The Full-Day Princes Island Tour from Istanbul offers a convenient way to explore the tranquil islands of Büyükada and Heybeli. Guests can enjoy a scenic ferry ride, electric car transport for easy sightseeing, and a delicious lunch onboard. While the tour provides a comfortable experience, some reviewers suggest considering independent exploration for a more personalized adventure. Whether you choose the organized tour or go at your own pace, the Princes Islands promise a delightful escape from the bustling city. The choice is yours, but one thing’s certain – the islands’ picturesque landscapes and peaceful ambiance are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Good To Know
- Full-day tour to the Princes’ Islands from Istanbul, including a scenic ferry ride and electric car travel on the islands.
- Opportunity to explore the islands at your own pace, with ample free time for shopping and sightseeing.
- Delicious lunch served onboard during the tour.
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off available, with air-conditioned transportation provided.
- Flexible cancellation policy, allowing for last-minute changes to accommodate shifting travel plans.
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Tour Overview
This full-day Princes Island Tour from Istanbul allows visitors to explore the largest island in the Sea of Marmara.
The tour includes a scenic ferry ride, travel by electric car on the islands, and ample free time for shopping and sightseeing. Guests can enjoy a delicious lunch onboard.
With 24 reviews and an overall rating of 3.5 stars, this tour offers a comprehensive way to experience the Princes Islands.
Highlights include visiting Büyükaada and Heybeli Island, as well as passing by the Topkapı Palace, the former residence of Ottoman Sultans.
However, live guide commentary isn’t allowed in special sections of some attractions.
Pickup and Transportation
The tour offers hotel pick-up and drop-off depending on the booking option.
Travelers will be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle for comfortable travel.
The round-trip boat crossing is included in the tour.
The meeting point is at Cibali, opposite Kadirhas University, and the start time is 08:30 AM, with travelers needing to be ready by 09:15 AM for those without transfer.
The tour includes:
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Air-conditioned vehicle for comfortable travel
- Round-trip boat crossing
- Meeting point at Cibali, opposite Kadirhas University
Itinerary Highlights
Departing from central Istanbul, the tour takes travelers to the Unkapani port, where they board ferries to explore the largest island in the Sea of Marmara – Büyükada and Heybeli Island. Along the way, the tour passes by the iconic Topkapı Palace, the former residence of Ottoman Sultans. While live guide commentary is not allowed in certain sections of the attractions, visitors can still enjoy the scenic views and explore the islands at their own pace.
| Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Büyükada | Largest of the Princes’ Islands |
| Heybeli Island | Second largest island in the archipelago |
| Topkapı Palace | Impressive former home of Ottoman rulers |
| Free Time | Opportunity for shopping and sightseeing |
| Electric Car Ride | Convenient way to explore the islands |
Inclusion and Exclusion
The tour includes round-trip boat transportation, an electric car ride to explore the islands, and a delicious lunch served onboard.
However, the tour doesn’t include:
- Hotel pick-up or drop-off, unless the booking option includes it
- Live guide commentary in special sections of some attractions
- Wheelchair accessibility, though the tour is stroller accessible
- Infants who must sit on laps during the tour
While the tour provides a comprehensive Princes Island experience, there are a few exclusions travelers should be aware of to ensure the tour aligns with their needs and expectations.
Cancellation Policy
Travelers can take advantage of a flexible cancellation policy for the Full-Day Princes Island Tour.
Customers can cancel their booking up to 24 hours before the experience and receive a full refund. This allows for greater flexibility in planning, as travelers won’t be penalized for last-minute changes in their schedules.
The tour operator understands that plans can often shift, and they’ve designed their cancellation policy to accommodate these situations.
As long as customers provide notice within the 24-hour window, they’ll get their money back with no additional fees or penalties.
This policy helps ensure a smooth and stress-free booking process for all.
Tour Feedback
The tour’s reviews present a mixed picture, with travelers providing a range of feedback.
While some praised the service and punctual timing, others criticized the organization and lack of guidance on the islands.
The reviews include:
- 14 five-star ratings praising the overall experience
- 1 four-star review
- 1 three-star review
- 1 two-star review
- 7 one-star ratings citing poor organization and value for money
Some travelers recommend exploring the Princes Islands independently to save time and money, rather than booking this tour.
Recommended Alternatives
For travelers seeking an alternative to the full-day Princes Island tour from Istanbul, one option is to explore the islands independently. This can save both time and money compared to the organized tour.
Visitors can take the ferry to the islands and wander at their own pace, allowing more flexibility to discover the local atmosphere. Plus, some travelers have found the organized tour lacking in guidance and organization, so going solo may provide a more enjoyable experience.
However, those unfamiliar with the islands may miss out on key highlights without a knowledgeable guide. Ultimately, the independent option offers a more budget-friendly and personalized approach, though it requires more self-direction.
Additional Information
According to the information provided, the full-day Princes Island tour from Istanbul includes several key logistics. The tour offers hotel pick-up and drop-off, depending on the booking option.
Travelers will ride in an air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy a round-trip boat crossing. The meeting point is at Cibali, opposite Kadirhas University, with a start time of 8:30 AM. Guests should be ready by 9:15 AM if they haven’t booked the transfer service.
The tour has the following additional details:
- Confirmation is received at the time of booking.
- The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible.
- Infants must sit on laps.
- The maximum number of travelers per tour is 50.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Photography Opportunities Available During the Tour?
According to the tour overview, there are ample opportunities for sightseeing and photography during the tour. The electric car ride and scenic ferry crossing provide picturesque views of the Princes’ Islands and the surrounding Sea of Marmara.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Beverages on the Tour?
Passengers can bring their own snacks and beverages on the tour. The tour operator doesn’t provide any restrictions on carrying personal food and drinks. However, a lunch is included as part of the tour package.
Is There a Dress Code to Be Followed During the Tour?
There is no formal dress code for the tour, but comfortable, casual attire is recommended. Visitors should dress appropriately for the weather and be prepared for walking on the islands. Swimwear can be worn if planning to swim.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour if Needed?
The tour duration cannot be extended, as it’s a fixed full-day itinerary. Guests should plan their time accordingly, as the tour doesn’t allow for adjusting the schedule during the experience. Any special requests should be made in advance.
How Many Stops Are Included in the Island Tour?
The tour includes visits to two Princes Islands – Büyükada and Heybeli Island. Travelers will have the opportunity to explore these islands, which are the largest in the Sea of Marmara.
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The Sum Up
The Full-Day Princes Island Tour from Istanbul offers a convenient way to explore the scenic islands, with electric car transportation and a delicious lunch included. While the tour provides a comfortable experience, some reviews suggest considering independent exploration for a more personalized adventure. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences and travel goals.