If you are new to the city, start with a quick skim of about city to place the islands within Istanbul’s wider map and rhythm.

History of the Islands

The Princes’ Islands have lived many lives. In Byzantine times, monasteries and quiet retreats shaped the hills. During the Ottoman era, wooden mansions, small docks, and summer life gave each island a friendly village feel. Today, car-free streets keep the pace gentle: people stroll under pines, swim in coves, and pause at cafés with sea views. You do not need to know every chapter to enjoy the archipelago; the ferries and shores will teach you as you go—just remember to check princes’ islands ferry times before you set out in any season.

Which Are the Princes’ Islands?

The main set includes nine islands in the Sea of Marmara. Travelers most often visit Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada. Smaller or special-use islands include Sedefadası, Yassıada, Kaşıkadası, Sivriada, and Tavşanadası. Each has a distinct mood: grand wooden villas on Büyükada, forested ridges on Heybeliada, artists’ corners on Burgazada, and sun-kissed shores on Kınalıada.

Which Princes’ Islands Are Open to Visitors?

Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada welcome day-trippers all year with cafés, bakeries, shoreline walks, and bike rentals. Sedefadası is smaller and quieter with limited access. The other islets are generally not part of standard tourist routes.

Which Districts Can You Go to the Princes’ Islands From?

You have multiple, easy departure points. On the European side, popular piers sit in Eminönü and Beşiktaş; Karaköy is another option on some timetables. On the Asian side, Kadıköy and Bostancı offer frequent sailings with short sea times, especially in summer. If your plan depends on tight connections, confirm princes’ islands ferry times for your specific pier the evening before your trip.

What Transportation Options Are There to the Princes’ Islands?

Three simple ways: municipal ferries, fast ferries or sea buses (when scheduled), and guided boat tours. Municipal lines are the classic, budget-friendly choice and run year-round. Private boats and tours add flexibility in peak season and can bundle time on more than one island. To learn how these boat routes connect with trams, metros, and buses, keep this explainer on transportation in istanbul handy. When comparing options, look at the total door-to-door time, not only the water leg—then align with published princes’ islands ferry times.

Transportation to the Princes’ Islands: 2025 Current Timetables

Exact sailings vary by season, day, and pier. In high season, departures are frequent from Kadıköy and Bostancı, with morning waves toward Büyükada and Heybeliada and steady returns until late evening. Shoulder and winter months see fewer runs, especially on weekdays. Always read the latest board or operator page for your date and pier. If a sailing is full, the next boat is usually soon in summer but may be longer in winter, so plan buffer time around the published princes’ islands ferry times.

Princes’ Islands Ferry Times: Seasonal Overview

Spring and summer: more early boats out, more late boats back. Autumn: strong weekends, calmer weekdays. Winter: reliable but less frequent service; morning and late-afternoon sailings anchor the day. If you want seats together, arrive a little early on sunny weekends.

Suggestions for Traveling to the Princes’ Islands

Pick your island to match your mood. Büyükada is lively with long coastal walks, horse-free electric shuttles, and viewpoints near the hilltop monastery. Heybeliada feels greener and slightly quieter. Burgazada offers small beaches and an artsy square. Kınalıada is closest to the city and great for a half-day swim when time is short. If you want a ready-made plan with hosted logistics, browse soft-guided options here: Princes’ Islands tickets & tours.

Practical Transportation Tips for Your Visit to the Princes’ Islands

• Tickets: Tap your transit card where accepted or buy a single ticket at the pier. Private operators sell their own tickets at kiosks.
• Seating: Upper decks offer views and breezes; lower decks are warmer on windy days.
• Timing: Boats may call at multiple islands in sequence; confirm your stop and listen for announcements.
• Returns: Mark the last two departures that fit your plan; build a 20–30 minute buffer around posted princes’ islands ferry times in peak season.
• On the islands: Streets are car-free. Walk, rent a bike, or use the designated electric shuttles where available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There Accommodation Available on the Princes’ Islands?

