Don’t do things that every other person coming to Turkey does. In this blog, I have covered Istanbul in a way that will allow you to view the city in a different light.
Yes, you will go beyond the history lessons, guided tours of famous landmarks, or the regular Instagrammable spots.
Normally, when you picture Istanbul, you probably get struck with images of sultans, mosques, and glittering palaces. Then, of course, there are the never-ending bazaars where you spend a lot buying Turkish souvenirs.
However, on the wild side, you will get introduced to the best activities to do in Istanbul Turkey, that most people totally miss.
At the end of the day, what makes a trip memorable is not just what you saw, but what you felt and did. So, try to include these Istanbul activities in your itinerary.
Why is This Blog Necessary for You?
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The Curated List of Istanbul’s Underrated Activities
What more can I say to encourage you to try these amazing activities in Istanbul? All I can say is that FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) is overrated and makes everyone feel bad.
So, find the right time to experience these activities. Go out and do the thing you love. And try not to wrap your trip to places that are viral on social media.
However, in the end, you need to experience all kinds of sights the city has to offer. Just don’t limit yourself, try exploring various things.
Trekking in Belgrad Forest
Best Time to Go
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Belgrad Forest is just 25 km from the centre of Istanbul. It is that one place locals go to jog, hike, and cycle there every weekend.
It is not widely known to many tourists, but few have discovered this gem. Belgrad is about living in a natural world that is far from the bustling bazaars and busy streets of Sultanahmet (a neighbourhood in Istanbul).
This forest has multiple trails. Some trails are easy and family-friendly. Others are longer and perfect for fitness enthusiasts and young people.
This place looks like a magical green land. You will walk under towering oak trees, and you can spot chestnut trees; if one or two are on the ground, you can just pick them up. Then, hear birdsong, and maybe even spot deer.
Here, small lakes and ponds are spread around and will give you beautiful picnic spots. You can enjoy the whole day walking, relaxing, and picnicking.
Opening Time: It is open 24 hours
Cycling in Polonezkoy Nature Park
| Best Time: You can visit here throughout the year, as each season offers a unique experience. However, the rainy season can make this activity unbearable. |
Polonezkoy, or the “Polish Village,” is honestly one of the nicest little getaway spots you can find around Istanbul.
This place dates back to the 19th century, when Polish immigrants settled here. Even today, it has a super relaxed countryside vibe that feels distinctly different from the city.
Cycling is a popular activity here, and many people visit for the well-maintained trails that wind through forests and open meadows. It’s peaceful with fresh air, and you don’t really have to worry about traffic when you are here.
Some tours combine cycling with stops at village cafes or restaurants. They will also guide you to the best places where you can try homemade jams, fresh bread, or a traditional Turkish breakfast.
Though cycling is a famous activity to do here, there are still a lot more things you can do. Even if you can’t ride, you can simply come here to step back in time and admire those beautiful old wooden houses.
Note: I recommend using the Komoot platform, which allows you to view cycling routes in Polonezköy.
Camping at Cilingoz Nature Park
| Camping season: May to September is best. Although July and August are good months, they can be crowded with locals. |
For those who love the outdoors, Çilingoz Nature Park is the perfect destination. It is two hours from central Istanbul. In this one spot, you will have sandy beaches, dense forests, and a freshwater lake.
Camping here means, in the mornings, you will wake up to birds singing in the forest. This place makes you realise, when in nature, everything is a surprise.
You are not only sleeping in the tent, but you can also go hiking along trails. Then try fishing in the lake, or simply relax by the beach with a barbecue dinner.
You can go with a group via some of the good operators, who can arrange everything from tents, BBQ, and more fun activities. And, don’t forget insect repellent and light jackets for evenings.
Skydiving Over the Coast
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Have you ever dreamed of jumping out of an aeroplane and feeling the rush of free-fall? Istanbul gives you that moment. If you want to go Skydiving, it typically takes place on the outskirts of the city, near Silivri, Ormanli Village, and Şile.
Now get ready for the thrills. The plane climbs up to 3,500-4,000 meters. Even before jumping, you can feel the adrenaline rush in.
The instructor will give you a clear explanation of what you need to do. You must listen carefully, or you might end up in a dangerous situation.
