Prince’s Island Group Tour

Thinking about taking a break from Istanbul’s bustling streets? This Prince’s Island Group Tour offers a gentle escape to the tranquil islands of Heybeliada and Buyukada. For around $45, you get a roughly six-hour adventure that combines scenic boat rides, charming island walks, and a taste of local life. We haven’t done this trip ourselves, but based on the details and reviews out there, it’s worth considering if you’re after a laid-back day out that shows you a different side of Istanbul.

What really appeals to us is how the tour balances the scenic, active, and relaxing elements. You’ll love the stunning views during the boat rides and the chance to amble through peaceful neighborhoods with historic buildings. Plus, the optional buggy tour in Buyukada sounds like a fun, quick way to see some highlights without too much effort. The downside? The schedule is a bit tight, especially if you want to linger longer on each island—so it’s not the best fit if you’re craving an unhurried, deep dive into island life. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a taste of the Princes’ Islands without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

If you’re curious about a manageable, guided day trip that combines sightseeing, some leisure, and beautiful views, this could be a solid pick. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate efficiency and a good guide, but aren’t necessarily looking for a full-on island-hopping marathon. Now, let’s get into the details so you can decide if this tour matches your travel vibe.

Key Points

• Scenic boat rides provide great views of Istanbul’s skyline and the Sea of Marmara.
• Two distinct islands: Heybeliada offers a peaceful, beachy vibe, while Buyukada showcases charming streets and historic buildings.
• Optional buggy tour allows a quick, fun exploration of Buyukada highlights.
• Guided commentary helps you understand the islands’ history and local life.
• Leisure time on each island offers opportunities for photos, relaxing, or quick shopping.
• Value for money: Includes ferry rides, lunch, and a guide, making it a pretty hassle-free day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Departure from Istanbul and the Scenic Voyage

Your day kicks off with a pickup from your hotel—if you’re staying within the service area—and a quick transfer to meet your guide. From there, you’ll hop into a van and head to the ferry terminal for a 75-minute boat ride across the Sea of Marmara. This first leg is delightful; the breeze and views really help set the tone for the day. Watching Istanbul’s skyline recede behind you, framed by the open water, is an experience in itself.

Exploring Heybeliada

The first stop is Heybeliada, known for its unspoiled serenity and natural beauty. Here, you’ll enjoy a photo stop and sightseeing for about an hour. The guide will take you around, pointing out key sights and sharing snippets of the island’s story. You’ll find charming neighborhoods, beaches, and quiet streets—perfect for wandering at your own pace.

Many travelers mention the tranquil ambiance of Heybeliada. It’s less developed than some other spots, which makes it ideal for a peaceful break. The short sightseeing tour gives you a flavor of the island’s history and vibe, but it’s also a great opportunity just to sit by the water and breathe in the sea air. You’ll have time for shopping or grabbing a snack if you like, but the main goal is relaxation and taking in the views.

Return to the Ferry and Head to Buyukada

After about an hour, you’ll hop back on the ferry for a quick 15-minute crossing to Buyukada, the largest of the Princes’ Islands. The vibe here is slightly more lively but still maintains a relaxed, almost old-world charm. This is where most of the tour’s action happens.

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Explore Buyukada

Once on Buyukada, you’ll have around two hours for sightseeing, lunch, and leisure. The guide will lead you through some of the highlights—historic buildings, scenic viewpoints, and local shops. You might also take a walk along the waterfront or simply relax at a cafe.

A big plus for many travelers is the lunch included on board. It’s typically a sit-down meal, giving you a chance to refuel after the morning’s explorations. Afterward, you’re free to explore more or do some shopping. The pace is relaxed so you can choose how much you want to see.

Optional Buggy Tour

If you opt in for the buggy ride, it’s a quick 20-minute tour of Buyukada’s key sites—perfect if you want to cover a lot in less time or prefer a more active way to see the sights. The reviews suggest this is a fun addition, though it’s an optional extra, so you’ll need to decide whether it’s worth the additional cost.

Returning to Istanbul

As the afternoon winds down, you’ll board the ferry back to Istanbul and reflect on the day’s peaceful moments. The sunset view over the water en route back is often highlighted as a highlight. The tour ends with a drop-off at your hotel, if applicable.

What the Tour Includes and Excludes

Included:
– A friendly, knowledgeable guide who keeps things interesting.
– Ferry rides to and from the islands.
– A tasty lunch on the boat.
– Hotel pickup if you’re within the service area.

Not Included:
– The buggy tour is optional and costs extra.
– Personal expenses or souvenirs.
– Gratuities are not included but appreciated if you enjoyed the tour.

Price & Value

At $45, this tour offers quite a lot. Ferry rides alone can be costly if you’re independent visitors, and including a guide and lunch makes it convenient. Consider that this is a guided experience meant to give you a taste of the islands without extra planning, which many travelers find worthwhile.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for those who want a relaxed, organized day out. It suits visitors who appreciate scenic boat rides and want to see two different islands in one go. If you’re interested in a guided overview rather than a full-day exploration, this tour hits the right notes. It’s also friendly for travelers who prefer not to worry about arranging transportation or meals, since that’s all taken care of.

However, if you’re someone who loves long, unstructured time on each island or prefers to hike or cycle extensively, this might feel a little rushed. The optional buggy tour is a smart addition for those wanting a quick overview without much effort.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Prince’s Island Group Tour offers a solid, comfortable way to experience Istanbul’s Princes’ Islands without the stress of planning everything yourself. The boat rides alone are a highlight, providing stunning views and a refreshing break from the city’s busy streets. The islands themselves are lovely—each with its own charm—and the guided approach helps you understand what you’re seeing.

While the schedule might feel a little tight if you love lingering in each place, it’s perfect for those wanting a manageable, scenic day out. The combination of sightseeing, leisure, and optional activities like the buggy tour means you can tailor some of the experience to your preferences.

If you’re after a peaceful escape with friendly guides and beautiful water views, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s a good pick for travelers who want to see the islands but aren’t keen on spending a whole day or organizing every detail themselves.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if your hotel is within the designated service area, you’ll be picked up by the tour’s transportation van to begin your day.

How long is the boat ride?
The ferry ride from Istanbul to Heybeliada takes about 75 minutes, offering plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

What’s the best way to explore Buyukada?
You can walk around at your own pace, take a guided tour, or opt for the 20-minute buggy ride to see the main highlights quickly.

Is meals included?
Yes, a lunch is provided on board during the tour, allowing you to rest and recharge before exploring the islands further.

Can I customize the experience?
While the schedule is fixed, the optional buggy tour can add some extra fun, and you’re free to explore on your own during free time.

Is this suitable for families?
While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the leisurely pace and scenic spots make it a nice option for those traveling with children who enjoy gentle walks and boat rides.

This tour provides a nice balance of guided sightseeing, leisure, and scenic travel, making it a practical choice for those looking to enjoy Istanbul’s nearby islands without too much fuss. Whether you’re in for the views, the history, or just some quiet time by the sea, it’s worth considering as part of your Istanbul itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: