Istanbul: Princes Islands Tour with Hotel Transfer and Lunch
Cruise the Sea of Marmara and discover the timeless calm of Buyukada and Heybeliada.
The Princes Islands Istanbul tour offers a rare opportunity to step away from the city's intensity and experience the unhurried rhythm of island life just a short boat ride from the historic peninsula. You will visit multiple islands, enjoy a guided seafood lunch, and return to your hotel without the logistics of arranging transport yourself.
Departing from your central Istanbul hotel by air-conditioned coach, you are taken to Eminönü port, where the journey across the Sea of Marmara begins. Along the way, your guide provides live commentary on landmarks such as Galata Bridge, Topkapi Palace, and the Maiden's Tower as they come into view from the water.
Büyükada, the largest of the Princes' Islands, was historically used as a place of exile for members of the Ottoman aristocracy and later for political figures. Cars are not permitted on the island, meaning donkey carts and bicycles remain the primary forms of transport, preserving an atmosphere that feels genuinely removed from the modern city.
After exploring Heybeliada with free time to wander at your own pace, the group reconvenes for a included lunch featuring local seafood. The afternoon on Büyükada is yours to use as you wish, whether that means swimming, visiting a coastal café, or simply sitting in the shade near the waterfront.
Tour Highlights
Cruise across the Sea of Marmara with scenic views of Istanbul's historic skyline from the water.
Pass by iconic landmarks including Topkapi Palace and the Maiden's Tower during your boat journey.
Visit four Princes' Islands including Kinalı, Burgaz, Heybeliada, and the main destination of Büyükada.
Learn the layered history of the islands as a place of exile for Ottoman aristocrats and later political exiles.
Enjoy a included seafood lunch at a local restaurant before spending the afternoon exploring freely.
Experience car-free island streets where horse-drawn carriages and bicycles define the pace of daily life.
Hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned coach is included, removing any need for independent transfers.
Itinerary
Your guide meets you at your central Istanbul hotel. You board an air-conditioned coach for the transfer to Eminönü port, the main ferry departure point on the Golden Horn.
The boat departs from Eminönü and passes under Galata Bridge. Your guide provides commentary on Topkapi Palace and the Maiden's Tower as they appear along the shoreline.
The first island stop is Heybeliada, where you have approximately three hours of free time to explore the pine-covered hills, local cafés, and quiet waterfront lanes at your own pace.
The group gathers for an included lunch at a local restaurant. The meal features traditional Turkish seafood dishes typical of the Marmara region.
On the largest Princes' Island, your guide covers the history of Büyükada including its role as a place of exile. The afternoon is free for swimming, shopping at craft stores, or relaxing at a waterfront café.
At the agreed meeting time, the group boards the return boat to Istanbul. Once back at Eminönü, the coach transfers everyone to their respective hotels.
What Is Included
Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned coach
- Boat tickets for the Princes' Islands cruise
- Professional licensed tour guide throughout the day
- Seafood lunch at a local restaurant
- Visit to Heybeliada and Büyükada with free time on both
- Scenic passage past Galata Bridge, Topkapi Palace, and the Maiden's Tower
Not Included
- Personal expenses and optional purchases
- Gratuities for the guide or driver
- Drinks not specified in the included meal
- Activities during free time on the islands
- Travel insurance
Important Information
Reserve Your Spot on the Princes Islands Tour
Secure your place on this full-day guided island escape from Istanbul, complete with hotel transfer, boat cruise, guided commentary, and a seafood lunch included.
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