Wondering how to enjoy a weekend in Istanbul without a car and avoid the crowds? You’re in the right place! This guide offers a peaceful and scenic itinerary you can easily follow using public transport. Let’s uncover Istanbul’s hidden tranquility together.
📍 Starting Point: Üsküdar
🕰️ Estimated Time: 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM (Full day)
🚶♂️ Route: Üsküdar — Polonezköy — Kuzguncuk — Burgazada
Morning: Nature and Peaceful Walks in Polonezköy (9:00 AM)
One of the best escapes from Istanbul’s noise and crowds is Polonezköy Nature Park. You can take a bus from Üsküdar and enjoy a serene morning walk surrounded by birdsong and fresh air.
📸 Photo Spot: Wooden bridge and forest trails.
📷 Shooting Tip: Take advantage of the morning sunlight behind you to create natural bokeh through the leaves.
📱 For Instagram: Capture wide-angle shots of the lush greenery and peaceful paths.
After your walk, relax with a traditional village-style breakfast at one of the small family-run cafés in Polonezköy.
Noon: History and Coffee Break in Kuzguncuk (12:30 PM)
Return to Üsküdar from Polonezköy, then enjoy a short stroll along the coast to reach Kuzguncuk—a charming neighborhood filled with history and quiet streets. Grab fresh pastries and tea at one of the local cafés for a light lunch break.
📸 Photo Spot: Colorful houses and narrow streets of Kuzguncuk.
📷 Shooting Tip: Use natural light to highlight the pastel tones of the walls.
📱 For Instagram: Focus on detailed shots against the vibrant, colorful walls.
If you like, take a short walk from Kuzguncuk to Nakkaştepe Millet Garden to enjoy seaside views and peaceful nature in the afternoon.
Evening: Sunset at Burgazada (5:00 PM)
End your day on Burgazada, reachable by a one-hour ferry from Kadıköy or Bostancı. The island has no motor vehicles, guaranteeing a quiet atmosphere. Sit by the shore and watch the sunset—a perfect way to experience calm in Istanbul.
📸 Photo Spot: Kalpazankaya viewpoint at sunset.
📷 Shooting Tip: Capture silhouettes against the horizon and soft pastel colors.
📱 For Instagram: Romantic combinations of island houses and sea views.
Bonus: Evening Walk at Moda Coast (7:30 PM)
If you want, after Burgazada, head back to Kadıköy and take a peaceful walk along Moda Coast. Even on weekends, this seaside promenade remains relatively quiet in the evening.
🚀 Alternatives:
- Walk at Kalamış Park
- Bike ride along Caddebostan Coast
Location and Map
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