Istanbul's Üsküdar district represents an excellent opportunity to get away from the historic peninsula while still settling firmly in the heart of the city's history as well as getting a feel for how locals pass their everyday lives.
Mihrimah Sultan Mosque
Mimar Sinan is widely believed to be the greatest of all the Ottoman architects, and the beauty of the city is largely due to his influence.
This is the mosque that he designed specifically for the love of his life, the daughter of Suleiman the Magnificent, Mihrimah Sultan.
Yeni Valide Mosque
This mosque was built to honor a mother rather than a daughter, specifically commissioned by Sultan Ahmed III in honor of his mother, Emetullah Râbi'a Gülnûş Sultan.
The mosque is an entire complex and you can visit the tomb of Emetullah Râbi'a Gülnûş Sultan as well as wander the grounds.
Mimar Sinan Bazaar
As with the courthouse being turned into a school, one of the brilliant things you see in Üsküdar is the way that historic buildings have been restored and are being used to this very day, even if for something completely different than their usual purpose.
Mimar Sinan built a hamam on this site, but now it's used as a small little shopping center selling clothing and shawls, though the roofing and tiles are still identical to the original hamam.
Üsküdar Fish Market
Head back through the Üsküdar fish market, where you'll see all varieties of fish on display, all freshly caught.
The market is huge, and has plenty of restaurants where you can eat the wares being sold, or head right next door to any one of many places selling baklava or other local goods, similar to a normal bazaar.
Before heading back, you may want to stop off for a bite to eat at one of the historic eateries that you'll find all over Üsküdar, or there are even one or two historic hamams (built by Mimar Sinan) still in use, if you'd like a truly authentic hamam experience.
