Şile is located on the Asian side of Istanbul along the shores of the Black Sea, and it is considered one of the most beautiful coastal towns that combines lush nature with rich history. Its origins date back to the ancient Greek era, and throughout history it was known by several names such as Asheil, Artina, and Kyllo. Şile is home to historical caves that were used as dwellings in ancient times, and due to its rugged mountainous landscape and dense forests, access to the area in the past was only possible by sea.
Today, Şile has become one of the best relaxation destinations near Istanbul thanks to its breathtaking nature and historical and cultural landmarks. Through the Şile and Ağva tours we organize, you can visit the region’s most famous attractions, such as the historic Şile Lighthouse, built by the French between 1858 and 1859 under the order of Sultan Abdülaziz, and Şile Castle, which was constructed by the Genoese and later used by the Ottomans.
Şile and Ağva Private Tour from Istanbul visiting points
Hidden Lake
Hidden Lake is considered one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Şile. It is located about eight kilometers from the town center, within the borders of Kaman Dere village. This artificial lake is famous for its stunning scenery and the restaurants surrounding it, where you can enjoy breakfast by the water while relaxing in the peaceful atmosphere and fresh air. It is a perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Mountain Safari Tour
Experience the thrill of adventure with safari tours in the mountains of Şile using quad bikes specially designed for rugged terrain. The tour covers a distance of 14 kilometers through forests and lasts between 45 and 60 minutes, accompanied by experienced guides.
You will enjoy an exciting journey surrounded by nature in different seasonal atmospheres, whether rainy or snowy, while maintaining the highest safety standards.
These tours have become one of the most popular outdoor activities in recent years, especially for nature and adventure lovers.
Göksu River Boat Tour
Göksu River is considered one of the most famous rivers in Şile, with hotels and cafés lining its banks. Although it does not flow directly into the sea, it is one of the favorite spots for small boat trips.
River tours are organized along the Göksu and Çanak rivers using boats that accommodate up to ten people. The tour usually lasts around forty minutes, offering visitors a peaceful and scenic experience surrounded by nature.
Ağva Beach
A visit to Şile would not be complete without stopping by Ağva Beach, one of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Türkiye. The natural sandy beach stretches for 2.5 kilometers with a width of 50 meters, making it a perfect place to relax under the sun during hot summer days.
The beach is located in the center of Ağva and close to public services. It is clean, well maintained, and open to visitors free of charge.
Barbecues and samovars are not allowed in order to preserve the cleanliness of the area, making it one of the favorite beaches for families. Outside the summer season, the area is known for its peaceful and relaxing atmosphere away from crowds.
Historic Lighthouse
Şile Lighthouse is considered one of the most important lighthouses on the Black Sea coast, attracting thousands of local and international visitors who come to enjoy its unique beauty, especially at sunset when the light reflects beautifully on the sea and the surrounding rocky cliffs.
The lighthouse was built during the reign of Sultan Abdülaziz between 1858 and 1859 during the Crimean War, and it was used to monitor both the Black Sea and the Bosphorus Strait at the same time. More than 150 years after its construction, the lighthouse is still operating today.
The lighthouse is located 60 meters above sea level, while its tower stands 19 meters high. Its light reaches a range of up to 35 nautical miles. The structure was designed by Turkish engineers, while its metal components and optical system were manufactured in Paris. In 1968, its lighting system was converted from gas to electricity.
The lighthouse is located only about one kilometer from the center of Şile and around 75 kilometers from Istanbul, and it can easily be reached on foot from the town center.
End of the Tour
After a day full of adventures and breathtaking scenery among the peaceful forests of Şile and the golden shores of Ağva, our journey comes to an end, leaving unforgettable memories of nature, tranquility, and authentic Turkish beauty.
You will return with beautiful photos, a satisfied smile, and a sense of serenity after spending a complete day surrounded by mountains, lakes, and rivers.
Until we meet again on another journey, we hope the memories of Şile and Ağva will always stay with you and remind you of the magic of the Black Sea and the warmth of nature in the most beautiful outskirts of Istanbul.
Tour types with prices
The price of the trip per person within a group is 25 USD.
What the tour includes:
- Lunch
- All transportation
- A tour guide
The price of the tour in a Mercedes Vito VIP vehicle is 190 USD.
What the tour includes:
- All transfers in a private Mercedes Vito
- An English-speaking driver
