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Princes’ Islands tours & tickets
4.3(3K Ratings)
Select Your Experience
- Your boarding point is at Kabatas Pier. There will be a Marine Officer there who will welcome you, give you the cruise plan, and brief you on your journey.
- Make your way to Büyükada, or 'Big Island,' an island that has no vehicles other than emergency transportation, bicycles, or carriages.
- Explore the ruins of Trotsky’s house, St. George’s Church, and a 19th-century pharmacy.
- Listen to the Bosphorus audio guide on your own smartphone, available in 10 languages.
Inclusions
- Round-trip ticket to the Princes' Island
- Fast-track entry on the boat from the online ticket window
- Bosphorus audio guide app for IOS and Android in 10 languages
- Tip: The Princes' Islands offer breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding landscape, so be sure to take your time and enjoy the scenery!
- The audio guide is available in the following languages: English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, Arabic, and Chinese.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Hop on a boat ride from Istanbul port to the serene islands of Büyükada and Kınalıada and enjoy a guided tour with a delicious buffet lunch.
- Sit back and relax as you enjoy hotel transfers too.
- Take a walking tour of Kınalıada with a professional guide as you marvel at the beauty around you.
- Ride electric scooters or bikes at Büyükada, the largest of the nine islands, to see the old-world mansions with their typical balconies.
- Relax on the serene beaches of Büyükada or take an energizing swim in the azure blue waters of the Marmara Sea.
Inclusions
- Hotel transfers
- Boat trip
- Professional tour guide
- Buffet lunch
Exclusions
- Drinks
- Optional electric vehicle (to be paid on location)
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
- Tip: The best time to visit Princes’ Islands is between April and October to beat the crowds.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Set sail from the serene shores of Golden Horn, on a private boat from Istanbul, and head towards Heybeliada, the first of 2 islands.
- An expert tour guide will accompany you, giving you deeper insight into the islands visited and their historic relevance to Istanbul.
- At Heybeliada, gasp at narrow (and relatively deserted) beaches, massive pine forests, and iconic 19th-century villas.
- Finally, visit Büyükada, the larger of the 2 islands, which is also the most crowded and popular (for good reason).
- Spot Ottoman-Victorian mansions, and learn about princes of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires who once relaxed on these islands.
- A 2-course luncheon will be served on the private boat, comprising of chicken Shish kebabs, cold appetizers, rice, and salad.
- Round-trip hotel transfers are available, provided your hotel is centrally located in Istanbul.
Inclusions
- Boat trip
- Expert English-speaking tour guide
- Entrance fees to islands
- 2-course open buffet lunch
- Hotel transfers (from the European side & centrally-located hotels only)
- Transportation in an air-conditioned bus
Exclusions
- Drinks at lunch
- Bike rental (optional)
- Electric Buggy ticket (available to purchase)
- Tips
- Facilities: Pram/Stroller Accessibility and Guide Dog Accommodation.
- The hotel pickup and drop-off services are applicable for centrally-located hotels alone.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Why visit the Princes’ Islands?
- Scenic beauty: The Princes’ Islands offer beautiful beaches, lush greenery, and crystal-clear waters. They are a nature lover’s paradise. Whether it is biking along scenic paths, taking a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride, or swimming in the clear waters, the Princes’ Islands also offer a range of outdoor activities for all ages.
- Rich history: Each of the nine islands has a unique history, with traces of Byzantine and Ottoman influence. You can explore historic sites, churches, and charming villages that reflect the Princes’ Islands’ cultural heritage.
- Serene atmosphere: The Princes’ Islands offer a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul. With no cars allowed, these islands provide a peaceful environment to unwind and recharge.
- Delicious local cuisine: When exploring the Princes’ Islands, make sure to sample their local Turkish delicacies. Choose eateries and restaurants with a sea view for an even more memorable experience.
Which Princes’ Islands tour is best for you?
If you are short on time or are on a budget
Go for: Fast track tickets
Duration: Flexible
Guide: Bosphorus audio guide in over 10 languages
- These fast-track tour tickets include round-trip ferry transfers to and from Buyukada Island, allowing you to make the most of your visit. You can visit the ruins of Trotsky’s Home, St. George’s Church, and a 19th-century pharmacy.