Yes. Small hotels and guesthouses operate year-round on Büyükada, Heybeliada, and Burgazada. Summer weekends fill quickly; book in advance if you plan to stay overnight.

Which Island Is the Fastest to Go To?

Kınalıada is usually the quickest from the Asian side, while Büyükada and Heybeliada have the most frequent service overall. Your fastest option depends on your departure pier and that day’s princes’ islands ferry times.

Can You Get to the Princes’ Islands by Car?

No. Private cars are not allowed for visitors. That is part of the charm—quiet streets, bike bells, and sea air instead of traffic.

Is Princes Island Istanbul Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Whether you choose Büyükada for its mansions and long walks, Heybeliada for forests, Burgazada for a slow lunch by the water, or Kınalıada for a quick swim, you will find a calm change of pace.

How Do I Get to the Princes Islands From Istanbul?

Take a municipal ferry or a scheduled private boat from Eminönü, Beşiktaş, Karaköy, Kadıköy, or Bostancı. For basics on boat etiquette and boarding, see this primer: ferry. If you prefer a narrated outing with arranged timings, consider a light princes’ islands tour.

Routes and Rhythm: To place the archipelago in your wider city plan, read this short backgrounder on the imperial exiles and island stories that shaped the shores: the princes of istanbul. When lining up trams, metros, and your pier, the city overview on transportation in istanbul keeps connections simple.

Closing Note

Take the day slow. Choose one island, mark your outbound and return princes’ islands ferry times, and let the sea set the pace. A light sweater for the ride home, a bakery stop near the pier, and a short walk under the pines will make the trip feel complete.

We are in Büyükada, where you will forget all your fatigue, be met by your childhood on the historic pier and feel detoxicated due to the fresh air. This fabulous land, which you will reach after a cheery ferry ride with the companionship of seagulls, will make your day magical with only the slight touch. In these sunny days take a pinch of pleasure, peace, and joy and welcome to the tour of the pearl of Istanbul, Büyükada…

You may reach Büyükada, the biggest of the nine islands called The Prince Islands, by sea bus or ferry from Kadiköy, Bostancı, Sirkeci and Kabataş. Although you may save time by sea bus, we recommend you travel by ferry, which is an indispensable aspect of this tour. Because it is an authentic taste to watch Istanbul behind you, while you drink tea and share your bagel with the seagulls sailing by delightfully.

Büyükada Tour

As soon as you leave the historical buildings in the port of Büyükada, restaurants, cafes and ice-cream sellers with delicious flavors surround you. The island welcomes you enthusiastically with people riding bicycles with great merriment, lots of cats and dogs and, of course, seagulls. We should mention that the fresh air in Büyükada immediately affects. Therefore, before the tour, a grand breakfast at Café Pasticceria right on the left of the clock tower, will prepare you for the experiences. While taking breakfast, you may decide whether to get on a phaeton right away or to rent a bicycle. We started the tour with a coach from Maden District driven by 70-year-old Mustafa Çınar, who has left Büyükada for military service. Our first target is Hagia Yorgi Church. We can’t take our eyes off the authentic Büyükada houses along the road and the colorful flowers in the gardens. As we compliment them, Mustafa Bey warns us saying, “You haven’t seen the famous manor houses in Nizam District yet.” We go on the tour leaving behind Naki Bey Beach and Büyükada Water Sports Club on the seaside along the same road. Here is a small tip for you; when you buy rose-shaped handmade ice creams, you should only buy them in Büyükada from peddlers in front of the Water Sports Club. And you will see the house of Reşat Nuri Güntekin, one of the prominent names in Turkish literature, just before Hagia Yorgi Church on the tour.

Hagia Yorgi Miracle

The square at the beginning of the uphill road to Hagia Yorgi Church is like a festival place. The donkeys waiting to carry you to the church, people sitting in the funfair casino for lunch-break, pines, and coaches, all make up a colorful scene. You may go up to Hagia Yorgi Church on foot or by the donkeys waiting. We say “go up” because we should warn you that this is a steep and long road.

