Are there differences between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul? Despite being the same city, the Bosphorus Strait serves as a border between one side and the other, and not only geographically: the atmosphere and attractions are different, interesting from different points of view. We talk about this in the following lines, and you can confirm it (or not) during your trip with us, as we can design a custom program.
Two different histories
First of all, it should be remembered that the evolution of the city is not the same in the European and Asian parts. It can be said that the foundational core and the historical base of the city is on the European side. Here, specifically on the Ancient Peninsula, was located the Greek Byzantium and the Roman and Byzantine Constantinople, as well as colonies of foreign merchants such as the Genoese in the Beyoglu district.
In contrast, the Asian side of present-day Istanbul had a different development, with two distinct enclaves: Chrysopolis, of Greek foundation prior to Byzantium, and Chalcedon. The first corresponds to the current district of Uskudar, and the second to that of Kadikoy, in both cases conquered by the Ottomans before the final fall of Constantinople (1453).
The main monuments are on the European side
One of the differences between European Istanbul and Asian Istanbul is that the former is home to the main monuments and, therefore, tourist attractions. This is the case of Sultanahmet Square, the Hagia Sophia Mosque, the Blue Mosque, or the Spice Bazaar. And on the other side of the Golden Horn (also on the European side), the Tower of Galata or the area of İstiklal Caddesi. In addition, the city’s major museums are also located here, such as the Archaeological Museums or the Istanbul Modern.
That does not mean that the Asian side lacks monuments. In fact, its appeal lies in the fact that they are less visited by tourists, but their beauty is comparable in many cases, such as the Semsi Ahmed Pasa Mosque.
Popular and modern life on the Asian side
Although the European side of Istanbul has icons of the modern city, such as the Galataport cruise port, it can be said that the pulse of daily life is more popular on the Asian side, with markets where tourists are clearly a minority, such as the Kadikoy Food Market. In addition, due to greater land availability, other iconic projects of modern Istanbul have been undertaken on the Asian side, such as the Çamlıca communications tower, whose undulating lines are visible from many points in the city and represent the avant-garde equivalent of the medieval Galata Tower.
The journey between both sides, another attraction
Despite these differences between European Istanbul and Asian Istanbul, it is difficult to choose one or the other. In fact, it is worth getting to know both. And if you opt for this idea, you will see that the journey between both shores is equally interesting, especially if you decide to do it by taking a cruise on the Bosphorus, which offers unique views of both parts. In addition, another point of interest is located in the waters of the Bosphorus: the Maiden’s Tower, closer to the Asian shore, but only accessible by boat.
As you can see, both the European and Asian sides have a lot to offer. In short-term packages, the program focuses on the attractions of European Istanbul, as it is the most monumental area. But if you have enough time, you can reserve part of your time to explore the most amazing places on the Asian side, which will not leave you indifferent.
