Find out the best autumn day trips in Istanbul with our useful guide. People come from all over the world to visit Istanbul because of its lively atmosphere and interesting past. But did you know that just outside the busy streets of the city are some of the most beautiful places to go on a day trip, especially in the fall? Here we’ll explore the best autumn day trips from Istanbul.
Best Autumn day trips from Istanbul
Day trips from Istanbul in the autumn offer a world of wonder just outside the city walls. These places offer a wide range of experiences, from peaceful woods to historic towns, beach getaways, and ancient ruins.
As you make plans for your trip to Istanbul, you might want to add one of these day trips to your list. Enjoy the magic of autumn, so go out and make memories that will last a lifetime.
1. Breathe in the Serenity at Belgrad Forest
In autumn, when the leaves change color in Istanbul, you have to go to the beautiful Belgrad Forest. This peaceful haven is only a short drive from the city center. It has beautiful lakes, peaceful walking trails, and a place to get away from the busy city life. The bright leaves in the forest are beautiful to look at, and it’s a great place to take a slow walk and enjoy nature’s beautiful art.
2. Sail to the Princes’ Islands
In autumn, the Princes’ Islands, a beautiful group of islands just a boat ride from Istanbul, come to life. It’s a great time for a day trip because there are fewer people around and the weather is nice.
You can rent bikes to get around Büyükada or Heybeliada, have a relaxing lunch, and learn about the islands’ past and beautiful scenery. Don’t forget to enjoy a slice of island treat that you made yourself!
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3. Enjoy in the Colors of Şile and Ağva
As autumn comes to Istanbul, the pretty seaside towns of Sile and Agva are great places to get away from it all. You can get to these secret gems by taking a beautiful drive along the Black Sea coast. Check out the ancient lighthouse on Şile and the peace and quiet of the riverside in Ağva. Enjoy fresh seafood at nearby places, take deep breaths of the clean sea air, and savor peaceful moments.
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4. Polonezkoy: A Tranquil Escape to the Polish Village
In the middle of Istanbul’s busy life, the charming town of Polonezkoy is a peaceful place to spend a day. This place, called the “Polish Village,” is a peaceful and beautiful nature haven. Polonezkoy is only a short drive from Istanbul.
It has beautiful forests to explore, delicious Polish food to eat, and charming streets lined with wooden houses to walk along. The warm colors of autumn cover the town, making it a great time to enjoy its idyllic charm.
5. The Enchanting Yalova: Thermal Springs and Nature
Yalova is a great place to get away in the fall because of its hot springs and lush scenery. Soak in the thermal baths’ healing waters, and then go on a wildlife walk in the Yalova Atatürk Arboretum, which is close by. Here, the bright colors of fall come to life, making this a feast for the eyes.
6. Bursa’s Ottoman Heritage – Uludağ Mountain Tour & Cable Car Ride
A day trip to Bursa, which used to be the capital of the Ottoman Empire, is like going back in time. Visit the Bursa Grand Mosque, which is on the UNESCO list, the Green Tomb, which has beautiful architecture, and the famous Iskender kebab. You’ll feel like you’re back in time as you walk through the bazaars and old streets.
On Uludağ Mountain, you can get away to the snowy hills. It’s only a ferry ride from Istanbul. Even though winter is coming soon, this place is truly magical in the fall. Take the cable car to the top, where you’ll see hundreds of miles of woods and mountains all around you. In a cozy lodge, you can sip hot tea and enjoy the fresh mountain air. People from all over Istanbul love to take this day trip in the fall.
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7. Admire the Beauty of İznik (Nicaea)
A peaceful getaway is waiting for you in İznik, a town with a lot of history and old city walls all around it. Explore the ruins of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, go to the famous İznik tile workshops, and take a stroll along the Lake İznik shores. The pretty fall colors and quiet atmosphere of the town make for a memorable day trip.
8. Troy, Gallipoli, and Anzac Day Trip: A Historical Odyssey
Visits to Troy and Gallipoli in one day are fascinating for people who are interested in history. Explore the mythical city of Troy, which is where the Trojan War took place, and honor the Anzacs at Gallipoli.
While visiting these ancient sites in the fall, the sombre mood makes you think about the important events that made history. An extremely popular day trip from Istanbul in the fall.
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9. Sapanca Lake and Masukiye Day Tour: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Get ready to be amazed by how beautiful Masukiye and Sapanca Lake are. This day trip from Istanbul is only a short drive away and promises to be a great mix of nature and relaxing. Take a stroll along the peaceful lake, enjoy a tasty lunch of trout, and explore Masukiye’s lush woods. The soft touch of autumn makes these beautiful places even more peaceful.
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10. Journey to the Roman Ruins of Ephesus
For history buffs willing to venture a bit farther, Ephesus is an archaeological treasure trove. A short flight from Istanbul takes you to this ancient city, where you can explore well-preserved Roman ruins, including the iconic Library of Celsus. Autumn offers pleasant temperatures, making it an ideal time to immerse yourself in the rich history of Ephesus.
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11. Pamukkale Day Trip: Walk on Cotton Castle Terraces
For a day of natural wonders, set your sights on Pamukkale. This UNESCO World Heritage site, known as the “Cotton Castle,” is famous for its terraces of white mineral-rich thermal waters. As autumn sets in, the crowds thin out, allowing you to stroll barefoot on the terraces and soak in the warm, healing waters. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, an archaeological treasure.
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12. Cappadocia Day Trip with Hot Air Balloon Ride
Prepare for an adventure that will take your breath away! A day trip to Cappadocia is a journey into a dreamlike landscape of fairy chimneys and cave dwellings. While autumn adds a touch of magic to this region, the real highlight is the hot air balloon ride. Soar above the surreal landscape as the rising sun paints the sky in a kaleidoscope of colors. It’s a bucket-list experience that will leave you awe-inspired.
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13. Göbeklitepe Day Trip: Unveiling Ancient Mysteries
Step back in time with a day trip to Göbeklitepe, the world’s oldest known temple complex. Located near Şanlıurfa, this archaeological wonder is shrouded in mystery and dates back over 11,000 years. Explore the enigmatic stone pillars and intricate carvings that hint at humanity’s ancient rituals. Autumn offers pleasant weather for a profound journey into the past.
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