If you’re planning a visit to Istanbul, there are some things you should know about the area. These small towns are surrounded by the bustling city, but are relatively undiscovered. If you’re interested in history and culture, you should head to the historical center.
1-Polenezkoy
Polonezköy is located on the Asian side of the city about 30 kilometers from the old town. There are numerous hotels in the neighborhood, and you can find a wide range of restaurants and bars. You can also stay in a traditional home and relax with a cup of Turkish coffee. The picturesque village of Polonezkoy has a traditional settlement pattern that is preserved throughout the region. You can explore the surrounding forest and enjoy a walk along the five-kilometer-long walking track. You’ll find a variety of restaurants and cafes showcasing the history of the town. In the summer, you can take advantage of the barbecue facilities and picnic facilities and eat in the lush natural environment. The Polonezkoy region is also known for its charming cafes and cozy restaurants.
2-Tarakli / Sakarya
The village of Tarakli is full of Ottoman houses dating back 300 years. The oldest houses are made of wood and are adorned with intricately carved wooden ornaments. The town’s Kursunlu Mosque, also known as the Yunus Pasha Mosque, is the center of activity in the village. The most ancient resident is the 700-year-old plane tree, which is still growing in the heart of Tarakli.
The quaint, historical homes of the village are among the most popular tourist attractions. The villages are surrounded by gardens and forests, and are a perfect place for hiking, and cycling. The town was an important part of the Ottoman Empire, and produced combs and other woodcrafts. Today, the wood-built houses are now officially protected, and restoration is underway. Some of the villagers are proud of their heritage, which dates back hundreds of years.
3-Gölyazi Village / Bursa
You can spend your days relaxing at the lake while sightseeing in the beautiful Gölyazi Village, a town located on a peninsula of the Ulubat Lake, Bursa. The old Turkish fortress, which is located in the middle of the small town, is still active. This ancient Turkish town offers many outdoor activities, including sailing. To get to the village, take a boat tour around the peninsula. The boat trip should be about an hour and a half, depending on your schedule.
There are many things to do in Golyazi Village. The first place you should visit is the lake. The water is cold and the deepest part of the lake is about three meters. This lake is home to many locals who make their living by fishing. Another popular site in the Golyazi area is the seven-kilometer-long Crying Plane Tree, which is over 700 years old. It has a gaping hole in its trunk. You can visit this beautiful tree at the mainland end of the bridge. There is a small restaurant here that serves delicious home-cooked meals and delicious Turkish coffee.
4-Kartepe / Kocaeli
The Village of Kartepe is a town and district in Kocaeli Province, Turkey. Originally, the inhabitants were nomadic shepherds. However, today, the population has become largely Muslim, with the majority of residents belonging to the locals called “Manavs”
The village is famous for its cherry, the Balaban’s Cherry. Traditionally, this fruit is grown in the region, and the renowned Balaban’s cherry was named after it. The area is known for its tourism and is now the home of several summer resorts. But the Village of Kartepe isn’t just about its cherries and pomegranates. Among its other notable features, the village boasts a variety of renowned berries and fruits.
The Village of Kartepe’s name comes from the fact that it is a mountain village. The village was first settled by the Greeks. The area’s climate is moderate, which means that the temperature and the climate are pleasant throughout the year. The Village of Kartepe is famous for its cherry. It is also home to the Balaban’s Cherry, which is the most famous of all. This fruit is harvested in the area and is very popular in the region.
5-Ağva
The village of Agva is a wonderful place to visit. It has beautiful surroundings, with a natural lake and prominent blocks of rock. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon on the beach or a place to go for a fishing trip, the lake offers a pleasant environment for wandering in the countryside. In addition to the natural beauty of the area, Agva also has a quaint, picturesque town square where you can find cafes, restaurants, and mosques. The traditional market is held on Friday mornings.
This small town is one of the most pristine and picturesque places in the area. Nature is so beautiful that the village attracts thousands of tourists each year. The area is perfect for hiking, biking, and camping. In the summer, you can swim in the Black Sea or spend your time playing in the water. The area also has a small harbor for fishing. The traditional market is held every Friday. While you’re here, don’t forget to take a break from the sun and the heat to explore the surrounding forests.
You can explore these charming towns outside of Istanbul. If you’d like to experience Turkish life without the hustle and bustle of the city, you should travel to some of these villages. If you’re looking for a quiet and secluded location, Turkey has plenty of small and quaint villages, so don’t miss them! You’ll be amazed by their diversity and beauty. So, go ahead and visit these picturesque villages if you’re in the vicinity of the city.
