Places to Visit Around Istanbul with Rental Cars from Sabiha Gökçen Airport
1. Şile and Ağva: Enjoy the Natural Beauty
Located just 1.5 hours away from Sabiha Gökçen Airport, Şile and Ağva are perfect options for those who want to experience Istanbul's natural beauty. Şile is famous for its beautiful beaches and the historic Şile Lighthouse. Ağva, situated between the Göksu and Yeşilçay rivers, offers a peaceful getaway. You can enjoy nature walks, swim in the sea, and relax with stunning views.
2. Polonezköy: A Day Surrounded by Nature
Polonezköy is located just 30 minutes from Istanbul and offers a natural retreat close to the city. It is a village founded by Polish immigrants, and you can find buildings and dishes reflecting Polish culture here. With its nature trails, picnic areas, and green spaces, it's an ideal spot for a day immersed in nature. You can also try Polish cuisine in the local restaurants.
3. Büyükçekmece and Coastal Villages: Where History Meets Nature
Büyükçekmece, located about 1 hour from Sabiha Gökçen Airport, is a place that offers both seaside beauty and historical richness. In Büyükçekmece, you can enjoy the beach, take walks along the shore, and savor seafood in various seaside restaurants. You can also enjoy a walk around Büyükçekmece Lake, which is great for nature lovers who want to explore Istanbul's surroundings.
4. Yalova: Thermal Springs and a Nature Paradise
Yalova, located about 1.5 hours from Istanbul, is famous for its thermal springs and natural beauty. You can relax in thermal hotels, visit historical sites like Sefa Sirri Pasha and the Yalova Atatürk Mansion, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the coastal villages. Yalova is perfect for those looking for both relaxation and exploration.
5. Kocaeli and Kartepe: A Getaway Among the Mountains and Nature
Kocaeli is about 1 hour away from Sabiha Gökçen Airport, and Kartepe is especially popular as a ski resort during winter. Kartepe is a perfect destination for nature lovers, offering opportunities for both winter sports and summer hiking. In addition to skiing, you can also enjoy scenic viewpoints and lakes in the area.
6. İznik: A Place Full of Historical Richness
İznik, located about 1.5 hours from Istanbul, is a city full of historical monuments. İznik is famous for its Roman and Byzantine-era structures. You can take a walk along the shore of Lake İznik, visit the historic city walls, and explore the İznik Museum, which houses some of the largest mosaics in the world. İznik is a perfect destination for both history buffs and nature lovers.
7. Çınarcık: A Summer Paradise
Located about 2 hours from Istanbul, Çınarcık is a popular seaside resort on the coast of the Sea of Marmara. In Çınarcık, you can enjoy the sun, sea, and sand, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect place to relax. You can take walks along the beach, swim, and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea.