Lake İznik, the largest natural lake in the Marmara region and the fifth largest in Turkey, combines nature with history. Olive groves, orchards and historic walls on UNESCO’s Tentative List surround the town. Visit the submerged basilica, historic mosques and tile workshops, then explore places to eat beside the lake.
Featured Travel Destinations in and Around Iznik Lake
Iznik Underwater Basilica (St. Neophytos Church)
The submerged basilica, about 20 metres offshore in Lake İznik, is an important trace of the town’s early Christian history. Recent assessments by the excavation director link earlier church remains at the site to the First Council of Nicaea in 325. View the remains from the shore and ask about current visiting options.
Historical Iznik Hagia Sophia Mosque (Orhan Mosque)
This historical building, located in the city centre of Iznik and hosting the 7th Council of Iznik (8th century AD), is a turning point in the history of Christianity. The work, which was converted into a mosque by Orhan Gazi, presents the synthesis of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.
Iznik Museum (Nilüfer Hatun Imareti) and Archaeology Museum
Nilüfer Hatun İmareti, an elegant example of Ottoman architecture, now serves as a museum. The museum and archaeological museum complex display sarcophagi, coins, tiles and floor mosaics spanning the Neolithic, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods.
Iznik Walls, Lefke and Istanbul Gates
The historical Iznik walls, which are approximately 5 kilometres long and surround the city like a circle, reveal the defensive architecture of the Roman and Byzantine periods. Lefke Gate and Istanbul Gate, the magnificent gates of the city walls, are a great backdrop for photography enthusiasts.
Iznik Tile Bazaar and Green Mosque
Green Mosque, built during the reign of Murad I and famous for its turquoise, green and purple tiles on its minaret, is one of the symbols of Iznik. You can watch traditional handicraft Iznik tiles being made and shop at the Tile Bazaar, right next to the mosque.
Coastal Promenade and Sunset
The lakeside promenade has tea gardens and walking and cycling paths. At sunset, red tones reflected on the water create a striking view.
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Lake Fish Restaurants: Try the well-known local Catfish, Catfish Skewers and Crayfish (Lake Lobster) Authentic fish restaurants along the beach are very popular.
Traditional Flavours: In the town centre, there are fresh bakery products, the famous Iznik meatballs and ember tea facilities in the tea gardens by the lake.
Please contact reception for travel details, visiting hours and further information.
Don't Leave Without Doing:
Taste the Famous Catfish or Crayfish: Taste freshly caught catfish and lake lobster at lakeside restaurants.
Visit Tile Workshops: See the firing and processing processes of the world-famous Iznik tiles and buy souvenirs.
Photograph the Sunset by the Lake: Watch the sun set over the lake waters in the evening and take wonderful photos.
Tips:
Have Museum Card with You: Since museums and some historical sites are affiliated with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, it is advantageous to have your Museum Card with you.
Attention to Monday: The museum and some historical buildings are closed on Mondays. It is recommended that you plan your cultural tour between Tuesday and Sunday.