Best Things to Do in Istanbul This Summer

09.06.2026 551 okunma

Istanbul takes on a completely different beauty during the summer months. With its historic charm, unique views and wide range of activities, Istanbul is an indispensable destination for both local and international visitors in the summer. While Istanbul offers different charms in every season, it is particularly well-suited for events and open-air venues during the summer. On both sides of the city, people begin to enjoy the sea. Ferry terminals, seaside cafes and walking paths become the most heavily used spots during the summer.

As you stroll through the streets of the historic peninsula, the past and present intertwine. On one side are the stone buildings and mosques of old Istanbul; on the other, daily life goes on as usual. Along the Bosphorus, the sea, the sound of ferries and people strolling along the shore bring the city to life. Especially in the summer months, experiencing Istanbul means spending time outdoors. Taking a Bosphorus tour is one of the most classic yet beautiful experiences of summer. Cruising between the two shores by ferry and viewing the waterfront mansions and bridges from the water allows you to see Istanbul from a different perspective. Having a picnic along the shore is also a lovely alternative, especially for families and groups of friends. In areas like Emirgan, Fenerbahçe, Yıldız Park, you can enjoy both the greenery and the sea breeze at the same time.

Prince Islands
Best Things to Do in Istanbul This Summer
For those looking to escape Istanbul’s crowds for a short while, the Princes’ Islands are one of the most enjoyable summer destinations. The sense of being in a natural setting that greets you the moment you arrive helps you leave the city’s stress behind. Cycling is one of the best activities to do here in the summer. Since there is no motor vehicle traffic in many parts of the islands, you can cycle freely and enjoy the sea views along the way. During the day, you can take a dip in the sea at the beaches or in areas near where you disembark, cooling off while enjoying the water. On the way back, stopping at the cafes lining the coast to eat ice cream and enjoy the view with a cold drink makes this experience even more enjoyable. This classic yet indispensable activity, synonymous with summer in Istanbul, is the ideal summer activity for those looking to both relax and explore.

Bosphorus Tours
Best Things to Do in Istanbul This Summer
One of the best ways to explore Istanbul during the summer months is to take a Bosphorus tour. This relaxing and enjoyable journey along the Bosphorus offers the chance to experience the city from its most beautiful angles. As you travel along the waterway stretching between the European and Asian continents, historic waterfront mansions, palaces, and bridges pass before your eyes like a scene from a movie. Boat tours, in particular, are both economical and a truly valuable experience. The Bosphorus, which reveals different beauties at various times of the day, is calmer and more serene in the morning, while as the sun sets, the landscape transforms into a mesmerizing atmosphere bathed in golden hues. A Bosphorus tour, a short getaway, is one of the must-do activities when summer in Istanbul comes to mind.

Going on a Picnic

One of the most enjoyable and relaxing activities to do in Istanbul during the summer is going on a picnic. For those looking to spend quality time surrounded by nature, Istanbul offers a variety of beautiful parks. Places like Emirgan Grove, Yıldız Park, Belgrade Forest, Fenerbahçe Park, and the Dilburnu Picnic Area on Büyükada are great options for picnics, thanks to their spacious green spaces and fresh air. Whether you’re planning a fun day with your family or a group of friends, you can set up a small outdoor spread with the snacks you bring along. Since these areas are particularly popular on weekends, arriving early in the morning helps you find a more peaceful setting. For enjoying the summer in Istanbul, picnicking stands out as both an economical and enjoyable option.

