The Princes’ Islands are a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul, offering a car-free environment, scenic bike rides, and charming Ottoman-era mansions.
Located in the Marmara Sea, this archipelago of nine islands is known for its beautiful nature, historic sites, and relaxed seaside atmosphere.
Only four islands are open to visitors:
✔️ Büyükada – The largest and most popular island.
✔️ Heybeliada – Known for its green hills and historical sites.
✔️ Burgazada – A quiet island with a small-town feel.
✔️ Kınalıada – The closest island, popular with locals.
Whether you want to ride a bike through pine-covered roads, swim in hidden coves, or enjoy a seafood meal by the sea, the Princes’ Islands are a must-visit while in Istanbul.
Why Visit the Princes’ Islands?
✔️ Car-free paradise – Enjoy peaceful, traffic-free streets with only bicycles and electric vehicles.
✔️ Historic mansions – Stroll past charming Ottoman-era wooden houses.
✔️ Scenic ferry ride – Experience a beautiful journey across the Marmara Sea.
✔️ Outdoor activities – Rent a bike, hike, or swim at hidden beaches.
✔️ Delicious seafood – Try fresh fish at cozy seaside restaurants.
Best Things to Do on the Princes’ Islands
Princes’ Islands is a favorite weekend destination for Istanbulites, especially during the summer, to enjoy the beach and other activities. Guests visit the islands to explore and appreciate the islands’ natural beauty, electric car excursions, seafood restaurants, and hiking and swimming possibilities.
On weekends, the islands resemble a carnival with happy crowds. Keep in mind that if you wish to visit the islands on a tranquil and uncrowded day, you should plan your day excursion to Princes’ Islands during the week or in the spring or fall seasons.
Automobiles are not permitted on the island, making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking a calm day and night out. Electric cars may be used to navigate the island, or you can hire a bike and explore the island independently.
Explore Büyükada: The Largest & Most Popular Island 🚲
Büyükada is the most famous island and a favorite among visitors. With its historical sites, beautiful beaches, and lively streets, it’s the best island to explore for a full-day trip.
🏡 Top Things to See on Büyükada:
✔️ Aya Yorgi Church & Hill – A historic Greek Orthodox monastery offering stunning panoramic views.
✔️ Prinkipo Greek Orphanage – One of the largest wooden buildings in the world.
✔️ Clock Square (Saat Meydanı) – The busiest area, filled with cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
✔️ Dilburnu Nature Park – A peaceful forested area perfect for a picnic.
🚲 How to Get Around: The best way to explore Büyükada is by renting a bicycle or walking.
Touring in Electric Vehicles
One of the most popular attractions is riding an electric car around the Princes’ islands. You will appreciate the natural beauty of the islands and the views of Istanbul.
After the old horse-drawn carriage transportation was banned, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of horses, electric vehicle services began throughout the whole Princes’ Islands in August 2020.
Tour by Bike
One of the most popular activities is biking around the Princes’ islands. You’ll appreciate the stunning countryside, wooden homes, gardens, and views of Istanbul. You may simply rent a bike and go on a 2-hour island tour.
Aya Yorgi Church & the Hilltop
The most visited attraction on the Princes’ Islands is the Aya Yorgi Church (the Church of St. George). This Orthodox church, located on the highest peak of the Buyukada, is a really rare and quiet spot. The church was constructed in 1905.
The Aya Yorgi Church is also well-known for people putting their wishes on paper and placing them in a box or burning candles for their desires. Of course, these are seen in every church around the world. Meanwhile, the Aya Yorgi Church has unique days on which it is thought that if you visit the church on April 23rd and September 24th, your desires will be granted, and you will be healed. If the wishes come true, tourists will return to the church with sugar and olive oil.
A nice restaurant with amazing views of the coastlines and the city is also located near the Aya Yorgi Church. Make the most of your time here by eating, drinking, and taking photographs.
Visit Heybeliada: The Greenest Island 🌳
Heybeliada is the second-largest island, famous for its lush forests, historic landmarks, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s less crowded than Büyükada and ideal for nature lovers.
🌿 Best Things to Do on Heybeliada:
✔️ Halki Seminary – A historic Orthodox theological school with breathtaking views.
✔️ Heybeliada Beach Clubs – Enjoy a swim at Ada Beach or Akvaryum Bay.
✔️ Değirmenburnu Park – A tranquil picnic spot with pine trees and sea views.
