Red Go Kart

In Bahçelievler, in western Istanbul, Red Go Kart offers an open-air track open to all, with no licence or experience. The outdoor layout, in the Yenibosna quarter, is driven in the open air, and people gather as a family or with friends to string together timed laps. It is a local option for the residents of this populous part of the European side, after a dose of speed without crossing the whole metropolis.

Karting stays open to all: a briefing, a helmet, and you head off to find the best line. The format suits families, groups of friends and birthdays, in the relaxed mood typical of urban tracks. As the activity takes place outdoors, it is best to check opening times and prices by season before coming. People rarely leave after a single run, the friendly rivalry and the urge to do better soon taking over on the track.

Bahçelievler is a densely populated district of western Istanbul, well linked to the rest of the city by metro and metrobus. Close to the main roads and the former airport, it puts the historic centre of the metropolis within reach by transport: Hagia Sophia, the Topkapı palace and the Grand Bazaar remain accessible to extend the day. The nearby shopping centres and business districts make it a handy stop for groups. Istanbul, a city straddling two continents, has a thousand other discoveries once the race is over.