While Istanbul’s European side is known for its grand mosques, palaces, museums, and the happening nightlife, people visit the Asian side for a more laidback and trendy lifestyle, filled with history and culture. From Suaddiye to Moda, it is an authentic and relaxed introduction to Istanbul’s quintessential arts and culture scene, accompanied by seaside charms and aromatic cafes.
Let's explore all the things to do in Moda Istanbul that will introduce visitors to the local vibe and community.
For those who want to familiarize themselves with the history of the Asian side of this beautiful metropolis, a visit to the Barış Manço Museum and the Süreyya Opera is the perfect place to start. The Barış Manço Museum is an integral part of any Asian Side museums tour. It is a house museum that is a tribute to its namesake, “Barış Manço”, a legendary Turkish artist who passed away in 1999.
The house museum has been carefully preserved by the artist’s family and the Kadıköy municipality to give visitors a glimpse into the life of one of the county’s most beloved artists. For tourists and other visitors to the city, this incredible house museum is a chance to explore Turkish pop culture and to understand its influences up close.
Another important stop on the Kadıköy culture tour is the historic Süreyya Opera. Also known as the Süreyya Cultural Center (Süreyya Kültür Merkezi), this beautiful Opera house is famous for its grand architecture. The building of the Opera house was commissioned by the deputy of Istanbul, “Süreyya İlmen Paşa”, and is a design of the Ottoman Armenian Architect Kegham Kavafyan. The building was used for the longest time as a theatre and cinema venue; however, after extensive restorations by the Kadıköy municipality, it opened its doors to visitors again as a restored Opera house on October 27, 2007.
Another enjoyable way to spend a Suadiye weekend on the Asian side is to take a scenic walk down the Moda coastline and pier. Moda is a quaint seaside neighborhood away from noise of tourism hotspots. It is known for its laidback local vibes, serene coastline, and a plethora of small cafes, bookshops, bakeries, vintage shops, delicious eateries, and art spaces.
For people looking for a relaxed and mellow activity during a trip to the Anatolian side, Moda Sahil (Moda Coast) is the ideal location to visit. Full of grassy lawns, benches, rocks, and shaded seats, Moda Coast offers visitors an opportunity to spend a lazy afternoon reading a book or simply gazing at the lulling waves of the sea.
Still a functioning pier, this beautifully restored cultural space on the Moda coast is home to a scenic cafe and well-equipped library today. It is also a part of Kadıköy cultural tour. Known for its incredible views of the Marmara Sea and Fenerbahçe Marina, this beautiful spot is the go-to place for many locals and visitors to read a book, complete work, or simply partake in a cup of aromatic coffee accompanied by delicious pastries.
After a spring day of exploring the history and culture of the Anatolian side of Istanbul, a stay at The Marmara Suadiye offers the comforts of home away from home to its guests. Situated conveniently at the well-known Bağdat Caddesi, The Marmara Suadiye is a great place to stay for those who want to experience the charms of the Asian side of Istanbul up close.
Guests at The Marmara Suadiye get to experience the comforts of home, accompanied by the exceptional hospitality and service concept of The Marmara Hotels.
The Marmara Suadiye Residences are 1+1, 2+1, and 3+1 apartment-style residences that not only offer privacy but also a wide range of amenities such as high-speed WiFi, LED TV, washing & drying machines, air conditioning, laundry and dry cleaning, fridge, housekeeping service, and car park. Furthermore, these versatile living spaces are pet-friendly as well. Discover the Asian Side! Book your stay at The Marmara Suadiye Residences today!
Some of the best places to visit in Moda include the Barış Manço Museum, Moda pier and coast, Moda Park, the historic All Saints Moda Church, and Bahariye Street.
The Barış Manço Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday every week. The museum is closed on Mondays and public holidays.
Kadıköy–Moda is accessible from Suadiye through various modes of public transportation (bus, mini bus, train) and taxi.
https://www.kadikoy.bel.tr/en
https://istanbul.goturkiye.com/asian-side
https://tr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moda,_Kad%C4%B1k%C3%B6y
https://www.timeout.com/istanbul/attractions/moda-coastal-park
https://whichmuseum.com/place/kadikoy-10478