Top Day Trips from Istanbul: Islands, Villages & Nature

After experiencing Istanbul's amazing historic and cultural sites, day trips from Istanbul may be the best option to benefit from a short break from busy Istanbul. If you want to spend a calm day by the sea, take strolls in green natural sites or see historic and cultural settlements, it's possible to enjoy all that in Istanbul. Here is the list of the best day trips from Istanbul and the funnest sites to go with friends or family.

Why Take Day Trips from Istanbul?

The cultural and historic richness of Istanbul is matched only by the natural scenery and tranquil getaway spots that lie just outside of the city. After you spend a few days within the city, you can de-stress with day excursions from Istanbul, relax and learn about additional places.

It's the ultimate opportunity to leave the crowds in Istanbul behind, unwind surrounded by nature or enjoy a tranquil day by the coast. Day trips from Istanbul for families allow you to organize a fun-filled day of relaxation for all.

Just outside the city, there are quaint little villages with old markets, golden sand beaches at seaside towns, and national forests that are very different from city life. Your Istanbul itinerary gains a different perspective with each trip: renting a bike under the shade of centuries-old trees in Belgrade Forest, savoring fresh seafood in Black Sea villages or boarding the tranquil ferries to the Princes' Islands. These day trips enrich your stay in the city by providing a balance between culture, nature, and relaxation.

Best Island Day Trips from Istanbul

One of the best activities for individuals seeking escape from the crowds of Istanbul is going on an Istanbul day trip to the city's islands. Specifically in the summer for individuals seeking to breathe in fresh air and enjoy a quiet day gazing into the sea breeze, going for an Istanbul islands day trip is an enjoyable and relaxing alternative. Accessible from the city center easily, these itineraries represent one of the best day trips from Istanbul for individuals seeking to enjoy a day of escape. Because of their historic texture, nature, and sea vistas, the islands represent enjoyable and family-friendly day trips from Istanbul for families and groups of friends.

Princes’ Islands – Büyükada and Heybeliada highlights

When planning to go for day trips from Istanbul to Princes Islands, the first two destinations that come into consideration are Büyükada and Heybeliada. Those islands leave it up to anyone to effortlessly trade the crowds of Istanbul for another world.

For those planning Istanbul islands day trip, Büyükada is famous for its flower-lined roads, ancient mansions, and horseless carriages. Here one can hire a bike and cycle through the island or up to the Church of St. George to see it from another angle.

Heybeliada is quieter in its nature. It has a blend of cultural and natural charm with its green shores, secluded coves, and historic atmosphere. It has tiny beaches for swimming as well. Both of these islands can be seen through a day out, giving you calm hours and the contrasting side of Istanbul.

Beach getaways for summer day trips

If you wish to get away from Istanbul for a bit during the summer, the island beaches are a great option too. Büyükada and Heybeliada are the two islands that welcome those who wish to escape the city bustle and enjoy the sea with their stunning shores. The beaches and remote beaches on the islands are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. If you're traveling to Istanbul with your family and kids, you may utilize these peaceful and safe coves as family friendly day trips from Istanbul. You can spend a peaceful day in these natural hideaways very close to Istanbul while touring the island by bike or walking on the beach.

Ferry schedules and how to reach the islands

You can reach the Princes' Islands from Istanbul by ferry, enjoying spectacular views along the way. If you're traveling from the European side, you can take ferries departing from the Eminönü and Beşiktaş piers; from the Asian side, you can take ferries departing from Bostancı and Maltepe.

The ferry ride takes about half an hour from the Asian side and 1-1.5 hours from the European side. Ferries run regularly from early morning until late at night. However, it's advisable to check the current ferry schedule for the summer and winter seasons.

Setting off early in the morning helps you find a more peaceful atmosphere when you arrive at the islands and allows you to make the most of your day. You can enjoy the view of the Bosphorus along the way and see the silhouette of Istanbul from different angles. Thus, the travel part of your day trips from Istanbul to the Princes' Islands becomes a separate experience.

Charming Villages Near Istanbul

There are many charming villages waiting to be discovered around Istanbul. Just a short distance from the city, you should definitely add these places to your Istanbul travel plans to spend time immersed in history and nature.

