Living on Istanbul’s European Side and wondering how to enjoy a peaceful weekend without a car or the busy crowds? You’re in the right place! Here’s a carefully planned itinerary with public transport connections that takes you to some of Istanbul’s quietest and most beautiful hidden gems.
📍 Starting Point: Taksim
🕰️ Estimated Time: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Full day)
🚶♂️ Route: Taksim — Emirgan — Rumeli Feneri — Sarıyer
Morning: Nature and Breakfast at Emirgan Park (9:00 AM)
From Taksim, you can easily reach Emirgan Park by bus or metro towards Sarıyer. Especially on weekday mornings, the park is peaceful and full of lush green walking paths.
🍽️ Breakfast Recommendation: Classic Turkish breakfast at the cafés inside the park.
📸 Photo Spot: Tulip gardens with Bosphorus views.
📷 Shooting Tip: Capture the soft morning light highlighting the colorful tulips and blue waters.
📱 For Instagram: Colorful flowers framed by the shimmering Bosphorus.
Noon: Sea and Serenity at Rumeli Feneri (12:30 PM)
From Emirgan, take a 15-20 minute bus or minibus ride to Rumeli Feneri, a quiet fishing village away from the crowds. Enjoy a light lunch with fresh fish and mezes by the shore, followed by a peaceful seaside walk.
🍽️ Food Stop: Fresh fish and traditional mezes.
📸 Photo Spot: The lighthouse and the rocky coastline.
📷 Shooting Tip: Use low angles to emphasize the textures of the shore and lighthouse.
📱 For Instagram: Cozy shots with the lighthouse in the background.
Evening: Sunset and Tea by Sarıyer Coast (5:00 PM)
End your day at Sarıyer coast, where you can take a quiet walk along the shore. Surrounded by fishing boats and the warm glow of sunset, this spot offers a peaceful escape from Istanbul’s bustle.
📸 Photo Spot: Sarıyer pier at sunset.
📷 Shooting Tip: Capture the golden hour reflections on the water.
📱 For Instagram: Harmonious shots of sunset hues blending with the sea.
Bonus: Nature Break at Baltalimanı Botanical Garden
On your way back from Sarıyer, stop by Baltalimanı Botanical Garden for a short, relaxing nature break. It’s a calm and green oasis perfect for a quiet stroll.
🚀 Alternatives:
- Short nature hikes in Zekeriyaköy
- Coffee breaks by Tarabya coast
Location and Map
How to Get from Eminönü to Balat?
A Quiet Weekend in Istanbul Without a Car
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