Princess Islands Tour With Lunch and Guide

The Princess Islands Tour offers a delightful excursion from the bustling city of Istanbul. Guests can escape the crowds and enjoy a scenic ferry ride to the tranquil, car-free islands. During the tour, they’ll savor a four-course lunch made with seasonal ingredients while taking in captivating views of Ottoman architecture. With a maximum capacity of 70 travelers, the experience provides a personalized touch, allowing ample time for swimming and exploration. As local guides share historical insights, visitors can enjoy the beauty of the Bosphorus Strait and the peaceful island life. This tour promises a memorable day away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Good To Know

• A scenic ferry ride through the Bosphorus Strait with views of Ottoman mansions, exploring the two largest car-free Princess Islands near Istanbul.
• A 6-hour tour starting at 8:30 AM with a maximum capacity of 70 travelers for a more intimate experience.
• Includes a four-course lunch featuring seasonal ingredients and allocated time for swimming and island exploration.
• Pickup service available from central Istanbul hotels, with additional charges for hotels outside the central locations.
• Overall tour experience rated 3.5 stars from 11 reviews, suggesting mixed feedback and the importance of considering guest preferences.

Tour Overview

The Princess Islands Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the two largest car-free islands south of Istanbul. Provided by Sultanahmet Old City Travel Turizm Organizasyon, this group tour takes guests on a scenic ferry ride through the Bosphorus Strait, offering views of Ottoman mansions along the way.

The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 8:30 AM, with a maximum capacity of 70 travelers. Highlights include a four-course lunch featuring seasonal ingredients, as well as time allocated for swimming and exploring the islands.

With a 3.5-star rating from 11 reviews, this tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the tranquility of these car-free islands just outside Istanbul.

Itinerary and Activities

Visiting two largest car-free islands south of Istanbul, the Princess Islands Tour takes guests on a scenic ferry ride through the Bosphorus Strait.

Passengers enjoy captivating views of Ottoman mansions along the way. The tour includes a four-course lunch featuring seasonal ingredients.

Guests have allocated time for swimming and exploring the islands, which offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city.

The tour provides:

1. A glimpse into the peaceful island life.
2. An opportunity to savor local cuisine.
3. Freedom to enjoy the islands at one’s own pace.

Inclusions

The Princess Islands Tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, depending on the booking option.

Travelers are transported in an air-conditioned vehicle and provided with round-trip boat crossing to the islands. A local guide is included to offer historical insights during the tour.

Lunch and drinks are provided, featuring seasonal ingredients in a four-course meal. However, tips for the driver and guide aren’t included in the tour price.

The tour is stroller accessible but not wheelchair accessible. Infant car seats are available for those who need them.

Pickup Details

Free pickup from central Istanbul hotels in the Old City and Taksim areas is provided for this tour.

Additional charges may apply for hotels located in other parts of the city.

However, the tour doesn’t offer pickup from hotels on the Asian side of Istanbul.

If guests choose not to use the pickup service, they must be ready at the meeting point in Cibali, 34083 Fatih, Istanbul, by 9:15 AM.

The key pickup details are:

1. Free pickup from central Istanbul hotels in the Old City and Taksim areas.
2. Additional charges may apply for hotels in other locations.
3. No pickup service from hotels on the Asian side of Istanbul.

Duration and Capacity

This tour starts at 8:30 AM and has a maximum capacity of 70 travelers.

The duration of the tour isn’t specified, but it’s likely that the full experience, including the ferry ride, island visits, and lunch, takes several hours to complete.

Travelers should be prepared for a full-day outing. The group size is limited to 70 to ensure a more personalized and comfortable experience, as the islands can get crowded.

This tour is suitable for travelers who want to explore the Princess Islands at a leisurely pace and enjoy a delicious lunch while taking in the scenic Bosphorus views.

Reviews and Ratings

According to the information provided, the Princess Islands Tour has 11 reviews with an overall rating of 3.5 stars. This suggests that the tour has received a mix of positive and negative feedback from previous participants.

To gain a better understanding of the guest experience, some key points to consider are:

1. The average rating indicates there’s room for improvement in certain aspects of the tour.

2. The variety of reviews may stem from differences in individual preferences and expectations.

3. Prospective travelers should carefully read the reviews to identify the tour’s strengths and weaknesses before booking.

Additional Information

Confirmation of booking is provided upon completion of the reservation process.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible. Guests can reach the meeting point via public transportation, and infant seats are available.

Cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, and the "reserve now, pay later" option is offered.

The tour is near public transportation, and the company ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants.

With these additional details, travelers can make an informed decision and plan their visit to the Princess Islands accordingly.

Tour Provider Details

The tour is provided by Sultanahmet Old City Travel Turizm Organizasyon, a company located in Istanbul, Turkey.

They offer this Princess Islands tour with a few key advantages:

1. Experienced local guides who provide historical insights during the trip.
2. Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off service for guests staying in central Istanbul.
3. Flexibility in booking, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

With 11 reviews and a 3.5-star rating, the company seems to deliver a satisfactory tour experience.

Guests can expect a well-organized outing to the car-free Princess Islands, complete with a scenic boat ride and a delicious four-course lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no formal dress code for this tour. Comfortable, casual clothing is recommended, as you’ll be spending time outdoors and on a boat. Wear lightweight, breathable fabrics and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

According to the tour details, bringing one’s own food and drinks is not explicitly mentioned. However, as this is a group tour with a provided lunch, it’s likely that outside food and drinks are not permitted. Guests should check with the tour provider for any policies on this.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour provider doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration. The tour has a fixed schedule starting at 8:30 AM and includes a set itinerary with activities like a scenic ferry ride, lunch, and island exploration.

Can I Book a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, the tour operator offers private tours as an alternative to the group tour. Travelers can book a private tour to have a more personalized experience and flexibility in the itinerary. Prices may vary for the private option.

How Accessible Are the Islands for People With Limited Mobility?

The islands have limited vehicle access, so mobility may be challenging for those with limited mobility. However, many areas are accessible by foot or wheelchair, and tour providers can accommodate guests with special needs if arranged in advance.

The Sum Up

The Princess Islands Tour offers a delightful escape from the bustling city of Istanbul. Guests can enjoy a scenic ferry ride, explore the car-free islands, and savor a four-course lunch made with seasonal ingredients. With a personalized experience and knowledgeable local guides, the tour provides an opportunity to take in the beauty and history of the Bosphorus Strait and the peaceful island life.