If you’re planning a summer holiday in Turkey that combines sun, sea, Turkish cuisine, history, and comfort – but want to avoid the crowds of Antalya or Bodrum – then it’s time to discover Büyükçekmece.
This charming seaside district lies on the European side of Istanbul, about 35 km west of the city center. While it has been popular with locals for decades, it’s only recently becoming a destination for international travelers, especially those from the Balkans.
I’m lucky enough to visit Büyükçekmece several times a year – my grandmother bought an apartment here back in the 1970s, when this area was still a quiet fishing village. Today, Büyükçekmece is a lively seaside district of Istanbul, offering modern infrastructure, excellent transport connections, a variety of attractions, and most importantly – a unique local spirit.
How to get to Büyükçekmece
Reaching Büyükçekmece is simple. From central Istanbul, it’s less than an hour by car. If you’re relying on public transport, take the Metrobus to Beylikdüzü Son Durak and continue with a short taxi ride or a local minibus.
From Istanbul Airport (IST), the Havaist shuttle buses connect to the western districts of the city, where you can transfer easily to Büyükçekmece. With an Istanbulkart and a bit of patience, you can explore the whole city at a very low cost.
Driving is also an option. I personally travel from Zagreb to Büyükçekmece by car at least once a year – my record was 14 hours with just one 30-minute stop!
Things to do in Büyükçekmece – seaside, food & culture
What makes Büyükçekmece special is the diversity of things to do – all within walking distance.
1. The seafront promenade & Marina Kıyı
The heart of Büyükçekmece is its long seaside promenade lined with palm trees, sculptures, fountains, and cafés. Life here flows slowly: coffee in the morning, gozleme or kumpir in the afternoon, and a glass of Turkish rakı with fresh seafood at sunset.
Fun fact: The promenade is almost 13 kilometers long, making it one of the longest in Istanbul. Locals use it for cycling, rollerblading, jogging, or just evening strolls with the family.
2. Local food experiences
- Albatros Restaurant – a must-visit for fresh fish and traditional Turkish dishes.
- Bahçe Caffe – famous for its gozleme with meat, cheese, potato, or spinach.
- Coffee Lab, Starbucks & Gloria Jeans – perfect spots for digital nomads, with seafront views and reliable Wi-Fi.
- The Hunger (Marina Kiyi) – international and local dishes – ideal for brunch or dinner
- Kiper Pastanesi – the best pastry in area and good breakfast options
- Sümela Akçaabat Köfte Karadeniz Pide – amazing Black sea side style Köfte and Karadeniz Pide
- Cookshop (Marina Kiyi) – various international and local dishes with nice view over the beach
3. Büyükçekmece beach
The Büyükçekmece Beach is one of the newest seaside highlights on the European side of Istanbul, recently developed to provide both locals and visitors with a clean and well-maintained sandy shoreline. Unlike many urban beaches in Istanbul, this stretch is wide, modern, and designed for comfort, with sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and family-friendly facilities. Along the beach, you’ll find a lively promenade filled with cafés, restaurants, and dessert shops, making it easy to spend the entire day by the sea.
In the mornings, the area is perfect for a peaceful walk or coffee by the water, while evenings transform it into a buzzing spot where people enjoy fresh seafood, Turkish meze, or just a drink with friends. With its combination of a new sandy beach, excellent facilities, and plenty of dining options, Büyükçekmece Beach has quickly become a favorite summer escape for Istanbul residents and a hidden gem for international travelers.
4. Where to stay in Büyükçekmece
A top pick is Eser Premium Hotel & Spa, located just 50 meters from the beach. It offers spacious rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, and a rooftop Turkish hammam – the perfect place to unwind after a beach day. Another, a bit budget option is Turkuaz Hotel Büyükcekmece located on the beach.
Cultural attractions in Büyükçekmece
Büyükçekmece is not only about beaches and seaside cafés — it’s also a district with deep historical roots and impressive cultural landmarks.
- Mimar Sinan Bridge (Kanuni Sultan Süleyman Bridge) – Built in the 16th century by the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, this stone bridge once connected the two sides of the bay. With its 28 elegant arches stretching across 635 meters, it remains one of the most remarkable engineering achievements of the Ottoman era.
- Kültür Park (Culture Park) – An open-air museum and recreational area where history and leisure meet. Here you’ll find:
- The Small Sokullu Mehmet Pasha Mosque – a unique mosque with a single-piece stone minaret, one of only two examples in the world (the other is in Egypt).
- The Historic Han (Caravanserai) – once a resting stop for traders and travelers along the Silk Road, today it has been restored as a vibrant cultural venue hosting exhibitions, workshops, and performances.
- Interactive installations, children’s play areas, and evening events that make it a lively meeting place for families.
- Atatürk Museum of Reforms (Devrimleri Müzesi) – Located inside the modern Kıyı Istanbul Marina, this museum is dedicated to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. Exhibits showcase his life, vision, and the reforms that shaped the Turkish Republic.
- Büyükçekmece New Mosque (Büyükçekmece Merkez Camii) – A recently built, modern mosque with elegant Ottoman-inspired architecture. It has become a new landmark of the district, blending tradition with contemporary design and serving as a spiritual center for the community.
- International Culture and Art Festival – Every summer, Büyükçekmece hosts one of the largest folklore festivals in the world, bringing together performers from over 60 countries. Parades, concerts, dances, and cultural exchanges make this a highlight of the district’s calendar
Shopping & local life
If you want a break from the beach, head to Marmara Park Mall or Perlavista AVM – large shopping centers nearby with both international brands and Turkish fashion labels.
For a more authentic experience, visit the Büyükçekmece Bazaar, held weekly (on Saturdays), where locals shop for fresh produce, spices, textiles, and traditional household goods. Bargaining is expected and part of the fun!
Don’t leave without trying lokma – small fried dough balls soaked in syrup, a street food favorite.
Day trip to Kumburgaz – a local favorite
For a quieter experience, head to Kumburgaz, a coastal area of Büyükçekmece known for its long sandy beaches and laid-back atmosphere. The water here is warmer and calmer than in the Aegean, making it ideal for families and children.
Don’t expect crystal-clear waters like in Croatia or Antalya – this is the Marmara Sea, but it’s perfect for a relaxing swim. Prices are budget-friendly compared to Antalya, Bodrum, or Croatia: beach coffee, gozleme for two, or ice cream won’t break the bank. Local bakeries, markets, and dessert shops make it easy to spend the whole day without going back to your hotel.
Events & festivals in Büyükçekmece
- Büyükçekmece Culture and Arts Festival – internationally recognized, held every summer.
- Various Festivals and Concerts – along the seaside promenade, featuring Turkish pop stars and folk music.
- Ramadan Nights – lively iftar gatherings with street food stalls, traditional sweets, and cultural performances.
Why visit Büyükçekmece Istanbul?
Büyükçekmece is one of those places where you still hear the sound of waves instead of constant traffic. People talk to each other rather than only to their phones, and you can enjoy everything Istanbul has to offer – but with less stress.
If you’re looking for a new destination in Turkey that combines authenticity, relaxation, history, and culture, Büyükçekmece is waiting for you.