At the beginning of your travel, you may flinch; you may feel anxious as you feel worry whether the donkey would throw you or follow a wrong route, but then you relax because the donkeys know the way to Hagia Yorgi Church very well. As they carry you calmly, you enjoy the sightseeing of Istanbul that lies below. Istanbul is seen differently beautiful with every step. The Hagia Yorgi Church can be summed up in one word: fabulous, sitting on the 202 m high Yüce Tepe Hill. On the right side of the church, there are the houses in which the priests stay and the monastery which is closed nowadays. And on the left side, there is Yüce Tepe Casino where you can have snacks. On all sides of Hagia Yorgi Church, the Marmara Sea brightens your face with its flashes. The other of the two hills on Büyükada, Hristos (Jesus) Hill, can be seen on the opposite side. There is a strong belief that the wishes made in Hagia Yorgi Church become true. So, don’t be surprised when you see lots of items like watches and necklaces in the glass case at the entrance of the church. They are small thanking presence from the people whose wishes came true. And it is also believed that the holy water in the church has a healing effect. So much so that there are rumors about paralyzed people who walked down Yüce Tepe on foot. The fresh air in Büyükada makes you hungry soon after. If you have finished making wishes and lighting votive candles, come into Yüce Tepe Casino for the delicious meat dishes. And don’t forget to order handmade wines.

Under The Pine Trees

The things you will see after you come down from Hagia Yorgi Church and take a walk for 20 minutes in the forest full of pine trees that have great historical importance. During this walk, accompanied by pine cones and bird songs, you have the opportunity to see the Greek Orphanage, which still holds the title of being “the biggest wooden building in the world.” The building, which has been vacant for 30 years, challenges time with its monumental architecture, even though it was left a century behind. Chickens, sheep and fruit trees in its garden now occupy the Hristos Monastery. In the small graveyard near the monastery, there are the graves of the workers who worked in the construction of the monastery and the priests who held duty there.

Love Is Different In Büyükada!

If you wish to go on your tour from Hristos Monastery to Nizam District, you may get on a phaeton. By the way, we recommend that you shouldn’t leave Büyükada without a walk on Aşıklar YouYolu (Lovers Way) and Dilburnu. We did so; after a peaceful walk on Aşıklar Yolu, we had tea, overlooking the sea at Aşıklar Casino. The only thing we feel in this place all surrounded by pines is “peace.” If you want to get cool on your walk, we suggest you go to Prenses Koyu (Princess Bay) which lies just on your left and the Yörük Ali Beach. The beach, which is reached by boat, beguiles you. As you are here, we also recommend you to see Con Pasha Mansion, which was built in the Ottoman age; and the Arap Izzet Pasha Mansion in which Leon Trotstky stayed. Meanwhile, we have to acknowledge that Mustafa Bey’s warning at the beginning of our tour was right. For the mansions in Nizam District, with their architecture and the colorful and well-groomed gardens, makes you think that the princesses in the stories are still alive.

Time To Miss The Ferry!

