Bordered by the Black Sea to the north and the Aegean Sea to the south, Sea Of Marmara occupies an enormous 11,350-square-kilometre footprint. The sea divides the Asian and European regions of Turkey and has shaped the country’s unique history, culture and traditions over the centuries.
Istanbul is set on the north-eastern tip of the Sea Of Marmara and is an intoxicating mix of ancient and contemporary culture. Marvel at the magnificent Ottoman-era Blue Mosque, stroll around the trendy Besiktas neighbourhood and admire contemporary masterpieces at the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art.
Just 20 kilometres offshore, Princes' Islands feel worlds away from the bustling streets of Istanbul. Popular with day-trippers and overnight holidaymakers, the islands will charm you with their beautiful beaches and lush pine forests. Explore the islands by bike or hitch a ride on a horse-drawn carriage. The Gallipoli Peninsula, one of the most evocative World War I military sites in Europe, is located at the southern end of the Sea Of Marmara.
Getting there
Sea Of Marmara is located in Turkey and is accessed by the Bosporus Strait in the north and the Dardanelles Straits in the south. Ferries operate across the Sea of Marmara, with some of the most popular routes including Istanbul to Derince and Gelibolu to Cardak.