Things To Do
in Büyükçekmece
Büyükçekmece is a district located in the European side of Istanbul, Turkey. It is known for its beautiful coastal area and historical significance dating back to ancient times. Büyükçekmece Lake is a popular destination for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
The district offers a mix of modern amenities and traditional Turkish culture, making it a unique and charming place to visit.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Büyükçekmece Grand Court, an impressive historical site. Take time to enjoy the beautiful architecture and learn about its history.
After lunch, head to the Dörtler Mosque, known for its stunning interior. Spend some time reflecting in this serene atmosphere.
Wrap up your day with a walk along the Büyükçekmece coastal promenade. Enjoy the sunset views and relax by the water.
Spend your morning at Büyükçekmece Beach, relaxing on the sandy shores. Don't forget to try some local breakfast at beachside cafes.
Engage in water sports or enjoy beach volleyball with friends. The lively atmosphere will keep you entertained.
Conclude your day with dinner at a beachfront restaurant, basking in the cool evening breeze. Try fresh seafood dishes for a true taste of the coast.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastline along the Sea of Marmara, ideal for beach activities.
- Rich cultural history with several historical sites and landmarks.
- Growing residential area with a mix of urban and suburban living.
- Proximity to Istanbul, offering easy access to the city while maintaining a quieter lifestyle.
- Variety of local amenities including shops, restaurants, and parks.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue, especially during peak times.
- Limited public transportation options compared to central Istanbul.
- In some areas, infrastructure may not be as developed as in more urban parts of Istanbul.
- Higher rate of humidity during summer months, which may be uncomfortable for some.
- Real estate prices have been increasing, making housing less affordable for some residents.
Best Activities in Büyükçekmece
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy picnicking, fishing, and walking along the beautiful lake.
Explore nature trails, have a picnic, and enjoy the greenery and wildlife.
Hike through the forest, have a barbecue, and experience the tranquility of nature.
Relax in a well-maintained park, take a leisurely walk, and enjoy the playgrounds and green space.
Tours
Uncover the best of Büyükçekmece with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Büyükçekmece
Visit one of these nice places.
Büyükçekmece beach provides a picturesque view of the sea and is a popular spot for photography, especially during sunset.
The lake offers stunning panoramic views and is a great location for capturing the natural beauty of Büyükçekmece.
The bridge offers a unique vantage point for capturing the cityscape and the water, making it a great spot for photographers.
Food in Büyükçekmece
Büyükçekmece Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular Turkish street food, Balık Ekmek features grilled fish, typically mackerel, served in a crusty bread bun with salad and a squeeze of lemon. Look for it at the seaside promenade for a true local experience.
Must-Try!
Köfte, or Turkish meatballs, are a must-try. Deliciously seasoned and grilled to perfection, they are often served with rice, grilled vegetables, and a side of yogurt. Visit Köfteci Arnavut for a delightful serving.
A thin, crispy Turkish pizza topped with a flavorful mixture of minced meat, vegetables, and herbs. You can savor this delicacy at Güneş Pide ve Lahmacun Salonu.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Büyükçekmece better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, aromatic spices, and delectable street food stalls. Sample gözleme (traditional Turkish flatbread) and pick up some local olives and cheese for a picnic by the sea.
Take a stroll along Mimar Sinan Street to discover an array of street food stalls offering tantalizing treats such as midye dolma (stuffed mussels), simit (ring-shaped bread), and more.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Büyükçekmece, it is important to show respect for elders through polite behavior and using proper forms of address.
It is important to be aware of and respect Muslim religious customs in Büyükçekmece, such as prayer times and dress codes.
Turkish culture values hospitality, so it is polite to show gratitude for hospitality extended to you and to reciprocate with your own gestures of kindness.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Büyükçekmece with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Büyükçekmece
Ensure a smooth experience
In Büyükçekmece, Turkey, tipping is a common practice in restaurants, cafes, and hotels. It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% of the total bill. However, tipping is not mandatory, and it ultimately depends on the level of service provided.
In Büyükçekmece, Turkey, cash is the most widely accepted form of payment, particularly in smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are also commonly used, especially in larger businesses and tourist areas. It's important to carry some cash for transactions in local markets and smaller shops.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Büyükçekmece.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Büyükçekmece as the weather is mild and the city is blooming with beautiful flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's parks and gardens.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Büyükçekmece, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor events and festivals. The beaches are popular destinations during this time, and the city comes alive with a vibrant atmosphere.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures to Büyükçekmece, making it a pleasant time to visit. The city's parks showcase beautiful autumn foliage, and it's a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the countryside.
Winter in Büyükçekmece is mild, with occasional rainfall. It's a quieter time to visit, and the city's historical sites and museums are less crowded. The winter months are ideal for experiencing the local culture and cuisine in a more relaxed setting.
Büyükçekmece at Night
Hiking in Büyükçekmece
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A natural area with trails suitable for hiking, offering lush greenery and views of the Büyükçekmece Lake.
A serene forest area perfect for hiking with various trails surrounded by trees and wildlife.
A scenic hiking trail that connects Şile and Ağva, offering beautiful views and a moderate level of difficulty.
While primarily a beach, nearby hiking trails offer rugged coastal paths with stunning sea views.
A little further away, this park provides picturesque hiking routes through forested areas and rolling hills.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Büyükçekmece through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Büyükçekmece by plane.
The largest airport in Turkey, located approximately 50 km from Büyükçekmece, serving as a major international hub.
Located about 70 km from Büyükçekmece, this airport primarily serves low-cost carriers and domestic flights.
Previously the main international airport in Istanbul, it is about 40 km away. Currently, it primarily serves cargo and some private flights.
Situated around 90 km from Büyükçekmece, this airport mainly serves domestic flights and some international charters.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary ethnic group in Büyükçekmece, reflecting the broader demographics of Turkey.
A significant ethnic minority, with a presence in various parts of Turkey, including Büyükçekmece.
Another ethnic minority, particularly in the coastal regions of Turkey.
Includes smaller groups such as Circassians, Bosniaks, and others.
Includes individuals from various countries who have settled in Büyükçekmece, often due to job opportunities or family connections.
The Soul of Büyükçekmece
Discover the essence of Büyükçekmece through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Büyükçekmece, with many local teams and clubs actively participating in regional leagues.
Basketball enjoys a significant following in Büyükçekmece, with various youth and adult leagues providing opportunities for players to develop their skills.
Volleyball is widely played in schools and clubs throughout Büyükçekmece, with community tournaments fostering local talent.
Tennis has a growing popularity in the area, with several local courts and clubs inviting players of all ages to participate.
Given its proximity to the coast, swimming is a favored activity, with many residents participating in both recreational and competitive swimming.
Athletics is promoted through various local events and competitions, with emphasis on track and field events for young athletes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Büyükçekmece.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Turkish cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants in Büyükçekmece offer vegetarian and vegan mezes (appetizers) such as stuffed grape leaves, hummus, and muhammara, as well as main courses like spinach pie and vegetable kebabs.
Those with gluten intolerances can enjoy dishes like grilled meats, rice pilaf, and fresh salads, which are prevalent and easily available in the local eateries.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Büyükçekmece with these cultural adventures.
