Near & Out of Istanbul

You've seen Istanbul's top sights, now get out of the city. Here are the best one-day and overnight trips:

Bosphorus Cruise

A half-day or day-long excursion up the strait that runs through Istanbul, visiting castles, palaces... and—if you're like me—fish restaurants! More...

Princes Islands

A voyage to these islands just offshore from Istanbul is a great way to spend a day...or even overnight (but avoid weekends). More...

Beaches near Istanbul

The beaches will be crowded on any hot summer day, but they still provide a refreshing getaway. More...

Bursa

Zoom south across the Sea of Marmara in a catamaran to see this first capital of the Ottoman Empire, with itsfine old mosques, silk weaving trade, and thermal spas. Make it an overnight and see İznik (Nicaea) as well. More...

Edirne

Comfortable day-long excursion by bus or car to see thefine old mosques and lively bazaars of the secondOttoman capital, delightfully free of tourist crowds.More...

Çanakkale & Gallipoli

Long day-trip by bus or car to see the Dardanelles, theGallipoli battlefields, and even ancient Troy; possible in a long day, but better as an overnight. More...

Ephesus

Best-preserved classical city in the entire Mediterranean, a must-see; go by plane for the day, or overnight.