Living in Üsküdar: Bosphorus Neighbourhoods on Istanbul's Asian Side

Üsküdar is one of the oldest and most characterful districts of Istanbul. Facing the historic peninsula across the Bosphorus, it combines waterfront villages, traditional neighbourhoods and modern business areas, all connected to the European side by Marmaray and frequent ferries. This guide explains how Üsküdar works for residents, which parts suit which buyers and what to check before choosing a home there.

Last updated: November 2026.

Üsküdar at a Glance

Üsküdar lies on the Asian side, on the shore of the Bosphorus opposite Eminönü and Beşiktaş. With more than half a million residents, it is a large and varied district, stretching from the Bosphorus villages to the hills of Çamlıca and the business areas along the motorways.

The Main Areas of Üsküdar

Üsküdar centre and the waterfront

The historic centre around the ferry piers and the main square has mosques, markets and a busy shoreline, with views of the historic peninsula and Maiden's Tower.

Kuzguncuk, Beylerbeyi and Çengelköy

These Bosphorus villages are known for wooden houses, waterfront cafés and a village atmosphere. Bosphorus zoning rules strictly limit construction, so homes here are rare and highly sought after.

Altunizade and Kısıklı

Altunizade is a business and residential hub on the motorway axis, with office buildings, residences and shopping centres. Kısıklı and Bulgurlu offer quieter residential streets nearby.

Çamlıca and the hills

Çamlıca Hill, with its parks, landmark mosque and city views, is surrounded by residential neighbourhoods with apartment blocks and gated compounds.

Transport and Connections

• Marmaray: the rail tunnel under the Bosphorus connects Üsküdar with Sirkeci, Yenikapı and the European side in minutes, and runs along the Asian shore towards Gebze.
• M5 metro: starts at Üsküdar and runs east through Altunizade towards Ümraniye and Çekmeköy.
• Ferries: regular boats to Eminönü, Karaköy and Beşiktaş make the Bosphorus part of the daily commute.
• Roads: the 15 July Martyrs (Bosphorus) Bridge and the motorways through Altunizade connect the district with the rest of the city.

Rail and ferry access within walking distance is one of the main factors behind demand in Üsküdar. Read our guide to buying property near metro stations.

Daily Life in Üsküdar

• Character: a more traditional and residential feel than districts such as Kadıköy, with historic mosques, markets and tea gardens.
• Green space: Çamlıca Hill, the Bosphorus shore and parks such as Fethi Paşa Grove.
• Healthcare and education: a wide choice of hospitals, schools and universities within the district and in neighbouring areas.
• Shopping: traditional markets in the centre and modern shopping centres in Altunizade.

Housing Types in Üsküdar

• Bosphorus homes: historic houses and apartments in Kuzguncuk, Beylerbeyi and Çengelköy, some with sea views.
• Modern residences: mainly in Altunizade and along the motorway axis, with parking and facilities.
• Gated compounds: on the hills around Çamlıca and in the eastern neighbourhoods.
• Older apartment blocks: in established neighbourhoods, many of them part of urban renewal.

In older buildings, check construction standards and whether the building is designated for renewal. See building standards before buying property in Turkey.

Üsküdar from an Investment Point of View

• Connectivity: Marmaray, the M5 and ferries make Üsküdar one of the best-connected districts on the Asian side.
• Scarce Bosphorus supply: zoning limits support the long-term appeal of waterfront and view properties.
• Steady family demand: established neighbourhoods and good services attract long-term tenants.
• Renewal potential: urban renewal is gradually replacing older stock with modern buildings in parts of the district.

Things to Consider Before You Buy

• Zoning: in the Bosphorus zone, check what can be renovated or extended.
• Hills and parking: many streets are steep and parking is limited in older areas.
• Views: sea views add significant value, so confirm they are protected and not likely to be blocked.
• Legal checks: carry out full due diligence, especially for older or historic buildings.

Comparing sides of the city? Read our guide to the European vs Asian side of Istanbul.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Üsküdar on the Asian side?

Yes. Üsküdar is on the Asian side of Istanbul, directly across the Bosphorus from the historic peninsula and Beşiktaş.

How do you get from Üsküdar to the European side?

By Marmaray under the Bosphorus, by ferry to Eminönü, Karaköy or Beşiktaş, or by road over the Bosphorus bridges.

Which parts of Üsküdar have Bosphorus views?

The waterfront and the slopes above it, including Kuzguncuk, Beylerbeyi, Çengelköy and parts of the centre.

Is Üsküdar good for families?

Yes. Its residential neighbourhoods, schools, parks and transport links make it a popular choice for families.

Find Property in Üsküdar

Browse current property for sale in Üsküdar, for example these residences with Bosphorus views, or compare all property for sale in Istanbul. New to buying in Turkey? Start with our Property Turkey guide or ask our team for a shortlist.