Sile & Agva Black Sea Coast Day Trip

Overview

Two quiet towns on Istanbul's Black Sea coast: Sile's lighthouse and sandy beach, a river boat ride at Agva and a fish lunch in the garden of a wooden hotel.

Sile is a fishing town on the Black Sea, an hour and a half from central Istanbul. You are collected at 08:30 and reach Sile at 10:00 via the forested roads of the Asian side. First stop is the Sile Lighthouse of 1859, the largest in Türkiye, and the beach view from the castle rocks. Half an hour is given in the market for the famous Sile cloth (hand-woven cotton summer garments), affordable and light gifts for families.

Midday is at Agva: this small town between the Goksu and Yesilcay rivers is known for its wooden boutique hotels on the riverbank. A 45-minute river boat ride is followed by a halal lunch of grilled fish or chicken in a garden (included). In the afternoon you see the rocky scenery of Kilimli Bay and, for those who wish, swim at Agva beach (June–September, lifeguarded area). There are swings and ducks by the river for children.

You leave at 17:00 and reach your hotel at about 19:00. The group tour is 70 USD per person (maximum 14 guests); for families of up to six, a private vehicle and guide cost 250 USD. We recommend this tour for families who want a calm day away from the crowds on their third or fourth day in Istanbul.