Autumn Escapes from Istanbul with a Private Transfer

I think we can all agree that autumn makes every journey feel a little more special.

When the leaves start to turn golden, the forests become quieter and the air gets crisp and refreshing, it’s the perfect time to leave the city behind and enjoy a peaceful weekend away. If you’re a couple living in Istanbul, a private transfer can turn a simple weekend into a slow and memorable getaway—no need to worry about driving, parking or navigating unfamiliar roads.

From misty lakes and colourful forests to thermal waters and quiet island shores, here are five beautiful autumn escapes you can comfortably discover from Istanbul.

1. A Symphony of Autumn Colours: Yedigöller National Park

Just three or three and a half hours from Istanbul, Yedigöller National Park is one of the most beautiful places to experience the colours of autumn.

Beech, oak and hornbeam trees make the landscape look like gold, amber and deep red, while the forest’s reflection shimmers across the park’s peaceful lakes. With its winding paths, wooden bridges and quiet corners, Yedigöller feels like an open-air painting during the autumn months.

A romantic moment: Take a stroll across the wooden bridges, then find a cosy spot by the lake and enjoy a warm coffee while the morning mist gently settles over the water.

2. A Classic Lakeside Retreat: Abant Lake National Park

Around three hours from Istanbul via the TEM motorway, Abant Lake National Park is an effortless choice for a cosy autumn weekend.

The walking trail surrounding the lake becomes covered with fallen golden leaves as the temperature drops, creating the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll. After a day outdoors, the warmth of a lakeside hotel, a crackling fireplace and a comforting drink make the evening feel even more inviting.

A romantic moment: Take a traditional horse-drawn carriage around the lake, or simply walk hand in hand along the shore before settling somewhere warm for a cup of salep or a glass of mulled wine.

Sometimes, the most memorable journeys are the ones that leave plenty of room to slow down.

3. Forest, Thermal Waters & Deep Relaxation: Yalova

Just a short journey from Istanbul, Yalova offers a beautiful combination of forest, wellness and tranquillity.

After crossing the Marmara Sea by ferry from Eskihisar to Topçular, you can reach Yalova in approximately one and a half to two hours, depending on traffic and ferry conditions. The region is known for its thermal hotels, peaceful forests and nature trails—making it an ideal destination when you want to recharge both body and mind.

Autumn is particularly beautiful here. A quiet walk among the trees can feel like a natural reset, while the Japanese concept of shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing”, offers a simple way to slow down and reconnect with nature.

For those looking for a more immersive experience, you can also explore forest-bathing activities around Kurtköy and include them in a tailor-made travel programme.

A romantic moment: Spend the afternoon breathing in the cool autumn air among the trees, then unwind together in warm thermal waters as the day comes to an end.

For a complete escape: Anas Crecca Travel can arrange a personalised combination of private transfer, accommodation, thermal wellness and nature experiences—so you can enjoy both the freedom of the forest and the comfort of a relaxing hotel.

4. Wild Nature Close to the City: Ballıkayalar Nature Park

Not every autumn escape needs to be a long journey.

Located in Gebze, Kocaeli, Ballıkayalar Nature Park is approximately a one-and-a-half-hour drive from central Istanbul, depending on traffic. It is an ideal choice when you want to step away from the city for a few hours without committing to a full weekend trip.

The park’s canyon, stream bed and woodland create a surprisingly wild atmosphere so close to Istanbul. In autumn, the changing colours of the trees add another layer of beauty to the landscape, while the sound of flowing water makes the area feel wonderfully removed from the city.

A romantic moment: Pack a small autumn picnic and find a peaceful spot beside the stream, or take a gentle walk through the canyon hand in hand.

Sometimes, you do not need to go far to feel far away.

5. For those who still want the sea: Marmara Island

If you’re not into the whole forests and lakes thing for your autumn getaway, then Marmara Island is a whole other world.

When the summer crowds have gone, the island gets a bit quieter. You can get to Marmara Island by ferry from the Marmara region. It’s got olive groves, traditional stone houses, peaceful streets and uncrowded bays, so it’s a great place to visit in autumn.

Here, it’s not about cramming your day with activities. It’s about going for walks without a plan, finding quiet spots and watching the colours of the evening change over the sea.

A romantic moment: Take a stroll around the island or hop on your bike to explore during the day, then wind down with a leisurely dinner at a local seafood restaurant right on the shore.

Why Choose an Island Escape?

For couples who love the sea and want to experience a different side of autumn, Marmara Island offers a refreshing alternative to the classic forest-and-lake getaway.

Your Autumn Escape, Made Personal

Autumn does not ask you to rush.

It invites you to take the scenic road, spend a little longer over breakfast, walk beneath golden trees, breathe in the forest air and watch the sunset without checking the time.

Whether you are looking for a romantic weekend beside a lake, a peaceful forest retreat, a thermal wellness escape or a quiet island getaway, Anas Crecca Travel can help you turn your idea into a comfortable, personalised journey from Istanbul.

With private transfers, carefully selected accommodation and tailor-made experiences, your autumn escape can begin the moment you leave the city.