Where Is Maşukiye and How Do You Get There?

Maşukiye is a neighbourhood of Kartepe district in Kocaeli province, in north-west Turkey. It sits on the lower slopes of the Samanlı Mountains, below Kartepe and a few kilometres from Sapanca Lake. Because it lies between Istanbul and Sakarya, close to the TEM (E-80) motorway and the D-100 highway, the easiest way to get there is by car.

Public transport is possible too, but you will need to change in İzmit or Kartepe for the last stretch. Below are the general routes from each direction and a few tips for the road.

Which province and district is Maşukiye in?

Maşukiye belongs to Kartepe district in Kocaeli province. Because it is so close to Sapanca, people often assume it is in Sakarya. Sapanca district is in Sakarya, while Maşukiye is on the Kocaeli side of the provincial border. Searching for Maşukiye, Kartepe in your navigation app is enough.

How do you get to Maşukiye from Istanbul?

From Istanbul, head east on the TEM (E-80) motorway or the D-100 highway and continue past İzmit. After İzmit, follow the signs for Kartepe, Maşukiye and Sapanca, leave the main road and take the road up to the village. The route is well signposted and a navigation app will show the current exit.

Depending on traffic and which side of Istanbul you start from, the drive takes a couple of hours or so. It is noticeably shorter from the Asian side. The motorway is tolled. The D-100 is free but slower, as it passes through built-up areas.

How do you get there from the Ankara direction?

Coming from Ankara, Bolu or Düzce, drive west on the motorway and continue past Sakarya. Leave at one of the exits around Sapanca and follow the signs for Kartepe and Maşukiye. For travellers from Ankara, Maşukiye makes a comfortable overnight stop before reaching Istanbul.

How do you get there from İzmit and Sakarya?

From central İzmit, take the D-100 east towards Kartepe. It is a short trip and the road is usually easy on weekdays. From Sakarya (Adapazarı) and Sapanca, head west towards Kartepe until you reach the Maşukiye turn-off.

Travellers from the Bursa and İzmir direction can cross the gulf and join the same route via İzmit.

Can you reach Maşukiye by public transport?

Yes, but do not expect a direct service. The usual approach is to take an intercity bus or train to İzmit, then continue on a municipal bus or minibus towards Kartepe and Maşukiye. Route numbers and timetables change, so check Kocaeli's current public transport information before you travel.

If you have luggage or will arrive late in the evening, a taxi from İzmit or Kartepe centre is more practical. It is also worth asking your accommodation whether they can arrange a transfer.

How do you get there from the airport?

If you are flying in, Sabiha Gökçen Airport on the Asian side of Istanbul is more convenient than Istanbul Airport because of its location. From there you can hire a car or book a private transfer and travel by motorway. For larger families, a pre-booked transfer is the most comfortable option.

Parking and weekend traffic in the village

• Arrive early: At weekends and on public holidays the road through the village clogs up towards midday. Early arrivals find both a parking space and a stream-side table without trouble.
• Parking: Most restaurants and places to stay have their own car park. Use the one where you are eating or staying. Parking on the roadside only slows traffic further.
• Going home: The motorway towards Istanbul gets busy on Sunday evenings. Leaving in the early afternoon or late in the evening shortens the drive.
• Winter: The road as far as the village is usually open. If you plan to drive up the Kartepe summit road, carry winter tyres and snow chains.
• Fuel: Filling up on the main road before you head up to the village saves hassle.

Where to stay and what to do once you arrive

Day visitors usually build their day around breakfast, a stream walk and trout. For ideas, see our guide to places to visit in Maşukiye. If you would rather stay the night after making the trip, you can choose a bungalow, villa or hotel from the Maşukiye and Kartepe accommodation listings. For meals, the food and drink page covers the options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Maşukiye close to Sapanca?

Yes. Maşukiye is only a few kilometres from Sapanca Lake and a short drive away. It is easy to visit both on the same day.

When is the best time to set off for Maşukiye?

Any time on a weekday is fine. At weekends, leaving early in the morning is the best choice, as you avoid congestion both on the motorway and in the village.

Do you need a car in Maşukiye?

The village centre is walkable. You will need a car or taxi for the Kartepe summit, Sapanca Lake and bungalows away from the centre. When booking, ask how far the property is from the centre.

Does the road to Maşukiye close in winter?

The road to the village is open for most of the winter. In heavy snow, chains may be required or temporary restrictions may apply on the Kartepe summit road, so check current road conditions before setting off.