Istanbul holiday at sea. Magnificent beaches. Istanbul in summer: independent holidays, Istanbul beaches, what to do Is there a sea in Istanbul

Istanbul is simply a huge city, so there will be few people on the beaches here, but simply a lot, especially this trend is observed on weekends. And the sea near Istanbul is not particularly clean. The huge number of ships in the Sea of ​​Marmara and the Bosphorus does not inspire much optimism either. If you still want to swim in the capital of Turkey, there are places here. The best option, of course, would be not to look for a beach in the city, but to buy a plane ticket and fly to the nearest resort. But not everyone can afford this. Therefore, it is worth considering places in the city itself that can be visited within a few hours or one day.

Istanbul beaches: Küçüksu Beach, Florya Beach, Caddebostan Beach, Yesilkoy Beach. We will not consider the option of diving near a stone, bridge, embankment, etc., since this can be done in any suitable place. But you should not, of course, forget that you can do this only at your own peril and risk.

The beach located in Florya Güneş, eight hundred and forty meters long, is one of the easiest ways to swim in Istanbul. The beach is located on the coast of the Sea of ​​Marmara. The entrance fee here is about fifteen liras. It is officially open to the public until seven in the evening. The infrastructure on the beach is well developed, there are cafes, changing rooms, toilets, sun loungers, showers and umbrellas. The beach itself consists of fine sand. You can get here from Sirkeci station by high-speed tram at the Sirkeci stop; if you go by train, you need to get to Florya station. Electric trains run very frequently between Florya and Sirkeci stations. If you get there from the Sultanahmet or Beyazit area, then go to Sikerci station to get to Florya, you don’t have to go, it’s not necessary. You can simply walk towards the Sea of ​​Marmara to the Kumkapı or Cankurtaran train stops, respectively. And if you live in Laleli or Askara, then you also need to get to the Yenikapı stop.

Çiroz Halk Plajı - Beach in Yeşilköy. Entrance to this beach is free. Here you can use toilets, showers, and also rent sunbeds and umbrellas. The length of the beach is six hundred and sixty meters. You can get to this beach in the same way as to the beach in Florier. Just get off at the Yeşilköy stop.

There are also Caddebostan beaches in Istanbul - Caddebostan plaj. The beaches are located in Asia, in the Kadikoy region, that is, in the Asian part of the Sea of ​​​​Marmara. The beaches in this area are three two hundred and fifty meters long, three hundred and four hundred and fifty. Entrance to all beaches is completely free. On the local beaches in Jaddebostan there is infrastructure: toilets, showers, cafes. You can also rent umbrellas and sun loungers.

To get to these Caddebostan beaches, you first need to get to the Kadikoy pier. This is very easy to do with the help of water transport, from Kabatas, Eminonu, Besiktas and other places. Next you need to take a bus from Kadikoy, which goes towards Pendik along the coast. For example, in this direction there are buses numbered 4 and 16, as well as 16 D, ER2 (to Kadikoy - ER1) and others. You will need to get off at the stops TAHRAN LİSESİ, ÇİFTE HAVUZLAR, GÖZTEPE, it all depends on which part of the beach you need to get to.

On the Asian side of the Bosphorus Strait is located Küçüksu Beach, next to the Küçüksu Palace. And entry to this beach is free for everyone. The beach is quite small; its length is only three hundred meters. But there are usually a lot of people here. The beach also has toilets, showers and changing cabins. In order to get to Küçüksu beach, you first need to get to the Üskğdar pier - Yusküdar. This can be done on Vapur. Or along the Marmaray line. Next, you need to change to any bus in Üsküdar with numbers 15, 15M, 15KÇ, 15Y, 15 H, and then get to the stop called Küçüksu.

In addition to the above and described beaches of Istanbul, you can also sunbathe and swim in the vicinity of Istanbul.

More normal beaches are located in the suburbs on the European coast of the capital, namely in the Sariyer district. Places more suitable for swimming are Rumeli Feneri, Kilyos, Demircikoy, Kisirkaya and Gumushdere. One of the cleanest beaches in this area is the beach located on the territory of the Uzunya Beach Club. The territory is well equipped, the infrastructure is well developed. There is also Burc Beach Club, it is the territory of the Bosphorus University Alumni Association, this beach is sandy. There are various water and other entertainments here: bananas, catamarans, parachutes, football and volleyball. In addition, competitions in various sports and concerts are held here annually.

On the Black Sea coast, the beaches that belong to the following clubs are considered more popular: Dalia Beach Club, NonStop Beach Club, Solar Beach Club and Golden Beach Club.

Istanbul stretches along the two banks of the Bosphorus, a strait that is the connecting line between two seas: the Black and Marmara. One side of the coast is called the European part of Istanbul, the other is called the Asian side. The weather conditions in the city are very pleasant and mild, more reminiscent of a subtropical zone, although there are also some signs of a continental climate.

In the summer, the Turkish metropolis is warm and comfortable - the average seasonal temperature ranges from 19 to 28⁰C. But sometimes the thermometer rises to 35⁰C.

Istanbul can probably be called the city of the sun, because every year it pleases its residents and guests with 2 thousand hours of sunshine. At the same time, the air is almost always humid. The greatest heat is observed from the beginning of July to the end of August.

