Istanbul, due to its numerous attractions, is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. However, Istanbul is not limited to the city itself, and there are many charming and picturesque villages around it, each with its own beauty and uniqueness. In this article from Saed News, we introduce 10 fascinating villages near Istanbul.
Turkey, with its cultural attractions, stunning nature, and rich history, is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. Due to its proximity and cultural similarities with Iran, it is also an ideal option for Iranian tourists. In addition to the cities, some rural areas are also part of the travel attractions when visiting Turkey or on private tours. The villages of Turkey differ from the environments of the large cities and introduce visitors to another aspect of the culture, life, and traditional customs of Turkey.
The rural environment, in contrast to the noise of big cities, still represents silence and peace, making it an ideal experience for those seeking tranquility during their travels. Join us on this journey.
Polonezköy (Polonezkoy)
The village of "Polonezköy" is located in the Asian side of Istanbul. It is known as the "Polish Village of Istanbul" because, during the Ottoman era, Polish people settled here, and Polish was the common language in the village. Over time, due to its unique demographic, Polonezköy gradually became a tourist attraction.
There are various recreational activities in Polonezköy, including horseback riding, walking tours to explore the historical landmarks, and visiting the exhibition of old village photos. The village offers small and large restaurants to enjoy meals and a cup of Turkish coffee, as well as accommodations in traditional houses and numerous hotels around the village.
The beautiful village of Polonezköy preserves the design of traditional settlements throughout the area. Visitors can explore the forest surrounding the village and enjoy a 5-kilometer walking trail designed for this purpose.
The restaurants and cafes in Polonezköy reflect the village's history. In summer, visitors can enjoy BBQ and picnic facilities and dine in its lush natural surroundings. They can also participate in the traditional cherry festival and folk performances of Polonezköy.
Address: Beykoz District
Population: Approximately 350 people (2022)
Distance from Istanbul: About 40 km (50-minute drive)
Şile (Sile)
"Şile" is one of the most beautiful areas of Istanbul, located along the Black Sea coastal strip. This region is ideal for picnics and enjoying the breathtaking sea views.
Travelers visit Şile to see historical buildings, rocky islands, and stunning landscapes. The area is famous for its multiple calm beaches, where visitors can relax, swim, exercise, or go for a walk. The restaurants in this village offer special dishes with different flavors.
In mid-November (Azar), a seed exchange festival is held among the villagers of Şile, where they bring seeds and products such as hazelnuts and honey to exchange with others. A century-old plane tree is also a notable attraction in the Şile area.
In Şile, there is another famous village called "Agva." Agva, with a population of 2,150 (2022), is one of the most attractive villages near Istanbul along the Black Sea coast. The village's beautiful environment, natural lake, and large boulders make Agva a fascinating destination for travelers. The village's lake offers a pleasant space for walking, resting by the shore, and fishing.
In addition to its beautiful nature, Agva has an appealing and scenic square where visitors can find cafes, restaurants, and a mosque. On Friday mornings, a traditional market is also held.
The small village of Agva is one of the most pristine and beautiful places in the Şile region of Istanbul. Thousands of tourists visit Agva annually to experience its beautiful nature, and especially during holidays, the village becomes bustling with visitors. This area is also suitable for walking, cycling, camping, and hiking.
In the summer, visitors can swim in the Black Sea or enjoy water sports. There is also a small fishing harbor near Agva. This village provides a peaceful atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul, where travelers can experience traditional Turkish life.
Address: Istanbul
Population: Approximately 43,500 people (2022)
Distance from Istanbul: About 80 km (1 hour 40-minute drive)
Riva
"Riva" is a small coastal village located on the banks of a river that leads to the Black Sea, making it one of the most beautiful villages near Istanbul and a great choice for family picnics. The stunning views of this village attract many tourists.
Before World War I, the population of Riva was predominantly Greek. However, after the population exchange between Greece and Turkey in the 1920s, the Greeks left Riva, and Black Sea Turks settled there.
Riva is considered part of Istanbul but still retains some rural characteristics. A Byzantine castle sits on a hill in the village overlooking the Black Sea. Riva was also a filming location for the Turkish TV series "Kuruluş Osman" (Resurrection Osman).
Riva features a family-friendly beach perfect for children's play, as well as areas for camping and recreation. The "Elmas Burnu" National Park in Riva offers visitors a captivating view of the lush natural landscape and the sea.
Address: Istanbul, Beykoz District
Population: Approximately 2,900 people (2022)
Distance from Istanbul: About 45 km (1-hour drive)
Sapanca
"Sapanca" is located beside the lake of the same name, which is the largest lake near Istanbul. This village and its lake are crowded with tourists during the summer, but in the winter, visitors experience tranquility by the lakeside.
In spring, the scents of lilies and jasmine fill the air in Sapanca. At "Golpark" (Lake Park), tourists can enjoy beautiful views and spot migratory birds, wild animals, and rare plants. Several hotels and accommodations have been established for tourists.
Address: Sakarya Province
Population: Approximately 45,000 people (2022)
Distance from Istanbul: About 135 km (2 hours 15-minute drive)
Garipce
"Garipce," or "Gari̇pce," symbolizes the European neighborhood of Sarıyer in Istanbul and is one of Turkey's most famous tourist destinations. Travelers visit this village to enjoy the fresh air and stunning views. Garipce is one of eight beautiful and peaceful villages in the Sarıyer district.
The village's natural beauty and attractions like the "Rumelihisari" Castle draw many tourists to Garipce. This castle overlooks the Bosporus Strait, and visitors can enjoy both the view of the bridge and the castle from above.
Throughout the year, visiting Garipce offers a sense of contentment and peace. In summer, tourists can swim in the Bosphorus waters and relax by the shore.
Fishing is a major livelihood for the villagers of Garipce. Tourists can invite themselves for a meal of fresh fish in the village's green spaces and fresh air. The local dishes in Garipce have a natural, unique flavor, different from the foods found in Istanbul, and can be purchased from the village's market.
Address: Istanbul, Sariyer District
Population: Approximately 400 people (2022)
Distance from Istanbul: About 65 km (1 hour 5-minute drive)
Conclusion
In addition to the many attractions within the city, Istanbul is surrounded by many charming and scenic villages. These villages, offering a unique and memorable experience, can complement your trip to Istanbul. This article highlighted five fascinating villages near Istanbul, each with its own beauty and uniqueness.
Tips for Traveling to Villages Around Istanbul:
Before traveling, gather enough information about the village you wish to visit.
For accommodation, you can choose from hotels, eco-lodges, or local houses.
For transportation, you can use buses, taxis, or personal vehicles.
Respect the local culture, traditions, and customs when visiting the villages.
Protect the pristine nature and scenic views of the villages.
Traveling to the villages surrounding Istanbul is a great opportunity to experience rural life, learn about local culture, and enjoy unspoiled nature. With careful planning and selecting the right village, you can create a memorable and enjoyable trip for yourself and your family.
