Princes’ Islands Tour: Büyükada & One More Island with Lunch

Time: 08:00 – 09:00
Location: Your hotel lobby (central European Side)

Your day starts with pickup from your hotel or a nearby meeting point. A shared coach collects guests from different areas and drives to the departure pier on the Golden Horn or Bosphorus. On the way, your guide introduces the day’s plan and answers any questions about the islands, weather and optional activities.

Time: 09:00 – 10:30
Location: Istanbul pier → Sea of Marmara

You board the tour boat and find a seat inside or on the open deck. As the boat pulls away, you get postcard views of Istanbul’s historic peninsula, Galata Tower and the Asian shoreline. The ride to the islands takes about an hour to an hour and a half, depending on sea conditions and the route. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase at the bar.

Time: 10:30 – 11:30
Location: Kınalıada or Heybeliada (varies by season and operator schedule)

Your first stop is a smaller island with a relaxed local feel. Here you have free time to walk along the promenade, take photos of the colourful houses and churches, or sit at a café for tea or Turkish coffee. Your guide points out the main landmarks and gives practical tips, then you choose how to spend your short visit.

Time: 11:45 – 12:45
Location: On the boat, sailing between the islands

Back on the boat, a Turkish set lunch is served while you cruise toward Büyükada. Expect simple but tasty dishes: cold meze starters, a grilled fish or meat main course (with a vegetarian alternative if you requested in advance), salad and bread. You eat while watching the islands slide by outside, with sea breeze coming through the open windows or from the upper deck.

Time: 13:00 – 15:30
Location: Büyükada, the largest of the Princes’ Islands

Arriving at Büyükada, you feel the change immediately: no car noise, only bicycles, electric shuttles and the sound of waves. Your guide explains the meeting point and time, then you have free hours to enjoy the island.

You can:

• rent a bicycle and ride along the coastline,
• join an optional short electric car tour to see the historic wooden mansions and viewpoints,
• hike or walk up into the pine forests,
• or simply sit in a café with Turkish tea and watch the sea.

There are small beaches and swimming platforms; if the weather is warm, bring a towel and swimwear in case you’d like to take a dip.

Time: 15:30 – 17:30
Location: Sea of Marmara → Istanbul pier

In the late afternoon you re-board the boat for the cruise back to Istanbul. Most people are pleasantly quiet now – sun-tired, full and relaxed. You watch the islands fade into the distance and the city skyline grow in front of you.

Time: 17:00

Once you dock, your coach takes you back to your hotel or nearest drop-off point, usually arriving before early evening.