Most people think Kartal is just a ferry stop on the way to the islands — if that's you too, stick around a bit longer. The coastline runs longer than you'd expect, with everything from tea gardens to fish sandwiches lined up along it. Head toward Yakacık and Aydos Forest and you'll genuinely look down over İstanbul. Towers replaced the old factory image ages ago; if you still want to escape the noise, turn toward the hill instead. Missed the ferry? Don't worry — roll the dice, Kartal makes its own plan.