During the summer months, Istanbul turns into a tourist paradise. During this period, travelers from literally all over the planet come to the city. Hotels and hotel complexes in Sultanahmet, the most famous historical district of the metropolis, are always filled to capacity.

June

Istanbul is beautiful at any time of the year

In June, strangely enough, summer begins in Turkey. But in Istanbul it is not only calendar, but also real. During the day, the air warms up to a temperature of 25⁰C, and in the afternoon it is even stronger - up to 30.5⁰C. During this period, the city is not just hot, but also stuffy. It can be difficult to endure such weather, so people often find refuge in local green park areas such as Emirgan or Gülhane. By evening the heat subsides, but the thermometer does not drop below 17 ⁰C. Evening time is perfect for going to catering establishments, which can be found in large numbers under the Galata Bridge. Countless cafes and restaurants open their doors to guests until late at night. The pleasant sea breeze can be quite chilly, so it would be a good idea to throw on a windbreaker or other light, long-sleeved clothing. At the beginning of the first summer month, light rain is still possible, but after the first week the precipitation stops altogether.

The sea temperature cannot yet be called comfortable and suitable for long-term swimming, but already in the second half of June the Bosphorus warms up to 21.3⁰C. So if you are going to Istanbul during this period, then you can already stock up on swimsuits and sunscreen cosmetics. After all, Istanbul in June is a heavenly place not only for connoisseurs of ancient culture and lovers of visiting museums!

July

Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)

The middle of summer pleases Istanbul residents and visitors with excellent weather. Average daily temperatures range from 26 to 30⁰С. Of course, hotter days also happen, but not often. At the same time, the thermometer does not drop below 22⁰C. July is a great time to visit local beach areas, swim and walk in light T-shirts and T-shirts.

It can still be cool in the evenings - due to the proximity to the sea. But in any case, the air does not cool below 20⁰C.

Rainy weather in July Istanbul is a huge rarity. Precipitation is unlikely, because July is rightfully called the sunniest month of the year in the city. The strong winds blowing from the strait come in handy: they provide at least a little refreshment and bring coolness from the sea.

August

Warm evenings are conducive to walks around Istanbul

And in the last month of summer it is hot in Istanbul. The average temperature during the daytime is 28⁰С, but often the air heats up to 25⁰С. Therefore, when traveling to Istanbul in August, be sure to stock up on protective creams, sunglasses and light hats.

But nights in the city at this time are also warm - no lower than 19⁰C. Therefore, instead of adventurously bringing a warm wardrobe with you, it is better to ask in advance whether your hotel room will have a properly working air conditioner. Precipitation in Istanbul during this period is unlikely - it can rain only three days a month, and then for short periods.

Travelers coming to Istanbul need to know: no matter how sweltering the heat may be, you shouldn’t be too naked here. For your trip, purchase light clothing made from natural, airy fabrics - cotton, silk, etc. It is better not to wear synthetic T-shirts, blouses and shirts - this can lead to overheating and severe skin irritation.

Women asking the question of what to wear in summer in Istanbul can be advised to leave too revealing outfits (dresses with a deep neckline, high-necked skirts, etc.) at home. Otherwise, there are no special restrictions (except when you are going to visit a mosque). And be sure to make sure you have comfortable shoes: it is almost certain that you will be walking around the city a lot and for a long time.

Istanbul in summer: how to relax?

Istanbul, Golden Horn

The main reason why you should go to Istanbul in the summer (as, indeed, at any other time of the year) is that it is a beautiful Turkish metropolis. The city has a huge number of historical and architectural monuments that are of interest to tourists from all over the world. For 2,500 years, Istanbul has been a haven for completely different peoples and civilizations, which could not but affect its appearance. Excursion tours around Istanbul, including visits to museum complexes and art galleries, are always bright and interesting.

If your trip is already planned, then you should start by drawing up and choosing other places for summer walks: areas, and also, after a long day full of impressions, you should definitely relax in one of them.

What routes should you choose in the summer?

Of course, it’s more pleasant to be near water in the summer heat, so you can end your walk near the embankment. For example, you can spend most of your time on the promenade, and at the end of the walk relax in the teahouse on soft pillows at the Salacak pier, right opposite.

Plan your sightseeing visits in the morning (especially in ), this will avoid long queues and scorching heat during the day. During the daytime, the hottest period, you can plan a visit to museums. For example, this is not only a unique Byzantine landmark, but also an excellent cool shelter from the sun and heat. Another, more ancient cistern, not far from the Basilica - (entrance to it is free).

Thus, it is better to visit the most popular attractions in the morning, museums and palaces in the daytime, and in the evening take a walk closer to the sea.

It will also be nice to sail to the Asian side of the city, to Kadikoy - a short ferry ride will diversify your holiday.

In any season, the doors of large Istanbul shopping centers are open to travelers, offering goods for every taste and budget. Typically, during the summer, the city hosts its largest event called the Istanbul Shopping Festival. During this period, various tour operators offer impressive discounts on air travel; hotels, restaurants and shops also organize special conditions for tourists.

Beaches of Istanbul

Summer is the best time to enjoy the beauty of Istanbul’s beaches, bask in the sun and soak in the warm waves of the Marmara and Black Seas. The swimming season in Istanbul opens in the last month of spring and lasts until the end of September - beginning of October. Beach holidays in the metropolis cannot be called primitive: the infrastructure here is very developed, so your holiday will be not only pleasant, but also comfortable in any part of the city. I advise you to limit yourself to the beaches located on the European side or on the Princes' Islands - they are more convenient to get to than the Black Sea beaches on the Asian side (Sile and Agva).

Beaches on the Princes' Islands (Adalar)

Elio Beach in the Princes' Islands

Beaches of Kilyos

Kilyos is a small town near Istanbu

Kilyos is a fishing village located in the European part of Istanbul on the Black Sea coast. There are many sandy beaches and fish restaurants.

The popularity of this place is explained by the fact that Kilyos is located 30 kilometers from Istanbul and can be reached by public transport. The road to the beaches runs through the beautiful Belgrade Forest.

Swimming in Killos is only possible on the beaches, in specially designated areas - the thing is that there are dangerous underwater currents here, so swimming behind the buoys and swimming far is not recommended here.

The cost of visiting the beaches is approximately the same, only the recreation concepts differ - somewhere there are more young people, other beaches are more suitable for a relaxing or family holiday.

On average, the cost of entry to the beach and rental of sun loungers varies from 20 to 40 liras.

How to get to Killos?

Getting to Killos is quite easy; from Taksim you can take bus 25T, from Kabatas 25E, from Besiktas 40B. All these buses go to the Sarıyer area, so you need to get off at the Hacıosman Metro stop and transfer to bus 151, which will take you to the Kilyos Merkez stop. Then walk to the beach.

Şile and Agva on the Asian side of Istanbul

The lighthouse is a famous landmark of Sile

Once in Istanbul on the Black Sea coast, be sure to visit the famous resort areas of Agva and Sile and enjoy the beauty of the local beaches. The clean, pleasant-looking beach strip stretches along the coast for as much as 60 km. These beaches have only one drawback - they are located quite far from the central part of the city (to the north of Uskudar).

What to do in Sile?

In Sile you can not only swim in the Black Sea and sunbathe on the beach, but also look at local attractions - the Sile lighthouse and the fortress on Odzakly Island.

The lighthouse, which is the symbol of Šile, was built in 1859 by order of Sultan Abdulaziz to help ships enter the Bosphorus. It is located on a huge cliff. Its construction was carried out by engineers from France in 1859. It is the second largest lighthouse in the entire world and the largest active lighthouse in Turkey. The lighthouse is still in use today and is also open as a museum. This modest museum contains a small collection of various lamps and light bulbs, ancient mechanisms. The museum is open from May to August from 10:00 to 16:00, except Mondays.

The fortress on Odzakly Island is visible from the coastline of the beach. Unfortunately, the fortress was not restored in the most successful way, although it is of historical value. According to one version, it was erected by the Byzantine emperor Andronicus, according to another - by the Genoese. It served as an excellent observation post and protected the city from attacks from the sea.

In the eastern part of Sile, not far from the locally famous lighthouse, a spring flows right in the middle of the rocks with the interesting name Weeping Rocks. This name is no coincidence: if you look closely, you can see the appearance of a crying human face on the rocky walls.

You can get from Istanbul to Sile and Agva by buses No. 139 (in Sile) and No. 139A (in Sile and Agva), departing from the Harem Otogar bus station. Buses run from 6:30 in the morning until 12 at night (No. 139), and from 6:00 in the morning until 20:30 in the evening (No. 139A).

Coast in the village of Imrenli Koyu in Sila

Since the beaches of Šile are located on the same coastline, all you have to do is take a walk along the sea and choose the one you like. The entrance fee to the beaches of Šile ranges from 20 to 50 liras.

I would highlight two beaches here - the public beach and the Life Beach (which is located on part of the Ağlayankaya Plajı beach).

Sile Public Beach (Halk plajı)

Entry to the public beach is free, you can lay down your towel and enjoy your holiday. Please note that on holidays (Bayram) and weekends there are a lot of people on the beach. The cost of renting a sun lounger is 20 liras.

Life Beach

In my opinion, this is the cleanest, calmest and most well-groomed beach in Sile. The sand is always removed here, there is no garbage or algae, unobtrusive service and no too loud music. The beach is suitable for a relaxing holiday, for families with children; it is only crowded on weekends, but there is no feeling of a crowd. On weekdays it is very calm and quiet here.

There is a cafe on the beach where you can have breakfast or lunch; the menu includes various types of meat and seafood.

As mentioned above, Life Beach is located on the coastline of Ağlayankaya Plajı - Aglayankaya, so to find it, you need to specify that you want to go to Aglayankaya. To do this, we take bus 139, which departs from the bus station next to the Üsküdar pier and get off at the Şile Terminal. Then you can take a taxi to Ağlayankaya Plajı beach (2 km).

Entrance fee is 40 liras on weekdays, 50 liras on weekends.

Rent of gazebos - 150 liras.

Life Beach on the map:

Many hotels in Sila are located on the seashore, so you can watch sunsets and sunrises against a sea background. The easiest option is to look at the options online:

Agva

Agva resort is a place of peace and tranquility

The name of the resort is translated from Latin as “Village between two rivers.” This settlement is located at a decent distance from Istanbul - 100 km. From Sile to Agva 50 km. The village is truly comfortably located surrounded by two rivers - Yeshilchay and Goksu, which carry their clean waters to the Black Sea.

