Istanbul/Kadikoy

Introduction

Kadikoy is the commercial centre of the Asian side suburbs. While most tourists spent very little time in the Asian side of Istanbul, those that do are aptly rewarded. Kadikoy has less touts, less tour buses and a little less petty crime than its big sister suburbs on the European side.

The ferry crossing to Kadikoy - from Europe to Asia - is a journey you will never forget. The stunning skyline of Haghia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and the Blue Mosque, backlit from the golden glow of sunset with a thousand seagulls chasing scraps of bread thrown from the ferry, is truly a wonderful sight.

Sights and Activities

The fish market area of Kadikoy is alive with the throng of fresh market stalls and is constantly a busy place.

At the top of the hill across from the ferry terminal is the Kadikoy Bull - a statue of a bull which serves as a meeting place for locals and tourists alike.

Keep your eyes open around the fish market area for the Kadikoy Goose, which is owned by one of the local fish merchants. His job is to keep the cats away from the fresh produce.

Getting There

Whether you arrive by bus or ferry, you will disembark a short 5 minute walk from the centre of the action in Kadikoy. Both the main (Eminonu – Kadikoy) ferry terminal and the bus / minibus terminal are collocated adjacent to the main traffic intersection on Kadikoy.

By Train

Haydarpasa train station is the main station servicing all of the destinations east and south of Istanbul (Domestic and International). This station is located close to Kadikoy on the Asian side of the river.

By Bus

The main Kadikoy bus station is located adjacent to the main ferry terminal at the main intersection of the commercial centre of Kadikoy. Crossing the road you will find the heart of Kadikoy, filled with cheap shopping, cheap eats and the constant buzz of pedestrian traffic.

By Ferry

Probably the best way to get to Kadikoy is by ferry. This runs from Eminou on the European side and costs 1.30 YTL. The most beautiful time to catch it is at sunset.

Getting Around

By Public Transport

Kdikoy is a public transport dream. Though confusing and often a little haphazard, there are plenty of options for public transport in Kadikoy. The Ferry terminal is adjacent to the Bus and Minibus terminal.

Drink

Expats, travellers and locals alike all stumble across Bar Street eventually. Located uphill from the fish market area in Kadikoy, Bar Street is lined with expensive lounge, jazz, rock and pop bars catering to all tastes.

Keep Connected

Internet

There are no shortage of internet cafés in Kadikoy. Generally they are cheap and very well organised.
There are also countless free wireless hotspots around town. Most coffee shops and Nargile (waterpipe) bars provide free wireless to customers.

Phone

See also International Telephone Calls

Phone cards are available in most kiosk booths throughout Kadikoy and are surprisingly good value.

Post

PTT is the national post service. Services are generally moderately fast but quite reliable. Sending a standard letter or postcard costs €0.65 within Turkey and €0.80 (letters) or €0.85 (postcards) internationally. There is an extended price list on the PTT website. For sending packages one might also use international companies such as DHL and UPS and local companies such as Yurtici Kargo. Post offices bear the distinctive yellow PTT sign and are generally open between 9:00am to 12:00 noon and 1:30pm to 5:00pm from Monday to Friday.