Why is it called Polonezkoy?
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 for the Ottoman Empire in the 1853 Crimean War, it was renamed Polonezköy as a symbol of Turkey-Poland friendship. You can also read more general background on Wikipedia.
How to go to Polonezkoy?
From central districts, it takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour to reach Polonezkoy by private vehicle. If you are driving, you can 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 later you arrive in Polonezkoy.
You can also reach the area by taking the Kavacık turn, which is the first exit of the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, and after 2 km, turning left and passing through the Acarlar Site.
Another route is to take the old Şile road from the Ümraniye Sarıgazi exit of TEM and continue toward Cumhuriyet Village when you come to Alemdağ. When you reach Cumhuriyet Village, you can get there by turning left.
You can also reach Toygar via Beykoz, from there to Mahmut Şevket Paşa, and from there to Üçpınarlar by heading south.
It is also possible to reach Polonezkoy by public transportation. To reach Polonezköy by public transportation, you can use the Kavacık-Beykoz-Riva-Cumhuriyet Village municipal buses, number 137, which go to Cumhuriyet Village, 4 km from the center of Polonezköy.
You can also reach Cumhuriyet Village near Polonezköy Nature Park by bus number 138 from Ümraniye. For current routes and service details, it is best to check the official IETT website before your trip.
Things to Do in Polonezkoy
You can start your Polonezkoy visit with a nice village breakfast surrounded by greenery, then continue with a peaceful walk in nature. The nature park offers a pleasant route for trekking, making it a good option for travelers who want fresh air and open space close to the city. If you enjoy cycling, you are in luck, because Polonezköy has one of the few high-standard bicycle tracks in the world.
When it is time for lunch, you can stop at one of Polonezköy’s many restaurants, where both Polish and Turkish gastronomy come together. You should not leave without trying Polonez cake. Another dining option is to enjoy a barbecue in nature, as there are many places in the area that offer this experience.
If you are planning a wider Istanbul itinerary, you can balance this countryside escape with iconic city experiences such as a Bosphorus Cruise or a visit to the Princes' Islands.
Polonezköy Cherry Festival
The cherry festival, which takes place in June, is celebrated with great joy. During the festival, you may come across concerts, folk dance performances, and exhibitions.
Polonezköy Nature Park
If you have come to Polonezköy, this is perhaps the first place you should see. The time you spend among its rich natural surroundings and oxygen-rich trees can feel both healing and rejuvenating.
Zofia Rızı Memorial House
Period clothes and historical photographs are exhibited in this house, which was built in the Polish architectural style. It is a nice place to experience the history of the region more closely.
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 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. It has a very beautiful garden and offers a peaceful setting in nature. It also hosts various festivals, music recitals, and other organizations throughout the year. You can take a small journey into history here, but note that it is only open on Sundays.
Bicycle Track
This beautiful route is a world-class bicycle track and draws the attention of cycling enthusiasts.
Glass Art Center
At the Glass Art Center, you can learn the intricacies of glass making by attending workshops, or buy glass beads and glass souvenirs for your loved ones.
Plan a relaxing day around Polonezkoy
Polonezkoy is a refreshing contrast to historic areas such as Sultanahmet Square. If your Istanbul trip includes both culture and nature, this village makes an easy and enjoyable addition. Come for breakfast, walks, cycling, or simply to slow down for a few hours in a greener setting.
FAQ about Polonezkoy
Is Polonezkoy worth visiting on a day trip from Istanbul?
Yes. Polonezkoy is close enough for a day trip and offers a quiet village atmosphere, nature walks, breakfast spots, and a different cultural history from central Istanbul. It is a good choice if you want greenery and fresh air without traveling far.
How do you get to Polonezkoy by public transport?
You can reach nearby Cumhuriyet Village by municipal buses, including line 137 and line 138 as mentioned above. Since routes and schedules can change, check official public transport sources before you go and plan the last part of the journey accordingly.
What can you do in Polonezkoy?
Popular things to do include having a village breakfast, walking in Polonezköy Nature Park, cycling, trying Polish and Turkish dishes, visiting the Zofia Rızı Memorial House, and seeing the Czestochowa Church of Virgin Mary.
What is Polonezkoy known for?
Polonezkoy is known for its Polish heritage, natural setting, village breakfasts, and relaxed atmosphere near Istanbul. It is also associated with Turkey-Poland friendship and is one of the city’s best-known green escape points.
When is the Polonezkoy Cherry Festival held?
The Polonezköy Cherry Festival takes place in June. It is known for its cheerful atmosphere and may include concerts, folk dance performances, and exhibitions, making it one of the liveliest times to visit the village.