Not far from the village there is an excellent beach where it is very convenient to relax, sunbathe and swim in the sea. The river banks are dotted with all kinds of boarding houses and hotels. Many hotels offer tourists to rent kayaks or catamarans to take a breeze along the river surface and even swim to sea water. Life in Agva is very calm and measured, an atmosphere of peace reigns everywhere. It is worth coming here for those who like to be alone with nature and themselves, enjoying the whisper of the wind, the rustling of leaves and the singing of birds.

Summer is the ideal time to travel to Agva

What to do in Agva?

— Rent a pedal boat or kayak and go on an exciting voyage along the rivers.

— Take a walk to nearby attractions, have breakfast by the Saklı Göl lake, or rent a bicycle.

- Go fishing.

— Sit comfortably in the evening near the fireplace and just dream, armed with a glass of sparkling wine or a cup of aromatic Turkish tea.

Breakfast at Lake Saklı Göl

— Go on a sightseeing tour on a motor boat. Exploring the beautiful local surroundings in this way will cost no more than 60 lire.

— Go on a hike to a nearby village.

— Lie quietly in a hammock near the river, enjoying reading your favorite book and tranquility.

Agva is perfect not only for a relaxing beach holiday, but also for long walks.

Local attractions in Agva:

• Bride's Rock (Gelin Kayası)
• Kilimli village (Kilimli koyu) and Kadirga village (Kadırga koyu)
• Lake Saklı Göl - here you can have breakfast and take a walk right along the shore of the lake.
• Kurudere Waterfall
• Gurlek Cave

The hotels in Agva are especially worth noting - these can be cozy houses right next to the river, surrounded by greenery and silence. You can also choose small hotels; as a rule, even in high season, it is not noisy or crowded here. Among the most beautiful and comfortable hotels in Agva are: Agva The Escape Hotel, Ağva Shelale Otel, Wineport Lodge Ağva, Ağva Greenline Guesthouse, Ağva Mi Norte Boutique & Exclusive Hotel.

If you are planning a trip to Agva in the summer season, be sure to book a hotel in advance, as all hotels here have a small capacity. It is better to choose and book a hotel a month before your trip.

If we compare holidays in Shila and Agva, then in Shila the situation is noisier, there are always local tourists and vacationers, while Agva is a more peaceful and calm place where you are guaranteed a break from the noisy city. You can go to Agva for a couple of days and enjoy the silence and unity with nature.

Boat trip along the Bosphorus (Boğaz Turu)

In summer, a boat trip along the Bosphorus is a must.

You can also choose an individual tour on a small boat or yacht. For example, while walking around Anadolu Hisarı, you can go on a short spontaneous sea voyage. Here, next to the Anatolian fortress, along the Göksu deresi river, boats set off and can take you for 1-2 hours.

Anatolian fortress and Göksu river on the map:

Water parks in Istanbul ( Aquapark)

Aqua Marine water park

For those who travel to Istanbul with family and children in the summer, a variety of city water parks will provide a pleasant pastime. Water parks are a popular holiday destination not only for guests, but also for the native residents of Istanbul.

You can take a pleasant break between excursions in the summer heat in one of the water parks in Istanbul. The most popular of them: Aqua Marine and Aqua Club Dolphin. But Aqua Marine is more suitable for tourists - it is located on the European side, Aqua Club Dolphin is on the Asian side.

Aqua Marine is located on the coast of the Sea of ​​Marmara, occupies a large area and can accommodate up to 3,000 guests. The water park is open only in the summer, as it is located in the open air. The park has 12 slides for adults and 5 for children. There is a cafe on site where you can take a break and eat, and there are also green areas with sun loungers.

Entrance fee: men 50 liras (on Sundays 60 liras), women 35 liras (on Sundays 45 liras), children 5-12 years old 25 liras (on Sundays 35 liras). The water park's opening hours are from 10-00 to 17-00.

You can get to the water park by a service bus, which departs from the Marmara Hotel in Taksim from 9-00 to 10-00.

Belgrade Forest ( Belgrad Ormanı)- quiet walk and picnic

Belgrade Forest in Istanbul

Those who adore nature and prefer to relax quietly, without fuss, are recommended to visit the city's green areas, which include the Belgrade Forest.

In 1521, Sultan Suleiman returned from a campaign and brought many captured Serbs with his army. The name of the forest comes from the village Belgrad Köyü, which they later founded - here, north of the city, they were allowed to settle.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, the hand of the one who cut down a branch in the Belgrade forest was cut off, and the head of the one who cut down a tree.

Today, this wonderful forest occupies 5.5 thousand hectares, and is separated from the sea coast by about 4 kilometers.

In the Belgrade Forest, relict trees that are several hundred years old have survived to this day.

In the Belgrade Forest you can take a walk and relax in a cafe

This park, with a well-developed tourist infrastructure, has everything you need for a pleasant and relaxing pastime, including equipped picnic areas, cafes and comfortable jogging paths. Here you can take a break from the noise of the metropolis, the sultry heat and listen to the singing of birds.

