Hello everyone! In today's blog I would like to show you what places you can see on the Asian side of Istanbul and in this particular case, take you to one neighborhood which is called Kuzguncuk. Basically it is kind of similar to Balat on the European side but this one is here on the Asian side. Many people tend to think that most of the important places are in the European side and yes, the most emblematic and iconic ones are there. But what about the Asian side? Of course there are many places to visit. So I'm going to take you to see one of those beautiful neighborhoods. If you're staying in Sultan Ahmet or Taksim you can take a ferry to Üskudar from Eminönü port. Once you have arrived to Üsküdar just across the main road you'll find the bus station next to the Mosque. Take any bus starting with the number 15. 

You have to get off at the fourth station called Kuzguncuk. Kuzguncuk is another neighborhood where we can find churches, mosques and synagogues together because for centuries this place was home to a mix of Jews, Greeks, Armenians and Turks.

This place is also famous for its co-existence of many ethnic and religious groups within Istanbul.

Kuzguncuk is also famous for its colorful wooden houses which give a more picturesque and unique touch to the area. 

Here we can feel a unique and distinct atmosphere. In this region straight out of fairytale, does not share in the chaos of Istanbul. 

I invite you to get lost in these streets and discover the beauty of this place. 

This is a large field in the middle of the neighborhood, divided in small plots that are rented out to locals where they can grow many vegetables. 

Here we can also find many cute boutique type cafes and restaurants. 

During the summer season especially, when the sun sets many locals rush to this area to spend a good time with friends or family. Each one of these cafes is so nicely decorated that it's a bit hard to choose only one to have a coffee or tea, but whichever you choose surely you'll enjoy it. If you ask me, where I decided to sit and rest after walking a lot.

In this café where had a menemen and tea. 

One of my favorite parts of Kuzguncuk where the views we had from the Bosphorus and the bridge.

You just have to walk up the Bicanefendi street for a couple of minutes until you find the best views from above.

Kuzguncuk is a very beautiful neighborhood, which also offers amazing views from the city. Here basically centuries ago is where Jewish communities, Armenians and also Greeks used to live together in this place. This is another area, where you can find in the same place a synagogue, a mosque, many churches as well. So this area is very beautiful and also has a different environment from the other districts in Istanbul. As you can see in the above picture what wonderful views from the Bosphorus and one of the bridges, and I'm pretty sure if you come here you will definitely enjoy it. So, this is why if you want to escape a bit from the crowds from the European side and the most common areas for tourists. This is a great option for you as well. This way you can see a different part of Istanbul where you won't find big restaurants either. Here you will find mostly boutique type restaurants and cafes. So, this is something very interesting about this area and highly recommend you coming here. 

Before finishing our tour we decided to eat döner in this place called Metet Közde Döner. Here everything is nicely cooked and prepared. The lavaş is done at the moment they take your order and the döner is cooked on embers which give a special flavor to the meat. 

For a döner dürüm we paid twenty nine Turkish liras and for a plate full of roasted döner, thirty four liras. 

The prices are a bit higher compared to many other places selling döner in Istanbul but the quality and great flavor of this meat it's totally worth it. This is one of the best places selling döner in Istanbul and you cannot leave this neighborhood without trying one. 

This is our other alternative for you incase if you decide to come into the Asian part of Istanbul. Many people think that only in the main area of Üsküdar there are places to see such as the Maiden's Tower but if you want to get a bit far and see other areas then, this is the place for you. Hopefully you have enjoyed it and don't forget that if you want to keep receiving more tips and recommendations about Istanbul and Turkey. Then, don't forget to subscribe, see you next time. Bye! Bye!