Things to Do in Kad?köy, Istanbul

Catch an opera, explore antique vendors, party to underground melodies, or watch the sunset over the Bosphorus at Kadiköy, on Istanbul's Asian side.

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Independent art spaces, music venues, and colourful paintings abound in Kadiköy, making it a popular hotspot on Istanbul's Anatolian side. If you're planning on taking a boat over the Bosphorus, here are a few things to consider.

Take a ride on the historic tramway.

Kadiköy has a more relaxed mood than Istanbul's European side, which can be experienced on the Kadiköy-Moda Nostaljik Tramway. The red wagons may seem to be a historical artifact, yet the tram line is still active and widely used for daily transportation. Take the tram from the docks and ride down Bahariye Caddesi and through Moda's colourful architecture. The line has only 10 stations in a 2.6km (1.6mi) circle, which is ideal for getting a feel for the area.

Visit a renowned Turkish coffee shop.

The narrow streets of central Kadiköy are alive with activity, yet one spot manages to stay completely still. Since 1923, Fazl Bey's Turkish Coffee has been a local institution, a modest oasis known for roasting and grinding its beans. The coffee business continues to attract customers and was recently awarded the third-best in the country. Try a traditional Turkish coffee and listen to the beautiful Turkish music playing in the background.

Take a workshop at communal art spaces.

Many paintings decorate the concrete walls of Kadiköy. This area is overflowing with creativity, and the numerous creative communities are a terrific chance to get a closer look. You may connect with local artists, purchase inexpensive artwork, and participate in events or lessons here. Explore Circuit Istanbul's yoga and sketching courses, as well as Halka Sanat Projesi's exhibitions, artist meetings, and workshops. Also, pay a visit to Arthere, a non-profit organisation founded by a Syrian photographer to assist other citizens in creating and presenting art. It also features a small café and hosts films and events.

Go antique shopping for old books, records and jewellery.

The antique street, also known as Tellalzade Sokak, is called for the many sellers that sell vintage antiques. This cobblestone path has everything from vintage telescopes, record players, and gas lamps to used books, pictures, and silver jewellery.

Watch a show at the Süreyya Opera House.

Residents of Kadiköy are known for taking pride in their area and fighting protects landmarks, such as the Süreyya Opera House. It was built in 1927 but remained incomplete and never hosted an opera. Instead, it was used as a cinema theatre for decades before decaying — until the Kadiköy Municipality launched a massive renovation 80 years later. The Süreyya Opera House reopened in 2007 and is presently the most excellent site in Istanbul's Anatolian side to see opera, ballet, or classical music.

Dance the night away at Arkaoda

New nightlife venues are continuously springing up as visitors and young Istanbulites become more aware of the city's Anatolian side. On the other hand, Arkadia is an ancient classic that many feel played a key part in changing Kadiköy into one of Istanbul's hippest neighbourhoods.

Since 1999, this legendary pub, music and arts centre has welcomed underground musicians and those who like listening to them. Relax in the large backyard with a beer or dance the night away to live music on the upper floor. Arkadia has a packed schedule, with the bulk of activities being free.

Pro tip: Arkaoda is located on Kadife Sokak, also known as Barlar Sokak (bar street), home to several other famous venues. For a dark and intimate environment, head to Karga Bar, or check out BNA, which features DJs, talks, movies, and performances.

Try Turkey's best hangover cure at a pickle store.

When you go inside Güne?li Bahçe Sokak, the smells of spices, dried fruit, and freshly caught fish flood your eyes. The Armenian, Greek, and Albanian heritage of the Surp Takavor area are represented in this beautiful and bustling little passage located behind the Surp Takavor Church. Find Me?hur Ozcan Tur?u, a pickle business that has been around since 1935. Try to figure out what's inside the store's hundreds of colourful jars, and the shopkeepers will help you find the suitable jar of pickles.

Catch the views with a few beers

Nothing beats the views of the Sea of Marmara from the Moda district, which is known for its modern architecture, artistic residents, and coffee shops. In the open-air tea garden of Moda Cay Bahçesi, where tea, coffee, and light snacks are inexpensive, watch the sunset above. If you want to drink, head down on the beach and sit on the stones, a famous Kadiköy activity.

Rani Sharma is a famous writer who has written many articles on turkey travel, attractions, food and turkey e visa applications.

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