Before you lock dates, sketch the basics of local transport with this primer on transportation in Istanbul. A two-minute plan now can save you half an hour at the airport or bus station later.

How to Travel to Cappadocia?

Cappadocia is a region, not a single town. Most travelers stay in Göreme, Ürgüp, Uçhisar, or Avanos. The two nearest airports are Nevşehir Kapadokya (NAV, about 40–45 minutes to Göreme) and Kayseri Erkilet (ASR, about 60–75 minutes to Göreme). If you love simple logistics, flying is the smoothest option. If you prefer an overnight ride that doubles as a hotel night, the sleeper bus can be a good value.

How to Get from Istanbul to Cappadocia by Plane?

Flying is the quickest and most popular path. Several daily services link Istanbul’s airports with NAV (Nevşehir) and ASR (Kayseri). Typical Istanbul to Cappadocia flight time is about 1 hour 15–30 minutes. Door-to-door—counting boarding, luggage, and a shared shuttle to your cave hotel—plan roughly 3 to 4 hours total.

Which airport should you choose? If your hotel offers pickup from Navşehir, choose NAV for the shortest road transfer. If flight times to ASR fit your schedule better, Kayseri works perfectly; shared shuttles meet most arrivals. Ask your hotel to reserve a seat or prebook a seat online. If you are comparing prices, check both Istanbul airports and both Cappadocia airports on the same dates to find a good fare.

At the destination: Shuttle companies group arrivals by valley; rides are straightforward and affordable. If you are booking tours such as balloons or day trips, confirm pickup time and location when you reserve. For planning the rest of your days, keep this guide to what to do in Cappadocia handy.

How to Get to Cappadocia by Car?

Driving gives you freedom and scenery. The Istanbul to Cappadocia distance by road is roughly 730–800 km depending on your route. With rest stops, expect 8–10 hours. Highways are modern and well signed. If you split the trip, popular breaks include Ankara, Eskişehir, or Konya, each with strong food and museum options. Renting in Istanbul and dropping in Cappadocia is possible with many agencies; check one-way fees before you book.

Where to park: Göreme and Ürgüp have paid lots near hotel clusters. Some cave hotels have limited spots in narrow lanes; ask your host for directions and the best approach street before you arrive.

How to Get to Cappadocia from Nevşehir

Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV) sits closest to the valleys. Shared shuttles and private transfers meet flights. The ride to Göreme takes around 40–45 minutes; Ürgüp and Uçhisar are similar. If you like certainty, send your flight number to your hotel and let them arrange the shuttle. If you prefer flexibility, the airport desks sell seats on the spot when flights land.

How to Get to Cappadocia by Bus?

Overnight buses are the budget workhorse. Several companies run an Istanbul to Göreme bus with reclining seats and occasional refreshments. The sleeper bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia typically takes 10–12 hours depending on route and breaks. You board in the evening, sleep, and step off in Göreme after sunrise. Buy tickets online or at major bus stations; choose seats near the middle for a smoother ride.

Pros and cons: You save a hotel night and wake up close to your cave hotel. On the other hand, light sleepers may prefer a daytime ride with breaks or a short flight plus shuttle for the gentlest morning.

How to Get to Cappadocia by Train?

There is no direct Istanbul to Cappadocia train. Travelers who like rail often combine a high-speed train to Ankara or Konya with a regional bus to Nevşehir or Göreme. Total travel time can match or exceed the bus, but the scenery and comfort between major cities are appealing. If your schedule is flexible, this hybrid can turn the journey into part of the trip.

How Long Does It Take to Travel from Istanbul to Cappadocia?

Time depends on your mode and the day. Flights win for speed. Buses win for value. Driving wins for freedom. Rail+buses win for travelers who enjoy variety.

Flight Duration vs. Bus Duration

Flights: 1h15–1h30 in the air; 3–4 hours door-to-door including shuttle to Göreme/Ürgüp.
Buses: 10–12 hours overnight; plan a relaxed first morning for breakfast and luggage drop before tours.
Driving: 8–10 hours plus rest breaks; add time for photo stops between Ankara and the valleys.

Istanbul to Cappadocia Tour Packages

Tours work when you want everything bundled. Operators package flights or buses, airport transfers, hotels, day tours, and sometimes balloon slots. If you prefer zero logistics and one point of contact, a package is ideal. Read inclusions carefully: entrances, lunches, and balloon flexibility vary by company and season.

Guided Tours Including Transportation

Flight-inclusive tours usually book early and use the closest airport to your hotel plan. Bus-inclusive tours keep costs down and still cover highlights like the Göreme Open-Air Museum, underground cities, and Ihlara Valley. Ask about group size, hotel category, and pickup windows before you pay.

2–3 Day Cappadocia Tours from Istanbul

Two days fit a classic loop. Day one covers northern valleys (Göreme, Avanos, Uçhisar). Day two covers southern sites (Derinkuyu or Kaymaklı, Ihlara). Three days add sunrise photographs, a slower museum morning, and a relaxed last lunch before your return flight. If balloon weather cancels on the first day, a third day increases your chances.

