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    HomeTrip ideasNatureThe colors of autumn beckon: the forests of İstanbul

    The colors of autumn beckon: the forests of İstanbul

    The proudest season of the year arrives – even as nature prepares to hibernate, it says farewell with a glorious burst of colors.

    Welcome to a fairy-tale-like environment – to the lush forests of İstanbul – where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city without going too far!

    Turkish Airlines Blog
    Turkish Airlines Blog
    With this account, managed by our writer team, we welcome all who love travel and exploration to enjoy these blog posts. And we gently remind our readers of the delight to be found in 'hitting the road'. As Tolstoy said: “All great literature is one of two stories; a man goes on a journey or a stranger comes to town.”

    Belgrade Forest

    Belgrade Forest views.
    Belgrade Forest, İstanbul.

    The Belgrade Forest, one of the most popular destinations on İstanbul’s European side, is naturally among the first that comes to mind. Home to thousands of plant and animal species, the Belgrade Forest was the source of the city’s drinking water during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods, The Forest offers walking paths and a serene atmosphere, as well as picnic areas and even a café. Especially in autumn, you can see the Forest at its most beautiful.

    Belgrade Forest is located on the borders of the Sarıyer district and is accessible via public transport or by private car. 


    Aydos Forest

    Aydos Forest Lake
    Aydos Forest, İstanbul.

    On the Anatolian Side of İstanbul, the Aydos Forest is where you can embrace autumn to the fullest; the Forest is a true getaway. The lovely Aydos Forest Lake offers activities such as trekking, camping, cycling and picnic, while Aydos Hill features a Byzantine-era castle and magnificent views!

    Aydos, one of the most beautiful İstanbul forests, is on the borders of the Kartal district. It is accessible via public transportation or private vehicle.


    Büyük Çamlıca Grove

    Büyük Çamlıca Grove
    Büyük Çamlıca Grove, İstanbul.

    The Büyük Çamlıca Grove, one of the most popular green spots in İstanbul, offers a serene environment with a unique city view. Set at one of the highest points of the city, the Grove is also a point for migratory birds during September and October. The Büyük Çamlıca Grove features magnificent gardens along with social facilities, historical mansions, fountains, restaurants and walking paths.

    Büyük Çamlıca Grove, in the Üsküdar district, is accessible via public transportation or private vehicle.


    Kemerburgaz Urban Forest

    The Mağlova Aqueduct in the Kemerburgaz Urban Forest.
    View of the Mağlova Aqueduct from Kemerburgaz Urban Forest.

    Kemerburgaz Urban Forest is an ideal destination for fitness, sports and family activities. It features children’s playgrounds and various facilities, as well as long walking trails. In addition, visitors can see one of architect Sinan Mimar’s masterpieces. For details, check out the blog entry on A tranquil masterpiece in İstanbul: Mağlova Aqueduct!

    The Forest is located on the borders of the Eyüpsultan district and is accessible via public transportation or private vehicle.


    Göktürk Pond National Park

    Göktürk Pond National Park
    Göktürk Pond National Park, İstanbul.

    Göktürk Pond National Park is even more beautiful in the autumn route with its oak and hornbeam trees. The Park includes a pond, walking and cycling paths, and various food and drink kiosks, as well as a restaurant. In addition, visitors can also observe forest creatures such as turtles and hedgehogs.

    Göktürk Pond Park is in the Eyüpsultan district and is accessible via public transportation or private vehicle!


    Atatürk Urban Forest

    Atatürk Urban Forest
    Atatürk Urban Forest, İstanbul.

    With its three separate walking routes, clean air and ponds, one of the most peaceful spots in autumn is the Atatürk Urban Forest. The Forest also offers bird watching opportunities and lovely views, and is a practical getaway due to its location in a central point of the city.

    The Atatürk Urban Forest is accessible via by public transportation such as buses and metro, as well as by private vehicle.


    Kaymakdonduran Promenade Forest

    Kaymakdonduran Forest, İstanbul
    Kaymakdonduran Forest

    On the Anatolian side of İstanbul, the Kaymakdonduran Forest serves as the lungs of the city, as well as home to hundreds of plants and other living creatures. There is also a small facility in the forest, which is an ideal destination for activities such as picnics, trekking and camping. In the autumn, the Forest is even more beautiful – and extremely photogenic.

    Kaymakdonduran Forest is in the Beykoz district of İstanbul and accessible via public transportation or private car.


    Atatürk Arboretum

    Atatürk Arboretum View
    Atatürk Arboretum, İstanbul.

    Featuring trees and botanical gardens created for scientific research and observation, the Atatürk Arboretum has a fairy-tale atmosphere that is even more pronounced in autumn and winter. While activities at Atatürk Arboretum are relatively limited compared to other Forest areas, it is a beautiful place to visit. Please note: pets, food, drinks, and bicycles are not permitted inside the park.

    The Atatürk Arboretum is in the Sarıyer district and accessible via public transportation or private vehicle. It is open every day except Sunday.

    We wish you a fabulous autumn and glorious colors!

    *The date of this blog post may have been updated due to additional content. Please be aware that information on fees and transportation is subject to change. The content of this post reflects the author's opinion and views.

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