From Istanbul: Princess Islands Guided Day Trip by Ferry

Princess Islands Full-Day Cruise from Istanbul

This full-day cruise departs from Istanbul, ideal for travelers seeking a relaxing island escape with guided insights in English and Russian.

Highlights

• Cruise to two islands in the Marmara Sea: Büyükada and Heybeliada
• Three hours of free time to explore Büyükada independently
• One hour of free time on Heybeliada for walking or sightseeing
• Live guide commentary about Istanbul’s landmarks and history from the boat
• Opportunities for photography of Istanbul’s skyline and historic sites

Description

The tour begins at 10:00 AM from Istanbul’s pier, cruising across the Marmara Sea. Onboard, your professional English and Russian-speaking guide will share stories and historical facts about the monuments and geographical features along the route.

Your first stop is Büyükada, the largest of the Princess Islands. After a brief introduction by your guide highlighting bike rentals, swimming areas, and local attractions, you will have about three hours to explore the island independently. Options include biking, visiting cafés, shopping for souvenirs, or simply enjoying the island atmosphere.

Next, you will visit Heybeliada, known for its natural beauty and historical sites, including the former summer residence of Turkey’s second president, now a museum. Your guide will provide orientation before giving you approximately one hour to explore.

After the island visits, the boat returns to Golden Horn (Haliç). Tour duration and itinerary may vary due to weather or ferry schedules, and in some cases, the tour may be replaced with a Bosphorus cruise.

Includes

• Ferry transportation to and from the Princess Islands
• Professional English and Russian-speaking guide on the boat
• Island orientation and guidance during stops

Excludes

• Food, drinks, and personal expenses
• Hotel transfers
• Lunch

Important Information

• This tour involves significant walking and is suitable for people comfortable with exploring on foot
• The total duration is approximately 6–7 hours
• Free time on Büyükada is about 3 hours; on Heybeliada, about 1 hour
• The tour operates subject to weather and sea conditions
• In case of ferry or weather disruptions, the itinerary may be modified to a Bosphorus cruise

Easy Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund.

For best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and sun protection. Morning bookings are recommended to maximize daylight and island exploration time.