Marmara Region is a region that meets 50% of Turkey’s tourism income. For this reason, the region is a place that stands out with its numerous historical and cultural riches, as well as natural beauties. Mega city Istanbul and Bursa are among the most developed tourism centers of the region.
In addition, Çanakkale, Edirne, Balıkesir and Iznik are highly developed places in terms of tourism in the region. There are many places worth seeing with their natural beauties, historical places, spas and national parks. Many places in the region are among the most prominent places when viewed from the perspective of the country in general.
1- Istanbul
When the Marmara Region is mentioned, the first thing that comes to mind is undoubtedly Istanbul. It is among the important metropolitan cities of the world with its historical values and modern facilities. Millions of local and foreign tourists flock to the city every year. The city, which has a history of about 3,000 years, has hosted countless civilizations. Due to its location, it is located at a very important point that connects the continents of Asia and Europe.
Some of the most important works of the Historic City are as follows; Topkapı and Dolmabahçe Palaces, dating from the Byzantine period; The Basilica Cistern, Galata and Maiden’s Tower, Blue Mosque, Suleymaniye Mosque, Anadolu and Rumeli Fortress, Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar are among the important touristic places. In addition to its historical places, it also stands out with its unique natural beauties. At the same time, many international events, exhibitions and seminars are held in the city. It is among the must-see places with its nature, culture, historical structures and magnificent views.
2- Canakkale
Çanakkale is one of the cities where epics are written in every inch of it. Çanakkale’s history dates back to ancient times. There are many historical buildings and important symbols that reflect the past of the city. Many cultural tours are organized to the city of Çanakkale.
Çanakkale Martyrdom and Martyrs’ Monument are among the most important places to see on these tours. Spreading over an area of 33 thousand hectares, Gallipoli Peninsula National Park is on the World Heritage List with its 3500-year-old story. At the same time in the region; There is the Ancient City of Troy, the historical Kilit Bahir, the city walls, the castle and the Temple of Athena, which has hosted many civilizations. It is one of the important cities with its magnificent sea and beaches.
3- Uludag
Uludag, located within the borders of Bursa province, is the most important winter and nature sports center of Turkey with its height of 2543 meters. Uludag, the highest mountain of the Marmara Region, stretches for 40 kilometers in the northwest-southeast direction. The highest point of the mountain is Uludağ Hill.
In addition to nature sports, there are approximately 28 Monasteries on Uludag. Monasteries were founded by Christian monks during the Roman Empire. Bursa was captured during the Orhan Gazi period. In this period, some of the monasteries where monks lived on the mountain were abandoned. Instead, they became places where Muslim dervishes such as Doğlu Baba, Geyikli Baba, Abdal Murat retreated. After Bursa was conquered, this mountain was named “Mountain of Monks”. It is a place that stands out with its nature, historical places, winter sports and the beauties of Bursa.
4- Islands
There are 10 islands in the Sea of Marmara. These islands are among the places that come to the fore as settlements, entertainment and recreation centers. It is named as Big Island, Heybeli Island, Kınalı Island, Burgaz Island, Sedef Island, Kaşık Island, Rabbit Island, Pide Island. The most important of these islands are Büyükada and Heybeli island. The islands are called “Prince Island” because they were used as the exile place of the princes in the Roman period. It is one of the most important tourism areas with its historical structures, natural beauties and beaches.
5- Sapanca Lake
Located in the east of the Marmara Region, the lake is a freshwater lake that connects the Adapazarı Plain and the Gulf of Izmit. The lake is based on Sakarya in the east and Kocaeli in the west. The lake, which takes its name from the Sapanca district, has a natural wonder surrounded by forests. The lake, which was formed as a result of tectonic movements, has a length of about 16 kilometers.
In the town center of Sapanca, you can take a walk on the shore of the lake and enjoy the magnificent view. It is also possible to organize excursions by renting a boat on it. There are camping and picnic areas around. In addition, national and international surfing, sailing and rowing competitions are held on the lake. The lake welcomes many visitors for tourism and sports purposes.
6- Thermal Spas
Thermal spas in Yalova province have an important place in terms of country tourism. Hot spring waters are a source of healing. For this reason, it is a place frequented by domestic and foreign tourists. The thermal springs became unusable due to neglect in the Republican Period. But Atatürk, who visited here, gave importance to the hot springs and opened the use. After that day, hot spring waters are in high demand as a source of healing.
7- Manyas Bird Lake
Lake Manyas is located within the borders of Bandırma district of Balıkesir province of Marmara Region. The lake, which is formed as a result of depression movements, is a wide and shallow freshwater lake. Its average depth is around 1-2 meters, and its deepest point is 4 meters. The lake, whose water is constantly cloudy, is very rich in terms of plankton and bottom creatures. For this reason, it is highly developed in terms of wildlife.
The lake consists of reeds, flooded meadows, maquis and willow communities. In the lake, which is home to hundreds of birds; There are many bird species such as Crested Pelican, small Cormorant, Egret, night heron, lapwing. For this reason, it is called “Manyas Bird Paradise”. It is one of the important areas where birds migrate and prefer for breeding. It is visited by many people in order to see different bird species and to get to know its magnificent nature.
8- Kaz Mountains
Kaz Mountains are one of the important wealth of the country. The natural wonder region, which is depicted as a gift from the gods, is located on the Biga Peninsula. The highest point of Kaz Mountain, which has 3 peaks, is 1774 meters. The place referred to as Karataş Hill is located in Edremit district of Balıkesir, in the northern direction of Güre Town.
Kaz Mountains is a beautiful geography covered with red pine forests, olive groves, oak and larch forests. The region, which is quite cool even in the middle of summer, is a favorite place for those who want to get rid of the heat. The geography, which offers a different beauty in every season, stands out with its cold water springs, waterfalls, chirping bird sounds and national parks.
9- Cunda Island
Cunda Island, also known as Ali Bey Island; It is connected to the Ayvalık district of Balikesir. It is one of the 22 islands of various sizes, known as Ayvalık Islands, located in Ayvalık Bay. It is the only island open to settlement among these 22 islands. It is the 4th largest island in the Aegean Sea. The island has a fascinating beauty with its Greek architecture streets, Cretan cuisine and sunsets. The island is very popular with its beaches, bazaars, churches, monasteries and camping areas. Especially the view of the island and Ayvalık from the Lovers’ Hill is among the places worth seeing.
10- Sile
Şile is a district of Istanbul on the Anatolian side of Istanbul. The history of the town, located on the Black Sea coast, dates back to ancient times. According to the researches, it is said that the history of Şile dates back to the polished stone age. Many structures bearing the characteristics of the Paleolithic age were identified in the researches. Having hosted many societies throughout history, Şile has continued to preserve its natural beauty.
The city, which has many places to see, attracts attention with its green and blue. The district, which is located approximately 60 kilometers from Istanbul, is very busy for those who want to relieve the tiredness of the day on weekends. It is also one of the places preferred by those who want to get away from the city and spend a peaceful time in nature.
