Car Rental from Sabiha Gökçen Airport and Discovering Istanbul's Best Coastal Villages

Why You Should Rent a Car from Sabiha Gökçen Airport?

Sabiha Gökçen Airport, located on the Asian side of Istanbul, is convenient for travelers who want to explore both the Asian and European sides of the city. Renting a car at the airport will save you time and provide the freedom to easily visit Istanbul's surrounding coastal villages. By renting a car, you can escape the city's heavy traffic and enjoy a comfortable drive to the stunning coastal towns.

Best Coastal Villages Around Istanbul

Istanbul's coastal villages are not only known for their natural beauty but also for their atmosphere, which reflects the traditional Turkish way of life. Renting a car will allow you to explore these hidden gems with ease. Here are a few of the most amazing coastal villages you can discover with a car rental.

1. Şile

Located on the northern side of Istanbul, Şile is famous for its beaches, clear waters, and peaceful atmosphere. It's a perfect weekend getaway with its long, sandy beaches. You can also visit Şile Lighthouse and Şile Castle, two of the area’s most famous historical landmarks. The drive from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Şile takes around 1.5 hours.

2. Ağva

Ağva is a coastal village located near Şile, between the Yeşilçay and Göksu Rivers. Known for its natural beauty and tranquil environment, Ağva is ideal for those looking to spend some peaceful time in nature. It takes approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to drive from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Ağva.

3. Princes' Islands (Adalar)

The Princes' Islands are a group of islands in the Sea of Marmara, and Büyükada is the most famous of them. While you don’t need to rent a car to get to the islands, you can easily reach the ferry terminals from Istanbul’s city center by car, then take a ferry to the islands. It takes about 1 hour by ferry from the city center to reach the islands.

4. Kilyos

Kilyos, located on Istanbul's northern coast by the Black Sea, is a popular summer destination due to its wide beaches and clean waters. The drive from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Kilyos takes about 1 hour. Kilyos offers a quiet escape from the city and is perfect for those seeking a relaxing beach experience.

5. Büyükçekmece

Located on the western side of Istanbul, Büyükçekmece is another great coastal town with a long beach and plenty of seaside restaurants. It's a popular destination in the summer, with many modern amenities and a relaxing atmosphere. You can reach Büyükçekmece in about 1 hour from Sabiha Gökçen Airport.

6. Riva

Riva, a small town on Istanbul’s Black Sea coast, is one of the city's hidden gems. Known for its natural beauty, Riva offers a great getaway with its peaceful atmosphere and historical sites. The drive from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Riva takes approximately 1 hour.

Tips for Renting a Car from Sabiha Gökçen Airport

1. Book Early: Especially during the summer months, booking your car rental in advance will help you get better prices and secure the car you prefer.

2. Make Sure Your Driving Documents Are Complete: To rent a car in Turkey, you need a valid driving license and a credit card. International drivers' licenses are recommended for smoother travel.

3. Use Navigation and Maps: For easy access to coastal villages, make sure to use a GPS device or a map app. Some car rental companies also offer navigation devices as part of the rental.

4. Choose the Right Vehicle: If you're planning on a long drive, choose a spacious and comfortable car. This will make your trip much more enjoyable.

5. Drive Carefully: Traffic in Istanbul can be challenging, so it's important to drive carefully and follow the traffic rules. Some coastal towns have narrow streets and steep slopes, so be cautious when driving in these areas.