Istanbul is not only famous for its rich history and majestic architecture, but also for its peaceful green escapes, historic woods, and coastal landscapes.
- Belgrad Forest (Belgrad Ormanı): A vast oak and beech forest located on the northern European side, serving as a major ecological haven with historic Ottoman reservoirs and long walking trails.
- Atatürk Arboretum: A living tree museum situated near Belgrad Forest, featuring peaceful ponds, thousands of exotic plant species, and scenic paths ideal for nature photography.
- Prince Islands (Adalar): A group of car-free islands in the Sea of Marmara featuring pine forests, historic wooden mansions, coastal views, and cycling routes.
- Polonezköy Nature Park (Polonezköy Tabiat Parkı): A protected nature reserve on the Asian side in Beykoz, known for its dense forests, hiking tracks, and rustic countryside atmosphere.
- Emirgan Park (Emirgan Korusu): A historic urban park overlooking the Bosphorus, famous for its Ottoman pavilions, scenic terraces, and the annual spring Tulip Festival.
- Şile and Ağva: Charming coastal towns on the Black Sea coast of the Asian side, offer riverbanks, sandy beaches, coastal cliffs, and quiet nature retreats.