Istanbul: Asian Side Experience With Camlica Mosque & Lunch

Exploring the Asian side of Istanbul offers a unique cultural experience. This enriching 8-hour tour takes visitors on a journey through Karakoy, Kadikoy, and Uskudar, showcasing the vibrant markets, impressive Camlica Mosque, and delectable Turkish cuisine. From a traditional Turkish breakfast to a delightful lunch and Kanlica yogurt, this tour promises an immersive adventure that immerses travelers in the rich heritage of Istanbul’s dynamic Asian side. Whether seeking a deeper understanding of the city or simply an engaging day of discovery, this experience…

Contents show

Key Points

Immersive 8-hour tour exploring Istanbul’s vibrant Asian side, including the Karakoy neighborhood, Kadikoy market, Moda Promenade, and the grand Camlica Mosque.
Traditional Turkish breakfast, lunch, and yogurt snack included, with hotel pickup and transportation provided.
Opportunities to experience local culture, browse unique boutiques, and enjoy panoramic views of the Bosphorus.
Guided tour of the Camlica Mosque, the largest mosque in Turkey, offering insights into Islamic architecture and faith.
Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, with dress code and traffic delays noted.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 8-hour tour offers visitors an immersive experience exploring Istanbul’s Asian side.

It showcases the vibrant Karakoy neighborhood, a ferry ride to Kadikoy, and a guided tour of the impressive Camlica Mosque.

Travelers will savor a traditional Turkish breakfast and lunch, as well as a yogurt snack in Kanlica.

Travelers will enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast, lunch, and a yogurt snack in Kanlica on this immersive tour.

The tour is priced from $300 per person and includes hotel pickup, transportation, entrance fees, and a certified guide.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers should note the dress code and plan for potential traffic delays.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Istanbul

Highlights of the Itinerary

The tour begins with a pickup from the traveler’s accommodation in an air-conditioned vehicle, providing a comfortable start to the day.

The first stop is vibrant Karakoy, where travelers can sample a traditional Turkish breakfast.

Next, they’ll take a ferry ride across the Bosphorus to Kadikoy, exploring the lively Kadikoy Fruit Market.

The itinerary continues with a stroll along the Moda Promenade, a cultural hub.

Lunch is served at a traditional Turkish restaurant in Uskudar, followed by a guided tour of the impressive Camlica Mosque.

The tour concludes with visits to Otagtepe Park and Kanlica for a yogurt snack.

Exploring Karakoy and Kadikoy

Departing from their accommodation, travelers embark on the tour’s first stop – vibrant Karakoy.

They sample a traditional Turkish breakfast, seeing the lively atmosphere of this dynamic neighborhood.

The next stop is a ferry ride across the Bosphorus to Kadikoy, where they explore the bustling Kadikoy Fruit Market.

Here, they can:

Indulge in the vibrant sights, sounds, and smells of the bustling marketplace. Interact with local vendors and sample fresh, seasonal produce. Browse the diverse array of spices, dried fruits, and traditional Turkish delicacies.

Indulge in the vibrant sights, sounds, and smells of the bustling marketplace.
Interact with local vendors and sample fresh, seasonal produce.
Browse the diverse array of spices, dried fruits, and traditional Turkish delicacies.

The tour continues with a stroll along the Moda Promenade, a cultural hub offering a glimpse into the daily life of Istanbul’s Asian side.

Moda Promenade: A Cultural Hub

After exploring the bustling Kadikoy Fruit Market, travelers stroll along the Moda Promenade, a vibrant cultural hub on Istanbul’s Asian side.

This picturesque seaside promenade offers a glimpse into local life. Lined with cafes, shops, and parks, it’s a popular gathering spot for residents.

Visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere, browse unique boutiques, and people-watch. The Moda Promenade provides a chance to immerse in the district’s rich cultural heritage and contemporary vibrancy.

It’s an ideal location to experience the charm of Istanbul’s Asian neighborhoods beyond the typical tourist sites.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch at a Traditional Turkish Restaurant

Following the stroll along the vibrant Moda Promenade, the tour leads guests to a traditional Turkish restaurant in Uskudar for a delightful lunch.

The restaurant offers:

An authentic Turkish dining experience with well-known local dishes.
A cozy and welcoming ambiance, allowing guests to enjoy the culture.
Attentive service from the staff, ensuring a pleasant and satisfying meal.

Guests can expect a hearty and flavorful lunch, providing a perfect midday break from the sightseeing activities.

The traditional Turkish restaurant offers a wonderful opportunity to savor the local cuisine and gain a deeper appreciation for the Asian side of Istanbul.

There's plenty more to explore in Istanbul

Camlica Mosque: The Largest Mosque in Turkey

As the tour progresses, visitors are led to the impressive Camlica Mosque, the largest mosque in Turkey completed in 2019.

Accommodating over 25,000 worshippers, the mosque’s stunning architecture showcases intricate Ottoman-inspired details.

Visitors can explore the grand interior with its high ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and calligraphic artwork.

The guided tour provides insights into the mosque’s significance and the Islamic faith.

The guided tour provides insights into the mosque’s significance and the Islamic faith.

From the mosque’s elevated location, guests enjoy panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the Asian side of Istanbul, offering a memorable experience during the tour.

Otagtepe Park and Kanlica Yogurt Snack

Upon departing the grand Camlica Mosque, the tour continues to Otagtepe Park, situated on the shores of the Bosphorus.

Here, visitors can:

Stroll through the tranquil park, taking in the stunning views of the waterway and the Asian side of Istanbul.
Sample the renowned Kanlica yogurt, a local specialty known for its thick, creamy texture and tangy flavor.
Relax on the park’s benches, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the gentle breeze coming off the Bosphorus.

The tour’s final stop offers a delightful contrast to the grandeur of the mosque, providing a chance to savor a quintessential Turkish experience.

Important Details and Traveler Feedback

The tour features several important details that travelers should keep in mind.

Participants must dress modestly, with no revealing clothing, and bring a scarf or sweater. Guides wait a maximum of 10 minutes at the hotel lobby, so punctuality is essential.

Heavy morning traffic in Istanbul may affect travel times, so travelers should plan accordingly. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility or health issues.

Based on five glowing reviews, the tour receives an overall rating of 5/5, with travelers highlighting memorable experiences, beautiful views, and a delicious lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Based on the information provided, bringing your own food and drinks is not mentioned as an option for this tour. The tour includes lunch and a yogurt snack, so outside food and beverages are likely not permitted.

How Do I Pay for the Tour, and What Payment Methods Are Accepted?

You can pay for the tour in advance online or in-person on the day. Major credit cards, like Visa and Mastercard, as well as PayPal, are accepted. Full payment is required to secure your booking.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Camlica Mosque?

Yes, there’s a dress code for visiting the Camlica Mosque. Visitors should avoid revealing clothing and bring a scarf or sweater to cover their heads and shoulders when entering the mosque.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Include Additional Sites?

Yes, the itinerary can be customized to include additional sites. Travelers should consult with the tour provider to discuss their preferences and any additional costs for a customized tour. The provider will work to accommodate reasonable requests within the tour’s duration.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This provides flexibility for travelers and allows them to receive a full refund if they need to cancel their booking within the specified timeframe.

The Sum Up

The "Istanbul: Asian Side Experience With Camlica Mosque & Lunch" offers an enriching 8-hour journey, exploring Karakoy, Kadikoy, and the impressive Camlica Mosque. Travelers can enjoy a scenic ferry ride, local markets, the Moda Promenade, a traditional Turkish lunch, and a Kanlica yogurt snack. With its diverse highlights, this tour provides an immersive experience of Istanbul’s vibrant Asian side.