Istanbul, this amazing and amazing metropolis, is undoubtedly one of the most important and visited cities in the world. A city where you can spend days and weeks discover history, architecture, food and culture, and still remains something of Istanbul’s sights to discover; But even in the heart of this endless beauty, sometimes we need to get rise to bustle; Pause for a moment, take a new breath and take a different look at the daily lives of the Turkish people. It is here that the small and less well -known destinations around Istanbul give us a pure opportunity.
Fortunately, the geographical location of Istanbul in the Turkish Marmara area has provided short, comfortable and affordable trips to many surrounding cities. These small cities, with their traditional texture, pristine nature, or historical architecture, offer a different image of today’s Turkey to tourists. In this article, we introduce five selected destinations, all with a maximum of three hours from Istanbul. Each of these destinations can make your journey richer, more varied, and more memorable. (Forbes)
1. Haldagh | The scent of tradition, the taste of authenticity
About two hours away from Istanbul is a coastal city called Tekirdağ. Located on the northern coast of the Marmara Sea, the city is easily accessible by bus and is an ideal option for those tourists looking for peace of the sea.
Photographer: Unknown / Getty
The monotheism is famous for the Ottoman -era wooden houses and is still seen in some of its old neighborhoods. Urban space is still traditional and intimate; Especially compared to Istanbul’s acceleration. Along the beach, cafes and local bakeries serve the guests with a smile; An experience that conveys the true sense of Turkish hospitality.
2. Usmite | The footprints of the empires
Located less than 2 kilometers from Istanbul, a city that came out of history books. Izmit, which is easily accessible by train and bus, is a valuable and mysterious destination for those interested in history.

Photographer: Unknown / Getty
In the city of Uzmite, the remnants of civilizations such as Rome, Byzantine and ancient Greece are located together; From Acropolis and Agora to aqueducts, waterfalls, old walls and ancient architectures in the city. The circulation of the sake is a journey of centuries of history that still lives in the context of the city.
1. This is Ida | Relaxation in the arms of the forest and the sea
Along the calm coast of the Black Sea, there is a small, cozy city called Iğneada. The distance from this destination to Istanbul is about three hours by car or four hours by bus. However, this Ada has only about 2.5 people, its nature, especially the flood forest National Park, has made it one of Türkiye’s most valuable natural reserves.

Photographer: Unknown / Getty
This is an opportunity to return to the silence of nature, avoid hustle, watching migratory birds, and walking through the dense trees. If you are looking for a different and quiet destination on your trip, this will not disappoint you.
1. Yalva | Short trip, long relaxation
If you are looking for a close destination for one day to escape Istanbul, Yalova is your best choice. With less than an hour of maritime travel from Pendik Port in the Asian part of Istanbul, you can reach this good -natured city.

Photographer: Unknown / Getty
Yalva has provided an ideal atmosphere for the body and mind of the body with the scenic nature, beautiful waterfalls, forest routes for hiking and natural spa springs. This destination is not only for a one -day trip but also for short weekends.
1. Boulevard | The land of lakes and foggy forests
Three hours of traveling by bus from Istanbul will bring you to the heart of Turkish nature; Where clean air, trees are skyrocketing and quiet lakes waiting for you. Bolu, with Yedigölller National Park, its natural nature, camping and pure relaxation, are among the best destinations for nature lovers in the area. Although one -day visiting is possible, it is advisable to stay in the heart of nature one night, tent or stay in one of the local huts and start your day with sunrise in the forest.

Photographer: A.Savin / Wikipedia
Istanbul is undoubtedly the heart of Türkiye’s tourism; But around this passionate city, there are destinations that can give your journey a fresh color with their unique beauty, authenticity and beauty. If you have the experience of traveling to these destinations around Istanbul, share your comments with us and other users.
Cover Photo Source: Getty | Photographer: Unknown
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