Belgrad Forest
A mixed deciduous forest with centuries-old reservoirs, named after a Serbian village settled here in 1521. Perfect for walks and picnics.
Belgrad Forest, the easternmost green spur of the Thracian Peninsula, lies just north of Istanbul’s city limits. The name dates back to Serb families deported from Belgrade after the Ottoman conquest in 1521, who settled a village here. Now the forest straddles Sarıyer and Eyüp, a mix of oak, beech, and chestnut trees.
Scattered throughout are historical reservoirs like Bentler, Ayvad, and Kirazlıbent—water supply works from the Ottoman era that have become quiet, reflective ponds. Walking paths wind between them, shaded and mostly empty on weekdays.
Weekends bring picnickers, especially near the Bahçeköy entrance; if you want solitude, walk deeper toward the reservoirs and you’ll likely have the trails almost to yourself.
“Fresh air, old Ottoman reservoirs, and easy walks just 45 minutes from the city center.”
From Bahçeköy gate, walk 15 minutes uphill and you'll reach Kirazlıbent Bend—most weekend crowds never stray this far.
Unpaved paths and steep sections; not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
Good to know
- Is Belgrad Forest free to visit?
- Free. Car or bus to Bahçeköy gates; picnic areas fill on summer weekends
- How long should you spend at Belgrad Forest?
- ~2h
- When is the best time to visit Belgrad Forest?
- Morning
- Is Belgrad Forest wheelchair accessible?
- Unpaved paths and steep sections; not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