🚲 How to Get Around: Rent a bike or take a leisurely walk along the scenic coastline.
Discover Burgazada: A Hidden Gem 🌊
Burgazada is smaller and quieter, making it perfect for travelers looking for a relaxing escape. It’s known for beautiful stone streets, stunning sea views, and a rich Greek heritage.
🏝 What to See on Burgazada:
✔️ Sait Faik Abasıyanık Museum – A museum dedicated to one of Turkey’s most famous writers.
✔️ Kalpazankaya Hill – A secluded spot with amazing sunset views.
✔️ Burgazada Beaches – The clearest water on the islands, great for swimming.
🚲 How to Get Around: The island is small enough to explore on foot.
Discover Kinaliada
The smallest of the Princes’ Islands is Kinaliada. You can walk the entire island in 20-25 minutes. Kinaliada’s main attractions and sites include:
- Walking or biking tour around the island.
- Take in the landscape of Cinar, Tesvikiye, and Hristo hills.
- Visit the ancient Hristo Monastery and Church.
- Take advantage of the beaches.
- Dine at the beach restaurants.
Swim & Sunbathe at the Best Beaches 🏖
The Princes’ Islands have hidden coves and beaches where you can swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Marmara Sea.
🏊 Best Beaches on the Princes’ Islands:
✔️ Naki Bey Beach (Büyükada) – A private beach with sun loungers and a relaxed vibe.
✔️ Yörükali Beach (Büyükada) – A secluded sandy beach, ideal for families.
✔️ Ada Beach Club (Heybeliada) – A lively beach with water sports and a bar.
💡 Tip: Most beaches charge an entrance fee, so bring cash or a credit card.
Best Restaurants on the Princes’ Islands 🍽
The islands are famous for fresh seafood, mezes, and local delicacies.
🥂 Where to Eat:
✔️ Milto (Büyükada) – A historic seafood restaurant with stunning sea views.
✔️ Heyamola (Heybeliada) – Known for delicious grilled fish and mezes.
✔️ Fıstık Ahmet’in Yeri (Burgazada) – A local favorite for Turkish breakfast and seafood.
💡 Tip: Try rakı (anise-flavored drink) with fresh fish, a Turkish tradition.
How to Get to the Princes’ Islands?
🛳 By Ferry (Recommended!):
✔️ From Eminönü, Kabataş, Kadıköy, or Bostancı, take the Şehir Hatları ferries (public ferries).
✔️ Journey time: 1-1.5 hours, depending on the island.
✔️ Best ferry option: Take an early morning ferry to avoid crowds.
🚤 By Private Boat:
✔️ If you want a faster and more comfortable ride, hire a private boat from Bostancı or Beşiktaş.
💡 Tip: Check the ferry schedules, as they change seasonally.
Public Ferry Lines to the Princes’ Islands (Adalar)
The ferry docks at Besiktas, Kabatas, Eminonu, and Bostanci provide easy access to the Princes’ Islands.
Private Boats to the Princes’ Islands (Adalar)
Motorboats may readily reach the Princes’ Islands from Karakoy, Eminonu, and Kadikoy.
Round-trip ferry ticket to Princes’ Island and audio guide
The boat trip to the Princes’ Island, Buyukada, will take approximately 75 minutes. While on the Bosphorus, you may see Istanbul’s stunning skyline from the open-air deck.
Covers a round-trip ticket to Princes’ Islands, Fast track boat admission from the online ticket window, and Bosphorus audio tour app for IOS and Android in ten languages.
Is Visiting the Princes’ Islands Worth It?
Absolutely! The Princes’ Islands are a perfect escape from Istanbul’s busy streets. Whether you’re looking for nature, history, cycling, or a beach day, these car-free islands offer a peaceful getaway just a ferry ride away.
💡 Best for:
✔️ Couples & families – Great for a romantic getaway or a fun day with kids.
✔️ Nature lovers – Ideal for cycling, hiking, and enjoying green spaces.
✔️ History & culture enthusiasts – Discover Ottoman mansions and Greek heritage.
🌊 Have you visited the Princes’ Islands? Share your experience in the comments! 🚴♂️⛵
Tour Booking Advice
Insider Advice: Kickstart your Istanbul adventure with MegaPass Istanbul. This passes provides free access to many top attractions, tours and essential local services in the city with big savings.
