begüm One of the weekend destinations, Sapanca travel is perfect whether you want to take a walk by the lake or enjoy a breakfast surrounded by nature… Sapanca is beautiful in every season. In this guide, you can find places to visit in Sapanca, breakfast spots, camping areas, the Sapanca cable car, and transportation information.
Where is Sapanca and How to Get There?
Let me tell you about Sapanca; it’s the jewel of Sakarya, located in the Marmara Region, and very close to both Istanbul and Ankara. So, it’s an ideal place for a weekend getaway. With its lake, nature, and peaceful atmosphere, it truly refreshes you and takes away the stress of city life.
By Car
If you’re coming from Istanbul, you can easily reach Sapanca via the TEM Motorway. It takes about 1.5–2 hours, depending on traffic. Early mornings or late afternoons are usually quieter.
If you’re coming from Ankara, it will take around 3.5–4 hours. The scenery along the way is wonderful, especially as you approach Sakarya, with all the greenery lifting your spirits. You can click here to rent a car.
By Train
I think travelling by high-speed train is also a real pleasure. From Istanbul, it takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to reach Sapanca. From Ankara, it’s around 3.5 hours. From the train station, you can walk to the lakeside or take a short taxi ride to the centre. You can click here to buy tickets.
By Bus or Minibus
You can also get to Sapanca by bus or minibus. There are direct services from Istanbul, usually using the E-5 and TEM routes. If you’re going for a day trip, this is a practical option. You can click here to buy tickets.
Getting Around Sapanca
Within Sapanca, there are bus and minibus services, but they only cover certain areas. For other places, you can use a taxi.
Places to Visit and Attractions in Sapanca
- 1Sapanca Lake and Hiking Trail
- 2Ormanya Wildlife Park
- 3Maşukiye Waterfall
- 4Sapanca Kırkpınar Neighborhood
- 5Sapanca Cable Car
- 6Sakarya Provincial Forest Park
- 7Lulus Patisserie
- 8Sunday
- 9Uğurlu Dükkan
- 10Won Coffee
- 11Pecka Pizza
- 12Gölevi Resort
- 13Voda Sapanca
- 14Sasa Sapanca
- 15Nada Sapanca
Click here to see the map of Sapanca Places to Visit.
Places to Visit in Sapanca
Sapanca Lake and Hiking Trail
When you think of Sapanca, the first thing that comes to mind is, of course, the lake! You can take a walk along the shore, go cycling, or simply relax and enjoy the view. Especially in the early morning, the quiet of the lake and the peace of nature are truly enchanting. There’s a walking path about 8 km long, so you can enjoy both exercise and the scenery at the same time.
Ormanya Nature Park
Ormanya is a true nature paradise. You can take a walk, see different animal species, and enjoy a day at the picnic areas. It’s a great choice both for families with children and for those who want a day surrounded by nature.
Maşukiye Waterfall
This spot is a favourite for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. You can find peace in the sound of the waterfall and sip your coffee in the small cafés nearby. Especially in the summer, it’s an ideal place to cool off and be close to nature.
Sapanca Kırkpınar Neighbourhood
Kırkpınar is one of Sapanca’s most beautiful neighbourhoods. With its traditional houses, charming streets, and surrounding green areas, it’s a peaceful corner. Many lovely cafés are located here; I really like it and it’s definitely worth a visit.
Sapanca Cable Car Experience
The cable car line starts from Kırkpınar and extends to the slopes of Kartepe, offering stunning lake views. Watching Sapanca from above, feeling at one with nature, and taking beautiful photos make it a fantastic experience. As of 2025, the round-trip ticket price is 450 TL for adults and 300 TL for students. Discounts are available for those aged 65 and over with ID.
Sakarya Provincial Forest Park
This is perfect for anyone wanting to be close to nature. With walking trails, picnic areas, and a fresh, oxygen-rich atmosphere, it’s ideal for a short break. Especially on weekends, it’s a popular spot for a nature getaway.
Breakfast Spots in Sapanca
Lulus Patisserie
If you want a sweet break in Sapanca, Lulus Patisserie is the perfect stop. With its sourdough and refined sugar-free products, the menu is both delicious and guilt-free. The desserts are fresh and filling, with portions ideal for one person. Prices are very reasonable, and the staff are attentive.
In short, if you find yourself in Sapanca, don’t leave without visiting Lulus — everything on the menu is so tempting you’ll be thinking, “Shall I have a little more?” Click here to view on Tripadvisor!
