When it comes to choosing a neighborhood of Istanbul to base yourself, most visitors tend to totally overlook Kadikoy. This is a shame, as Kadikoy is a wonderful place with many aspects that are attractive to the potential visitor. I personally became aware of this whilst doing my own research for where to stay in Istanbul, and was immediately drawn to the area. Now, after having stayed there for over a week on my latest trip, I have put to together this Complete Guide to Kadikoy to show you, and others, what they can expect from this beautiful Istanbul neighborhood.
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Table of Contents
- Where is Kadikoy?
- Why to stay in Kadikoy
- Things to do in Kadikoy
- Where to eat in Kadikoy
- Daytrips from Kadikoy
- Where to stay in Kadikoy
- How to get around
- Summary
Where is Kadikoy?
Kadikoy is the most southern neighborhood of Istanbul, on the Asian side of the Bosphorus. It lies almost directly opposite the cultural center of the city, with the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia featuring prominently on the skyline.
The location of Kadikoy makes it the perfect place for visitors that want to access and experience the best that Istanbul has to offer, without putting up with the downsides of being in the “center” of it all. Kadikoy offers the best of both lives, and the easy option to move between the two.
Read on to find out why.
Why to stay in Kadikoy
There are many wonderful reasons to stay in Kadikoy. Location is right up there near the top of the list, and many of the other reasons have a lot to do with just that. And when it comes to picking somewhere to stay in a new city, there are two things everyone is looking for. Location and price.
Kadikoy, then, becomes a very, very attractive option.
Here are just a few of the reasons I chose Kadikoy to stay, and plan to return to again on my next visit.
- Kadikoy is located right across the Bosphorus from the cultural heart of the city.
- The major ferry terminal at Kadikoy is a part of its life blood. The neighborhood seemingly revolves around it, and riding the ferry from Kadikoy to all points of the city is a way of life.
- Kadikoy is “close” to Sabiha Gokcen International Airport, which can easily and cheaply be accessed by shuttle bus or Metro (train) link directly to the airport.
- There are wonderful markets, restaurants and cafes in Kadikoy, with a vibe that is unique and you will not find anywhere else in the city.
- Access to all parts of the city is easy, with the entire Asian side able to be reached by metro and bus, and the ferries running to everywhere you will want to visit on the European side.
Guide to Kadikoy tip – When looking into a place to stay in Kadikoy, look at somewhere central, but a short walk from the docks. Some of the best vibes in the neighborhood originate around the ferry and fishing communities. Plus, the views are great!
Things to do in Kadikoy
Kadikoy is not generally the center of everything in Istanbul. Mostly, you will choose to stay there as a base for your activities in the rest of the city. For that, it is perfect.
So here are a list of things you can do in and from Kadikoy that make it one of the best places to base yourself when visiting Istanbul.
- Shop around the local Kadikoy markets. There are amazing deals to be picked up anywhere around the area.
- Check out the famous Kadikoy Seafood markets.
- Take a stroll along a street lined with book stores. Perfect for any reader, just so long as you can read Turkish, of course!
- Take in the sunset from the docks while watching the fishermen haul in their final catch of the day.
- Stroll around the waterfront to neighboring Moda along the walking/cycle path.
- Take a bus to Uskudar and discover all the reasons that this area is so famous and popular.
- Head up to Camlika Hill for some of the best views in all of Istanbul.
- Take the Ferry across and around the Bosphorus to visit the rest of Istanbul, or just to enjoy one of the most amazing sunsets you will see.
- Visit Haydapasa Terminal, one of the most famous local landmarks. This is the old Train Terminal of Kadikoy, and is now a favorite location for architecture and history lovers.
Kadikoy is a place that kept us occupied for many days during our stay. There always seems to be something happening, and it is strange how the same place can seem so different each day you visit. In the end though, you will love being so local to the ferry, and heading off to visit the rest of Istanbul, and all of her incredible wonders.
Complete Guide to Kadikoy Tip – If you are not pressed for time, spend at least a couple of days exploring Kadikoy before heading off to the rest of Istanbul. Once we found our way around and places to eat, coffee shops etc, it was a lot cheaper to return “home” each afternoon and enjoy our local neighborhood in the evenings.
Where to eat in Kadikoy
Eating in Kadikoy is easy, depending upon how much you want to spend. But then, this is the problem that comes up nearly anywhere, I guess. In my Complete Guide to Kadikoy tips on where to eat though, I will be pointing out a few of the budget places to eat. The expensive places are everywhere, and NOT hard to find!
First, I will start at the docks. You will find some really great cheap food deals at the stores and carts along the dock areas. We found this perfect when we were catching the ferry every day across the Bosphorus. We were able to grab breakfast in the morning, and dinner on the way home in the evening. This is probably no revelation to the locals, but it took us a couple of days to figure out!
