Tour Overview
Escape the busy streets of the city and embark on a relaxing Princes’ Island tour. The Princes' Islands (Adalar) are a chain of nine small islands in the Sea of Marmara, famous for their silence, pine forests, and Victorian-era wooden mansions.
This Istanbul day tour takes you to the largest and most famous island, Buyukada. Since motor vehicles are restricted on the island, you will feel like you’ve traveled back in time. It is a must-do experience for anyone interested in Turkey tourism and history, offering a peaceful retreat with stunning sea views.
🌟 Tour Highlights
- Scenic Ferry Ride across the Sea of Marmara
- Visit to Buyukada (The Big Island)
- Electric Bus Tour around the island
- Delicious Lunch at a local fish restaurant
- Free time for shopping, walking, or ice cream
- See Historical Ottoman Mansions & Greek Churches
📸 Tour Gallery
Experience the beauty of the Marmara Sea and historic island architecture.
📅 Detailed Itinerary
08:30 – 09:15
Hotel Pickup
We collect you from central hotels in Sultanahmet or Taksim and drive to the port.
09:30
Ferry Ride
Board the boat for a relaxing 1-hour cruise. Enjoy views of the Topkapi Palace, Maiden's Tower, and the Asian side of Istanbul from the water.
10:45
Arrival at Buyukada
Arrive at the most popular Buyukada tour destination. Your guide will give you a brief history of the island.
11:15
Island Tour (Electric Bus)
Take a guided tour around the island on eco-friendly electric buses (phaetons are no longer used). See the beautiful wooden mansions and pine forests.
13:00
Seafood Lunch
Enjoy a set menu lunch at a seaside restaurant. Options usually include fresh seasonal fish, chicken, or meatballs with salad.
14:30
Free Time
Explore the local bazaar, buy famous Turkish ice cream, or rent a bicycle on your own.
17:00
Return
Ferry ride back to Istanbul and transfer to your hotel.
📋 Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Hotel Pickup & Drop-off
- Round-trip Ferry Tickets
- English Speaking Tour Guide
- Lunch (Set Menu)
- Electric Bus Tour Ticket
Excluded
- Drinks at lunch
- Personal expenses (Bicycle rental, etc.)
- Tips for the guide/driver
🚐 Free Pickup Information
We provide complimentary pickup service from city center hotels in the following areas:
Sultanahmet
Taksim
Beyoğlu
Karaköy
Şişli
❤️ Why Choose This Tour?
Unlike crowded public ferries, we organize the entire day for you. You get a dedicated guide, reserved lunch spots, and hassle-free transportation, allowing you to simply relax and enjoy the sea breeze.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the Princes’ Island tour is very family-friendly. Kids love the ferry ride and the electric bus tour.
2. Are there horse carriages on the island?
No, horse-drawn carriages (phaetons) were banned to protect the animals. They have been replaced by silent, eco-friendly electric buses.
3. Can we swim during the tour?
This is primarily a sightseeing tour. While there are beaches on Buyukada, the standard itinerary usually does not include enough time for a full swimming session unless you skip the guided part during free time.
4. What happens if the weather is bad?
Ferries are subject to weather conditions. If ferries are cancelled due to storms, we will offer a full refund or reschedule your tour to the next available day.
5. Is lunch vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, the set menu usually offers a vegetarian option (pasta or casserole) and plenty of salad/appetizers.
