Full Day Tour in Sapanca & Masukiye from Istanbul

Explore the Turkish Countryside with a Full Day Tour from Istanbul

The Full Day Tour in Sapanca & Masukiye offers a refreshing escape from the busy city life of Istanbul. Priced at $21.97 per person, this approximately 10-hour journey takes travelers into the scenic villages, lakes, and hills of Turkey’s countryside. The tour departs early in the morning with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making logistics straightforward and stress-free.

Designed for those who want to experience nature without spending too much time, this tour covers several highlights: a visit to the tranquil Sapanca Lake, time spent in the charming Mahmudiye village, and adventure options like ATV rides and ziplining. While the tour is flexible and family-friendly, it’s worth noting that some activities, such as glass terrace visits, are not included in the base price. This tour offers a practical way to see Turkey’s natural beauty from Istanbul in just a day.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $21.97 with a 10-hour itinerary
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Istanbul
• Visits to Sapanca Lake, Mahmudiye village, and Masukiye for scenic views and local charm
• Optional activities like ATV, ziplining, and a visit to Kartepe ski resort in winter
• Traditional Turkish lunch and shopping for delights and honey included
• Tour suitable for families, with easy access and most travelers able to participate

Starting the Day with Convenient Hotel Pickup in Istanbul

The tour begins early at 8:30 am, with a pickup from your hotel in Istanbul. This service helps streamline the day and ensures you avoid the hassle of arranging transportation. The vehicle used for transport is described as comfortable, providing a smooth ride toward the scenic villages and natural spots.

The group size is limited to 30 travelers, promoting a personalized experience. The tour guide is licensed, and their explanations help bring the stops to life, especially at the natural sights and local markets.

Discovering Maukiye Village and Its Natural Beauty

The first stop takes place in Maukiye, known for its natural scenery and village atmosphere. This area offers a peaceful start to the day, giving travelers a chance to appreciate Turkey’s rural landscape. The stop lasts around 2 hours, providing enough time to enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed.

While the visit mainly focuses on appreciating the village’s natural charm, some reviews note that not all activities, such as visiting specific villages or attractions like the glass bridge, are included in the tour. Still, the scenic views and fresh air are highlights of this stop.

Exploring Darica and Its Seasonal Attractions

Next, the tour offers an optional visit to Darica, where guests can see the Darica Zoo during the summer months or explore Sea Lion Park or an Aquarium in winter. The admission is free, but the activities are optional, meaning you can choose how much time to spend here.

This stop provides a chance for families to see some local wildlife or enjoy a quick walk along the coast, depending on the season. The flexibility allows for a relaxed pace, especially suitable for those traveling with children.

Relaxing by Sapanca Lake

One of the key highlights is Sapanca Lake, the second-largest freshwater lake in Marmara province. The tour allocates about 1 hour here, giving visitors an opportunity to relax by the tranquil shores, enjoy tea or coffee, and take photos of the pristine waters.

The lakeside setting is perfect for a peaceful break, and the natural beauty is a major draw. The area around Sapanca Lake often features amusement parks and activity options, although these are not included in the tour price.

Lunch in Mahmudiye Village

A traditional Turkish lunch is served in Mahmudiye, a picturesque village with a flowing river and waterfalls. The meal is included in the tour price, accompanied by a soft drink, and takes roughly 1 hour.

This stop offers a genuine taste of local cuisine in a charming setting, making it a pleasant break from sightseeing. The village’s natural surroundings, combined with authentic food, add to the overall experience.

Adventure Activities in Masukiye

In Masukiye, the tour offers optional activities such as ATV safaris, ziplining, and a gigantic swing. These activities are not included in the base price and typically cost around 400 TL if you choose to participate.

Masukiye is well-known for its outdoor adventure options and natural beauty, with options suitable for families and thrill-seekers alike. Activities here provide a chance for some exciting fun amidst lush scenery, though participation requires extra cash and planning.

Visiting Kartepe Ski Resort in Winter

During the winter season, the tour includes a visit to Kartepe, a popular ski resort. Here, guests can enjoy the snow and scenic mountain views, adding a winter sports element to the day trip.

This stop is seasonal, so visiting outside of winter means missing out on the snow experience. For winter travelers, Kartepe offers an extra layer of adventure and stunning landscapes.

Viewing the Glass Terrace at 185 Meters

The Glass Terrace is a notable feature of the tour, positioned at an altitude of 185 meters. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding natural scenery from this vantage point.

While the view is impressive, it’s important to remember that the Glass Terrace entrance fee is not included in the tour price. If you want to see the landscape from this unique spot, an additional ticket is required.

Shopping at Sapanca Lake’s Shore

The tour includes about 1 hour for shopping at Sapanca Lake, where visitors can buy Turkish delights and natural honey. This provides a chance to pick up souvenirs and sample local flavors directly from the source.

This stop complements the scenic experience with a taste of local craftsmanship and treats, making it a popular spot for those wanting to bring a piece of Turkey home.

Relaxing by the Lake and Optional ATV Tour

The final part of the tour involves 2 hours at Sapanca Lake, where visitors can relax on the lake’s shores or participate in an ATV tour along the lake. This area features activity parks and a peaceful setting to unwind before heading back to Istanbul.

The ATV safari is a popular optional activity, offering a fun way to explore the landscape more dynamically. The relaxed pace here makes it a fitting end to a day filled with scenic views and light adventure.

Practical Details and Considerations

This tour is designed for most travelers, with easy access and near public transportation options. The most recent reviews suggest a solid experience, with some noting that cash is needed for optional activities, and that not all attractions (such as the glass bridge) are included.

The tour operates with a full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for changing plans. Keep in mind, the tour’s average booking window is 58 days in advance, indicating good demand.

Final Thoughts on the Sapanca & Masukiye Day Trip

The Full Day Tour in Sapanca & Masukiye offers a practical and scenic way to see Turkey’s countryside from Istanbul. It balances natural beauty, light activities, and local culture in a single day, making it appealing for families and those short on time.

While some sights require additional fees—like the Glass Terrace—the overall value remains attractive, especially considering the lunch, shopping, and easy transportation included. This tour suits travelers looking for a relaxed day out that combines nature, light adventure, and cultural touches.

For visitors wanting a straightforward, budget-friendly way to experience some of Turkey’s peaceful landscapes, this tour provides a reliable choice that highlights the best of Sapanca and Masukiye.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Istanbul hotel are included to simplify your day.

What activities are optional and require extra payment?
Activities like ATV safaris, ziplining, and a gigantic swing in Masukiye cost around 400 TL.

Can I visit Kartepe during this tour?
Yes, Kartepe ski resort is included during the winter season, offering snow and mountain views.

Is the Glass Terrace visit included?
No, the Glass Terrace entrance fee is not included and requires an additional ticket if you want to visit.

How long is the free shopping time?
There is about 1 hour allocated for shopping Turkish delights and natural honey at Sapanca Lake.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, with options for family-friendly activities like the lake and shopping, and adventure options for kids and adults alike.