Discussion: Running in Istanbul?

I'll be visiting Istanbul for a few days. Any advice on where to run, and any issues with running attire?

I'm not sure if Mike is asking you, but I am certain that not a single current resident of Istanbul (or Turkey at all, for that matter), was responsible for killing Armenians in the early 1900's, but such is the nature of racism. Too bad people are so stupid.

To answer Mike's question, downtown Istanbul proper is a no go for running (at least when I was there), due to copious and chaotic traffic, unless you like stopping and taking your life in your hands at every intersection, and there is no way to get much of a running rhythm that way.

A better bet is some parks just on the outskirts of town (check my website for the O maps), fine trail running, but you will need to either rent a car (not recommended), or navigate the public transit system.

There is a nice O club in Istanbul who will probably give you a much better answer.

HTH and have a nice trip. Istanbul is one of those special places that you will never forget.

Istanbul 5-days O-event:
http://www.ist5days.com/
Local o-club contact: info@ist5days.com

I ran a sprint right in the historic section, mid-day Saturday. Vehicle traffic was not a problem, but the were lots of people to avoid. Shorts, short-sleeve shirt, no problem. But then there were hundreds of us doing it and I imagine there is safety in numbers.

Wonderful experience.

Map. Start was in front of the Blue Mosque. 5 to 11 were in the park just below the palace. The tram runs right along the road on the west side of the map so access from elsewhere is easy.

Hi Mike,
Which part of Istanbul are you going to stay in? I can make some suggestions according to that.

Also the club that organizes Ist5days is Istanbul Orienteering Club (IOG) and they have training courses every Sunday morning. The web page for club website: www.iog.org.tr the website is in Turkish, but if you let me know about the dates you're going to be in Istanbul, i can let them know and make them contact with you, so that maybe you can arrange transportation with one of the runners.

Thanks for all the advice! Looking forward to the trip.

Zeynep, thank you. I didn't find your email on your profile. You can reach me at mikeminium at aol dot com. I'd like to hear from you and might be able to make one of your Sunday training runs.

I've put the Istanbul 5-day on my calendar several times never to make it happen. Though I have been to Istanbul and what a great place, enjoy it, and eat a lot, the food is amazing!

...what Vector said, awesome place.

Oo, sorry for that. My e-mail is abali.zeynep@gmail.com . Whenever you like, you're more than welcome. :)