Istanbul Princes island Tour visiting 2 island

Exploring Istanbul’s Princes Islands: A Genuine Look at the Popular Day Trip

If you’re dreaming of escaping Istanbul’s hustle for a peaceful getaway, a day trip to the Princes Islands might just be what you need. We’ve looked into a tour that takes you to two of these scenic islands—Heybeliada and Büyükada—and it looks like a decent way to get a taste of island life without too much hassle.

What we like about this tour? First, the fact that it’s all done by private boat makes the experience feel more exclusive and comfortable compared to public ferries. Plus, the lunch included is a bonus—who doesn’t love a good seafood meal after some island wandering? But, and it’s a small but worth noting, some travelers have mentioned that there’s not a ton to see on the islands if you’re expecting a packed sightseeing itinerary.

This tour probably suits those who are looking for a relaxed, hassle-free way to visit the islands—especially if you want to avoid the logistics of ferry schedules or renting bikes. It’s great for those who want a taste of the islands, enjoy some leisurely exploration, and are happy with a fairly structured day rather than a deep dive into every nook and cranny.

Key Points

• Comfortable private boat transfer improves the overall experience.
• Lunch at a seafood restaurant offers a chance to enjoy local flavors.
• Visiting two islands in one day maximizes your time in the area.
• Optional electric car tour makes exploring easier, especially if you want a break from walking.
• Timing is flexible with pickup between 8:30-9:00 AM and an 8-hour window.
• Price point at $45 makes it an affordable option compared to private tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Details of the Princes Islands Tour

Starting with the logistics, we appreciate how straightforward this experience is. You’re picked up from your hotel in Istanbul early in the morning—between 8:30 and 9:00 AM—so you’re not waiting around long before setting off. The actual cruise across the MARMARA SEA in a private boat feels more intimate and relaxed, especially when compared to larger group ferries.

The boat ride itself is a highlight. The calm waters and the chance to see Istanbul’s skyline, including sights like Topkapı Palace, Leander’s Tower, and Uskudar, make for a scenic start to the day. The mention of passing these landmarks along the way hints at a nice mix of sightseeing even before you step onto the islands.

Visiting Büyükada

The final stop is Büyükada, the most renowned of the Princes Islands. Known as the summer resort of Byzantine Princes, it’s filled with pine trees and charming old mansions. The lack of cars—only bikes and electric vehicles—gives it an almost nostalgic, peaceful feel. Once on land, you have the option to explore the island via electric car, which is a smart choice if you want to cover more ground without much effort.

One of the tour’s nice touches is the lunch break at a local seafood restaurant. Based on reviews and typical offerings, you might find fresh fish and classic Turkish meze, which is always a treat after a morning of walking or sightseeing. After lunch, you’re given a few hours to explore at your own pace, whether you want to sit by the water, stroll the streets, or visit a few shops.

Heybeliada: A Quieter Alternative

Next, you hop over to Heybeliada for about an hour. It’s a quieter, less touristy spot—perfect if you prefer a more relaxed vibe. While some reviews suggest there’s “little to see,” it’s worth noting that this might be ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful break rather than a packed sightseeing schedule.

The Overall Experience: What We Think

The big plus here is how well-organized the entire day appears to be. The tour includes transportation, insurance, guided service, boat tour, entry fees, and lunch—an impressive list for such an affordable price of $45. That makes it an easy choice for budget-conscious travelers who want a hassle-free, all-in-one experience.

However, some reviews point out that the islands may not have a lot of attractions if you’re expecting a packed itinerary. One traveler noted, “lunch good and staff friendly but little to see on islands. You could go by ferry yourself to one island,” suggesting that the main appeal is the relaxed vibe and scenery rather than extensive sightseeing.

Another review praises the organization and quality of service, which speaks well for those who value efficiency and professionalism. The fact that the tour passes notable landmarks like Topkapı Palace and Leander’s Tower en route adds a layer of cultural context without taking extra time from your day.

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Is it worth the price?

At $45 per person, this tour offers a pretty good value for money—especially considering the boat ride, lunch, and guided service are included. For travelers who prefer a structured day with less planning, it’s a solid option. But if you’re someone who loves wandering on your own at a slower pace or wants to explore every corner of the islands, you might find this experience somewhat limited.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is particularly suited for those who want a relaxed, guided day trip with minimal hassle. It’s ideal if you’re new to Istanbul and prefer not to worry about ferry schedules or renting bikes. It also works well for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides combined with a laid-back exploration of islands.

If you’re someone who appreciates local seafood and scenic views, you’ll likely enjoy the included lunch and the picturesque spots on Büyükada. However, if your idea of a trip involves more in-depth exploration or active adventures, you might want to look for options that spend more time on each island or include other activities.

The Sum Up

In the end, this Princes Islands tour offers a straightforward way to experience a slice of island life just outside Istanbul. It’s a cost-effective, well-organized trip that combines scenic boat rides, peaceful island exploration, and tasty local food. The fact that it includes transport, guided service, and entry fees makes it a good pick for travelers wanting a comprehensive, no-surprise day trip.

While it may not satisfy those looking for a deep dive into the islands’ history or hidden gems, it’s perfect for anyone craving a relaxing escape with beautiful scenery and a touch of local flavor. Just keep in mind that the islands themselves are more about atmosphere and scenery than a packed sightseeing itinerary.

If you’re okay with a somewhat relaxed schedule and want a convenient way to see two islands in one day, this tour might be just right. And if you’re a foodie, the included seafood lunch will be a definite bonus.

FAQ: Your Quick Guide to the Princes Islands Tour

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Istanbul, making the start of your day smooth and stress-free.

What’s the best time to start?
Pickup is between 8:30 and 9:00 AM, so you’ll want to be ready around that window to ensure you don’t miss the boat.

How long is the boat ride?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but the entire day lasts about 8 hours, including the boat transfer, island stops, and lunch.

Can I explore the islands on my own?
Absolutely. Once on Büyükada, you can explore at your leisure, either walking or using the optional electric car. On Heybeliada, you also have an hour to walk around.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the relaxed pace and scenic boat ride make it generally suitable for families with older children, especially those who enjoy boat trips and outdoor exploration.

What’s included in the price?
Transport, insurance, guided service, boat tour, entry fees, and lunch are all included, giving good value for the price.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so bring some water or other beverages if you need them.

Is the lunch buffet or sit-down?
The lunch is at a local seafood restaurant, typically a sit-down meal often praised for its quality and flavor.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans shift.

Is this tour available year-round?
It’s primarily popular in summer months, but check the availability for your planned travel dates as it may vary.

All in all, if this kind of relaxed, scenic, and well-organized day trip appeals to you, it’s worth considering. Just remember that it’s more about enjoying the atmosphere and views than ticking off every island attraction.

You can check availability for your dates here: