Istanbul’s Bicycle Routes: A Cyclist’s Guide to the City’s Charm
Istanbul, a city famed for its captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, offers some unique bicycle routes for enthusiasts. These routes provide not only a great way to exercise but also an opportunity to explore the city’s diverse landscapes, from the bustling streets to serene forest paths. Here’s a guide to three of Istanbul’s most picturesque cycling routes:
1. European Shores of the Bosphorus
- Route Overview: Starting from Galata Bridge, this flat route takes you through Karaköy, past Dolmabahçe Palace, Beşiktaş, Ortaköy, Kuruçeşme, Bebek, and ends in Sarıyer.
- Distance: 28 km
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 132 m ascent, 126 m descent
- Highlights:
- Sights: Galata Bridge, Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, Rumeli Fortress, and stunning Bosphorus views.
- Tastes: Kumpir (stuffed baked potatoes), “balık ekmek” (fish sandwiches), and various local dishes from luxury and boutique restaurants along the Bosphorus.
- Sounds: Horns of ferries and songs of seagulls.
- Smells: Fish sandwiches near Galata Bridge and Istanbul’s colorful tulips in spring.
- Touch: The constant breeze from the Bosphorus and friendly local cats and dogs.
Click here for a bicycle route map.
2. Anatolian Shores of the Bosphorus
- Route Overview: Starting from Maiden’s Tower, the route stretches north along Istanbul’s Asian shores.
- Distance: 19 km
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 141 m ascent, 137 m descent
- Highlights:
- Sights: Maiden’s Tower, Mihrimah Sultan Mosque, Anadolu Hisarı (Anatolian Fortress).
- Tastes: Street foods in Üsküdar, fresh fish in seaside restaurants, and sweet yogurt in Kanlıca.
- Sounds: Horns of ferries and songs of seagulls.
- Smells: Istanbul’s colorful tulips in spring.
- Touch: The constant breeze from the Bosphorus and friendly local cats and dogs.
Click here for a bicycle route map.
3. European Side Forests
- Route Overview: Starting from the European shores of the Bosphorus and heading to Belgrad Forest, this route takes you to where the Bosphorus meets the Black Sea, under the shade of Istanbul’s aged trees.
- Distance: 40 km
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 651 m ascent, 652 m descent
- Highlights:
- Sights: Istanbul’s forests, Rumeli Lighthouse, and the meeting point of the Black Sea and the Bosphorus.
- Tastes: Fresh fish in seaside restaurants and Sarıyer börek (a type of pastry).
- Sounds: Songs of seagulls and sounds of forest animals.
- Smells: Istanbul’s colorful tulips in spring.
- Touch: The constant breeze from the Bosphorus and friendly local cats and dogs.
Click here for a bicycle route map.
These routes offer a unique way to experience Istanbul’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, making them a must-try for any cycling enthusiast visiting the city.