Kadikoy and Uskudar

Most of the visitors don't venture on the Asian side, focusing all their touristic efforts on the European side, but it's in the less-visited Asian side that you can discover the real local life of Istanbul. Two of the most renowned districts here are the neighbouring Kadikoy and Uskudar that still preserve their traditional character with timber Ottoman houses found along the route.
Kadikoy is a lively district filled with cafes, restaurants and shops, where traditional food markets (the most known is found along Guneslibahce Sokak) display their goods next to fancy designer shops and Islamic mosques mix well with Armenian and Catholic churches. Bahariye Caddesi is the main pedestrian street, crossed by the historical Kadikoy-Moda tram, ending its route in the neighbourhood with the same name. Moda is somehow considered to be a relatively upscale area, but you'll still spot plenty of local people playing backgammon or sipping a ‘cay’ after work. Kadikoy is alive till late night with its open air cafes and eateries always packed, but if you are looking for clubbing, then you might be a bit disappointed.

Along the seaside facing the Marmara Sea, there is a promenade and a well-maintained park where you can relax and feel reinvigorated in the cool sea air. The ferry connecting the European side with Kadikoy is the perfect way to spot the skyline of Sultanahmet district and to enjoy a memorable sunset.
Uskudar district lies on the Bosphorus Strait at the ferry landing right in front of Eminonu. Its pleasant seaside promenade with open views over the European side features historical mosques, Kız Kulesi, totally surrounded by the sea, and many restaurants and cafes where you can relish local delicacies.