- The audio guide will allow you to learn about the islands’ fascinating history and local culture.
Recommended Tours:
If you want to explore in-depth
Go for: Full-day guided tour tickets
Duration: 9 hours
Guide: Expert English-speaking tour guide
- These full-day tour tickets are perfect for a day out at the Princes’ Islands. They include a boat trip, transfers to and from the islands, and a 2-course open buffet lunch.
- Listen to their expert English-speaking tour guide and learn more about the rich history and vehicle-free lifestyle of the Princes’ Islands.
Recommended Tours:
If you are a food enthusiast
Go for: Guided tours with lunch options & transfers
Duration: 6 hours
Guide: Professional tour guide
- This ticket is best for visitors who want to indulge in the delicious local Turkish cuisine while experiencing the tranquil atmosphere of the Princes’ Islands.
- With this ticket, you can also take advantage of the hotel transfers and their professional tour guide to have a more enjoyable experience.
Recommended Tours:
Flexible cancellation policy
You can cancel these tour tickets up to 24 to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund on your purchase.
The Princes’ Islands & their highlights
Buyukada
Also known as the ‘Big Island’, Buyukada features the Aya Yorgi Church, known for its panoramic views. You can also spot splendid Victorian-era mansions, wooden houses, and horse-drawn carriages on this island. Go to the Nizam beach to relax by the sea.
Heybeliada
Heybeliada also offers pristine waters and lush greenery. The Halki Seminary is a renowned theological school with impressive architecture. You can also visit the Hagia Triada Monastery and swim on beaches like Degirmenburnu and Nakibey.
Burgazada
Also known as Antigoni Island, Burgazada is known for its historic sites. Make sure to visit the Kalpazankaya and Aya Yani Church while exploring. You can relax and unwind away from the hustle-bustle of city life on beaches like the Burgaz Ada Plaji.
Kinaliada
Explore the grand wooden structure of the Kinaliada Greek Orthodox Orphanage. Most of these islands offer beaches and have a rustic, historic charm. On Kinaliada, you can swim on beaches like the Kinaliada Beach or the Surreya Beach.
Sedef & Yassiada
Also known as the Mother of Pearl Island, Sedef Island is the perfect destination for a quiet day of swimming and sunbathing. You can explore historical remains at Yassiada, the site of the infamous Princes’ Islands exile.
Maltepe
Home to the popular Maltepe Water Park, this island is perfect for nature lovers. They offer tons of green spaces and nature trails, which are ideal for those seeking a stroll with beautiful sea views.
Plan your visit to the Princes’ Islands
Best time to visit
Getting around
Visitor tips
Eat
Stay
Spring & Autumn: The mild spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months are the best time to visit the Princes’ Islands. The weather is pleasant, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. These seasons are also great for nature enthusiasts. In autumn, you'll find blooming flowers in spring and colorful foliage, making for excellent hiking and sightseeing.
Summer: While the water is warmer from June to September and ideal for swimming and water activities, the islands can become quite crowded, especially on weekends. Outdoor cafes and restaurants are open during the summer season, allowing you to dine with sea views, and enjoy fresh seafood and local cuisine.
- Walking: Walking is the primary mode of transportation on the Princes' Islands, especially on Buyukada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kinaliada. The islands have well-maintained paths and roads, making it easy to explore on foot.
- Biking: Renting a bicycle is a popular way to get around, and you'll find bike rental shops near ferry terminals. Make sure to explore Buyukada's ‘Phaeton Road,’ a dedicated route for horse-drawn carriages and cyclists.
- Phaetons: On Buyukada and Heybeliada, you can take a traditional horse-drawn carriage, also called Phaetons, to explore the islands.
- Electric buggies: Some islands, like Buyukada, have introduced electric buggies as an eco-friendly alternative to horse-drawn carriages. These can be a comfortable way to tour the island, especially if you have limited mobility.
- Local ferries: To hop between the Princes’ Islands, you can use the regular local ferries that connect the larger islands. These ferries are an affordable way to explore multiple islands in a single day.
- Carry cash: It is best to carry some Turkish Lira in cash since most eateries and establishments in the remote areas of the Princes’ Islands do not accept card payments.
