- Kadıköy for cinema, opera, and local food culture
- Bomonti for events, dining, and weekend market browsing
- Arnavutköy for seafood, breakfast, and Bosphorus nightlife
- Belgrad Forest for a calmer break from the city's pace
Cool Places in Istanbul on the Asian Side
Over the past few years, Kadıköy has become a popular spot for fancy bars, trendy cafes, and music venues. If you plan to cross by ferry, checking current routes on Şehir Hatları before you go can make the trip easier.
The Rexx Cinema is an old-school independent cinema located in Kadıköy. It is also used for the Istanbul Film Festival and is known for showing films in their original language. While you are visiting the city, it gives you the chance to enjoy a movie in a historical atmosphere.
Another memorable stop in Kadıköy is Süreyya Operası, the first musical theatre on the Asian side of Istanbul. The building is worth a visit for both architectural and cultural reasons, and the hall presents opera shows, art exhibitions, and festivities throughout the year.
A culinary walk in Kadıköy can also give you an idea of local life on the Asian side of Istanbul. For tasting delicious food from Turkish local culture, Çiya Restaurant is one of the names highlighted by the tour. Its founder, Musa Dağdeviren, wanted to create a comfortable and pleasing atmosphere for guests.
While you are on this side of the city, make time for the iconic Maiden's Tower. It stands on a small natural islet in the Bosphorus, and there is a restaurant where you can eat and drink with an unforgettable view. It is wise to arrange your transfer in advance, especially if you plan to go at night, when it can be crowded.
Have Fun Like a Local in Bomonti
Bomonti is one of those districts that has become a very popular neighborhood in recent years. With its cafes, offices, and restaurants, Bomontiada has grown into one of the city's popular places for a full day out. If your plans already include Taksim Square, adding Bomonti can give your itinerary a more local and contemporary feel.
Once a historic beer factory, Bomontiada later underwent a complete renovation and became a large complex with restaurants, an art gallery, and a concert hall. If you are coming for a concert or just for a drink, Kiva Meyhane is a strong pick for the best of the Anatolian kitchen, while The Populist suits a more modern dining experience.
Later in the day, the crowd in the outdoor area gives the place its energy. It hosts screenings, concerts, festivals, and other cultural activities, so it is smart to keep an eye on Bomontiada's social media pages before your trip in case an event fits your plans.
The wider Bomonti area offers more as well. The Feriköy Organic Bazaar takes place every Saturday and features organic products from different corners of Turkey. If you have room in your luggage, honey and spice can be a good buy there. Every Sunday, antique dealers gather in the same area with different kinds of antiques, and you might come across rare Turkish books or vinyl records. Either way, do not leave without trying some gözleme prepared by the Turkish ladies in the bazaar area.
Arnavutköy Offers Many Options for Visitors
Arnavutköy is a charming neighborhood on the European side. If you arrive by walking along the waterfront, the fishermen by the Bosphorus are an immediate clue to one of its biggest strengths: seafood. That same shoreline atmosphere is part of the appeal for travelers who love the views associated with a Bosphorus Cruise, even when they stay on land.
Arnavutköy is known for a number of excellent seafood restaurants, and Eftalya Balık is one of the better-known names with a rich menu. If you go there in the morning, you can also find several breakfast spots. Sütiş is a good choice for a highly traditional Turkish breakfast.
On Friday nights and weekends, Arnavutköy becomes one of the city's most happening nightlife spots, so it helps to plan your visit accordingly. There are many destinations to try, and you will often see people hanging out on the street and chatting while the music carries into the night. Alexandra can be preferred for its Bosphorus view. After a long evening, head to Bodrum Mantı, which stays open late and serves delicious mantı.
Head Out to Belgrad Forest
Life in Istanbul can be hectic in a metropolis this large, but Belgrad Forest remains an extremely popular getaway for locals. You can use metrobus or bus to get there, and checking routes on the official IETT site before you set out is helpful.
As the most famous green space in Istanbul, Belgrad Forest is used by picnickers, runners, and cyclists looking for fresh air. If your trip needs a quieter break from busy streets and crowded neighborhoods, this is one of the simplest ways to experience another side of the city.
