Florya feels like a deep breath. The moment you arrive, the city noise softens, the sea breeze reaches you first, and everything slows down just a little. Locals come here for the same reason visitors love it: wide coastal parks, long walking paths, calm beaches, and that open Marmara Sea horizon that you don’t often get elsewhere in Istanbul.
Our guide will explore Florya with the same care we’d give a friend visiting for the first time. You’ll find out what to do, what to see, where to eat, and how to make the most of a few peaceful hours here.
We checked traveler comments on TripAdvisor, browsed local forums, and walked the area ourselves to gather the details that matter.
Florya is a mix of old Istanbul elegance and modern comfort. Families, runners, cyclists, and café lovers all share the same shoreline. Whether you want quiet time by the water, a stroll through green spaces, or a good meal with a sunset view, Florya gives you plenty of reasons to stay a little longer.
Florya at a Glance
Florya sits along the Marmara Sea on the European side, within Bakırköy. It has long been known as one of Istanbul’s refined coastal neighborhoods. Decades ago, it was the summer home area for high-ranking officials. Many villas from that era still survive, adding charm to the backstreets.
Here, the sea always feels close. Large parks stretch along the coast, making Florya one of the best places in the city for long walks, morning runs, and slow sunset hours. Families often pick Florya for weekend trips thanks to its open areas, playgrounds, beach cafés, and wide promenades.
Despite its calm character, Florya is not isolated. Marmaray, metrobus, and several bus lines connect the neighborhood to Bakırköy, Fatih, Kadıköy, and the airport side of the city. That mix of easy access and relaxed living is what keeps Florya so popular among Istanbul residents.
If you enjoy neighborhoods where the sea, parks, and cafés blend naturally, Florya is one of the best stops along the coast toward Yeşilköy.
Things to Do, Places to See
Florya is one of those neighborhoods where you can fill a whole day without ever feeling rushed. Everything sits close to the sea, wrapped in greenery and calm air. Visitors often describe it as one of Istanbul’s most relaxing coastal pockets, and after walking it yourself, you’ll understand why.
Atatürk Marine Mansion
This is Florya’s most iconic historical landmark. Built in 1935 for Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the mansion stands directly over the water on elegant wooden stilts. Inside, the rooms remain exactly as they were during his stays, reflecting Atatürk’s modest style and love for the sea.
The mansion is now a museum and offers a thoughtful look into how Atatürk spent his summers. It’s quiet, atmospheric, and ideal for anyone who enjoys stepping into a preserved moment of history.
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Late afternoon visits feel extra special thanks to the soft Marmara light entering through the wide windows.
Aqua Florya Shopping Mall
Aqua Florya is more than a mall. It spills directly onto the shore with restaurants facing the waves and balconies overlooking the Marmara Sea. Many visitors combine a walk along the coast with a meal here, since you can sit by the water and stay for sunset.
Inside, you’ll find international brands, a cinema, plenty of cafés, and direct access to the Istanbul Aquarium. Weekends tend to be busy, so mornings are calmer.
Istanbul Aquarium
The Istanbul Aquarium is one of the largest thematic aquariums in Europe. Spread across 17 themed zones, it takes you from the Black Sea to the Pacific through immersive corridors filled with sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, coral reefs, and tropical fish.
Families love it for the interactive displays and wide walkways that make it easy to explore with kids. Adults enjoy it just as much for the vivid underwater photography spots and the well-curated habitats.
If you’re looking for an indoor activity that still feels connected to nature, this one is a perfect pick.
Florya Atatürk Forest & Park
Just a short walk from the shoreline, the Atatürk Forest is one of Florya’s peaceful green lungs. Locals come here to run, walk, picnic, or simply sit under the tall trees. You’ll find long paths shaded by pine and cypress, open fields for families, and plenty of quiet places to unwind.
It’s a soothing break from Istanbul’s faster districts, especially if you visit in the morning or just before sunset.
Florya Coast
Florya Coast is the neighborhood’s biggest treasure. Wide paths stretch along the Marmara Sea, perfect for walking, cycling, or finding a bench and letting the breeze do the talking. On calm days, the water feels almost glassy, and sunset here is one of the best along the Bakırköy shoreline.
Children’s playgrounds, fitness stations, and open lawns make it ideal for all ages. Many cafés sit right by the water, so you can pause for tea or dinner without losing the view.
İBB Florya Social Facilities
One of the best places in the area for a sea-view meal at fair prices. The restaurant and café overlook the water, and the large outdoor seating area makes it a favorite for families. The facilities include a swimming pool and sports areas too, so it’s a popular stop for both leisure and activity.
Florya Leroz Entertainment Center
If you’re traveling with kids or teenagers, Leroz is an easy way to add fun to your day. The center includes arcade-style games, children’s play areas, and cinema halls. Adults often enjoy the atmosphere too, especially on days when you want a break from walking outdoors.
Florya Beaches
Florya is one of the rare Istanbul neighbohoods where you can actually enjoy a clean stretch of beach without leaving the city. The coastline here is calmer than the busier Marmara spots, and the water quality is noticeably better during the summer months.
Locals come for sun, sea, and a full day outdoors, while visitors appreciate how easy it is to reach compared to more remote beaches.
The two main options in the area are Florya Güneş Beach, run by the municipality, and Menekşe Beach in nearby Küçükçekmece. Both offer simple but comfortable facilities, and they remain among the most popular summer escapes on the European side.
Florya Güneş Beach
Florya Güneş Beach is the star of the area. It sits right on the Bakırköy coast and is one of the most organized beaches on the Marmara Sea. Managed by İBB, it operates with a secure gated entry and offers everything you need for a full beach day: clean restrooms, functioning showers, changing cabins, a café, and lifeguard services.
The sand is soft, the sea is usually calm, and there’s plenty of room to spread out. Sunbeds and umbrellas from BELTUR make things even easier, especially if you’re spending several hours by the water.
Families love it because the shallow entry makes it safe for kids, while groups of friends enjoy the wide promenade and beach sports areas.
If you want a simple, clean, city-accessible beach without the long drive, this one is hard to beat.
Küçükçekmece Menekşe Beach
Just a bit further along the coast toward Küçükçekmece, Menekşe Beach offers a quieter alternative. It operates with a partial service model, meaning the essentials like open showers and restrooms are provided by Boğaziçi Yönetim AŞ, and BELTUR handles sunbed and umbrella rentals.
Menekşe has more of a neighborhood feel. You’ll see families, local swimmers, and people who come here simply to relax on peaceful summer afternoons. The beach is wide and sandy, the sea is generally clean, and there’s plenty of space for those who prefer a less crowded spot.
Nearby cafés make it easy to grab a drink or snack between swims, and the breezy coastline is lovely for evening walks.
Where to Eat and Drink in Florya
Florya has always been one of Istanbul’s classic dining neighborhoods. Locals come here for seaside breakfasts, long lunches with a view, and relaxed evening meals by the Marmara breeze. Thanks to its coastline, malls, and long-established restaurants, you’ll find plenty of choices ranging from casual cafés to iconic seafood spots.
The area surrounding Aqua Florya and the Ataköy–Florya coast is the most popular place for dining. Visitors appreciate the ease of access, the sea-view terraces, and the variety of cuisines. Below are some of the most loved places to help you plan where to eat.
Seafood and Classic Istanbul Dining
Florya has several long-standing restaurants known for fresh fish, mezes, and that unmistakable Istanbul seaside atmosphere.
Beyti Restaurant
Located technically in nearby Şenlikköy but widely associated with Florya dining culture, Beyti is one of Istanbul’s legendary restaurants. Known for its impeccable service and beautifully prepared meats, it’s a special-occasion spot.
Florya Sosyal Tesisleri (İBB)
A favorite among locals who want good quality at reasonable prices. The terrace looks directly over the sea, making it perfect for sunset meals. Expect Turkish classics, grills, and mezes.
Cafés and Light Bites Along the Coast
If you prefer something more casual, the walking path is lined with cafés offering pastries, grills, and tea with a view.
Aqua Florya Cafés
Inside and around the mall, you’ll find coffee chains and independent cafés with outdoor seating. They’re popular for quick bites, brunches, and ice cream after an aquarium visit.
Coastal Tea Gardens
Simple, budget friendly, and directly by the sea. These spots are perfect for sipping tea, trying simit, and relaxing as planes descend toward Istanbul Airport.
Visitors often mention on TripAdvisor that Aqua Florya is an excellent choice if you want a mix of food options without leaving the coastline.
Shopping in Florya
Florya is one of the most pleasant neighborhoods in Istanbul for relaxed, upscale shopping. Instead of crowded bazaars or hectic high streets, you’ll find modern malls, boutique stores, and sea-view promenades where shopping feels calm and enjoyable.
It’s a great area for travelers who want familiar international brands mixed with local touches, all within a clean and organized setting.
Aqua Florya Shopping Mall
Aqua Florya is the heart of shopping in this neighborhood. Set right by the sea, the mall blends retail with lifestyle in a way that feels refreshing compared to inner-city malls.
What you’ll find inside:
- International and Turkish fashion brands
- Stylish cafes with terraces facing the Marmara Sea
- Restaurants serving everything from seafood to Turkish comfort food
- A cinema complex
- Direct access to the Istanbul Aquarium, making it ideal for families
You can easily spend a few hours here, especially around sunset when the mall’s seaside promenade fills with visitors taking photos or sipping coffee by the water.
Boutique Shops and Local Stores
Around the residential streets of Florya, you’ll come across boutique stores selling designer clothing, accessories, home decor, and handcrafted items. These shops appeal to travelers looking for higher quality pieces compared to mass-market mall brands.
The area near Şenlikköy and the coastal road has:
- Stylish clothing stores
- Jewelry boutiques
- Artisan home goods shops
- Local bakeries and gourmet markets
It’s the kind of neighborhood where you step into a store for a quick look and end up buying a few thoughtful gifts.
