The Kennedy Avenue seaside promenade runs along the Sea of Marmara below Istanbul's Old City — a long shoreline path of lawns, benches and anglers casting their lines. It is just a few minutes downhill from our hotel in Küçük Ayasofya and offers a calm walk with sea air and Byzantine walls for company. After the crowds of Sultanahmet, it is the quickest way to feel how deeply this city is tied to the sea.
On this page5
A road reclaimed from the sea
Until the mid-20th century most of the strip where the road runs today was water, and waves broke directly against the Byzantine sea walls. During major urban works in the 1950s the shore was filled in and a wide coastal road was built linking Sarayburnu with the districts to the west. It was later named after US President John F. Kennedy, following his assassination in 1963.
The land reclamation cut the walls off from the sea and changed how several historic buildings relate to the shore, but it also gave the city a green ribbon several kilometres long at the foot of the historic peninsula. Today the sea side of the road has a footpath, lawns, seating and, along some stretches, a cycle lane.
Things to do along the promenade
- Walk or jog: the long, flat path is a favourite early-morning route for locals.
- Watch the anglers: fishermen line the rocks, chasing horse mackerel or bluefish depending on the season — children love watching the catch.
- Count the ships: huge tankers and cargo ships wait at anchor on the horizon for their turn to enter the Bosphorus.
- Picnic: on weekends families spread blankets on the lawns; a thermos of tea and a few simit is the local way to do it.
- Sunset: as the sun drops towards Yenikapı, the sea and walls take on warm colours.
Two directions, two different walks
Head east towards Sarayburnu and you pass the windowed façade of the Bukoleon Palace, then the Ahırkapı Lighthouse and the walls of Topkapı Palace. For history lovers this is the richest stretch of the shore, and you can carry on as far as the area around Gülhane Park.
Head west and the shoreline runs past Kumkapı towards Yenikapı, with wider green spaces that fill with families at weekends. Pick one direction and come back through the neighbourhood lanes inland — far more rewarding than retracing your steps.
Notes for families and safety
Kennedy Avenue is a busy multi-lane road with fast traffic. Cross only at signalled crossings, underpasses or footbridges, and keep hold of children's hands. The shore is not a designated swimming area; the rocks can be slippery and shipping is heavy. Shade is limited in summer, so early morning or late afternoon is the most comfortable time to walk. For more ideas, see our guide to Istanbul with children.
Getting there from Sareban Hotel
The promenade is a short downhill walk of a few minutes from Cinci Meydanı Street: go past Little Hagia Sophia, cross the railway line and you are on the Marmara shore. That makes a sea-air stroll before breakfast or a sunset break in the cool of the evening very easy. If you are curious about our sea-view rooms, have a look at our rooms page.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim along Kennedy Avenue?
No, this shore is not a designated swimming area. The rocks can be slippery and shipping is heavy; the promenade is for walking and relaxing.
Is the promenade suitable for children?
Yes, the wide footpath and lawns are family-friendly. The one thing to watch is crossing the main road, which should only be done at controlled crossings.
Can I walk from the promenade to Sultanahmet?
Yes. Climb up through the lanes of Cankurtaran or Küçük Ayasofya and you reach Sultanahmet Square on foot.
Is it safe for an evening walk?
Around sunset the promenade is busy. After dark, stick to lit, busier stretches and return through the neighbourhood streets rather than along empty sections of the shore.
