Ferries, Ottoman monuments, and the waterfront of the Asian shore

The main area for walking in Uskudar is the square by the ferry piers and the adjoining waterfront. Urban transport is constantly moving here, ferries are operating, and open spaces stretch along the water, making it convenient to watch the Bosphorus and marine traffic. In clear weather, the silhouette of Istanbul's historic center, the mosques of the European shore, and the Maiden's Tower are clearly visible from here.

Within the district, it is worth walking not only along the shore but also through the quarters behind the square. On Buyuk Hamam Street and in the neighboring lanes, there are small shops, bakeries, markets, and old urban hammams, reminding visitors of the commercial function of this part of the city. For a longer walk, you can go higher up toward the large cemeteries and historic complexes, where another side of Uskudar becomes visible - quieter and connected with the religious history of the city.

Among the important points of the district are the Selimiye Barracks, known from the history of the Crimean War, and Karacaahmet Cemetery, one of the largest old Muslim cemeteries in Istanbul. Nearby are the Kuzguncuk quarter with its historic residential buildings and Camlica Hill, from which broad views of the city open up. If you want to see palaces on the Asian shore, from Uskudar it is convenient to continue toward Beylerbeyi.

The easiest way to get here is by ferry from the Eminonu, Besiktas, or Karakoy districts, as well as by the Marmaray line and metro, which connect Uskudar with other parts of Istanbul. The district is best visited in the morning or closer to evening, when everyday local life is especially noticeable on the waterfront and the light is better for views across the Bosphorus.