Viaport Marina Istanbul Day Trip Guide from Central Istanbul
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Khalid Al Mansoor
- . February 18, 2026
- . Update: February 18, 2026 5:26 pm
Let’s face it: as much as we love the chaotic charm of Sultanahmet and the buzz of Taksim, sometimes you just need a break. You need open sea, adrenaline, and a place where the crowds aren’t stepping on your sneakers. Enter Viaport Marina in Tuzla.
Located on the far Asian side of the city, this isn’t just a marina; it’s a “Disneyland-meets-Luxury-Outlet” complex built directly on the water. If you are looking to escape the historic center for a day of modern fun, here is your 2026 guide to making the trek.
How to Get There (The Marmaray Hack)
Getting from the European side to Tuzla used to be a nightmare, but in 2026, the Marmaray train line is your best friend.
The Route: Hop on the Marmaray from Sirkeci or Yenikapı heading toward Gebze.
The Stop: Get off at Tuzla Station.
The Final Leg: From the station, it’s a quick 10-minute taxi or minibus (dolmuş) ride to the marina. The sea breeze hits you the moment you step out.
Adrenaline & Aquariums: What to Do
Viaport Marina is designed to keep you busy for 8 hours straight. Here is the hit list:
- The Red Fire Rollercoaster
This is the main event for thrill-seekers. It’s one of the fastest rollercoasters in Europe and sits right on the edge of the marina. Screaming your lungs out while looking at the Princes’ Islands is a therapy session you didn’t know you needed. - ViaSea Aquarium
If you enjoyed our guide on the Catacombs of Alexandria, you will love the depth of the ViaSea Aquarium. It features the longest underwater tunnel in Istanbul. It’s quieter than the Florya aquarium and offers a more intimate look at marine life, including a “Climate Zones” exhibit that is very on-trend for 2026.
- Aslan Park (Lion Park)
Right next door is the controversial but popular Lion Park. It’s a conservation-focused sanctuary for big cats. Seeing a white lion just meters away from a high-end fashion outlet is a surreal experience that sums up modern Istanbul perfectly.
Dining & Shopping
The layout here is open-air, meaning you are shopping under the sun rather than fluorescent lights. It’s an “Outlet” concept, so expect to find brands like Vakko and Beymen at a fraction of the Nişantaşı prices.
For food, skip the fast-food court and head to the marina promenade. Restaurants here offer fresh sea bass (levrek) with a view of the mega-yachts. It’s a vibe similar to the coastal spots in La Marsa—relaxed, chic, and salty.
The Verdict
Viaport Marina is a trek, yes. But for families or anyone needing a “vacation from their vacation,” it is unbeatable. It shows you the modern, wealthy, and fun-loving face of Istanbul that most tourists miss.
