Princess Island Tour with Lunch & Ferry Ride

Exploring the Princess Islands from Istanbul: What You Need to Know

If you’re thinking about taking a day trip from Istanbul to explore the beautiful Princess Islands, you’ll find plenty of options. One popular choice is the Princess Island Tour with Lunch and Ferry Ride—offering a mix of scenic boat trips, a charming island atmosphere, and a taste of local life. While it’s not a perfect experience, it can be a nice way to see a different side of Istanbul, especially if you’re after a relaxed day out.

We like that this tour includes round-trip ferry rides, which really set the scene with stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline and iconic landmarks like Topkap Palace and Kız Kulesi. The bilingual guides speaking both English and Arabic help make the trip accessible for many travelers. Plus, the included lunch and horse-drawn carriage ride give it a leisurely, local vibe.

On the flip side, one thing to consider is the occasional logistical hiccup, like delayed pickups reported by some travelers. And, since the ferry is operated by the government, there’s less control over those parts of the trip. That said, if you’re looking for an affordable and straightforward way to visit Büyükada—the largest of the Islands—this tour offers a solid option.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a budget-friendly, guided day trip with some scenic views and a taste of island life. It’s not the most luxurious or exclusive experience, but it hits many of the essentials for a relaxing day outside the hustle of Istanbul’s busy streets.

Key Points

• Cost-effective way to reach Büyükada with transportation and lunch included
• Bilingual guides make the experience accessible for both English and Arabic speakers
• Ferry ride offers great photo opportunities of Istanbul’s skyline and landmarks
• Horse-drawn carriage provides a leisurely way to explore the island
• Some reviews mention delays and service inconsistencies, so manage expectations
• Suitable for travelers interested in a relaxed, guided day trip rather than a luxury experience

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour packs quite a bit into an approximately 8-hour day, starting early with pickup around 8:30 am. Once you’re collected from your hotel or meeting point, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle and head to the ferry terminal. The ferry ride from Istanbul to Büyükada is a highlight in itself: sitting back and watching the city’s landmarks slip past your window while you enjoy the breeze and scenic views.

Passing by Istanbul’s Landmarks

During the boat trip, you’ll get to see iconic sights like Topkap Palace and Kız Kulesi (Maiden’s Tower) from the water. For many, this perspective offers great photo opportunities and a fresh way to appreciate Istanbul’s historic skyline. One reviewer appreciated the opportunity to learn about these sites from the guide, which adds context that enriches the experience.

Reaching Büyükada

Once ashore, the main way to explore the island is by horse-drawn carriage, which is both charming and a bit nostalgic. The carriage ride is a leisurely option, allowing you to take in the island’s peaceful streets, pine forests, and lovely villas. Keep in mind that this is a touristy tradition, so it may not be the fastest way to get around, but it’s a memorable way to soak in the atmosphere.

Beach Time and Relaxation

One of the main draws of Büyükada is its beaches, and you’ll have ample time to lounge and enjoy the sea. Depending on the weather and crowd, you might find this the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun. The tour’s schedule allows enough time for relaxing without feeling rushed—ideal for those who want a laid-back day.

Lunch and Additional Amenities

Lunch is included in the tour price, and while reviews don’t specify the menu, the presence of a meal is a welcome perk for many. Having everything taken care of—transport, guide, food—means less fuss and more time to enjoy the island. However, drinks aren’t included unless specified, so if you want something extra, prepare to buy it separately.

The Downsides: What to Watch Out For

While the tour offers a good overview, there are some noteworthy drawbacks. Reviewers have pointed out delays at pickup, with one mentioning they weren’t informed of the delay beforehand. This can be frustrating if you’re trying to plan your day tightly.

Another review mentioned that some staff were unpleasant or rude, and that the tour was conducted in a local language despite booking for English. Such experiences are disappointing and highlight the importance of managing expectations with service quality.

Plus, since part of the ferry operation is managed by the government, there’s little control over ferry schedules or potential delays. If you’re sensitive to timing or prefer a more personalized experience, this might not be the best fit.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal if you’re looking for an affordable, guided way to visit Büyükada without the hassle of organizing your own transportation. It suits travelers who want a relaxed day out with some scenic views and don’t mind a group setting.

It’s also a good pick if you’re interested in seeing Istanbul from the water and experiencing the charm of the islands without spending a fortune. However, if you’re expecting premium service or a very personalized experience, you might want to explore other options.

The Experience in a Nutshell

This tour offers a budget-friendly introduction to Büyükada, with the convenience of transportation, lunch, and guided commentary included. The ferry ride provides stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline, and the horse-drawn carriage adds a nostalgic touch to your exploration. The ample free time on the island for lounging or walking around makes it a relaxing day.

But do keep in mind that some travelers have experienced delays and inconsistent service, which can impact your overall enjoyment. Still, for a straightforward, affordable outing, it delivers on many fronts. It’s especially suited for those who want to combine sightseeing with leisure, without breaking the bank.

If you’re after a simple, guided escape to the islands with decent value, this tour fits the bill. Just be prepared for some variability in the experience and manage your expectations accordingly.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 8 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, ferry rides both ways, a guided tour in English and Arabic, lunch, and all fees and taxes.

Are drinks provided?
No, drinks are not included unless specified, so you’ll need to purchase them separately if you want beverages with your meal or on the boat.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the leisurely pace and scenic rides could appeal to travelers with children, but consider the group size and schedule.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, comfortable shoes, and maybe a hat or sunglasses. A camera or smartphone for photos is a must.

Can I customize or skip parts of the day?
This is a guided group tour, so flexibility might be limited. But you’ll have plenty of time on the island for personal exploration.

What do I do if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund.

Is the ferry ride comfortable?
Most travelers find the ferry ride pleasant, with scenic views, but it can be subject to weather conditions.

In the end, this Princess Island tour offers a decent, budget-friendly way to see Büyükada, especially if you’re okay with some potential hiccups. It’s a straightforward trip that balances sightseeing with relaxation, perfect for those wanting to experience a different side of Istanbul without overcomplicating things.