinged graffiti. Here’s where to start your explorations of Istanbul’s "other side".
Kadikoy Bazaar
Artsy, eclectic Istanbullus flock to the city’s once-sleepy Asian side and its lively cafes, galleries, bars, shops, and restaurants. For visitors staying near the historic sights of Sultanahmet, a scenic ferry ride across continents is all it takes to join them. The central parts of the Kadiköy district are the hub of all this activity with densely packed markets, relaxed tree-lined streets, and eye-catching walls filled with the large-scale works by Mural Istanbul artists as well as politically tinged graffiti. Here’s where to start your explorations of Istanbul’s "other side".
Moda Beach
The Moda area might be known for its modern architecture, creative residents and coffee shops, but nothing beats its views overlooking the Sea of Marmara and Boshporus. Experience a sunset from above in the open-air tea garden Moda Çay Bahçesi, where tea, coffee and light snacks cost next to nothing. If you are more in the mood for a beer, go down to the shore and sit on the stones, a classically Kadiköy thing to do.
The Tramway
Compared to Istanbul’s European side, Kadiköy has a more relaxed vibe, which can be experienced on the Kadiköy-Moda Nostaljik Tramway. The red wagon might look like a museum artefact, but the tram line still runs and is widely used as everyday transportation. Get on the tram by the ferries, and let it take you along Bahariye Caddesi and through the colourful architecture of Moda. The line only lasts 10 stops in a 2.6km (1.6mi) circular loop, perfect for getting a sense of the scenery.
Opera in Kadikoy
Residents in Kadiköy are known to take pride in their district and fight for their landmarks, and the Süreyya Opera House is a good example. Dating back to 1927, it remained incomplete and never staged an opera. Instead, it operated as a movie theatre for decades and slowly fell into decay – until 80 years later when the Kadiköy Municipality launched a massive restoration. Süreyya Opera House finally reopened in 2007 and is now the best place to catch an opera, ballet or classical concert on Istanbul’s Anatolian side.
Night Life in Kadikoy
As tourists and young Istanbulites are opening their eyes to the city’s Anatolian side, new night-time venues are constantly springing up. An old classic, however, is Arkaoda, and many believe that it had a central role in transforming Kadiköy into one of Istanbul’s hippest neighbourhoods.
This iconic bar, music and arts centre has been welcoming underground musicians and the people who like to listen to them since 1999. Kick back with a beer in the large back garden, or dance the night away to live shows on the upper floor. Arkaoda puts on a packed programme, where most events are free. Discover Kadikoy today, one of the most famous districts next to Taksim.
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