Istanbul Princes island Tour visiting 2 island

Discover the Peaceful Escape of Istanbul’s Princes Islands

The Istanbul Princes Island Tour offers a relaxing day away from the city’s hustle, visiting two of the most popular islands, Heybeliada and Büyükada. Priced at $45 per person, this 8-hour experience includes private boat transportation, lunch, and guided exploration, making it a convenient option for travelers wanting an authentic island day trip.

This tour departs from Istanbul Province and is ideal for those interested in a peaceful, traffic-free environment. The islands are known for their pine-wood scenery and a lack of cars, with bikes and electric cars as the only means of transport. While some reviews mention limited sights on the islands, the overall organization and included activities make this an appealing choice for a quick escape.

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Key Points

• Price: $45 per person, including lunch and guided service
• Duration: 8 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability
• Transport: Private boat cruise across the MARMARA SEA
• Islands Visited: Heybeliada and Büyükada, with optional electric car tours
• Highlights: Scenic boat ride, peaceful car-free islands, lunch at a seafood restaurant
• Additional features: Pass by iconic sites like Topkap Palace, Leander’s Tower, and Uskudar

How the Tour Starts with Hotel Pickup and Boat Ride

The adventure begins early as the pickup from hotels occurs between 8:30-9:00 AM. From there, the group boards a private boat to cruise across the MARMARA SEA, setting a scenic tone for the day. The boat tour itself is a relaxing way to soak in views of Istanbul from the water, passing notable landmarks along the way, including Topkap Palace, Leander’s Tower, and Uskudar.

Traveling by private boat ensures a comfortable journey, with the option to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and panoramic vistas. The smooth transfer from hotel to boat and back helps keep the day well-paced and hassle-free.

Exploring Büyükada, the Largest of the Princes Islands

Once at Büyükada, the tour provides the opportunity to explore by electric car, a popular choice that offers a comfortable way to see the island’s highlights. Historically known as the pleasure island of Byzantine Princes, Büyükada features pine-wood scenery and a tranquil atmosphere free from city noise.

Guests have a lunch included at a local seafood restaurant, emphasizing fresh fish and traditional Turkish dishes. After lunch, there’s around two hours of free time to wander, relax, or enjoy the island’s charming streets at leisure. The visit to Büyükada offers a balance of guided sightseeing and personal exploration.

Visiting Heybeliada, the Artistic and Cultural Heart of the Islands

The second stop is Heybeliada, where the tour allocates about one hour for exploration. Known for its natural beauty and small-town vibe, Heybeliada is ideal for a quiet stroll. While the review indicates that some visitors find the islands lack extensive sights, the peaceful environment and local charm are key attractions.

The time on Heybeliada is perfect for leisurely walks, enjoying the scenery, or perhaps visiting a local café. The island’s relaxed pace makes it a lovely contrast to the bustling city of Istanbul.

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Transportation Options and Island Mobility

On both islands, electric cars are available as an optional way to see the sights comfortably. With no traffic allowed, bike riding is the main alternative for those seeking more active exploration. The limited time—around one hour on Heybeliada and a couple of hours on Büyükada—means visitors should prioritize their preferred spots.

The electric vehicle tours add a layer of comfort, especially for those who prefer not to walk long distances or cycle. The lack of vehicle traffic and the scenic rides contribute to the islands’ peaceful ambiance.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour includes transportation, insurance, a guided service in English, lunch, the boat tour, and entry fees to the islands. The price notably excludes personal expenses and drinks, so travelers should plan accordingly for additional purchases.

The full-day tour is designed for convenience, with pickup and drop-off from your hotel. The cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if plans change.

The Quality of Service and Overall Organization

Based on positive feedback, the tour is generally very well organized. The guide’s explanations about the sights and local context seem to enhance the experience, and the included lunch is well appreciated. The friendly staff and smooth transfers contribute to a hassle-free day.

While some comments note that the islands may not have a large number of sights, the overall service quality remains high. The tour strikes a good balance between guided visits and free time, though it is somewhat limited if one hopes for extensive island exploration.

Comparing This Tour to Self-Travel Options

A common comment from travelers is that they could visit one island independently by ferry, which might be more flexible. However, this tour’s advantage lies in the organized logistics, guided commentary, and included lunch, making it a practical choice for those who want a structured experience without the hassle of planning.

Travelers should consider whether they prefer the convenience of a guided tour or are comfortable exploring on their own, especially since the islands are reachable by ferry with no added cost.

Who Will Appreciate This Princes Islands Tour?

This experience suits visitors seeking a relaxed day trip with easy transportation and an organized itinerary. It’s particularly appealing to those who enjoy scenic boat rides, peaceful car-free environments, and local seafood.

However, travelers hoping for extensive sightseeing or multiple island visits may find the limited time on each island somewhat restrictive. The tour’s value lies in its comfort and well-coordinated logistics rather than in uncovering every hidden corner of the islands.

Final Thoughts on the Princes Islands Day Trip from Istanbul

The Istanbul Princes Island Tour provides a cost-effective and well-organized way to experience two of the archipelago’s most beloved islands. The private boat cruise, guided exploration, and lunch create a balanced day of sightseeing and relaxation.

While some may wish for more extensive island exploration, the peaceful environment and scenic scenery make this tour a pleasing escape from Istanbul’s hustle. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value comfort, convenience, and a guided experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including hotel pickup, boat travel, island visits, and return transfer.

What is included in the price?
The price of $45 covers transport, insurance, a guided service in English, lunch, the boat tour, and entry fees.

Can I explore the islands on my own?
Yes, the islands are accessible by ferry if you prefer to visit independently. The tour offers optional electric car rides for easier exploration.

What kind of lunch is served?
A local seafood restaurant provides the included lunch, emphasizing fresh fish and traditional Turkish dishes.

What landmarks will I see from the boat?
While cruising, you will pass landmarks like Topkap Palace, Leander’s Tower, and Uskudar.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The tour’s relaxed pace and scenic boat ride make it suitable for most visitors, but those with mobility issues should consider the island exploration options.

What are the main drawbacks?
Some reviews mention that there is little to see on the islands beyond their natural charm, and the limited time may restrict extensive sightseeing.

Do I need to pre-book?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended. You can reserve now and pay later, with full cancellation possible up to 24 hours before the tour.

Are there any additional costs?
Personal expenses and drinks are not included and should be carried separately if desired.

What language is the guide in?
The guided service is provided in English.

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