Things To Do
in Yeşilköy
Yeşilköy is a leafy, coastal neighborhood on the European side of Istanbul, perched along the Marmara Sea. It combines residential calm with easy access to modern amenities, seaside promenades, and a growing café culture. The area is known for the historic site of the old Atatürk Airport nearby and the contemporary Forum Florya and Istanbul Aquarium.
Visitors come for calm strolls by the water, seafood dinners, and a gateway to broader Istanbul experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a serene walk along the Yeşilköy seafront, breathing in the fresh sea breeze. Visit the local morning market to sample fresh produce and traditional Turkish breakfast specialties. Enjoy a cup of Turkish tea while watching the fishermen prepare for their day.
Head to the Yeşilköy Marina for a leisurely lunch at a seaside café, indulging in freshly caught seafood. Afterward, stroll through the nearby parks and enjoy the scenic views of the Sea of Marmara. You can also rent a bike to explore the coastal paths and vibrant neighborhood.
Finish your day with a sunset view by the beach, capturing the beautiful colors of the sky. Dine at one of the local restaurants offering classic Turkish dishes, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. Later, take a leisurely walk back along the seaside promenade, enjoying the sounds of waves lapping against the shore.
Visit the historic St. Trinitaris Church, appreciating its beautiful architecture and tranquil ambiance. Spend some time at the local art galleries showcasing works by up-and-coming Turkish artists. Don’t forget to explore the quaint streets lined with charming cafes.
Grab lunch at a vibrant café, sampling local pastries and specialty drinks. Afterward, visit the cultural center for exhibitions and performances that highlight the rich history of the region. Engage with the locals and learn about their traditional crafts and customs.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional meyhane, where you can experience authentic Turkish meze plates paired with raki. Take a brief evening stroll through the historical areas, appreciating the illuminated architecture. If you’re up for it, catch a local band performing in one of the town’s music venues.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee at café | $2-4 |
| 🚍One-way public transport ticket | $0.60-1.50 |
| 🛏️Hotel room (mid-range) | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal charm and easy access to Istanbul's attractions
- Good value for money and food options near the coast
- Limited nightlife in Yeşilköy itself
- Road traffic can be congested during peak hours
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerede?" - Where is it?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "İyi akşamlar" - Good evening
Places to Visit in Yeşilköy
Visit one of these nice places.
One of Europe’s largest aquariums with striking blue displays and exterior architecture perfect for dramatic shots.
Long, sandy coast ideal for sunrise or golden-hour seascapes with views of the Marmara Sea.
Colorful waterfront houses, cafes, and a gentle curve of the shoreline for ambient street photography.
Food in Yeşilköy
Yeşilköy Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly grilled fish served in a crusty bun, a classic seaside bite commonly found along the Marmara coast near Florya.
Must-Try!
Assorted small dishes like haydari, ezme, hummus, and octopus salad, perfect with tea or rakı.
A generously loaded baked potato with toppings like cheese, olives, corn, and sauces, popular in coastal lanes.
Crunchy sesame bread served with strong Turkish tea for a simple, iconic snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling weekly market offering fresh produce, spices, fish, and quick bites.
Mall-side stalls and seaside snack kiosks with fish sandwiches and Turkish sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly “Merhaba” (hello). A handshake is common in formal settings; close friends kiss on both cheeks in informal settings.
Dress modestly in religious sites; remove shoes if requested; ask before taking photos of people.
Turkish meals are often shared; wait for everyone to be served before eating; say teşekkür ederim when grateful.
Safety
Tipping in Yeşilköy
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is customary if service charge is not included. Small tips for taxi drivers or porters are appreciated.
Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; some smaller vendors may prefer cash. Contactless payments are common in malls and larger shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days and blooming gardens; carry a light jacket and enjoy outdoor strolls from March to May.
Warm to hot days with sea breezes; plan early morning visits and seaside dinners; expect crowds on weekends.
Pleasant temperatures with occasional rains; good for city walks and markets without peak heat.
Cool, with sporadic rain and short daylight; indoor cafés and museums are good options.
Yeşilköy at Night
Hiking in Yeşilköy
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of trails just outside the city with shaded paths and seasonal greenery.
Coastal trails and beaches within a short drive from Yeşilköy offering scenic sea views.
Airports
How to reach Yeşilköy by plane.
Modern international hub located on the European side, about 40-60 minutes from Yeşilköy by car depending on traffic.
Historic airport site near Yeşilköy; passenger flights moved to IST in recent years; currently used mainly for cargo, military, and events.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Yeşilköy, seeking a calmer pace near the sea.
Predominantly Turkish local residents with growing expatriate presence in nearby areas.
Some younger residents who work in central Istanbul and nearby business districts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the dominant sport with local clubs and large stadiums across Istanbul.
Popular in local clubs and parks; public courts can be found in neighborhoods.
Seaside activities like swimming and paddling along the Marmara coast in summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yeşilköy.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Turkish cuisine has many vegetarian options such as stuffed peppers, börek, lentil soup, fresh salads, and grilled vegetables. Many restaurants can adapt dishes on request.