You can’t be aware of how the time passes in Büyükada. Thus, on the return, a rush begins on the streets. If you are lucky you may catch a phaeton during this peak-hour and you may say farewell to Büyükada by sitting at Yıldızlar Casino just opposite the pier and watch the sunset. Just at that time, you feel your heartache. You see the ferry coming slowly but you don’t want to go. It is an excitement to make a sudden decision change and wave hands to the ferry that you had planned to get in, as it leaves the landing. Let’s remind you that there are ferries from Büyükada to Bostancı till 12.30 a.m. So, you can complete your tour with an enjoyable dinner without any hurry. What should we eat? Where should we stay? As there are small and big guesthouses in Büyükada, you may prefer the Hotel Prenses Büyükada or Hotel Splendid Palace, the primary hotels of Büyükada. We also recommend Hagia Nikola Pension at Hagia Nikola Bay, with its beautiful sightseeing and special atmosphere. We are sure that it will be difficult for you to choose one of the restaurants lined next to the pier. You can have the most delicious fish and meat dishes in all of them. But our special recommendation is to taste calamari and octopus at Milto Restaurant, which has been in service since 1935. And don’t forget to say cheers and raise a toast to Istanbul greeting you resplendently. One of the common traditions of Büyükada nights is to buy a cone of ice cream and go on a walk on the seaside. Thus, we recommend you to eat ice cream as a dessert after dinner. You may buy ice cream from Prinkipo Ice Cream next to the ferry landing or Roma Ice Cream, which has been in service for three generations, and walk from Kenan Evren Park to Water Sports Club and even join the concerts at Turing Culture House. Then, accompanied with the sound horseshoes, you may walk along the lonely streets, where there are no travelers, just island residents, and get to the place that you will spend the night. By the way, don’t bother the seagulls in Büyükada, they don’t sleep till morning!

Return To Istanbul!

As soon as you wake up in the morning open the windows and take the fresh island air and enjoy the exclusive scene of green and blue. On the return, remember these and don’t forget to get hardtacks, Iranian buns and cookies with cinnamon and gum mastic at Büyükada Bakery. One day in Büyükada means peace, enjoyment, fun, and health. These are the parts that we recited. And the parts that we haven’t told are hidden in the pearl beauty of Büyükada…

If you are not in Istanbul but willing to see the marvelous Büyükada, it is only a few clicks away…

After the beginning of steamship journeys between Kadıköy – Adalar, these islands generated interest as both residential and vacation areas. In time, Armenias moved to Kınalıada, Rums to Burgazada, Jewish to Büyükada and Turks to Heybeliada. At present, the population of the island has become more cosmopolitan like Istanbul.

Today, the islands face an intense movement of domestic tourism especially during summer. The population of the district increase in summer almost 10 times more than winter. At the weekends, this rate increases more. Residents of the islands work in Istanbul and they commute by steamship every day. Most of the houses are the second houses of the families that live in Istanbul but come to the islands in summer.

Now let’s have a closer look at the islands:

The Biggest Of Prices’ Islands: Büyükada

The area of the island is 5,4 km and Büyükada is the largest of the islands on the Marmara Sea.

The island was once the exile for Trocki. On the highest hill of the island is the Aya Yorgi Church. On the way to the church, you may notice many ropes tied to trees. A pilgrimage point for Christians, this church is haunted by many people from all religions, who believe that their wishes could be realized, every year especially on 23 April and 24 September.

According to the belief, you must climb the hill to the church without a word, take a bell or a key from the church and make your wish. If your wish comes true, you must return the bell or the key to the church.

As you go to the Aya Yorgi, don’t forget to enjoy the picturesque sight of the island at length. You can also enjoy the view from the restaurant while eating your meal. We advise you to go there at sunset.

Another activity you may enjoy on the island is riding a phaeton. You can have either long or short trip by phaeton; you may see all around the island during your trip. Another way to see around the island is “renting a bicycle.”

You can find many fish restaurants if you walk to your right from the steamship pier. They are ideal if you want to eat appetizers of seafood and fresh fish.

If your choice is meat, then there are many “cook it yourself” restaurants in various parts of the island.

To swim, you may use the facilities of the Büyükada Water Sports Club or other beaches daily with a small charge.

By the way, don’t forget to taste a special “crackle” taste of the island called “palmiye” from many pastries and bakeries.

The Smallest One: Kinaliada

Kınalıada is the smallest of the islands on the Marmara Sea. It is known mostly for the Monastery of Hıristo. The founder of the monastery is the Byzantine Emperor Roman Diogenes IV, whose life became a historical example as he was betrayed by his friends.

Diogenes moved to stop the Seljuk from entering to the Anatolia in 1071, but he lost the war. Plans were made to dethrone him when he was on pilgrimage in Jerusalem. He was captured in Izmir after his return and his eyes were taken out. Then he was jailed in his own monastery in Kınalıada.

