Kocaeli: A Bithynian City Near Istanbul

If you are thinking all the ancient cities are gathered in the Mediterranean region of Turkey, you are mistaken. In Marmara Region, near Istanbul an ancient Bithynian city Kocaeli, also known as Izmit, stands still.

Nowadays, being busy as one of the most important industrial cities of the country used to be a significant ancient city. Surrounded by the Marmara Sea and the Black Sea, Kocaeli bears the traces of ancient times along with many civilizations that once rules these lands from Byzantians to Seljuks and Ottomans.

Izmit is a great getaway location for people who are looking for a break from Istanbul’s hustle with its provinces with exquisite nature like Korfez, and Dilovası. It also hosts one of the most important skiing centers in Turkey, Kartepe.

For a refreshing break, Kocaeli is welcoming you with open arms.

Kocaeli, also known as Izmit, is relatively easy to access due to its close proximity to Istanbul and other major cities. There are a few options to reach Kocaeli:

By Road: Kocaeli is well connected by highways and is about a 1.5-2 hour drive from Istanbul, depending on traffic. There are also intercity buses available from major cities in Turkey that can take you to Kocaeli.

By Train: The city is serviced by the Turkish State Railways. There are daily trains from Istanbul and Ankara to Kocaeli. The High-Speed Train (YHT) services between Istanbul and Ankara also stop at Izmit station.

By Air: While Kocaeli has an airport, Cengiz Topel Naval Air Station, it has limited service. Most international travelers fly into Istanbul’s airports (Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen International Airport) and then travel by road or train to Kocaeli.

By Ferry: Ferries operate from Istanbul to various points along the Gulf of Izmit. While not the fastest route, it can be a pleasant and scenic way to travel, particularly in good weather.

Packing for a trip to Kocaeli would depend largely on the time of year you’re visiting, as the region experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. Here are some general guidelines:

Clothing: For the summer months (June to August), you’ll want to pack lightweight, breathable clothing as temperatures can get quite warm. During the winter months (December to February), it can get quite cold, particularly at night, so warm clothing, including a heavy coat, scarves, gloves, and a hat, would be necessary. In the spring and fall, temperatures can vary, so packing layers is a good strategy.

Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city. If you’re planning to visit the Kartepe Ski Center or do other outdoor activities, appropriate footwear will be needed.

Toiletries and Medicines: While you can find the most common toiletries and medicines in Kocaeli, it’s often more convenient to bring your own, especially if you have specific brands or prescriptions you prefer.

Adapters: Turkey uses Type F outlets, and the standard voltage is 220 V. If your devices use a different type of plug or can’t handle this voltage, you’ll need to bring appropriate adapters or converters.

Travel Documents: Be sure to pack necessary documents like your passport, driver’s license, credit cards, and any health insurance cards or documents.

Rain Gear: Kocaeli can experience rainfall throughout the year, but it’s particularly common in the winter and spring months. A compact umbrella or rain jacket could be useful.

Sunglasses and Sunscreen: These are important year-round, but especially in the summer, to protect against the sun.

Swimwear: If you’re planning to visit the beaches around the Gulf of Izmit during the summer, you’ll want to pack swimwear.

Kocaeli (Izmit) offers a variety of accommodation options to fit different budgets and preferences. Although my training data only go up until September 2021, and specific recommendations may have changed since then, here are some well-reviewed options that existed at that time:

Wellborn Luxury Hotel: This is a 4-star hotel located on the seafront, offering rooms with views of the Sea of Marmara. The hotel has a fitness center, a restaurant, and a bar.

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Izmit: This is a luxury hotel located in the city center, featuring a fitness center, spa, and several restaurants.

Imperial Park Hotel: A comfortable, budget-friendly option located in the center of Izmit.

Balturk House Hotel: A boutique hotel offering a blend of comfort and charm. It’s known for its hospitality and home-like atmosphere.

Pasha Palas Hotel: A centrally located hotel offering good value, with access to a fitness center and an indoor pool.

The Green Park Kartepe Resort & Spa: If you plan on skiing or enjoying mountain activities, this resort in the Kartepe area offers comfortable accommodations right on the slopes.

