For those who want to spend time in touch with nature in Istanbul, many green areas can be explored without leaving the city. In this guide, we have prepared for those who want to escape from the chaos of the metropolis; you will discover the most beautiful green areas of Istanbul with hidden nature escape routes, hiking trails, botanical gardens, forests and islands. Inspiring tips about natural places to visit in Istanbul, nature parks, islands, forests and hidden paradises in the city await you in this content. So, where are the green areas in Istanbul? And where to enjoy nature in Istanbul? Let's explore together 👇
Top Nature Spots in Istanbul for Peaceful Walks and Green Getaways
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1. Baltalimanı Japanese Garden
For those who not only love nature but also have a refined interest in it, travelling to Japan during Sakura season is a big dream. However, you don't have to go all the way to Japan to experience the magic of a landscape adorned with cherry blossoms!
In 1972, the city of Shimonoseki in Japan and Istanbul were declared sister cities and 2003 was declared the ‘Year of the Turks’ in Japan. As a sign of this special bond, a Japanese Garden was established on an area of 6 thousand square metres on the Baltalimanı coast.
In the garden, Sakura trees, which have become the symbol of Japan, offer a mystical atmosphere accompanied by bridges, waterfalls and a pond in harmony with typical Japanese garden design.
Address: Emirgan Mah., Sakıp Sabancı Cd. No:76, 34470 Sarıyer/İstanbul
Contact Number: 0212 312 62 00
Source: Sarıyer Times
2. Belgrad Forest
Known as the ‘lungs of Istanbul’, Belgrad Forest is a favourite for those who want to escape the chaos of city life. Stretching between Maslak and Eyüp on the European Side, surrounded by the Bosphorus to the east and the Black Sea to the west, the forest was Istanbul's most important source of drinking water during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods.
Today, with its abundant rainfall, rich soil structure and diverse flora and fauna, it is a unique escape for those who long for nature. The forest, which takes on a fascinating atmosphere with its yellowing leaves, especially in autumn, responds to every need from morning exercises to picnics with its 6.5-kilometre hiking trail.
3. Atatürk Arboretum
Located near the Belgrade Forest, Atatürk Arboretum is an open-air museum for nature enthusiasts. The arboretum, which hosts more than 1500 plant species on an area of approximately 345 hectares, is also home to Turkey's first nursery.
This special area, which has certain rules for conservation purposes, offers an experience full of discovery for botanical enthusiasts with exotic species such as Peruka Bush, Mammoth Tree, Macedonian Oak and Florida Red Dogwood.
Address: Istanbul University, Bahçeköy Kemer, Faculty of Forestry, 34450 Sarıyer/İstanbul
Contact Number: 0212 226 19 29
Source: Biz Evde Yokuz
4. Buyukada
Buyukada, the largest of the Prince Islands and formerly known by its Greek name Prinkipos, is one of the most peaceful corners of Istanbul. The view of the mansions surrounded by trees as you approach by ferry fills you with serenity. The first thing you should do as soon as you set foot on the island is to rent a bicycle!
Adorned with streets full of pine trees, historical mansions, bays, hills and cultural buildings, the island offers a journey intertwined with history with important stops such as Aya Yorgi Church, Greek Orphanage, Reşat Nuri Güntekin's house, Clock Tower, Trotsky's House and Adalar Museum.
5. Heybeliada
Heybeliada, the small but green brother of Buyukada, attracts attention with its calmness. This island, which you can reach with a small ferry journey, is a place where nature and peace embrace. The most enjoyable way of travelling around the island is by bicycle!
Among the places to visit are İsmet İnönü House Museum, Hüseyin Rahmi Gürpınar Museum, Aya Yorgi Monastery, Heybeliada Seminary, Beth Yaakov Synagogue and Aya Nikola Church. The fact that Heybeliada is an old Greek settlement increases its cultural richness even more.
6. Burgazada
The subject of Evliya Çelebi's Travelogue and Sait Faik Abasıyanık's stories, Burgazada is the third largest of the Prince Islands. A ferry ride away from the noise of Istanbul, this island, where nature and literature are intertwined, stands out with its peaceful atmosphere and cultural texture.
Among the places to visit are natural and historical beauties such as Sait Faik Museum, Hristos Monastery, Aya Yani Church, Madam Marta Bay, Bayrak Hill and Kalpazankaya. In addition, Turkey's first private zoo and Burgaz Island Sanatorium, established in 1928, are also located within the borders of the island.
7. Kemerburgaz Urban Forest
Kemerburgaz Urban Forest, which is about twice the size of Belgrade Forest and covers more than 5 million square metres, is a paradise of nature, sports and activities for Istanbulites. The forest hosts more than 8000 trees and thousands of bushes, and offers numerous options such as a scout camping area, pony stable, observation tower, sports fields, children's clubs and an organic product market.
The Maglova Aqueduct, which can be reached on foot through the forest borders, is among the masterpieces of Mimar Sinan. With its proximity to Göktürk and Kemerburgaz, it is one of the first stops for urbanites to breathe.
Source: kemerburgazkentormani.ist
8. Atatürk Urban Forest
Atatürk Urban Forest, which came to life with the transformation of Hacıosman Grove in Sarıyer, is the new natural paradise of the city with its hiking trails planned to reach 12 kilometres. The forest, which attracts attention with its 2 ponds and 10 different tree species, has a rich ecosystem that hosts many bird species as well as trees such as oak, pine, and poplar.
Atatürk Urban Forest appeals to visitors of all ages thanks to its walking and jogging routes with different levels of difficulty, including easy, medium and difficult.
Source: Tripadvisor
9. Polonezköy Hiking Trail
Polonezköy Nature Park, the largest nature park in Istanbul, offers a rich area in terms of both plant and animal diversity with an area of approximately 3000 hectares. Many wildlife species, from foxes to squirrels, goldfinches to owls, can be observed here.
The park, which is an ideal environment for cycling, hiking and camping activities, is also remarkable for its cultural discovery points such as Polonezköy Culture House, Tree Sculpture Exhibition, Czestochova Virgin Mary Church and Glass Art Centre.
10. Nezahat Gökyiğit Botanical Garden
A hidden treasure of nature in the heart of Ataşehir, in an area surrounded by motorways: Nezahat Gökyiğit Botanical Garden. Established on 8 islands on an area of 32 hectares, this garden was created in 1995 by Ali Nihat Gökyiğit in memory of his wife Nezahat Gökyiğit.
With its rich plant collections, herbarium, library and conservation projects, this garden is not only an escape point but also a scientific and educational centre.
Source: Tripadvisor
11. Göztepe 60th Year Park
Göztepe 60th Year Park, which draws attention with its location in Kadıköy, close to Bağdat Street and the coastline, is one of the rare areas where you can breathe in the centre of the city but away from the noise. The botanical garden, decorated with colourful flowers, offers picturesque views, especially in spring.
This park, which appeals to visitors of all ages thanks to its walking paths, sports fields, children's playgrounds, picnic areas and resting benches, is an ideal route for those who want to spend time in touch with nature.
Source: Tripadvisor
