Kocaeli

Discover the cities of Türkiye

Overview

Where to go in Kocaeli?

A
Serindere Canyon

Serindere Canyon, which has 6 waterfalls between 10 and 20 meters in height, is the most challenging canyon of Kocaeli and the region. It is the best place to trek in Turkiye. You can find the city tours to go to the canyon with new people who like to trek. The water is really cold so wrap up!

B
Pink Rocks - Kefken

Pink Rocks is one of the must-see places with its different geological structures. In addition to the presence of prehistoric finds, it has been used as a quarry since Antiquity. Pink rocks, which are soft in water, become hard after they are removed. Due to these features, they were cut into rectangles during the Ottoman Period and transported to Istanbul by sea, and used in architecture. You will love the view with your drone!Pink Rocks is one of the must-see places with its different geological structures. In addition to the presence of prehistoric finds, it has been used as a quarry since Antiquity. Pink rocks, which are soft in water, become hard after they are removed. Due to these features, they were cut into rectangles during the Ottoman Period and transported to Istanbul by sea, and used in architecture. You will love the view with your drone!

C
Ballikaya Nature Park

Ballikaya Nature Park is only an hour's drive from Istanbul province. That is why citizens prefer to go on weekends just for adventure. The hiking routes in Ballikayalar are good for novice trekkers who haven't done much training because they allow for non compelling hikes. Along the trekking paths, you will come across little waterfalls and walk over the small lakes made by these waterfalls.

D
Glass Terrace in Kocaeli (Ayrı Gezegen Cam Teras)

It has a height of about 185 meters. You can see Sapanca Lake with forest from the top. Ayrı Gezegen Glass Terrace has a coffee shop with a view. Also, it has an adventure park near the Glass Terrace. You can also zipline and shooting range. Do not forget to go to gift shops!

E
Kerpe Rocks

The natural beauty of the Kerpe Rocks will fascinate you. It is possible to reach Kerpe by passing through pine forests after Kandıra. The cliffs, formed by the effect of waves and wind, processed the Kerpe Kartal Rocks like an architect. Kerpe beach is close to Kerpe Rocks if you have time you can go to Kerpe beach to have fun!

F
Sardala Bay

Sardala Bay is must see place in Kocaeli province. You have to add here to your travel list! You should go up to see the view from the top. It has 2 (koy)s and one big rock to divide these two beaches. You can stay in your van on the big rock, and you can see both beaches from the middle.

What to eat in Kocaeli?

Travelers love to try traditional foods. You have to taste every food in every country. We have some advice that you have to try in Kocaeli Province:

Pismaniye

Do you remember the tradition of Turkish people about Pismaniye from our Ankara page? It is the gift that you bring from the road to home. Kocaeli is the owner of Pismaniye.

Stuffed Turkey

Stuffed turkey is one of the indispensable dishes of New Year's Eve. Stuffed turkey is mostly made on special occasions in Kocaeli province. This dish, which is prepared with stuffed rice, contains ingredients such as peeled and roasted chestnuts, currants, and turkey liver. It is possible to taste this wonderful taste in Izmit.

Cizlama

Cizlama is one of the delicacies that you can eat at any time of the day. Unlike pancakes or pouring, yeast is put into it. It is made by cooking on sheet metal in many villages of Kocaeli.

Near Places to visit in Kocaeli

Duzce

Duzce is one and a half hours from Kocaeli province. Duzce has beaches, waterfalls,

and natural parks.

Istanbul

Istanbul is close to Kocaeli. It takes one and a half hours by car. Istanbul is the largest city in Turkiye. You may find Istanbul tours from Kocaeli. You can visit Istanbul page for more Information about Istanbul.

Activities and sports in Kocaeli

Kartepe

There are many more activities to do in Kartepe, which dazzles with its natural beauty. Hiking, paragliding, horse riding, paintball, bird watching, and mountain biking are just some of them. Besides that, Kartepe is known as a place to ski and snowboard in winter. Kartepe is close to Istanbul province. That is why people in Istanbul prefer to go to Kartepe in winter to ski and snowboard. You can also find tours from the many cities to go to Kartepe.

Sapanca

Sapanca is very popular for relaxing and resting your head and is the best location for far away from crowded cities. Sapanca bungalows are very popular lately. Bungalows have different concepts in Sapanca!

Sarisu

Where you can canoe in Turkiye? Sarısu is the best location for you to canoe. You will love the nature and peaceful atmosphere with the bird's voice here. At the end of the parkour, you will reach the sea!

Sukay Park

Have you ever heard of water skateboarding? Here is a chance for you to do a water skateboard! Also, there is a small island, a pond, a water park for children, walking areas, a wedding hall, a restaurant, a cafe, and a water-skate clothing shop.

Plus, with GetYourGuide, you can make the most of your Kocaeli adventure by booking exciting tours and local experiences guided by experts.

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