Sunday
Sunday Sapanca is a place where you can start your day nicely with its simple yet carefully prepared breakfast. The traditional spread breakfast, priced at around 450 TL per person, is very satisfying. From cheeses and jams to kuymak and fried dough, everything is fresh and tasty. The atmosphere is modest but friendly; staff are cheerful, and the setting is peaceful. If you’re looking for “a quality breakfast away from the noise,” Sunday is the place to go.
Uğurlu Dükkan
Uğurlu Dükkan is a small concept store in Sapanca that functions both as a café and a shop for decorative items. Loved by visitors for years, its biggest strength is definitely the desserts. The milk-based jam cheesecake, in particular, is very popular. While the breakfast isn’t highly recommended, it’s a must-visit for the desserts alone. Prices are a bit high, but the taste and ambience make up for it. Anyone with a sweet tooth should add this spot to their list. Click here to view on Tripadvisor!
Sapanca Cafés and Evening Leisure
Pecka Pizza
Pecka Pizza is a small, laid-back family-run place in Sapanca that wins you over with its warmth straight away. The wood-fired pizzas are both light and delicious, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The pizzas on the menu have a character very different from typical chain pizzas. Prices are quite reasonable for the location. The owners are friendly and really know their craft. If you’re looking for honest flavours without artificial additives, Pecka Pizza is a must-visit in Sapanca.
Gölevi Resort
Gölevi Resort is one of the best places to enjoy views of Lake Sapanca. It offers both accommodation and a restaurant. It’s a delightful spot for breakfast or dinner. With its quiet, peaceful setting and lakeside views, it’s especially ideal for those wanting to relax. Click here to view on Tripadvisor!
Voda Sapanca
Voda Sapanca is a spot that stands out with its fantastic lakeside location and carefully designed décor. The atmosphere and view are truly enjoyable, making it ideal for a relaxing day. The food is average in terms of taste, but the beauty of the surroundings more than makes up for it. Prices are a bit high, but overall it’s a place you’ll be satisfied with. Click here to view on Tripadvisor!
Sasa Sapanca
Sasa Sapanca stands out with its lakeside location and stunning views. The setting is really pleasant, and the ambiance is excellent. However, prices are high, and extra charges for items like tea or water—which are often free elsewhere—can leave a slightly negative impression. The food is average in taste, so Sasa Sapanca is mainly recommended for its view and atmosphere. Click here to view on Tripadvisor!
Nada Sapanca
Nada Sapanca is one of the popular spots in Sapanca. The view is truly beautiful, and their cocktails are highly appreciated. In the evening, it turns into a lively place, which can make it quite busy. If you want to enjoy both the scenery and a pleasant drink, you can add Nada Sapanca to your list.
Won Coffe
Won Coffee is a place that stands out with its minimal and stylish décor. The ice creams are not only delicious but also served in just the right portion, and the drinks are always satisfying. The atmosphere and décor of the café are a real treat; every corner is carefully designed and perfect for photos. It’s an ideal stop for those who want to enjoy a sweet treat or a drink in a calm and relaxing environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Sapanca cable car?
The cable car line starts from the Kırkpınar neighborhood and extends to the foothills of Kartepe, offering panoramic views of the lake.
How many kilometers between Istanbul and Sapanca?
It is approximately 135 km and takes approximately 1.5 hours by car.
How many kilometers between Ankara and Sapanca?
It is approximately 320 km and takes 3.5–4 hours by car.
Why is Sapanca famous?
Sapanca is famous for its lake views, natural beauty, and proximity to city life. It’s a popular destination for weekend getaways, lakeside breakfasts, and bungalow hotels.
How much does the Sapanca cable car cost?
As of 2025, the round-trip Sapanca cable car ticket price is 450 TL, and 300 TL for students. Discounts are available for those aged 65 and over with identification.
How to get to Sapanca by high-speed train?
You can easily reach Sapanca by TCDD High-Speed Train (YHT). High-speed trains departing from Istanbul (Pendik, Söğütlüçeşme, or Halkalı) and Ankara also stop at Sapanca.
How many hours does it take from Istanbul to Sapanca?
You can reach Sapanca from Istanbul by car in approximately 2–2.5 hours.
Click for the Sakarya Travel Guide!
This concludes our Sapanca Travel Guide article. See you in the next article.
Follow me on Instagram!
https://www.instagram.com/begumaaktas
