Istanbul is a busy city with a rich history, delicious food, and bustling markets. But sometimes, you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Fortunately, there are many beautiful places near Istanbul where you can unwind, relax, and enjoy some fresh air. Here are our best picks for the best places near Istanbul for a relaxing vacation.

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Princes’ Islands

The Princes’ Islands stands a group of nine islands located off the coast of Istanbul in the Sea of Marmara. The islands are car-free, making them the perfect place to escape the city and enjoy peace and quiet. Visitors can take a ferry from Istanbul and spend the day exploring the island’s charming streets, beaches, and historic sites. The islands are trendy in the summer, with many locals flocking to the beaches for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.

Sapanca

Sapanca is a small town in the Sakarya province, just a two-hour drive from Istanbul. The town is known for its real beauty, stunning mountains, forests, and a picturesque lake. Visitors can hike, bike, or horse riding through the lush countryside, relax by the lake and take in the serene surroundings. Sapanca is also home to many spas and wellness centres, offering a range of treatments and therapies to help visitors unwind and rejuvenate.

Yalova

Yalova is a coastal city located on the southern coast of the Sea of Marmara, just a short ferry ride from Istanbul. The city is recognized for its hot springs, with many visitors coming to bathe in the thermal waters, which are said to have healing properties. Yalova is also home to many parks and gardens, including the beautiful Yalova Ataturk Mansion and Botanical Garden, which boasts over 1,500 plant species from around the world.

Bursa

Bursa is a historic city located south of Istanbul, known for its stunning Ottoman architecture and rich cultural heritage. The city is home to many mosques, tombs, and museums, including the Green Mosque, the Grand Mosque, and the Bursa City Museum. Tourists can also take a cable car to the top of Uludag Mountain, where they can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and indulge in outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and mountain biking.

Edirne

Edirne is located in the Thrace region of Turkey, close to the border with Greece and Bulgaria. The city is known for its beautiful Ottoman architecture, with many mosques, tombs, and historic buildings dating back to the 15th century. Visitors can explore the city’s many cultural landmarks, including the Selimiye Mosque, the Eski Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. Edirne is also known for its delicious local cuisine, with many restaurants serving traditional dishes such as lamb kebabs, meatballs, and baklava.

Belgrad Forest

Belgrad Forest is a large, forested area located just north of Istanbul. The forest covers over 5,000 hectares and is home to a variety of flora & fauna. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking trails, picnic areas & stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The forest is prevalent in the autumn, when the leaves turn golden and red, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle.

Agva

Agva is a small coastal town located on the Black Sea coast, just a two-hour drive from Istanbul. The town is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and natural beauty. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the sea, or take a boat tour along the scenic coastline. Agva is also home to many seafood restaurants serving fresh fish and other local delicacies.

Iznik

Iznik is a small town located on the shores of Lake Iznik, just a two-hour drive from Istanbul. The town is famous for its rich history & stunning Ottoman architecture. Visitors can explore the ancient city walls, visit the Iznik Tile Works, and admire the beautiful Seljuk and Ottoman mosques and tombs. Lake Iznik is also popular for boating, fishing, and water sports.

Mudanya

Mudanya is a coastal town located on the southern coast of the Sea of Marmara, just a short ferry ride from Istanbul. The town is known for its historic houses, charming streets, and picturesque harbour. Visitors can explore the town’s many cafes, shops, and galleries, relax on the beach, and soak up the sun. Mudanya is also a popular destination for sailing, with many sailing clubs and schools offering courses and rentals.

Assos

Assos is a small town located on the Aegean coast, just a six-hour drive from Istanbul. The town is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and ancient ruins. Tourists can explore the ruins of the ancient city of Assos, visit the nearby Temple of Athena, and enjoy swimming and sunbathing on the town’s many beaches. Assos is also home to many seafood restaurants, serving fresh fish and other local specialties.

In conclusion, there are many beautiful places near Istanbul where you can escape the city and enjoy some peace and quiet. Whether you’re seeing for a relaxing spa retreat, an outdoor adventure, or a cultural experience, these destinations offer something for everyone. So, apply for a turkey e-visa online, pack your bags and head out for a well-deserved break from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul!