Things To Do
in Esenyurt
Esenyurt is a densely populated, rapidly developing district on Istanbul's European side, known for its modern apartment blocks and extensive commercial hubs. It sits along major transit corridors, offering easy access to central Istanbul while continuing to upgrade its infrastructure. The area is culturally diverse, with a mix of longtime residents and newcomers from across Turkey and beyond.
While it lacks the centuries-old landmarks of Istanbul's historic core, it makes up for it with large shopping centers, parks, and a family-friendly, pragmatic vibe.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the bustling Esenyurt Market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere filled with local vendors selling fresh produce and handmade goods. Stroll through the colorful stalls while sampling traditional Turkish breakfast items like simit and olives. Engage with friendly locals and learn about their daily lives as you navigate the lively market scene.
After the market, head to a nearby café for lunch and enjoy a classic Turkish döner kebab with a refreshing Ayran drink. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby Esenyurt Cultural Center, which often hosts art exhibitions and performances showcasing local talent. Take some time to relax in the adjacent park, enjoying the greenery and perhaps reading a book or people-watching.
As the sun sets, dine at a rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the city skyline. Choose from a variety of traditional dishes, accompanied by Turkish tea or a glass of local wine. End your evening with a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood, soaking in the vibrant nightlife and perhaps stopping for dessert at a local patisserie.
Begin your day with a drive to the magnificent Rumeli Fortress, a stunning historical site that offers a glimpse into the Ottoman Empire's architectural prowess. Explore the ancient walls and towers, taking in breathtaking views of the Bosphorus Strait. Capture the morning light with stunning photographs of the fortress and its surrounding landscape.
After touring the fortress, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café with a view of the water. Spend your afternoon walking along the Bosphorus, where you can take in the picturesque scenery and perhaps catch a ferry for a short cruise. This is a perfect opportunity to relax and unwind while enjoying the gentle breeze and beautiful surroundings.
Return to Esenyurt in the evening and indulge in a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant known for its kebabs and mezes. After dinner, treat yourself to a sweet dessert like baklava or künefe, enjoyed alongside a cup of Turkish coffee. End the day with a leisurely walk through the neighborhood, soaking in the local atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🛒Grocery shopping for a week | $25-60 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-4 |
| 🚇One-way public transport ticket | $0.75-1.25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable prices and good value for money
- Excellent transit links to central Istanbul
- Wide range of shopping, dining, and modern services
- Damily-friendly neighborhoods with parks
- Limited historic tourist attractions within Esenyurt itself
- Traffic congestion during peak hours on major corridors
- Varied access to healthcare depending on neighborhood
- Major nightlife options are farther from the district center
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Neredeyim?" - Where am I?
- "Bana yardımcı olur musunuz?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Esenyurt
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide, calm water with birds and sunset reflections; ideal for wide-angle and landscape shots.
Glass-and-steel architecture lit up at night; good for urban cityscape photography.
Modern residential towers and busy street scenes offer dynamic urban photography opportunities.
Food in Esenyurt
Esenyurt Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Doner meat sliced over pita bread, topped with tomato sauce and yogurt; widely served in kebap shops around Esenyurt.
Must-Try!
Turkish dumplings served with garlicky yogurt and spiced butter.
Thin flatbread topped with spiced minced meat, typically rolled with fresh herbs and lemon.
Stuffed flatbread filled with cheese, spinach, or potatoes, cooked on a griddle.
Olive-oil cooked vegetables (often eggplant) served as a cold or warm dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Large local market with fresh produce, bread, spices, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Broad market with seasonal fruits, vegetables, nuts, and street food stalls; great for tasting local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Merhaba' or 'Selam'; handshake with adults is common; address elders with polite titles.
Casual attire is fine for most areas; modest clothing is appropriate in mosques; remove shoes if required in religious spaces.
Avoid discussing politics or sensitive topics in casual conversations; respect local customs around family and religion.
Safety
Tipping in Esenyurt
Ensure a smooth experience
If service charge is not included, leave around 5-10% in restaurants; small tips for baristas or porters are appreciated.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; keep some cash for markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and often humid; carry water, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild temperatures with comfortable days; a great time for walking and exploring outdoor markets.
Cool and rainy with occasional dry spells; pack a warm coat and waterproof shoes.
Pleasant weather with blooming parks; ideal for photography and outdoor strolls.
Esenyurt at Night
Hiking in Esenyurt
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive forest with well-marked trails, ponds, and scenic overlooks; a popular escape from city heat.
Urban lake trails suitable for short hikes and sunset photography, with birdlife and water views.
Airports
How to reach Esenyurt by plane.
Major European-side international hub; approximately 40-50 km from Esenyurt with highway and rail connections.
Asian-side airport; farther from Esenyurt but reachable by road or intercity links; useful for certain regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large share of residents are young professionals and families attracted by newer housing and amenities.
Longtime residents in apartment blocks, contributing to a community-focused atmosphere.
Diverse mix of migrants and expatriates, influencing local cuisine, business, and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
By far the most popular sport; local pickup games and informal leagues common in parks and schoolyards.
Widely played in community centers and school courts; often organized as informal leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Esenyurt.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available: mercimek çorbası (lentil soup), imam bayıldı, and various zeytinyağlılar (olive oil–based vegetable dishes). Request no meat stock and ask for mezze or pasta dishes prepared without meat.