Just a short hop from Istanbul, out on the waters of the Sea of Marmara, a pine-scented world free of traffic noise is waiting for you: the Princes’ Islands. With their historic mansions, quiet shores and an atmosphere that sometimes feels frozen in time, the islands are the perfect day trip for anyone looking to escape the rush of the city. Whether it’s your first time in Istanbul or you’ve lived here for years, a ride around Büyükada or a stroll along the shore of Heybeliada is always refreshing. In this guide, we’ve gathered everything you need to make the most of a day on the islands, from how to get there to what to eat.
How to get to the Princes’ Islands
The most enjoyable way to reach the islands is by ferry. On the European side, regular services depart from Eminönü and Kabataş, while on the Asian side they leave from Kadıköy and Bostancı. Depending on where you start, the journey takes between 40 minutes and an hour and a half, and the sea views put you in a holiday mood before you even arrive.
If you’d rather travel faster, sea buses are a good alternative. Services run more frequently in summer, but setting off early, especially on weekends, is a smart way to avoid the crowds. It’s also worth noting the last return ferry times in advance so you can plan your day with ease.
Büyükada: historic mansions, cycling and electric tours
The largest and liveliest of the islands, Büyükada is an ideal starting point for first-time visitors. The moment you step off the pier, you’re greeted by wooden mansions, elegant villas from another era and narrow, sea-scented streets. The island practically invites you to slow your pace.
The best way to explore is to rent a bicycle or join one of the electric vehicle tours. As you climb toward the hills, the view opens up; from around the Aya Yorgi Church you can take in the whole of the Marmara. Take your time and pause at the small cafés along the way for a well-earned break.
If you feel like a swim, the island’s beaches are clean and inviting. Bring a towel, spend the afternoon in a quiet cove, and head back toward the pier as the sun begins to set.
Heybeliada and the quieter islands
For those who want to get a little further from the crowds, Heybeliada is ideal. With its pine forests, calm shore road and historic naval college, the island is perfect for a peaceful walk. As you stroll along the waterfront, the sea and the pines blend into a soothing landscape.
If you’re after an even quieter day, consider Burgazada and Kınalıada. These smaller islands are wonderful for seeing local life as it really is and disconnecting completely from the tourist bustle. Each island has its own rhythm, so visiting a few in one trip is a lovely way to discover their differences.
Island cuisine: what and where to eat
Fresh seafood is a must on any island visit. At the fish restaurants around the pier, you can start with a spread of mezes and continue with the catch of the day. Eating slowly at a table with a sea view is one of the greatest pleasures the islands offer.
If you’d prefer something lighter, the islands’ ice cream parlors and patisseries are famous. Grabbing a scoop of ice cream for a walk along the shore, or watching the view over a glass of tea, is the perfect sweet pause to round off the day.
Getting around Istanbul and reaching the pier with ease
The joy of an island trip is directly tied to starting the day without stress. Reaching the ferry pier on time and comfortably makes a real difference, especially if you’re arriving with luggage or straight off a flight. A comfortable transfer from the airport directly to the pier or your hotel makes the rest of the day far more pleasant.
For smooth point-to-point travel within the city or a meet-and-greet at the airport, you can arrange a private chauffeur transfer at kemptransfer.com. That way, instead of juggling public-transport connections, you board the ferry rested and enjoy the islands to the fullest.