Nearby Shopping Options
If you want an expanded shopping day, Florya is close to:
- Capacity Mall (Bakırköy)
- Carousel Mall (Bakırköy)
Both offer hundreds of stores, food courts, and easy connections via public transport.
“If you’re planning to shop for souvenirs or gifts, do it in Florya rather than the Historic Peninsula. Prices are calmer, shopkeepers are relaxed, and you can enjoy the sea breeze between stores.”
Where to Stay in Florya
Florya is one of those rare Istanbul neighborhoods where you can enjoy quiet coastal living while still feeling close to the city.
Hotels here appeal to travelers who prefer peaceful mornings, sea views, and easy access to the airport and attractions like the Istanbul Aquarium and Aqua Florya Mall. Most stays are modern, spacious, and geared toward guests who want comfort without the chaos of central districts.
The area generally suits couples, families, and anyone who wants a relaxing base after busy sightseeing days. If your plan includes long Bosphorus evenings, nightlife, or historic peninsula attractions, you can still reach them easily thanks to Marmaray.
You’ll find a mix of luxury hotels, boutique stays, and seafront properties. Some offer spa facilities, pools, and restaurants overlooking the Marmara Sea.
“Florya works best if you want a quiet coastal base with fast access to the airport. If your trip is built around the Old City or nightlife, consider staying central and visiting Florya for a half-day instead.”
Perfect Half-Day Itinerary for Florya
A half day in Florya feels like a mini coastal getaway inside Istanbul. It is calm, green, breezy, and perfect for visitors who want a slower rhythm after exploring the busy Historical Peninsula. This itinerary works well in the morning or late afternoon, depending on whether you want softer light for photos or a seaside sunset.
Start with the Atatürk Marine Mansion
Begin your route with one of Florya’s most meaningful landmarks. The Atatürk Marine Mansion sits gracefully over the Marmara Sea, and visiting it feels like stepping into a quiet moment from 1930s Istanbul. The museum tour is short, so you won’t lose time, but the atmosphere leaves a lasting impression.
Take a short walk around the surrounding gardens before heading to your next stop.
Walk the Florya Coastline
From the mansion, follow the coastline. The path is wide, smooth, and full of fresh sea air. You’ll pass locals jogging, families on bikes, and couples enjoying the view.
If you prefer a longer stroll, continue toward Florya Atatürk Forest. The shaded paths are perfect for a short nature break.
Choose Your Highlight Stop: Aquarium or Beach
Depending on your mood, go for one of these two:
Option A: Istanbul Aquarium
One of the most impressive aquariums in Europe, located beside Aqua Florya Mall. The themed sections make it fun and immersive, especially for families.
Option B: Florya Güneş Beach
If the weather is warm, end your walk by dipping your feet into the Marmara Sea or relaxing on the sandy beach. It is clean, organized, and run by the municipality.
“If you want the quietest time at Güneş Beach, arrive before lunch. Afternoons get lively.”
Finish at Aqua Florya with a Sea-View Meal
No Florya visit feels complete without stopping at Aqua Florya Mall, even briefly.
Its open-air terraces look directly over the sea, giving you one of the best casual dining scenes in the district.
If you came for the aquarium, you’ll already be here, so it fits naturally into the route.
How Long This Itinerary Takes
- Atatürk Marine Mansion: 30–45 minutes
- Coastal walk: 30–40 minutes
- Aquarium or beach: 1–1.5 hours
- Meal or coffee: 45 minutes
Total: 3–4 hours, depending on your pace.
How to Get to Florya?
Reaching Florya is easier than most visitors expect. The neighborhood sits along the Marmara Sea in Bakırköy and is connected by several public transport options. Whether you are coming from Sultanahmet, Taksim, or the airport, the journey is simple and smooth.
From Sultanahmet or Eminönü
This is the fastest and most comfortable way.
- Take the Marmaray from Sirkeci Station
- Ride westbound toward Halkalı
- Get off at Florya Station or Yeşilyurt Station (both are close to the coast)
Walking time to the seaside: 10 to 12 minutes depending on where you get off.
From Taksim or Beyoğlu
- Take the M2 metro to Yenikapı
- Transfer to the Marmaray
- Continue to Florya Station
This combination is usually faster and avoids traffic.
From Istanbul Airport (IST)
- Take Havaist IST 5 to Bakırköy
- From Bakırköy, a short taxi ride (10 minutes) will take you directly to Florya
From Kadıköy or Üsküdar
- Take the Marmaray toward Halkalı
- Get off at Florya Station
Travel time:
- Kadıköy to Florya: around 35 minutes
- Üsküdar to Florya: around 30 minutes
This is one of the easiest cross-continent journeys in Istanbul.
Getting Around Inside Florya
Once you arrive, most places are walkable:
- Istanbul Aquarium: 10 minutes from Florya Station
- Aqua Florya Mall: right next to the aquarium
- Atatürk Marine Mansion: 10 to 15 minutes along the coast
- Florya Atatürk Forest: short walk from the coastline
- Florya Güneş Beach: 10 minutes from the main promenade
Taxis are available but usually unnecessary unless you are going between Florya and Ataköy or Yeşilköy.