If you’re visiting Istanbul and craving a change of scenery, a trip to the Princes Islands offers a peaceful escape with some lovely scenery and a bit of local flavor. There are several tours available, but this particular full-day guided experience, which includes a boat cruise, island exploration, and a traditional Turkish lunch, really stands out for its balance of convenience, value, and the chance to see multiple islands in one go.
We’ve read through a good number of reviews and the tour’s details to give you the honest, practical insight you need. What we love about this trip is how smoothly it runs—especially with the organized pickup, guided commentary, and included lunch. The scenic boat ride across the Marmara Sea is a highlight, and the chance to get some free time at each stop makes it flexible enough for different types of travelers.
On the flip side, a potential consideration is the early pickup and the sometimes lengthy initial transfer process, which might feel a bit slow if you’re eager to start exploring right away. This tour is well-suited for those who want a manageable day trip with guidance, good views, and local flavor, without the hassle of planning everything on your own.
Key Points
- Convenient logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off make the day stress-free.
- Beautiful boat cruise across the Marmara Sea offers a relaxing start to the day.
- Guided exploration of Heybeliada and Büyükada provides historical and scenic insights.
- Includes a hearty Turkish lunch with water, adding value for the price.
- Free time in each island lets you explore at your own pace, with optional swimming in summer.
- Shopping stop at the end offers a chance to pick up souvenirs but may extend the day.
An Overview of the Princes Islands Guided Tour
This tour is designed to give you a full day on the Princes Islands, primarily visiting two of the most popular spots: Heybeliada and Büyükada. The experience starts early, with hotel pickups from key locations in Istanbul—ranging from Sultanahmet to Taksim. You’ll meet your guide at the port, board a boat, and then enjoy roughly an hour of cruising across the calm waters of the Marmara Sea. This boat ride is generally quite pleasant, often praised for its relaxed pace and scenic views.
The tour’s pace is moderate, allowing ample time for sightseeing, a relaxed lunch, and free time at each location. After the boat reaches Heybeliada, travelers have some free time to explore the greenest of the islands, known for its lush landscape and historic sites. Later, the group moves on to Büyükada, the largest of the islands, famous for its stunning sea views and more extensive walking options.
The Islands: Heybeliada and Büyükada
Heybeliada is often the first stop. It’s renowned for its natural beauty and peaceful vibe. During the guided visit, you’ll learn about the island’s history, and afterward, you have some free time. Many travelers appreciate the chance to wander independently, perhaps enjoying the local cafes or scenic streets. Some reviews mention that the guide is very informative, which enhances the experience.
Following that, the group heads to Büyükada. Here, after a guided explanation of the key sights, there’s a planned break for lunch. You’ll enjoy a filling Turkish meal, often described as delicious and satisfying. The included water helps keep you hydrated, especially if the weather is warm.
Free Time and Optional Activities
Post-lunch, you’re given some free time to explore more or relax. If you’re visiting during the summer, swimming might be an option, although it’s not guaranteed and depends on the weather and season. Some travelers mentioned that they appreciated the freedom to roam, but others found the driving around the island without stops a bit monotonous, so if you prefer walking or cycling, you might wish to bring your own bike.
Return and Shopping
After a full day, the tour concludes with a shopping stop—a chance to browse local shops for souvenirs or leather goods. Then, the group is transported back to Istanbul, often arriving in the late afternoon or early evening.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat Makes This Tour Stand Out
The boat ride is a major highlight, providing a relaxing and scenic start. You’ll love the way the breeze feels in your hair and the views of the islands as you cruise across the Marmara Sea. Many reviews highlight how enjoyable and calming this part of the trip is, with some calling it an “amazing experience” for the scenery alone.
Guided insights add a lot of value. The tour guide is usually praised for being knowledgeable, helpful, and giving informative commentary during the stops. This elevates the experience beyond just wandering around on your own.
Included lunch adds to the overall value, giving you a hearty, traditional Turkish meal without extra expense or planning. The vegetarian options aren’t specified, but most tours tend to cater to a range of dietary needs, so if you have special requirements, it’s worth confirming in advance.
Price and Value
At $44 per person, this tour offers fairly good value, considering that it covers hotel transfers, ferry tickets, guided explanations, and a full meal. For a 7-hour experience, it balances convenience with the chance to see a lot. The reviews support the idea that you’re getting a worthwhile experience, especially with the guided narration and included amenities.
However, keep in mind that some travelers found the early pickups and the long initial transfer a bit time-consuming. If you’re not a morning person or prefer a more flexible schedule, this might be a consideration.
Practical Tips for the Tour
- Bring your passport or ID as it’s listed as necessary.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the islands, especially Büyükada, which involves some walking.
- Dress appropriately for the weather—sun protection in summer and layers in cooler months.
- If you want to swim, plan to visit during the summer, as swimming is only available during warm months.
- Be aware of extra expenses such as drinks at lunch and ferry fees if you want additional beverages beyond what’s included.
- Scheduling and timing: the tour starts between 8:00 and 9:15 am, but exact times depend on availability. The whole day lasts around 7 hours.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free day trip from Istanbul, allowing them to see the Princes Islands without the need to organize transport or meals independently. It suits those who appreciate scenic boat rides, guided commentary, and a relaxed pace. Families with older children might enjoy the day, especially if they’re comfortable with walking and boat trips.
If you’re after a quick, scenic escape that combines nature, history, and local culture, this tour hits most of those points. However, if you prefer a more active or independent exploration, or if mobility is a concern, you might want to consider other options or customizing your own visit.
Istanbul: Full Day Princes Islands Guided Tour with Lunch
“The tour was an amazing experience. Not only because the views of the Islands but we are very pleased with the organization and logistics of the co…”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup is available from several key areas like Sultanahmet, Taksim, and Şişli.
How long is the boat cruise? The boat ride lasts about an hour each way, offering lovely views and a relaxing start to the day.
Does the tour include lunch? Yes, a Turkish lunch with one water is included, and it’s generally well-reviewed for its presentation and flavor.
Can I swim during the trip? Swimming is only available during the summer months and might require additional planning.
Are there any extra costs I should be aware of? Drinks at lunch and ferry tickets are included, but personal expenses, additional drinks, and optional transportation like bikes or electric vehicles are not.
Is this tour suitable for children? It’s not explicitly mentioned, but it seems more fitting for older children who are comfortable with walking and boat rides.
What is the group size like? This isn’t specified, but it’s generally a group tour, which typically means a manageable number of travelers.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.
Is it a good value for the price? Most reviews suggest yes, especially considering the guided service, boat ride, lunch, and hotel transfers.
In summary, this Princes Islands tour offers a practical and scenic way to experience the beauty of Istanbul’s nearby islands without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s a solid choice if you want guided insights, a scenic boat journey, and a relaxed day exploring some of Turkey’s charming coastal spots. While it might involve early mornings and some group logistics, the overall experience tends to leave travelers with pleasant memories and good value for money.
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