Kocaeli, located in Northwestern Turkey, has a transitional climate between a Mediterranean climate and a humid subtropical climate. It is characterized by warm to hot, relatively dry summers and cool to cold, wet winters.

During the summer months (June through August), average high temperatures can reach between 28 to 30 degrees Celsius (82 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit), and the weather is generally sunny and dry.

In the winter months (December through February), temperatures often range from 5 to 10 degrees Celsius (41 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit), and the city experiences rainfall. Snowfall is also possible, though not as common in the city center as it is in the higher elevations nearby, such as the Kartepe area.

Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild and often pleasant temperatures. These seasons tend to be somewhat rainier than summer but less so than winter.

The best time to visit Kocaeli depends largely on what you’re planning to do during your stay.

Spring (April to June): During this period, the weather is usually mild and pleasant, making it a great time to explore the city and its surrounding areas. The countryside also tends to be beautifully green and lush during the spring.

Summer (July and August): The summer months are hot but manageable, especially if you’re planning to spend time on the beaches of the Gulf of Izmit. However, this period can get crowded, particularly during national holidays.

Autumn (September to November): The autumn months are usually warm in the beginning, becoming cooler towards November. This is another period when the weather is generally good for sightseeing.

Winter (December to March): Winters in Kocaeli are cool and rainy. If you are interested in winter sports, Kartepe, which is about 30 kilometers from the city center, has facilities for skiing.

Given its proximity to Istanbul, Kocaeli can also be a great option for a day trip or a weekend getaway any time of the year.

Kocaeli, also known as Izmit, has a long and rich history dating back to ancient times.

Ancient Times: The region around Kocaeli was inhabited from at least the 3rd millennium BC, with archaeological evidence of Hittite presence in the area. During the classical era, it was known as Nicomedia and was an important city in the Bithynia kingdom. Nicomedia is notable for being the eastern and most senior capital of the Roman Empire during the Tetrarchy system instituted by Emperor Diocletian at the end of the 3rd century AD.

Byzantine and Ottoman Periods: After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the city became part of the Byzantine Empire and remained so until it was captured by the Ottoman Turks in the 14th century. Under Ottoman rule, it became a significant city due to its strategic location near Istanbul (then Constantinople) and its position on important trade routes.

Modern Times: Kocaeli continued to grow during the 20th century, particularly with the establishment of many industrial zones in the region. It is now an important industrial hub and a significant contributor to the Turkish economy.

1999 Earthquake: In recent history, Kocaeli was the epicenter of a devastating earthquake in 1999, which caused significant damage to the city and resulted in many casualties. The city has since recovered and rebuilt.

Kocaeli, or Izmit, has a rich history, and many “firsts” and “greatest” aspects can be attributed to its ancient history when it was known as Nicomedia. Here are some of those notable features:

Historical Importance: In ancient times, Nicomedia (modern-day Izmit/Kocaeli) was the metropolis of Bithynia under the Roman Empire, and Diocletian made it the eastern and most senior capital of the Roman Empire (a status it shared with Rome, Mediolanum, and Trier) under the Tetrarchy system.

Industrial Powerhouse: In contemporary times, Kocaeli is known as one of the greatest industrial centers of Turkey. Its proximity to Istanbul and major transport routes, including seaways, makes it a significant hub for industries like oil refining, automotive, and shipping.

Education: Kocaeli University, established in 1992, has grown rapidly to become one of Turkey’s major universities with more than 14 faculties and several institutes and research centers, offering extensive programs in science, engineering, and social sciences.

Natural Disaster Response: Kocaeli is unfortunately known for the 1999 earthquake, one of the most devastating seismic events in Turkey’s history. However, the event also led to some of the greatest advancements in Turkey’s disaster response, emergency management, and seismic building regulations. The reconstruction of the city is considered a notable success in urban disaster recovery.

Kocaeli, also known as Izmit, has a rich history that spans several millennia, and there are a number of historical sites that reflect this history:

Nicomedia Roman Theater: Built during the Roman period when the city was known as Nicomedia, this ancient theater is a testament to Kocaeli’s long history. Excavations have revealed a well-preserved theater structure that gives insight into the city’s past.