Then, up in Kadikoy itself, take a walk down some of the local streets. There are several places we found with great, cheap food. Below, I will list some of my favorite places to find a good budget meal, and link them with Google Maps locations.
So here are the Guide to Kadikoy tips on where to find a budget meal in Kadikoy!
- At the docks, you will find dozens of “bread carts” dispersed all along the docks and around the bus stops. They sell wonderful fresh breads of all shapes and sizes, perfect for a quick breakfast. All products are only 5 TL each, unless you get them with Nutella or other spreads.
- Also at the docks, you will find 5 or 6 Kebab places. They sell kebabs, pita’s and rolls loaded up with kebab fillings. Our favorite was the Chicken Pita for only 25 TL.
- Levant Pide and Borek Salon – This place makes beautiful pide for only 10 TL each. Locals swarm into the place and order up to 3 Pide each, so they are kept busy!
- Berke Doner – Makes wonderful cheap kebabs that are a foot long! We found this place just after filling up on Pide down the road, but still couldn’t pass up on a great deal.
- Isos Doner – Another place, but one that will come in handy in the busy part of the main shopping district. This is a place that is also very popular with the locals.
- Not a strictly budget eatery, Viyana Kahvesi makes the cut on the Guide to Kadikoy places to eat simply for its great coffee!
So that is the Complete Guide to Kadikoy list of best places to eat if you are on a budget! As already mentioned, if you are not strictly worried about saving money, there are many, many other places to entice you inside as well. Just stroll down ANY street.
FOR MORE tips on places to eat in Kadikoy, check out THIS article!
Daytrips from Kadikoy
When it comes to day trips from Kadikoy, you are probably going to be thinking trips into the rest of Istanbul. In a way, you would be right. There are many highly rated day tours and trips to be had doing just that. There are many others though, that are just as highly rated and get you OUT of Istanbul as well.
So let’s take a look at the Complete Guide to Kadikoy list of best day trips.
- Best of Istanbul in 1 Day – See all of the main attractions of Istanbul, including the Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar and Topkapi Palace. Learn everything there is to know including the history of all the sites from an experienced and knowledgeable guide. Click HERE to check it out.
- Istanbul – Full Day Small Group Highlights Tour – Very similar to the above tour, but done in a smaller and more intimidate group. Includes lunch in a great restaurant. Click HERE for more details.
- Gallipoli – Full Day Tour from Istanbul – A comprehensive 18 hour tour from Istanbul to one of the most famous battlefields of World War 1. Learn all the histories and visit the memorials for the fallen. Click HERE for more details.
- Princes Islands Full Day Tour – Take a cruise to the beautiful Princes Islands, where you will join walking tours to see the incredible summer houses, beaches and pinewood scenery. Click HERE to check it out.
- Troy – Full Day Tour from Istanbul – Explore the ancient city of Troy on a day trip from Istanbul. Learn all about the histories of Achilles, Hector and the other famous figures of the period. Click HERE for more.
- Istanbul Dinner Cruise and Entertainment with Private Table – Take a cruise on the Bosphorus between two continents, with belly Dancing, Folk Dancing and delicious Cuisine – Click HERE for more!
Where to stay in Kadikoy
Kadikoy is not the sort of place that is noted for its luxury accommodation. Having said that, there are some very nice hotels, and the mid range priced hotels is where it shines. With Kadikoy though, what you might give up in amenities, you more than make up for with location and surrounding facilities.
So let’s take a look at the best places to stay in the Kadikoy area, with my Complete Guide to Kadikoy places to stay!
Luxury (High Mid Range)
In an area where there is not too much to speak of in relation to Luxury accommodation, there are still a few places that guests love, and could easily come under that category. Let’s take a look at a couple of the best.
Moja City Hotel
If you are looking for a place to stay on the Asian side of Istanbul, then the Moja City Hotel in Kadikoy is a perfect choice. Located in a Prime spot close to the center and all public transport, you will really be wanting for nothing. Great Breakfasts, cleanliness and service makes the Moja City a favorite for many.
Panorama Suite
Another place with really great location close to the bus and ferry. The views are amazing, with sea views right across the Bosphorus. Hospitality is incredible, facilities great and the WIFI fast enough to please nearly everyone!
Casa Rosso Suites
Casa Rosso Suites are very easy to locate in the middle of downtown. Central to everything, with some of the best shopping in Kadikoy on the doorstep. Owners are very hospitable and helpful in all regards. Guests rave about the Jacuzzi and the general cleanliness in particular.