- Emirgan Forest Location Links:

Apple Maps: https://maps.apple/p/2Ifpiiy4vdnjTe

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/K3NBTe1wGHdGMJmt5?g_st=iw

- Yıldız Park Location Links:

Apple Maps: https://maps.apple/p/8aJjPRu_LD3jbK

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5Ghpq5GdzNrnVoX2A?g_st=iw

- Belgrade Forest Location Links:

Apple Maps: https://maps.apple/p/et.7Z2PWPrI22e

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QdGfeTJhxU3E2TZj8?g_st=iw

- Fenerbahçe Park Location Links:

Apple Maps: https://maps.apple/p/nLncsKqrLjQN3.z

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QSuqHzhjQ38ndF2T8?g_st=iw

- Büyükada Dilburnu Picnic Area Location Links:

Apple Maps: https://maps.apple/p/hwXQvUe5Iv57-p

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/teN83rB1zuBMVYbF9?g_st=iw

Canoeing and Rowing Experience

Best Things to Do in Istanbul This Summer
For those looking to spend time on the water during the summer months in Istanbul, canoeing and rowing offer a perfect alternative. Locations such as the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus Strait are particularly well-suited for these sports. By canoeing or rowing during the early morning hours or around sunset—when the water is calmer—you can both get some exercise and enjoy a pleasant activity. As you glide across the water, you can enjoy the stunning views of Istanbul. For those with no prior experience, many locations offer short training sessions and equipment rental options. Whether you participate individually or with a group of friends, this activity is an ideal choice for anyone looking to have a fun and energetic experience in Istanbul during the summer months.

You can explore the locations in Istanbul that offer canoeing and rowing experiences below.

-kanoistanbul

-https://www.instagram.com/bosphoruskurek/

-https://spor.istanbul/?tesisler=halic-su-sporlari-merkezi

-https://www.fatih.bel.tr/tr/main/pages/spor-merkezleri-ve-alanlari-kano-ve-kurek-sporlari-merkezi/300

Zip-lining Experience

For those looking for an adrenaline-pumping summer activity, zip-lining has become quite popular in Istanbul in recent years. You can enjoy a zip-lining experience at places like Nakkaştepe Public Park and Vialand Theme Park. Short but incredibly fun, ziplining is a great activity to try, especially with a group of friends. If you’re looking for a unique and fun activity in Istanbul during the summer months, ziplining should definitely be on your list.

- Nakkaştepe Public Park Location Links:

Apple Maps: https://maps.apple/p/qmVR3KpfE~ErF2

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/t1Dv4SyjSMGewxPg7?g_st=iw

- Vialand Theme Park Location Links:

Apple Maps: https://maps.apple/p/Ar5edWPpiHp3A3

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/WUAzmuY8x49g9sFN8?g_st=iw

If you want to experience Istanbul not just through activities but also by exploring its streets, check out the “Discover Istanbul on Foot” guide, which details routes through Kadıköy, Beşiktaş, and Beyoğlu.

https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/blog/istanbulu-yuruyerek-kesfedin-kadikoy-besiktas-beyoglu

Stay with Orienta Istanbul Tourism

After a day packed with all these activities, if you’d like to enjoy a comfortable stay in some of Istanbul’s liveliest neighborhoods, check out our Airbnb apartments in Kadıköy, Beşiktaş, and Beyoğlu.

Beşiktaş

Enver Apartment, Apartment 1

Airbnb Link: https://www.airbnb.com.tr/rooms/992079237477835710?unique_share_id=c0f37465-2911-40dd-8fe2-05db6b9bd7b3&viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

Orienta Istanbul Tourism Website Link; https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/mulklerimiz/enver-apartmani-1

Ida Maria Apartment, Apartment 2

Airbnb Link; https://www.airbnb.com.tr/rooms/942429950261121703?unique_share_id=a523b9d8-ea9c-4cd2-be59-412a7c8d3a93&viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

Orienta Istanbul Tourism Website Link; https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/mulklerimiz/ida-maria-apartmani-2

Beyoğlu

Osman Efendi Apartment, Apartment 1

Airbnb Link; https://www.airbnb.com.tr/rooms/1107077109308458317?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

Orienta Istanbul Tourism Website Link; https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/mulklerimiz/osman-efendi-apartmani-1

Pala Hayri Apartment, Apartment 2