Daily Princes Island Tour from Istanbul

Experience the Charm of Istanbul’s Princes Islands in a Full-Day Tour

This Daily Princes Island Tour from Istanbul offers a balanced blend of scenic cruising, cultural exploration, and relaxing leisure time. Priced for a full day of adventure, the tour spans 8 hours and takes you from central Istanbul to the stunning Büyükada and Kinali Island, two of the most picturesque spots in the Sea of Marmara. The excursion includes hotel pickup, boat trips, a guided walk, lunch, and optional activities like bike rentals or beach relaxation.

Perfect for travelers seeking a mix of sightseeing, leisure, and local flavor, this tour combines convenience with a taste of island life. While the tour accommodates most, it’s not suited for those with mobility impairments or large luggage. The English, Arabic, and Russian guides help bring the islands’ stories to life, making it an engaging experience for diverse groups.

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Key Points

• Duration: 8 hours, with flexible starting times (check availability)
• Departure: Hotel pickup from key Istanbul locations including Sultanahmet, Taksim, and Laleli
• Main stops: Kinali Island for a peaceful visit and Büyükada, the largest and most popular island
• Activities: Free time for bike rentals or beach relaxation, feeding seagulls with simit, sightseeing of Ottoman mansions
• Included: Transportation, boat trip, lunch, guide, and entrance fees
• Not included: Drinks at lunch, bike or electric buggy rentals

Pickup and Transport from Istanbul Hotels to the Ferry

The tour begins with a comfortable, air-conditioned coach pickup from your hotel in Istanbul’s city center, such as Sultanahmet, Beyazit, Aksaray, Laleli, Taksim, or Beyoğlu. Travelers are advised to be ready 15 minutes prior to the scheduled pickup time, as traffic delays are possible.

Once aboard, the group travels smoothly to the ferry terminal, where the scenic boat cruise across the Sea of Marmara awaits. The boat journey lasts around an hour, offering views of Istanbul’s skyline, dotted with mosques and palaces, setting a memorable start to the island adventure.

Exploring Kinali Island: A Quiet Escape

The first island stop is Kinali Island, a lesser-known gem with a peaceful atmosphere. The disembarkation here provides a brief opportunity to enjoy the calm surroundings. Visitors can appreciate the tranquil charm of the island and perhaps take a short walk. This stop is ideal for those who wish to enjoy a quieter moment before heading to the larger, more bustling Büyükada.

Because the visit to Kinali is brief, it serves as a gentle introduction to the sea and island scenery. The peaceful environment makes it a good spot to feed seagulls using traditional sesame bread, called simit, a simple but delightful local tradition.

Discovering Büyükada: Ottoman Mansions and Breathtaking Views

Upon arriving at Büyükada, the largest of the Princes Islands, the tour offers plenty of options. Travelers can stroll along tree-lined lanes, explore Ottoman-era wooden mansions, or rent a bike (not included) to cover more ground at their own pace.

Büyükada’s historic architecture and lush greenery create a charming setting. Many small cafes line the streets, and the views over the sea are captivating. Relaxing at the beach is also an option, especially during warmer months, providing a chance to unwind with the sound of the waves.

The guided walk helps visitors understand the history of the island, including stories of royal exiles and Byzantine monks. The flexibility of free time means visitors can tailor their experience, whether they prefer a leisurely sit-down, a bike ride, or sightseeing.

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Lunch on the Sea or at a Local Restaurant

A delicious lunch is included in the tour, served either on the boat in summer or at a restaurant during winter, depending on weather conditions. This arrangement ensures travelers enjoy a fresh meal with sea views, adding to the overall experience.

The lunch is part of the package, simplifying the day and allowing for a relaxed dining experience without the need to seek out local eateries separately. The focus remains on comfort and convenience, making this tour suitable for those who appreciate a well-organized itinerary.

The Return Cruise: Sharing Stories and Fascinating Facts

After exploring Büyükada, the group boards the boat again for the cruise back to Istanbul. During this return journey, the guide shares stories and insights about the islands’ history, from royal exile to Byzantine monks.

The return cruise offers a different perspective of Istanbul’s skyline, perfect for taking photos or simply enjoying the breeze. The storytelling enriches the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s an educational journey into the islands’ past.

Optional Shopping Stop: Leather and Gift Shops

Before arriving back in Istanbul, the tour may include a brief visit to a gift shop or leather shop. This optional stop provides a chance to browse local crafts and souvenirs, perfect for those interested in picking up a keepsake from the islands.

Since the shop visit is optional, travelers can skip it if they prefer to return directly to their hotel. The stop adds a bit of local flavor and shopping fun to the day, with no obligation to purchase.

Practicalities: Easy Logistics and Group Comfort

The tour is organized by Aussie Tours Travel Agency and includes transportation by air-conditioned buses. The hotel pickup and drop-off are only available from central Istanbul locations, making the day hassle-free.

The group size is manageable, with guides speaking English, Arabic, Russian, and Turkish, ensuring clear communication. The tour is designed for comfort and convenience, with entrance fees, boat trips, and lunch included.

Travelers should bring their passport or ID card and note that oversize luggage is not allowed. The tour lasts 8 hours, with starting times depending on availability, making it flexible to fit various schedules.

Accessibility and Suitability

While the tour offers a rich experience, it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as some walking and biking are involved. Travelers should also be prepared for possible traffic delays on the return journey, leading to some guests being dropped off near their hotels instead of directly outside.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Options

This daily Princes Island tour stands out for its comprehensive itinerary that includes Kinali Island and Büyükada, along with lunch and guided storytelling. While similar tours might focus only on Büyükada or include more islands, this option balances sightseeing, leisure, and cultural insights well.

Other experiences, such as ferry tickets alone or longer boat cruises, may lack the guided aspect or the structured free time. The inclusion of optional bike rentals and a brief visit to Kinali Island gives this tour flexibility and a peaceful pace.

Final Thoughts on the Princes Islands from Istanbul

This full-day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the sea and island life just outside Istanbul. It combines scenic cruises, historical insights, and leisure options like beach time and sightseeing, making it an engaging choice for those wanting to avoid the busy city streets and enjoy some quiet island scenery.

The organized logistics, guided commentary, and lunch make it a convenient option, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the area. The cost includes entrance fees and transfers, adding value to the experience.

While it may not suit those with mobility challenges or large luggage, it delivers a balanced, enjoyable day on the water and islands best known for their charm and history. Those looking for a relaxed yet informative excursion should find this tour a satisfying way to explore Istanbul’s nearby islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including transfers, boat rides, free time, and meals.

What are the main stops on the tour?
Stops include Kinali Island for a short visit and Büyükada, where you can relax, explore, or rent a bike.

Is lunch included?
Yes, lunch is provided, served on the boat during summer or at a restaurant during winter, depending on weather.

Can I rent a bike during the free time at Büyükada?
Bike rentals are not included in the tour price but are available locally for those wishing to explore more actively.

Are there optional shopping opportunities?
Yes, a brief visit to a gift or leather shop is included, but it remains optional.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments due to walking and biking activities.

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