Day Trips from Istanbul: The 20 Most Popular Nature Routes

What if we told you that you don’t need to travel far to escape Istanbul’s fast-paced rhythm and reconnect with nature? That’s right; just a couple of hours from the city lie some of the region’s most beautiful natural wonders. How about discovering 20 popular routes we’ve selected for you?

1. Polonezköy Nature Park (Beykoz)

Polonezköy Nature Park in Beykoz is one of the top escapes for walking among lush forests, cycling, and enjoying family picnics. Founded by Polish immigrants in the 1800s, this charming village today attracts both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Its orchards and village-style breakfast spots make Polonezköy even more enjoyable, while the wide variety of barbecue places makes it especially appealing for families and groups of friends.

2. Belgrad Forest (Sarıyer)

Imagine a place that’s both close to the city center and peaceful with its natural beauty. That’s Belgrad Forest. With its 6-kilometer walking trail, pond, and scenic surroundings, it’s a favorite for nature enthusiasts. You’ll often see athletes jogging here in the morning and families having picnics.

If you want to take long walks in complete harmony with nature, we recommend going on weekdays and early hours to avoid the crowds.

3. Ağva (Şile)

Located between the Göksu and Yeşilçay rivers, Ağva literally means “between two streams,” and it’s one of Istanbul’s most romantic day-trip destinations. Rowboat tours along the river and long walks on the beach make it unforgettable. Without traveling too far, you suddenly find yourself embraced by nature and the sea. Canoe or boat rides, beach walks, and dinners at its famous fish restaurants are among Ağva’s highlights.

4. Şile Saklıgöl

Since Ağva and Şile can be visited on the same day, this is one of Istanbul’s sweetest surprises. Having breakfast or lunch at lakeside restaurants and visiting Saklıgöl, surrounded by greenery, are among Şile’s most relaxing experiences. Known for its quiet and calm, it’s especially popular among those seeking peace and nature photographers looking for unique shots.

5. Riva (Beykoz)

With its sea and sandy beach, Riva is among the favorite weekend spots in every season. In summer, you can swim; in winter, you can enjoy long walks along the shore with the sound of waves. Just outside the city, it’s one of the closest addresses to reconnect with the sea. Its seafood restaurants and cafés along the Black Sea coast add extra charm to day trips.

6. Anadolu Kavağı & Yoros Castle

At the point where the Bosphorus meets the Black Sea lies Anadolu Kavağı, one of the best places to admire Istanbul’s panoramic view. From Yoros Castle, the sight of the Bosphorus will make you fall in love with the city all over again.

The historic streets, fish restaurants, and seaside walks in Anadolu Kavağı make it an ideal destination for those who want to experience both history and nature in one trip.

7. Kilyos (Sarıyer)

Known as Istanbul’s gateway to the Black Sea, Kilyos is most famous in summer but also a great choice for autumn and winter walks by the beach.

Close to the city yet peaceful, Kilyos is always at the top of the list for those who want to breathe in the Black Sea’s unique atmosphere.

8. Atatürk Arboretum (Sarıyer)

Next up is Atatürk Arboretum, where you can see hundreds of plant and tree species from around the world. It’s like an open-air library for botany lovers, especially those who want to see rare species.

The arboretum is also known for its strict rules: no picnics, no cycling, and no pets allowed. While this may sound limiting at first, it’s precisely these rules that help preserve its biodiversity and tranquil atmosphere.

9. Garipçe Village (Sarıyer)

In contrast to Istanbul’s fast pace, time moves slowly in some places—Garipçe is one of them. Near Rumeli Feneri, this fishing village has preserved its authenticity. With its cobblestone streets, old houses, and humble seafood restaurants along the shore, Garipçe is perfect for a calm discovery away from the weekend crowds.

10. Ballıkayalar Nature Park (Gebze)

Well-known among trekking enthusiasts, Ballıkayalar is just an hour from Gebze. With its rocky valleys, streams, small waterfalls, and narrow trails, it’s one of the closest adrenaline-filled escapes from Istanbul. It’s also considered one of Turkiye’s top climbing spots.

11. Sapanca Lake

One of the best-known lakes in the Marmara region, Sapanca offers everything you need for a relaxing weekend. After breakfast, you can ride a bike along the lake or take a peaceful boat tour.

12. Maşukiye (Kartepe)

When people think of Maşukiye, the first things that come to mind are the breakfast places and riverside restaurants. But the name itself, meaning “the place of love,” already says a lot about its spirit.

With its greenery, waterfalls, and hiking trails leading to plateaus, Maşukiye is especially beloved by outdoor enthusiasts. In winter, it becomes a stopover on the way to the snow-covered scenery of Kartepe.

13. Burgazada (Princes’ Islands)

Just off Istanbul’s coast but miles away from the city’s noise, Burgazada is one of the most inspiring Princes’ Islands and a peaceful address for day trips. Since motor vehicles are not allowed, you’ll need to walk or bike to get around. Walking through pine forests toward Hristos Hill, you’ll witness the stunning view of the Marmara Sea. Literature lovers should not miss the Sait Faik Abasıyanık Museum, one of the island’s gems.

Burgazada’s beaches in summer and its unique autumn scenery make it a beloved retreat for those seeking a calm “island atmosphere.”

14. İğneada Flooded Forests (Kırklareli)

Hidden on the Black Sea coast of Thrace, the İğneada Flooded Forests are a natural wonder. Home to a rare flooded forest ecosystem, the region’s lakes, streams, and forests create a fairytale-like landscape. Perfect for hiking, birdwatching, camping, and photography, İğneada is well worth the longer journey from Istanbul thanks to its extraordinary ecosystem.

15. Erikli Plateau (Yalova)

Speaking of camping, Yalova’s Erikli Plateau is a great choice. Especially suitable for tent camping, it offers a peaceful getaway for those who want to immerse themselves in nature.

16. Yuvacık Dam & Aytepe (Kocaeli)

With its waterfalls and hiking trails, Yuvacık has become increasingly popular in recent years. Just 1.5 hours from Istanbul, even sitting by the stream and listening to the water is enough to feel refreshed.

17. Cumalıkızık Village (Bursa)

With its cobblestone streets and colorful houses, Cumalıkızık preserves its Ottoman village character and makes visitors feel like they’ve traveled back in time. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s also famous for its breakfasts and local products.

18. Mudanya & Trilye (Bursa)

If you’re in Bursa, a coastal walk is a must. Known for their historic Greek houses and olive groves, Mudanya and Trilye are as charming as many holiday towns. In fact, Trilye is often compared to Alaçatı.

19. Abant Lake (Bolu)

Perhaps a bit farther from Istanbul, Abant Lake is still doable as a day trip. Around the lake, you can enjoy walking, biking, or even horseback riding.

With snow in winter and lush greenery in summer, Abant is beautiful in all four seasons.

20. Yedigöller National Park (Bolu)

Yedigöller is one of Turkiye’s most unique national parks. Famous for its autumn scenery, it enchants visitors with its colors and lakes. For those who want to stay longer, there are camping areas available.