
Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Kartal, İstanbul, Turkey
1. Princes' Islands (Adalar)
A group of nine islands off the coast of Istanbul, offering a peaceful escape with beautiful beaches and horse-drawn carriages.
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy pristine beaches and lush greenery on these picturesque islands.
- Historical Sites: Visit the charming old houses, monasteries, and churches dating back to the Byzantine period.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable by sea bus from Kartal in just over an hour.
2. Bursa
A historic city located about two hours from Kartal, known for its beautiful mosques, thermal springs, and Mount Uludag ski resort.
- Cultural Immersion: Wander through the charming streets of Bursa, visiting historic mosques like the Green Mosque and the Grand Mosque.
- Relaxation: Experience the rejuvenating effects of the thermal springs or enjoy a winter getaway at Mount Uludag ski resort.
- Foodie Delight: Savor traditional Turkish dishes such as simit (a sesame-covered bread) and ice cream made from salep (orchid tuber).
3. Yalova
A serene city nestled between the Sea of Marmara and Mount Uludag, offering thermal spas, beaches, and beautiful nature trails.
- Relaxation: Indulge in a relaxing spa day at one of Yalova's many thermal spas.
- Nature Appreciation: Explore the breathtaking nature trails and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Mount Uludag.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable from Kartal in just over an hour by car or bus.
4. Izmit (Kocaeli)
A bustling industrial city with a rich history, offering museums, parks, and a beautiful coastal promenade.
- Cultural Exploration: Discover the region's history at the Izmit Archeology Museum or the Kocaeli Ethnography Museum.
- Nature Appreciation: Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Izmit coastal promenade.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable from Kartal in just over an hour by car or bus.
5. Sapanca Lake
A picturesque lake surrounded by lush forests and mountains, offering boating, horseback riding, and thermal spas.
- Nature Appreciation: Enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Sapanca Lake and its surrounding forests.
- Recreation: Try your hand at boating, horseback riding, or simply relax in a thermal spa.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable from Kartal in just over an hour by car or bus.
6. Silivri
A coastal town offering beautiful beaches, historical sites, and a charming town center.
- Nature Appreciation: Relax on the pristine beaches of Silivri.
- Historical Sites: Visit the historic Silivri Fortress and the Church of St. John.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable from Kartal in just over an hour by car or bus.
7. Izmir
A vibrant coastal city offering a mix of history, culture, and beautiful beaches.
- Cultural Exploration: Discover the ancient ruins of Ephesus or visit the Izmir Clock Tower.
- Nature Appreciation: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Izmir or explore the Kadifekale Castle for stunning city views.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable from Kartal by plane, train, or bus in about three hours.
8. Çanakkale
A historic city with a rich history, offering the Gallipoli Peninsula, beautiful beaches, and thermal spas.
- Historical Sites: Visit the poignant Gallipoli Battlefields and learn about the historical significance of this site.
- Relaxation: Indulge in a relaxing spa day at one of Canakkale's many thermal spas.
- Nature Appreciation: Explore the stunning beaches and beautiful nature of the Gallipoli Peninsula.
9. Bandirma
A charming lakeside town offering beautiful parks, museums, and a vibrant food scene.
- Cultural Exploration: Visit the Bandirma Archaeology Museum or the Atatürk House Museum.
- Nature Appreciation: Enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Lake Iznik and its surrounding parks.
- Foodie Delight: Savor delicious local cuisine, such as fresh fish dishes and traditional desserts.
10. Isparta
A city known for its beautiful thermal spas, stunning landscapes, and historic sites.
- Relaxation: Indulge in a relaxing spa day at one of Isparta's famous thermal spas.
- Nature Appreciation: Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Burdur Lake and Yatagan Valley.
- Historical Sites: Visit the ancient city of Sagalassos or the Karain Cave, one of Turkey's most important archaeological sites.
11. Aydin
A city offering a mix of history, culture, and beautiful beaches.
- Cultural Exploration: Discover the ancient ruins of Priene or visit the Aydin Archaeology Museum.
- Nature Appreciation: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Aydin or explore the picturesque Sart Mountain.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable from Kartal by plane, train, or bus in about three hours.
12. Antalya
A vibrant coastal city offering beautiful beaches, historic sites, and a thriving food scene.
- Cultural Exploration: Visit the ancient ruins of Perge or explore the breathtaking Duden Waterfalls.
- Nature Appreciation: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Antalya or explore the stunning landscapes of Konyaalti Beach and Lara Beach.
- Foodie Delight: Savor delicious local cuisine, such as fresh seafood dishes and traditional Turkish sweets.
13. Denizli
A city known for the stunning Pamukkale Terraces and Hierapolis ancient city.
- Historical Sites: Visit the ancient ruins of Hierapolis and marvel at the unique travertine terraces of Pamukkale.
- Relaxation: Indulge in a relaxing spa day at one of Denizli's famous thermal spas.
- Nature Appreciation: Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Pamukkale and its surrounding areas.
14. Kutahya
A city known for its ceramics industry, historic sites, and beautiful gardens.
- Cultural Exploration: Visit the Kutahya Archaeology Museum or the White Palace Mansion.
- Nature Appreciation: Relax in the beautiful gardens of the White Palace and the Kutahya Botanical Garden.
- Shopping Experience: Pick up unique ceramics as souvenirs from one of Kutahya's many shops specializing in this craft.
15. Balikesir
A city offering a mix of history, culture, and beautiful beaches.
- Cultural Exploration: Visit the Balikesir Archaeology Museum or the ancient ruins of Pergamon.
- Nature Appreciation: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Balikesir or explore the picturesque Mount Ida (Caica Mountain).
- Accessibility: Easily reachable from Kartal by plane, train, or bus in about three hours.