Belgrad Forest

Overview

Belgrad Forest (Belgrad Ormanı) is a 5,500-hectare expanse of oak, beech and chestnut woodland north of Istanbul, threaded with jogging trails, Ottoman aqueducts and picnic clearings—a green escape from the megacity.

Highlights

• Running trails: Well-signposted loops of 5, 7 and 12 km, popular with weekend runners.
• Ottoman aqueducts: Several stone acqueduct bridges, built to supply Constantinople's water, stand among the trees.
• Wildlife: Woodpeckers, wild boar and red foxes inhabit the forest.

History

Named after Serbian prisoners settled here by Sultan Süleyman, the forest served as Constantinople's main watershed for centuries. Ottoman engineers built elaborate dams and aqueducts to channel its streams to the city.

Visitor Tips

• Tip: Bring your own water and snacks—facilities inside the forest are limited.
• Tip: Best reached by car or taxi; public transport options are infrequent.
• Duration: 2–4 hours.