From Istanbul: Princes Island Tour with 2 Islands

Exploring the Princes’ Islands from Istanbul: A Practical Review

Taking a day trip from Istanbul to the Princes’ Islands offers a refreshing escape from city life. This tour, which includes visits to Buyukada and another smaller island, promises a blend of scenic boat rides, historic architecture, peaceful strolls, and local flavor. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a break amid nature, history, and gentle seaside breezes.

What we love about this tour is how it combines easy transportation — a comfortable coach and a charming ferry ride — with authentic sights like wooden mansions from the Ottoman era. Plus, you get a taste of local life through a seasonal lunch and optional shopping. A small but notable drawback is that the schedule can feel a bit rushed, especially if you want to explore the islands at a leisurely pace.

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy history and architecture, want a scenic day on the water, and are looking for a relaxing getaway inside a well-organized tour. Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, you’ll find plenty to enjoy, especially if you’re eager to see a different side of Istanbul away from the crowded city streets.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation: Hotel pickup (if selected), coach, and ferry rides make travel seamless.
• Historical charm: Discover the Ottoman-era mansions and learn about the islands’ past as exile and monastic sites.
• Relaxing free time: Options to walk, lounge on beaches, or rent bikes for a more active experience.
• Authentic local flavors: Enjoy a seasonal, fresh lunch with options for boat or island restaurants.
• Authentic insights: Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with stories about the islands’ history.
• Authentic shopping: Opportunity to browse local shops for souvenirs and leather goods.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on This Princes’ Islands Tour

Departure from Istanbul

Your day begins with a comfortable coach pickup (if you’ve chosen this option), heading towards the coast where you’ll board a ferry for the scenic cruise. If you’re not opting for pickup, you can meet the guide directly at the pier, which is straightforward and well-organized. This initial leg is a highlight — the ferry ride itself is a relaxing moment, offering panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline and the shimmering waters of the Marmara Sea.

The Ferry Ride: Scenic and Informative

The boat trip is more than just transportation; it’s part of the experience. Your guide will share interesting stories about the islands’ past, from their role as exile places for Ottoman statesmen to Byzantine monastic communities. Many reviews mention how enjoyable this part is, with travelers feeding seagulls bread slices (“simits”) and soaking in the views.

Expect to see the charming wooden mansions, which showcase late Ottoman architecture. The sea breeze and the distant skyline make for perfect photo moments. As one reviewer pointed out, “the boat ride until we reached the island was very enjoyable,” and many find this a peaceful, picturesque start to their day.

More Great Tours Nearby

On Arrival: Buyukada’s Majestic Mansions and Pedestrian Streets

Once on Buyukada, the largest of the Princes’ Islands, you’ll find streets closed to cars, making it ideal for walking or riding bikes. The tour includes an electric car ride, which offers a great way to see the stately mansions and learn about their history without exhausting yourself. Many travelers note the Ottoman-era architecture as a highlight, with some describing the atmosphere as “peaceful,” a stark contrast to busy Istanbul.

Walking through the streets, you’ll notice the colorful houses, quiet cafes, and the presence of seagulls. A favorite activity, as highlighted in reviews, is simply strolling and soaking in the tranquil ambiance. Some guests choose to rent bikes for a more active exploration, with a modest fee (around 250 TL), and enjoy the sea breezes while cycling around.

Free Time and Optional Activities

The tour allows about an hour of free time on the second, smaller island, Heybeliada, which is less crowded and equally charming. This is a good chance to browse local shops for souvenirs or relax on the quiet beaches during the summer months. While the beach entrance fee isn’t included, the chance to dip your toes in the water or lounge on the sand is well worth it.

For those interested, shopping for local souvenirs or leather goods is encouraged; many reviews mention picking up unique keepsakes from the island shops. If you prefer, you can skip the optional shopping and simply enjoy the scenery or a quiet coffee.

