Car Rental in Istanbul: Which Routes Have the Least Traffic?
1. Routes with Less Traffic on the Asian Side
The Asian Side of Istanbul generally has a calmer and less congested traffic compared to the European Side. If you're planning to rent a car and go for a pleasant tour, the routes on the Asian Side are ideal! Here are some routes with less traffic:
Kadıköy - Moda
The road from Kadıköy to Moda is usually quite calm, especially during weekday mornings. Moda is famous for its cozy cafes and sea view. You can easily park and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Istanbul here. Additionally, Kadıköy’s central areas and major shopping streets are easily accessible by car.
Üsküdar - Çengelköy
The road from Üsküdar to Çengelköy is typically peaceful and less congested. Çengelköy is famous for its historical buildings and serene atmosphere by the sea. You can easily travel on this route and explore one of Istanbul’s more tranquil residential areas.
Beykoz - Riva
The drive from Beykoz to Riva is an ideal opportunity to explore one of Istanbul’s natural beauties. This route is generally quiet and offers a stress-free journey. Riva’s beach and the natural environment make it an excellent destination for nature walks and relaxation.
2. Routes with Less Traffic on the European Side
Even on the European Side of Istanbul, there are routes with less traffic, especially in the early morning hours and weekdays. If you're renting a car to explore the European Side, consider the following routes:
Beşiktaş - Arnavutköy
The road from Beşiktaş to Arnavutköy, particularly in the early mornings or late evenings, is often less crowded. This route offers a smooth drive through historical neighborhoods with beautiful views of the Bosphorus. Arnavutköy itself is a quiet area with plenty of opportunities for walking along the seaside.
Beylikdüzü - Avcılar
The road between Beylikdüzü and Avcılar is another route known for its relatively low traffic. Especially on weekdays, the traffic here tends to be lighter, allowing for a more relaxed drive. Avcılar, with its Marmara coastline, offers a pleasant drive with beautiful sea views.
Şişli - Maslak
Traveling from Şişli to Maslak is usually less congested during the morning hours. Even though Maslak is Istanbul's commercial and business hub, traffic tends to ease during the evening hours. This route is perfect if you’re interested in exploring the city's commercial and cultural center.
3. Tips to Avoid Traffic in Istanbul
Here are some strategies to avoid heavy traffic while renting a car in Istanbul:
- Travel Early in the Morning: Traffic in Istanbul is generally calmer during the early hours. Traveling early will help you avoid heavy traffic.
- Drive During Weekdays: Traffic is usually lighter on weekdays, especially outside of working hours, compared to weekends.
- Use Traffic Apps: Using traffic apps like Google Maps or Waze can help you avoid traffic jams by suggesting the fastest routes and detours.