Şile and Ağva – Black Sea coastal escapes

Şile and Ağva are famous for their natural beauty and calm atmosphere located at the Black Sea coast. These places are very suitable locations for tourism during hot summer days with their long coast, clear sea, and footpaths. Restaurants and cafes at nearby sites offer fresh seafood alongside local delicacies. Among Black Sea villages near Istanbul, these are wonderful spots.

Polonezköy – A village with European roots

Polonezköy founded by Polish immigrants in the 19th century, this village stands out with its European-inspired architecture and green nature. In Polonezköy, you can go for walks, join bike tours, and shop at small markets selling local products. You can add this village to your itinerary to experience a different culture just a short trip from the city.

Traditional markets and local food experiences

As you move through these villages you can see not only natural beauty but local life and culture as well. The shops are filled with locally produced merchandise and food stands. Organic cheeses, fresh bread, and fresh vegetables of the season particularly bring little surprises to brighten up your day.

Nature & Outdoor Adventures Close to Istanbul

If you want to escape Istanbul's bustling city life and reconnect with nature, there are countless options in the surrounding area. You can hike through lush forests, spend pleasant hours by the lake or capture stunning views on camera. Here are the most popular nature trips from Istanbul:

Belgrad Forest – Hiking and cycling routes

Located in Sarıyer on the European side of Istanbul, Belgrad Forest is one of the closest nature getaways of the city. It is particularly popular on weekend mornings for nature walks and with its cycling trails. The 6 km walking trail, with its clean air and peaceful atmosphere around the lake, is ideal for those who want to exercise and connect with nature.

Sapanca Lake and Maşukiye – Relaxing lakeside getaway

Sapanca offers visitors a peaceful atmosphere with its lush green nature, especially in spring and summer. Cafes and walking paths along the lakefront await you for an enjoyable experience. You can enjoy breakfast with a lake view, rent a bike or go canoeing. During your Sapanca trip, you can also visit Maşukiye, famous for its waterfalls, trout restaurants and green valleys, take part in nature walks and enjoy local delicacies. If you want to get away from the city for a short break and relax, a Sapanca and Maşukiye day trip from Istanbul could be one of the most popular options.

Yedigöller National Park – Perfect for nature lovers

Although it's a slightly longer journey from Istanbul for nature lovers, Yedigöller National Park is definitely worth seeing. The park located in Bolu can be reached in about 3 hours. Offering different beauty in every season, Yedigöller allows you to observe colorful leaves in autumn, white snow cover in winter, and nature coming to life in spring. With its hiking trails, camping areas, and photo spots, it's a favorite among nature lovers. Especially in autumn you can plan your Yedigöller tour from Istanbul to witness the magnificent scenery of nature and capture unique photos.

Bursa & Uludağ – A natural and cultural trip

This full-day tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Istanbul and continues with a ferry ride across the Marmara Sea. You'll begin by exploring the rich Ottoman architecture of Bursa, including the Green Mosque. After a short cultural tour you can enjoy lunch on the Bursa Uludağ Mountains and embark on a mountain adventure with optional activities such as skiing or ATV safari. You can explore Bursa's markets and purchase local delicacies such as chestnuts and Turkish delight before returning to Istanbul. At the end of the tour you'll board the ferry again and return to Istanbul, admiring the views of the ​Marmara Sea.

Planning Your Day Trips from Istanbul

After exploring Istanbul, it's quite easy to plan trips to see the surrounding beauty. In the summer you can visit the islands, take a short weekend trip to Black Sea villages or head to popular destinations like Belgrad Forest, Sapanca, and Yedigöller to connect with nature. These nature trips from Istanbul can help you relax away from the city's bustle.

With easy access to villas near Istanbul, you can comfortably plan day trips with your friends or family. Choosing the right route can make your Istanbul vacation experience much more unique.

At Citio, we help you to discover Istanbul beyond its borders. From peaceful islands to charming Black Sea villages and refreshing nature walks, we lead you to experience day escapes that are truly unique. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends or as a family, our trips are designed to match every mood and style. Leave the throngs behind and enjoy an amazing escape. Get in touch with us and make your Istanbul trip unforgettable!