Pendik is a suburb of Istanbul, Turkey, located on the Asian side of the city on the banks of the Sea of Marmara. The area has a mix of architecturally splendid mosques, busy weekend markets and a range of traditional Turkish restaurants. Pendik is home to the Marinturk Istanbul City Port, the third largest and newest marina in Istanbul.

Begin an exploration of this area by heading to Marinturk Istanbul City Port, one of the most vibrant coastal areas of Istanbul. It is one of the best places from which to visit Princes’ Islands and the resorts located on the Sea of Marmara. Visitors with sailing abilities can moor their own boat here or even try their hand at diving with instructors. The marina is nine kilometres from the island of Büyükada with its Victorian era wooden houses, museums, forests and beaches. Mariners can sail to the islands and enjoy peace and tranquillity, dine in the harbour-side restaurants or take a horse and carriage ride through the narrow streets. Those who wish to remain on dry land can explore the beautiful mosque of Dolayoba Velibaba Yeni Camii. With ancient Turkish Islamic architecture, calligraphy and stained glass windows illuminating the interior, it’s a site not to be missed. Travellers who like a good bargain should head to the local market where souvenirs, fresh produce and handicrafts can be purchased. Venturing a little out of Pendik to Tuzla, adventurers can dine in a variety of seafood restaurants and is renowned for them. The area has a small-town atmosphere, historic streets and is close to Istanbul Circuit, famous for its Formula One races.

The rail station of Pendik is 1.8 kilometres from Marinturk Istanbul City Port. High-speed trains which arrive from the Turkish capital, Ankara into Pendik YHT Gar. Visitors can rely on public transport from the station, and there are buses and taxis available. It is possible to reach mainland Istanbul on the European side from Pendik, as visitors can head for the IETT bus stop at the ferry dock where buses transport travellers to the ferry port of Kadikoy.

Pendik shows records of settlement dating back 5,000 years to the times of the Ancient Macedonians. Throughout history the area was known as a weekend retreat for Istanbul’s wealthy and today, still plays host to an abundance of recreational facilities, world class marinas and lively markets.