Daily Princes’ Islands Tour with Lunch from Istanbul

Exploring Istanbul’s Princes Islands: A Balanced Look at the Daily Tour with Lunch

If you’re craving a break from the hustle of Istanbul, a day trip to the Princes Islands offers a peaceful escape filled with stunning views and charming scenery. This tour, offered by Aljazeera Tour, combines a boat journey, leisure time on Büyükada—the largest of the islands—and a tasty buffet lunch onboard. It’s a popular choice among travelers looking for a mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and authentic island vibes.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the professional guides who speak both English and Arabic, ensuring clear communication for diverse groups. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy Istanbul’s skyline from the water adds a special touch. However, some travelers have noted that the boat can get crowded, especially on the upper deck, which might influence your comfort level during peak times.

This tour is ideal for those who want a hassle-free day out, appreciate scenic boat rides, and enjoy a structured itinerary that balances guided exploration with free time. It’s perfect for first-timers, family groups, or anyone wanting a straightforward way to experience the islands without the stress of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off (available only from city-center hotels on the European side).
• Approximately 90-minute boat ride offers breathtaking views of Istanbul and the Marmara Sea.
• Ample free time on Büyükada (about 2.5 hours) to explore, relax, or enjoy a casual lunch at your own pace.
• Delicious onboard buffet lunch with a soft drink included, perfect for recharging after sightseeing.
• Knowledgeable guides who speak both English and Arabic, providing clear and friendly commentary.
• All-in cost, including ferry tickets, lunch, taxes, and transfers, makes it a budget-friendly way to see the islands.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Pickup and Transfer

We appreciate that the tour starts early, with a 9:00 am departure, and includes a pick-up from select hotels in the Istanbul city center. This, of course, makes the whole process more convenient, especially after a restless night or a busy day exploring the city. The transfer to the port takes about 90 minutes, giving you some time to relax and prepare for the ride ahead.

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the ride, and the guides are known for being responsive and flexible—a real bonus if your plans change slightly or if you have special needs like vegetarian options.

The Boat Ride

Once at the port, you’ll board a boat for roughly 105 minutes across the Marmara Sea. The boat itself is described as well-maintained, with both upper and lower decks available. Reviewers mention that the upper deck tends to get crowded, especially in warmer months, and the air can become quite stuffy, so if you’re sensitive to heat or crowds, it’s wise to arrive early or opt for the shaded lower deck.

During the voyage, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Istanbul’s skyline and the Bosphorus, making it a memorable part of the journey. The calm waters and gentle sea breeze add to the relaxing atmosphere, and many travelers comment on how this boat ride alone is worth the trip.

Büyükada: Free Time and Exploration

Upon arrival at Büyükada, you’ll have approximately 2.5 hours to soak in the island’s charm. Reviewers describe the island as a peaceful oasis away from Istanbul’s frantic pace, with no cars allowed—only bicycles, horse-drawn carriages, and walking paths.

You can stroll along the quaint streets, admire the historic mansions, or simply relax at a café. The free time is enough for a leisurely walk or a quick snack, but not long enough to thoroughly explore every corner—so plan accordingly if you want to see more.

The Lunch on Board

Back on the boat, a buffet lunch awaits, featuring a variety of dishes and a soft drink. The quality of the meal is generally good for a tour lunch, and it’s a welcome refreshment after a busy morning. The included vegetarian options are noted, which is a thoughtful touch for different dietary needs.

The Return Journey and Final Drop-Off

After your island adventure, you’ll sail back to Istanbul, with another 105-minute boat ride, offering a different perspective of the city from the water. The whole experience wraps up with a 90-minute transfer back to your hotel or meeting point, making it a seamless, all-in-one day trip.

What Reviewers Say: Authentic Insights

One traveler mentioned that the guides are “kind and helpful,” adding that clear instructions and timely information made the experience smooth. Another reviewer pointed out that the boat was quite crowded, especially on the upper deck, which might be a consideration if you prefer more privacy or breeze.

The appeal of this tour, however, lies in its value for money. At just $42.50 per person, it includes ferry tickets, lunch, hotel transfers, and a guide—offering a budget-friendly way to visit the islands.

Things to Keep in Mind

• The tour operates from early spring through late autumn, with exceptions during Ramadan, May 1st, and January 1st.
• It is suitable for most travelers, but be prepared for possible crowding if you’re particular about space.
• A vegetarian lunch is available upon request, so remember to specify your dietary needs during booking.
• The maximum group size is 25 travelers, ensuring a relatively intimate experience.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for an easy, guided day trip that combines sightseeing, scenic boat rides, and a taste of island life, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suitable if you value guidance and structure, prefer not to worry about transportation logistics, and want to enjoy Istanbul from a different vantage point.

However, if you’re keen on a more in-depth exploration of Büyükada or prefer fewer crowds and more flexibility, you might consider extending your stay or choosing a private tour. The moderate free time means you’ll need to prioritize what interests you most during your island visit.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Princes’ Islands tour offers great value for a well-organized, scenic day out. The combination of comfortable transfers, a scenic boat ride, free time on Büyükada, and a tasty onboard lunch makes it an attractive option for many travelers. The knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with helpful commentary, and the overall flow is smooth and efficient.

For those seeking a balance of guided sightseeing and leisure, this tour provides just that. The views from the boat are a highlight, and the island’s peaceful vibe provides a much-needed breather from Istanbul’s energy. The only caveat is the potential crowding on the boat, which might slightly detract from comfort for some.

In sum, if you want a convenient, affordable way to experience the Princes Islands without planning every detail, this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly well-suited for first-time visitors, families, and anyone eager to see a different side of Istanbul—one filled with charm, tranquility, and stunning sea vistas.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are offered only from hotels in the city center on the European side of Istanbul, making it convenient for most central locations.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including transfers, boat rides, free time on Büyükada, and lunch.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers hotel transfers, ferry tickets, a buffet lunch with one soft drink, a knowledgeable guide speaking English and Arabic, and all taxes and fees.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring for the free time on Büyükada?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and perhaps a camera or a book. You might also want some cash for snacks or souvenirs, although many cafes accept cards.

Is there an age limit or accessibility concern?
Most travelers can participate, but note that the tour involves walking around Büyükada, which might be difficult for those with mobility issues.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian meals are available upon request, so be sure to specify your dietary needs when booking.

This tour balances scenic views, cultural charm, and practical convenience—making it a standout choice for experiencing Istanbul’s nearby treasures with minimal hassle.