Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, straddles two continents, Europe and Asia, across the Bosphorus Strait. It's surrounded by sea, and while it may not be known as a traditional beach destination, it has some charming beaches you can visit. Here's a quick guide:
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Florya Beach: This is one of the most popular beaches in Istanbul, located on the European side of the city. It's a sandy beach with clear water, and facilities include sun loungers, changing rooms, cafes, and restaurants. It can get busy during the summer months, so try to arrive early if you want to secure a good spot.
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Kilyos Beaches: Kilyos is a small town on the Black Sea coast, about an hour's drive from Istanbul's city center. There are several beaches in Kilyos, both public and private, so you have plenty of options. Some popular choices include Burç Beach and Solar Beach.
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Caddebostan Beach: Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Caddebostan Beach is a public beach that's popular with locals. It's a clean and well-organized beach with changing rooms, cafes, and other amenities.
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Büyükada Beaches: Büyükada is the largest of the Princes' Islands, which are located in the Sea of Marmara and are a short ferry ride from Istanbul. The island has several beaches where you can swim and sunbathe. Nakibey Beach and Yörükali Beach are two popular options.
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Şile Beaches: Şile is a small seaside town on the Black Sea coast, about a 1.5-hour drive from Istanbul. The town has several beautiful sandy beaches that are less crowded than the beaches closer to the city. Ağlayankaya Beach and Uzunkum Beach are two of the best.
Keep in mind that the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara can be quite busy with shipping traffic, so always pay attention to safety information and avoid swimming in non-designated areas. And as always, don't forget your sunscreen, water, and beach towel!
