Where to swim near Istanbul — Black Sea, Sea of Marmara, or Princes Islands?
Based on 1 discussion with 4 participants · Last activity: 24 days ago
TL;DR
The Black Sea is warmer than the Sea of Marmara and better for swimming in summer. Princes Islands beaches charge 800–1000 lira entry, with water around 19–20°C.
What the community said
The Black Sea runs warmer than the Sea of Marmara in summer, making it the better choice if you actually want to swim.
24 days ago Black Sea — warmer
Princes Islands beaches charge 800–1000 lira per person just to use the beach. Water temperature is around 19–20°C — similar to the Baltic Sea in summer — so swimming is not for everyone.
24 days ago Princes Islands — 800–1000 lira entry fee
Şile beach on the Black Sea is a solid day trip from Istanbul. Take a bus from Üsküdar — about 1.5 hours. The water is noticeably warmer than the Sea of Marmara.
24 days ago Şile — 1.5 hrs by bus from Üsküdar