It is possible to reach the islands by ferries departing from Kadıköy, Bostancı, and Beşiktaş. The other, uninhabited islands are Sedef Island, Tavşan Island, Vordonos Island, Yassıada, Sivriada, and Kaşık Island.
How to get to the princes islands
You can reach the islands by ferry from Kadıköy, Bostancı, and Beşiktaş. For current schedules, check the official Şehir Hatları website before you go, as routes and times may vary by season. If you are staying on the European side and planning your day around the historic center, you may also want to explore Sultanahmet Square or combine your trip with a different water route such as a Bosphorus Cruise on another day.
The best way to discover the islands can also be a full-day tour, which you can easily book from Istanbul.com.
Büyükada
Büyükada, the largest of the four inhabited islands, is also the best known and most visited. It is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, with pine trees, historic mansions, beaches, and scenic hills. At times, it can feel more like an Aegean town than a district of Istanbul. When you come to Büyükada, you can take a bike tour, windsurf, enjoy the scenery, or admire its many nostalgic mansions.
Here are the places you must see:
- Aya Yorgi Hill
- Splendid Palace Hotel
- Büyükada Greek Orphanage
- Adakule
- Trotsky's House
- Islands Museum
Kınalıada
Among the islands, Kınalıada is the closest to Istanbul. It is also the smallest of the four major islands. It takes at most half an hour on foot to walk around the entire island. Many Istanbul residents have summer houses here, and some live here both in summer and winter. You can swim from many points around the island, which is one reason it gets especially crowded in summer.
Places to see in Kınalıada:
- Dönüşüm (Conversion) Monastery
- Surp Krikor Illuminator Church
- Kınalıada Mosque
- Christos Hill
- Christos Monastery
- Panagia Greek Orthodox Church
Heybeliada
Heybeliada, the second largest of the Princes' Islands, has in recent years become a place preferred by many young people and artists from Istanbul for permanent residence. While visiting the historic sites of this small island, you can find traces of Turkey's cosmopolitan and culturally rich texture.
- Greek Orthodox Seminary
- Süslü Mezar
- Nicholas Church
- Aya Yorgi Cliff Monastery
- Bet Yaakov Synagogue
- Değirmenburnu
Burgazada
The name Burgazada comes from the Greek word “Pyrgos,” meaning tower; later it was translated into Turkish and turned into “burgaz.” This island has been the subject of many paintings and literary works throughout history and has hosted important names. It remains one of the most atmospheric stops in the archipelago.
Here are some places you should visit to witness the cultural richness of Burgazada:
- Aya Yorgi Garibi Monastery
- Kalpazankaya
- Jesus Hill
- Christos Monastery
- Aya Yani Church
- Burgazada Mosque
What each island is like
Büyükada is the most popular island, especially at weekends. Renting a bike is a classic way to explore its streets of old mansions, and the Islands Museum (Adalar Müzesi) introduces the history of the archipelago. The former Prinkipo Greek Orphanage is considered one of the largest wooden buildings in Europe.
Heybeliada is the greenest island, known for its pine forests and clear water for swimming, sailing and rowing. The Naval High School is the first landmark you see when you arrive, and the Aya Yorgi Cliff Monastery (Hagios Georgios tou Kremnou) has a striking setting among pine trees above the sea.
Burgazada, the third largest, is the quietest of the four and less crowded than the others. Its mosque, synagogue and Greek churches reflect the different communities that lived here, and its hills offer rewarding walks with wide sea views.
Kınalıada, the smallest and the closest to Istanbul, takes its name ("henna island") from its reddish soil. In the past it was home mostly to Armenians, and its calm bays are good for a swim on a short trip.
Plan your day trip to the Princes' Islands
A day trip to the islands is popular because it offers a complete contrast to the energy of central Istanbul. You can spend your time walking through quiet streets, enjoying sea views, stopping at small beaches, and discovering religious and cultural landmarks across the four inhabited islands. If you want background on the islands' wider history, the Princes' Islands overview is a useful starting point.
If your Istanbul itinerary already includes major landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, the islands make an especially relaxing follow-up day. They are ideal for travelers who want nature, local atmosphere, and a change of pace without leaving Istanbul behind entirely.
Discover the Princes' Islands with Istanbul.com
If you want to discover the beauty of the Princes' Islands with ease and convenience, Istanbul.com offers tour options for a scenic journey through the Sea of Marmara. During the trip, you can enjoy views of Istanbul's skyline and explore the charming streets of Büyükada, the largest of the Princes' Islands, while getting a closer look at the island's history and culture.
For travelers who prefer a more organized experience, booking in advance can make the day smoother. A full-day option may also include chances to explore lesser-known corners along the way and enjoy the islands at a more relaxed pace.