With the onset of darkness, life in the city begins to boil even more. Surrounded by the cool evening air, hundreds of tourists head to local restaurants and bars, which warmly welcome guests and immerse them in a cozy atmosphere. Many catering establishments set up tables directly in the fresh air, and some even equip special terraces on the roofs of buildings. These terraces offer magnificent views of the city panorama. Therefore, tourists come here not only to quench their appetite, but also to admire the beauties of Istanbul. The busiest areas of the metropolis at night are Beyoglu and Karakoy.

Summer cafes in Istanbul that are worth visiting

It is especially pleasant to spend time on the banks of the Bosphorus in the warm summer. If you have already made a trip to the Princes' Islands or a tour of the Bosphorus, you should definitely devote time to breakfast or dinner near the sea - positive emotions are guaranteed. I offer you several cafes and restaurants located near the seashore, with open verandas and beautiful views of Istanbul.

I would like to note that we cited these places as examples precisely because of the beautiful view of Istanbul and the Bosphorus and the pleasant atmosphere; the menu in this case is secondary - after all, everyone has different food preferences.

Cafes and restaurants on the European side:

Starbucks Bebek

For lovers of morning coffee with fresh pastries, there is a great option - Starbucks in the Bebek area, where you can not only enjoy a beautiful view of the Bosphorus while drinking a hot latte, but also take a stroll along the Bebek embankment, inhaling the aroma of the sea. This is a popular place among both city residents and guests.

The average bill is 15-30 liras per person.

Cafe on the map:

The House Cafe

The House Cafe in Ortakoy

The restaurant is located next to the Ortakoy Mosque and offers views of the Bosphorus. After a delicious meal, you can stroll through the streets of Ortakoy, drink a cup of coffee and check out the flea market.

Quite a popular place, so it is better to reserve a table in advance or arrive early if you are going for breakfast.

The average bill for two persons is 200 liras including alcohol.

Cafe on the map:

Sade kahve

Sade kahve in Bebek

This place may surprise you with its simple, completely unpretentious decor, but Sade Kahve is very popular among locals. The cafe is located in Bebek across the road from the embankment. You can have breakfast overlooking the strait, or drink a cup of Turkish coffee and then take a walk along the Bebek embankment.

The cost of breakfast for two persons is 80 liras.

Cafe on the map:

Kaşıbeyaz Bosphorus

Restaurant Kaşıbeyaz Bosphorus

The restaurant is located near the Bosphorus Strait, so you can enjoy beautiful views both in the morning and in the evening. On a summer evening with a glass of wine, it is very pleasant to admire the beauty of Istanbul here.

The average bill for two people with alcohol is 250 liras.

Breakfast 130 liras for two.

Cafe on the map:

Aşşk Kahve

Cafe Assk kahve in Istanbul

In the summer, it is extremely pleasant to sit in the open air right next to the waves of the Bosphorus, which is why the cafe is popular with both locals and city guests. Don't expect unusual dishes on the menu; the main advantage of Ashk Kahve is the beautiful view.

The average bill for two people with alcohol is 150 liras.

Breakfast for two 120 liras

Peninsula Teras Restaurant Golden City Hotel

Terrace Peninsula Restaurant

The restaurant is located on the terrace of the Golden City Hotel, overlooking the Golden Horn, and from the terrace of the restaurant you can see the Galata Tower and the sights of Sultanahmet, which are decorated with lighting after dark. The hotel itself is located in one of the busiest areas of Istanbul - Karakoy. The average check for two persons is 200-220 liras (with alcohol)

Tribeca - great view and promenade walk in Acqua Floria

The cafe is located on the embankment in Aqua Florya; this place is especially convenient for a walk or lunch with a sea view for those who have several hours between flights (Aqua Florya is located quite close to Ataturk Airport). You can come here before your flight and take a walk along the embankment.

The average bill is about 160 liras for two (including alcohol).

Banyan Restaurant

Banyan restaurant overlooking the Ortakoy Mosque

You can spend a summer evening admiring the beautiful Ortakoy Mosque and the Bosphorus Bridge - views of both of these attractions are available to guests of the Banyan restaurant. Fresh seafood and good service will lift your spirits, and a walk around Ortakoy will add new impressions.

The average bill for two people is 260 liras (with alcohol).

The Market Bosphorus

From The Market Bosphorus restaurant you can see the Bosphorus Bridge in all its glory

Market Bosphorus is a steak restaurant with a wonderful view of the Bosphorus and the Bosphorus Bridge, which is located in the Besiktas area (near the Aşşk Kahve cafe). We especially recommend visiting the establishment in the evening, then the view from the window is truly mesmerizing.

The average check for two persons is 250 liras.

Gazebo Cafe & Restaurant

Gazebo Cafe & Restaurant

In the Gazebo cafe you can not only have breakfast, but also dinner. The menu is not very diverse, but this is not as important as the beautiful panorama opening from the cafe windows.

The average cost of breakfast is 130 liras for two people, dinner 220 liras for two.

Cafes and restaurants on the Asian side:

Villa Bosphorus

Villa Bosphorus Restaurant is located on the Asian side of Istanbul

The restaurant has not only a beautiful view of the strait and the Bosphorus Bridge, but also a good location - after breakfast you can stroll through the small square near the Beylerbeyi pier, where chestnuts are sold, admire the fishing boats and the Beylerbeyi Camii mosque.

