From Istanbul: Full-Day Princes Island Tour with Lunch
Fatih, Istanbul
Travel by boat from Istanbul to Büyükada Island and Kinali Island. See Ottoman mansions, savor lunch while on the sea, enjoy free time to explore, and enjoy an optional hotel pickup service.
Big Island (Büyükada) Day Trip from Istanbul
This 7-hour excursion from Istanbul explores Büyükada, the largest of Turkey’s Princes Islands, ideal for visitors interested in history, nature, and leisurely island time.
Highlights
- Spend time at your leisure on Büyükada, the largest Princes Island
- Admire Ottoman-era mansions lining the island
- Enjoy lunch on board a private boat during summer
- Rent an electric buggy to explore the island’s mansions
- Visit Büyükada, Heybeliada, or Kınalı Island
Description
Depart Istanbul by air-conditioned coach to the port, then board a boat crossing the Sea of Marmara to Büyükada. On the boat, view Istanbul landmarks such as Topkapi Palace and Kız Kulesi (Maiden’s Tower).
Upon arrival, explore the pedestrianized island on foot or rent a bike (not included). Relax on beaches or stroll through streets to experience the island’s serene atmosphere.
During the boat ride, the guide will share insights about Büyükada’s history as a place of exile and a Byzantine monastic settlement. Pass by late Ottoman wooden mansions while observing seabirds; guests can feed seagulls with simit (sesame bread) provided by the guide.
Lunch is served on board in summer or at a restaurant in winter if weather conditions require. Afterward, enjoy free time before meeting at a set time for the return boat to Istanbul. The trip concludes with a coach ride back to your Istanbul hotel.
Includes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected)
- Air-conditioned coach transportation
- Boat trip to the Princes Islands
- Tour guide onboard
- Entrance fees to the islands
- Lunch (if option selected)
- Optional visit to gift and leather shops
Excludes
- Drinks at lunch
- Bike rental (optional)
- Electric buggy ticket (available to purchase on site)
- Tips
Important Information
- If you do not receive a pickup time email within 1–2 hours after booking, check your spam folder or contact the tour operator
- The boat departs between 09:45 and 09:55
- From November 15 to March 15, the tour visits only Büyükada
- Transfer service covers European Side areas: Taksim, Şişli, S. Ahmet, Aksaray, Beyazıt, Sirkeci, and Beyoğlu
- This is primarily a nature and sightseeing tour with free exploration rather than detailed guiding
- Most of the tour time is spent on the boat
Easy Cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking tip: Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and weather-appropriate clothing. Summer offers on-board lunch and better chances to rent electric buggies. Confirm pickup details before your tour.
