Princes’ Islands Tour from Istanbul Lunch Included

Explore Istanbul’s Princes’ Islands for $39 with a Guided Day Trip

This Princes’ Islands Tour from Istanbul offers a relaxing escape to the largest island, Büyükada, on the Sea of Marmara. Priced at $39.17 per person, it delivers a full-day experience that combines scenic boat rides, guided walking tours, and leisure time on the islands. The tour is 7 to 8 hours long and includes hotel pickup and drop-off with an air-conditioned coach, making it convenient and comfortable.

Traveling by ferry and electric car carriage, visitors enjoy a car-free ambiance that highlights the islands’ peaceful charm. The tour features a lunch with fresh, seasonal specialties and free time for swimming, shopping, or wandering through the Ottoman mansions. While this tour offers a straightforward way to see the islands, some reviews mention variability in guide quality and the pace of the trip. Overall, it suits visitors seeking a relaxed sightseeing day with convenient logistics.

Key Points

• Full-day trip from Istanbul to the Princes’ Islands, mainly Büyükada
• Includes ferry cruise, electric car ride, and guided walking tours
• Price of $39.17, with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Lunch with fresh, seasonal products and free time for swimming or shopping
• Tour duration is 7 to 8 hours, suitable for a relaxing day out
• Some reviews note variable guide quality and disruptions at the end

Departure and Arrival: Central Istanbul Pickup to Unkapani Pier

The tour departs from Ahrkap Skelesi Sultan Ahmet in Fatih district. Guests are picked up in air-conditioned vehicles, making the journey to Unkapani Pier smooth and comfortable. The round-trip boat crossing to Büyükada is a central part of the experience, with scenic views across the Sea of Marmara.

The meeting point is near public transportation options, simplifying access, and the group size is typically up to 50 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable atmosphere. This setup helps travelers avoid the hassle of organizing transport or planning access to the islands independently.

Visiting the Iconic Topkapi Palace and Maiden’s Tower

While the main focus is on the Princes’ Islands, the tour also includes a stop at Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman Sultans. Visitors admire the palace’s imperial treasury, sacred Islamic relics, kitchen, and Chinese porcelain collections. The guide provides commentary, although special sections like the treasury are not narrated due to restrictions.

An outside view of the Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi) in Üsküdar also features in the itinerary, offering a classic photo opportunity and a glimpse of Istanbul’s skyline. These stops complement the island visits with a taste of Istanbul’s historic sights.

Scenic Cruise to Heybeliada and the Pine Forest Walk

After boarding the boat, the tour heads to Heybeliada, the second-largest island. The scenic cruise across the Marmara takes approximately one hour, providing views of the coastline and the sea. Visitors then enjoy a walking tour with a local guide, riding through pine forests, alongside picturesque bays and historic villas.

While this part of the tour is free of charge, reviews suggest that guidance during the island walk can vary. Some mention a lack of detailed explanations, but the natural scenery and quaint streets make this a pleasant stop regardless.

Lunch and Leisure Time at Büyükada

The tour includes a restaurant stop where visitors can enjoy seafood and other seasonal specialties. This lunch break typically lasts around two hours, giving ample time to relax and revitalize before more free time.

After lunch, guests are encouraged to swim, browse local shops, or explore the Ottoman mansions. Some reviews note that shops and restaurants might close during the off-season, so expectations should be adjusted accordingly. The beach area offers an opportunity to dip into the sea or simply soak up the laid-back island atmosphere.

End-of-Day Leather Shopping and Return to Istanbul

The final part of the tour involves a visit to a leather shop, where travelers can browse handcrafted leather products. This shopping stop lasts about an hour and is often described as a high-quality experience, although some reviews critique it as a “hard sell.”

Following the shopping, guests are transferred back to their hotels in Istanbul. The drop-off concludes the day, bringing guests directly to their accommodations in comfort. Some reviews mention disruptions at the end, such as unexpected shopping stops or rushed schedules, but overall, the logistics aim for a stress-free return.

The Electric Car Carriage and Island Exploration

While the tour emphasizes electric car transportation, reviews indicate that not all guides provide detailed commentary during the electric cart ride on the island. Instead, explanations are often given at the end of the ride, which some may find less engaging.

The car-free environment of Büyükada is one of its highlights, allowing visitors to walk freely or enjoy the peaceful streets without concern for traffic. The electric vehicles help preserve the quaint charm, though visitors should not expect guided narration during the ride itself.

Practical Tips for Tour Participants

The tour’s timing and pacing depend heavily on ferry schedules and group size. Some reviews mention long waits or delays, especially with ferry departures or during busy seasons. It’s wise to arrive early and manage expectations regarding guidance and free time.

Comfortable clothing and swimwear are recommended if wishing to swim at the beach. Since lunch is included, bringing extra snacks or drinks is unnecessary, though some reviews note additional charges for drinks and snacks after the meal. The tour is accessible to most travelers but might be less suitable for those with mobility issues due to walking on uneven surfaces and the longer boat rides.

The Value and Limitations of the Experience

At $39.17, this tour offers good value for a full day of sightseeing, combining scenic boat cruises, guided island walks, and leisure activities. The included lunch and hotel pickup add convenience, making it a practical choice for visitors who want a guided experience without the hassle of planning.

However, some reviews highlight variable guide quality and disruptions at the end, such as unscheduled shopping stops. Plus, the lack of detailed commentary during the electric cart ride and variable shop hours may affect the overall experience. This tour is best suited for those seeking relaxed sightseeing and easy logistics rather than in-depth historical insights.

Princes’ Islands Tour for Relaxed Sightseeing with Convenient Logistics

This Princes’ Islands Tour from Istanbul offers a comfortable, scenic escape from the city hustle, perfect for travelers wanting an easy way to see Büyükada and Heybeliada. The boat cruise and leisure time allow for a laid-back day, while the lunch and shopping stops add touches of local flavor and souvenirs.

The main limitations stem from the variable quality of guidance and timing issues, so travelers who value detailed historical narration or strict schedules might find it less satisfying. Still, the peaceful island atmosphere and beautiful scenery make this tour a worthwhile outing for those who want relaxed sightseeing with minimal planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, depending on the booking option, making the day hassle-free.

How long does the ferry ride take?
The round-trip boat crossing lasts approximately two hours, offering scenic views of the Sea of Marmara.

What activities are available during free time on Büyükada?
Visitors can swim at the beach, shop for souvenirs, or explore Ottoman mansions. The availability of shops may vary by season.

What does the tour include?
The tour features round-trip ferry, electric car ride, guided walking tours, a lunch with seasonal specialties, and a leather shopping stop.

Are there any significant drawbacks?
Some reviews mention longer waits, variable guide explanations, and unscheduled shopping stops, which may affect the experience for some travelers.

Can I explore the islands on my own instead of the tour?
Yes, some suggest that getting a ferry independently and exploring might offer more flexibility and personal pace, especially if familiar with the islands.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
The tour involves walking, boat rides, and electric cart rides, which may be challenging for some with mobility concerns. Physical comfort should be considered.

What is the overall value of this tour?
At $39.17, it offers good value for a full-day guided experience with amenities included, though guide quality and timing can vary.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable clothing, swimwear for the beach, and extra drinks or snacks if desired, as additional charges may apply for drinks at some stops.

Would you recommend this tour?
It’s a solid choice for relaxed sightseeing and convenience, especially for those who prefer organized logistics and leisurely exploration.