Istanbul is a city filled with exciting places to discover by car. From beautiful parks to historic sites, there are numerous must-visit spots for road trips. Driving around the city gives you a chance to see both the old and contemporary sides of Istanbul. You can like the sights, stop at fascinating places, and make the most of your time in this astonishing city. Whether you’re visiting the Bosphorus or well-known palaces, there is something for everyone to like.
A Charming Drive Along the Bosphorus: Top Sights to See

Driving along the Bosphorus in Istanbul is a pretty experience. Start in Beşiktaş, a crowded slice of the city. From here, take the main road along the water, called Büyükdere Street. On this drive, you will see astonishing locations, like Dolmabahçe Palace and Ortaköy Mosque. You can stop to glance at the sights and take photos.
Keep on driving to see Rumeli Fortress, a large, old castle with extraordinary sights of the Bosphorus. You will also go to Bebek, a favored zone with cafes by the water. If you drive more remote, you will arrive at Anadolu Kavağı, a little village with fresh seafood. From here, you can notice where the Bosphorus meets the Black Sea. For a calm drive, go early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid traffic jams.
Exploring the Princes’ Islands: A Perfect Day Trip from Istanbul

The Princes’ Islands are a significant location for a day trip from Istanbul. You cannot drive to the islands, but you can drive to the ferry port in Kabataş or Bostancı. From there, take a ferry to the islands. The trip is 1 hour, and the sights of Istanbul are very nice.
On the islands, there are no cars, so people hike, ride bikes, or use electric carts. Büyükada is the larger island and has pretty cafes, seasides, and old houses. You can expand the day by walking, exploring, and liking the mute air. Remember to examine ferry times for your journey back to Istanbul.
Exploring the Historic Streets of Sultanahmet
Sultanahmet is a celebrated region in Istanbul with numerous historic places. To get here, you can drive to the Sultanahmet area, but car parking is limited, so it is better to use public transport or a taxi.
In Sultanahmet, you can visit the Blue Mosque, an attractive mosque with azure tiles, and Hagia Sophia, a large, old building that was a church, then a mosque, and now a museum. There is also Topkapi Palace, where the Ottoman sultans once settled. Walking through the streets, you will see numerous old buildings, mini shops, and cafes. Sultanahmet is a significant location to learn about Istanbul’s past and culture.
Discovering Balat and Fener: Istanbul’s Colorful Neighborhoods

Balat and Fener are two brilliant areas in Istanbul. You can drive here, but the roads are small, so parking can be hard. It may be easier to take a taxi or choose public transport.
In Balat and Fener, you will see old, glowing houses and individual buildings. There are numerous tiny cafes and antique shops to travel to. One popular place here is the Phanar Greek Orthodox College, a big red structure. Walking around, you can take attractive photos and see city life in Istanbul. Balat and Fener are ideal for a calm day in the city.
Hidden Gems of the Asian Side: Kadıköy and Moda

Kadıköy and Moda are pretty areas of the Asian support of Istanbul. You can guide here or take a ferry from the European part. If you drive, car parking is not difficult in the morning or on weekdays.
Kadıköy has an energetic market with fresh food, small shops, and cafes. Moda, nearby, is a silent area by the sea with parks and enjoyable hiking paths. There are numerous cozy cafes where you can sit, relax, and love the outlook. Kadıköy and Moda are ideal for tours and experiencing town Istanbul life away from the busy city center.
Exploring Istanbul’s Art Scene in Karaköy and Galata

Karaköy and Galata are thrilling areas in Istanbul for art lovers. You can drive here, but car parking is limited, so it’s frequently not difficult to take public transport or walk if you’re close.
In Karaköy, you will discover many art galleries, cool street art, and trendy cafes. Galata has the well-known Galata Tower, which gives serious sights of Istanbul. The area also has small art shops and music stores. Walking around, you can see glaring wall paintings and local artists’ work. Karaköy and Galata are ideal for a relaxed, creative day in Istanbul.
A Visit to Emirgan Park: Istanbul’s Floral Wonderland

Emirgan Park is an attractive park in Istanbul. It has a lot of flowers and trees. People visit the park to please nature and relax. There are also enjoyable places to walk and sit. The park is celebrated for its tulips in spring. To get to Emirgan Park by car, operate towards the Sarıyer district. Follow the signs to Emirgan. The park has a large parking area where you can leave your car. It’s a significant site to spend time with family or friends.
A Foodie’s Journey Through Nişantaşı and Beşiktaş

Nişantaşı and Beşiktaş are significant locations for food lovers. In Nişantaşı, you can discover many cafés, restaurants, and bakeries. The food here is tasty, and you can try dissimilar types of dishes. Beşiktaş is also well known for its street food, like simit and döner. Both places have an active air and numerous stores. To get to Nişantaşı and Beşiktaş by car, drive through the center of Istanbul. Go behind the signs to Beşiktaş or Nişantaşı. You can discover car parking regions near to park your car.
The Tranquil Shores of Büyükçekmece and Küçükçekmece
Büyükçekmece and Küçükçekmece are calm locations by the sea. They are both significant for restfulling and loving the sights. You can walk along the seaside or sit by the water. The region has countless snack bars and restaurants with attractive sea sights. People come here to like the quiet air. To get to Büyükçekmece and Küçükçekmece by car, drive from the center of Istanbul. Follow the signs to Büyükçekmece or Küçükçekmece. There are car parking regions near the beaches where you can park your car.
Exploring Istanbul’s Trendy Cafés and Shops in Cihangir

Cihangir is a liked area in Istanbul for modern cafés and shops. The roads are filled with little, cozy cafés where you can enjoy coffee and desserts. There are also numerous stores selling clothes, art, and individual items. People love to walk around Cihangir, shopping and relaxing. To get to Cihangir by car, drive towards Beyoğlu district. Follow the signs to Cihangir. There are car parking zones around the neighborhood where you can park your car.
A Day in Üsküdar: From Maiden’s Tower to Kuzguncuk

Üsküdar is a pretty region with the Asian support of Istanbul. You can begin your day by visiting the Maiden’s Tower, a celebrated tower on a small island. After that, you can discover Kuzguncuk, an attractive neighborhood with old houses and little cafés. It is a calm location to walk and appreciate the countryside. To get to Üsküdar by car, drive over the Bosphorus Bridge or take the Marmaray Tunnel. Follow the signals to Üsküdar. There are car parking zones where you can park your car and begin exploring.
Discovering Istanbul’s Modern Side in Levent and Maslak
Levent and Maslak are contemporary zones in Istanbul. They are filled with tall structures, offices, and shopping malls. You can visit big malls like Kanyon and Istinye Park to store or eat. These regions are also well known for their business centers. People come here for work and amusement. To get to Levent and Maslak by car, drive along the city center. Follow the signals to Levent or Maslak. There are car parking areas near the shopping centers and buildings where you can park your car.
Exploring Istanbul’s Palaces: Dolmabahçe and Beylerbeyi

Dolmabahçe Palace is one of the greatest well-known palaces in Istanbul. It is found by the Bosphorus, and it has pretty gardens and rooms. The palace was addressed to the Ottoman sultans in the 19th century. Guests can see its stunning architecture and learn about the past of the Ottoman Empire.
Beylerbeyi Palace is another pleasing palace in Istanbul. It is found on the Asian side of the city, near the Bosphorus. The palace has an attractive garden and a sight of the sea. It was a summer residence for Ottoman sultans.
To get to Dolmabahçe Palace by car, drive to the Beşiktaş area and follow the signs. To reach Beylerbeyi Palace, drive across the 15 July Martyrs Bridge and follow the signs to Beylerbeyi. There are car parking areas near both castles.
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