From Istanbul: Princes Island Tour with 2 Islands

If you’re looking for a way to escape the hustle of Istanbul and soak in some serene seaside scenery, a trip to the Princes Islands is hard to beat. This 8-hour tour combines scenic ferry rides, historic mansions, and free time to relax or explore at your own pace. As someone who’s researched and reviewed many guided experiences, I’ll share what makes this tour stand out — and where it might fall short.

We love how it offers a perfect mix of sightseeing, cultural insights, and leisurely downtime. The highlight is definitely the ferry cruise, which provides stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline and the chance to feed seagulls gliding overhead. The electric car tour around Büyükada’s charming streets is another favorite, allowing you to see the majestic Ottoman-era mansions comfortably. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy a fresh, seasonal lunch on board or on the island is a real treat.

One thing to consider is that the tour’s flexibility depends on the day and weather conditions. During summer months, beach access and swimming might be more appealing, but entrance fees could apply. Also, if you prefer to explore on your own, some parts of the tour are optional, so you’ll want to plan your time accordingly.

This tour is ideal for travelers craving a peaceful, scenic day away from Istanbul’s busy streets. Whether you’re into history, architecture, or just want to relax by the sea, it offers great value for a full day’s worth of memorable experiences.

Good To Know

• Scenic ferry cruise with insightful commentary from guides
• Comfortable electric car tour showcasing Büyükada’s historic mansions
• Leisure time on two different islands for relaxing or exploring
• Gourmet seasonal lunch included, with options to dine on the boat or island
• Flexible options for pickup and drop-off, with some free time for shopping or beach visits
• Authentic insights from previous travelers about helpful guides and beautiful views

You can check if your dates are available here:

Why the Princes Islands Tour is a Must-Do

The main draw of this tour is undoubtedly the chance to see the Princes Islands, especially Büyükada, from the sea and on land. The boat ride itself is a calming experience, offering panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline and the shimmering sea. Travelers often mention how feeding seagulls during the cruise adds a playful touch, making it a family-friendly activity.

Once on Büyükada, the guide’s commentary — often provided in English and Russian — gives context to the island’s history as a place of exile and its Byzantine roots. Standing among the elegant wooden mansions, you’ll see architecture that harks back to the late Ottoman period, with some structures still preserved beautifully today. The electric car tour is a thoughtful way to see the best sights comfortably, without the fatigue of walking long distances.

The leisure component is flexible — some visitors enjoy lounging on one of the island’s beaches, while others prefer wandering the quiet streets, popping into cafes, or shopping for souvenirs. The reviews highlight how well-organized the trip is, with many appreciating the timely pickups and smooth transitions between activities.

The lunch experience is another highlight, especially during the summer when it’s served directly on the boat. The seasonal menu tends to be fresh and satisfying, giving you the perfect fuel for the afternoon’s free time. During winter, you’ll likely enjoy the cozy atmosphere at a local restaurant.

The second, smaller island included in the tour offers a quick scenic visit with about an hour of free time, often used for a quick walk or some photo snapshots. While its size isn’t comparable to Büyükada, it adds a nice variation to the day’s scenery.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour usually starts with hotel pickup (if you select that option), streamlining your day and avoiding the hassle of finding the meeting point. The coach ride to the port is comfortable, and the boat itself is typically well-maintained. The total duration of 8 hours makes it a full but manageable day, especially since much of the time is spent outdoors enjoying nature and scenery.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, who share interesting insights about the island’s history and architecture. Lydia described her experience as “wonderful,” especially enjoying the peaceful streets and the breeze while biking. Giulia highlighted how visiting the beaches and swimming was a perfect way to enjoy a sunny day, emphasizing the clean waters.

Others mention how the trip offers a “nice break from city noise” and note the helpful staff who ensure smooth logistics. The food, often described as “hot and nice,” is appreciated as a refreshing addition to the day. Many reviewers also mention how the trip is suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a tranquil escape.

Drawbacks and Considerations

Although highly praised, some travelers noted that the limited time on each island can feel a bit rushed, especially if you want to explore more thoroughly. The free time is usually about an hour on the second island, which might not be enough for those wanting an in-depth exploration or beach day.

During summer, the beach entrance fee isn’t included and may add to your total costs if you choose to swim or spend time on the sands. Also, the electric car is an optional extra, and some guests might find renting bikes more economical if they prefer more active exploration.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for anyone wanting a peaceful day out, with a good balance of guided sightseeing and leisure. It’s suitable for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, historic architecture, and leisurely walks. Families, couples, and solo travelers will find it easy to fit into the group and enjoy the laid-back island atmosphere.

If you’re after a more active or independent experience, you might want to consider renting bikes or spending more time on the beaches. Conversely, if you’re seeking a well-organized, informative day with minimal fuss, this tour ticks all boxes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option, the tour provides pickup and drop-off from designated hotels, making the start and end of your day very convenient.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, including transportation, boat rides, sightseeing, and free time on the islands.

Can I choose to dine on the island instead of on the boat?
The lunch is usually served on the boat during summer, but during winter, it’s typically at a cozy local restaurant. You’ll have the chance to enjoy fresh seasonal dishes regardless.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the relaxed pace and scenic nature make it family-friendly. Feeding seagulls and exploring the charming streets are enjoyable activities for kids.

Are entrance fees to beaches included?
No, beach entrance fees during the summer months are not included and will be an extra if you wish to swim or relax on the sands.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak English and Russian, providing insights and answering questions in both languages.

Final Thoughts

This Princes Islands tour offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, historical charm, and relaxed leisure. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want to escape the busy streets of Istanbul and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea. The mix of guided insights, free time, and delicious seasonal food makes it a well-rounded experience that delivers good value for the price.

While the limited time on each island means you won’t see everything in-depth, it’s enough to get a real taste of the islands’ beauty and history. The scenic ferry ride, the majestic mansions, and the peaceful atmosphere make this tour memorable and worthwhile.

If you’re after a straightforward, enjoyable day that combines nature, history, and comfort, this tour is a reliable choice. It’s best suited for those who prefer guided experiences with some flexibility, especially if you want to relax and take in the views at your own pace.

This Princes Islands tour from Istanbul is a delightful way to spend a day, offering a break from city life and a chance to enjoy the tranquil beauty of Turkey’s famed islands.

You can check if your dates are available here: