The Turkish city of Istanbul straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait.

Its Old City reflects cultural influences of empires that once ruled here.

In the Sultanahmet district, the open-air, Roman-era Hippodrome was the site of chariot races, and Egyptian obelisks also remain.

The Byzantine Hagia Sophia features a 6th-century dome.

İstanbul provides cycle routes geared to exploring the city and its surrounds.

Caddebostan Coastline

The Caddebostan Coastline, on the Asian Side, is popular with cyclists, walkers and joggers.

A five kilometer-long route starts in Moda, giving an opportunity to cycle beside the sea and with a view of the Princes' Islands.

One side of this broad pathway is a park.

Princes' Islands

Situated in the Sea of Marmara off the coast of İstanbul, the Princes' Islands take in Büyükada, Heybeliada, Kınalıada and Burgazada.

Cars are not allowed here and all roads lead to the sea.

Designated cycle routes go past historic houses and take in Princes' Island's natural beauty.

European side of the Bosphorus

Another cycle route takes in the Bosphorus coastline.

The European Side of Bosphorus is one of the finest routes with its long track and matchless views.

Those who want a long distance for exercise purposes cycle on the 26km-long Beşiktaş-Sarıyer route or the shorter Ortaköy-Yeniköy portion of the coastline, which also includes Bebek.

Belgrad Forest

The Belgrad Forest, located to the north of the city, features a rugged terrain and a 20.5-kilometer-long cycle track.

Rumeli Feneri- Kilyos

Rumeli Feneri, the northernmost point of İstanbul, runs along the Black Sea coastline.

An 80-kilometer cycle route which is popular in spring and summer particularly by groups of cyclists.

Historical Peninsula-Balat Shore

The Balat Shore on the Golden Horn is a favorite for cyclists with its small fishing boats and Golden Horn view.

The 17 kilometer cycle route takes in Galata Bridge, Kasımpaşa, Hasköy and Halıcıoğlu Bridge and Balat Shore.

Polonezköy

Polonezköy, on the Asian Side, is among popular vacation and excursion spots and has a 5-kilometer track for cyclists.

The area, which also hosts festivals, is lush with plants and trees.

Useful links

​ www.goturkey.com