stanbul: Prince Island Full Day Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul and want a little escape from the city’s bustling streets, a full-day tour to the Princes Islands might just be what you need. While I haven’t done this specific tour myself, I’ve gathered enough to give you an honest, detailed look at what you can expect. It’s a popular choice for those wanting to combine scenic views, some light activity, and a taste of local island life—all in one day.

What I really like about this experience is that it offers a mix of fun and relaxation. First, there’s the buggy tour of Büyükada, which gives you a chance to see the island’s charming streets in a fun, breezy way. Then, the local lunch is a highlight—nothing beats tasting authentic flavors in a cozy setting. Plus, the ferry ride back to Istanbul is the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the views.

One thing to keep in mind is the timing—this tour starts around 9:30 AM and lasts roughly 7 hours, so it’s a full day out. If you’re someone who loves a well-structured schedule and easy transportation, this could be ideal. However, if you prefer more flexibility or are traveling with very young children, you’d want to check how the pace suits your group. Overall, it suits travelers seeking a relaxed yet engaging day in nature with some cultural touches.

Key Points

• Conveniently organized with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Includes a scenic ferry ride, adding a scenic element to the day.
• Buggy tour of Büyükada offers a fun way to explore the island’s highlights.
• Local lunch provides a taste of authentic island flavors.
• Flexible cancellation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• English-speaking guide to enrich your experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Relaxed Day on the Princes Islands

This tour is built for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, light adventure, and downtime. The day begins with a pickup from your hotel—an often appreciated feature as it saves you the hassle of navigating public transport early in the morning. Once you’re on the boat, the 1.5-hour ferry ride is a pleasant start, offering the chance to settle in and enjoy the views of the Marmara Sea.

Exploring Büyükada by Buggy

The star of this tour is undoubtedly the buggy ride around Büyükada. This isn’t just a practical way to cover more ground; it’s a fun experience that lets you soak in the island’s charm at a relaxed pace. You’ll see historic mansions, quiet streets, and scenic vistas—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

According to reviews, visitors love the stunning views from the island, and this buggy tour is a great way to get a good overview without too much walking. One person remarked, “We loved the way the buggy allowed us to see everything without feeling exhausted.” This suggests the ride strikes a good balance between being engaging and manageable, especially for those who prefer to avoid long walks.

Lunch and Island Charm

After the buggy tour, the group takes a break at a local restaurant for a delicious, authentic lunch. The focus on local flavors is often noted as a highlight, giving you a true taste of the island’s culinary offerings. You’ll find that the meal adds a cultural touch to the experience, making it more than just sightseeing.

Following lunch, there’s usually some free time for sightseeing, shopping, or taking photos. Visitors might explore the quaint streets, visit local shops, or simply enjoy the scenic views—your guide will likely point out the best spots.

Returning to Istanbul by Ferry

The day wraps up with a return ferry ride back to Istanbul, lasting around 1.5 hours. This part of the tour is perfect for unwinding, enjoying the sea breeze, and reflecting on the day. The ferry approach allows you to see the city skyline from afar—an iconic Istanbul view that’s hard to beat.

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The Tour Experience in Detail

Itinerary Breakdown

• Pickup at Fahrettini Acemi Sk. No:6: A central location that makes pickup straightforward, though it’s worth confirming if your hotel is nearby.
• Ferry to Princes Islands (1.5 hours): The scenic journey offers a relaxed start, with chances to snap photos of passing islands and sea views.
• Büyükada Exploration (3 hours): The core of the tour. You’ll enjoy a buggy ride that covers the island’s tranquil streets, historic mansions, and panoramic views. The ride is especially praised for making sightseeing accessible and fun.
• Lunch (1 hour): A local restaurant serves up regional flavors, providing a hearty break.
• Additional sightseeing/shopping (optional): Depending on your group, there may be time for quick visits to local shops or photo stops.
• Return ferry and drop-off: Giving you a scenic, restful end to the day.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers often mention the stunning views and the relaxed pace as major wins. One shared, “The buggy tour was a highlight—easy to do and incredibly scenic.” Others appreciated that the tour is well-organized and convenient, especially with included hotel pickup and drop-off, which removes the hassle of planning transportation.

Some note that the timing is quite full—7 hours can feel long if you prefer a more leisurely pace, but most find it manageable. The included lunch is often praised for its authenticity and quality, making the cost of $68 per person feel reasonable considering the packed itinerary and included transportation.

Possible Downsides

While the overall experience garners positive reviews, a few travelers mention that the buggy ride might not be for everyone, especially if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer more traditional sightseeing. Also, the schedule is quite packed, so those seeking a more relaxed or unstructured day might find it a bit hurried.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travellers looking for a well-organized, full-day escape from Istanbul’s busy streets. It works particularly well for those who enjoy scenic views, casual adventure, and local cuisine. If you’re traveling with family, the buggy ride’s fun factor might be a hit—though always consider the age and mobility of young children.

It’s also suited for first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of the islands without the hassle of planning multiple trips. If you’re someone who values comfortable transportation, guided commentary, and a structured schedule, this tour will tick those boxes.

The Sum Up

This Prince Island Full Day Tour offers a balanced glimpse of Büyükada’s natural beauty, historic charm, and relaxed island life. The combination of a buggy tour, a local meal, and scenic ferry rides makes for a memorable, visually stunning outing. It’s perfect for travelers who want a gentle day of exploration, with enough structure to keep things moving smoothly.

While the schedule is quite packed, most find that the highlights—beautiful views, fun rides, and authentic flavors—make it worthwhile. It’s a solid choice for those who prefer a guided experience that maximizes sightseeing without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

If you’re after a day in nature, some light adventure, and a taste of local life, this tour hits the mark. Just be prepared for a full day out and bring your camera for all the stunning views.

FAQ

How long is the ferry ride to Princes Islands?
The ferry ride takes approximately 1.5 hours each way, providing a relaxing journey with scenic views.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, the ferry rides, a buggy tour of Büyükada, and a local lunch.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the buggy tour and relaxed schedule could appeal to families, but consider the age and mobility of children before booking.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

What language is the guide in?
The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for most travelers.

How much time do I get for sightseeing on the island?
You’ll have around 3 hours for sightseeing, photos, shopping, and relaxing on Büyükada.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a local meal is included as part of the tour, offering a taste of regional flavors.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the views.

Who is this tour best suited for?
It’s ideal for travelers seeking an organized, scenic day out that balances light activity with plenty of relaxation.

If this sounds like the kind of day you’d enjoy, it’s a straightforward way to experience the beauty of the Princes Islands without the fuss. Just remember to check availability and start times, and you’ll be set for a lovely escape from Istanbul’s hustle.

You can check availability for your dates here: