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Located just 17km away from the shores of Istanbul are nine small islands called the Princes Islands. The islands, called Adalar in Turkish, got their English name as they were once used as the exile of royalty during the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. Among the islands, only four are developed and open to the public: Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, Kınalıada, and Sedef Island. We have prepared a Prince Islands Travel Guide with every detail, from food and drink to places to visit and beaches. Let’s take a look together!
How to Get to the Princes Islands
To get to the islands from the European side, take a ferry from Kabataş, Eminönü, or Karaköy. From the Anatolian side, take a ferry from Kadıköy, Kartal, Bostancı, Maltepe, or Avcılar piers. To access the ferry timetable, visit the official website of Istanbul City Lines at the web site. Read more…
If you have an Istanbul tourist pass, you can take one free trip to the Princes Islands. This is a great way to save money and explore the islands at your own pace. Keep in mind that the tourist pass must be valid for the day of your trip and you will still need to pay for any additional trips.
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Ferry Prices to Adalar
As of January 2024, the current ferry price to Adalar (Princes Islands) is 57.94 TL with an Istanbul Card. Keep in mind that these prices are subject to change and may vary depending on factors such as time of day and day of the week. For the most up-to-date information, visit the official website of Istanbul City Lines at the web site.
Kınalıada Island
Kınalıada Island is the nearest island to the shores of Istanbul. It is also the only island among all the islands with a beach. Most visitors go to Kınalıada Island to enjoy a nice time on the beach by swimming or just lazing on the sun loungers, as there are not many other activities to do there compared to the other three islands. It is also the smallest island among all four.
Here are some must-see places to add to your itinerary for Kınalıada Island:
- Kınalıada Beach: This is the only beach on Kınalıada Island and is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
- Hristos Monastery: This historic Greek Orthodox monastery was founded in the late 19th century and is still in operation today.
- The Hill of Hope: This hill offers a stunning panoramic view of the island and the sea.
In addition to these must-see places, visitors to Kınalıada Island can also enjoy a leisurely stroll along the island’s scenic coastline, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters off the beach, and sample some of the island’s delicious seafood dishes.
Kınalıada Island is also home to several charming cafes and restaurants, where visitors can relax and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while taking in the island’s laid-back atmosphere.
Overall, Kınalıada Island is a great choice for anyone looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul. With its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and delicious cuisine, this island is sure to delight visitors of all ages and interests.
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Burgazada Island
Burgaz Island is the third smallest island, with an area of only 1.5 square km, situated right after Kınalıada Island. Burgaz is considered a sleeping island due to its calm and quiet vibe, as very few tourists actually choose to visit this island. For anyone looking for a relaxing day break from the chaotic city of Istanbul, Burgaz is the place to be!
Here are some must-see places to add to your itinerary for Burgazada Island:
- Burgazada Beach: This is the only beach on Burgaz Island and is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
- Church of St. John: This historic church was built in the late 19th century and is a great example of Byzantine architecture.
- The Monastery of St. Therapon: This Greek Orthodox monastery was founded in the early 20th century and is still in operation today.
- The Clock Tower: This clock tower is located at the center of the island and is a popular landmark.
Heybeliada Island
The second-largest island in the Princes Islands is Heybeliada Island. Less crowded than its mighty neighbor Büyükada, Heybeliada has a mystical pine forest and hills apt for strolling along with some Victorian-era buildings and houses. If anyone wants to stay a night on this island, there are a bunch of good hotels for an overnight stay.
Planning a visit to Heybeliada Island
If you’re planning a visit to Heybeliada Island, here are some must-see places to add to your itinerary:
- Military High School: This historic school was built in the late 19th century and is a great example of Ottoman architecture.
- Halki Theological School: This Greek Orthodox school was founded in 1844 and is still in operation today.
- Hamidiye Mosque: This beautiful mosque was built in the late 19th century and is a great example of Ottoman architecture.
- The Monastery of the Transfiguration: This Greek Orthodox monastery was founded in the early 20th century and is still in operation today.
- The Hill of Hope: This hill offers a stunning panoramic view of the island and the sea.
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Büyükada Island
Büyükada Island is the largest and most popular among all the Princes Islands, located just 17km away from the shores of Istanbul. This island offers plenty of activities for visitors and is a perfect day trip destination. Taking a tour of the island by horse-drawn carriage is a popular activity and a great way to see the island’s historic buildings and scenic landscapes. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes and sunscreen, and enjoy your visit to Büyükada Island!
If you’re planning a visit to Büyükada Island, here are some must-see places to add to your itinerary:
- Ayia Yorgi Church and Monastery: This historic church and monastery are located at the top of a hill and offer breathtaking views of the island and the sea.
- Büyükada Beach: This is the most popular beach on the island and is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
- Hamidiye Mosque: This beautiful mosque was built in the late 19th century and is a great example of Ottoman architecture.
- The Prinkipo Greek Orphanage: This orphanage was built in the early 20th century and is now abandoned, but it’s still an impressive sight to see.
- Nizam Restaurant: This seafood restaurant is located on the seafront and offers delicious food with stunning views.
- Climb to Adakule, the island’s fire tower, and watch the beautiful view of the island.
- Horse-drawn carriage tour: Taking a tour of the island by horse-drawn carriage is a popular activity and a great way to see the island’s historic buildings and scenic landscapes.
- The most beautiful sunset place of the day: Aya Yorgi Hill
Remember to bring comfortable shoes and sunscreen, and enjoy your visit to Büyükada Island!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a break from the chaos of city life, the Princes Islands near Istanbul are a must-visit destination. These islands offer scenic coastlines, historic landmarks, and delicious cuisine that are sure to entice visitors of all ages and interests.
Each island has its own unique charm, making it difficult to choose which one to explore first. Whether you want to relax on beautiful beaches, take a dip in crystal-clear waters, or sample some of the region’s famous seafood dishes, the Princes Islands have something for everyone.
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