Istanbul Asian Side Transfer Guide — Getting to Kadikoy, Uskudar & More 2026

Istanbul's Asian Side (Anatolian Side), with vibrant neighborhoods like Kadikoy, Uskudar, Bostanci, Maltepe, and Pendik, is attracting increasing tourist interest. From Kadikoy's food scene to Uskudar's historic mosques, from Bagdat Avenue shopping to Moda waterfront serenity — the Asian Side is an essential part of the Istanbul experience.

However, transport planning can be somewhat complex. Istanbul's two airports are on different sides: Istanbul Airport (IST) is on the European Side, while Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) is on the Asian Side. Which airport you use significantly affects your travel time to an Asian Side accommodation. In this guide, we compare all transport options from both airports to the Asian Side.

Getting from IST Airport to the Asian Side

Istanbul Airport (IST) is located in the northern part of the European Side. Crossing to the Asian Side requires using one of the Bosphorus bridges or the Eurasia Tunnel. This increases both distance and traffic risk. IST to Kadikoy is approximately 55-65 km, to Uskudar 50-60 km, to Pendik 70-80 km.

Getting from SAW Airport to the Asian Side

Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) is located in Pendik on the Asian Side. It is much closer to Asian Side neighborhoods and requires no bridge crossing. SAW to Kadikoy is 35-40 km, to Uskudar 40-45 km, to Pendik just 10-15 km. If your accommodation is on the Asian Side, choosing a SAW flight can halve your transfer time.

Private Transfer: The Most Comfortable Way to the Asian Side

A private transfer is the most advantageous option, especially when traveling from IST to the Asian Side. Why? Bridge tolls and motorway fees are included in the fixed price, the optimal route is chosen based on real-time traffic, child seats and spacious luggage areas are provided, and the driver knows the area. When traveling from IST to the Asian Side, the driver selects between the July 15th Bridge, FSM Bridge, or Eurasia Tunnel based on live traffic.

Merry Tourism offers transfers from both airports to all Asian Side neighborhoods. Mercedes Vito for families, sedan for couples, Sprinter for large groups. Price is set based on airport and destination area and does not change. Same price day or night.

Public Transport to the Asian Side

Getting from IST to the Asian Side by public transport is possible but complex. First option: M11 metro to Gayrettepe, M2 to Yenikapi, Marmaray to Kadikoy/Uskudar. This route requires 3 transfers and takes 1.5-2 hours total. Second option: Havaist to Kadikoy or Taksim, then ferry to Kadikoy. Both options make luggage carrying and child management challenging.

Check metro.istanbul and sehirhatlari.istanbul for current schedules. Metro closes at midnight — public transport is not an option for night flights.

Taxi to the Asian Side

You can take a taxi from IST to the Asian Side, but bridge tolls and the long distance significantly increase the metered fare. During rush hours, bridge traffic waiting time is also reflected on the meter. No child seats. From SAW, taxis to Asian Side neighborhoods are shorter and more economical.

For groups of 3+, a private transfer from IST is more economical per person than a taxi. From SAW, taxi and private transfer prices may be close for 1-2 passengers on short distances — but comfort, child seats, and safety advantages remain with private transfer.

What to See on the Asian Side

Kadikoy is one of Istanbul's most vibrant neighborhoods: Moda waterfront, Bahariye Avenue shopping, diverse meyhane and restaurant scene, antique streets, and weekend markets. Uskudar offers a historic atmosphere with Maiden's Tower views, Mihrimah Sultan Mosque, and waterfront promenades.

Bagdat Avenue is one of Turkey's most famous shopping streets — 6 km of brands, cafes, and restaurants. Fenerbahce and Caddebostan waterfronts are ideal for family walks and picnics. Merry Tourism also offers tour transfer services within the Asian Side.

How to Book Your Transfer

Booking an IST or SAW to Asian Side transfer with Merry Tourism takes 2 minutes. Enter flight number, passenger count, child seat needs, and address. Instant confirmation with driver details. WhatsApp communication throughout.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours. Payment in EUR, USD, or TRY. Online credit card available. Transfers to Kadikoy, Uskudar, Bostanci, Maltepe, Pendik, and all Asian Side neighborhoods.