For those who want to get away from the stress of city life in Istanbul and spend the weekend alone with nature, there are many alternatives worth visiting close to Istanbul that could offer a piece of mind for those in need. From İğneada to Polonezköy, Sapanca to Büyükada, these routes, where you can plan both day trips and overnight holidays, stand out with their natural textures, historical buildings, culinary stops and peaceful atmospheres. If you are thinking ‘Where to go for the weekend around Istanbul?’, this guide is for you!
Weekend Getaways Near Istanbul: Top Escapes Close to the City
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1. İğneada
Looking for a weekend getaway near Istanbul? Our first recommendation is İğneada. This area boasts rare longoz forests, which are formed by water seeping into the forests and are found in only four regions worldwide- one of which is in Kırklareli. About three hours from Istanbul, İğneada offers stunning natural scenery and accommodations that blend seamlessly with nature. For a peaceful start to your day surrounded by fresh air and lush greenery, İğneada is a hidden paradise.
Source: Biz Evde Yokuz
2. Polonezköy
Polonezköy, which is connected to Beykoz district of Istanbul, attracts visitors with its history and nature. If you wish, you can stay in boutique hotels intertwined with nature, or you can rent a house and spend a comfortable weekend. You can start your tour from Polonezköy Culture House and discover the traces of the culture of Poland, from which the village takes its name. The tree sculptures in front of the Culture House are also very impressive.
Later in the day, you can relax in the picnic areas and visit the Church of Virgin Mary, which was rebuilt in 1914 and used as the headquarters of the Turkish Army during World War I. There are also many activities such as trekking, cycling tours and hiking for those interested in nature sports.
Source: Wikiloc
3. Tekirdağ
Tekirdağ, one of the most popular cities of the Marmara Region and full of historical richness, is only two hours away from Istanbul. It attracts sea lovers with its beaches in summer and adrenaline enthusiasts with paragliding opportunities on the slopes of Ganos Mountain.
You should definitely visit Tekirdağ Archaeology and Ethnography Museum, which is open all seasons; in this museum, you can discover many artefacts that shed light on the history of the region. Namik Kemal's house, where he lived for a period and is now a museum, will take you to the depths of history. One of the most beautiful addresses for wine tasting enthusiasts: Barbaros Vineyard House.
4. Sapanca
Sapanca, one of Istanbul's favourite weekend getaway spots, promises peaceful moments with its lake and surrounding nature. The area around Sapanca Lake is equipped with walking, jogging and cycling tracks. If you wish, you can rent a bicycle and take a pleasant tour around the lake, or rent a rowboat and take a quiet cruise on the lake.
Kırkpınar, one of the first settlements established by Circassians, offers magnificent views with its waterfalls and streams. In winter, you can enjoy winter sports in Kartepe and discover every shade of green in Maşukiye. In Maşukiye, which offers unique frames for photography lovers, you can join an ATV tour or go exploring by horse riding. For a delicious meal, Doğan Anapa's restaurant Anapa offers an unforgettable experience - reservation is a must!
5. Büyükada
Büyükada, which is one of the first places to go with the family at the weekend in Istanbul, is very easy to reach by ferry from Kadıköy, Bostancı and Kabataş. After a pleasant journey of about 1-1.5 hours, you are greeted by a warm island air and historical textures. The most enjoyable way to travel around the island is to rent a bicycle.
The three-storey house with pink mouldings is Reşat Nuri Güntekin's house - although it is not possible to go inside, it is a must to take a photo in front of it. In addition, Aya Yorgi Church is one of the most remarkable structures of the island. To reach its summit, you have to climb a 25-minute slope that is closed to all vehicles, including bicycles. Enjoyable moments await you in Büyükada, which is also full of picnic areas, restaurants and cafes.
6. Burgazada
Burgazada, the third largest island of the Princes' Islands, is a peaceful escape that you can reach in about an hour by ferry. Especially for literature lovers, the museum house of short story writer Sait Faik Abasıyanık is a great attraction. While discovering clues about the author's life, there is also a special corner where you can write a letter to him.
Aya Yani Church, which is open on Sundays, and Madam Martha Bay, where you can swim in warm weather, are a must-see. You can reach the bay by walking about 1.5 km to the right from the pier. You can rent a bicycle on the island for a more enjoyable trip.
7. Kınalıada
Kınalıada, the smallest and closest of the Prince Islands to Istanbul, has a charming atmosphere with its redbuds and white wooden houses. You can walk around the whole island in only 30 minutes. If you are looking for calmness and tranquillity, Kınalıada should definitely be your choice.
Panayia Church in the east of the island and Surp Krikor Lusovaric Armenian Church along the coast attract attention with their historical richness. If you want to watch the view, Çınar Hill, Teşrifiye Hill and Manastır Hill are the most ideal spots.
8. Bolu - Abant
Abant, which you can reach with a three-hour car journey from Istanbul, is indispensable for nature lovers. A peaceful weekend awaits you with nature walks, camping areas and picnic spots around Lake Abant. There are also hotels where you can enjoy the view by the fireplace.
Fishing activities are organised on certain days for those interested in angling. You should also add rich routes such as Yedigöller National Park, Seben Rock Houses, Örmeci and Sinekli Plateaus and Abant Natural Life Museum to your programme. For adrenaline lovers, paragliding is also available in Çepni Plateau.
9. Şile
Only 45 minutes away from Istanbul, Şile is a perfect option for weekend getaways with its natural beauties and clean air. While there are many hotels and hostels in the region, there are also various options such as trekking, paintball, and ATV for those looking for nature activities.
You should definitely see historical buildings such as Şile Castle and Şile Lighthouse, Turkey's largest lighthouse. In spring and summer, Akçakese Village offers a calm and clean sea pleasure. For those interested in motor sports, Ulupelit Rally Parkuru is an address not to be forgotten.
10. Ağva
Ağva, which is connected to Şile district, is a town intertwined with nature, located between Göksu and Yeşilçay streams. Far from the chaos of Istanbul, this region, which you can reach within two hours, offers many activities such as pedal biking, boat tours and hiking.
It is quite enjoyable to take a boat ride on the Göksu River and explore the surrounding bays. In addition, historical buildings such as Gelin Kaya, known as the Weeping Rock, and Ocaklı Castle, built by the Genoese, are also worth seeing.
11. Eskişehir
Eskişehir, which is only three hours away by train, is one of the most ideal routes for the weekend. Thanks to the Porsuk River, it is very pleasant to walk and cycle around the city. With its delicious restaurants, lively social life and historical sites, it is an escape point suitable for all seasons. We recommend spending at least two days in Eskişehir.
12. Silivri
Silivri, located in the west of Istanbul, is a great choice for those looking for a peaceful getaway with its seaside location and nature. Easily accessible via the D-100 Motorway, you can visit the historical Silivri Castle and cool off on the beaches.
Our recommendation for those looking for a gastronomic experience: The Barn Restaurant inside Grandma's Wonderland Hotel. In Chef Buğra Özdemir's sustainable kitchen, you can experience an unforgettable feast of flavour with dishes prepared with local ingredients and wines of their own production.
