Discover the Top Day Trips from Istanbul
With a rich cultural tapestry and endless attractions, it’s virtually impossible to get bored in Istanbul. However, there are numerous beautiful destinations just beyond the city limits that allow you to escape the hustle and bustle, relax by the coast, and explore charming towns. Therefore, it’s worthwhile to consider these top day trips from Istanbul.
1. Princes’ Islands
Travel time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Take a scenic ferry ride to the Princes’ Islands, known as
Adalar in Turkish. This captivating destination features historic mansions, scenic views, small beaches, and waterfront seafood restaurants, all wrapped in a relaxed seaside vibe. The largest island, Büyükaada, is popular for its hilltop Church and Monastery of St. George, adorned with Greek Orthodox iconography and offering panoramic vistas. Neighboring Heybeliada is characterized by lush pine groves. Notably, no cars are allowed on these islands, encouraging visitors to walk or rent a bike to explore the serene streets.
While many seaside cafes and fish restaurants populate the harbor area, Kalpazankaya on Burgazada boasts a sublime setting with better-than-average meze and seafood.
How to get there: Şehir Hatları ferries depart from Kabataş to the Princes’ Islands year-round. The trip takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, though summer weekends are particularly busy, so travel during the week if possible.
2. Polonezköy
Travel time: 1 hour
Nestled in a beautifully wooded area, Polonezköy was founded by Polish emigrants in the mid-1800s. It retains a small Polish-speaking population. Visitors often enjoy brunch or a barbecue picnic at the village’s numerous restaurants. The village features local Polish specialities as well as Turkish dishes, providing a unique blend of cuisine. A leisurely stroll along the woodsy walking path (yürüyüş parkuru) is recommended for a fulfilling experience.
How to get there: A one-hour drive from central Istanbul takes you to Polonezköy. Public transport options include taking a taxi from Kavacık, which takes approximately 20 minutes.
3. Kilyos
Travel time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
The Black Sea coastal village of Kilyos is popular for its fine stretches of sand that draw city crowds during summer weekends. Visitors can enjoy fish restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops overlooking the main beach. While the public beach might not always be clean, numerous beach clubs charge a daily fee, providing sun loungers, umbrellas, and lively evening DJ parties.
How to get there: The 151 bus runs from Hacıosman metro station to Kilyos every 30 minutes. If you prefer to take a bus to Sarıyer, you can catch a dolmuş to Kilyos afterwards. Total travel time is approximately 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
4. Thrace Vineyard Route
Travel time: 3 to 4 hours
Explore the ancient wine-growing region of Thrace, where modern Turkish winemakers keep the tradition alive. The Thrace Vineyard Route includes boutique vineyards that offer tours, tastings, and exquisite dining options, showcasing both the region’s wines and its scenic landscapes.
How to get there: The main wineries are located near Tekirdağ, Şarköy, Kırklareli, and Gelibolu, each within a three- to four-hour drive from Istanbul.
5. Şile and Ağva
Travel time: 3 hours
The coastal towns of Şile and Ağva provide a low-key escape along the Black Sea coast. Şile is renowned for its distinctive 19th-century striped lighthouse and inviting beaches, while Ağva is known for its picturesque rivers where visitors can canoe or fish. Nature surrounds both towns, with hiking trails and waterfalls waiting to be discovered.
How to get there: Take a local ferry to Üsküdar, then catch the 139 bus to Şile or the 139A to Ağva. It takes about three hours from Istanbul.
6. Rumelifeneri and Garipçe
Travel time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
The quaint fishing village of Rumelifeneri marks the northernmost point of Istanbul, where the Bosphorus meets the Black Sea. The area is rich in history with a 17th-century fortress nearby. These villages are favorable spots for leisurely seaside meals and quiet beach access.
How to get there: The 40 bus runs from Taksim to Rumelifeneri, with stops in Garipçe. The one-way journey takes about an hour and a half.
7. Termal
Travel time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Known for its hot springs, Termal offers a relaxing getaway with waterfalls and hiking paths. The Turkish baths are the main attractions, providing a serene experience for visitors. Nearby Yalova also boasts beautiful natural sites worth visiting.
How to get there: Ferries run daily from Istanbul to Yalova, then take a taxi or minibus to Termal, completing the journey in around 1.5 hours.
8. Yeşilköy and Florya
Travel time: 1 hour
Florya offers cultural insights with the Atatürk Marine Mansion serving as a museum. Nearby, Yeşilköy features charming streets, historic homes, and a quaint harbor. A long waterfront promenade connects both areas, ideal for family outings, picnics, and leisurely strolls.
How to get there: Use the metro from Taksim to Yenikapı, then transfer to the Marmaray rail line to access Yeşilköy and Florya in less than an hour.
9. Edirne
Travel time: 3 hours
The historical city of Edirne, once the capital of the Ottoman Empire, features magnificent architecture, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Selimiye Mosque. The city’s rich cultural history and vibrant markets make it worth exploring.
How to get there: Frequent coach services operate from Istanbul’s main bus station to Edirne, with a travel time of approximately three hours.
10. Belgrad Forest
Travel time: 1 hour
The expansive Belgrad Forest is a favorite among walkers, runners, and picnickers looking to escape the city. It offers numerous trails, Ottoman dams, and picnic areas while providing ample opportunities for nature lovers.
How to get there: Reach Belgrad Forest via metro to Hacıosman, then take the 42HM bus to the nearest settlement.
11. Anadolu Kavağı
Travel time: 2 hours
As the terminus of the Bosphorus tour, Anadolu Kavağı captivates visitors with its stunning views of waterfront palaces and nature. After arriving, explore the ruins of its castle or dine in its harbor-side fish restaurants.
How to get there: Daily ferry tours from Eminönü take about two hours each way.
12. Bursa
Travel time: 2 hours
Bursa, Turkey’s fourth-largest city, is notable for its rich history as the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. Visitors can enjoy its thermal baths, historic mosques, and stunning natural surroundings, making it a top destination for culture and relaxation.
How to get there: Ferries provide quick access from Istanbul to Mudanya, followed by a short trip to central Bursa.
