What Are the Princes' Islands?

The Princes' Islands (Adalar in Turkish) are an archipelago of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara, about 18km southeast of Istanbul. Only four are inhabited: Büyükada (the largest and most popular), Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada. Named after Byzantine princes who were exiled here, the islands served as a place of banishment, a Greek Orthodox spiritual center, and later a summer retreat for Istanbul's wealthy. Today, they're car-free havens where the only transport is electric vehicles, bicycles, and walking.

Büyükada — The Big Island

Büyükada is the main attraction and the largest of the Princes' Islands. Its streets are lined with grand Victorian-era wooden mansions (köşks) built by Ottoman-era Greek, Armenian, and Jewish families. The Aya Yorgi Church and Monastery sits atop the island's highest hill, offering panoramic views of the Sea of Marmara and Istanbul's distant skyline. The island's beaches, particularly Yörükali, are popular swimming spots in summer. The harbor front is lined with seafood restaurants serving the day's fresh catch.

How to Get There

Public ferries from Kabataş (European side) or Kadıköy (Asian side) reach Büyükada in about 75–90 minutes. Faster sea bus services (İDO) take about 45 minutes. You can also take a guided Princes' Islands tour from Istanbul which includes ferry tickets, a guide, lunch, and island exploration — typically an 8-hour full-day experience. The guided tour is the most convenient option as it handles all logistics and includes commentary about the islands' history.

What to Do

Cycle around Büyükada's perimeter road (about 12km) for stunning coastal views. Visit the Aya Yorgi Church at the hilltop — the walk up through pine forests is beautiful. Explore the island's charming back streets with their flower-draped wooden mansions. Have a traditional Turkish lunch at a waterfront restaurant. Swim at one of the beaches (best in summer). Browse the handicraft shops along the main street. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride (phaeton) — though these are being phased out in favor of electric vehicles.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) are ideal — pleasant weather without summer crowds. Summer weekends can be extremely busy with Istanbul residents escaping the city heat. Winter visits are quiet and atmospheric, with fewer tourists and a melancholic beauty to the empty mansions. If visiting in summer, take an early morning ferry to avoid crowds and secure a good lunch spot.