Swap the city roar for pine-scented lanes and Ottoman villas on a full-day tour to the Princes' Islands. Travel by ferry, explore Heybeliada and Büyükada, enjoy a seafood lunch on board, and pick a seaside café or beach for the afternoon.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step onto the ferry as Istanbul recedes — the Bosphorus opens into the Marmara, gulls challenge the wake, and the city’s silhouette pulls back like a curtain. Within an hour the crowd thins and the islands appear: pine-wooded slopes, faded wooden mansions, and car-free lanes where electric vehicles hum and horses used to tread.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most travellers; requires 1–3 miles of walking on uneven paths and short stair/grade sections
Wildlife
History
The islands were favored summer residences for Byzantine and Ottoman elites and later became mixed Greek-Turkish communities; many wooden mansions date to the 19th century.
Conservation
Adalar’s car restrictions help limit pollution; visitors should stick to marked paths, avoid littering beaches, and support local businesses that follow sustainable practices.
Reserve your spot on the Full-Day Princes Island Tour with Lunch from Istanbul today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Ferry boarding can be orderly but tight—arrive at the Unkapanı meeting point 15 minutes early to secure seats and avoid standing on deck.
Layer for the Crossing
Sea breezes on the Marmara can be cool even in summer—bring a light windbreaker or fleece for the ferry ride.
Comfortable Footwear
Paved roads give way to cobblestones and packed dirt; wear supportive shoes for short climbs and uneven surfaces on Büyükada and Heybeliada.
Cash for Small Purchases
Some cafes and craft shops on the islands prefer cash or small bills—carry local currency for souvenirs and seaside snacks.
Comfortable walking shoes
Support on cobbles and short uphill sections makes walking more enjoyable.
Light windbreaker
Cuts the wind on the ferry and shaded trails in spring and cooler evenings.
spring
Swimwear & quick-dry towel
Bring if you plan to swim from a jetty or pebble beach after lunch.
summer
Sunscreen and hat
Open decks and exposed shores mean sun protection is essential in warm months.
summer