Are you ready for a nostalgic journey surrounded by the most stunning shades of green and blue? Our steps this weekend brought us to the streets of Beykoz that lead to the sea. Of course, we didn’t forget to include the best places to visit in Beykoz, the Anatolian Side’s most nostalgic district, as well as all the details we love for you!
Even if you’ve been to Beykoz several times before, you can never come back enough. Because, like the works we admire, some places can surprise us with their beauty even after many repeat visits. During the Ottoman period, sultans would come to Beykoz to hunt. Today it probably has what you’re looking for, universities, luxury venues, sea views, groves of trees, famous beaches, and even charming and nostalgic villages. Let’s get ready to turn Beykoz inside out! But only in a good way.
1. Where is Beykoz?
The district of Beykoz is in the northern part of the Anatolian side of the Bosphorus between Anadolu Kavağı and Küçüksu Stream. Beykoz is known for its unspoiled nature despite being in the midst of a megalopolis and has lots of natural beauty to admire within its borders.
2. How to get to Beykoz?
Before we begin with directions to Beykoz, we have a small warning for those who travel by private car: it is necessary to leave early to avoid being caught in rush hour traffic! You can reach Beykoz by sea if you prefer not to drive. If you want, you can also go by bus on the IETT lines 121A, 136B, 15BK, and 15TY, or by using minibuses or midibuses from the Kadıköy and Üsküdar docks.
3. For what Is Beykoz Famous?
3.1. Kanlıca Yoğurdu (Kanlıca Yogurt)
You may have heard of the delicious yoghurt of Kanlıca, one of Beykoz’s most well-known districts. If you enjoy slightly sour flavours, especially strained yoghurt dishes, you should especially try this yoghurt. We prefer the molasses version over the powdered sugar type.
3.2. Beykoz’un Paça Çorbası (Beykoz’s Trotter Soup)
We were surprised, to learn that trotter festivities were once held in a Beykoz meadow. We could smell it cooking in one of the old soup restaurants. Trotter soup is worth its weight in gold as it is thought to have many health benefits. We also discovered that in some places, this dish, which is a combination of trotters and tripe, is served along with yoghurt. Perhaps you could try the yoghurt one as well and provide feedback, ok?
4. Where to go in Beykoz?
4.1. Anadolu Hisarı
Anadolu Hisar (Anatolian Fortress), with its narrow streets and historical Beykoz Mansions, will impress you with historic buildings, colourful fishing boats, incredible views, and natural splendour. We are sure you will remember the slow-passing time and calm air as if you were immersed in another realm!
4.2. Polonezköy
Even driving on the winding and tree-covered roads of Polonezköy made us feel like we were in a period movie. Polonezköy is the right place to enjoy fresh air, discover wildlife in their natural environment, or just for going on long walks! For a little getaway in Polonezköy, you can quickly explore Beykoz hotels and bungalow options.
4.3. Hidiv Kasrı (Khedive Pavilion)
The Khedive Pavilion, with its architecture reminiscent of a fairytale castle, historical texture, a magnificent fountain that makes natural waterfalls jealous, and, outside, centuries-old trees that take deep breaths on hot days, is one of the must-see places! If you want to try a great breakfast in Beykoz, you can go directly to the Khedive Pavilion, which is located in Çubuklu Grove.
5. What to do in Beykoz?
5.1. Riva Beach: a perfect spot for swimming
You can take a beach break at Riva’s Blue Flag beaches, which are in İstanbul’s northernmost point and, if appropriate, visit the famous women’s beach. On windy days, however, the water can be choppy. Check the weather forecast before you arrive and don’t forget to bring water shoes for the stony beaches.
5.2. Yalıköy’s streets lead to the sea
Yalıköy’s streets are waiting for you to strike a pose. You may have seen on social media shots of many of these cool streets. Yalıköy is also home to the well-known Mecidiye Pavilion. Dominating the greenery of Beykoz, and the blue Bosphorus are parrots and wild violets that add colour to the pavilion’s garden, as well as the squirrels that eat the juniper tree’s fruit, it is enchanting!
5.3. Breathe deeply in Beykoz Grove
With its massive plane trees and panoramic İstanbul views, Beykoz Grove will undoubtedly capture your heart. If you go a little deeper into the grove, you will find an island, two caves and even waterfalls. Afterwards you can read a book in a quiet corner or eat a delicious meal in the Beykoz Grove Social Facility. You can see that you have a lot of options, but Beykoz Grove Social Facility is usually very crowded and does not open on Mondays, so it is best to make a reservation before arriving!
Let us conclude our Beykoz travel guide with the words of Orhan Veli, who discovered the world in this nostalgic neighbourhood. “Do I long for a journey again, what is this desire?” If you’ve already fallen in love with travel, don’t forget to use Odamax to find the best accommodations for you!