Lunch and Return Journey

Lunch is served either on the boat (summer months) or at a cozy island restaurant (winter months), featuring fresh, seasonal dishes. The reviews indicate that the food is generally good, with some describing it as “hot and nice,” adding to the relaxed vibe. After lunch, it’s time to soak up more of the island’s peaceful surroundings or perhaps sit by the water and watch the boats go by.

Later in the afternoon, you’ll gather for the return boat trip to Istanbul. This leg offers views of the Marmara Sea and gives you one last chance to enjoy the scenery. The tour concludes with a comfortable coach ride back to your hotel or meeting point, wrapping up a day filled with scenic beauty, history, and relaxation.

Authentic Experiences and Insights from Travelers

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, who share engaging stories about the islands’ history and architecture. One reviewer said, “The guide gave us information by telling us about the surroundings at regular intervals. He was a helpful friend,” showing how the guide’s local knowledge adds value.

The scenic views during the boat trip are consistently highlighted — travelers love the way the sea sparkles and the skyline contrasts with the tranquil islands. Several reviews mention how the peaceful atmosphere on the islands is a perfect escape from busy Istanbul. For example, “Büyükada is a peaceful place, far from the noise of the city,” as one guest observed.

The delicious seasonal lunch and the opportunity to feed seagulls add a charming, authentic touch to the day. Many mention how the small group size and well-organized schedule** make for a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Timing: Check the available starting times; the tour lasts about 8 hours, making it suitable for a full day.
• Transportation: Hotel pickup is available if you’re staying within designated areas; outside of those, you’ll need to meet at the pier.
• Weather: Summer is the best time for beaches and outdoor exploration, but the boat ride is pleasant year-round.
• What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and perhaps a hat. If renting a bike, bring cash for the rental fee.
• Cost: The value is quite good considering the included ferry, guidance, and lunch. Additional expenses like beach entrance fees or bike rentals are extra.
• Accessibility: The electric car tour helps those with mobility concerns, but consider the walking involved.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate a blend of history, nature, and local culture. It’s a good option if you want a relaxing day away from the hustle and bustle, but without sacrificing comfort or organization. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find plenty to enjoy, especially if you’re keen to explore Istanbul’s surroundings in a convenient, guided setting.

If you’re looking for stunning vistas, historic charm, and a peaceful seaside vibe, this Princes’ Islands trip offers all that and more. It’s a balanced experience that combines scenic beauty, cultural insights, and relaxed leisure at a reasonable price, making it a standout choice for a day trip from Istanbul.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot, especially during high season, as this is a popular excursion.

Is hotel pickup included?
Pickup is available if your hotel is within the specified areas. Otherwise, you’ll meet the tour at the designated pier.

What’s the best time of year to go?
Summer months are ideal for beaches and outdoor activities, but the tour runs year-round with variations in seasonal options like lunch location.

How long is the boat ride?
The ferry ride to the islands is part of the 8-hour tour, with the cruise itself being a scenic and relaxing segment.

Can I rent a bike on the island?
Yes, bike rentals are available for about 250 TL, which many guests find worthwhile for exploring the large island at their own pace.

Are there options for free time on both islands?
The tour includes about an hour of free time on the second island, Heybeliada, giving you a chance to explore or relax.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, especially with the electric car tour option and the overall relaxed pace, but consider individual mobility needs for walking and biking.

Final Thoughts

This Princes’ Islands tour from Istanbul offers a well-rounded day of scenic boat rides, peaceful walks, and cultural discovery. It’s a great way to see a different side of Istanbul, away from its busy streets while still enjoying local architecture and history. The guide’s insights, combined with the beautiful views and authentic local touches like fresh food and shopping, make for an enjoyable and memorable experience.

For those looking for a peaceful escape with plenty of natural beauty and historical interest, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate organized comfort, authentic scenery, and a touch of local charm. Whether you’re interested in a leisurely day of sightseeing or a photo-rich adventure, the Princes’ Islands are an excellent choice for your Istanbul itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: