Private Princes’ Islands Tour

Exploring Istanbul’s Princes’ Islands: A Detailed Review of the Private Tour

If you’re seeking a peaceful break from the hustle of Istanbul, a private Princes’ Islands tour offers a charming escape filled with scenic views, laid-back vibes, and authentic local spots. This carefully curated experience takes you to Büyükada—the largest of the four Princes’ Islands—where you can explore at your own pace, whether on foot or by bike, away from the city’s noise. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you’ll uncover the islands’ hidden gems, from historic houses to quiet beaches, all within a flexible four- to five-hour window.

What really appeals about this tour is the personalized attention it offers—being booked privately means your group can tailor the experience, asking questions, and spending more time on what interests you most. Plus, the ferry ride itself is a highlight, offering a chance to enjoy Istanbul from the water, with views that are simply unbeatable. The only thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite condensed; if you’re after a deep-dive into each island or want to relax longer on beaches, you might find the schedule a bit tight for that.

This tour is a wonderful choice for travelers who value authentic, scenic, and flexible outings. If you love history mixed with leisurely exploration and are comfortable with a bit of walking and biking, it’s a perfect fit. For those after a full-day or a more in-depth island-hopping experience, you may want to consider additional options or longer tours.

Key Points

• Personalized Private Experience: You’ll have a dedicated guide, allowing for tailored stops and more meaningful insights.
• Flexible Itinerary: The tour combines walking, biking, and optional visits to beaches, catering to diverse interests.
• Authentic Island Feel: Visit peaceful spots like Burgazada, with its quiet streets and beautiful sea views.
• Cultural & Historic Highlights: Stops include the former home of a renowned Turkish author and Aya Yani Church.
• Beautiful Scenic Rides: Enjoy a boat ride to the islands and scenic walks, with options to relax at hidden beaches.
• Value for Money: At around $87 per person, the experience offers good value, especially considering private guide service and personalized touches.

A Deep Dive into the Princes’ Islands Private Tour

Introduction: A Unique Getaway from Istanbul’s Bustle

This private tour promises a leisurely day exploring Büyükada, the largest of the Princes’ Islands, famed for its car-free streets and relaxed pace. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want to escape the busy streets of Istanbul and enjoy a more tranquil, scenic environment. One of the best features? The ability to explore at your own rhythm, thanks to a private guide who can adjust the pace and focus on your interests—whether that’s photography, history, or simply relaxing by the sea.

We love that this experience centers around authenticity and comfort. From the ferry ride to the island to the bike rides and visits to quiet beaches, every element is designed to maximize the charm and serenity of the islands. A small caveat is the timing—since the tour lasts around four to five hours, it’s more of a taste than an exhaustive exploration; if you’re seeking a full-day adventure, additional time might be needed.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate cultural nuances, scenic beauty, and personalized service. It’s especially great if you prefer a flexible itinerary and want to avoid large group crowds or rushed sightseeing.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Meeting and Ferry Transfer from Kadikoy Iskelesi

The tour begins at the Kadikoy Beşiktaş Ferry Station, a lively hub with frequent ferries heading to the Princes’ Islands. The ferry ride lasts approximately one hour, offering a fantastic vantage point to see Istanbul from the water. Many reviewers, like Robert B., found the ferry to be “fascinating,” enjoying the chance to see Istanbul’s skyline and Bosphorus views en route.

If Kadikoy isn’t convenient, the tour offers flexibility with private transfers or alternative departure points, which is great for travelers staying further east or near other parts of the city. The ticket itself is free, as the focus is on the ferry ride, making it an affordable highlight.

Arrival at Burgazada and First Impressions

Arriving at Burgazada—the most peaceful of the four islands—is a breath of fresh air. Expect a calm, authentic vibe, quite different from Istanbul’s busy streets. The guide typically recommends starting with a coffee or tea with a sea view, setting the relaxed tone. Several reviewers appreciated this moment of calm, noting the beautiful scenery and cozy cafes.

The Literary Connection and Historic Sites

One of the first stops is the former home of a celebrated Turkish author, which adds a literary touch to the trip. While the exact author isn’t named, the connection suggests a glimpse into the islands’ cultural heritage. The walk to Aya Yani Church offers a chance to admire Greek Orthodox architecture—whether you go inside or enjoy the exterior, the church’s unique design is a visual treat.

