Başakşehir

Başakşehir is a new district which has been planned and established by the authorities considering business investments supported by the government. Located in the north-western part of Istanbul, this district is a bit remote one. Although it seems like an advantage to be close to the industrial zones, still Başakşehir is not on the top of the list for people who live in Istanbul because of the lack of transportation and social life. Even if there are a few cafes which offer nargile and tea, you shouldn’t expect to find a night life in here.

Bahçeşehir Pond with the acreage of 26.000m2 is the biggest artificial lake in Turkey. There’re several restaurants, cafes and playgrounds inside the park. Sometimes, the park hosts some concert events organized by governor. Bahçeşehir Pond is really nice and peaceful place to walk around and spend time. Also, it is favourite spot for some of the wedding photographers. You may expect to see many photographers and models whilst you visit there.

Sular Vadisi (Water Valley) is another huge park located in Bahçeşehir. It has around 4km walking-track, playgrounds and many thematic water attractions. Similar to Bahçeşehir pond, some concert and events take place here, too. Usually theme of the events hosted here are more secular.

Yarımburgaz Cave is another attraction to write about Bahçeşehir district. Scientific exploration in Yarımburgaz Cave dates back to the mid-19th century. It’s created by the erosive power of a subterranean on the western flank of hilly limestone formation facing the Sazlıdere River. The double mounted cave is the earliest evidence of human settlement Turkey. The upper cave was strongly modified in Byzantine times when a church was carved into its walls and a monastery constructed outside the cave entrance. The lower cave was demolished by illicit excavators or treasure seekers. If you would love to learn more about Yarımburgaz Cave, reading the book titled as “History of the Sedimentary Infilling of Yarımburgaz Cave, Turkey” by William R. Farrand and Jill P. McMahon is advised.

Transportation is provided by means of buses and dolmush (dolmuş) buses which will barely go to some place close to that of you want to go. As mentioned above, if you want to travel around it’s a must to have a car.