Tips for Traveling from Istanbul to Cappadocia

These small choices make the trip easier. They cover when to book, how to connect, and simple ways to keep your first day calm.

Best Time to Book Flights and Tickets

Book flights early for sunrise balloon season. April–June and September–October are popular; fares rise as weekends fill. If you travel in winter, prices are softer and valleys are quiet, but pack layers. Save your wider plan here: plan your trip.

Airport and city transfers: When you return to Istanbul, plan your first hour from the airport with a quick read of local options so your connection to your hotel is smooth. If you are connecting straight to sights, this page of ideas helps you pace your time: where to go.

Luggage and shuttles: Shared vans handle standard suitcases. If you carry special equipment, notify the operator in advance. Keep your hotel name and address written in clear text for the driver.

Balloon timing: Balloons fly at sunrise, weather permitting. If this is a must, plan two mornings in the region to improve your chances. Book with flexible date policies and confirm pickup the day before.

Meals on the move: On buses, bring water and snacks. On flights, expect light service; eat before boarding if you prefer a full meal and sleep on the plane.

FAQ: Getting from Istanbul to Cappadocia

Quick answers for common questions.

What is the easiest way to reach Cappadocia?

Fly from Istanbul to NAV (Nevşehir) or ASR (Kayseri) and take a shared shuttle to your hotel. It is the fastest door-to-door plan for most travelers.

Is there a direct train from Istanbul to Cappadocia?

No direct train. You can ride high-speed rail to Ankara or Konya, then continue by intercity bus to Nevşehir or Göreme.

How far is Cappadocia from Istanbul?

By road, roughly 730–800 km depending on route. Driving takes 8–10 hours with stops.

Are there day trips from Istanbul?

Same-day fly-in, fly-out is possible but rushed. A 2-day plan feels better and gives you a second chance for balloons if weather changes.

Which Cappadocia airport is better?

NAV is closer to the valleys. ASR has more flight choices on some days. Choose the schedule that matches your hotel and tour pickups.

How early should I book hot-air balloons?

As early as you can in peak months. Weather can cancel flights, so allow a backup morning if balloons are important to you.

What about getting to and from airports in Istanbul?

Istanbul has strong public transport and plentiful taxis. Review your options the night before you fly so transfers are quick and calm.

Closing Note from istanbul.com

Now you know how to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia in a way that fits your time and style. Fly if speed matters. Take the sleeper bus if budget and simplicity win. Drive if you want freedom to stop and wander. Mix train and bus if you love the slow arc across the plateau. With a light plan and smart bookings, the valleys, chimneys, and sunrise balloons will be waiting when you arrive.

Where is Şarkoy and How to Get There?

When we head east, to Thrace, from Istanbul, Şarköy is placed in the south. A charming town on the shores of the Marmara Sea. If you prefer to drive, it takes about 2.5 hours. If you prefer the bus, it is approximately 3.5 hours. If you are going to Şarköy by private vehicle, do not miss eating meatballs at Tekirdağ meatball restaurants on the way.

Şarköy Center

Şarköy is one of the most popular touristic routes in this region with its center and surrounding historical villages. In the center of the town, there is a large square and a cute street. Along this street, you will come across various cafes, shops, ice cream shops, pubs, and restaurants. We recommend that you meet the friendly people of Şarköy and chat with the local vendors. You can taste and shop many flavors unique to this region. The region is especially famous for its olives, grapes, and wines. Also, do not pass without trying the ice cream shops of Şarköy. Other local delicacies you may enjoy include lakör börek and peynir helvası. All these delicacies and the shopping opportunities offered by the shops are budget-friendly options. If you want to swim, Şarkoy has the longest beach in Turkey. It is also one of the cleanest beaches in the Marmara region.

Kartaltepe Nature Park

The natural park, which is 40 kilometers from the center of Şarköy, spreads over an area of ​​approximately 2500 square kilometers. If you have been away from nature for a long time, you can find peace by leaving yourself to this vast forest and this park where it meets the sea. There is also a paragliding option as well as a cable car trip. In addition, you can have a pleasant picnic with your loved ones, eat at barbecue restaurants, take nature walks, and enjoy the view. Nature Park has located 40 km from Şarköy.

Gazikoy

The entire Gaziköy neighborhood is a protected area. The reason for this is that it has a serious historical background and the entire region is a carefully protected and important archaeological site. There are many Byzantine churches and houses from this period in the village, which is 25 km away from the center of Şarköy. Magnificent beauties are waiting for you to discover in the village, which fascinates not only with its history but also with its nature. You can reach the village in approximately 30 to 40 minutes by minibusses departing from the center of Şarköy.