The cost of breakfast for two persons is 100 liras, the average dinner bill is 250 liras (with alcohol)

Del Mare Ristorante

Del Mare Ristorante

The Del Mare fish restaurant is located on the Asian side and offers guests not only good service and delicious dishes, but also a beautiful view of the Bosphorus Strait from the outdoor terrace. There are few tourists here, so the atmosphere is conducive to a romantic and relaxing dinner.

The average bill for two persons is 270 liras (with alcohol).

Doga Balik

Restaurant Doğa balık

Located within walking distance from the Bosphorus Palace Hotel, the fish restaurant Doğa Balık offers its guests an outdoor veranda near the sea with stunning views of the Bosphorus Bridge (15 Temmuz Şehitler Köprüsü). In the evening, the bridge is illuminated with multi-colored lights.

The average bill for two is 300 liras (with alcohol).

Summer holidays and festivals in Istanbul

Istanbul Shopping Fest in Istanbul takes place annually

Of course, the most visited event in the city at the beginning of summer can be called the “Istanbul Shopping Fest”. The marathon for shopaholics, which lasts almost an entire month, attracts a huge number of travelers from all countries and continents. During this period, the largest shopping centers and stores in the metropolis open their doors to visitors 24 hours a day. During the festival, unprecedented discounts are available throughout Istanbul, up to 80%. Also pleasing are the various competitions, sweepstakes, promotions, and parties that are organized by the owners of retail outlets.

In 2017, the festival was successfully held from early to mid-July; for 2018, the schedule and program of the event have not yet been announced.

A major summer festival that gathers crowds of modern youth in Istanbul is the electronic music festival, the tradition of which began in the city not so long ago - in 2004. As a rule, the event is planned for the end of July.

Evening view of Sultanahmet

Also in early to mid-summer, Istanbul delights guests and residents with classical concerts, which are held as part of the International Music Festival. This grand event has been taking place in the city since 1972. Over the rich history of the festival, Montserrat Caballe, Aldo Cicollini, Elisabeth Schwarzkopf and other world celebrities have become its guests.

In terms of leisure activities, Istanbul can be called a universal city. A trip to this Turkish metropolis will appeal to connoisseurs of culture and history, shopping lovers, and those who want to plunge headlong into vibrant modern entertainment. The vacation program may be very contrasting, but it will certainly remain in your memory for the rest of your life!

Istanbul is the main city of Turkey, it is inhabited by millions of residents and visited by millions of tourists every year. The ancient capital of Byzantium is divided into European and Asian parts and is the third most populous city in Europe.

Typically, people who come to Istanbul are not so much fans of beach holidays, but those who want to visit the ancient city, such as one of the largest indoor markets in the world, which includes more than 60 streets and 18 mosques. But the summer heat makes you think about finding a place to swim.

In addition, vacationers here have a unique opportunity to swim in two seas at once - the Marmara and Black Seas; the beaches of Istanbul offer a choice in favor of one of them or swim in both. Among the most popular holiday destinations in the largest Turkish city are the beaches of Killos and Jaddebostan, Florya and the Princes' Islands.

Coast of the Marmara Sea

The most famous holiday destination on the Marmara Sea coast is Jaddebostan. It is located in the Asian part of the city and includes three equipped beaches, the length of the coastal strip of each of them is from 250 to 450 meters. The sea itself in this area is quite shallow, so The water here warms up very quickly and stays warm for a long time. There are sunbeds, showers, changing rooms.

Many vacationers can be found in the area of ​​Fenerbahce Bay. The beach here is not as large and crowded as Jaddebostan, but it is also equipped with everything you need - there are toilets, changing cabins, cafes and restaurants.

In the European part of the coast of the Sea of ​​Marmara there is Florier Beach. Guests are offered a full range of entertainment - from sports equipment rental to bars and discos. The shore is sandy, the entrance to the sea is convenient. True, it is located in the suburbs, some distance from Istanbul. Trains run to Florier station from Sirkeci station.

Black Sea coast

The beaches of the Black Sea offer tourists the most sophisticated and varied holiday. The Black Sea coast skirts the European part of Istanbul. There are several clubs here that offer almost all types of active recreation. Uzunya Beach Club is considered one of the cleanest.

This is very important considering the fact that for a long time it was not even possible to swim in the seas of Istanbul for hygienic reasons. Today you can do this without any fear. Vacationers here are also recommended to visit a fish restaurant and spend a weekend at a campsite.

The Killos area includes several places for swimming in the Black Sea. Here There are mostly paid beaches, they offer vacationers a variety of entertainment, including rental of water equipment and discos. There is also one public beach in the area; there is no entrance fee. However, you need to be prepared for a large number of vacationers, especially crowded on the beach on weekends.

In the eastern part of Istanbul there is another resort area - Sile. It includes the beaches of Agva and Šile. The first one offers to engage in water sports, ride a yacht, catch fish on your own in the Black Sea, or even go hunting. The second one is conducive to a more relaxing holiday; usually people come here just to sunbathe and swim. These places are very popular among residents; many here have their own villas exclusively for summer holidays. In addition to swimming, hiking is very popular here - the Schile district is distinguished by amazing landscapes: cliffs, forests, lakes.

