Things To Do
in Sultanbeyli
Sultanbeyli is a densely populated, mostly residential district on Istanbul’s Asian side that grew rapidly from rural land into a commuter suburb over the past few decades. It’s characterized by high-rise apartment blocks, local shopping streets, and active neighborhood life rather than tourist attractions. The district offers easy access to green areas such as Aydos Hill and is well connected by road and public transport to central Istanbul.
Visitors will find everyday Turkish urban life, local markets, and friendly community atmosphere rather than a classic sightseeing itinerary.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a refreshing walk in the serene Sultanbeyli City Park, where the fresh air and lush greenery invigorate your senses. Enjoy a cup of traditional Turkish tea at one of the park's quaint tea houses while soaking in the morning sunshine. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the park’s sculptures and gardens before continuing your exploration.
After a leisurely morning, head to the nearby Aydos Forest for a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon hiking along the trails that wind through the forest, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife as you enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this natural retreat.
As the sun sets, make your way back to Sultanbeyli and indulge in a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant. Savor delicious dishes like kebabs and mezes, paired with a refreshing drink. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets, enjoying the lively atmosphere and perhaps stopping for some dessert at a local patisserie.
Start your day by visiting the bustling Sultanbeyli Bazaar, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and shop for fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with friendly vendors who are eager to share their stories and offer samples of their delicious products. The vibrant colors and lively chatter create a captivating atmosphere that sets the tone for your day.
After your market adventure, grab a quick lunch at a nearby eatery, enjoying authentic Turkish street food like simit or döner. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby art galleries and cultural centers that showcase local artists and craftsmen. Participate in a workshop to learn traditional handicrafts, giving you a unique hands-on experience of Turkish culture.
In the evening, head to a local café to unwind and reflect on your day while sipping on strong Turkish coffee. Enjoy live music performances that often take place in the cafés, immersing yourself further in the local culture. The warm ambiance and friendly locals make for a perfect ending to an enriching day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-10 |
| ☕Cup of coffee / tea | $1.50-3 |
| 🚌Public transport single ticket | $0.75-1.50 |
| 🚕Taxi start + 5 km | $3-8 |
| 🏠Monthly rent (1BR outside center) | $250-450 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic local atmosphere and affordable daily life
- Good access to nearby green spaces like Aydos Hill
- Well connected by road and public transport to greater Istanbul
- Not a tourist-oriented area — few attractions and limited English signage
- Busy, dense residential environment with traffic congestion during rush hours
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkürler / Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Affedersiniz" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Yardım edebilir misiniz?" - Can you help me?
- "Hesap lütfen" - Check / bill, please
Places to Visit in Sultanbeyli
Visit one of these nice places.
Highest nearby vantage point offering panoramic views of the city and sea on clear days — great for sunrise, sunset and landscape shots among pine trees.
Colorful stalls, produce and candid street scenes that capture daily life and neighborhood character.
From residential rooftops and higher apartment terraces you can photograph layered housing, sunset light on buildings and urban textures.
Small parks and tea gardens provide intimate community scenes, portrait opportunities and seasonal flora.
Food in Sultanbeyli
Sultanbeyli Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled meat skewers or döner served with rice or pide; widely available at local grills and small restaurants.
Must-Try!
Turkish dumplings topped with garlic yogurt and melted butter/chili; often found in local eateries and special restaurants.
Börek (filled pastry) and simit (sesame‑crusted bread ring) are common breakfast and snack options at bakeries across the district.
A scrambled egg dish with tomato and peppers, popular for breakfast at neighborhood cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open-air market days where vendors sell fresh fruit, vegetables, cheeses and household goods — ideal for tasting seasonal fruit and buying inexpensive local produce.
Small bakeries and street stands serve fresh simit, börek, pastries and tea throughout the day; perfect for quick snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly 'Merhaba' (hello) and a handshake go a long way. Men may shake hands with women only if the woman offers; a nod or verbal greeting is fine otherwise.
Remove shoes if invited into a home and accept offers of tea as a polite gesture. Hosts value hospitality — small gifts are appreciated.
Dress modestly in conservative neighborhoods; public displays of affection are uncommon in more traditional areas. Be respectful in mosques — remove shoes and dress modestly; women may need a headscarf.
Bargaining is common at open-air bazaars and some souvenir stalls but not in fixed-price shops or supermarkets.
Safety
Tipping in Sultanbeyli
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory: leave 5–10% in sit-down restaurants if service is good, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes. For exceptional service, larger tips are welcomed.
Turkish lira (TRY) is the local currency; cash is commonly used for small vendors. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants, and contactless payments are increasingly common. Use an Istanbulkart or local transit card for buses and metro.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures (mild to warm) and blossoming parks — ideal for walks, hiking and visiting markets. Occasional rain; bring a light jacket.
Hot and humid at peak months (July–August). Days are long and outdoor dining is common; seek shade during midday and carry water.
Crisp, comfortable weather with colorful foliage in green areas like Aydos — good for hiking and photography. Layered clothing recommended for variable days.
Cool and wet with occasional frost or snow; temperatures can be chilly, especially at night. Expect shorter daylight hours and prepare a warm coat and waterproof shoes.
Sultanbeyli at Night
Hiking in Sultanbeyli
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Closest and most popular green area: offers forested trails, picnic spots and panoramic viewpoints — suitable for short hikes and family outings.
A nearby ridge with informal trails and wooded areas for hiking and running; quieter than coastal promenades and popular with locals for weekend exercise.
A bit farther away but accessible for day trips — well-marked trails, picnic areas and a more rural forested landscape favored by hikers and cyclists.
Airports
How to reach Sultanbeyli by plane.
On Istanbul’s Asian side and the closer airport to Sultanbeyli — reachable by highway, shuttle buses and taxi in around 30–50 minutes depending on traffic.
Main international airport on the European side; farther away (often 45–90 minutes by car depending on traffic) but well connected by express buses and taxi services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of the population consists of working families who commute to jobs across Istanbul — the area has many apartment complexes and community services geared toward family life.
Residents include people and families who moved from Anatolian provinces during urbanization phases; this contributes to a blend of regional cultures and culinary traditions.
A notable number of children and young adults live in the district, reflected in active schools, playgrounds and youth sports activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport — local fields and youth clubs are common and many residents follow national and Istanbul clubs.
A popular recreational sport with neighborhood courts and local teams for children and adults.
Walking, jogging and outdoor exercise in parks and on hill trails like Aydos are common weekend activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sultanbeyli.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist (lentil soup, menemen, salads, vegetable stews, gözleme), but many eateries center on meat. Ask for 'etsiz' (without meat) and rely on mezeler, soups and bread. Large supermarkets also stock basics for self-catering.
Vegan choices are more limited but possible: vegetable dishes, salads, legumes and rice. Communicate restrictions clearly ('Ben veganım' or 'Et ve süt ürünleri yok') and look for plant-based mezes.
Bread and pastries are common; gluten-free options are less widespread. Order simple grilled meat/fish and salads, and inquire about flour-based thickeners or breading.