Uçmakdere

Uçmakdere is an old Byzantine settlement and a region inhabited by Greeks for many years, so there is a centuries-old viticulture tradition. There are many vineyards around and it has an amazing view. When you come here, you should not leave without seeing the monumental trees. The most interesting activities in the region are paragliding and camping. Uçmakdere is approximately 30 km from Şarköy. It is possible to reach here in approximately 40 minutes by the Süleymanpaşa buses departing from Şarköy.

Yenikoy

Yeniköy, which is a pleasant travel route with its magnificent sea views from the hill, old Ottoman houses adorning its streets, and its peaceful atmosphere, is approximately 40 km away from the center of Şarköy. It is possible to do paragliding here in fine weather.

Hoşköy

It is a cute area with summer houses, walking paths, fishermen, fruit trees, and flower gardens. Hoşköy is 20 km from the center of Şarköy. It is also home to the French-built Hora Lighthouse, built in the 1800s.

Eriklice

Eriklice is a very rooted and rich region in terms of natural, historical, and cultural aspects. So much so that even in Ancient Greek mythology, it appears as the region where Heracles, son of Zeus, lived. With its olives, grapes, delicious fish, and sea views, Eriklice is a rising value that more and more people discover. You can reach Eriklice in about 10 minutes by minibusses departing from Şarköy.

İğdebağlar

İğdebağlar is a cute village where Greek immigrants still live today. It gives peace with its lush nature, sea, and forest. It also has a special texture with Greek houses from the past. You can reach İğdebağlar by buses departing from Şarköy. Transportation to the village, which is about 5-6 km away from the center of Şarkoy, will take at most 10 minutes.

Chateau Kalpak Vineyards

Chateau Kalpak Vineyards, which are cared for meticulously just like French vineyards and where high-quality grapes are grown, are 10 km away from the center of Şarkoy. Located on a small hill, the vineyard offers a fascinating view. Here you can tour the vineyards and reserves and taste the wines produced by professional hands.

Mürefte

Mürefte, which is a summer town 10-12 km away from Şarköy, can be visited on hot summer days to enjoy the sea, sand, and sun, and to have a pleasant wine-tasting tour. The olives of the region are also quite famous. Mürefte, which has been inhabited since 2000 BC, is famous for its fertile lands and vineyards. In addition, its sparkling and clear sea is also quite impressive. It is possible to visit the vineyards and taste delicious wines in the region known as the wine beach. Mürefte is especially famous for its white wine. The small square in the coastal area is also very active, especially in summer. In this square, there are options such as fish restaurants, a long pier, a grocery store, and a market.

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How to get to the Princes’ Islands?

It is possible to reach the islands by ferries departing from Kadıköy, Bostancı, and Beşiktaş. You can check the hours on the “Şehir Hatları” website. Other uninhabited islands are Sedef Island, Tavşan Island, Vordonos Island, Yassıada, Sivriada, and Kaşık Island.

The best way to discover the Princes’ Islands is a full-day tour which you can easily book from Istanbul.com.

Büyükada

Büyükada, the largest of the 4 islands, is also the most well-known and most visited island. It is a place rich in history, culture, and natural beauty; with its pine trees, historical mansions, beaches, and scenic hills. Sometimes it can feel like you are in an Aegean town, not in Marmara. When you come to Büyükada, you can take a bike tour, windsurf, enjoy the scenery, or visit countless nostalgic mansions. Here are the places you must see:

• Aya Yorgi Hill
• Splendid Palace Hotel
• Büyükada Greek Orphanage
• Adakule
• Trotsky’s House
• Islands Museum

Kınalıada

Among the islands, Kınalıada is the closest to Istanbul. It is also the smallest of the four major islands. It takes at most half an hour on foot to walk around the entire island. Many Istanbul residents have their summer houses here. Some people live here in summer and winter. You can swim from anywhere on the island. For this reason, it gets very crowded, especially in summer. Places to see in Kınalıada:

• Dönüşüm (Conversion) Monastery
• Surp Krikor Illuminator Church
• Kınalıada Mosque
• Christos Hill
• Christos Monastery
• Panagia Greek Orthodox Church

Heybeliada

Heybeliada, the second largest island of the Prince Islands, has become a place preferred by many young people and artists living in Istanbul for permanent residence in recent years. While visiting the historical sites of this small island, you can find traces of Turkey’s cosmopolitan and culturally rich texture.

