Time to Meet Nature: Forests of Istanbul

In big cities especially known for being crowded such as Istanbul after the tiredness of the week, rest and the need to finding peace in an area full of greenery arises. It is possible to enjoy the forests of Istanbul at the weekend without getting too far from your home. You can start to read and review our content of forested areas of Istanbul, which we have compiled from all over Istanbul for you, and you can start to make your plans for the weekend. Hope it would be a joyous reading.

Belgrad Forest

Belgrad Forest, which is one of the first places that comes to mind when the forest is mentioned on the European Side, is located at the far east end of the Çatalca Peninsula. Belgrade Forest used to use for drinking water resources in both the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. The Belgrade forest took its name after settling the Belgraders at the end of the Suleiman the Magnificent's expedition to Serbia. There are thousands of different types of plants in the forest, which is affected by both Mediterranean and Central European climates. At the same time, since hunting is prohibited in the region, tens of different types of animals can also live in the forest. Especially if you want to have fresh air, do sports or have a picnic you can have a good time with your family in Belgrad Forest.

Valentine Forest

The Valentine Forest, which is the continuation of the Belgrad Forest, is especially frequented by couples. The forest, located in the Pirincci Village of Eyup district and the Istiklal district in Arnavutköy district, is an ideal place for a picnic.

Ataturk Arboretum

One of the most popular green areas on the European Side is Ataturk Arboretum. The arboretum is the name given to the place where studies are carried out to grow and protect wood plants belonging to the tree or tree family. Atatürk Arboretum, which is established on a very large area connected to the Belgrad Forest, is an indispensable location for those who want to enjoy the green. There is also a natural lake and thousands various of tree species in the arboretum. It is forbidden that bring food and drink to the arboretum and there is no restaurant or cafe inside of it. Since bringing a water bottle is forbidden it is good to supply your needs of water prior. Entrance to the park, which is open between 09.00 and 17.00 on weekdays and weekends, is paid.

Alemdag Forest

As on the European Side. There are beautiful forests on the Anatolian Side as well. One of them is Alemdağ Forest. Alemdağ Forest, located on the line between Üsküdar and Şile, is located in Çekmeköy district. The Alemdağ Forest, which was formed by the rocks that emerged in the Paleozoic and Devonian periods, is one of the oxygen reservoirs of the Anatolian Side with the vegetation covering it. There is also a picnic area in the forest, which is located on the second-highest hill of Istanbul.

Tasdelen Forest

Taşdelen Forest, also within the borders of Çekmeköy district, is located between Alemdağ and Taşlıtepe forests. It is covered by covered with pine, oak, beech, and fir trees furthermore it is a very quiet picnic spot. The real richness that highlights this beauty spread over 800 decares is the famous crystal clear Taşdelen Water flowing from the fountains in the forest.

Aydos Forest

Do you want to run away from the city and enjoy an oxygen-rich area? Then Aydos Forest is just for you. Aydos Forest, offers all sorts of beautiful views of all seasons to visitors, is perfect to have a quiet weekend with its nature and silence. You can go hiking, cycling, or doing other sports deep into the forest located on the Anatolian Side. Aydos lake is also located in this forest. If you prefer, you can rent a pedalo and have a pleasant tour on the lake. There are also picnic areas in Aydos Forest where families can spend time. You can climb to Aydos Hill and see the legendary beauty view of Istanbul from a bird's eye view after you have your picnic.

Ayhan Sahenk Love Forest

It is a forest located on the Anatolian side, near the Black Sea coast, and created by the Ayhan Şahenk Foundation. The forest, which started to be created on an area of approximately 15 hectares in the area of responsibility of the Kanlıca Forestry Directorate, is located between the villages of Karakiraz in Şile and Kılıçlı in Beykoz.

Kayısdagi Forest

Located on the Anatolian side, between Ataşehir and Maltepe districts, Kayışdağı forest is surrounded by settlements and Yeditepe University. It is located at the west of the Kayışdağı-Başıbüyük-Aydos forest line. There are hiking parks and picnic areas around the forest. If you live in a location that closes to Kayışdağı Forest, you can do your sports with the fresh air.

Suleiman the Magnificent City Forest

Located between Istanbul Beykoz and Ümraniye and formerly known as the Istanbul City Forest, it is now known as the Suleiman the Magnificent City Forest that took its name after a sultan and is known as the largest picnic area in Istanbul. The O-2 Motorway, which connects to the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, passes in the middle of the forest, which spreads to the shores of Elmalı Dam. The forest, where families can have fun with its 11 km hiking track, picnic and barbecue areas, is frequently preferred by Istanbul residents who want to spend a quiet weekend with the ease of transportation.