Things To Do
in Kartal
Kartal, Turkey is a vibrant district located on the Asian side of Istanbul, known for its picturesque coastline along the Sea of Marmara. The area is a blend of modern urban life and traditional Turkish culture, offering a variety of parks, shopping centers, and eateries. Kartal is also strategically located near key transportation hubs, making it an accessible destination for visitors.
The district's growing popularity is fueled by its beautiful waterfront views and emerging real estate developments.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Kartal Marina, enjoying a leisurely breakfast with a view of the sea. Visit the nearby Kartal Bird Sanctuary, where you can observe native bird species and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Head to Aydos Forest for a hiking adventure and immerse yourself in nature. Afterward, visit the local shops in the area for some unique souvenirs.
Dine at one of the waterfront restaurants, enjoying fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Sea of Marmara.
Begin your day with a visit to the historic Kartal Mosque, appreciating its architecture and serene atmosphere. Then, explore the local market for fresh produce and handmade crafts.
Visit the Istanbul City Museum located in Kartal to learn about the region's rich history. Enjoy lunch at a local café, sampling traditional Turkish dishes.
Experience the nightlife at a local bar or café, where you can enjoy live music and socialize with locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a Restaurant | $10-$20 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-$4 |
| 🚌Public Transport Ticket | $0.50 |
| 🏨Hotel Night | $30-$100 |
| 🍺Beer | $3-$6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal views and parks
- Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine
- Easy access to public transportation
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season
- Limited nightlife options compared to central Istanbul
- Language barrier for non-Turkish speakers
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
Places to Visit in Kartal
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning location to capture the sunset against the backdrop of the Sea of Marmara.
Perfect for nature photography, with lush greenery and scenic trails.
A unique spot for wildlife photography, featuring various bird species in their natural habitat.
Food in Kartal
Kartal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled meat skewers, typically served with rice and grilled vegetables.
Must-Try!
A variety of small dishes served as appetizers, perfect for sharing.
A fish sandwich made with freshly caught fish, often served at seaside stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering fresh produce, spices, and street food, perfect for a quick snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, often accompanied by a smile.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Beach attire is acceptable near the coast.
Showing respect to older individuals is an important cultural norm; stand when an elder enters a room.
Safety
Tipping in Kartal
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants. Tipping taxi drivers is also appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also commonly used at restaurants and shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Warm weather attracts beachgoers; however, it can be crowded. Enjoy seaside dining and water sports.
Cooler temperatures bring vibrant fall colors, perfect for hiking and photography.
Cold and occasionally snowy, winter is a quieter time for tourism. Warm up at local cafés with Turkish tea.
Kartal at Night
Hiking in Kartal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking trail leading to the summit of Aydos Hill, offering panoramic views of Istanbul and the Sea of Marmara.
A scenic trail through Çamlık Forest, ideal for an easy hike or family picnic.
Airports
How to reach Kartal by plane.
Located approximately 15 km from Kartal, it serves both domestic and international flights. The airport is accessible by taxi and public transport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A growing demographic in Kartal, attracted by job opportunities and modern living spaces.
Many families reside in Kartal, drawn by its parks, schools, and community-oriented atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a major passion in Turkey, with local clubs and amateur leagues thriving in Kartal.
Basketball is also popular, with many parks featuring courts for public use and local teams participating in regional leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kartal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes such as stuffed peppers and lentil soup.
Most food establishments in Kartal provide halal options, catering to Muslim dietary requirements.