Buyukada Princes Island Guided Day Tour with lunch from Istanbul

If you’re looking to add a peaceful island experience to your Istanbul trip, the Buyukada Princes Island Guided Day Tour might just be your ticket. This roughly 8-hour adventure takes you from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul to the tranquil shores of Turkey’s biggest Princes’ Island. Think scenic boat rides, historic sights, a horse-drawn carriage tour, and a tasty seafood lunch — all bundled into one fairly affordable package.

One of the things we really appreciate about this tour is its balanced mix of guided commentary and free time. You’ll enjoy seeing some iconic Istanbul sights en route, then relax on the island, soaking in the slow pace and stunning scenery. That said, it’s worth noting that some travelers have found the overall experience quite basic and feel the tour could benefit from more in-depth narration or time.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, relaxed exploration, and authentic local flavor without too much fuss. Keep in mind it’s ideal if you’re okay with a group setting, some crowds, and a schedule that’s a little flexible, but not overly rushed.

Key Points

• Balanced experience: Combines guided commentary, sightseeing, and free leisure time.
• Comfortable transport: Includes hotel pickup, air-conditioned coach, and boat rides.
• Authentic island charm: No cars allowed, only horse-drawn carriages and walking.
• Stunning views: From Istanbul’s skyline to the blue waters surrounding Büyükada.
• Good value: Includes lunch, boat trips, and guided insights at a reasonable price.
• Variable reviews: Some travelers find it well-organized; others think it’s quite basic or crowded.

Diving into the Details of the Tour

The Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins early, with a pickup from your Istanbul hotel (or a nearby meeting point if your hotel isn’t accessible). The transfer to the port is smooth, especially if you’re staying centrally in Istanbul. The coach is air-conditioned, which is a relief on warm days, and the small group size (max 15 travelers) helps keep things intimate and manageable.

The Boat Ride: Istanbul’s Shoreline in Motion

Once at the port, you’ll hop aboard a boat for the cruise across the Sea of Marmara. This is where the magic begins. From the deck, you’ll get fleeting glimpses of Topkapi Palace, and if the weather is clear, you’ll enjoy some truly memorable views. Several reviewers commented positively on the boat ride, with many mentioning the scenic beauty and the chance to see the Istanbul skyline shrinking behind you.

As you cruise, keep your camera ready — you’ll pass by the famous Kiz Kulesi (Maiden’s Tower), which featured in a James Bond film. The boat ride is approximately an hour, and while some found it relaxing and scenic, a few travelers noted it can get crowded, especially in peak season, making the experience slightly less comfortable.

Disembarking at Büyükada: A Step into Calm

Arriving at Büyükada feels like stepping into a different world. Cars are banned here, so the only options are walking or horse-drawn carriages. The island’s calm, pine-scented air and original wooden mansions immediately convey its history as a resort for Byzantine princes and Ottoman aristocrats.

Your guide will point out key sights as you stroll along the narrow streets. Several reviews have highlighted the charm of the Ottoman-era wooden houses, which offer amazing photo opportunities. You’ll also learn from your guide about the island’s past as a place of exile for royalty and statesmen, adding a layer of intrigue to your walk.

The Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride: A Vintage Transport Experience

Most travelers seem to love the carriage ride — it’s truly the best way to see the island’s highlights without tiring yourself out. The sound of hooves on cobblestones and the scenic views make it a memorable journey. However, a recurring comment from travelers is that the ride can be quite quick or rushed, especially at the top of the hill, where there’s often a pause or stop.

One reviewer mentioned that the carriage ride was “fast-paced but fun,” with a brief stop at the top for photos, though some felt it could have been longer or more leisurely. The carriage ride is a great way to soak up the atmosphere, but if you’re after in-depth narration, you might find the guide’s commentary somewhat limited here.

Learning About the Island’s Past

Your guide will share snippets of history, such as Büyükada’s role as a exile site for Ottoman royalty and its Byzantine monasteries. While some guests like the guide mentioned, “John,” did their best to inform, others found the narration somewhat sparse, feeling they could have learned more about the island’s history if the guide had been more engaged.

Lunch: Seafood and Local Flavors

A major highlight for many is the included lunch at a local fish restaurant. The menu typically features fresh seafood, which many reviewers found tasty and well-prepared. The experience of sitting by the water and enjoying a leisurely meal adds to the relaxed island vibe. But, a handful of comments mentioned that the lunch was quite basic or average, suggesting that the value might vary depending on expectations.

