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5 places to visit in the Serdivan district of Sakarya: North Shore of Lake Sapanca, Sakarya City Forest and Sakarya University Campus. Plan your trip to Serdivan with local food, practical tips and transport information.

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Serdivan is a district of Sakarya Province, west of Adapazarı and north of Lake Sapanca. It was formed by migrants who settled there as a result of the Turkey–Greece population exchange. After the 1999 Gölcük earthquake its population grew rapidly; it gained municipal status in 1982 and district status in 2008. The district covers an area of 130 km².

Name

The first name of the district is thought to have been Petrades. Throughout history it has been known by names such as Sardovan or Sarıdoğan. In the Ottoman period, the expression Ser Divan, meaning ‘head divan’, was in common use.

History

Today’s Serdivan was established thanks to the population exchange carried out under the Treaty of Lausanne. Serdivan, which was founded in 1923 with 400 households, is known to have had a settlement plan. The first municipal administration was established in 1956.

Climate

Serdivan has a Black Sea climate and a temperate climate. Summers are warm, humid and sunny; winters are cold and partly cloudy.

History and Culture

Serdivan was formed by migrants who settled there as a result of the Turkey–Greece population exchange. Serdivan had village status until 1956. After the 1999 Gölcük earthquake its population grew rapidly; it became a municipality in 1982 and a district in 2008. The settlement is thought to have been founded in the 17th century by the Rum community. Serdivan is one of the 4 metropolitan districts that make up Sakarya Province.

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Places to Visit in Serdivan

  • 1 Historic
  • 2 Nature
  • 2 Attraction
Nature

North Shore of Lake Sapanca

The district of Serdivan lies on the north shore of Lake Sapanca.

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Nature

Sakarya City Forest

The city forest within the boundaries of Serdivan, with walking trails, sports areas and picnic facilities, is the green space most preferred by the city's residents.

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Attraction

Sakarya University Campus

The Esentepe Campus of Sakarya University in Serdivan stands out for its wide green spaces and modern facilities.

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Attraction

Serdivan Lake Park

A park in Serdivan district, to the north-east of Lake Sapanca. It was created so that the natural beauty of the region could be opened for use without being spoilt.

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Historic

Justinianus Bridge (Beşköprü)

The bridge whose address is given as Serdivan – Adapazarı on the Culture Portal. Its distance from the city centre is stated as 8 km.

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Places to Visit Around Sakarya Province

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While you are in Serdivan, you can also see the highlights of Sakarya province. These places are in other districts.

  • Sapanca Lake — A tectonic freshwater lake 12 km west of Sakarya city centre, 16 km long and covering 46.9 km²; its deepest point is 61 metres.
  • Acarlar Floodplain Forest — Between Karasu and Kaynarca, Türkiye's largest unbroken floodplain (longoz) forest, 7.5 km long; it has been a first-degree natural site since 1998 and is a breeding and wintering ground for migratory birds.
  • Taraklı — A district in the south-east of the province that has preserved its Ottoman townscape with mansions more than three centuries old; it is known for making boxwood spoons and combs.
  • Yunus Paşa Mosque — A domed, lead-roofed mosque in Taraklı built in 1517 by Grand Vizier Yunus Paşa; locally it is known as the Kurşunlu Mosque (Lead Mosque).
  • Poyrazlar Lake — A 67-hectare barrier lake 7–8 km north-east of Adapazarı, formed when the Sakarya River changed its course; 154 bird species have been recorded on its forest-fringed shore.
  • Sakarya Museum — A museum opened in 1993 in a house built in 1915, where Atatürk stayed in 1922 and met his mother Zübeyde Hanım; it displays archaeological and ethnographic items.

Practical Information for Visiting Serdivan

Suggested time
Half a day to 1 day
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn
Places to visit
5 places

What to Eat in Serdivan

Food guide →

  • Islama Köfte (soaked meatballs)

    Islama köfte, the signature dish of Sakarya, is served in the restaurants of Serdivan using the traditional recipe.

  • Serpme Kahvaltı (lavish breakfast spread)

    A serpme kahvaltı can be enjoyed at lakeside venues in Serdivan with views of Lake Sapanca.

Culture, Local Products and Economy of Serdivan

  • Modern City Culture

    Serdivan is the fastest-developing district of Sakarya. A contemporary way of life has taken shape with its university, shopping centres and modern housing projects.

Local Products

  • Local Honey — Flower honey gathered from the forests around Serdivan, known for its natural and aromatic character.

Economy

Serdivan is one of the most developed districts of Sakarya. The service sector, trade and construction are the main economic activities. Sakarya University makes an important contribution to the district's economy.

How to Get to Serdivan

Serdivan is a district adjoining Adapazarı. The TEM motorway and the D-650 highway pass through the district. It is about 120 km from Sabiha Gökçen Airport.

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Serdivan: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the places to see in Serdivan?

The 5 main attractions in Serdivan: North Shore of Lake Sapanca, Sakarya City Forest, Sakarya University Campus, Serdivan Lake Park and Justinianus Bridge (Beşköprü).

What is there to eat in Serdivan?

Islama Köfte and Serpme Kahvaltı are the standout flavours of Serdivan's tables.

What is Serdivan famous for?

Serdivan is known for Local Honey and Modern City Culture. Flower honey gathered from the forests around Serdivan is known for its natural and aromatic character.

How do I get to Serdivan?

Serdivan is a district adjoining Adapazarı. The TEM motorway and the D-650 highway pass through the district. It is about 120 km from Sabiha Gökçen Airport.

How much time should I set aside for a visit to Serdivan?

Suggested visit length: half a day to 1 day. Best time to visit: spring and autumn.

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Other Districts of Sakarya

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