Coast of the Bosphorus

You can't visit Istanbul without seeing the Bosphorus Strait. Thousands of ships sail through it every day; after all, Istanbul is the largest port connecting Europe and Asia. Traffic congestion significantly affects the environment, so swimming in these places is not recommended. However, there are several places in the Bosphorus Strait where you can swim. Senela Beach Club is the most popular beach among tourists, it is located at the confluence of the Black Sea and the Bosphorus Strait.

Beaches of the Princes' Islands

The Princes' Islands are a favorite vacation spot for Istanbul residents themselves. Here you can truly escape from the bustle of the city, immerse yourself in the peace and quiet of the resort town. The sea in the Princes' Islands area is clear and warm. And on the coast, tourists will not see a single car; only bicycles and horse-drawn carriages are allowed here.

You can get to the islands by ferry and sea taxi. There are hotels and bungalows on the shore where you can spend the night and even stay for a couple of days. The beaches themselves offer a lot of entertainment, animators work, and there are cafes and restaurants. The shortest road from Istanbul is to Kinalyada Island.

Typically, tourists do not come to the ancient city to see the beaches of Istanbul. There are 17 palaces, more than 60 mosques, many museums and historical sites. Having visited the Grand Bazaar and the Egyptian Bazaar, everyone will find a gift for friends and family. Here, vacationers from all over the world buy souvenirs and oriental sweets. A beach holiday, although not the purpose of the visit, most often becomes a pleasant addition to the main tourist route, allowing you to relax and unwind.

It has always attracted many tourists. According to archaeological research, it appeared on the site of an ancient settlement founded in 6500 BC. e. Over the millennia of its history, it has changed several names: it was Byzantium, Constantinople, and finally, in the middle of the 15th century, it was renamed Istanbul.

Noisy bazaars, historical monuments, beautiful embankments - this is what travelers want to see. The sea in Istanbul, and there are two of them, is the last thing that interests tourists. Usually, in search of water sparkling under the bright sun and snow-white beaches, vacationers go to resorts in the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas. Istanbul is considered for a beach holiday either by local residents or tourists who do not specifically plan to go to a seaside resort.

Sea elements in Istanbul

The most famous city, Istanbul, is incredibly lucky. We can say that it is washed by the waters of two seas at once. More precisely, it was built on the coast of the Sea of ​​Marmara and on the shores of the Bosphorus Bay, which connects the Black and Marmara seas. It takes about an hour to get to the Black Sea, located north of the city.

The beaches of the Marmara Sea are located within Istanbul. This sea is shallow, the water in it warms up well and maintains its high temperature until the beginning of October. Many tourists consider the Sea of ​​Marmara in Istanbul to be dirty, but even within the city limits you can find beaches located far from sea routes. The water off the coast here retains its transparency.

The Sea of ​​Marmara near the city beaches has a sandy bottom, which is not fraught with danger for vacationers. However, you should be especially careful when swimming in the bays of the islands closest to Istanbul - Princes and Marmara. The bottom there is rocky.

The Black Sea is located north of Marmara, so it is considered colder. In the Istanbul area people swim in it until mid-September.

Best beaches

If fate has brought a tourist to Istanbul for several weeks in the summer, then you can set aside a few days of your vacation for a beach holiday.

The most famous beaches of Istanbul are located:

• at the Black Sea. 25 km separate the outskirts of Istanbul from the Black Sea coast. On the European side of the city, the most popular holiday destination is the beaches of Killos. There are clubs, bars, and taverns lined up along 7 paid beaches. You can only enter them from the sea. To do this you need to pay for access to the beach. Closer to the Asian areas of the city are the resort areas of Sile and Agve. These are holiday villages where locals prefer to relax. It will take about an hour to get to these beaches with several transfers;
• on the European shore of the Sea of ​​Marmara. The best beaches in this part of Istanbul are located in the Florya district, where there are trains and buses from the Eminonu district. In addition to the 800-meter long beach with excellent infrastructure, you can find an interesting aquarium here. There is a good, well-maintained, clean beach in the Atakei area. The town of Silivri not far from Istanbul does not complain about the lack of warm sea lovers;
• on the Anatolian coast of the Sea of ​​Marmara. Since 2005, there are 3 beaches (2 free and 1 paid) in the Jaddebostan district. When the Istanbul authorities announced that the sea here was suitable for swimming, the public was skeptical about this message. To prove that he was right, one of the officials dived into the sea during the opening ceremony of the beach.

What to do by the sea?

Swimming in the waves of the Black and Marmara seas will quickly get boring. Enterprising locals working in the tourism industry are well aware of this. In order not to lose customers, they offer them various interesting entertainments. For example, beach clubs are incredibly popular in the country, which are located on the seashore and represent a complex of various establishments: here you can find wonderful bars and restaurants, a swimming pool with a relaxation area filled with sun loungers, a solarium, etc. You won’t be bored in such a club , because there are always fun parties going on here. One of the most famous beach clubs in Istanbul operates on Galatasaray Island.

Other marine attractions include fishing either from the Galata Bridge (you can ask for gear at the hotel or from local fishermen) or from on board a boat. On a yacht or boat, you can move out to sea further from the shore and count on a more substantial catch.