Izmit Clock Tower (Saat Kulesi): This Ottoman-era clock tower located in the city center was constructed in 1902 and is one of the symbols of the city.

Orhan Mosque: Built in the 14th century, this is one of the oldest Ottoman structures in the region. It was constructed under the orders of Orhan Gazi, the second bey of the Ottoman Empire.

Kocaeli Museum: The museum houses many artifacts from different periods of Kocaeli’s history, including Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and more recent times.

Seka Paper Mill: Once one of the largest paper mills in the region, Seka has now been converted into a park and a museum showcasing the history of paper manufacturing in the area.

Hagia Sophia Orhan Mosque (Orhan Camii): Originally a Byzantine-era church, it was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest. It’s a beautiful example of how different cultures and religions have left their mark on the city.

Kosekoy Bridge: This is a historical stone bridge built during the Ottoman era. It’s a fine example of Ottoman engineering and architecture.

As a region with a long history, Kocaeli (Izmit) has seen several notable figures throughout its existence. However, it’s important to note that “fame” can be subjective and can depend on one’s perspective and interests.

In the context of ancient history, when the city was known as Nicomedia:

Diocletian: The Roman Emperor Diocletian is a significant figure in the city’s history. He made Nicomedia the eastern and most senior capital city of the Roman Empire during the Tetrarchy system.

Kocaeli, or Izmit, offers a range of activities for different interests, from exploring ancient history to enjoying outdoor adventures and local cuisine. Here are 15 things you might consider:

1. 1. Visit the Nicomedia Roman Theater: This archaeological site gives a glimpse into the city’s ancient past.
   2. Explore the Kocaeli Museum: Learn more about the region’s history, from ancient to modern times.
   3. Stroll around Seka Park: This beautiful park, once a paper factory, is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
   4. Visit the Orhan Mosque: This 14th-century mosque is one of the oldest Ottoman structures in the region.
   5. See the Izmit Clock Tower: Located in the city center, this tower is a symbol of Izmit and offers great photo opportunities.
   6. Enjoy the Beach at Kefken or Kerpe: If you’re visiting in the summer, the beaches at Kefken or Kerpe are lovely places to swim and relax.
   7. Go Skiing at Kartepe: In the winter, Kartepe is a popular spot for skiing and other winter sports.
   8. Visit Sapanca Lake: Just a short drive from Kocaeli, this lake is a beautiful spot for a day trip, offering opportunities for boating, hiking, and picnicking.
   9. Visit the Seka Paper Museum: Discover the history of paper manufacturing in the region at this unique museum.
   10. Explore the Gayret Gemi Museum: A former naval vessel turned into a museum, offering insights into Turkey’s maritime history.
   11. Walk around the Kocaeli City Forest: Enjoy a peaceful walk, jog, or picnic in this beautiful and serene forested area.
   12. Visit the Faruk Yalcin Zoo and Botanic Park: A great choice if you’re traveling with children, this zoo and the botanic park is home to various animals and plant species.
   13. Explore the Yuvacik Dam: Another great spot for nature lovers, with beautiful views and opportunities for hiking.
   14. Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the chance to try local Turkish cuisine in Izmit, including pişi (a kind of fried bread) and cizbiz kofte (meatballs).
   15. Visit the Osman Hamdi Bey Museum: In nearby Eskihisar, you can visit the museum and former home of Osman Hamdi Bey, a prominent Ottoman-era archaeologist, painter, and art educator.

Kocaeli, also known as Izmit, is a city rich in history and surrounded by natural beauty. Here are some of the best places to visit in Kocaeli:

Nicomedia Roman Theater: This ancient Roman theater gives visitors a glimpse into the city’s long history and is a must-visit site for history buffs.

Kocaeli Museum: This museum provides a comprehensive view of the history of the region, with exhibits spanning from ancient times to the present day.

Seka Park: A beautiful urban park situated on the site of a former paper factory. It’s an ideal spot for a stroll, picnic, or simply relaxing by the seaside.

Orhan Mosque: A historic mosque built in the 14th century by Orhan Gazi, the second bey of the Ottoman Empire.

Izmit Clock Tower: Located in the city center, this historic clock tower is one of the symbols of Izmit.

Seka Paper Museum: Housed in a former paper mill, this museum tells the story of paper production in the area.

Gayret Gemi Museum: A former naval vessel that now serves as a museum, offering insight into Turkey’s maritime history.

Kartepe Ski Resort: If you’re visiting in the winter and enjoy winter sports, this is a must-visit. Kartepe is one of the most popular ski resorts in the region.

Sapanca Lake: Although technically outside of Kocaeli, Sapanca Lake is a short drive away and is worth a visit for its natural beauty and leisure activities.

Yuvacik Dam and the surrounding area: The dam and its reservoir are in a beautiful mountainous region, great for picnics and enjoying nature.

Here are a few tour ideas that can help you get a comprehensive experience of Kocaeli:

Historical City Tours: These tours often cover historic landmarks such as the Izmit Clock Tower, Orhan Mosque, and the ruins of the Nicomedia Roman Theater.

Seka Park and Seka Paper Museum Tours: Many tours cover this beautiful urban park and the unique museum detailing the history of paper production in the area.

Nature and Adventure Tours: These tours often include visits to places like Kartepe for skiing in winter or hiking in other seasons, Sapanca Lake for boating and picnicking, or the Yuvacik Dam and its surrounding natural beauty.

Food and Culinary Tours: Kocaeli has a rich culinary tradition, and a food tour can introduce you to local specialties and the best dining spots in the city.

Day Trips from Kocaeli: Given its strategic location, Kocaeli can serve as a starting point for day trips to nearby cities like Istanbul or Bursa.

Kocaeli, or Izmit, offers a range of activities that can be enjoyed even in winter. Here are some of the top things to do in Kocaeli during the winter months:

Kartepe Ski Resort: As one of the most popular ski resorts in the region, Kartepe is a must-visit if you enjoy winter sports. The resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Visit Museums: Kocaeli has several museums that offer insights into the region’s history and culture. The Kocaeli Museum and the Seka Paper Museum are two options to consider.

Explore Seka Park: This urban park, transformed from an old paper factory, can be a relaxing place for a stroll, even in winter.

Hot Springs: Although not in Kocaeli itself, nearby provinces like Yalova and Bursa have thermal baths and hot springs, which can be particularly enjoyable during the colder months.

Enjoy Local Cuisine: Winter is a great time to enjoy hearty Turkish cuisine. Many restaurants serve seasonal and regional specialties.

Shopping: Kocaeli has several shopping centers where you can shop for clothing, accessories, home goods, and more. Shopping can be a good indoor activity when the weather is cold.

Historical Sites: Visit the historic Orhan Mosque and the Izmit Clock Tower. While the weather might be cold, these sites are still accessible and worth seeing.

Here are some places to visit during the summer months:

Kefken and Kerpe Beaches: These are among the most popular beaches in Kocaeli, offering a great opportunity to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand.

Sapanca Lake: Located a short drive from Kocaeli, this lake is a perfect spot for a day trip. You can enjoy a boat ride, swim, or simply relax by the lake.

Seka Park: This urban park offers a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere. It’s perfect for walking, picnicking, and enjoying the sunny weather.

Faruk Yalcin Zoo and Botanic Park: A great option if you’re visiting with children. This zoo and botanical park is home to many animal and plant species.

Yuvacik Dam: The dam and its reservoir offer beautiful views and a peaceful environment. It’s a great spot for hiking or having a picnic.

Cycling and Hiking: Kocaeli has several cycling and hiking paths, including the route around Sapanca Lake and in Kocaeli City Forest.

Visit Historical Sites: Summer is a good time to visit Kocaeli’s historical sites, including the Nicomedia Roman Theater, Orhan Mosque, and Izmit Clock Tower.

Kocaeli, also known as Izmit, is located in northwestern Turkey, along the eastern edge of the Sea of Marmara. While it doesn’t boast a long coastline, it does have a few beaches that can be enjoyed during the summer months. Here are some of the best beaches in and around Kocaeli:

Kerpe Beach: Located in Kandira, a district of Kocaeli, Kerpe Beach is one of the most popular coastal destinations in the region. It’s known for its clean water, sandy beach, and beautiful surrounding nature.

Kefken Beach: Another beach in Kandira, Kefken is also popular among locals and tourists alike. It’s a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Cebeci Beach: This beach, also in Kandira, offers a long sandy shoreline and clear waters. It’s often less crowded, making it a good choice for those looking for a peaceful day at the beach.

Kumcagiz Beach: This beach offers a pleasant coastal retreat with clean, sandy beaches and warm waters. It’s also located in Kandira.

Sarayli Beach: It’s a small but beautiful beach near Kerpe, known for its clear waters and peaceful surroundings.

Black Sea Beaches: If you’re willing to travel a bit further, the Black Sea coast isn’t too far away, with many beautiful beaches that can be reached within a couple of hours.

Here are a few traditional foods you might find in Kocaeli:

Pide: Often described as Turkish pizza, pide is a flatbread typically topped with meat (often ground beef or lamb), vegetables, and cheese. The version of pide that’s popular in Kocaeli often has a thinner crust compared to some other regional variations.

Mihlama (Kuymak): A rich dish made from cornmeal, cheese, and butter. It’s often enjoyed as a breakfast dish or a hearty snack.

Seafood: Given Kocaeli’s location along the Sea of Marmara, seafood plays a significant role in the local cuisine. Grilled fish, fish stews, and fish sandwiches are common.

Pastries: Borek, a pastry made of thin flaky dough known as phyllo (or yufka) and filled with ingredients like cheese, spinach, or ground meat, is a common feature of Turkish cuisine, including in Kocaeli.

Desserts: Baklava, a sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey, is a popular dessert. Other sweet treats include lokma (deep-fried dough balls soaked in syrup) and marzipan, particularly in nearby Bursa.

Meat Dishes: Doner kebab, shish kebab, and kofta (meatballs) are all popular meat dishes that can be found in Kocaeli.

Stuffed Dishes: Dolma (stuffed peppers, grape leaves, or other vegetables) and sarma (rolled grape or cabbage leaves stuffed with rice and often minced meat) are also popular.

Kocaeli Buyuksehir Belediyesi Seka Park Sosyal Tesisleri: Located in the popular Seka Park, this restaurant offers a good selection of Turkish dishes in a scenic setting overlooking the park.

Kartepe Sukay Park: Located in Kartepe, this restaurant offers traditional Turkish food with views of the Sapanca Lake and the surrounding mountains.

Huqqa: This is a modern restaurant chain offering Turkish and international dishes in a stylish setting. The Izmit branch is located in the Symbol Shopping Center.

Otantik Ocakbasi Restaurant: A popular spot for traditional Turkish barbecue, or ocakbasi, where you can enjoy a variety of grilled meats.

Cinaralti Uykuluk: Specializing in uykuluk (sweetbreads), this restaurant is a good choice if you’re interested in trying this traditional dish.

Marmara Balik Evi: A highly regarded seafood restaurant, perfect for trying the local catch of the day.

Venn Boutique Hotel & Restaurant: Known for its fusion of traditional and modern cuisine, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience.

Here are some popular gift ideas from Kocaeli:

Pismaniye: This is a traditional Turkish sweet, similar to cotton candy, but with a slightly different texture and taste. It’s made from sugar and flour and sometimes includes nuts. The city of Izmit, in particular, is famous for its pişmaniye, making it a perfect gift to bring back from Kocaeli.

Olive Oil and Olive Products: Kocaeli region is known for its olive trees and the high-quality olive oil produced here. Olive oil, olives, and other olive products can make great gifts.

Local Handicrafts: Items such as pottery, ceramics, or hand-woven textiles are a good choice. They not only support local artisans but also provide a piece of Kocaeli’s cultural heritage.

Turkish Delight (Lokum): While this sweet treat is popular all over Turkey, you can find some local variations in Kocaeli. Look for shops that offer a variety of flavors and styles.

Local Wines: The Thrace region, which includes Kocaeli, is one of Turkey’s most significant wine-producing regions. A bottle of local wine can make a great gift for a wine lover.

Spices and Turkish Tea: Spices and teas are widely used in Turkish cuisine and can be found in local markets. They can make a great gift for someone who enjoys cooking or tea.