When you’d rather be outside than in a metropolis, you can choose from a wide variety of parks and trails. We have compiled a list of the top destinations near Istanbul that provide hiking and walking routes, so you can get your sweat on and explore the great outdoors.You will not find a city like Istanbul anywhere else on Earth. The Bosphorus divides it in half, and it shares boundaries with the Marmara Sea and the Black Sea as well as the European and Asian continents. With a population of over 20 million, Istanbul is widely recognized as one of the most populous cities in the world. Because of this, it may be challenging to live in Istanbul and yet feel connected to nature. There aren’t a ton of possibilities for long hiking and trekking routes, though. This post will take you on a hike near Istanbul along four distinct pathways. They are perfect for a genuine hiking trip and are just a two-hour drive away.
Belgrad Forest Nature Parks
On the European side of Istanbul, at Belgrad Forest, you’ll find the city’s biggest forest, which spans around 5,500 hectares. There might be a broad range of flora and fauna in the woods, including trees, fungus, birds, and other animals. Additionally, there are nine parks that are perfect for hiking and trekking, complete with paths and informative information. Parks inside the Belgrade Forest include Ayvatbendi, Bendler, Fatih Cesmesi, Irmak, Kirazlibent, Falih Rifki Atay, Komurcubent, Mehmet Akif Ersoy, and Neset Suyu.Even during the Ottoman era, the city relied heavily on water from the Belgrad Forest. To accommodate its citizens, Istanbul’s government set up an irrigation system about this time. As you trek through Belgrad Forest, you will most certainly encounter these systems that are a century old. Sariyer is a district in Istanbul around 30 kilometers from Taksim or Sultanahmet, where you can find the Belgrade Forest and its environmental parks.
Ballikayalar Nature Park
Situated next to Gebze and just a short distance from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport, Ballikayalar Nature Park is like a little paradise. Aside from everything else a hiker may desire on a trail, it features a verdant canyon, little lakes, waterfalls, and streams. The park also features a walking route. The park’s many lakes have attracted a wide variety of bird species. As a result, the park is now a paradise for avian enthusiasts in addition to hikers.The Ballikayalar Nature Park is an unusual oasis of greenery right next to the Gebze Industrial Zone, one of Turkey’s most important industrial areas. The entrance cost to Ballikayalar Nature Park is 10 Turkish Lira, and it is located about 70 kilometers from the center of Istanbul.
Binkilic Village and Yildiz Mountains
Best Places For Hiking in Istanbul
Binkilic is a tiny hamlet located 120 kilometers northwest of Istanbul. The hamlet also marks the start of the Yazd Mountain Range (also known as the Strandzha Mountain Range), which extends westward. Starting one kilometer north of the town, at the Binkilic Castle, you may begin your journey. The ruins of this fortification are thought to date from the Byzantine period in the 6th century CE. While the view from the castle is spectacular, the trek through the Yildiz Mountains is much more so, with the scents of pine, alder and oak trees filling the air. It’s hard to believe you’re still in Istanbul when you see the beauty of Binkilic and its surroundings.
Evliya Celebi Way
This 600-kilometer walk from Istanbul to Hersek is not for day hikers (though you’re not obligated to complete it all at once). However, it is for people who wish to see as much of Turkey’s beauty and history as possible. The trek follows the same path that Evliya Celebi, a famous Ottoman writer and explorer, did in the 17th century, passing through various cities and natural wonders, providing a genuine Turkish experience that you won’t get at the resorts. Of course, you may travel the journey on horseback if you want to ride rather than trek.
Princes’ Islands
Take the short boat journey from Istanbul to the Princes’ Islands, and you’ll be in a spot so beautiful you’ll never want to leave. Princes’ Islands, which are made up of nine islands in total, four of them is open to public for visit. While the towns’ architecture is beautiful, the islands’ true worth is shown in the acres of unspoiled forest. So pack your hiking boots, leave your worries at home, and be ready to be amazed by some of Turkey’s most stunning landscapes.
Sultan’s Trail
Sultan’s Trail, which runs between Eyup Sultan and Suleymaniye, is a beautiful route to see medieval Istanbul. It should take more than 4 hours to complete for most hikers, making it suitable for various activities. Although the route is relatively short (at least the section in Istanbul—the trail itself goes all the way to Vienna), there are plenty of attractions along the way. The old city wall, Kariye Yavuz Mosque, Jerrahi Sufi Shrine and Fatih Mosque should all be on your itinerary.
Best Places for Trekking in Istanbul
Polonezkoy Nature Park
Polonezkoy Nature Park is Istanbul’s very first biggest nature park, with a total area of 7,420 acres. Whatever type of outdoor pleasure you’re looking for, you won’t be bored. Camping, trekking, orienteering and (due to its good range of eateries and numerous picnic sites) dining are all available in the park.
Kilimli Track
Kilimli Parkuru has thousands of supporters on TripAdvisor. It’s easy to see why based on some of the reviews. “It’s a little slice of heaven. It is well worth the 3-hour journey from Istanbul. This is something I would suggest to hikers. One writes, “Safe and well-marked trail,” while another adds, “Easy walk with stunning views.” Kilimli is only a short drive away from Agva. Park in the restaurant parking lot, and the stroll begins only a few meters away. On a well-marked trail with no difficult parts, the walk to the lighthouse and back is around 6 kilometers. The views of the cliffs and bays are breathtaking. It is also possible to take the small boat over to the stairs near the lighthouse, although this service is not always available.”
IBB Halic Nedim Park
IBB Halic Nedim Park is one of Istanbul’s most popular parks, with its stunning sea vistas, acres of beautiful parkland, and various recreational options. The hiking routes are suitable for people of all ages and abilities but bring sunscreen.
The Final Word
Istanbul is recognized for its culture, history, gastronomy and cosmopolitan atmosphere, but it is also rich in natural beauty. There are plenty of parks and paths to explore if you prefer the outdoors to the city. So put your hiking boots on and prepare to break a sweat with the mentioned list of the finest trekking spots in Istanbul.
stanbul
