Top Places to Visit in Istanbul in 4 Days: A Perfect Travel Itinerary

Istanbul is a unique metropolis that fascinates its visitors with its natural beauties as well as its historical treasures. The ideal time to explore this busy and fascinating city and experience its unique beauties is during the holidays, when the megacity is relatively quieter! As locals usually travel to other parts of the country to visit their relatives. Natural wonders such as Şile, Ağva, and Belgrade Forest are among the great options to visit. So, what to do and where to go in Istanbul during the holidays?

Here is a list of places to explore in Istanbul...👇

If you want to get away from the crowds of Istanbul on holidays and enjoy a peaceful and quiet vacation in the heart of nature, there are great options for you! Görseli — Istanbul is a city that has been home to many different civilisations and bears the traces of many different cultures throughout history. This diversity manifests itself in every corner, district, village and island of the city. If you wish to explore these unique places, we have a series of suggestions for you.
You can consider visiting these places on your trip, allowing you to spend a vacation in touch with nature and turn your holiday into an unforgettable experience. 👇

1. Şile Görseli — Located on the Black Sea coast, this charming district of Istanbul is a favorite of tourists with its long sandy beaches and clean air. On Eid al-Adha, you can take a walk by the sea in Şile and visit the historical Şile Lighthouse.
Şile is also ideal for nature walks and picnics. Do not leave this place without seeing Şile Castle and wandering the streets.

2. Ağva

This fascinating town between Yeşilçay and Göksu rivers has been a transit point for many civilizations such as the Hittites, Phrygians, Romans and Ottomans throughout history. The neighborhood where you can spend a peaceful holiday in nature is connected to Şile.

In Ağva, you can go canoeing by the river, rent a bicycle or take a quiet boat trip. By the way, Agva is also known as a romantic getaway.

3. Belgrade Forest

This large forested area inside Istanbul is the perfect place for those who want to be in touch with nature. It is at the eastern end of the Çatalca Peninsula on the European side of the city.

You can hike in the Belgrade Forest, have a picnic enjoying the fresh air or just read a book in silence. The ponds and fresh air in the forest will be a great choice to get away from the chaos of the city.

4. Polonezköy

Located in the Beykoz district of Istanbul, this small village is famous for its natural beauty and delicious food.

Founded in 1842, you can take nature walks in Polonezköy, buy organic products and enjoy delicious meals at local restaurants.

5. Büyükada

Buyukada, the largest island in Istanbul! To get away from the traffic, noise and chaos, you should visit this unique island where there are no motorized vehicles.

You can walk around the streets of the island by bicycle and take a walk to Hagia Yorgi Church and Monastery. Watching the view of Istanbul and the Marmara Sea from the top of the island will offer you an unforgettable experience.

6. Kilyos

This neighborhood on Istanbul's Black Sea coast is known for its beautiful beaches and seaside restaurants. Kilyos, in the Sarıyer district of the megacity, is perfect for sunbathing, swimming and water sports.

It will be an ideal option for those who want to enjoy the sun even if you do not go to the sea during the Bayram holiday.

7. Garipçe Village

Our next address is this small fishing village in Sarıyer! After visiting Garipçe Castle, located at the point where the Bosphorus meets the Black Sea, you can enjoy fresh seafood at the fish restaurants in the village. We can say that Garipçe Village is a great choice for those who want to spend a quiet holiday day.

8. Heybeliada

Located among the Prince Islands of Istanbul, Heybeliada is the second largest island in the city! You can take a bike tour and breathe in the air of nature and history.

Don't forget to visit Heybeliada Naval High School, Bet Yaakov Synagogue, Hagia Triada Monastery and Heybeliada Sanatorium.

9. Buyukcekmece Bridge and Waterfront

Built by Mimar Sinan, this historical bridge and its surroundings can be a quiet and peaceful escape for the holidays.

Ideal for those who want to spend a day in touch with nature, Buyukcekmece Bridge and Waterfront was built between 1566 and 1567 at the point where Buyukcekmece Lake meets the Marmara Sea.

10. Gülhane Park

You should definitely visit the historical park located in Eminönü district of Fatih, the central district of Istanbul.

Gülhane Park, located between the Regimental Pavilion, Topkapi Palace and Sarayburnu, welcomes its visitors with its colourful flowers and historical trees.

11. Yoros Castle

Yoros Castle, an Eastern Roman castle on the ridges of Anadolukavağı in Istanbul, has a position controlling the Black Sea entrance of the Bosphorus.

Also known as 'Anadolukavağı Castle' or 'Genoese Castle', the name of the castle is believed to come from Hieron, which means “holy place”. Although the castle is thought to be a structure belonging to the Genoese, this unique castle, which will fascinate you with its view, is actually a Byzantine structure.

12. Aydos Forest

Our last stop is Aydos Forest on the Asian side of Istanbul! Located in the northernmost part of the Kartal district of the city, the forest is worth seeing with its recreation areas, lake and Aydos Hill, which is located in the opposite position of Aydos Forest Lake.

The hill with ruins from the Byzantine Period has a height of 537 meters. Get ready to go up a bit.