• Greek Orthodox Seminary
• Süslü Mezar
• Nicholas Church
• Aya Yorgi Cliff Monastery
• Bet Yaakov Synagogue
• Değirmenburnu

Burgazada

The name Burgazada comes from the Greek word “Pyrgos” meaning tower, later it was translated into Turkish and turned into “burgaz”. This place has been the subject of many paintings and literary works in history and has hosted important names. Here are some places you should visit to witness the cultural richness of Burgazada:

• Aya Yorgi Garibi Monastery
• Kalpazankaya
• Jesus Hill
• Christos Monastery
• Aya Yani Church
• Burgazada Mosque

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If you want to discover the beauty of the Prince’s Islands with ease and convenience, Istanbul.com has two exclusive offers for you. Prince’s Islands Tour takes you on a scenic journey through the Sea of Marmara, passing by picturesque islands and capturing stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline. During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the charming streets of Büyükada, the largest of the Prince’s Islands, and immerse yourself in the island’s rich history and culture. Through Istanbul.com, you can book this tour in advance and enjoy exclusive discounts. For a more unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, consider the Prince’s Islands Full Day Tour. This tour takes you on a scenic journey to the Prince’s Islands, with stops along the way to explore hidden gems and lesser-known landmarks for a full day.

Why Polonaise?

After the popular uprising in Poland in 1831, which was brutally suppressed, many Polish people took refuge in the Ottoman Empire. Polish Czartoryski bought the lands of Polonezköy to accommodate these families. The village was first named Adampol, then after Poland’s support to the Ottoman Empire in the 1853 Crimean War, it was renamed Polonezköy as a symbol of Turkey-Poland friendship.

How to go to Polonezkoy?

From central districts, it takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour to reach Polonezköy, with your private vehicle. If you want to reach Polonezköy by your private vehicle take the Kavacık turn, which is the first exit of the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, and after 1 km, when you come to Kavacık, turn right (in front of the Acarlar gas station) and go straight, after 5 km, turn left from the gas station and 8 km from here, then you are in Polenezköy.

You can reach there by taking the Kavacık turn, which is the first exit of the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, and after 2 km, turn left and pass through the Acarlar Site.

We take the old Şile road from the Ümraniye Sarıgazi exit of Tem and proceed in the direction of Cumhuriyet Village when we come to Alemdağ. When we come to Cumhuriyet Village, we reach it by turning left.

You can reach Toygar via Beykoz, from there to Mahmut Şevket Paşa, and from there to Üçpınarlar, by heading south.

It is also possible to reach there by public transport. To reach Polonezköy by public transportation, you can use the Kavacık-Beykoz-Riva-Cumhuriyet Village municipal buses (number 137), which comes to Cumhuriyet Village, which is 4 km from the center of Polonezköy.

You can also reach Cumhuriyet village near Polonezköy Nature Park by bus number 138 from Ümraniye.

Things to Do in Polonezköy

You can start your Polonezköy tour with a nice village breakfast among nature and greenery, and then you can enjoy some rest in the nature park and be part of nature. In addition, the park offers a great route for trekking. If you enjoy cycling, you are in luck. Because Polonezköy has one of the few high-standard bicycle tracks in the world. If you are tired of wandering around, you can try meals and desserts at one of Polonezköy’s numerous restaurants that combine both Polish and Turkish gastronomy for lunch. You should not leave Polonezköy without eating Polonez cake. Another option for dining is to enjoy a barbecue in nature. You can find many places that provide this opportunity in the vicinity.

Polonezköy Cherry Festival

The cherry festival, which takes place in June, passes with great joy. Throughout this festival, you can come across various concerts, folk dance performances, and exhibitions.

Polonezköy Nature Park

If you have come to Polonezköy, perhaps this is the first place you should see. The time you spend together with its rich nature and oxygen-rich trees will be healing and rejuvenating for you.

Zofia Rızı Memorial House

Period clothes and historical photographs are exhibited in this house, which was built following the Polish architectural style. A nice place to experience the history of the region.

Czestochowa Church of Virgin Mary

One of the most prominent symbols of Polonezköy, this church was built in 1842, and is also known as the Church of St. Anne. The first small church called the Temple of Holy Anna was built by Saint François Bosnian Priests in 1845-1846. Later, the wooden church that was established here in 1869 was destroyed in the earthquake and today’s Częstochowa’s Mother Mary Church was built in 1914. The church was used as a headquarters by the Turkish Army during the First World War. The church has a very beautiful garden. A place of peace and natural beauty. It hosts various festivals, music recitals, and organizations held throughout the year. You can take a small journey in history with this church, which is only open on Sundays.

Bicycle Track

This beautiful route is a world-class bicycle track and attracts the attention of bicycle lovers.

Glass Art Center

At the Glass Art Center, you can learn the intricacies of glass making by attending workshops, or you can buy glass beads and glass souvenirs for your loved ones.

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You can easily reach Ağva either by public bus 139A from Üsküdar or by renting a private car. Your journey will take 1 to 1.5 hours from the city center. It can be extra crowded on weekends. For this reason, you can also choose weekdays for a quieter holiday.

You can enjoy the sand and sun on the beaches of Ağva. These beautiful beaches have fine, clean sand. Although it is possible to enter the sea from this point, we recommend that you do not enter. The reverse wave prevailing along the entire Black Sea strip in Ağva, located on the Black Sea coast, is a type of wave that can be life-threatening even for those who know how to swim. Instead, you can take a canoe or pedalo trip in a still bay. We also recommend you take nature walks to discover the rich nature of Ağva.

