Welcome to our Kadıkoy Istanbul travel guide! In this article, we dive into the vibrant Kadıköy district on Istanbul’s Anatolian side, spotlighting its highlights and hidden spots. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Kadıköy offers a range of different experiences. Here’s a curated list of must-visit places!
Table of Contents
Historical Places of Kadıköy
Kadıköy is like an open-air museum for history lovers.
Moda Pier
Moda Pier is one of the most well-known symbols of the region. The pier, which preserves its historical texture, has a unique view of the Marmara Sea.
Haydarpaşa Train Station
Haydarpaşa Train Station attracts attention with its impressive architecture from the Ottoman period.
Additionally, there are many historical churches and mosques in Kadıköy.
Surp Takavor Armenian Church
Surp Takavor Armenian Church is one of the important structures reflecting the religious diversity of the region.
Art and Culture in Kadıköy
Kadıköy offers a rich variety in the field of art and culture.
Yeldeğirmeni Art Center
Yeldeğirmeni Art Center is an important venue where modern artworks are exhibited.
Wall art
Wall art and murals on every corner of the streets of Kadıköy reflect the artistic spirit of the region.
Nature Places in Kadıköy
Kadıköy also offers many alternatives for nature lovers.
Yoğurtçu Park
Yoğurtçu Park is ideal for those who want to spend a quiet day with its green areas and walking paths.
Moda Sahil Yolu
Moda Coastal Road is a great route for bike tours and walks.
Fenerbahçe Park
The parks in Kadıköy provide playgrounds and picnic opportunities for families with children, and Fenerbahçe Park is an excellent choice for those looking for a peaceful walk by the sea.
Nightlife
Barlar Sokağı
Kadıköy is also quite colorful and diverse in terms of nightlife. Barlar Sokağı attracts attention with its live music performances and friendly atmosphere.
Shopping Guide in Kadıköy
Kadıköy offers endless options for shoppers.
Bağdat Caddesi
Bağdat Avenue is famous for its luxury stores, restaurants, and cafes. This street is a real paradise for shopaholics and gastronomy enthusiasts.
Akasya Mall
Akasya Mall stands out with its modern architecture and wide range of shopping options. The modern face of Kadıköy offers visitors both shopping and entertainment opportunities.
Bahariye Caddesi
The boutiques located on Bahariye Street offer many alternatives for fashion lovers.
Kadıköy Tuesday and Friday Market
Kadıköy Tuesday Market attracts visitors with its affordable products and colorful atmosphere.
Second-hand stores and antique shops
Second-hand stores and antique shops are ideal places for those who love to explore. The shopping spots in Kadıköy appeal to every budget and taste.
Transportation and Accommodation in Kadıköy
Transportation
Kadıköy is located in a very central location in terms of transportation. You can easily reach other parts of Istanbul thanks to Marmaray, metro, and ferry services.
Accommodation
Accommodation options offer alternatives suitable for every budget. There is a wide range of accommodation options from luxury hotels to boutique hotels. Kadıköy’s central location and ease of transportation are the main reasons why it is preferred in terms of accommodation.
Places to Take Photos in Kadıköy
Kadıköy offers many attractive places for photography enthusiasts.
Moda Beach
Moda Beach is famous for its sunset views and provides a great background for photography enthusiasts.
Haydarpaşa Train Station
The impressive architecture of Haydarpaşa Train Station adds an aesthetic touch to the frames.
Colorful Wall Art
The colorful murals and graffiti on the streets of Kadıköy are also ideal spots for creative photography projects. The graffiti in Yeldeğirmeni Neighborhood in particular is a center of attraction for art lovers.
Places to Visit with Children in Kadıköy
Kadıköy also offers many fun activities for families with children.
Istanbul Toy Museum
Toy’s Museum attracts children’s attention with its educational and entertaining activities.
Özgürlük Park
Özgürlük Park is a place preferred by families with its large playgrounds and picnic areas.
Barış Manço House Museum
Barış Manço House allows children to get to know Barış Manço, who was their favorite artist in the past.
Theaters and cinemas
In addition, theaters and cinemas in Kadıköy offer screenings for children. These places are ideal for spending a pleasant day with children.
Hidden Gems in Kadıköy
Kadıköy also attracts attention with its hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Caddebostan Beach
Caddebostan City Beach is popular for swimming and sunset views, with sun loungers .
Gardens behind Yoğurtçu Park
The hidden gardens located behind Yoğurtçu Park are an ideal escape for those who want to be alone with nature.
These hidden places are just a few of the beauties of Kadıköy waiting to be discovered.
Architectural Tours in Kadıköy
Kadıköy offers various tour opportunities for architecture enthusiasts. Historical Moda houses exhibit beautiful examples of Ottoman and Republic-era architecture. In addition, modern buildings and skyscrapers in Kadıköy are among the indispensable stops for architectural tours. These tours allow participants to discover the region’s architectural richness. You can arrange it here.
Bicycle Tours in Kadıköy
Kadıköy is an ideal area for bicycle tours. The bicycle path from Moda Beach extends to Fenerbahçe and offers magnificent views. In addition, thanks to the bicycle rental points in Kadıköy, it is quite easy to explore the area by bicycle. Bicycle tours are a great option for both exercising and seeing the beauties of Kadıköy up close.
Day Trips in Kadıköy
Kadıköy also attracts attention with its surrounding day trip opportunities. The islands can be reached with a short ferry ride and are an ideal destination for day vacations.
Polonezköy
Polonezköy, located nearby, is a popular getaway for those who want to spend a day in touch with nature. You can easily reach these nearby holiday spots starting from Kadıköy and have a pleasant day.
Best Breakfast Places in Kadıköy
Çay Tarlası
If you’re craving muhlama (a traditional Black Sea dish), Çay Tarlası is the top recommendation. Pair it with koloti cheese menemen and enjoy the fresh tea served alongside. It’s a budget-friendly spot that brings a taste of the Black Sea to Kadıköy.
Küff Yeldeğirmeni
Located in the trendy Yeldeğirmeni neighborhood, Küff offers an alternative to Moda’s breakfast spots. With a mix of modern and traditional options, it’s a great way to explore a different side of Kadıköy while enjoying a hearty meal.
Pattis
For fans of eggs benedict and visually stunning plates, Pattis in Hasırcıbaşı is a great choice. With vegetarian and healthy options, it’s a perfect spot for both a classic and modern breakfast experience.
Thales Kadıköy
A nostalgic favorite, Thales has been a beloved breakfast destination for locals and students alike. Their breakfast spread is both affordable and filling, and the spacious seating ensures you’ll find a spot even during busy hours.
Best Coffee Shops in Kadıköy
180 Coffee Bakery
This charming café in Moda is a longtime favorite, offering a peaceful ambiance perfect for working or relaxing. Their tiramisu and cheesecake in jars are highly recommended, along with their expertly brewed coffee.
Fahriye Cafe
A nostalgic spot inspired by the character Fahriye Abla, this café boasts retro décor, curated bookshelves, and vintage furniture. Their latte and cookies are a must-try, though a bit more warmth from the staff would elevate the experience.
Walter’s Coffee Roastery
Famous for its Breaking Bad theme, Walter’s Coffee stands out with its unique concept and wide range of brewing methods. Spacious and fun, it’s a favorite among Kadıköy residents.
Rafine Moda
Though they don’t roast their own beans, Rafine impresses with its delicious coffee and cheesecake. Their French toast is made to perfection. Note that they are closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.
