How to Get to Princes Islands from Istanbul and Back: Full Ferries Guide (2023)

Istanbul, a city that straddles two continents, offers countless unique experiences for travelers. One of the highlights is a journey to the Princes’ Islands, a group of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara, where the hustle and bustle of the city gives way to a peaceful and serene atmosphere. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various ferry options available for you to embark on a memorable trip to Istanbul’s Princes’ Islands.

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Read also:

Istanbul’s Princes’ Islands: A Journey Through Time and Nature

A Brief History

These charming islands, also known as the Adalar, were named after the Byzantine and Ottoman princes who were exiled here. Today, they are a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, who come to enjoy their car-free streets, lush greenery, and magnificent Ottoman-era mansions.

Which Island to Visit?

Among the nine islands, four are open to visitors: Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada. Each island has its own unique charm, with Büyükada being the largest and most popular. It’s also home to the picturesque Aya Yorgi Church and Monastery. Heybeliada, the second-largest island, is known for its lush pine forests and the impressive Naval Academy. Burgazada and Kınalıada are smaller in size but equally charming, offering quaint streets, stunning views, and a more peaceful experience. Read more…

Discover the Enchantment of Princes’ Islands

Immerse yourself in serenity; embark on a Princes’ Islands Tour. Let expert guides unravel the Islands’ rich tapestry, steeped in history and brimming with natural beauty:

Navigating the Ferries to the Princes’ Islands

Embarking on a ferry ride is an essential part of the Istanbul experience, and there are several options available for reaching the Princes’ Islands. The main operators are Şehir Hatları, TurYol, Prenstur, Dentur, and Mavi Marmara.

Read our full guide how to use Ferries in Istanbul >>

💡 Tip: To find routes and schedules, visit Adalardan.net.

Map of the Ferries to Adalar (Prince’ Islands)

Şehir Hatları Ferries

Şehir Hatları, Istanbul’s official ferry company, operates multiple daily voyages from Eminönü to Kadıköy, Kınalıada, Burgazada, Heybeliada, and Büyükada. There are also at least four daily ferries between Bostancı and the islands at the same price.

The full fare with Istanbul Card is 28.27 TL.

Tips for Şehir Hatları Ferries

These ferries fill up quickly, so arrive at least 15-30 minutes before departure to secure a good seat.
The best time to use Şehir Hatları Ferries is during off-peak hours, as they can hold up to 1500 passengers and still fill to capacity.
Plan your return trip from the islands early to avoid the overcrowded last ferries.

Şehir Hatları Ferry Lines

Kabataş – Kadikoy – Adalar
Adalar – Kadikoy – Beşiktaş
Bostancı – Adalar Circuit Line
Maltepe – Büyükada – Heybeliada – Burgazada – Kınalıada Lines

For the complete list of lines, check the official Şehir Hatları website. You can also download the PDF timetable here.

TurYol: Lines and Schedule

TurYol offers four major lines to the Princes’ Islands:

Eminönü – Büyükada – Heybeliada – Kınalıada Lines (50TL)
Kadıköy Metro Port – Büyükada – Heybeliada – Kınalıada Lines (50TL)
Karaköy Port – Büyükada – Heybeliada – Kınalıada Lines (50TL)

The lines from the islands only go to Kadıköy and Eminönü. Check schedules at turyol.com.

Sail Away on a Dream: Princes’ Islands Cruise

Embark on an enchanting journey across the azure waves. A Princes’ Islands cruise offers resplendent vistas and the allure of the open sea. Revel in the luxury of a guided tour, eschewing bustling public ferries for the tranquility of a private vessel.

Prenstur and Dentur

Prenstur operates 19 trips a day from Kartal to the Princes’ Islands at approximately 50 TL. Visit prenstur.net for more information.

Dentur offers ferries from Besiktas, Kabatas and Eminonu with the following schedule:

To Prince Islands

DEPARTS			ARRIVALS
BEŞİKTAŞ	KABATAŞ	EMİNÖNÜ	HEYBELİADA	BÜYÜKADA
09:30	09:45	10:00	11:00	11:15
11:30	11:45	12:00	13:00	13:15

From Prince Islands

DEPARTS		ARRIVALS
BÜYÜKADA	HEYBELİADA	EMİNÖNÜ	KABATAŞ	BEŞİKTAŞ
14:30	14:45	15:45	16:00	16:15
15:30	15:45	16:45	17:00	17:15

Fares are approximately 50TL. Visit denturavrasya.com for more details.

Mavi Marmara

Mavi Marmara operates ferry lines from Bostancı, Kabataş, Beşiktaş, and Eminönü. For schedules and more information, visit mavimarmara.net.

Conclusion

Istanbul’s Princes’ Islands are a must-visit for any traveler seeking a tranquil escape from the bustling city. With numerous ferry options, including Şehir Hatları, TurYol, Prenstur, Dentur, and Mavi Marmara, visitors can easily access the islands’ stunning landscapes and historical treasures. By following our tips and recommendations, travelers can enjoy a seamless journey to and from the Princes’ Islands, creating unforgettable memories along the way.

FAQs

How do I get to the Princes’ Islands from Istanbul?

There are several ferry companies offering services to the Princes’ Islands, including Şehir Hatları, TurYol, Prenstur, Dentur, and Mavi Marmara. The schedules and fares vary, so be sure to check each company’s website for the most up-to-date information.

Which Princes’ Island should I visit?

Büyükada is the largest and most popular island, offering a range of attractions and activities. Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada are smaller but also worth visiting for their charming atmosphere and historical sites.

What is the ferry schedule to the Princes’ Islands?

Ferry schedules vary by company and season. Visit the respective company’s website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on schedules and fares.

How much does a ferry ticket to the Princes’ Islands cost?

Ferry ticket prices vary depending on the company and route. Prices range from 28.27 TL with an Istanbul card on Şehir Hatları ferries to around 50 TL for TurYol, Prenstur, Dentur, and Mavi Marmara services.

Where can I buy a ferry ticket to the Princes’ Islands?

You can purchase ferry tickets at the ticket booths near the departure points, or on some company websites.