Lighthouse

There is a fairly small but active lighthouse in Agva. This lighthouse is located just in the middle of the river and the sea. You can take a beautiful photo with the lighthouse, the mysterious companion of the sea.

Ağva Port

When the Black Sea is mentioned, there comes fishing to mind. This does not change for Ağva, which is located in the easternmost part of the Black Sea. The fishing boats and rowboats at the confluence of the river and the sea offer a landscape as if out of a painting. You can sit here and enjoy a cup of tea.

Hacıllı Waterfall and Gürlek Cave

Ağva is a magnificent spot for camping lovers. You can feel refreshed by camping near incredible natural beauties such as Hacıllı Waterfall and Gürlek Cave, and you can relax in this serenity and nature as much as you have not been able to rest for years.

Yeşilçay River

Yeşilçay Stream, which embraces Ağva in a round shape, is of great importance for this small settlement. You can take fascinating photos of the river and the natural beauties around it.

Kurfallı Village

The village of Kurfallı is an ideal place to go hiking with its magnificent view.

Fish Restaurants

You can enjoy fresh and delicious fish in the master fish restaurants of Ağva.

Ağva Beach Park

You can enjoy a nice walk or lie on the grass against the sea in the seaside park, which is parallel to the sea and stretches along the entire coast.

Lake Saklı Göl

Located close to Karamandere village, Saklı Göl is one of the natural beauties you should visit when you come to Ağva. Here you can watch the ducks swimming happily, and enjoy a meal in the cafes and restaurants by the lake accompanied by the lake view. The lush forests around are an oxygen store. Saklı Lake and its surroundings are perfect for nature walks.

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How do I get from Istanbul to Şile?

The distance between Istanbul and Şile is approximately 70-80 kilometers. If you want to go to Şile with your private car, you can reach Şile by following the Şile sign over the 1st and 2nd bridges (just before and after the exits and entrances), and by following the Sarıgazi-Şile direction via TEM. Transportation with your private vehicle will take approximately 45 minutes.

If you do not have a private vehicle, you can use a public bus or Şile Ağva Üsküdar tourism buses that run regularly from Üsküdar and Harem to Şile. The journey to Şile by bus takes about one and a half hours, and the journey by public bus takes about 3 hours. If you prefer the public bus, two separate lines are running from Üsküdar to Şile, which are 139 and 139A.

History of Şile

It is known that the first settlers in Şile were the Greeks. It is understood that the first settlement dates back to the Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods, and this shows that Şile is one of the oldest settlements in Istanbul. The name of Şile, on the other hand, emerged when the Miletos tribe was influenced by the beauties of Şile and named it “Marjoram” in their language. Until the region had its current name, it was called by similar names such as Philee, Shila, Aschil, Artena, Kilio, and Kalpe.

It is understood that the first established and settled city in Şile was founded by the Miletos in the 8th century BC, under the name Philee, in the rocky areas of the district. It is known that the Miletos, who dominated the Black Sea coast, founded Şile as a trade city. After various tribes established dominance in the region, the Romans dominated Şile in the 1st century BC. Gürlek Cave was also an important natural prison that served as a prison for Christians during the conflict between the Romans and Christians in the 3rd century AD. The Genoese dominated the region for a while, and then the Seljuks seized the region in 1050. About 50 years later, the region changed hands with the Crusades. Şile, which officially joined the Ottoman lands in 1401, remained Ottoman for 500 years, and during the First World War, it was under the control of the British with the Armistice of Mudros in 1920. In 1923, one of the first municipalities of the Republic was established in Şile, which was cleared of the enemy in 1922.

Şile Castle

This 2,000-year-old castle is located on a tiny island. Although its construction was started by the Genoese, it was completed and used during the Ottoman Empire. The past of Sile Castle is not well known. It was most likely constructed by the Byzantine Empire as a watchtower to protect a small harbor. It was seized by the Genoese in 1305. It was taken over in 1396 by the Ottoman Sultan Bayezid’s army. Limestone quarried on the island was used to construct the Sile Castle. It had four floors and a square ground plan. It was twice repaired: once during the Byzantine rule and once during the Ottoman era. Subsequently, it was neglected and eventually destroyed. Because of illicit treasure hunters’ excavating, it had significant losses in the 20th century.

Unfortunately, its current appearance was restored in 2015 and the outcome received harsh criticism. As a result, it was given the moniker “Sponge Bob Castle” because of the cartoon character resemblance. It appears to be a newly constructed building in my perspective and has lost some of its historical charms. Since it is located on an inaccessible island, Ile Castle cannot currently be visited.

Şile Lighthouse

This lighthouse has become the most significant symbol of Şile that has protected the Isle for many years. Sile Lighthouse is the largest lighthouse in Turkey and the second largest in the world. Many people find lighthouses fascinating. If you are one of them, you can visit this lighthouse that stretches towards the middle of the sea with the wild winds coming from the sea, and you can visit the tiny maritime museum inside. Built by a French architect in the 17th century during the reign of Sultan Abdulaziz who throughout his 15-year rule built lighthouses along the beaches, this lighthouse is stunning. Its construction was intended to aid in the navigation of ships traveling from the Black Sea to Istanbul during the Crimean War. The largest lighthouse in Turkey, the Sile Lighthouse, conforms with international requirements. Constructed on 60-meter-high rocks, the 19-meter-tall lighthouse features a covered stone tower that is 110 cm thick. It is painted horizontally in black and white so that the lighthouse is clearly visible and can be identified during the day.

Crying Rock

There are some spots in Turkey, and which are known for the legends told about them. Crying Rock is one of them. It symbolizes that the lovers who cannot reunite with each other leave themselves to the wild waves of the Black Sea and that the rock sheds tears for this. If you are going to visit this rock, which has a weeping water flow, you can also consider spending time on the wonderful beaches around it.

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If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure with a day trip to Şile and Ağva, be sure to check out Istanbul Tourist Pass® for exclusive discounts and pre-booking options on the Şile and Ağva Day Trip. This tour takes you on a scenic journey through the countryside, stopping at charming villages and hidden beaches along the way. With Istanbul Tourist Pass®, you can skip the hassle of planning and enjoy a stress-free day trip to these breathtaking destinations. So why wait? Book your adventure today and discover the hidden gems of Istanbul.

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If you’re looking to make the most of your trip to Istanbul, and seeking an unforgettable outdoor experience, the Bursa Day Trip is a must-see. Immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the region with this breathtaking journey through scenic landscapes. And if you’re a thrill-seeker, don’t miss Nakkastepe – a high ropes park with zip-lining and other adrenaline-pumping activities. By purchasing your attractions through Istanbul.com, you’ll save time! So don’t wait – book your adventure today and make unforgettable memories in Istanbul!

How do you get to Kilyos Beach Istanbul?

Kilyos is 20 km from Maslak and 50 km from the airport. If you are coming with your private vehicle to reach Kilyos, you have two alternatives: you have to use the Bahçeköy pass either via Sarıyer or in the direction of Maslak. As Maslak road is through Zekeriyaköy and the forest, it is more scenic and more enjoyable.

If you prefer to use public transport, you must first come to Sarıyer or Hacıosman. You can reach Kilyos by minibusses departing from Şehit Mithat Yılmaz Street in Sarıyer and by public buses departing in front of Sarıyer Primary School.

If you prefer to reach Kilyos by metro and then by public bus, you can reach Kilyos in 25 minutes by getting off at the Hacıosman metro stop and taking the public bus number 151.

Kilyos in History

Kilyos has always remained such a quiet and peaceful fishing town. As an important point where Istanbul ends and the Black Sea begins, it has always been important during the Roman and Ottoman Empires. A castle was built at this strategic point. Built-in the 4th century, during the Eastern Roman Empire, this castle was later used by the Genoese and Ottomans. It was of great use in World War I. Unfortunately, this castle is closed to visitors.

What can I do in Kilyos?

There are many activities you can do in touch with nature in Kilyos. You can eat fish at the famous fish restaurants, enjoy the sun and sand on the beaches, and go on long nature walks. Some outdoor restaurants offer barbecue pleasure in nature.

The beaches also offer surfing and different sea activities. However, it is useful to be careful about one thing. The Black Sea is a sea known for its wild waves and swimming in the sea is extremely dangerous even for those who can swim. The reverse wave here can be deadly for those who are in the sea.

You will have to pay a fee to enter the beaches. This fee is constantly updated, but we recommend that you carry cash and take it with you just in case, up to 100 per person for the beach entrance. In addition to these public beaches, there are also beach clubs. If you want to enjoy yourself to electronic music at the seaside, you may have to pay around 300 TL for entrance.

You can find fresh and delicious fish in Kilyos every season. Therefore, we recommend that you do not return without visiting the restaurants in the vicinity.

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No matter what time of the year you are visiting Bursa, you will have one of the best experiences in Uludag, because Uludag is a snowy place in the winter while in the summer its weather becomes cool and breaks the heat of the summer sun. use the Teleferik (Cable Car) to go up the mountain and spend some time skiing there with your friends or enjoy hiking and doing picnics if it is summertime and by the end of the day, go further up to the famous Palabiyik Restaurant and grill your own meat next to your table.

Visit Cumalikizik Village

Cumalikizik Village is a small village that is located just outside the city, it is famous for its cobblestones streets and absolutely delicious breakfast. Walking on the streets of this village will relieve you and calm you down because of its clear and clean weather. Just make sure to go there early to try the most delicious breakfast that is made from 100% natural elements and fresh vegetables.