After discovering this monastery on the highest hill of the island, you will notice the Ayazma Beach on the back side. This is the place to enjoy swimming on the island.

Best Of Them: Burgazada:

Called “Antigone” in history, the island is named after Antigonus, the former commander of Alexander the Great. Demetrius Poliorcete named the island after his father Antigonus when he sailed to the Marmara Sea to conquer the empire and to free the Bosporus in 298 BC. After the conquest of Istanbul, the island was named “Pyrgos” in Greek. And in time this name changed to Burgaz. In the 19th century, the island became a summer resort for native Rums and other foreigners in Istanbul.

You can hear Spanish and Hebrew spoken on the streets of Burgazada. The Great Orthodox Sanctuary; the Aya Yorgi Karipi Church, famous with its three bells; and the monastery named same with the church are among the main works you must see on the island.

The only museum on the island is the house of famous Turkish author Sait Faik Abasıyanık. He wrote his books and lived the last ten years of his life here in Burgazada. The house was protected as it was and was transformed into a museum.

Another place you should visit on the island is a recreation area called Kalpazankaya and the restaurant here. It is possible to reach here with 30-minutes walk, phaeton, or boat. This restaurant has a magnificent sight, and it is surrounded with forest on one side and sea on the other. It is a great shame if you leave the island without tasting the delicious appetizers and the meat cooked in tandoor, and watching the sunset.

By the way, the Barbara Yani by the pier is among the recommended restaurants on the island. Formerly Rum, Yani runs the restaurant and presents delicious dishes of Rum cuisine.

Another important recreation area is Bayraktepe. The area takes its name from the flag carved on wood somewhere on the island. You can see the flag from front side of the island. It has a unique sight. There is also a camping area.

Founded in 1963, Adalar Water Sports Club serves in Burgazada as an institution, training sport person for almost every sport, including swimming, water polo, sailing and subaqueous sports. Burgazada Sea Club is the second club on the island.

Active In All Seasons: Heybeliada:

This is the second largest island after Büyükada. Compared to other islands, Heybeliada is more active in winter. The reason is the existence of the naval schools and houses, the clerical school, sanatorium, churches and the high school on the island.

In the area, mining, the commerce school, churches, monasteries and wine-selling were more important in the daily life in the Byzantine era. In the Ottoman era, the island was used as a resort due to the abundance of pine woods, fish, and hotels.

Again, in the Ottoman era, The Patriarchate of Fener and Jerusalem was on Heybeliada. Therefore, the island hosts many graves and remembrances of many patriarch metropolitan and other clergies especially of Orthodox.

Another important place on the island is the Heybeliada Beach in Değirmenburnu on the north of the island. The Halki Palas is an ideal place to spend the night.

The island, known as “Halki” for the copper mine on it, is called “Heybeliada” because it resembles a saddlebag. When I was a child, somehow I thought that this name was given because of the huge trees, with cones covering the roads. The name Heybeli must have evoked the name “heybetli” (grandeur) in my mind. Now, at last we’ve arrived at the island. I look for someone who waits for me on the pier for some reason. It is as if my grandfather is about to greet me with his cap on his head, with his jumper befitting his green eyes. In fact, there is no one else apart from a few island dwellers. The images of the old inhabitants of the island are parading in front of my eyes. Over there, Aziz Nesin is running in his shorts. I cannot recall, but is it Ahmet Rasim near Aziz Nesin, or is it Hüseyin Rahmi Gürpınar? There, Orhan Pamuk sits in the shade of a tree, as if he were designing new faces for his novels. I wonder if it is İsmet İnönü walking with a crowd around him. We had better return to our times and step on the island from the pier.

