Istanbul Princes Island Tour with Lunch & Hotel Transfer

Comprehensive Tour of Istanbul’s Princes Islands at $50

This full-day tour of the Princes Islands in Istanbul offers a well-rounded experience for those wanting to escape the city’s busy streets. Priced at $50 per person, it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned bus, boat trips, entrance fees to the islands, and a lunch with drinks aboard the boat. The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, making it an attractive option for a day trip.

The tour begins with hotel pickups from the European side of Istanbul, ensuring a hassle-free start. Traveling by privately owned boat sets this experience apart from standard public ferries, helping travelers avoid long lines and crowded vessels. With free time on both Buyukada and Heybeliada, visitors can explore at their own pace. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but note that drinks are not included, and some reviews highlight variability in guide quality and food.

Key Points

• Price: $50 per person, with all major activities included
• Duration: About 6 to 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am
• Pickup: Included from the European side of Istanbul, making logistics simple
• Boat Trip: Private boat enhances comfort, avoids crowds, and includes lunch with drinks
• Highlights: Visits to Heybeliada, Buyukada, plus exploration of historical sites
• Reviews: Mixed but generally positive, praising guides, views, and value

Departure and Pick-Up from Istanbul Hotels

This tour starts promptly at 9:00 am with hotel pickup from key locations on the European side. The air-conditioned bus transports guests to the meeting point at Ahrkap Skelesi in Sultan Ahmet. From there, travelers board a comfortable ferry for the approximately one-hour ride to Heybeliada.

The convenience of hotel transfers simplifies the day, particularly for visitors unfamiliar with local transport options. However, a few reviews mention inconsistent pick-up times, with some guests experiencing delays, so planning ahead is advisable.

Visiting Heybeliada: The Less-Visited Island

The first stop in the tour is Heybeliada, also known as Halki, which is the second largest of the Princes Islands. Known for its natural beauty, the island is surrounded by blue waters and features dense greenery that offers a peaceful retreat from Istanbul’s chaos.

On arrival, the guide leads visitors through important sites like the Theological School, Beth Yaakov Synagogue, a monastery, and a church. The walk around the charming streets showcases beautiful houses and welcoming locals. This island often gets overlooked by travelers, making it a special stop for those wanting a quieter experience. The free time allows for photos and exploring at a relaxed pace.

Relaxing Ferry Ride with Scenic Views

The ferry trip from Istanbul to Heybeliada is about one hour, during which passengers can enjoy photo opportunities of the coastline and sea. The ferry’s comfortable seating and open buffet lunch provide a relaxing setting to start the day. Some reviews appreciate the good communication and friendly staff onboard, although others mention that selling items at inflated prices can be a downside.

Passengers get to snap memorable photos of Istanbul’s skyline and the islands’ serene waters during this part of the journey. It provides a calm, scenic transition from the city to the islands.

Exploring Buyukada: The Largest and Most Famous Island

After returning on the ferry, the tour pauses for a buffet lunch that includes drinks, giving guests the chance to relax before further exploration. The largest of the Princes Islands, Buyukada, is renowned for its imposing houses, picturesque streets, and historic sites.

The guide leads visitors through charming streets, pointing out notable landmarks like the Clock Tower, Aya Yorgi Church, and the Greek Orphanage. The 1 hour 30 minutes allocated for exploring allows ample time for walking, shopping, or relaxing at seaside cafes. Some reviews mention that more time on Buyukada would enhance the experience, but the scheduled visit provides a taste of its unique charm.

The Comfort of a Private Boat and Open Buffet Lunch

Traveling on a privately owned boat makes this tour stand out. The lunch onboard is an open buffet featuring local recipes, and drinks are included, providing a leisurely meal amid scenic views. This setup helps avoid crowded dining areas and long waiting times experienced on some other tours.

Guests appreciate the well-organized meal service and friendly staff onboard. The boat trip itself is described as relaxing, with several reviews highlighting the peaceful atmosphere and good quality food.

Return to Istanbul and Seamless Hotel Transfers

At the end of the day, the ferry takes travelers back to the initial pier, followed by a car transfer to the hotel. The afternoon drop-off ensures a smooth conclusion to the trip. The total timing allows for a full experience without feeling rushed, though some reviews point out that waiting times at certain points could be longer.

The return transfer is a convenient way to end the tour, especially after a busy day of sightseeing. The tour’s group size can reach up to 200 travelers, which may impact the overall experience during busy periods.

Additional Activities and Optional Extras

While included in the tour are entrance fees to the islands, drinks are not included with the lunch. Visitors can opt to rent bikes or electric buggies on the islands; tickets for these are available for purchase. Some reviews note that bike rentals are a popular way to explore Buyukada more thoroughly.

The tour also offers the chance to visit sites like the Beth Yaakov Synagogue, monastery, and church, providing insight into the islands’ rich history. However, some reviews mention overcrowding and limited time on the islands, which can restrict in-depth exploration.

Managing Expectations and Tour Experience Feedback

Most reviews acknowledge the value for money at $50, especially considering hotel transfers and the boat trip. However, there are comments about overcrowded ferries, long waiting times, and some disappointing food experiences. Several guests note that guides can vary in quality, with some praising knowledgeable and energetic individuals, while others feel guidance is lacking.

A few reviewers mention that the islands themselves don’t offer much beyond scenery and a few landmarks, so the trip suits those seeking a relaxing day and scenic views rather than a deep cultural tour.

Final Thoughts on the Princes Islands Tour

This Istanbul Princes Island Tour provides a cost-effective way to experience two of the most scenic islands near Istanbul. The hotel pickup, boat trips, and lunch create a convenient and enjoyable day out. The scenic ferry rides and strolls through charming streets are among the tour’s highlights.

However, some visitors find the guidance inconsistent and island time limited, especially if they seek a more in-depth exploration. The overcrowded ferries and variable food quality are noted downsides. Still, for those who appreciate relaxing boat trips and beautiful scenery, this tour offers solid value and memorable views.

The tour is best suited for those looking for a relaxed escape from Istanbul’s busy streets, with an interest in scenic sightseeing and light cultural visits. It remains a popular choice because of its affordable price, convenient logistics, and the chance to see the islands with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from the European side of Istanbul.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

Are drinks included with lunch?
Drinks are included with the open buffet lunch onboard, but additional drinks are not included.

Can I rent bikes on the islands?
Yes, bike rentals and electric buggy tickets are available for purchase on the islands.

What sites will I visit?
You will see Heybeliada’s Theological School, Beth Yaakov Synagogue, a monastery, and church; and Buyukada’s Clock Tower, Aya Yorgi Church, and Greek Orphanage.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but overcrowding and timing restrictions may affect those seeking a more in-depth experience or with mobility concerns.