Free Time and Optional Activities

Post-lunch, you have some free time to relax, swim at the beach, grab a drink at a seaside café, or explore local craft shops. Several travelers enjoyed feeding the seabirds — an activity that seems to make the visit more memorable. You might find, as some reviewers did, that the crowds can be quite hefty, especially during peak season or on weekends, which can detract from the peaceful experience.

Returning to Istanbul

Later in the afternoon, you’ll meet your guide to board the boat back to Istanbul. The return trip offers more chances for photos and looking back at the island from the water. The coach will then transfer you back to your hotel, ending a day that promises a taste of island life but with some caveats.

What Real Travelers Say

Based on reviews, opinions are mixed — some found the day well-organized and enjoyable, citing the boat rides, the carriage experience, and the lunch as highlights. Many appreciated the knowledgeable guides, like Mehmet and Osman, who helped fill in some historical gaps and added enthusiasm.

However, others felt the tour was quite “basic,” with limited narration and long queues for the carriage rides, which could be frustrating. One guest shared that the tour felt rushed, with only a few hours on the island, making it hard to truly unwind.

The Weather Factor

A few travelers noted that the experience greatly depends on the weather. One review mentioned that rain made the day less enjoyable, and others suggested that the tour is best on a warm, sunny day. The boat ride and outdoor activities are weather-dependent, so checking the forecast before booking is advisable.

The Value for Money

At around $83 per person, this tour offers a decent package: hotel pickup, boat crossings, guided commentary, and a seafood lunch. While some guests think the experience could be richer in detail, the overall value lies in combining multiple activities into one day — especially if you prefer a guided experience rather than figuring it out on your own.

If you’re after a relaxed introduction to Büyükada with enough structure to ensure you see the main sights, this tour hits the mark. But if you’re a history buff or seeking a quieter, more in-depth exploration, you might consider spending more time independently.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free day that mixes sightseeing with leisure. It suits those who enjoy guided commentary, scenic boat rides, and a taste of local life without the hassle of organizing transport or figuring out the island’s layout.

It’s also ideal if you’re comfortable with some crowds and don’t mind a schedule that’s a little rushed, especially during busy seasons. Those interested in photography or exploring Ottoman architecture will appreciate the chance to stroll and snap photos at a relaxed pace.

Final Thoughts

The Buyukada Princes Island Guided Day Tour offers a pleasant, if somewhat basic, escape from Istanbul’s busy streets. With scenic boat rides, a charming horse-drawn carriage, and a delicious seafood lunch, it provides a good overview of the island’s highlights. The experience benefits greatly from knowledgeable guides and stunning views, making it a convenient way to experience a different side of Istanbul.

That said, it’s not the best choice if you crave in-depth history, quiet solitude, or personalized touring. Some guests found the narration lacking and the time on the island limited, especially during peak times or bad weather. But if you’re after a relaxing day, a taste of local culture, and some classic photo moments, this tour delivers.

In the end, it’s a solid option for those looking for a well-organized, scenic, and reasonably priced day trip. Just keep your expectations in check and be ready for some crowds and a schedule that favors sightseeing over deep exploration.

FAQ

How long is the tour overall?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including pickup, travel time, boat rides, and free time on the island.

What is included in the price?
The package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, round-trip boat crossings, a guided tour, and lunch.

Is there free time on the island?
Yes, after the carriage ride and lunch, you have some free time to relax, swim, or explore local shops before heading back.

Can I do this tour if I don’t like crowds?
While the tour is generally organized and small, busy seasons and weekends can be crowded, especially on the boat and at popular spots.

What kind of lunch is served?
A seafood lunch at a local restaurant, with some reviews describing it as tasty, though others found it quite basic.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Most reviews mention guides like Mehmet and Osman as friendly and informative, though some felt the narration could be deeper.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sunscreen, hat, swimwear if you plan to swim, and some cash for tips or souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, generally, but keep in mind the schedule involves a fair amount of walking and boat rides, which might be tiring for very young children.

In summary, this guided day trip to Büyükada is a convenient way to enjoy the island’s unique charm, especially if you value comfort, organized logistics, and scenic views. It suits travelers eager for a relaxed, scenic, and culturally interesting day out, but those seeking deep history or solitude may want to consider alternative options.