Many visitors focus only on the historic core, but Istanbul also opens out toward islands, beaches, forests, and small getaway spots. Before setting off, it is worth checking ferry and transport details on official sources such as Şehir Hatları. If you are still planning your city itinerary, you may also want to pair these ideas with classics such as a Bosphorus Cruise or a visit to the Princes' Islands.
Don’t leave Istanbul without doing these things near the city
You can’t get the full pleasure of the Princes' Islands and the areas near Istanbul without trying at least some of the experiences below.
On Büyükada and the Princes' Islands
- Taste the famous palm dessert of Büyükada (Big Island).
- Travel around the islands by bike and enjoy the changing sea views.
- Go to a restaurant by the sea on the islands and enjoy raki and fish together.
- Visit Büyükada Aya Yorgi Church.
- Have a drink at the restaurant on the hill where Aya Yorgi Church is located, then lie on the grass and watch the wonderful island scenery.
- Wrap a piece of rag onto the trees near Aya Yorgi Church and make a wish.
- Stay one night at Heybeliada Halki Palace and experience its atmosphere.
- Enjoy a coach ride on the islands.
- Taste the lemon ice cream at Ice-Cream Maker Prinkapos, on the right-hand side while climbing from Büyükada Dock.
- Take a sea bath in the first bay you find.
- Have a sea bath at Yörükali Beach and enjoy a picnic.
- Have a Sunday breakfast at Büyükada Culture House while listening to classical music.
- Feed the cats and dogs in Büyükada.
- Hire a rowboat on the islands and enjoy the moonlight.
In Burgazada
- Experience raki and fish at Barba Yani in Burgazada.
- Try pit kebab at Kalpazankaya Restaurant in Burgazada.
For long walks and coastal views
- Take a long walk while watching the villas and waterside mansions under the hyacinth.
- Sit across from the Şile Lighthouse and enjoy your drink.
- Visit Şile Castle.
- Buy linen clothes that are specific to Şile.
In Ağva and Polonezköy
- Hire a rowboat and row along the rivers around Ağva, or enjoy a canoe and sea bicycle.
- Stay in one of the boarding houses by the rivers in Ağva and enjoy the scenery and the sound of silence.
- Visit the caves in Ağva.
- Buy some of the homemade jams sold by villagers by the roads in Polonezköy and Ağva.
- Have a village-style breakfast in one of the famous restaurants in Polonezköy by going early in the morning.
For beaches, romance, and outdoor activities
- Go to one of the beach clubs in Kilyos and enjoy the sea and the sun.
- Take a romantic walk on the long beach of Kumburgaz.
- Play golf at the famous golf clubs of Kemerburgaz or Silivri.
- Ride a horse in the facilities in Kemerburgaz.
- Sit in the bar at the far end of Silivri Breakwater and watch the sea.
How to plan these experiences well
These suggestions work best if you divide them by area instead of trying to do everything in one trip. The islands can easily fill a full day, especially if you want time for a seafood meal, a swim, or a slow walk to Aya Yorgi. Coastal towns such as Şile and Ağva suit travelers who want more nature and a quieter atmosphere. If island time is your priority, our Princes' Islands guide is a useful starting point.
Transport and availability can change by season, especially for ferries, beach venues, and local businesses. For historical background on the islands, you can also consult Wikipedia’s Princes' Islands page. Before visiting any restaurant, hotel, or beach facility named above, it is wise to check current details directly with the venue.
Why these day trips still matter
The charm of these places is not only in famous landmarks, but in the rhythm of the experience: cycling by the sea, stopping for ice cream, taking a rowboat at sunset, or lingering over breakfast in a village setting. Together, they show a softer side of the city and its surroundings. If your itinerary also includes the old city, you can balance these nature-focused escapes with iconic stops like Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar.
Just mention them, and most Istanbul lovers will immediately start telling stories.