In the summer season, more and more Istanbul residents and city guests prefer to spend their weekends not in the hot center, but on the beaches. Contrary to the popular belief that there is not much swimming in Istanbul, we will tell you about the best beaches in the city, of which, as it turns out, there are a great many in Istanbul and its environs. Despite the huge size of the city, getting to vacation spots is not so difficult. You just need to know exactly where you want to go. As in most coastal countries in the world, the best and most comfortable are private beaches, although there are also public ones, such as in Kilyos. In the southern part of the city, lovers of water recreation prefer to swim near the historical center in the Sea of ​​Marmara. But the best beaches in the city are in the “wild” northern part of Istanbul and beyond. So, let's focus on the best beaches, in our opinion.

Private beach in Kilyos, owned by Bosphorus University (Bogazici Universitesi). The sandy beach stretches 2 kilometers along the sea. there you will be offered sun loungers and umbrellas, sailing on sea catamarans, canoes, windsurfing, as well as grounds for beach football and volleyball. For the convenience of vacationers, there are changing cabins and fresh water showers on the beach. On the beach there is a restaurant for 200 people and a bar on the shore, where you can have a hearty lunch or just order a cocktail. The beach often hosts various sporting events, as well as concerts and discos. Burc Beach is open daily from 9am to 9:30pm. The entrance ticket costs 30 on weekdays and 40 liras on weekends and holidays. You can get to the beach by 59RK from 4.Levent and ITU Ayazaga. Keep in mind that the journey will take a lot of time.

This small beach is located in a bay on the Black Sea coast. The beach is private and was opened in 2002. The beach itself is very beautiful - with many green spaces, a garden, and all the opportunities for active recreation. Of course, all beach amenities are offered here - sun loungers, umbrellas, as well as all kinds of beach activities. The beach is family-friendly, so its owners take care of the guests - there is a bookstore on the territory of the complex, private security around the perimeter, a huge parking lot, as well as bars for every taste and even a fish restaurant where you can taste gourmet dishes. The beach is open year-round from 9 am to 10:30 pm. The entrance ticket costs 30 liras. You can get to the beach by bus 151 from the center of the Sariyer area.

Solar Beach is Turkey's largest private beach with an area of ​​30,000 square meters. Very often, mass events, festivals and large concerts of the world's most famous performers are held here. There is not only a beach here, but also a huge cultural and entertainment complex, a lot of cafes and restaurants. It's always very crowded and fun here. The easiest way to get to the beach is from the Sariyer center, which can be reached by dolmus from any part of the city or, for example, from the 4.Levent or ITU Ayazaga metro stations by bus 59RK, 25G or 42M. Bus 59RK takes you directly to Burc Beach and walks to Solar Beach. The entrance ticket costs 25 liras on weekdays and 40 liras on weekends and holidays.

One of the few private beaches in Istanbul that offers free Wi-Fi. Discos and concerts of famous performers in different genres are regularly held here. During concerts and events, the beach arranges transfers from and to Darussafaka. Most of the beach visitors are students and young people. The beach is positioned as a fashionable vacation spot for young people outside the center of Istanbul. The beach is open daily from 9am to 10pm. The cost of entry to the territory is 15 liras on weekdays and 30 liras on weekends and holidays. Getting to the beach is easy. You need to get to the Haciosman metro station, go down to the bus stop and take bus 152 to Gumusdere, where you need to turn onto the beach alley and after 5 minutes go to the beach.

The beach stretches for a mile along the coastline and allows you to plunge into silence far from millions of people. At night you can pitch a tent on the beach and watch the stars to the sound of the sea. The beach has all the usual facilities and services. The beach is located next door to Suma Beach and you need to get to it the same way, that is, get to the Haciosman metro station, go down to the bus stop and take bus 152 to Gumusdere, where you need to turn onto the beach alley and after 5 minutes go to the beach. The landmark is the police school. The beach is right behind it. The beach is open from 9 am to 9:30 pm. Ticket price is 10 liras on weekdays and 20 liras on weekends. The beach offers a paid transfer service from the hotel - the driver will pick you up in the morning and take you back to the hotel in the evening. To do this, you need to order a transfer from the beach administration.

Florya Menekşe Plajı

This free city beach is located in the wonderful Florya district in the European part of Istanbul on the shores of the Marmara Sea. On the beach there are 200 sun loungers, 200 umbrellas, 2 lifeguard towers, 10 lifeguards, a first-aid post, showers and toilets. There is a buffet on the shore, and behind the beach there is parking for 300 cars. The beach offers a wonderful view of both the sea and the embankment. Getting to the beach is very easy - take a metrobus or bus to the center of the Floria district and walk to the beach. Given the proximity to the beach, you can watch the planes while enjoying the warm waters of Marmara.

Florya Güneş Plajı

Another holiday destination in the Florya area, on the shores of the Marmara Sea. A very decent size beach with 1,500 sun loungers and 1,500 umbrellas, where a great many townspeople come on hot summer days. There are 234 changing cabins, 48 ​​showers, 42 toilets, a security building, 2 cafeterias, 228 storage rooms, as well as 2 rescue towers and parking for 300 cars. During the summer season, volleyball courts are set up on the beach and lively music is played. Every day the beach is cleaned by cleaning service employees, and the beach area is guarded. Ticket price is 15 liras for adults, 10 liras for schoolchildren and students. Children under 7 years old enter the territory free of charge.