We meet at the Eminönü pier, right next to the Spice Bazaar. Your guide introduces the day's route as we watch the ferries, seagulls and simit sellers (sesame bread rings) that bring this unique corner of Istanbul to life.
15 minWe cross the Bosphorus on the public ferry (vapur), the most authentic way to travel between continents. During the 20-minute crossing we enjoy panoramic views of the Istanbul skyline: the domes of Sultanahmet, Galata Tower and the minarets dotting the horizon. Your guide points out the landmarks as the Bosphorus breeze keeps us company.
Read more about Ferry across the Bosphorus to Asia 25 minWe land at Üsküdar, one of the oldest neighbourhoods on the Asian shore. We visit the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque (the work of Sinan, the empire's great architect), stroll through the local market where residents (not tourists) shop, and stop to admire the iconic Maiden's Tower (Kız Kulesi) on its islet in the Bosphorus. Your guide tells you the legend of the princess and the snake.
60 minWe walk to Kuzguncuk, a neighbourhood that looks like a postcard: wooden houses painted in pastel colours, vintage shops, the famous century-old plane tree and a unique religious coexistence where a synagogue, a church and a mosque share the same street. A regular set for Turkish TV series and films. A stop for photos and a Turkish tea in a charming café.
Read more about Kuzguncuk — The Neighbourhood of Turkish TV Series 60 minWe walk or take a dolmuş (shared minibus) to Kadıköy, the liveliest neighbourhood on the Asian side. Your guide recommends their favourite places: from balık ekmek (fish sandwich) at the market to çiğ köfte (spiced raw bulgur patties) from a street stall. Kadıköy is Istanbul's food paradise.
Read more about Free time for lunch in Kadıköy 60 minWe explore Kadıköy's covered market: fresh fish stalls, fruit, olives, Turkish cheeses and homemade delicacies. Then we head out into the streets to discover the street art that decorates the façades — Kadıköy is the epicentre of urban art in Istanbul. Vinyl record shops, independent bookshops and third-wave coffee shops complete the picture.
Read more about Kadıköy Market and Street Art 60 minWe walk to Moda, the most sought-after residential area of Kadıköy: tree-lined streets, Art Nouveau houses, Fenerbahçe Park and the seafront promenade with panoramic views of the European shore. A stop for a traditional Turkish ice cream and photos from the viewpoint.
45 minWe take the ferry back to Eminönü with views of the sunset over the Bosphorus (depending on the time and season). We say goodbye next to the Spice Bazaar. Your guide leaves you tips for the evening.
30 minEminönü pier (next to the Spice Bazaar)
It includes: Licensed English-speaking guide throughout the tour; Return ferry ticket across the Bosphorus; Turkish tea tasting; Guided visit to Üsküdar, Kuzguncuk and Kadıköy. Not included: Lunch (your guide will recommend local restaurants); Tips; Transport to the meeting point.
The tour starts at 09:30 and lasts about 7 hours. Meeting point: Eminönü pier (next to the Spice Bazaar).
This is a private tour: just you and your group with the guide (maximum 10 people), never shared with other tourists. That means the pace can be adapted and we can go deeper into the topics that interest you most.
Yes, subject to availability. We recommend booking at least 24–48 hours in advance to secure your date, but we can often arrange last-minute tours.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. The price is confirmed in a free, no-obligation quote before you book.
Of course. The guide adapts the pace and explanations for families. Young children get free or reduced entry at many sites in Türkiye; the age limit varies from one site to another.
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