Our distinctive tourism programs

Izmit (İzmit), the capital of Kocaeli Province in northern Turkey, is a city of great industrial and tourism significance. 

Located on the eastern coast of the Sea of Marmara, it has stunning beaches, some of which are internationally renowned. 

Its relative proximity to Istanbul makes it a frequent choice for day trips and short holidays in the region. 

This article will introduce you to the gems of Izmit, Kocaeli, and its magnificent surroundings.

Location and History of Izmit

Izmit, or Izmid, is located in northwest Turkey, bordered by the Sea of Marmara to the north and the Sapanca Mountains to the south. To its east lies Sakarya Province, and to the west is Istanbul. The city covers an area of approximately 1,408 square kilometers, with a population of about 361,000 as of 2021.

Izmit was established on the site of the ancient Greek city of Nicomedia, which dates back to the 4th century BC. It flourished during the Byzantine Empire and became part of the Ottoman Empire in the 14th century. 

The city saw significant development in infrastructure and industry, particularly in the 20th century, housing major petrochemical, rubber, and paper factories. Its active port is one of the largest in the Sea of Marmara, boosting maritime trade.

Despite its industrial character, Izmit contains captivating historical and natural sites like Lake Sapanca and Basiskele Beach.
 

How Far is Izmit from Istanbul and How to Get There

Izmit is about 100 kilometers from Istanbul, and the travel time between the two cities depends on the mode of transportation and traffic. 

By car, the journey takes about one and a half to two hours via the E80 or O-4 highway. 

Here are more travel options between Istanbul and Izmit:

• High-Speed Train (Yüksek Hızlı Tren - YHT)
  The trip takes about an hour and a quarter. You can board the train at Haydarpasa Train Station in Istanbul and arrive at Izmit Train Station.
• Bus
  The bus journey between Izmit and Istanbul takes between an hour and a half to two and a half hours, depending on traffic. Buses regularly depart from Istanbul's main bus station (Esenler Otogari) to Izmit's bus station.

Due to the short distance between Izmit and Istanbul, there are no direct flights, and people prefer traveling by road or train.

Best Places to Visit in Izmit

Izmit, Turkey, blends antiquity with modernity, reflected in its array of tourist attractions worth visiting. Here are the top spots:

1. Ruins of Nicomedia in Izmit
   For lovers of ancient Greek city ruins, this archaeological site offers remnants of the strong walls of Nicomedia, Roman architectural touches like the amphitheater and Roman baths, and St. George's Church built during the Byzantine era.
2. Kocaeli Palace Museum in Izmit
   A splendid place that was a historic palace and is now a museum showcasing a collection of artistic and historical works.
3. Upside Down House in Izmit
   A famous and whimsical landmark in Izmit, its base is suspended in the air, and its roof rests on the ground, giving the impression of being turned upside down, creating a fantastical feeling.
4. Sultan Orhan Gazi Mosque in Izmit
   One of the oldest and most famous mosques in Izmit. It dates back to the Ottoman period and features unique architectural beauty.
5. Lake Sapanca East of Izmit
   Located east of Izmit, this lake is a fantastic spot for enjoying nature and relaxing, with activities like boating and fishing.
6. Masukiye Village
   A captivating rural gem east of Izmit, nestled in nature between forests and mountains, surrounded by scenic areas.
7. Kartepe Mountains (Kartepe Dağı)
   An ideal place near Maşukiye east of Izmit for nature lovers and winter sports enthusiasts, offering stunning views and opportunities for skiing in winter.
8. Wonderland Park in Izmit
   One of the main recreational landmarks in Izmit. Located on the eastern coast of the Sea of Marmara near residential and commercial areas, it is a fantastic place for families with vast green spaces, grassy climbing walls, an artificial lake, children's playgrounds, and facilities suitable for all ages, including a theater that hosts live performances.
9. Kocaeli University (Kocaeli Üniversitesi)
   A leading public university in Turkey. Established in 1992, its main campus is in Izmit, comprising faculties like engineering, medicine, science, arts, economics, and communications, alongside undergraduate and graduate programs in various specialties.

Charming Beaches of Izmit

Izmit's beaches offer the joy of engaging in marine activities. Here are the top spots you must visit:

1. Basiskele Beach
   One of the largest and most famous beaches in Izmit. It stretches 2.4 km with extensive walking and cycling areas, making it a prime spot for relaxation and summer vacations. The beach offers panoramic views and opportunities for various water sports such as swimming, skiing, and rowing.
2. Izmit Marina Beach
   It is a wonderful place on the Sea of Marmara in Izmit, known for its yacht restaurants and seafood dishes.
3. Izmit Marina
   A place where you can rent boats and yachts for a sea tour in the Sea of Marmara.

Hotels in Izmit

Thanks to its tourist-friendly and residential environment, Izmit and its surroundings have numerous important hotels suitable for all budgets. 

These hotels share amenities such as excellent comfort and furnishings, in addition to luxury services in many of them. Here are some of the best:

• Wellborn Luxury Hotel

 A 5-star hotel located in the Basiskele area of Izmit, in a luxurious building overlooking the Sea of Marmara, 200 meters from the coast. It offers modern, comfortable rooms with Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and marble bathrooms. 

Some rooms have balconies or terraces with sea views. Suites include sitting areas and Jacuzzis, with 24-hour room service available. The hotel has two restaurants, a spa offering the traditional Turkish bath experience, saunas, steam rooms, and indoor and outdoor pools.

• Balturk Hotel Izmit

A 4-star hotel located in the Yahya Kaptan area of Izmit, amidst gardens filled with palm trees. 

Ideal for those who prefer staying in cities rather than their outskirts, it is one kilometer from the D605 road, 6 kilometers from the clock tower, and 7 kilometers from the Kocaeli Museum. 

Rooms feature Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, fridges, and tea and coffee makers. Suites include sitting areas and small kitchens. 

The hotel is known for its Japanese and Italian restaurants, gym, and spa that offer a traditional Finnish bath.

• Hampton by Hilton Kocaeli

A 3-star hotel located in the Basiskele area of Izmit overlooking the Sea of Marmara. Rooms have double beds with the option for an extra bed, air conditioning, TV, fridge, Wi-Fi, and hairdryers. It offers a delicious free breakfast with no hidden fees. 

The hotel includes a fitness lounge and garden and is close to Arastapark Shopping and Lifestyle Center, which offers a supermarket, cinema, various shops, and many of Izmit's restaurants and cafes.