Moda: the seafront and gardens of Kadıköy

Updated on October 8, 2026

Moda is the residential neighbourhood of Kadıköy, on Istanbul's Asian side, stretching out to a headland open to the Sea of Marmara. People come for the seafront promenade (Moda Sahili), the lawns of the waterside park, the restored pier, the tea gardens and the sunset over the European shore and the old city. The neighbourhood can be walked in half a day from the Kadıköy ferry pier, through streets of old houses, cafés and bookshops. Access is free at all times; cafés and shops set their own hours. Information as observed in October 2026.

Highlights

The Moda pier

The small tile-roofed jetty, restored, is the neighbourhood's landmark. People sit here to watch the ferries, the fishermen and the cargo ships on the Sea of Marmara.

The promenade and the seafront lawns

The path runs along the coast around the headland, with sloping lawns where locals picnic and read. The view takes in the Princes' Islands and, in clear weather, the skyline of the old city.

Bahariye Street and the nostalgic tram

The pedestrian street leaving the ferry square is lined with shops and cafés; the little old tram that runs along it serves Moda in a loop. See the guide to Kadıköy and Moda.

The tea gardens of Moda

A tea garden in a shaded garden overlooks the sea; tea, coffee and snacks come cheap, facing the sunset. Prefer neighbourhood tea gardens to the most scenic terraces.

Practical info

Tips

Arrive an hour before sunset to find a spot on the lawns. Combine with the Kadıköy Tuesday market and the cafés of Bahariye Street. In the evening the area is quiet and popular; for nightlife, the bars are around Kadife Street, see Istanbul at night. The neighbourhood has a reputation for being open-minded: see LGBT in Istanbul.

How to get there

Moda is south of Kadıköy, a 20 to 30 minute walk from the Kadıköy pier (Bahariye Street, then Moda Street). Ferries from Eminönü or Karaköy to Kadıköy, metro M4 Kadıköy station, then the nostalgic tram or on foot; see Istanbul's transport. Further south, Fenerbahçe Park extends the walk.