Hail To You, Beautiful Trees And Wisterias

People who are familiar with Heybeliada know well that the Maritime High School greets you first. This building, keeping company to the dreams and secrets of many youngsters, and defying the years, calmly welcomes you. When you look at the cafés and restaurants and take the road to the right of the pier, the trees and the wisterias, if it’s their season, greet you. In Heybeliada, there are some monuments whose history you can virtually feel. But you may prefer resting, lying among the white daisies and various colored flowers rather than losing time with the buildings. Picnicking in those beautiful fields, under those trees and among those flowers is absolutely forbidden. Anyway, as you see that beautiful scenery, you may prefer being a loyal spectator than being a part of that scenery. Please welcome the monuments of the island that have laid their mark in the history…

Engaging With History

The Holy Theological School of Halki is one of the most attractive elements of the island. Many sources confirm that this monastery was founded by Patriarch Photius in the 9th Century. The building now used as a monastery and church was founded in the monastery in 1844 by Patriarch Germanos in order to educate clergymen. Until its closure in 1971, it has trained almost 1000 clergymen. One of the unknown features of the school is its library, with over 120,000 books on its shelves. In this library, there are many precious books, from Greek and Latin classics to Byzantine History, from law to archaeology. The Hellenistic Trade School, one of the historical buildings on the island, was opened in 1831 and had thousands of students. In the past, the visits of the families of the students in this school were among the most important events that livened up the island. The Christos (Makarios) monastery is situated on the Makarios Hill. The Greek Orthodox Ayios Nikolaos Church was built on the grave of Patriarch Samuel I, who died in 1775. The Aya Yorgi (Saint George) Church was built over a high sea cliff, and is also called ‘Krimnos Precipise’ “the monastery of the abyss”. The Heybeliada Sanatorium, which was built to capitalize on the clean air of the island, and which was served as a source of cure and hope for the lung patients, is now closed. With its paint and mortar peeled, it is as if left for dead, exhausted and tired among the pines…

A Hidden Sanctuary Behind He Hills: Hüseyin Rahmi Gürpinar Mansion

How about being a guest to Hüseyin Rahmi Gürpınar? The mansion is built on a place near the top of Heybeliada, and gives you peace as it reveals the grace of the island’s panorama. The mansion was built by Hüseyin Rahmi in 1912 and has three storeys. The famous novelist, who had lived in this mansion until he died in 1944, sometimes climbed to his house on donkey back due to lack of roads. Hüseyin Rahmi, who settled close to the pier at first, had this mansion constructed over the hill in order to get away from the neighbors he was uncomfortable with. The mansion was transferred to the Special Provincial Administration by the beneficiaries in 1964 and was left to its fate. Many of the novelist’s belongings have been damaged due to neglect and pillaging of the visitors. By means of personal efforts of some students, some officers and Mrs. Hatice Farsıkoğlu, spouse to the district governor, some of the belongings were repaired, some of them were brushed up and the mansion was opened as a home-museum. One of the most interesting details on this mansion is that it is possible to see the embroideries, vignettes and lacework Hüseyin Rahmi himself braided. The famous novelist had crocheted these embroideries with the same care and delicacy as he designed his books.

While Walking Down The Hills Of Heybeliada

After leaving Hüseyin Rahmi Mansion, you are getting closer to the pier with each step you take, following the walkways climbing down the hill. If the season is spring, do not forget to inhale the smell of the wisterias. İsmet İnönü, who is known as the “Second Man” in our country, has a very cute, pink-white house in this island. İsmet İnönü, who caught dysentery and considered the sick leave offer of the doctors, came to this island in 1924, and settled in this house, which once belong to a Greek family, and he would buy it later. He decided to buy this house in which spent holidays in 1934. Atatürk bestowed all the household goods needed to İnönü Family. After many years, the İnönü family had used it as a summer house, and later it was turned into a museum by the İnönü foundation. There is a small house that belongs to Ahmet Rasim, but it was devastated due to negligence.

