Photo: Ucandairebaskani (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Source 7 places to visit in the Karamürsel district of Kocaeli: Karamürsel Coast, Karamürsel Bey Tomb and Yalakdere Valley. Plan your trip to Karamürsel with local food, practical tips and transport information.
Karamürsel is a district of Kocaeli province. Located on the southern shore of the Gulf of Kocaeli, between Gölcük and Yalova, the district is known for its coastline, fish restaurants, orchards and olive growing. The district covers 262 km² and its elevation is 5 metres.
The Karamürsel Basket is an original handicraft without a handle that can be tied around the waist. A dish specific to Karamürsel is simit dolması, which is prepared especially during Ramadan.
The name Karamürsel is linked to the first navy founded in 1326 by the naval commander Mürsel Alp, nicknamed Kara. A chimney belonging to a textile factory established in Karamürsel during the Ottoman period has survived to the present day without collapsing. Karamürsel was damaged by the 17 August 1999 earthquake (Mw 7.6), with 164 deaths.
Kaptan-ı Derya (Ottoman admiral) Karamürsel Alp named the town founded in 1327 Karamürsel. Karamürsel was damaged in the 17 August 1999 earthquake. During the Cold War, one of the largest US listening bases was established in Karamürsel.
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Photo: Ucandairebaskani (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Source A coastal strip along the southern shore of the Gulf of İzmit, with walking paths, seating areas and cafés. It is an ideal spot for watching the sunset with views of the gulf.
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Photo: Dosseman (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Source The tomb of Karamürsel Bey, regarded as the first commander of the Ottoman navy, is located in the district centre. The district takes its name from this historical figure.
View on mapThe Yalakdere Valley, which stretches south of Karamürsel, is an ideal place for nature lovers, with its green landscape and walking trails along the stream.
View on mapThe memorial tomb of Karamürsel Alp, the first Ottoman admiral.
View on mapA stone bridge from the 17th century, on the road from Karamürsel to İznik.
View on mapA public beach with the Blue Flag award, 1 km from the district centre.
View on mapWhile you are in Karamürsel, you can also see the highlights of Kocaeli province. These places are in other districts.
Karamürsel Simit Dolması was registered as a protected geographical indication on 10 July 2023 (TÜRKPATENT registration no. 1407). Product group: bakery and pastry products, dough products, sweets. Registered by: Karamürsel Municipality.
Karamürsel's famous pide, with its buttery dough and generous filling, is one of the most loved flavours in the region.
Fresh fish from the Gulf of İzmit, served grilled in seaside restaurants.
Pişmaniye, the traditional sweet of Kocaeli, is also produced and eaten in Karamürsel.
A dish specific to Karamürsel, prepared especially during the month of Ramadan.
Karamürsel takes its name from Karamürsel Bey, the first commander of the Ottoman navy. This maritime tradition forms the basis of the district's cultural identity.
Located on the shore of the Gulf of İzmit, Karamürsel is a district with a strong maritime and seaside way of life. Fishing and water sports are important elements of social life.
The economy of Karamürsel is based on agriculture, fishing and the service sector. Olive growing and fruit farming are the main agricultural activities. Coastal tourism generates income in the summer months. Its proximity to İzmit supports industrial employment.
Karamürsel is 35 km from İzmit and 130 km from Istanbul. Access is by the D-100 highway. There are regular bus services to İzmit and Yalova. There is a sea connection to Yalova.
The 7 highlights of Karamürsel are: Karamürsel Coast, Karamürsel Bey Tomb, Yalakdere Valley, Ereğli Kumyalı Beach, Karamürsel Bey Memorial Tomb, Valide Sultan Bridge and Altın Kemer Beach.
Karamürsel Simit Dolması, Karamürsel Pidesi, Gulf Fish and Pişmaniye are the standout flavours on Karamürsel's tables.
Karamürsel is known for Karamürsel Samanlı Olives and the Ottoman Maritime Heritage. It is a product registered as a protected geographical indication with TÜRKPATENT.
Karamürsel is 35 km from İzmit and 130 km from Istanbul. Access is by the D-100 highway. There are regular bus services to İzmit and Yalova. There is a sea connection to Yalova.
Suggested visit length: 1 day. Best time to visit: spring and summer (May-September).