Istanbul: Princes Islands Tour with Heybeliada and Büyükada

Taking a trip to Istanbul often means exploring its bustling markets, historic mosques, and vibrant streets. But just a ferry ride away lies a peaceful retreat—the Princes Islands. This popular tour offers a full-day escape into nature, history, and laid-back island life, all with the convenience of hotel pickup and guided insights.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines scenic boat rides with leisurely explorations of some of Turkey’s most charming islands. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious Turkish lunch overlooking the sea elevates the day from simple sightseeing to a truly satisfying journey.

One possible consideration? The itinerary involves quite a bit of travel time, including boat rides and coach transfers, which might be a long day for some. However, for those seeking a relaxed yet rich experience outside Istanbul’s urban buzz, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic views, cultural insights, and the freedom to explore at their own pace.

Key Points

• Scenic boat cruises offer spectacular views of Istanbul and the Sea of Marmara.
• Guided tours on the islands provide both historical context and local insights.
• Electric car tours on Büyükada make exploring the island comfortable and eco-friendly.
• The lunch experience includes Turkish dishes, often praised for quality and presentation.
• Free time allows visitors to swim, stroll, or relax, especially during summer.
• The overall value for money is high, considering the inclusions like transportation, guide, and lunch.

An In-Depth Look at the Princes Islands Tour

The Starting Point: Hotel Pickup and Journey to the Sea

The day kicks off early, with hotel pickups between 08:00 and 09:15 from centrally located areas like Taksim, Sultanahmet, and other popular spots. This is a real plus for travelers who prefer to avoid the hassle of finding local meeting points. From there, you’ll hop onto a comfortable coach, which takes about 45 minutes to reach the ferry port.

Traveling through Istanbul’s lively streets, you’ll notice the contrast once you’re on the coach—soon, the views turn to water and sky, building anticipation for the boat cruise ahead. The smooth transition from land to sea sets a relaxed tone for the day.

The Cruise: Sights and Serenity

Once aboard the ferry, the 1.5-hour cruise provides a gentle transition from the city’s hustle. Travelers often comment on the “epic scenery” and how the boat ride itself is a highlight. You’ll see Istanbul’s skyline recede as you glide across the Sea of Marmara, offering photo-worthy vistas of minarets, domes, and distant hills.

The boat is described as comfortable, with some reviews noting that it’s not overcrowded, making it an enjoyable, unrushed experience. The crew is friendly, and guides sometimes share engaging historical insights during the ride. Remember, this is a sightseeing cruise as much as a transportation method, so bring your camera and some snacks if allowed.

First Stop: Heybeliada

The first island, Heybeliada, is often praised for its lush greenery and peaceful vibe—the “second-largest but the greenest of the islands,” as one review mentions. Here, your guide will provide a brief explanation of the island’s charm before you’re given free time to explore.

Most travelers enjoy walking around, soaking in the sights of old houses, quiet streets, and scenic viewpoints. Some reviewers note that the guided tour here is about 45 minutes, which allows enough time for photos and a quick look at local shops. Although some mention that exploration can be limited if taxis or bikes aren’t available, the general sentiment is that Heybeliada offers a calm, scenic escape.

Continuing to Büyükada: The Main Attraction

After Heybeliada, the tour continues to Büyükada, the largest of the Princes Islands. Here, the focus is on experiencing the island’s historic mansions, which are a major draw. The guided electric car tour is a highlight—quiet, eco-friendly, and a comfortable way to see the grand, often stately, historic homes that once belonged to Ottoman elites.

Many reviews praise the guide’s commentary, noting guides like Suleiman as especially knowledgeable and attentive. One reviewer even mentioned that Suleiman went out of his way to help locate specific sites, such as a theology school, making the experience more personal.

Lunch: Turkish Flavors with a View

Midway through the day, you’ll stop for a substantial Turkish lunch, often described as delicious with a beautiful sea view. The included meal typically features local dishes, and guests frequently mention the quality and presentation. Some reviews note the addition of a drink or the opportunity to savor local flavors, making lunch not just sustenance but a memorable part of the day.

Free Time on Büyükada

Post-lunch, you are free to explore further or relax. The three-hour window is generally appreciated, but some reviews mention that the time on Büyükada can feel a bit rushed—particularly on the second island, where the stop might be shorter than desired.

