Daily Sapanca & Maukiye & Mahmudiye Tour with Lunch from Istanbul

A Day in Turkish Countryside: Sapanca, Maukiye, and Mahmudiye from Istanbul

If you’re craving a break from Istanbul’s busy streets, this daily tour to Sapanca, Maukiye, and Mahmudiye offers a refreshing glimpse of Turkey’s lush rural landscape. For around $29, you’ll spend about 12 to 13 hours exploring scenic lakes, forests, and charming villages, with stops to enjoy local specialties and panoramic views. With a pickup service from the European side of Istanbul, the trip is designed to be accessible and straightforward.

What we particularly like about this experience are two things: first, the chance to see Sapanca Lake, known for its tranquility and natural beauty, and second, the opportunity to enjoy local treats at a Turkish delight factory—a sweet reward after the long journey. On the other hand, a possible consideration is the timing and schedule flexibility, as some reviews mention inconsistent stops and less-than-ideal food quality.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy nature, scenic vistas, and cultural highlights without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s especially good for those who want a taste of Turkey’s countryside in a day, with the convenience of guided transportation and the option to indulge in some light activities like ATV riding or visiting zoos.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenery: Enjoy lakes, forests, and mountain views that showcase Turkey’s natural beauty.
• Cultural Stops: Visit a Turkish delight factory and small villages to experience local life.
• Flexible Activities: Optional quad biking and visits to zoos add fun and variety.
• Affordable Price: At around $29, the tour offers good value, especially with included lunch.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides in English and Arabic enhance the trip.
• Potential Drawbacks: Some stops may be rushed or not meet expectations, and food quality can vary.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: A Long but Scenic Ride from Istanbul

We begin early in the morning, with a pickup from centrally located hotels on the European side. The journey to Sapanca lasts roughly 2 hours, giving us plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the sights along the way. It’s worth noting that most travelers report the trip takes about 12 to 13 hours in total, so be prepared for a full day.

Stop 1: Sapanca and the Delight Factory

After the drive, the first stop is at a Turkish delight factory—a sweet touch that’s perfect for souvenir shopping or just sampling local treats. The reviews note this is a 50-minute stop, free of charge, which provides a nice break to stretch and explore. The factory visit allows you to see how these iconic treats are made and purchase authentic Turkish delights.

Stop 2: Maukiye—Lush Nature and Forests

Next, we visit Maukiye, a small, verdant neighborhood famed for its dense forests and natural beauty. This stop also lasts about 50 minutes and is a great chance to breathe in fresh air and take photos of the pristine surroundings. Many travelers find Maukiye’s peaceful environment a welcome contrast to Istanbul’s hustle.

Stop 3: Mahmudiye—A Village of Greenery

Following Maukiye, we head to Mahmudiye, a village renowned for its rivers, forests, and relaxed vibe. Here, you can take in the quiet beauty of rural Turkey, perfect for a quick walk or just enjoying the scenery. This stop lasts about an hour and is ideal for nature lovers.

Main Attraction: Sapanca Lake

The highlight of the day is the 1.5-hour visit to Sapanca Lake, a serene body of water surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a popular weekend destination for locals and visitors alike. Here, you can stroll along the lakeshore, take photographs, or just sit and absorb the peaceful atmosphere. The lake’s beauty is often praised, and it provides a perfect setting for relaxation.

Optional Activities and Extra Stops

• Faruk Yalcin Zoo: Situated nearby, this zoo can be visited if time allows, though the entrance fee is 180 Turkish Liras and is not included in the tour price. Some reviews mention this stop as a highlight, especially for families or animal lovers.
• Quad Biking (ATV): If you’re feeling adventurous, an optional quad bike ride in Sapanca is available, lasting about an hour. While free, it’s not included in the tour price, but many find it adds a fun element.
• Additional Time in Sapanca: For those who want to relax or explore further, there’s an extra hour allocated back in Sapanca for resting or enjoying local cafes.

End of the Day: Return to Istanbul

The tour wraps up with a drop-off back at your hotel, typically in the late afternoon or early evening. The journey back includes some conversational moments with your guides, who are typically praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews reveal a generally positive impression, with some notable points. For example, Marcos appreciated the trip as a chance for “a close encounter with nature, forests, mountains, and Lake Sapanca,” highlighting the scenic appeal. Meanwhile, Russ enjoyed the experience despite bad weather, emphasizing that the views and scenery made it worth it.

