Nestled on the Black Sea coast in the Sarıyer district of Istanbul, Kilyos – also known as Kumkoy – is one of the city’s most popular seaside destinations. Located approximately 30–35 kilometres north of central Istanbul, Kilyos offers a refreshing escape with its long sandy beaches, dramatic coastline, historic castle, protected sand dunes, and lush forests.
Unlike the bustling shores of the Bosphorus, Kilyos combines the charm of a traditional coastal village with modern beach clubs, nature reserves, and outdoor recreation, making it a favourite destination for both locals and visitors seeking sun, sea, and fresh air.
Kilyos lies where the forests of northern Istanbul meet the Black Sea, creating a spectacular landscape of rolling hills, sandy beaches, and coastal dunes.
Its strategic position has made it an important settlement since ancient times, while today it is best known as Istanbul’s premier summer beach destination.
Although its permanent population is relatively small, the village welcomes thousands of visitors during the summer months, when its beaches, hotels, restaurants, and beach clubs come alive.
History
The history of Kilyos stretches back many centuries, thanks to its strategic location guarding the northern entrance to the Bosphorus.
The settlement is believed to have existed since antiquity, although its most prominent historical monument is the Kilyos Castle, originally constructed by the Genoese during the Middle Ages. Like several other Genoese fortifications around the Black Sea and Bosphorus, the castle played a vital role in protecting maritime trade routes.
Following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople, the fortress continued to serve defensive purposes. During the reign of Sultan Mahmud II (1808–1839), the castle underwent significant restoration and strengthening.
One of its most remarkable features is the large rainwater collection system, which channelled water into underground cisterns to provide a reliable supply during periods of siege. Parts of this sophisticated hydraulic system remain visible today.
The fortress also preserves:
- Stone defensive walls
- Guard chambers
- Historic gateways
- Underground cisterns
- Watchtowers overlooking the Black Sea
Several artillery pieces from the late Ottoman period, including Krupp steel cannons manufactured in Germany during the 19th century, remain on display within the castle grounds.
Near the entrance stands a magnificent historic plane tree, believed to have been planted during the 15th century following the Ottoman capture of the fortress. Measuring approximately 26 metres in height, it remains one of Kilyos’ oldest living landmarks.
Additional historic structures include former military buildings, piers, fountains, bridges, and coastal facilities that played important roles in protecting the Bosphorus during the late Ottoman period and the First World War.
Geography
Kilyos occupies one of Istanbul’s most beautiful coastal landscapes.
Its natural environment includes:
- Wide sandy beaches
- Rolling coastal dunes
- Pine forests
- Rocky headlands
- Black Sea cliffs
- Coastal wetlands
The combination of sea, forests, and open landscapes gives Kilyos a distinctly different atmosphere from central Istanbul.
The Famous Kilyos Sand Dunes
One of Kilyos’ greatest natural treasures is its extensive coastal dune system, from which the alternative name Kumköy (“Sand Village”) is derived.
These dunes are considered among the most valuable and best-preserved dune ecosystems along Turkey’s Black Sea coast.
The area is recognised for:
- Exceptional biodiversity
- Rare coastal vegetation
- Endemic plant species
- Protected habitats
- Scientific research
Botanical studies conducted here for more than a century have identified numerous rare plant species, several of which are protected under international conservation agreements.
Because of their ecological importance, large sections of the dunes are carefully managed to preserve their fragile environment.
Top Attractions
Kilyos Castle
Overlooking the Black Sea, the restored Genoese fortress remains the village’s most important historical landmark.
Visitors can admire:
- Medieval walls
- Historic towers
- Underground cisterns
- Ottoman artillery
- Panoramic sea views
Kilyos Beaches
Kilyos is famous for its long stretches of golden sand, making it one of Istanbul’s most popular seaside destinations.
Popular beaches include both public and private sections offering:
- Swimming
- Sunbathing
- Beach volleyball
- Surfing
- Paddleboarding
- Beach cafés
- Live music during summer
Black Sea Coastline
The rugged coastline provides spectacular scenery throughout the year, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Walking along the shore offers opportunities for photography, birdwatching, and enjoying the fresh sea air.
Belgrad Forest
Only a short drive inland, Belgrad Forest offers hiking trails, picnic areas, cycling routes, and historic Ottoman reservoirs, making it an excellent complement to a beach holiday.
Scenic Viewpoints
The hills surrounding Kilyos provide panoramic views across the Black Sea and the surrounding forests, particularly from the elevated hotel district overlooking the village.
Things to Do
Kilyos offers activities throughout the year.
Popular experiences include:
- Relaxing on the sandy beaches
- Swimming in the Black Sea
- Surfing and windsurfing
- Visiting Kilyos Castle
- Hiking through nearby forests
- Exploring the coastal dunes
- Watching spectacular sunsets
- Cycling along scenic coastal roads
- Enjoying beach festivals and summer concerts
- Photographing the dramatic coastline
During the summer months, Kilyos also hosts music festivals, sporting events, and beach parties.
Food and Drink
As a traditional fishing village, Kilyos is renowned for its seafood.
Local favourites include:
- Fresh grilled fish
- Black Sea anchovies
- Calamari
- Mussels
- Seafood meze
- Charcoal-grilled kebabs
- Turkish breakfast
- Homemade desserts
- Turkish tea served by the sea
Several countryside restaurants between Bahçeköy and Kilyos also specialise in grilled meats and traditional Turkish cuisine.
Shopping
Although relatively small, Kilyos offers everything visitors need for a beach holiday.
The village centre includes:
- Grocery stores
- Bakeries
- Pharmacies
- Beachwear shops
- Convenience stores
- Souvenir shops
- Cafés
- Seasonal boutiques
Larger shopping centres are available in nearby Sarıyer and Maslak.
Accommodation
Visitors can choose from a variety of accommodation options, including:
- Beachfront hotels
- Boutique hotels
- Guesthouses
- Motels
- Holiday apartments
- Beach resorts
- Family pensions
Many hotels occupy elevated hillsides, providing impressive panoramic views over the Black Sea.
Climate
Kilyos experiences a humid Black Sea climate, which differs slightly from central Istanbul.
Spring (March–May): Mild temperatures with blooming coastal vegetation.
Summer (June–August): Warm and sunny, ideal for swimming and beach activities.
Autumn (September–November): Pleasant weather with fewer crowds and dramatic coastal scenery.
Winter (December–February): Cool, windy, and occasionally stormy, offering a completely different but equally beautiful coastal atmosphere.
Getting There
Kilyos is easily accessible from central Istanbul.
By car:
- Drive toward Maslak.
- Continue via Bahçeköy or Zekeriyaköy.
- The scenic forest route through Belgrad Forest is particularly enjoyable, passing historic aqueducts, reservoirs, and woodland landscapes before reaching the coast.
Public transportation:
- Regular municipal buses operate between central Istanbul, Sarıyer, and Kilyos.
- Taxi and ride-hailing services are also readily available.
The journey from Taksim Square typically takes around 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic.
Travel Tips
- Visit on weekdays to avoid the busiest summer crowds.
- Arrive early during weekends, especially in July and August.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat, as shade is limited on many beaches.
- Explore both the castle and the protected sand dunes for a richer experience beyond the beach.
- Combine your visit with Belgrad Forest or Bahçeköy for a full day of nature and history.
- The Black Sea can have strong waves and currents, so always follow local safety flags and lifeguard instructions when swimming.
Why Visit Kilyos?
Kilyos offers a refreshing contrast to Istanbul’s historic centre, combining beautiful Black Sea beaches, medieval history, protected natural landscapes, and peaceful forest surroundings. Whether you’re relaxing on its golden sands, exploring the Genoese castle, hiking through nearby Belgrad Forest, or enjoying freshly caught seafood with panoramic sea views, Kilyos provides one of the city’s finest coastal escapes. Just a short drive from central Istanbul, it is the perfect destination for a day trip or a relaxing weekend by the sea.