For about 40 seconds, you are in freefall. At the time, you could only hear the sound of the wind. You might not even remember this moment, as it all happens quickly.
Then open the parachute at the said time. Then, you will float peacefully in the sky, with views of the Marmara Sea and farmland that are beautifully spread. It’s a mix of intense thrill and serene beauty that one must experience.
When you book via certified organisations, they will provide proper gear, safety checks, and experienced instructors. Most operators also offer photo and video packages, allowing you to capture that once-in-a-lifetime memory.
Just Istanbul Tours is one of the best operators for skydiving you can reach out to.
ATV Safari in Sile
| Best Season for ATV Ride: Spring to Autumn (April-November). The trails are dry in these months. However, many adventurers actually prefer rainy days, because riding through puddles and mud splashes makes it even more fun. |
Adventure seekers will love Istanbul’s ATV safaris. This is one of the most famous activities in Istanbul, and also throughout Turkey.
Especially in the countryside areas of Şile and Kilyos, which are on the outskirts of Istanbul, you can see a lot of ATV rides.
These places let you drive across rough dirt roads, sandy dunes, and forest trails. These are the most outstanding trails, which is what makes them adventurous.
When you start the ATV, you will only hear the engine roar. You will automatically grip the handlebars and start racing through forests or open fields. This is one activity where you will feel like being in an action movie, and you are the hero.
When you book a tour, it includes breaks. And they will take you to the best Turkish tea or coffee spots in any of the village cafés. Additionally, stops are made at scenic points, allowing you to take numerous pictures.
Overall, you don’t need prior experience. After a quick demo, anyone can handle an ATV.
Here are a few operators
- Safari Life Istanbul
- Istanbul Atv Arena
- Agva Safari
White-Water Rafting
| Best season for white-water rafting: Spring and Summer, when the river is at its optimal water level, is the perfect time. The spring season brings stronger and faster-flowing water, while summer is ideal for beginners because the water is calmer. |
When people think of Istanbul, rafting is not the first activity that comes to mind. Because you can’t do adventurous activities like this in the city centre. Most tourists stick to the city and miss out on exciting adventures, such as rafting.
Take a 4-hour trip to the Melen River, located in Duzce province. Additionally, there are a few operators in Istanbul that offer the best experiences, which I have listed below.
The Melen River is an ideal destination for adventure lovers, offering a wealth of agricultural resources, stunning natural beauty, and a vital water source.
Imagine paddling hard through rushing waters and all the water getting splashed. And all you hear is laughter. It is a thrilling and fun activity when in Turkey.
If you ever feel that your trip is turning into a boring one, consider booking this activity. And see how energised and optimistic your days become. In the lush forests, with authentic Turkish meals to follow your ride, you will complete your day with great joy, for sure.
Operators for Rafting
Paragliding in Ormanli
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If you feel skydiving is a bit too extreme, then try paragliding. It is a gentle yet equally adventurous thing. In the Ormanli village, located near the Black Sea coast, paragliding activities are held.
The activity begins when the instructor provides you with all the necessary details. Then you will go to the hilltop. It is one of the peaceful feelings you will ever get as you glide over the best scenery.
Within seconds, you are floating above forests, beaches, and the endless horizon of the Black Sea. The silence up there is magical; this kind of experience can’t be lived every day.
Paragliding is one of the best activities in Istanbul, combining peaceful, scenic, and thrilling elements all at once. It offers a unique blend of adrenaline and serene beauty.
Operators for Paragliding
Scuba Diving in the Princes’ Islands
| Best Time for Scuba Diving: June to September. The water is warm, and visibility is best. Winter diving is possible, but it is much colder. |
Not many people know that you can go scuba diving in Istanbul. However, we often forget that this city offers a wide range of experiences.
To try this, get a bit far from the centre of Istanbul and away from the crowds. Go to the Princes’ Islands, located just a ferry ride from the city. All you can see here is clear waters, diving schools and an eco-friendly environment.
The underwater world here is different from tropical seas. You can find rocky reefs, sea sponges, small colourful fish, and sometimes even shipwrecks.