For Whom The Bell Tolls

Do not get surprised when you hear the bicycle bells as you wander in the streets of the island. The island dwellers have solved the transportation problem of the island with bicycles, where motor vehicles are banned. The contradiction of the old, discolored buildings with the modern villas reminds the blight of Istanbul. But this contradiction presents peaceful views with wisterias, huge trees, various flowers and the joyful songs of birds. Some of the points that will attract you on the island are benevolence and favor. Everybody is eager to help and give a hand. If you say that you are tired, you should be on the look out for the phaetons. To have a ride on the phaetons, the essential transportation vehicle of the Prince Islands, it is somewhat expensive.

Fish Time On The Pier

To have a delicious fish meal and to stop and rest, you may enjoy one of the cafés and restaurants located along the road on the right side of the pier. If you think that you may have trouble choosing among various options, here are some suggestions; Halki, Ambrosia and Mavi Restaurant are among the most preferred places for a fish feast. If you would like to rest while sipping your glass of steeped tea, you may enjoy Bahar Café. There are some small hostels on the island. But, while you’re here, Halki Palace should be your choice, in order to stay in a historical place and to enjoy your rest. The hotel, estimated to have been built between 1852-1862, was occupied by the students of the Hellenistic Trade School. The hotel continues to serve the guest of the island with the same delicacy and care.

Some of the passengers of the Sirkeci–Adalar ferry are impatient, some want this journey to finish immediately, want to arrive the place where they want to go as soon as possible; and some get all the pleasure of the ferry, either watching the silhouette of Istanbul or being friends with the seagulls. The ferry sidles slowly to the first stop of the journey for the impatient passengers. The dockman is in his station… The flow of the getting off passengers gently tilts the ferry.

You find yourself on the island in a flash. Although the quietude of the island bedazzles you at first, you soon note that this is because of the shyness of meeting with you for the first time and you get more and more soothed as the shyness disappears in time.

When you get out of the pier, at the right, at the moment you see the swimming dwellers and visitors of Kınalıada, you too wish to jump into the sea but my advice, please be patient. Because, the famous Ayazma Beach at the back side of the island is waiting for you to refresh you. If you are sure of yourself to climb up the hill, you may walk to Ayazma Beach. But remember; the slope you’ll climb is very steep and the downward slope is full of pebbles! You may go to the beach without getting tired, by small boats.

Be A Guest At Ayazma

Ayazma Beach with its new and classy shape accommodates you nicely; its beach, sauna, pool and gym will supply all your want. In the restaurant part of Ayazma, you can find a medley of dishes from hamburger to fish, and from kebab to grills. I know you are longing for the sea, the pool and the sun and wish to spend your day on Ayazma Beach, but you better not stay on the beach the whole day in order to see the other beauties of the island.

Sink Into The Quietude Of The Monastery…

When coming to Kınalıada by ferry, the monastery on top of the island should have drawn your attention. I strongly recommend you to sit in the greenery near this monastery called Hristo, and get lost under the spell of the scenery. On this hill where you can see all the Anatolian Bank shoreline, it is another pleasure to watch the sunset. Above all, watching the ferries swaying the sea, and then cheering up with the chirping of the birds, listening to the sound of the wind blowing gently… They are all such joyous that… It will not be surprising if you find yourself lent to illusions under the spell of the scenery. But you better not let yourself so deep, since you may find it difficult to adapt the cacophony and stress of Istanbul when you return. It’s for your own good not to stay on the hill too long, the gentle breeze on the hill, after a certain time, may begin to disturb you without knowing. Anyhow, sitting there only for a short time gives you such a pleasure…

With the happiness and solitude, like a little prankster rolling down the hill, you may go down to the beach from the hill where the monastery is located. Also a sweet weariness folded on you there is; the best way to wear this off is to drink sage tea along with the freshest cookies specific to the island in the Dezire Patisserie on the shore and at the same time to listen to and to watch Kınalıada…

After you wear off your weariness then it is time to have a walk. This walk won’t tire you much anyway, since it takes at most twenty minutes to walk through the shore. After all you are on the smallest of the islands. It’s good to remind that Kınalıada, for its being small and steep, is the only island where there are no coaches. If you wish to tour the island by bike you may rent it.