Hidden Beaches and Relaxation at Madam Marta Koyu

One of the most praised stops is Madam Marta Koyu, a secluded bay named after the islands’ most famous woman of her time. The rocky bay is perfect for those looking to swim or simply relax by the sea. Reviewers like “kay_w” loved this spot for its peaceful atmosphere, even though the rocky terrain means bringing your own swimsuit and swimming shoes is advisable. Many mention it as one of the most unique swimming spots in Istanbul, far from crowded beaches.

Island Hike and Mosque Visit

From the beach, a short hike leads to the Burgazada Cami, a mosque with island-style architecture and striking harbor views. Visitors can choose to step inside or just enjoy the scenic views from outside—both options are offered. Several travelers, including kay_w, enjoyed the stunning vistas from this spot.

Lunch and Optional Extras

The tour offers the choice of island-style lunch or a speedy boat ride to say goodbye to the islands. If you prefer, you can return directly on the next ferry with your guide, or extend your stay by exploring more on your own. The flexibility here is appreciated, as some might want a quick departure, while others might savor more time exploring.

The Experience: What You’ll Enjoy

Transportation: The ferry ride is a key highlight, providing stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline and the Bosphorus. The private guide ensures smooth transfers and tailored stops, making the experience seamless.

Walking & Biking: The tour combines walking through peaceful neighborhoods with a bike ride—a fun and eco-friendly way to see the island’s highlights. Biking on a car-free island is an authentic and enjoyable experience, especially for those not keen on long walks.

Cultural & Scenic Pieces: Visiting the literary house and the Greek Orthodox church adds depth, while the hidden beaches offer a rare glimpse of Istanbul’s lesser-known natural beauty.

Food & Drink: A coffee or tea stop by the sea is included, with reviewers noting the delicious local flavors. Although meals aren’t included in the package, many opt for island cafes serving fresh seafood and snacks.

Guide & Personal Attention: Being a private tour, the guide’s knowledge stands out. Multiple reviews praise guides like Onur, who make the experience engaging, approachable, and tailored to traveler interests.

Value & Practical Considerations

At approximately $86 for a private experience, this tour offers good value, especially considering the personalized service, guide, and ferry rides. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, scenic, and culturally enriching day without the hassle of planning every detail.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour is somewhat condensed; if you want to linger longer at beaches or explore other islands, you might need to arrange additional time or options.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers craving a peaceful, scenic escape from Istanbul’s city buzz. It appeals to those who love cultural sites, natural beauty, and personalized experiences. If you’re comfortable with a mix of walking and biking and enjoy flexible itineraries, this tour will suit you well.

It’s also well-suited for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who appreciate authentic local spots and want to avoid large tour groups. Those with limited time in Istanbul but eager to see the Princes’ Islands in a relaxed, guided setting will find this highly worthwhile.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This private Princes’ Islands tour combines scenic boat rides, cultural visits, and tranquil beaches into a beautifully balanced experience. It’s ideal for travelers who want personalized attention, flexible pacing, and authentic island encounters. The guide’s local insights and the tour’s thoughtfully curated stops make it a standout for those seeking a relaxed, scenic adventure away from Istanbul’s chaos.

While it doesn’t include extensive island-hopping or long beach stays, it covers enough ground for a satisfying taste of these peaceful spots. The value for money is clear, considering the private guide and tailored itinerary. Whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple, or a small group, this tour offers a genuine, scenic escape—perfect for a half-day getaway.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a ferry ride to the islands, a local English-speaking guide, and stops at key sites like Aya Yani Church and Madam Marta Koyu. Coffee and/or tea are also provided, and the tour includes some free time for walks and relaxation.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are options for island-style lunch if you choose. Many cafes serve fresh seafood and snacks, making it easy to grab a bite during the day.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, being a private tour allows some flexibility. You can choose to spend more time at certain spots or skip particular visits, depending on your interests.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a swimsuit and swimming shoes if you plan to swim, sun protection, and a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but biking and walking are involved, so consider your kids’ comfort with these activities.

How long does the ferry ride take?
The ferry from Kadikoy to Büyükada lasts about one hour, providing a relaxing start to your island adventure.

What are the meeting points?
The tour starts in front of the Kadıköy Beşiktaş Ferry Station. Private transfers can be arranged if needed, and the tour ends back at the meeting point.

This private Princes’ Islands tour offers a well-balanced glimpse into Istanbul’s quieter side. With scenic ferry rides, cultural stops, and peaceful beaches, it’s a memorable escape tailored for those wanting a relaxed, authentic outing.