Discover the Moda neighborhood of Istanbul with our local guide. We’ll explore the secrets of this beautiful neighborhood of Kadikoy along the Asian Bosphorus coast of Istanbul, including the best things to do, attractions, historical sites, places to see, eat, drink, stay, restaurants, and give you all the info you need to plan your visit.
About Moda
Moda is a charming neighborhood in Istanbul’s Kadikoy district, overlooking the Marmara Sea and the Princes’ Islands. It is renowned for its natural beauty, green spaces, tree-lined streets, historic mansions, and chic seaside restaurants and cafes.
Walking through its streets, you can get lost among historic mansions, modern apartments, and lush parks. With its sea view, walking paths, and bike trails along the coast, Moda offers a peaceful atmosphere to its visitors. These features make Moda an ideal place for those who want to live a tranquil life and those seeking a vibrant social scene.
The history of Moda, one of the most beautiful coastal neighborhoods of Istanbul, dates back to the 19th century. It is said that the name Moda was given to the neighborhood because it was a fashionable place to live during that time, chosen by elite families, bureaucrats, and artists, including many English families living in Istanbul.
One of the most striking features of the neighborhood is its embrace of art and artists. Moda hosts many art galleries, workshops, and cultural events. Street art, murals, and graffiti can also be found in every corner of the neighborhood. Its bohemian and friendly atmosphere makes it an attractive destination for both local and foreign tourists.
Things to Do, Places to See
Starting from the Kadikoy pier and walking along the coastal road, you will eventually reach the famous Moda coast. Moda is a serene and beautiful seaside area and one of the most pleasant residential areas in Istanbul.
When you come to Moda, some of the best activities include taking a pleasant walk along the coast, having breakfast in tea gardens or charming venues, and watching the sunset from benches or beautiful spots in the evening.
The antique and vintage shops nestled in Moda’s quaint streets are also worth exploring. Moda’s streets resemble an open-air museum, especially for photographers and art lovers.
Moda Coast and Parks
One of the neighborhood’s most popular spots, Moda Coast, is a great area where you can walk, ride a bike, and enjoy the sea view. There are many tea gardens and cafes where you can sit and sip your tea by the sea.
Moda Park and the subsequent Yoğurtçu Park along the coast are among Moda’s always lively and popular places, especially filled with young people.
Historic Moda Pier
One of the most iconic spots in Moda, the Historic Moda Pier, holds an important place in both Istanbul’s maritime transportation and social life. Built in 1917 by the famous architect Vedat Tek, the pier has been a crucial connection point between the Asian and European sides of Istanbul for many years. The pier, with its architectural style, elegant decorations, and Ottoman-era inspired details, is a historical monument.
Moda Pier is significant not only for transportation but also as a social and cultural center. Today, popular activities include walking around the pier, sitting by the sea to enjoy the view, and cycling along the coast.
Moda Pier is also notable for the cafes and restaurants surrounding it. You can sit in these venues along the coast, sip your coffee, or enjoy a delicious meal with a sea view.
Moda Marine Club
One of the symbols of Moda, the Moda Marine Club, is an ideal venue for those who want to spend pleasant time in a peaceful environment by the sea. Established in 1935, this well-established club has become one of Istanbul’s most prestigious social clubs over the years.
Moda Marine Club offers a wide range of services to its members, including various sports activities, social events, and relaxation areas. Especially in the summer, the club’s outdoor swimming pool and seaside areas attract great interest.
The Moda Marine Club is notable not only for its sports and relaxation facilities but also for its elegant restaurants and cafes. Here, you can enjoy delicious meals with a sea view and have pleasant conversations with friends.
Ice Cream Shops
Another delightful activity in Moda is getting ice cream from the famous ice cream shops and enjoying it by the sea during the summer. Dondurmacı Ali Usta is one of Moda’s most popular spots, often with lines forming in front of it.
Baris Manco House Museum
The world famous Baris Manco (1943-1999) is one of the most popular singers and artists and in Turkey.
The house of Baris Manco is situated in the Moda neighborhood of Kadikoy and has arranged as museum to make his memories live after his death. You may see his goods, stuff, records, works, photos and more at the house museum of Baris Manco.
Bahariye Street
When you continue to the right from the Bull Statue, you will be greeted by the famous Bahariye Street. Bahariye Street is one of the city’s most lively and vibrant spots, full of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Modern boutiques, bookstores, cafes, and restaurants line this street, offering visitors a variety of activities. As you walk along the street, you can hear the tram’s sound and experience a nostalgic Istanbul.
Another charm of the street is its art galleries and cultural centers. Especially Kadikoy Süreyya Opera House is one of the most notable buildings on the street. The opera, ballet, and theater performances held here offer a unique opportunity for art lovers. Bahariye Street is also famous for its street artists and performances. While walking down the street, you can listen to live music and witness various street shows.
Bahariye Street is also quite lively in terms of nightlife. Bars, pubs, and live music venues stay open until late at night, offering visitors enjoyable moments.
Bahariye Street, which is closed to vehicle traffic and one of the popular spots in Kadikoy, is also referred to as the Istiklal Street of the Anatolian Side.
Popular Places, Restaurants, and Cafes in Moda
Moda offers a wide range of dining options for its visitors. When you come to Moda, you will find many quality and elegant places where you can have breakfast, lunch, or dinner, or enjoy tea and coffee by the sea, making for a delightful day.
For breakfast lovers, there are plenty of options in Moda. Especially on weekends, places famous for their rich breakfast menus are quite crowded.
New generation coffee houses, both by the coast and inland, also offer great amenities to their guests. Moda Family Tea Garden by the sea and Ali Usta Ice Cream on Moda Street inland are among the popular spots in Moda.
The fame of Ali Usta’s ice cream has spread throughout Turkey. We highly recommend trying it.
Another popular place here is the Moda Chocolate Shop. It is located a bit further up Moda Street. It is famous for its handmade, incredibly delicious chocolates.
Additionally, the gourmet burger joints, vegan restaurants, and eateries offering flavors from world cuisines scattered throughout the neighborhood are also quite popular.
The fish and meze culture also holds an important place in Moda. You can enjoy fresh seafood at the fish restaurants along the coast.
Shopping in Moda – What to Buy?
Moda is a paradise for shopping enthusiasts. As you walk through the narrow and charming streets of the neighborhood, you will encounter many boutiques, design shops, and antique stores. Here, you can find handmade jewelry, custom-designed clothes, and decorative items. Moreover, in galleries showcasing works by local artists, you can purchase unique art pieces to bring a touch of art to your home.
Furthermore, flea markets and stands selling handmade products set up in Moda’s streets enhance your shopping experience. From here, you can buy unique pieces such as antique items, vintage clothes, and handmade objects.
Entertainment and Nightlife in Moda
Moda is lively and vibrant not only during the day but also at night. The neighborhood’s bohemian and artistic atmosphere is reflected in its nightlife. Various bars, pubs, and nightclubs in Moda offer entertainment options that cater to all tastes. Venues where you can listen to live music often host performances by local artists. You can enjoy live performances in different music genres such as jazz, rock, and blues for a pleasant night out.
Accommodation in Moda – Where to Stay?
Moda offers many accommodation options for its visitors. Boutique hotels reflecting the unique texture of the neighborhood are ideal for those seeking a warm and friendly stay. Hotels located in the center of Moda provide easy access to places to visit.
Additionally, there are rental apartments and apart-hotels in Moda. These types of accommodations are quite practical, especially for long-term stays.
How to Get to Moda? Transportation
Moda, located on the Anatolian coast of the Bosphorus, is approximately 1.5 km from Kadıköy.
The most practical and fastest way to reach Moda from other districts of Istanbul is:
- Take the city line ferries to Kadıköy,
- Then start walking from Kadıköy coast along the shoreline,
- Alternatively, you can take the nostalgic tram from Kadıköy and reach Moda within 5-10 minutes.
You may see the public bus routes and timetables as well as make a route/station search from the Istanbul Municipality Public Busses website. Also check the Istanbul Railway Network Map for the Tram stops and Istanbul Ferry Lines Map for ferries.