Car Rental for Vacation in Istanbul: Most Popular Areas and Places to Visit
- Historical Peninsula (Sultanahmet) The heart of Istanbul is the Historical Peninsula, also known as Sultanahmet. Renting a car makes it easier to visit the historical sites in this area, including Sultanahmet Square, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque. Especially in the early hours when traffic is less intense, exploring this area by car can be a very pleasant experience.
Places to Visit:
- Hagia Sophia
- Blue Mosque
- Topkapi Palace
- Basilica Cistern
- Hippodrome
- Beyoğlu and Taksim Square Beyoğlu is one of Istanbul's most dynamic and lively neighborhoods. Taksim Square, Istiklal Street, and the surrounding cafes, galleries, and shops are well-known. Renting a car to explore this area offers much more freedom compared to buses and trams. Remember, Taksim Square and its surroundings are particularly vibrant in the evening.
Places to Visit:
- Istiklal Street
- Taksim Square
- Galata Tower
- Pera Museum
- Flower Passage
- Bosphorus Tour and Palaces The Bosphorus in Istanbul showcases many beautiful structures and palaces on both the Asian and European sides. Renting a car allows you to travel along the Bosphorus, visiting neighborhoods such as Ortaköy, Bebek, and Arnavutköy. Additionally, visiting palaces like Dolmabahçe and Beylerbeyi becomes easier with a rental car.
Places to Visit:
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Beylerbeyi Palace
- Ortaköy
- Bebek
- Çırağan Palace
- Kadıköy and Moda Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Kadıköy is popular for its modern cafes, art galleries, and shopping opportunities. Moda, with its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful coastline, offers a relaxing walk. By renting a car, you can easily explore both Kadıköy and Moda.
Places to Visit:
- Kadıköy Market
- Moda Coast
- Haydarpaşa Train Station
- Fenerbahçe Park
- Kadıköy Art Galleries
- Princes' Islands For a quick getaway from the city, the Princes' Islands are an excellent choice. These islands are famous for their sea views and historical charm. However, you need to take a ferry to reach the islands, and cars are not allowed on the ferry. By renting a car in Istanbul, you can explore the city’s enjoyable spots before heading to the islands, where you can explore by bicycle or horse-drawn carriage.
Places to Visit:
- Büyükada
- Heybeliada
- Burgazada
- Kınalıada
- Şile and Ağva For those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of Istanbul and enjoy nature, Şile and Ağva are perfect options. These areas are especially famous for their beaches and natural beauty during the summer months. By renting a car, you can easily reach Şile, and spend a relaxing day in the green spaces and along the riversides in Ağva.
Places to Visit:
- Şile Lighthouse
- Ağva Lakes
- Kilimli Cove
- Şile Beach
- Ağva River
- Istanbul’s Natural Beauties Istanbul is not only known for its historical and cultural heritage but also for its natural beauty. By heading towards the north of Istanbul, you can discover natural paradises such as Belgrad Forest, Polonezköy, and Kemerburgaz. These areas are perfect for hiking, picnicking, or simply enjoying nature.
Places to Visit:
- Belgrad Forest
- Polonezköy
- Kemerburgaz
- Istanbul Botanical Garden
