Small and Boutique Hotels in Catalca

Çatalca, which is a city established in the west of Istanbul, Turkey's largest city, is the largest district of Istanbul in terms of area. The history of Çatalca dates back to 2000 BC.Çatalca district of Istanbul is a very logical alternative for those who want to have a sea holiday on the weekend. Especially Çilingoz is a beauty with a fascinating nature where sea and forest coexist.The district, which was taken by Fatih with the conquest of Istanbul, was named ‘Çetince’. The name Çetince has undergone some changes until today and has become ‘Çatalca’. Fatih Sultan Mehmet said, ‘I entrusted this city to God’ for Çatalca, which is an important central district for Istanbul. The economy of Çatalca is largely based on industry and animal husbandry. Tourists coming to Çatalca are mostly visiting for business purposes. However, Çatalca is a district where those who are tired of the crowds of Istanbul can have a weekend getaway without travelling far from Istanbul. Çatalca, a place where you can relax without travelling too far from Istanbul, has boutique and small hotels for this purpose. Çatalca hotels are open all year round. Çatalca boutique hotels, which host their visitors in a lush green garden, intertwined with nature and friendly service quality, will be enough to take you away from the chaos of the city. You can browse our website to learn about Çatalca hotels and reasonable price options.

When and Why You Should Visit Çatalca?

Best Time to Visit: Çatalca can be visited year-round, but the most ideal times are in spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is mild, perfect for outdoor activities and nature walks. The summer months also attract visitors due to its proximity to the beaches.

Why Visit Çatalca?

Natural Beauty: Çatalca is one of Istanbul's most nature-connected districts, offering a peaceful escape with forests, lakes, and picnic areas.

History and Culture: The area offers cultural richness with historical sites and a glimpse into traditional village life.

Beach Enjoyment: In the summer, you can enjoy the beaches and the sea.

Local Flavors: Çatalca is known for its natural products and local delicacies, giving you a taste of authentic regional flavors.

Çatalca's Weather by Seasons

Spring (March-May): Temperatures range between 10-20°C. The weather is generally cool and sunny, making it ideal for nature walks and outdoor activities.

Summer (June-August): Temperatures range from 25-35°C. Çatalca’s coastal areas become a popular spot for a refreshing getaway during these months.

Autumn (September-November): The average temperature is between 15-25°C, offering a peaceful atmosphere and a beautiful display of nature’s colors.

Winter (December-February): Temperatures generally range from 0-10°C. The weather is cold and sometimes rainy, but the winter scenery makes for an enjoyable visit.

Çatalca's Seasonal Crowds

High Season: Summer months (June-August) and weekends during spring are the busiest times. This is when the beaches and picnic areas attract the most visitors.

Low Season: Winter months are the quietest. Ideal for those who prefer a more peaceful and intimate experience with nature.

Mid-Season: Spring and autumn strike a balance with pleasant weather and moderate visitor numbers.

Things to Do in Çatalca

Nature Walks: Enjoy pleasant trails around Çilingoz Nature Park and Durusu Lake.

Camping and Picnicking: Explore the forests and enjoy camping or picnicking in one of the many green areas.

Historical Sites: Visit the Inceğiz Caves and Byzantine ruins for a touch of history.

Beaches and Sea: Take a dip in the sea at Çilingoz Beach or other nearby coastal areas.

Cycling Tours: The village roads and nature trails are perfect for cycling enthusiasts.

Local Product Shopping: Shop for fresh produce and organic products at local markets and farms.

Photography: Capture the scenic beauty of the forests, lakes, and historical sites.

Taste Local Dishes: Experience organic and fresh flavors at local restaurants.

Places to Visit and See in Çatalca

Çilingoz Nature Park: Ideal for those looking to spend a day surrounded by nature. You can camp, go for a hike, or fish at the lake.

Durusu Lake: A perfect spot for photographers. You can take a walk around the lake or enjoy your time at the picnic areas.

Inceğiz Caves: These caves are fascinating for those interested in exploring natural wonders. The unique structures and surroundings make them an attractive spot for photography.

Çatalca Castle: This historic castle, from the Ottoman period, is an important destination for those interested in exploring the area’s history.

Independence War Monument: This monument symbolizes the historical significance of Çatalca and can be visited during tours of the region.

Çatalca Town Center: A peaceful area where you can walk, enjoy traditional Turkish tea, and explore local shops.

Shopping Recommendations in Çatalca, What to Buy and Where

Local Products: You can buy organic products, olive oil, honey, and regional cheeses from the village markets in Çatalca.

Handmade Souvenirs: Çatalca is famous for handmade ceramics, wooden carvings, and woven goods that make great souvenirs.

Natural Products: You can purchase fresh fruits and vegetables grown in Çatalca's villages, as well as other organic products.

Traditional Bread and Sweets: Local breads and traditional desserts made in Çatalca are popular among visitors.

Entertainment Venues, Cafes, and Bars in Çatalca

Çatalca Garden Café: Offering a nature-filled atmosphere, this café is ideal for breakfast or tea time.

Village Coffeehouse: A perfect place to enjoy traditional Turkish coffee and relax in a calm setting.

Beach Bars: In the summer, bars set up along Çatalca's coastal areas are popular for evening drinks with a view of the Bosphorus.

Entertainment Venues: Çatalca’s nightlife is quieter compared to Istanbul, blending with nature. Some venues offer live music or open-air events during the summer.

Restaurant Recommendations in Çatalca, What to Eat and Where

Yelken Restaurant: A great place for seafood lovers, offering fresh fish like sea bass and gilthead, as well as various mezes. It also provides a lovely dining experience with a lake view.

Forest House Restaurant: Located in the natural surroundings of Çatalca, this restaurant offers traditional Turkish dishes such as kebabs, especially lamb tandır, and olive oil dishes.

Balkan Restaurant: Famous for its home-style Turkish cooking, this restaurant serves stews and pilaf with beans. Traditional desserts like sütlaç (rice pudding) are also available.

Beylik Restaurant: Ideal for tasting local flavors, such as lamb tandır, kebabs, and other regional specialties.

Village Table: A perfect spot for a traditional breakfast, offering fresh bread, organic cheeses, honey, and olives.

History of Çatalca

Çatalca, located to the west of Istanbul, has a long and rich history. The area was an important settlement during the Roman Empire and gained strategic significance during the Ottoman period. The name "Çatalca" is derived from the word "çatal" (fork) due to the region's geographical features. The area boasts ruins from the Byzantine era, Ottoman bridges, and caravanserais, providing a deep historical wealth. In addition, Çatalca was an important agricultural hub during the Republican era. Today, it offers a blend of a nature-filled lifestyle and fascinating historical landmarks.

What is Çatalca Famous For?

Natural Beauty: Çatalca is famous for its natural landscapes, including lakes, forests, and picnic areas. Durusu Lake and Çilingoz Nature Park are popular among nature lovers.

Olive Oil and Organic Products: Çatalca is known for its organic products, especially olive oil and natural honey, which are essential parts of the region’s culinary culture.

Agriculture and Livestock: Agriculture and livestock are key aspects of Çatalca's economy, making fresh and organic local products very popular.

Historic Çatalca Castle and Caves: Çatalca is also known for its historical sites, including the Ottoman-era Çatalca Castle and the ancient Inceğiz Caves, which represent the region’s historical richness.

Where to Swim in Çatalca, Beach Recommendations

Çatalca is known for its proximity to the sea, but there aren't large beaches within the district itself. However, nearby areas offer good options for swimming:

Şile Beaches: Located about 1.5 hours away from Çatalca, Şile is known for its clean waters and beautiful beaches. Though it can be crowded in the summer, it remains a popular choice with its wide beach and serene atmosphere.

Kilyos Beaches: About an hour’s drive from Çatalca, Kilyos is one of the beautiful beaches on Istanbul’s Black Sea coast, equipped with services like sunbeds and umbrellas.

Büyükçekmece Beach: A closer option to Çatalca, Büyükçekmece Beach offers a calm and clean sea, ideal for summer visits. The beach is equipped with various social amenities.

Florya Beach: Located near Sirkeci, Florya Beach is an excellent spot for families, offering a peaceful environment to enjoy the sea.

Best Things to Do in Çatalca

Nature Walks and Picnics: Çatalca is renowned for its natural beauty. You can take a walk around Durusu Lake or camp in Çilingoz Nature Park.

Lake Tour: Visit Durusu Lake for fishing or enjoy a boat tour. The surrounding nature trails are also popular.

Visit Çatalca Castle: The historical Çatalca Castle offers a glimpse into the region’s past. The surrounding area is also great for photography.

Visit Local Markets: Explore local markets selling organic products and handmade souvenirs. You’ll find olive oil, honey, and fresh vegetables.Try Street Food: Tasting street food in Çatalca is a great experience. Don't miss out on simit (Turkish sesame bread), village bread, and traditional Turkish sweets.

Dining with a Lake View: Enjoy a meal at a restaurant with a lake view, offering Turkish dishes in a natural setting.

Explore Historical Sites: Discover places like the Inceğiz Caves and historical bridges to learn more about the area’s history.