However, not all experiences have been perfect. Thomas criticizes the food quality, describing the meal as “very poor,” with raw chicken, and notes the schedule was somewhat inconsistent, with some stops skipped or rushed. He also mentions the tour felt more like a general day out rather than a guided experience.

This feedback underscores the importance of managing expectations: if you’re looking for a well-organized, gourmet day out, this might fall short. But if you’re after beautiful scenery, a relaxed pace, and authentic local ambiance, it can deliver.

Practical Details and Considerations

Transportation and Group Size

You’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with a professional guide speaking English and Arabic. The group size caps at 25, making it a relatively intimate experience. The pick-up service from hotels in Istanbul’s European side adds convenience, but some travelers note it’s near public transportation, easing access if your hotel isn’t on the list.

Timing and Schedule

The tour starts at 9:00 am, and with a full day planned, be prepared for a long but scenic journey. The schedule is fairly flexible but can be affected by traffic or weather conditions. Notably, the zoo visit and quad biking are optional, so plan accordingly if interested in these extras.

Cost and Value

At about $29.37 per person, this tour presents a very affordable way to experience some of Turkey’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning. Lunch is included, with a soft drink, adding to the value. However, additional costs for activities like the zoo or ATV rides mean the overall experience can vary depending on your choices.

Weather and Seasonality

The tour operates year-round, except during Ramadan and certain holidays. Keep in mind that weather conditions can influence the experience—bad weather might limit outdoor activities or diminish scenic views, as some reviews have noted.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is best suited for budget-conscious travelers who want a taste of Turkey’s countryside and are comfortable with a long day of travel. It’s excellent for nature lovers and those who appreciate scenic lakes and forests. Travelers interested in local treats and light outdoor activities will find it especially appealing.

However, if you’re seeking a luxurious, gourmet experience or a tightly scheduled tour with detailed guided commentary, this might not meet your expectations. Also, if you’re concerned about food quality or punctuality, it’s worth considering.

The Sum Up

For just under $30, this tour offers a cost-effective way to escape Istanbul’s busy streets and enjoy some of Turkey’s most beautiful natural sights. The stops at Sapanca Lake and the lush villages are genuinely scenic, and the inclusion of lunch and a guide makes it convenient for travelers. While some reviews mention inconsistencies and food issues, many find that the relaxed pace and friendly guides make for a pleasant day.

If you’re craving a nature-focused, affordable day trip, this tour is a solid choice—especially if you’re flexible and open to a casual, scenic experience rather than a perfectly curated one. It’s worth considering if your goal is to connect with Turkey’s rural charm and enjoy some simple pleasures away from urban hustle.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are available only from hotels on the European side of Istanbul, making it convenient if you’re staying nearby.

How long is the whole trip?
Expect around 12 to 13 hours from start to finish, including travel, stops, and return.

What’s included in the price?
Lunch with a soft drink, a professional bilingual guide, and air-conditioned transportation are included. Entrance to Sapanca Lake and the delight factory are free.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the zoo entrance fee (180 Turkish Liras) and optional activities like quad biking are extra.

Can I customize the stops or activities?
The schedule is set, but optional activities like quad biking can be added if you pay separately. Some stops may be skipped or shortened depending on time.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s outdoor and nature-based stops suggest it could be suitable for families, especially those interested in animals or lakes.

What about food quality?
Some guests have critiqued the lunch as poor, so if you have specific dietary needs or high expectations, it’s good to keep that in mind.

How scenic are the views?
Very scenic! Expect lakeside vistas, forested hills, and mountain panoramas—perfect for photography or just relaxing.

Is the tour operated year-round?
Yes, except during Ramadan, 1st May, and 1st January. Weather considerations might influence some activities.

This tour offers a straightforward, affordable way to see some of Turkey’s most inviting countryside. Whether you’re after peaceful lakes, charming villages, or just a change of scenery, it’s a journey worth considering—just keep your expectations in check and enjoy the natural beauty at your own pace.