Spend Some Time at the Bazaar Area

At the heart of Bursa city, the swagger place of the central city where people call it Bazaar. It is the perfect place to drink tea at one of the old small tea houses and watch people walking and shopping together, maybe take some photos and eat the famous Iskender Kebab which is the most famous dish in Bursa city. And when you find Ulu Camii go behind it to drink tea at the hidden Cukur Han.

Visit the Unesco Heritage Places

Bursa city has one of the UNESCO World Heritage places which consists of eight locations spread inside and outside the city and goes back in time to the 13th and 14th centuries. A very special location is the one attached and integrated into the Bazaar and includes the tombs of Osman and Orhan Gazi and the ancient religious and social complex.

The other locations are spread around the city but each one of them has a different beautiful thing.

Spas and Hamams

Because of the volcanic nature, Bursa city has a lot of spring hot therapeutic water that was used for many centuries as public bathhouses where to get massaged and enjoy healthy water, and until now the city offers the same idea of spas and hammams where you can absolutely enjoy the perfect Turkish Hamam using healthy water.

Enjoy the Beautiful Nature

Bursa city is famous for its beautiful nature and clean weather. You can spend a lot of time between trees and waterfalls because they are everywhere in the city or around it. You can go to the Saitabat waterfall, Oylat cave which is one of the most breathtaking sites in Bursa, Uluabat Lake, or just spend a couple of days camping in one of Bursa city’s forests.

If you do not want to spend your time camping, you can spend it in one of the villages near the city like Misi, Inkaya, or Tirilye village where the weather is clean, the food is always fresh and healthy, and people are really friendly.

Food

Bursa city is just like Istanbul city, full of food with various types and kinds of it but the most famous dish in the city is called Iskender Kebab. It is made of grilled meat slices on fresh bread and yogurt on top of it. It is different but really delicious and very famous in the city, nearly all the restaurants offer this dish.

But if you are more of a fan of fish, go to have fresh fish at Arap Sukru Restaurant. It is the most famous restaurant for seafood in Bursa city.

Buy Some Souvenirs

You can find a lot of handmade ceramic plates and vases in Bursa city, and they are not very expensive; you can buy one to remember the fun time you had there.

These two villages resemble the Eastern Black Sea coastal villages, with their fresh air, tranquility and peaceful nature. At the northern part of Istanbul, where the Bosphorus broadens and hugs the sea, on the spot that the land ends and the sea begins; a place that never lacks northeast winds and cold in the winter, and the sultry summers do not trouble, there are two villages, very green and very blue: Rumelifeneri and Garipçe Village. We recommend them to those who have not visited yet. In Istanbul, every trip of a long distance is an adventure, and to take the step to start this adventure is always a rocky road, especially when one is meant to set off not for necessity but for an excursion. We set off for Rumelifeneri in a hot and sultry Istanbul day. Very soon, we will cheer up with the fresh air, full of oxygen and iodine. But, first we are going to stop in Garipçe Village.

Garipçe Village Is Our First Stop

After passing Sarıyer, on a well-asphalted road with lots of bends, we come across with Garipçe Village turnout. The village, that approximately has 70 or 80 houses, now lies below us. Half-timbered Black Sea houses run down both slopes. In older times, when there was no road and you could reach Sarıyer only by the sea, village life was very disconnected from the outer world. The name of the village ‘garip’ (poor, miserable) comes from this isolated life the village had lived for a long time. However, today it is very easy to reach the village by your car or the bus that comes by every 35 minutes. Garipçe Village, with its residents almost entirely from the Black Sea region, has managed to preserve its nature and ambiance. One reason for this situation is that the village is a protected area. You have to get permission even to repair your roof, let alone build a new house. Immediately on the left, stands the 500 years old Genoese castle. The castle still survives with its arched walls, stepped cuttings and cellars, although it looks uncared for and messy due to treasure seekers. The castle has a seascape panorama, and it is planned to be converted to an underwater museum in the future.

The center of the village, resembling a traditional village circle, stands right on the shore. Here, we call in on the Garipçe Aydın Fish Restaurant run by Ali Oğuz. The place, in which businessmen, authors, many researchers from academia have become regulars, is a family restaurant that does not serve alcohol. They offer daily fish choices that they catch in their own boats. In the summer there are usually pilchards, scorpion fish, horse mackerel and striped red mullet. In the winter there is red mullet, turbot, bluefish, bonito, large bonito and anchovy. The place is famous for its fish soups and anchovy with thyme. On the weekends there is also brunch service. For ‘mıhlama’ the ‘kolot cheese’ that comes from Trabzon, and with ‘çökelek’ (curd) and ‘acuka’ (walnut paste) produced in the village, a complete Black Sea breakfast is prepared. Another famous restaurant in Garipçe village is the Asma Altı Restaurant. This restaurant, with its garden beneath the vines where the Istanbulites come to have breakfast – especially in the summer- welcomes its guests indoors in the winter, in a house in which there is a 135 year-old baker’s oven. This restaurant, that forms its fish menu according to the season, is known for its breakfast service. The Asma Altı Restaurant offers an excellent breakfast with its countless choices including pear marmalade of Kastamonu, rose hip marmalade of Tokat, thyme honey from Datça, acuka, cornbread and ‘mıhlama’. We leave behind Garipçe Village, noting that we should absolutely have breakfast here on a weekend.

