Hop on a Ferry to the Asian Side
Ferry ride to Kadıköy, the local heart of the Asian side
Taking a ferry across the Bosphorus to the Asian side is one of the simplest and best experiences in Istanbul. For the price of a public transport ticket you get wide views of the old city skyline, the palaces and bridges, a glass of tea on deck and seagulls following the boat. On the other side, Kadıköy and Üsküdar show you a more local, relaxed Istanbul, with busy markets, good food and waterfront promenades.
City ferries (Şehir Hatları and other operators) accept the Istanbulkart, the same card you use for trams and the metro. One card can pay for several people.
The best ferry routes to the Asian side
- Eminönü → Kadıköy (about 20–25 minutes): the classic crossing, with views of Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque behind you and the old Haydarpaşa station ahead.
- Karaköy → Kadıköy (about 20 minutes): handy if you are staying around Galata or Taksim.
- Eminönü or Karaköy → Üsküdar (about 15 minutes): the shortest crossing, passing close to the Maiden’s Tower.
- Beşiktaş → Üsküdar or Kadıköy: a quick hop from the Dolmabahçe side.
- Long Bosphorus line: if you have a full day, the public Bosphorus ferry zig-zags between both continents up to Anadolu Kavağı near the Black Sea.
Ferry tips
- Sit outside on the back deck for the best photos, or by a window in winter.
- Tea and simit on board: buy a glass of tea and a sesame ring from the onboard café, as locals do.
- Avoid rush hour (around 8–9 am and 6–7 pm on weekdays) when boats are full of commuters.
- Check the last boats in the evening; if you miss them, the Marmaray train links both sides under the Bosphorus.
- Go at sunset for the most beautiful crossing of the day.
What to see on the Asian side
In Kadıköy you can explore the food market streets and walk to the seaside park in Moda. In Üsküdar, see the waterfront mosques and watch the sunset opposite the Maiden’s Tower. Prefer a guided trip? A Bosphorus cruise shows both shores in one go.
Ferry to the Asian side: frequently asked questions
How do I take the ferry to the Asian side of Istanbul?
Go to the ferry piers at Eminönü, Karaköy or Beşiktaş, tap your Istanbulkart at the gate and board the boat to Kadıköy or Üsküdar. Boats run frequently from early morning until late evening.
How long is the ferry from Eminönü to Kadıköy?
About 20 to 25 minutes. The ferry to Üsküdar is a little shorter, around 15 minutes.
Can I pay for the ferry without an Istanbulkart?
The easiest way is the Istanbulkart, which you can buy and top up at machines near the piers. Single-use tickets are also sold at machines, but they cost more per trip.
Is the public ferry a good alternative to a Bosphorus cruise?
Yes, for a short and cheap taste of the Bosphorus. A cruise goes further along the strait, often with commentary, while the public ferry is a quick crossing used by locals.
Book tours & tickets
🎟️ See Asian side & Bosphorus tours →Free cancellation on most tours · secure booking with GetYourGuide
Photos: Alan Hilditch from Cleethorpes, North East Lincolnshire, CC BY 2.0; Matti Blume, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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