For those interested in swimming, the option is available during summer months, although it’s worth noting that this is subject to weather and season. Many travelers take the chance to stroll along the waterfront, browse shops, or rent bikes to cycle around.

Return Cruise and Shopping Stop

After your free exploration, the return cruise takes another 1.5 hours, offering a different perspective on the city’s skyline. Once back in Istanbul, the tour includes a brief shopping stop—an opportunity to pick up souvenirs or local crafts.

The day wraps up with a coach ride back to your hotel, with estimated drop-off times around late afternoon or early evening, depending on traffic and group size.

Practical Details and Tips

Price & Value: At around $31 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the inclusions—hotel pickup and drop-off, boat tickets, a guided tour, and a full Turkish meal. The reviews consistently highlight good value for the money, especially when you factor in the ease of transport and the quality of the guides.

Group Size & Guides: The guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, with names like Suleiman and Mert frequently mentioned. The group sizes tend to be small to medium, which makes for a more intimate experience and easier interaction.

Timing & Duration: The whole day lasts about 8 hours, so it’s a substantial outing but not overly long. Starting times vary based on availability, so it’s worth checking the schedule once you book.

Weather Considerations: Since the tour relies on good weather, it’s best suited for clear, calm days. Windy or rainy weather could impact boat comfort and sightseeing enjoyment.

Seasonal Tips: Summer months offer swimming and longer daylight hours, ideal for those looking to cool off or take more photos. In cooler seasons, focus on sightseeing and enjoying the scenery from the boat and land.

What Travelers Say

Reviews paint a generally positive picture. Many travelers emphasize the friendly guides, especially highlighting Suleiman’s professionalism and attentiveness. The stunning views and peaceful island atmosphere are often cited as highlights, making it clear why this tour remains popular.

Some reviewers wish they had more time on Büyükada, noting that the short stay limits exploration. Others mention minor issues with transportation logistics, like delayed coaches or limited bike rentals, but these seem to be outweighed by the overall experience.

One reviewer pointed out that the lunch overlooking the sea was a standout feature, with many praising the quality of the Turkish dishes served. The boat ride itself is a recurring favorite, described as scenic, smooth, and well-organized.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed yet enriching day outside Istanbul. If you love scenic boat rides, historic architecture, and local cuisine, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It suits those who want an easy-paced exploration with guided insights, without the hassle of organizing transport or tours themselves.

Families and older travelers will appreciate the comfortable electric car tours and the laid-back atmosphere. It’s also good for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded, authentic experience that covers multiple islands in one go.

However, if you’re looking for an intense adventure or a day with lots of active exploration, this might feel a bit limited. Also, those who want longer periods on each island might prefer private or tailor-made options.

FAQs

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
You should be prepared in your hotel lobby about 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time, which is between 08:00 and 09:15.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, boat tickets, a guided tour, and a Turkish lunch. Extra drinks or bike rentals are not included.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming is an option on Büyükada during the summer months, but keep in mind it depends on the weather and your free time.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, families find it safe and enjoyable, especially with the electric car tours and scenic boat rides. Just be aware of the long day and plan accordingly.

What language is the guide speaking?
Guides are available in English, Russian, and Arabic, ensuring clear communication for diverse groups.

How long is the boat cruise?
The cruise between Istanbul and the islands is approximately 1.5 hours each way, providing plenty of scenic views along the way.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the tour relies heavily on good weather for the boat rides, a poor forecast could cause modifications or cancellations. Always check the weather forecast before booking.

Are there shopping opportunities after the tour?
Yes, once back in Istanbul, there’s a short stop for shopping, where you can browse local crafts and souvenirs.

This Princes Islands tour offers a well-balanced day out, blending scenic cruises, guided island explorations, and local cuisine at a very reasonable price. It’s a fantastic way to escape Istanbul’s busy streets and enjoy a more tranquil, scenic side of Turkey. The knowledgeable guides, especially Suleiman, make a real difference, providing insights and personal touches that elevate the experience.

While the itinerary may feel a bit rushed to some, the overall value, comfort, and natural beauty make it a worthwhile day trip. Perfect for those who want to combine light adventure with relaxation and cultural discovery, this tour stands out as a thoughtful introduction to Istanbul’s less crowded, more peaceful islands.

Whether you’re a history lover, nature enthusiast, or simply in need of a calm getaway, this Princes Islands tour will likely leave you with fond memories and stunning photos.