Princes’ Islands are Istanbulites' first choice for getting away from the city's crowding and traffic, as well as swimming in the turquoise waters. It is a collection of nine islands – just four of them inhabited. These are Büyükada, Heybeliada, Kınalıada, and Burgazada.
Let's learn more about Princes’ Islands in İstanbul, one of the first recommendations on travel blogs.
A Day Trip to Princes’ Islands from İstanbul
Known in Turkish as “Adalar”, Princes' Islands is where Byzantine Emperors and Ottoman Sultans banished bothersome princes and political foes into exile. Regardless of its sad history, it is now a destination of serenity, relaxation, and leisure.
The islands are car-free. Instead of waking up to the chaotic traffic noises, you wake up to birdsong and a gentle wind. This alone will bring you serenity here. Locals get around the islands on electric scooters and golf buggies, while tourists can rent bicycles, take the electric bus, or walk.
Since they have welcomed many other cultures during their great history, there is a multicultural environment. Their historical architecture additionally displays this diversity. There are dozens of structures and locations to visit in each of them.
And of course, the islands are perfect in summer. Locals and visitors go to the sandy beaches, enjoy the sunshine, soak up the scenery, and embrace a uniquely multicultural air. There is no rush on these islands, just tranquility. As mentioned above, only four of the islands are inhabited. Each island has its unique aura, historical texture, and a list of must-see attractions. Let's get to know them better;
Büyükada
Büyükada Island in İstanbul is the largest and most visited of the Princes' Islands. Büyükada is divided into two parts: Nizam and Maden. While there are more mansions on Maden's side, Nizam has more dining options.
The most visited points are Yücetepe and Manastır Hill, Aya Yorgi Church, Islands Museum, Büyükada Greek Orphanage, Reşat Nuri Güntekin's House, and Fabiato Mansion. Going up to Aya Yorgi is a fantastic option for those who want to be intertwined with the beautiful nature of Büyükada. From here, you can also enjoy the magnificent scenery of the entire island and İstanbul.
Summertime in İstanbul means spending time by Büyükada’s beaches, among the cleanest Adalar İstanbul beaches on the Marmara Sea. There are many but the most preferred ones are Eskibağ Beach, Halik Bay, Aya Nicola Beach, and Princess Bay.
Heybeliada
Heybeliada is the second largest island of the Princes' Islands. The island's weather is always pleasant, and there are numerous places to go. We recommend touring Heybeliada with your bike to experience the essence of island life. Cycling around the island allows you to explore its historical texture up close, taste wonderful island cuisine on the seaside, and take in the breathtaking views from the hilltop viewpoints.
Heybeliada is the perfect summer location due to its stunning beaches, which allow you to tan and swim as much as you want. The most preferred ones are Değirmenburnu Beach, Çam Limanı Beach, Alman Bay Beach, Akvaryum Beach, Ada Beach Club, Asaf Family Beach, and Cevahir Aqua Heybeliada.
Kınalıada
Being the nearest to İstanbul, Kınalıada is the smallest of Princes’ islands. Its soil is rich in minerals and stones but unfortunately poor in trees, though don't let that betray you; it has its appealing aura.
There are plenty of free public beaches on the island, as well as reasonably priced private beaches. They offer a variety of amenities, such as bathrooms, showers, umbrellas, and sun loungers. The most popular beaches are Kınalıada Public Beach, Kumluk Beach, Teos Beach, and Ülker Public Beach.
Burgazada
Burgazada's population increases from an average of 1.500 in the winter to 15.000 in the summer. Of course, its summertime becomes much more lively with visitors. The island is a popular sea-sand-sun holiday destination and is preferred for permanent residence as well.
The popular spots on the island are Aya Yani Church, Madam Marta Bay, Aya Yorgi Monastery, the Museum of the famous Turkish writer Sait Faik, Bayrak Hill, and Hristos Monastery. You can easily climb Bayrak Hill, the only hill on the island, by bike or on foot, or go to the beaches and bays to cool off.
Burgazada Public Beach, Madam Marta Bay, Mimi Bay, and Düşler Sahili Beach are some of the most visited swimming spots here.
What to Eat in Princes’ Islands
The magnificent smell of the sea and trees on the islands will whet your appetite. We recommend that you start your trip with a delicious island breakfast. Breakfast in the gardens of antique island mansions, having adorable tables and trees with amazing flowers, will offer you a nice start to your day. Make sure your breakfast includes local cheeses, acuka, and milk jam.
There are many options for lunch and dinner, but seafood cuisine would be particularly appealing. On the Princes’ Islands, you may try fresh seafood such as lakers, squid, and octopus.
The islands are known for their ice cream delicacies. Relax by enjoying a walk on the beach with your delicious ice cream for an unforgettable experience.
How to Get to Princes’ Islands from İstanbul
You can easily reach Kınalıada, Burgazada, Heybeliada, and Büyükada with the ferries, operated by Şehir Hatları, departing from Kabataş, Kadıköy, Eminönü, Bostancı and Maltepe. These ferries also allow you to travel between the islands. There are both weekend and weekday trips. The ferry trip takes a maximum of 1 hour.
You can use these ferries with Istanbulkart. Check out our How to Use an Istanbulkart: Everything You Need to Know page to learn how to get the card.