The First Village Of The Rumeli Bank: Rumelifeneri Village

Rumelifeneri village, that greets the vessels entering the Bosporus from the Black Sea, resembles the charming Black Sea village where fishing boats line up. The lighthouse, which was founded by the French in 1856 and has given its name to the village, is one of the two symbols of the village, together with the castle of Rumelifeneri. Right at the bottom of the tower of the lighthouse, that guides the vessels passing through the Black Sea with its visibility range stretching to 18 miles, there is Saltuk Baba Tomb that can still be visited today. The castle of Rumelifeneri is a spot where the by-passers breathe in the sea-smelling wind from the Black Sea, while enjoying the panorama. In Rumelifeneri village construction activities are banned in order to prevent over-settlement. Once a Greek village, Rumelifeneri village is a place where mostly people from the Black Sea Region have gathered, just like Garipçe village. We look for the old Greek houses but most of them were destroyed. On the slopes of the bays, a few kilometers out of town, construction sites of summerhouse complexes draw attention.

The most famous restaurant of Rumelifeneri is the Roke Restaurant right on the breakwaters in the harbor. The Roke Restaurant, run by Seyhan Karan, takes its name from the ‘roke’ rocks at the harbour. Roke Restaurant is almost 20 years old and you can sit in its garden in the summer. They buy daily fish from the boats docking at the harbor. This family enterprise, run only by women, has been serving its regulars for years. For those who want to visit Rumelifeneri village and spend a few days there, there is no accommodation alternative other than Golden Beach Club. Situated a few kilometers from the center, The Golden Beach Club is in Marmaracık Bay on 220 acres of land. It’s a good alternative, with its own bay and beach, for those who want to swim without going too far from Istanbul. Also, for those who want some action, there are ATV tours to the lake 10 kilometers away, safari tours, bicycle and canoe alternatives. In Golden Beach Club, you can stay at the boutique hotel as well as in the cute bungalows scattered across the slope behind the beach. Bungalows in the winter welcome their guests who want to get away from Istanbul and to find peace in the forest by the sea and enjoy the warmth of the chestnuts on the stove. After a foamy, wildly windy and joyful day, we leave behind Rumelifeneri Village. While finishing the day in which we ate fish with the smell of iodine, had joyous chats, roamed but felt no tiredness, we stopped by the road to Sarıyer and snacked on some blackberries; and we had our photos taken facing the beautiful panorama looking down to the entrance of the Bosporus. And then we set off to be a part of the chaotic life in the city. But we know that our paths will cross here when we wish to get away from the chaos of Istanbul to live in solitude, tranquility and nature.

Garipçe Village and Rumeli Feneri are lovely choices for a weekend, but make sure to check the events taking place in Istanbul this weekend before making plans!

• Have a delicious meal of fish at Anadolu Kavağı and eat Turkish Doughnut (lokma) after the meal.

• Take pictures of the blue-greenish glimmer of the Bosphorus from Rumeli Kavağı.

• Sit on the ledge of Silivri Mendireği and enjoying the sunset

• Ride horses at Kemerburgaz.

• Take a romantic walk on the lengthy beach of Kumburgaz.

• Play golf at the clubs of Kemerburgaz and Silivri.

• Have a delightful barbecue at the “cook yourself-eat yourself” restaurants of Kilyos.

• Going to a night party at the beach clubs of Kilyos.

• Have a sumptuous breakfast with honey and marmalade at Polonezköy on a sunday morning.

• See the caves of Ağva.

• Buy homemade marmalade from Polonezköy.

• Stay in one of the lodges on the riverbank at Ağva, enjoying both the tranquility and the scenery.

• Canoe and sea bicycle, or enjoy a boat ride at Ağva.

• Buy dresses made of Şile cloth at Şile.

• Visit the Lighthouse and Fortress of Şile

• Enjoy a meal of rakı & fish at Barba Yani on Burgazada.

• Eat kuyu kebabı (a type of meat cooked in an underground pit oven) at Kalpazankaya Restaurant on Burgazada.

• Rent a boat and enjoy the moonlight scenery of the Princes’ Islands.

• Have a sunday breakfast with classical music at Buyukada Kültürevi.

• Buy lemon ice cream from the ice-cream vendor Prinkapos to the right hand side of the Buyukada Pier.

• Spend quality time seeing the Princes Islands on horse carriages.

• Have a bicycle tour on Buyukada.

• Climb the path up to Hagia Yorgi, riding donkeys.

• Have a delightful meal of fish-rakı-appetizers at the beachside restaurants of Buyukada.

• Taste the famous palm-tree of Buyukada