Mid Range
Mid Range Accommodation in Kadikoy is where the area really shines. There is a lot around, and you will surely be spoilt for choice. Needless to say, you can usually find a really nice place on a good deal, and still feel like you have won the lottery. Here are a few of the very best.
Yolo Hostel
This place is constantly rated as one of the best Hostels anyone has ever visited. Do yourself a favor and get along to check it out. Located in a local district that is a hidden gem of an area, you will feel right at home with the hospitality both inside and outside. The rooms are larger than you would expect, and the cleanliness amazing.
Belizia Hotel
This small boutique hotel is described as cozy, and is located within walking distance of everything. Staff and the owner are very friendly, and quick to respond to all, if any, issues. You are guaranteed to feel right at home in the Belizia Hotel!
Budget
As with anywhere, there is plenty of budget accommodations to be found in Kadikoy. There are also a few really nice places to choose from that are sure to please. Check these out!
Moda Hostel
From the dorm rooms to the family suites, you will be very comfortable in the Moda Hostel. It has a bar downstairs, and a beer garden that hosts live shows. Located in a great spot, guests love having a nice place to stay that is removed from the tourist traps on the European Side.
Golva Rooms
Clean and spacious with artistic touches. Central location, spotless rooms and walking distance to everywhere makes the Golva Rooms a very popular choice.
Looking for the best Budget accommodation? Hostelworld have you covered with all of the very best budget friendly accommodation around town. Check them out at THIS LINK.
How to get around
Getting around in Kadikoy is easy, just as it is in the rest of Istanbul. The key is IstanbulKart!
If you don’t know what IstanbulKart is, then here it is in a nutshell. Basically it’s a swipe on card that you preload with funds, and will get you onto any public transport around Istanbul. That includes Ferry, Bus, Metro, Tram, Funicular. Literally anything that comes under the banner of public transport!
So, to get around in Kadikoy, simply grab your own IstanbulKart. You can get them from most ferry ports or bus terminals at the Yellow and blue machines located around the area. Your card will cost 50 TL, and then you will simply need to load funds onto it, which can be done at the same machines.
If you can’t find any machines near to where you are, (but they are literally everywhere near public transport) then just pop into any local convenience stores. I found a few across the road from the Kadikoy docks that sold them. There is also an InstanbulKart office that you can visit at THIS location.
For more info on the IstanbulKart and how to use the machines, check out THIS article.
Once you have the IstanbulKart, you can get anywhere. By Ferry you can get all around Istanbul via the Bosphorus. The bus will take you all up and down the Asian side of the city, as well as locally around Kadikoy. The Metro will take you to the airport. The Marmaray will get you to Uskudar or even across to the European side.
Locally though, for moving around in Kadikoy, try the tram, buses, or just walk. Kadikoy is not that big, and we found it a real pleasure to walk around, with so much to see and do. Along the docks and waterfront area there are also great walkways that stretch right around to neighboring Moda, so put your shoes on and hit the pavement!
Summary
Kadikoy is an amazing place to base yourself when in Istanbul. It is one of my favorite places in the city, and I love starting and finishing the day crossing the Bosphorus on the ferry. I cannot recommend the area more, and it will continue to be my place of choice to stay whenever I visit in the future.
I hope you have enjoyed my Complete Guide to Kadikoy. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments.
Thank you for this! Our friend recommended this area. We like to stay in VRBO’s or hotels that are larger that possibly have laundry facilities and an additional bedroom. Any thoughts on that?
And.. well, you may have suggestions – we are thinking Cappadocia 3/4 days, Selcuk 4/5 days, Istanbul 4/5 days. We will rent a car in Selcuk to see Ephesus etc.
It just seems like there is so much to see you have to narrow it before you go!
Thanks in advance.
Hi Julie,
I already replied by email, but will reply here too. Your plan sounds great! Those amount of days should get you to most things to see and do in all locations. Istanbul is a place you could literally spend weeks! The first time I was there was for 7 days, and then at the end of a month in Turkey we tacked another 3 days on in Istanbul and STILL found things to do.
We loved Kadikoy. It’s not as flashy as other areas, but so peaceful, with many incredible restaurants and shops. Plus, I love the ferries and its really easy to get to Sultanahmet via the Marmaray.
Turkey is a place that has SO MANY wonderful cities that you will not see them all in one trip. So you have done the right thing by picking three beautiful places, and make the most of your time to enjoy them as much as you can.
I don’t generally use VRBO, and stick to Air BNB and Booking.com. My preference is similar though, and enjoy the comfort of a home around me (hence the Air BNB option) and having laundry facilities and kitchen etc. You can find plenty around Kadikoy, depending on what you want to spend. I found Cappadocia to be more hotel type accommodation, but many of them specialize in Suites, so that might suit you better.
Let me know how you go!
J