- Check for local events: Before visiting the Princes’ Islands, to plan your itinerary well. Check for local events or festivals happening during your visit, as they can provide unique cultural experiences.
- Check for restaurant opening hours: When exploring the Princes’ Islands, make sure to check restaurant timings in advance, as some of them remain closed during the afternoon.
- Invest in a language app: We recommend you learn a few basic Turkish phrases or have a translation app handy, as English may not be widely spoken in some areas.
- Respect local customs: When visiting religious sites within the Islands, cover your knees and shoulders. Be mindful of local etiquette and customs when exploring the Islands.
- Secret Garden Restaurant: Seafood, Mediterranean, and European cuisine with vegetarian, halal, and gluten-free options
- Balikci Suleyman: Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine with vegetarian and gluten-free options
- Yucetepe Kir Gazinosu: Turkish cuisine with vegetarian and halal options
- Ada Kahvalti: Cafe food and Turkish cuisine with vegetarian options
- Eskibag- Teras Restaurant: Seafood, Mediterranean, and Turkish cuisine with vegetarian options
- Barbayani Restaurant: Yunnan cuisine with vegetarian options
- Budget-Friendly Stays:
Ada Antik Hotel
Manzara Ada Tepe
Buyukada Mavi Palas Hotel - Mid-Range Hotels:
Nizam Butik Otel Buyukada
Mavi Palas Hotel
Mimoza Butik Otel Buyukada - Luxury Stays:
Serguzest Otel
Asiklar Butik Otel
Buyukada Anastasia Meziki History Mansion
Explore beyond the Princes’ Islands
Hagia Sophia
Located in the heart of Istanbul, the Hagia Sophia is a testament to Byzantine and Ottoman history. Originally built as an orthodox church, it then served as a mosque, a museum, and is now a mosque again today.
Visit Hagia Sophia
Topkapi Palace
Built in the mid-15th century, the magnificent Topkapi Palace served as the primary residence of Ottoman sultans for hundreds of years. Today, it houses a treasure trove of artifacts, including jewellery, robes, and weaponry.
Explore Topkapi Palace
Basilica Cistern
Below the bustling streets of Istanbul lies the Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir. You can stroll around its columns and observe its infamous Medusa Heads.
Visit Basilica Cistern
Dolmabahce Palace
Nestled along the Bosphorus Strait, Dolmabahce Palace is known for its Neo-classical architecture and lavish interiors. It once functioned as the official administrative center for the Ottoman Empire.
Explore Dolmabahce PalaceFrequently asked questions about Princes’ Islands tours
How much does a Princes’ Islands tour ticket cost?
Princes' Islands tours start from €12. You can choose a tour with an audio guide in over 10 languages or with an expert English-speaking guide to explore the islands. Depending on the tour you choose, they also include round-trip ferry transfers and fast-track entry into the island.
How do I book tickets for Princes’ Islands tours?
We recommend you purchase your Princes' Islands tours online to enjoy fast-track access and save time and money. Online ticket bookings ensure that your spot is reserved upon payment confirmation and you do not have to wait in long lines on the day of your tour.
Why should I book Princes’ Islands tours online?
It is best to book Princes' Islands tours online. It is convenient and also saves time and money. If you purchase your tickets online in advance, you no longer have to worry about the logistics and transportation and can have a relaxing touring experience.
What do Princes’ Islands tours include?
Most Princes' Islands tours offer fast-track access to the Islands, hotel transfers, and either an audio guide in over 10 languages or an English-speaking tour guide.
Are discounts available on Princes’ Islands tours?
Yes, you can enjoy discounts and great offers on Princes’ Island tours if you book them online.
What is the cancellation policy for Princes’ Islands tours?
If you book Princes’ Islands tours online, you can cancel these tickets up to 24 to 48 hours before the experience begins to get a full refund on your purchase.
How long does it take to explore the Princes’ Islands?
If you have a few hours handy and want to explore the Princes’ Islands in-depth, you can choose the Full-day Tour of Princes' Islands. They include an expert, English-speaking tour guide, a 2-course open buffet lunch, hotel transfers, and transportation in an air-conditioned bus, and run for around 9 hours. You can also opt for the shorter 6-hour Princes' Islands Cruise with Buffet lunch & transfers, which is a guided tour.