Princes’ Islands Tour from Istanbul Lunch Included

Exploring the Princes’ Islands from Istanbul: A Relaxing Day on the Sea

This Princes’ Islands tour offers a refreshing way to escape the bustling streets of Istanbul and enjoy a full day surrounded by sea, nature, and charming island life. With a comfortable boat cruise, free time at two distinct islands, and a delicious onboard lunch, it’s designed for travelers seeking a peaceful, scenic experience away from the city’s noise. What stands out most for us is the opportunity to dine on the water—literally—while soaking up views of the Marmara Sea, in a setting far removed from busy restaurants and crowded streets.

One of the things we love about this tour is the flexibility it provides. You get ample time to explore each island at your own pace, whether that’s taking a dip at Büyükada’s beaches or wandering through the quaint streets. A minor consideration is that it’s a full-day adventure, so it’s best suited for those who don’t mind a long, relaxing excursion. This tour is perfect for travelers who want to combine scenic cruising with authentic island exploration, especially if they appreciate good food and peaceful surroundings.

Key Points

• Comfortable Boat Ride: Enjoy a spacious, organized cruise across the Marmara Sea, offering stunning views and a smooth journey.
• Onboard Lunch: Indulge in a freshly served meal while anchored at sea—an uncommon treat that elevates the experience.
• Flexible Island Exploration: Free time on Kinaliada and Büyükada allows you to explore at your own speed, whether on foot, bike, or simply relaxing.
• Authentic Atmosphere: The islands are car-free, with bicycles and horse-drawn carriages creating a charming, timeless vibe.
• All-Inclusive Transport: Hotel pickup and drop-off, plus round-trip boat crossings, mean you don’t need to worry about logistics.
• Ideal for Relaxation: A peaceful day out, perfect for those wanting a laid-back, scenic escape from Istanbul’s hustle.

A Detailed Look at the Princes’ Islands Tour

Introduction to the Experience

This tour is a well-rounded package designed for travelers seeking a balance of scenic beauty, authentic island charm, and ease of access from Istanbul. Priced at about $40.83 per person, it offers excellent value for what you get—a full, thoughtfully organized day that combines transport, sightseeing, and gourmet dining. The maximum group size of 80 helps keep the experience intimate but lively enough for social interactions.

We particularly appreciate the hotel pickup and drop-off included in the package, sparing you the hassle of navigating public transport or finding a meeting point. The round-trip boat crossing is a highlight in itself, delivering panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline, the Maiden’s Tower, and passing by landmarks like Topkapi Palace.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Istanbul to Ahirkapi Pier

Your day begins early, with a meet-up at your hotel around 8:30 AM. From there, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned coach heading to the port, where your boat awaits. The smooth transfer sets the tone for a comfortable day, and the anticipation builds as you prepare for the sea journey.

Cruising Past Istanbul’s Landmarks

As your boat departs, you’ll cruise past some of Istanbul’s most iconic sights. The guide provides commentary on landmarks such as Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, and the famous Maiden’s Tower. Many reviewers note how the boat ride itself is a highlight, with the open sea offering stunning views and photo opportunities. One traveler mentioned, “The ferry ride was smooth, and once we arrived at the island, it felt like stepping into a different time—no cars, just bicycles and horse-drawn carriages.”

Visiting Kinaliada

The first stop is Kinaliada, where you have about an hour of free time. This smaller island is less touristy and offers a chance to stretch your legs or explore quietly. Reviewers appreciated this stop, mentioning the opportunity to explore at a relaxed pace or simply enjoy the natural surroundings.

Arriving at Büyükada

Next comes the largest and most famous of the islands, Büyükada. Here, lunch is served onboard, while your boat remains anchored at sea, allowing you to dine with a panoramic view of the water. The onboard meal is a standout feature, offering fresh, well-prepared dishes that provide a break from typical land-based meals. One reviewer described it as “delicious seafood by the water, with the breeze in your hair.”

After lunch, you’re free to explore Büyükada for about two hours. Many travelers use this time to walk along the waterfront, rent bikes, or relax on the beaches. The island’s car-free streets mean a peaceful atmosphere, and some note the charm of discovering hidden cafes or taking in views from the hilltop.

Authentic Experiences and Unique Highlights

What makes this tour especially appealing is the combination of scenic cruising and free exploration. Unlike many guided tours that rush through attractions, this one allows genuine immersion. The onboard lunch, in particular, elevates the experience—you’re not just dining on land but enjoying a meal amid the peaceful sea, far from the noise of busy restaurants. Such details are often praised, with one reviewer saying, “It felt like a peaceful escape, the boat was comfortable, and the food was really good.”

The photo opportunities are plentiful, from passing by the Maiden’s Tower to capturing the colorful streets of Büyükada. The timing—a full 7 to 8 hours—gives enough room for a leisurely pace, ensuring you don’t feel rushed.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

At just over $40, this experience packs in more than just transportation—it’s about relaxation, scenic beauty, and authentic island life. The included lunch onboard is a major plus, especially considering many similar tours require separate dining arrangements. The hotel pick-up and drop-off add convenience, making it suitable even for travelers unfamiliar with public transit.

The quality of the boat and organization receive praise, with comments indicating that the vessel is spacious, clean, and well maintained. The guides also add value with their commentary, helping you appreciate Istanbul’s maritime landscape and the islands’ history.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those who want a laid-back, scenic day with minimal hassle. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic, car-free islands and enjoy delicious food in unique settings. If you’re a fan of picturesque views and want to escape the city’s hustle without sacrificing comfort or organization, this could be your perfect day out.

Those with a love for sea views and outdoor exploration will find the free time on each island particularly rewarding. It’s also a fantastic choice for couples, small groups, or families wanting a calm, beautifully organized day that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

The Sum Up

This Princes’ Islands tour offers more than just a boat ride—it’s a chance to step away from Istanbul’s busy streets and into a tranquil world of charming streets, historic scenery, and sea breezes. The onboard lunch, combined with flexible exploration time and smooth transportation, makes it an excellent choice for travelers seeking comfort and authenticity at a reasonable price.

While it’s a full-day commitment, the relaxed pace, stunning views, and peaceful island atmosphere make it worth the time. Whether you want to relax on the beaches, explore historic streets, or simply enjoy the sea breeze, this tour caters to those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation.

If you’re looking for a way to combine scenic cruising with island charm—without the rush or hassle—this trip from Istanbul is a smart pick. It’s especially suited for those who prioritize comfort, good food, and a genuine escape into nature and history.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient and hassle-free.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each part of the day.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel transportation, round-trip boat crossing, a local guide, and a freshly prepared onboard lunch.

Can I explore the islands freely?
Absolutely. You’ll have about an hour on Kinaliada and two hours on Büyükada to explore at your own pace.

Is there any transportation on the islands?
While the tour doesn’t specify boat or bicycle rentals, the free time generally allows for walking or casual exploration—most visitors walk or rent bikes for a more local experience.

What about beverages?
Drinks are not included, so you might want to bring water or purchase beverages onboard or on the islands.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat is described as spacious, clean, and organized, ensuring a comfortable ride across the Marmara Sea.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 13 days in advance, but check availability early to secure your spot for this popular experience.

This tour strikes a fine balance between scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and ease of access, making it a memorable day for those wanting a peaceful escape from Istanbul’s hustle.