Princes’ Islands Tour from Istanbul Lunch Included

If you’re considering a day trip from Istanbul to explore the Princes’ Islands, this tour offers a chance to step away from the city buzz and enjoy some peaceful island scenery. We’ve looked into this experience and can share what to expect—both the highlights and the things you might want to keep in mind. It’s a popular choice for those wanting a mix of history, nature, and a laid-back vibe, all packaged into around six and a half hours.

What really catches the eye about this tour is the scenic boat crossing and the opportunity to see the islands’ charming architecture and relaxed atmosphere. Plus, the included lunch is often praised as being quite tasty, making the overall value appealing. On the flip side, some travelers note that the tour doesn’t feature a guided in-depth commentary on the islands themselves, which might leave history buffs a little wanting. This tour is well-suited for those looking for a casual, picturesque day out rather than a deep cultural dive.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone who’s been to Istanbul before, this trip could fit nicely into your itinerary if you’re craving outdoor time and scenic views. Just keep in mind that if you’re expecting a guided, highly educational tour of the islands, you might find this experience somewhat light on that front. It’s best for travelers eager to enjoy nature, photograph stunning vistas, and have a relaxed day with a decent meal included.

Key Points

• Scenic boat ride: The round-trip crossing offers stunning views of Istanbul and the Marmara Sea.
• Relaxed pace: The tour allows plenty of free time to explore, swim, or just unwind on the beaches.
• Historic sights: While not a detailed guided tour, you’ll see notable landmarks like the Maiden’s Tower and the well-preserved architecture of the islands.
• Meal included: The lunch, often described as tasty, adds good value and a chance to enjoy fresh seafood.
• Group size: With up to 60 travelers, it’s a social experience but might feel crowded.
• Limited guided commentary: There’s no in-depth guided narration on the islands, but an interpreter helps with some translation on the boat.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Point and Transportation
The journey begins early, with hotel pickup (if your booking includes it), and a drive by air-conditioned bus to the Unkapani port. From there, you climb aboard a boat that takes you across the Marmara Sea. The boat ride itself is a highlight—it’s a chance to breathe in the sea air and get some great views of Istanbul’s skyline, including the iconic Maiden’s Tower.

Stop 1: Büyükada (Largest Island)
Büyükada is the star of the tour—Turkey’s largest Prince Island and the busiest of the group. Once you arrive, you’ll have about two hours to explore at your own pace. The island’s streets are lined with old villas and quaint shops, and you’ll notice the absence of cars—horses and bicycles are the main modes of transportation here, adding to the nostalgic feel. Although the tour doesn’t include a guided walk, you can wander through the charming streets, soak in the architecture, or relax at a seaside café. The reviews note that some visitors found the island interesting, with comments like “There was no guided tour—just an English interpreter on the boat,” but also mention that the free time was sufficient to enjoy the scenery.

Stop 2: Heybeliada (Adorable and Green)
Next up is Heybeliada, famous for its lush pine forests and bays. Your group will take a brief cruise over the sea to reach this quieter island. The free walking tour here is a nice touch—an hour of wandering through scenic areas, with views of old villas and nature. Expect some nice photo opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere, especially if you like to walk and soak in natural beauty. The review mentions that the boat ride over the Marmara is especially enjoyable, with “picturesque bays and pine forests” providing a relaxing backdrop.

Lunch and Free Time at Büyükada
After the island hopping, you’ll return to Büyükada for lunch. The included meal tends to be seafood-based and gets positive remarks for its taste. After eating, you’re free to spend about two hours on your own—whether that’s lounging on the beach, shopping, or just strolling around. A few reviews point out that the beach and swimming options are available if you bring your swimsuit, but this isn’t a dedicated beach day. Some travelers found the free time enough to enjoy the local scene, and others wished for more guided activity or cultural insight.

Shopping and Return
The last stops include some free shopping time, which can be a good chance to pick up souvenirs or local crafts. Finally, you’ll meet up again with your guide, hop back onto the boat, and return to Istanbul. The trip wraps up around early evening, bringing you back to your hotel or original meeting point.

What We Love—and What’s Missing

The boat rides and scenic views are undeniably a highlight—these make for some beautiful photos and memorable moments. The lunch also tends to impress with its quality, especially if you’re a fan of seafood. Plus, the freedom to explore the islands at your own pace is a big plus for those who prefer to wander rather than follow a tight schedule.

However, a couple of downsides are worth mentioning. The lack of guided narration on the islands means you’ll have to do your own exploring, or rely on your own research afterward if you want to learn about the history and architecture. One reviewer even said, “There was no guided tour,” which could be disappointing for history buffs or those who prefer more structure. The size of the group—up to 60 travelers—may also make some parts feel a little crowded or less intimate.

When it comes to price, at approximately $38.40 per person, this tour offers decent value if you’re looking for a relaxed day with a mix of scenery, some history, and good food. It’s not a deep dive into cultural or historical details, but it suits travelers who want a straightforward, enjoyable experience without a lot of hassle.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a laid-back day out, enjoying beautiful views and a peaceful escape from Istanbul’s busy streets. If you like the idea of scenic boat rides, charming architecture, and leisurely exploration, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate good food, particularly seafood, and who don’t mind a group setting.

On the other hand, if you’re seeking a highly guided, educational tour with detailed insights into each island’s history, or if you prefer private, personalized experiences, this might not be the best fit. It’s more about enjoying the relaxed island atmosphere than diving deep into cultural stories.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Princes’ Islands tour provides a decent balance of natural beauty, light history, and tasty food for a reasonable price. The boat rides and scenic walks are the main attractions, making it a good pick for those who want to unwind and see some charming islands without much fuss. Just keep your expectations in check regarding guided commentary and the overall depth of cultural insights.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, picture-worthy day with some lovely seafood, this tour could be a good fit. But if you’re craving a more in-depth exploration or a guided cultural experience, you might want to look elsewhere or plan a more tailored trip.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Pickup depends on your booking option, but if included, it’s a convenient way to start the day. Check your specific reservation details.

How long is the boat ride?
The round-trip boat crossing takes you from Istanbul to the islands and back, offering about two hours of travel time, which is enough to enjoy the views and relax.

Are there guided tours on the islands?
No, the tour doesn’t include a guided walk on the islands. There’s an English interpreter on the boat for some translation, but exploration is mostly self-directed.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation, boat crossings, a local guide, and a lunch. Shopping time and optional activities like swimming or visiting craft shops are on your own.

Can I swim at the islands?
Yes, you can bring your swimsuit and head to the beach after lunch, but swimming isn’t part of the organized activities.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the relaxed pace and scenic environment could suit families with older children comfortable with boat rides and walking. Keep in mind the group size and the lack of guided activities.

If you’re after a simple, scenic day with good food and a chance to enjoy Istanbul’s islands at your own pace, this tour offers a worthwhile escape. Just be ready for a relaxed, social experience rather than an in-depth cultural journey.