Short answer: Sakarya, in the east of the Marmara Region, stands out for its forests, lakes and historic towns. Lake Sapanca, the Acarlar floodplain forest, the Ottoman houses of Taraklı and Adapazarı's ıslama köfte are the stars of the route. Pick up your car at Sabiha Gökçen or Istanbul Airport and explore Sakarya at your own pace; for delivery in Sakarya, contact our customer service and our team will handle the planning.
The geographical indication details for local food are based on the registrations of the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office, and the Acarlar floodplain forest details on announcements by Sakarya Metropolitan Municipality. Check opening status with official sources before your visit.
Sakarya is a city in the east of the Marmara Region that attracts attention with both its natural and cultural riches. With forests, lakes, waterfalls and historic buildings in every shade of green, it is like a treasure waiting to be discovered. With a car rented from SAW Rent A Car, you can explore Sakarya's natural beauty and flavours freely.
Lake Sapanca, one of the most famous natural treasures of Sakarya, is one of the symbols of the city. The forests and walking paths around the lake are a wonderful area for nature lovers to explore. With your rental car you can drive around the lake and enjoy the views; water sports on the lake or a quiet day walking along the shore are also very popular.
Maşukiye, right next to Lake Sapanca, administratively belongs to the Kartepe district of Kocaeli and is easy to add to a Sakarya trip. Set at the foot of the mountains, this small town is famous for its walking routes, ponds and waterfalls, and trying local flavours in its charming cafés is a pleasure. Kartepe, close to the border between Kocaeli and Sakarya, is a mountain where you can ski in winter and enjoy nature walks and views in summer. You can reach Kartepe comfortably in a rented SUV.
The Acarlar floodplain forest (Acarlar Longozu) is one of Sakarya's most important natural areas and one of the largest wetlands in Türkiye. It is ideal for nature walks, birdwatching and photography. Surrounded by long ponds and rich vegetation, it is a must-see for nature lovers. With your rental car you can reach the area easily and spend a day surrounded by nature.
This is a large park very close to the city centre. With walking paths and ponds, it is a place to spend time surrounded by nature, and it also has sports grounds, picnic areas and children's playgrounds, so it appeals to all ages.
Hendek is one of Sakarya's small but pleasant districts. You can walk along the Hendek stream and enjoy nature. Hendek is also known for its highland pastures (yayla); visit the area to see their natural beauty.
Sakarya Archaeology Museum is a perfect stop to discover the city's historical heritage. The museum displays finds from archaeological excavations in the region, so you can get to know Sakarya's past more closely.
Taraklı is one of the oldest settlements in Sakarya province and is famous for its traditional Ottoman houses. With their preserved buildings and narrow streets, the houses of Taraklı form a neighbourhood steeped in history. You can tour Taraklı in your rental car and discover its historic fabric.
Atatürk Boulevard in Adapazarı city centre is a great street for shopping and strolling. Hosting many events throughout the year, the boulevard is also the centre of the city's social life; you can buy local souvenirs and delicacies here.
| Stop | What to do | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Sapanca | Lakeside walks, water sports | Start the day early |
| Maşukiye and Kartepe | Waterfalls, walks, skiing in winter | In winter, check tyres and road conditions |
| Acarlar floodplain forest | Nature walks, birdwatching | Check the opening status in advance |
| Adapazarı | Atatürk Boulevard, ıslama köfte | Plan lunch here |
| Taraklı | Ottoman houses, narrow streets | Go in daylight for photos |
For delivery in Sakarya, contact our customer service; our team will handle the planning. You can book the car on our Sabiha Gökçen Airport car rental or Istanbul Airport car rental pages, and if you are coming from the Bursa side, look at the Bursa Airport car rental option.
On the way, motorway and bridge tolls are deducted from the car's HGS; under art. 4.10 of the Rental Conditions these fees are paid by the renter. For current rates, see our article on bridge and motorway tolls for 2026.
Sakarya awaits you with its nature, history and cultural riches. Exploring Sakarya with SAW Rent A Car, you can enjoy the freedom to roam. From Lake Sapanca to Maşukiye and from Serdivan Nature Park to the Acarlar floodplain forest, you can visit every spot at ease, taste the local flavours and fully enjoy discovering Sakarya's unique nature.
Lake Sapanca, the Acarlar floodplain forest, the Ottoman houses of Taraklı, Serdivan Nature Park, the Hendek highlands and Sakarya Archaeology Museum stand out. Maşukiye and Kartepe, right next to Sapanca, are easy to add to the route.
No. Although Maşukiye is very close to Lake Sapanca, it administratively belongs to the Kartepe district of Kocaeli.
Adapazarı ıslama köfte is the city's most famous dish. Cornbread and cızlak, Adapazarı pumpkin dessert and Sakarya Abkhaz cheese are also local flavours worth trying.
You can pick up the car at Sabiha Gökçen or Istanbul Airport and drive to Sakarya by road. For delivery in Sakarya, contact our customer service; our team will handle the planning.
An economy car is enough for the city and the lake area. If you are going up Kartepe in winter or travelling with a large family, an SUV with a large boot is more comfortable.
You can book online or reach our customer service by WhatsApp or phone on 0850 304 94 30.
