Boat Trip to the Princes Islands: Hop On
The princes islands are one of Istanbul’s favorite escapes for anyone who needs a break from the city’s fast pace. Once associated with exile in Byzantine times, today these islands in the Sea of Marmara are known for peaceful streets, historic buildings, sea views, and a slower rhythm of life.
A boat trip is part of the experience. During the journey, many visitors enjoy Turkish tea, freshly baked simit, and the open views across the water. Since the crossing itself does not take too long, taking an early boat is a good idea if you want to make the most of your day. For another scenic ride on the water, you can also look at a Bosphorus Cruise.
Each island has its own character, with different historical landmarks, natural beauty, and walking routes. Whether you want to learn more about local history, spend time by the sea, ride a bike, or simply enjoy a quiet atmosphere, the Princes’ Islands offer a refreshing change of scenery.
The Princes Islands: Main Islands to Explore
The Princes’ Islands consist of 9 islands in the Sea of Marmara, and they have become one of the most popular getaways from Istanbul. Some visitors come for the history, others for the beaches, pine forests, and island atmosphere. Among them, Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada are the best known for day trips.
If your Istanbul itinerary also includes the city’s historic monuments such as Topkapi Palace or the waterfront elegance of Dolmabahce Palace, the islands offer a very different side of Istanbul: quieter, greener, and slower.
Büyükada (Big Island): The Largest One of the Princes' Islands
Büyükada is the largest and one of the most popular islands in the archipelago. It is especially favored on weekends by people looking for fresh air and a calm atmosphere away from metropolitan life.
As soon as you arrive, you will notice the warm ambiance of the island. Bakeries known for their cookies and ice cream shops famous for Büyükada’s ice creams are among the first places that catch the eye.
One of the classic activities here is renting a bike and wandering around the island. Riding through the streets lined with picturesque pavilions and postcard-like corners is one of the best ways to experience Büyükada’s dreamy character.
Adalar Müzesi, the Museum of the Princes’ Islands, is one of the most useful stops if you want to learn more about the islands. The museum gives visitors a closer look at the history and identity of this remarkable archipelago.
Hagia Yorgi Church, also known as the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George, is one of the two pilgrimage points of Christians in Turkey. It stands at the top of the island at YüceTepe. If you enjoy walking, the route up is rewarding, and even if hiking is not usually your thing, the short climb is worth it for the view waiting at the top.
The Prinkipo Greek Orphanage, also known as Prinkipo Palace or Büyükada Greek Orphanage, is another important site on the island. It is considered one of the most prominent wooden buildings in Europe and the second-largest in the world.
Heybeliada: The Greenest Island of the Princes’ Islands
Heybeliada, also called Saddlebag Island, is especially known for its pine forests. Its natural landscape, filled with different shades of green, is one of its defining features and one of the main reasons people love spending a full day here.
One of the popular things to do on the island is taking a tour by electric automobile. Like Büyükada, Heybeliada also features elegant pavilions and attractive historic architecture. Its beaches and clear waters make it a pleasant summer destination, and visitors also come here for activities such as sailing and rowing.
When you arrive on Heybeliada, the Naval High School—one of the symbols of the island—stands out right away. The War Academy and the Sanatorium are also important parts of Heybeliada’s identity.
The island is also home to many historic churches and monasteries. Hagios Georgios tou Kremnou, also known as Hagia Yorgi Monastery, is one of the best known. The phrase “tou Kremnou” means “on the verge of a cliff,” and the monastery’s setting among pine trees and above striking views gives it a memorable atmosphere.
Burgazada: The Most Peaceful of the Princes' Islands
Burgazada is ideal for those who want a calmer, quieter, and more peaceful day. As the third largest of the Princes’ Islands, it is known for being less crowded and more relaxed than some of the other islands.
Burgazada carries traces of a layered past and reflects a cultural heritage shaped by different communities, nations, and ethnicities. Mosques, synagogues, and Greek churches all help tell the story of the island’s history.
If your idea of a perfect island day includes walking through narrow streets, enjoying silence, and taking in sea views, Burgazada is a wonderful choice. Hiking here is especially rewarding, with panoramic views that show the beauty of the islands in rich color.
Kınalıada (Henna Island): The Closest Island to Istanbul
Kınalıada, also called Henna Island, gets its name from its red soil. It is the smallest of the Princes’ Islands and the closest one to Istanbul, which makes it a practical option for a shorter escape.
It is known that Kınalıada hosted mostly Armenians in the past, and visitors can still notice traces of that cultural presence. The island offers a social and local atmosphere, and it is also a pleasant place to swim in the calm waters of its bays and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea.
Planning Your Visit
If you are visiting the Princes’ Islands for the first time, starting early is the best way to enjoy the day at a comfortable pace. You can check current ferry routes and schedules on the official Şehir Hatları website. For a broader overview of the islands’ background, the Princes' Islands page on Wikipedia is also a helpful reference.
Whether you choose Büyükada for its landmarks, Heybeliada for its greenery, Burgazada for its calm streets, or Kınalıada for a quick seaside break, the islands remain one of the most enjoyable ways to step away from Istanbul’s bustle.