Now It Is Time For Dinner!

It’s getting late, time for returning home is drawing near but you wish to have dinner before returning. If you prefer light dishes you should go to Cafe Pari. Both the atmosphere and the dishes of Cafe Pari will satisfy you. If your choice is fish, you may prefer the Kınalı Sofrası which will welcome you with all hospitality at the rear street of the shore way. If you are one of those who love fried mussels, it is no way that you come to Kınalıada and do not eat at Şampiyon. Mimoza Restaurant, taking its name from the mimosas that put beauty on the island in spring, is one of the nicest places where you can have your meal accompanied by live music.

No way you are leaving without eating ice-cream after dinner; Yeşil Roma Dondurması, does a super duper to the Istanbulites visiting Kınalıada and offers your cornet overloaded. While you are eating your ice-cream, the ferry appearing aloof reminds you that it is time to depart this adorable island. It is how a little kid feels bitter when leaving the visitors who amused him, made him laugh and how departure is difficult for him, you feel the same departing Kınalıada. In the great joy of having such a beautiful day, you thank to Kınalıada for its hospitality. As the ferry sidles in order to take you from the pier, you promise to the island that you will come again. But don’t make her wait too long, so may her not miss you…

How To Go?

You may go to Kınalıada by fast ferry cruises by IDO from Bostancı, Kabataş and Kadıköy piers.

Buyukada

The Princes’ Islands are a popular weekend getaway for Istanbul residents, especially during the summer, when they may enjoy the beaches and other activities. Tourists visit the islands to view and enjoy the natural beauty, electric vehicle trips, seafood restaurants, hiking trails, and swimming opportunities. The islands resemble a carnival on weekends, with huge crowds of cheerful people. Keep in mind that if you want to visit the islands during the week or during the spring or autumn seasons, you should schedule your day trip to the Princes’ Islands during those times. 

Because motor vehicles are not allowed on the island, it is perfect for anybody looking for a peaceful day or night out. On the island, electric vehicles are available for rent, or you may rent a bike and explore the Princes island on your own. 

When Should You Go To The Princes Islands?

There are also a variety of day trips accessible via authorized travel companies. It may include guided tours, overnight stays, or boat tickets to the Princes Islands. This is an excellent option, especially if you are a first-time visitor. You’ll save time and effort by not having to purchase tickets, locate a parking space amid the crowds, or arrange accommodation. As a consequence, we recommend keeping an eye out for Princes Islands vacation discounts and promotions. You will save money this way. In our view, the best time to visit Istanbul’s Islands is in the spring, when nature is at its most beautiful and lush. However, you should visit the islands during the summer to truly appreciate their potential, which includes grilled fish restaurants, delectable homemade ice cream, and other amenities. The Princes’ Islands provide something for everyone at any time of year. Check out Iamistanbul for additional natural locations in Istanbul, and be sure to immerse yourself in nature in Istanbul! Aside from historical sites like the Galata Tower and the Grand Bazaar, Istanbul has magnificent forrests, lakes, and beaches. 

Bonus: Aya Yorgi Church

The most popular attraction in the Princes’ Islands is the Aya Yorgi Church (St. George’s Church). This Orthodox church, situated atop Buyukada’s highest hill, is a really unique and peaceful setting. The church was built in 1905. People write their wishes on paper and place them in a box at the Aya Yorgi Church, or they burn candles for their wishes. Of course, they may be seen in every church throughout the world. Meanwhile, the Aya Yorgi Church has special days where it is said that if you visit the church on April 23rd or September 24th, your wishes would be fulfilled and you will be healed. Guests will return to the church with sugar and olive oil if their desires are fulfilled. Aya Yorgi Church, together with Hagia Sophia Mosque and Topkapi Palace, is one of Istanbul’s most significant historical sites.