For both experienced and beginner divers, the island offers the basics of diving, deeper dives, and more challenging spots. If you are staying longer in Istanbul, you can take full courses and earn a license.
Operators for Scuba Diving
Fishing on the Bosphorus
| Best Season for Fishing: September to November (Autumn), when Bluefish migrate through the Bosphorus. Spring and summer also offer smaller catches. |
Fishing is more than a sport in Istanbul; it’s a way of life. When you walk along the Galata Bridge on any day, you will see dozens of locals with fishing rods, pulling out fish from the Bosphorus.
However, for a more personal experience, you can consider joining a fishing tour on a small boat. You will have fishermen with you who know the job at an expert level. They will teach you what to do. All you have to do is listen and follow their instructions exactly.
The joy is not just in catching fish, but in being on the water, sipping tea, and chatting with locals. It is one of the best activities to do in Istanbul, Turkey, which offers a chance to experience the real life of a fisherman.
During this time, some tours organise a place to cook the fish you catch on board or at a seaside restaurant.
You can look for operators like
- Lutfullah Findikoglu
- Istanbul Bosphorus Tour
Workshops & Handicraft Experiences
Shopping in Istanbul isn’t just about buying souvenirs. It is more about learning the craft and a chance to mingle with the locals and share stories.
Instead of simply visiting the Grand Bazaar, join a workshop where local artisans teach you traditional skills.
You can try Ebru (marbling art) or ceramic painting, where you can decorate tiles with Ottoman patterns. Also, learn the famous carpet weaving.
These activities allow you to connect with Turkish culture in depth and learn a great deal about how these products became historically popular in Turkey.
When you book the workshop, you will have the option of a one-hour to a full-day experience. In longer sessions, you will get breaks where you will be served with the best Turkish tea, coffee, and a plate full of Turkish delights.
Some also let you keep your artwork. So, you return from Istanbul with not just souvenirs, but something you created yourself.
Places for workshops
- Les Arts Turcs
- Highlights in Istanbul Workshops
- Istanbul Experiences Workshops
| Do This for a Regular Touristy Experience | Live Like a Local in Istanbul |
| Visiting Mosques | By following the recommended activities given in this blog. |
| Shopping in the Grand Bazaar | |
| Joining Food Tour | |
| Walking around famous streets |
Conclusion
As you can see, I suggested trying these activities over all other things. Overall, I do not encourage anyone to abandon the tourist attractions that Istanbul has to offer.
You need to try both worlds of this city. And remember, anyone can make use of this blog for their turkey trip. However, I know it can be a bit difficult to navigate things if you are a first-time traveller, and somehow you will end up doing the basic Istanbul things.
That’s why I recommend seeking help from Dimaak Tours. So, you don’t have to get confused or overwhelmed when you are planning your international trips.
You can reach out to us. Here, we help our customers’ vacation dreams come true. We just don’t make an itinerary and ask them to spend the days like that. We collaborate with each of our customers and customise their itineraries.
All I wanted to say is, don’t wait long to make this memorable trip. You can contact us to clear any doubts about flights, accommodation, sightseeing, or any other aspect of international trips.
Frequently Asked Questions on Activities to do in Istanbul Turkey
Why is Istanbul famous all over the world?
Istanbul is famous because it connects Europe and Asia. Plus, it offers rich history, stunning architecture, delicious food, and unique cultural experiences that combine both parts of the world.
Which places are free in Istanbul to explore?
You can go to places like the Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, Istiklal Street, and many city parks without paying any entry fee.
What’s cheap to buy in Istanbul?
Street food like kebabs, fresh bread, Turkish tea and coffee are very affordable. You can also find budget shopping in local bazaars and in the Grand Bazaar.
What are the best activities to do in Istanbul, Turkey?
Apart from sightseeing, you can try hiking in Belgrad Forest, kayaking on the Bosphorus, cycling tours, Turkish cooking classes, and food walks.
Is Istanbul safe for tourists?
Yes, Istanbul is normally safe for tourists. However, just stay alert in crowded areas and look out for scams.
What is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities in Istanbul?
April to June (Spring) and September to November (Autumn) are best. The climate is nice, making it perfect for trekking, sailing, and city tours.
