Aah, walking. It’s that thing we do every time we’re not sleeping or laying on the couch gazing at the beauty of the wall. We do it so frequently that we stopped perceiving it as a physical activity, but rather as a way to go from one spot to another. So for a bit of encouragement, here are a few spots where you can take a long, joyful, and mind-relaxing walk in the midst of busy Istanbul.
1. Caddebostan Coast
Caddebostan Sahil is on the Asian side, with a variety of things available to do. When it comes to walking, they have a unique, scenic walking track between Caddebostan and Fenerbahçe, where you can walk by the seaside and smell the fresh sea air and enjoy the amazing view of the water and islands. So, if you want to boost your immune system, it’s open 24/7, whether it’s day, night, summer, or winter. Meanwhile, if you’re up for a picnic, a bike ride, or just want to rent some roller blades, then you’ve also found your destination.
2. Bebek
If you don’t know it yet, Bebek is a rather intriguing part of Istanbul. It’s a quiet neighbourhood somewhat outside the city center, and it runs along the Bosphorus strait, which results in some of the city’s most marvelous waterfront views. This attractive natural location was a favorite among Ottoman aristocrats who picked Bebek’s ideal location to build their summer houses and palaces. Today it is still a popular residential area. If you want a place away from the crowd, have a peaceful walk, and improve your heart health and circulation, then definitely head over there and start moving!
3. Bağdat Avenue
AKA Bağdat Caddesi. It’s one of the grandest, longest shopping avenues in Istanbul and it’s located in Kadıköy on the Asian side, named after the Bağdat military campaign in the Ottoman Empire under Sultan Murat IV. It starts in Bostancı and it goes along until Bostancı bridge in Kızıltoprak. It’s a popular destination for local and foreign tourists, as well as local residents. It measures around 9 kilometers, with many shops on both sides from low to high end, plus a huge variety of restaurants and cafes. In addition, what makes it a great spot for walking, is it has a wide sidewalk which makes it a pedestrian-friendly avenue. What are you waiting for? If you want stronger bones and improved stamina, then walking over there should be next on your to-do list.
4. Balat Sahil
This charming destination has a track that is 3 kilometers long and is a perfect spot if you would like to see some place new while getting exercise. But, be careful! As there are many people on the beach who are fishing and the fishermen may interrupt your workout (unintentionally, of course). However, the views are incredible! You can also take a short Balat tour after the walk, and then relax and enjoy. So go lift your mood and improve your memory by taking a walk while indulging in the social atmosphere and scenery!
5. Moda Sahil
The Moda coast, located between Kadıköy and Kalamış, is one of the most famous places for those looking for an area with a nice sea view, green spaces for chilling and having a good time, or to simply do some walking or running. In addition, it’s a distinct place with various coffee shops and restaurants all around. There’s a track there that’s only about 1.2 kilometers long, but you can be sure you won’t get bored. You get a tremendous view of the water, people are all around enjoying the atmosphere – whether they’re sitting on the rocks opposite to the sea or on the grass – and then there’s plenty of tea/coffee sellers passing by. So, if you want to improve your creative thinking ability and enjoy that sense of accomplishment, let’s go!
All in all, these are just few places of so many that you can go to have a nice stress-relieving walk. I chose them based on their popularity and location, however, you could of course literally take on physical activity anywhere, whether it’s going to a walking spot, or just strolling around the streets randomly. In addition, If you take the bus, get off a stop early and walk that extra distance, or if you drive, then park your car a bit far from where you live and enjoy that little extra walk! As Buddha said, “No one saves us but ourselves. No one can and no one may. We ourselves must walk the path.” It might be random, but no one can do the walking for you can they?
This article was originally published on December 12, 2019, by Abdullah Kilany.
