Istanbul Nature Itinerary in July 2023

1. Day 1: Belgrad Forest
   1-hour drive from Istanbul

   In the morning, explore the lush greenery of Belgrad Forest, a vast woodland filled with hiking trails and picnic areas. Afternoon, visit the historic Sadberk Hanim Museum. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Turkish meal at the nearby Liman Restaurant.

2. Day 2: Istinye Park
   30 minutes (8 miles) from Belgrad Forest

   Start the day with a stroll around the picturesque Emirgan Park before heading to Istinye Park, a large shopping and entertainment center on the banks of the Bosphorus. In the evening, watch the sunset from the nearby Rumeli Fortress.

3. Day 3: Princes' Islands
   1-hour ferry ride from Istanbul

   Explore the four main car-free islands of Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada, each with their own unique charm and natural beauty. Take a horse-drawn carriage tour, rent a bike, or hike the trails. Enjoy a seafood dinner overlooking the sea before taking the ferry back to Istanbul.

4. Day 4: Belgrad Ormanı
   45 minutes (9.5 miles) from Princes' Islands Ferry Terminal

   In the morning, visit the Sakip Sabanci Museum, housed in a stunning waterfront mansion. Afternoon, head to Belgrad Ormanı for a picnic or hike. In the evening, watch the sun set over the Bosphorus from the beautiful Bebek Park.

5. Day 5: Polonezköy
   1-hour drive from Istanbul

   Explore the charming village of Polonezköy, settled by Polish immigrants in the 19th century. Visit the Butterfly Valley, where you can see hundreds of species of butterflies. In the evening, visit the nearby Şile lighthouse and beach.

6. Day 6: Belgrade Forest National Park
   40 minutes (12 miles) from Polonezköy

   Visit the Belgrade Forest National Park, home to a variety of wildlife and over 60 species of birds. Take a guided nature walk or hike one of the many trails. In the evening, head to the nearby Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge for a stunning panoramic view of the city.

7. Day 7: Ağva
   1.5-hour drive from Istanbul

   End your trip with a visit to the coastal town of Ağva. Hike the beautiful Göksu Delta, visit the lovely Mencilis Cave, or spend the day relaxing on the beach. In the evening, enjoy traditional Turkish meze and raki at the iconic Nato Lokantası.

Recommendations

Other local attractions you may want to consider include the Istanbul Modern Art Museum, the stunning Yıldız Park, and the lively Ortaköy neighborhood. You could also take a day trip to the historic city of Edirne, home to Ottoman-era architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Sadberk Hanim Museum (2 hours, 50 TL)
• Liman Restaurant (2 hours, 150 TL)
• Emirgan Park (2 hours, free)
• Rumeli Fortress (2 hours, 20 TL)
• Princes' Island Ferry (full day, 25 TL)
• Sakip Sabanci Museum (2 hours, 40 TL)
• Sunset at Bebek Park (1 hour, free)
• Butterfly Valley (1 hour, 10 TL)
• Belgrade Forest National Park Guided Walk (3 hours, 50 TL)
• Nato Lokantası (2 hours, 100 TL)
• Total Estimated Costs: 505 TL (excluding accommodation and transportation)

Check https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo for the best hotel and flight deals for your trip.