INTRO
Everyday
If you want to have a real Istanbul experience but at the same time like to discover the diverse culture of the city this tour is certainly for you. Uskudar is one of the oldest districts of Istanbul located on the Asian side of the City with several very nostalgic towns worth visiting. Uskudar is also the home of architect Sinan’s several noteworthy works.
Boat Ride from Karakoy to Üsküdar Pier – We will take a municipal boat and sail to Uskudar side which takes about 12 minutes and this will give you the experience of the main commute thousands of people use daily . Bosphorus ferry ride with its amazing view dividing the two continents is probably one of the best commutes one can ask for.
Mihrimah Sultan Mosque – As soon as you get out of the ferry in Uskudar Pier Mihrimah Sultan Mosque will greet you. Mosque was commissioned by Suleiman The Magnificent for his favorite daughter Mihribah in the 1560’s.
Maiden’s Tower – Walk through the sea side prominent to the point of Sarayburnu for a perfect photo opportunity to see one of the symbols of Istanbul which is “ Maiden’s Tower “ , on the back ground view seeing Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia , Galata Tower on the European side.
Semsi Pasha Mosque & Complex – Constructed by Architect Sinan 440 years ago this beautiful jewel of a small Mosque Complex sits directly on the coastline and in every way shows the architects great sense of design.
Uskudar Market Place - On the way back from the sea side you will drop by Uskudar Market place and feel the daily local atmosphere of the city.
Kuzguncuk a Symbol of Religious Tolerance and Multiculturalism in Turkey– After the market visit walk to one of the most nostalgic towns of Uskudar which is Kuzguncuk. Kuzguncuk is only a few minutes away from the busy transport hub of Uskudar , yet it’s small enough to feel you’re in a completely different world.
Although most of the residents are now Muslims, Kuzguncuk was traditionally home to Jews, Armenians, and Greeks. In fact, there wasn’t a mosque in the village until 1952. Today there are two synagogues, one Armenian and one Greek Orthodox Churches are still in service. Present Kuzguncuk with its colorful Ottoman style wooden houses, grocery shops, art galleries and small cafes has the strong feel of the close neighborhood atmosphere.
