The lively Kadikoy district

An atypical corner of the city still untouched by mass tourism, the Kadikoy district tells the story of the Greek colony founded in 658 BC, which was later transformed into a residential area. Today, it is home to around 500,000 inhabitants and is becoming increasingly festive and lively.

Located on the Asian shores, the first thing to do is to cross the mythical Bosphorus on a traditional ferry while sipping a cup of tea and admiring the scenery. The other option is to take the historic tramway.

Compared to the European side of Istanbul, Kadikoy has a more relaxed atmosphere, which can be experienced by taking the Kadiköy-Moda Nostaljik tram. The red carriage has come a long way, so much so that it looks like something straight out of a museum... but the line is still running and is used as a daily means of transport. Hop on the tram near the ferries and let it take you along Bahariye Caddesi through the colourful architecture of Moda. The tram journey takes just 10 stops.

The narrow streets in the centre of Kadikoy are full of life, but one place manages to stay completely still: Fazil Bey's Turkish café. It's an institution - a famous little oasis dedicated to roasting and grinding its own beans since 1923. The vintage shop with its wooden furniture is packed with coffee lovers.

Kadiköy's many murals illuminate the concrete walls. There are art spaces where you can talk to local artists, buy affordable pieces and take part in activities or courses. Among the cultural spaces, you can visit Arthere, which was founded by a Syrian photographer to support his compatriots in creating and exhibiting art. It also organises screenings and shows and has a small café.

Tip: Autumn, winter and spring are generally the busiest seasons for art.

The people of Kadiköy are proud of this district and are fighting to preserve its heritage, and the Süreyya opera house is a good example of this. Dating back to 1927, it unfortunately never staged an opera and for a long time was used as a cinema until it fell into oblivion. 80 years later, the municipality of Kadiköy launched a massive restoration. The Süreyya Opera House finally reopened its doors in 2007 and is now the best place to enjoy a classical opera, ballet or concert. Tip: the programme generally runs from January to October.

Tourists and young Istanbulites are increasingly taking advantage of the new nightlife venues in Kadikoy. One old classic is the Arkaoda bar, which has certainly played a central role in transforming the district into one of Istanbul's hottest spots. This iconic bar, a music and arts centre, plays host to underground musicians. Relax with a beer in the large garden or dance the night away.

The smell of spices, dried fruit and freshly caught fish overwhelms the senses as you enter the Günesli Bahce Sokak market. This charming and bustling little passageway behind the Surp Takavor church is influenced by Armenian, Greek and Albanian heritage. Tip: have a glass of pickle juice at the counter of Meshur Özcan Tursu, known locally for miraculously curing hangovers.