Natural Wonders in Istanbul

Although Istanbul is a city known for its historical and cultural riches, its natural wonders are also one of the unique features of this city. We have compiled the hidden natural paradises waiting to be discovered in Istanbul for you. Here is a guide for those who want to discover the unknown natural beauties of Istanbul.

Polonezköy Nature Park

Polonezköy is a lush green village located in the east of Istanbul. This is an ideal place for those who want to be in touch with nature and those who want to have a short escape from the city.

How to Get There?

You can reach Polonezköy with your private vehicle via the TEM Highway or by using the Harem-Üsküdar minibus line. It will be enough to follow the Polonezköy signs.

Address: Polonezköy, 34829 Beykoz/İstanbul

Aydos Forest

Aydos Forest is home to Aydos Hill, one of the highest points in Istanbul. You can walk in the forest and be alone with nature.

How to Get There?

You can reach Aydos Forest by buses and minibuses going to Kartal or Pendik. If you want to go by private vehicle, you can continue towards Kartal using the E-5 Highway.

Address: Aydos Forest, 34899 Pendik/Istanbul

Belgrade Forest

Belgrade Forest is a large forest area located in the north of Istanbul. There are various hiking trails, picnic areas and natural lakes here. It is a popular place for nature walks, especially on weekends.

How to get there?

You can reach Belgrad Forest by private vehicle or by minibuses departing from Hacıosman Metro Station.

Address: Belgrad Forest, 34473 Sarıyer/Istanbul

Hidden Lake

Hidden Lake is a corner of heaven on the Şile road. You can walk by the lake and have a picnic around the pond.

How to get there?

You can reach Hidden Lake by private vehicle via the Şile highway. The lake is located near Teke village.

Address: Saklı Göl, 34983 Şile/İstanbul

Kaymakdonduran Forest

Kaymakdonduran Forest is located in the Beykoz district on the Anatolian side of Istanbul. With its dense woodland and cool weather, it is a perfect getaway for nature lovers.

How to get there?

You can reach Kaymakdonduran Forest by buses going to Kavacık or Çubuklu or by your private vehicle.

Address: Kaymakdonduran Forest, 34820 Beykoz/İstanbul

Atatürk Arboretum

Atatürk Arboretum is a magnificent botanical garden full of different plant species located in the Sarıyer district of Istanbul. You can take nature walks and examine various plants up close.

How to get there?

You can reach the Arboretum by Bahçeköy minibuses departing from Hacıosman Metro Station or by your private vehicle.

Address: Atatürk Arboretum, Bahçeköy, 34453 Sarıyer/İstanbul

Poyrazköy Beach

Poyrazköy is a quiet and peaceful village located in the north of Istanbul, at the point where the Bosphorus opens to the Black Sea. Its beach is ideal for cooling off and sunbathing in the summer months.

How to get there?

You can reach Poyrazköy by continuing towards Beykoz over the FSM Bridge with your private vehicle. Minibuses departing from Beykoz also provide transportation to the village.

Address: Poyrazköy, 34820 Beykoz/İstanbul

Anadolu Kavağı

Anadolu Kavağı is a historical village located at the point where the Bosphorus opens to the Black Sea. You can visit Yoros Castle and enjoy the Bosphorus view.

How to get there?

You can reach Anadolu Kavağı by ferries departing from Üsküdar or by your private vehicle via Kavacık.

Address: Anadolu Kavağı, 34825 Beykoz/İstanbul

These natural beauties are perfect escapes for those who want to get away from the stress of Istanbul and be alone with nature. Set off now to discover the hidden paradises of Istanbul!