Istanbul: Princes’ Islands Tour with Lunch and Transfers

If you’re considering a day trip out of Istanbul, the Princes’ Islands Tour with Lunch and Transfers is often recommended as a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. This tour promises a chance to see some of the most beautiful spots in the Sea of Marmara, with visits to Heybeliada and Buyukada, plus a scenic ferry ride and a traditional Turkish lunch.

What we like about this experience is how it combines effortless logistics—hotel pickup, transfers, and a boat cruise—with the opportunity to slow down and enjoy charming island scenery. The boat ride offers fantastic views of landmarks like Topkapi Palace and the Maiden’s Tower, which makes the journey visually appealing. Plus, the chance to explore island streets free of cars and relax at sandy bays or in quiet pine forests appeals to those wanting a break from city noise.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour’s duration—around 8 hours—means some travelers might find the long boat ride tiring, especially if they are prone to seasickness or prefer more time on the islands than on the water. Also, while the included lunch is appreciated at this price point, some reviews mention it being quite basic. Still, for an affordable price, it’s a solid way to see the islands without overthinking the logistics.

This tour is a great fit if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic day with easy logistics and are okay with a fair amount of time on a boat. It suits travelers who want a quick escape, enjoy sightseeing from the water, and don’t mind a busy schedule. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate value, as the tour offers quite a lot for just $28.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $28, this tour offers good value for a day of sightseeing and relaxing.
• Convenient Logistics: Includes hotel pickup, transfers, ferry tickets, and lunch—making it a hassle-free experience.
• Beautiful Views: Passengers enjoy sights of Topkapi Palace and Maiden’s Tower from the ferry.
• Island Experience: Visit two of the most popular Princes’ Islands—Buyukada and Heybeliada—with options for walking, relaxing, or renting electric cars.
• Food & Atmosphere: The included lunch is basic but tasty enough; the boat’s lively atmosphere is often highlighted in reviews.
• Long Water Journey: Expect about 1.5 hours on the boat each way, which some find long but offers stunning views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Tour Itself

Start and Transportation

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Istanbul, which is a real perk for those staying centrally or busy with sightseeing plans. Once you’re picked up, you’re transferred by air-conditioned bus to the port. This setup is a major plus—it means you don’t have to worry about navigating public transport or dealing with taxis early in the day.

The Ferry Ride

The highlight of the journey is the ferry cruise across the Sea of Marmara, where you’ll see sights like Topkapi Palace and Leanders Tower from the water. This part of the trip is not only scenic but also relaxing, offering a different perspective of Istanbul’s skyline.

Travelers often mention the boat’s atmosphere—with lively music, a DJ, and a friendly crew, making the trip feel more like a casual cruise than a stiff tour. One reviewer said the announcers and Turkish dancing on the return trip added entertainment, which suggests that the boat experience is lively and engaging.

First Stop: Buyukada

Buyukada, the largest of the islands, is where most of the exploring happens. Once on the island, you’ll find old buildings, mansions, and villas that hint at its past. The island is car-free, which makes walking around peaceful and safe—perfect for strolling or lounging at the beaches.

One of the biggest draws here is the chance to rent electric cars for about 25 minutes, giving you a quick tour and a taste of island life. Several reviews mention how enjoyable this is, providing a manageable way to see more of the island without tiring out.

You’ll also have time to walk along the coast, enjoy the scenic bays, or relax under the pine trees. Some visitors recommend renting bikes or just relaxing in the quiet, appreciating the slower pace of life. The island’s architecture and serene environment are often praised, making this stop a highlight.

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Lunch on the Boat

Midday, you’ll enjoy a lunch served on the boat. Reviews mention the food as basic but decent, perfectly adequate considering the price. It’s more about the convenience and the experience of eating with a view, rather than gourmet cuisine.

Second Stop: Heybeliada or Kinaliada

After lunch, the tour takes you to the second island—Heybeliada—which offers more opportunities for walking, relaxing, or exploring. Some reviews note that the short stops can feel a bit rushed, but this is the trade-off with a full-day tour.

Return and Free Time

On the way back to Istanbul, there’s about 30 minutes of free time for shopping—enough to pick up some souvenirs or enjoy a quick coffee. The whole experience wraps up with a transfer back to your hotel.

What Reviewers Say

One of the things that stands out is how many travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the seamless organization. A reviewer named Kardelen, for example, was praised for her attentiveness and good English skills.

People also love the value for money. The trip is considered fun, with lively music, good company, and delicious, proper portions of lunch. Many mention the beautiful scenery and how the trip offers a great way to see the islands without too much hassle.

Of course, some found the long boat hours tiring, and the lunch somewhat underwhelming, but most agree that for the price, it’s a solid experience. A few reviews suggest that if you’re into relaxing, leisurely exploration, this might feel a bit rushed, but overall, it’s a well-organized day out.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits budget-conscious travelers who want a convenient, guided experience and don’t mind a busy schedule. It’s great if you enjoy scenic boat rides, want to see the best of the Princes’ Islands in one day, and appreciate easy logistics. If your main goal is to relax on the beaches or explore at your own pace, this might feel a bit hurried—though it does offer free time for shopping and quick island exploration.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to visit the Princes’ Islands and appreciate a mix of scenic views, light exploration, and social atmosphere, this tour delivers. The included ferry ride is beautiful and provides some of the best views of Istanbul’s skyline, while the island visits are relaxed enough to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed.

The organized transport and guided commentary make it suitable for those who prefer not to handle logistics alone, especially if you’re new to the city or traveling in a group. The lively boat atmosphere and friendly staff often get praised, making it feel like a fun day rather than a formal tour.

That said, if you’re a traveler who prefers more time on the islands or more in-depth exploration, you might find this trip a little rushed. The basic lunch might not satisfy those seeking gourmet food, but it’s reasonable for the price.

Overall, it’s a great introduction to the islands for those who want to see and experience a different side of Istanbul without breaking the bank. It’s especially good if you’re after a light, scenic escape with friendly company and easy logistics.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the pickup option, you’ll be collected from your hotel in Istanbul.

How long is the boat ride?
The ferry ride lasts about 1.5 hours each way, which is generally enjoyable but can feel long if you’re not used to boat trips.

What’s included in the lunch?
The tour provides a simple, reasonably portioned meal onboard, enough to keep you energized for the day.

Can I explore the islands at my own pace?
You’ll have some free time on the islands, but the stops are relatively brief, so if you want a more leisurely visit, plan accordingly.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is generally suitable for most ages, especially since it involves walking, boat rides, and some island exploration, but it’s not specifically tailored for children.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, casual clothes, and some cash for extras or souvenirs are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Given the walking involved and the boat trips, it might be challenging for those with mobility restrictions.

How much does it cost?
The tour is priced at $28 per person, highlighting good value for a full day of sightseeing.

If you want a straightforward, lively, and scenic day out from Istanbul, this Princes’ Islands tour offers a lot for its price. Just keep in mind the boat hours and basic lunch—beyond that, it’s a friendly, well-organized way to enjoy a different side of this historic city.

You can check availability for your dates here: