From Istanbul: Princess Islands Guided Day Trip by Ferry

Traveling from the bustling streets of Istanbul to the peaceful shores of the Princes’ Islands offers a much-needed retreat—without breaking the bank. This guided day trip by ferry promises a relaxed way to experience two of the most beloved islands, Büyükada and Heybeliada, with plenty of free time and insightful commentary along the way. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Istanbul explorer, this tour offers a blend of scenic views, cultural highlights, and authentic local atmosphere in just one day.

What really draws us in are three key aspects: the affordable price point of just $12, the chance to see Istanbul’s skyline from the water, and the freedom to explore each island at your own pace. Plus, the presence of professional guides fluent in both English and Russian adds a layer of comfort and local insight that enhances the experience. However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves a good deal of walking, which may not suit all travelers, especially those with mobility challenges. This tour is ideal for those who love scenic cruises, want a quick yet comprehensive island experience, and don’t mind a bit of walking in a relaxed atmosphere.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At only $12, this tour offers good value, especially considering the included ferry rides and guided commentary.
• Flexible Exploration: You get around 3 hours on Büyükada and 1 hour on Heybeliada to explore independently.
• Scenic Views: Expect beautiful vistas of Istanbul’s skyline and the Marmara Sea from the boat.
• Guided Insights: Knowledgeable guides share interesting facts about landmarks, making the journey educational as well as scenic.
• Weather-Dependent: The route may change to a Bosphorus cruise if weather or ferry schedules interfere, so flexibility is key.
• Walking Heavy: Be prepared for some walking, particularly during free time on the islands.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Booking and Price Efficiency

This tour is priced at just $12 per person, making it one of the most budget-friendly options for exploring the Princes’ Islands from Istanbul. For the cost, travelers receive ferry transportation, guided commentary in English and Russian, and ample free time on two islands. Considering ferry rides alone would typically cost more if booked separately, this package offers significant value—especially for budget-conscious travelers or those who prefer a guided overview rather than DIY planning.

Starting Point and Departure

The journey kicks off at Fermeneciler Caddesi, a central location convenient for most city travelers. The tour begins at 10:00 AM, with the boat departing promptly for the Marmara Sea cruise. The boat ride itself takes about 1.5 hours, providing plenty of time to relax, enjoy the sea breeze, and absorb panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline, the Bosphorus, and the historic peninsula.

The Scenic Boat Ride

The cruise across the Marmara Sea is a highlight. We loved the calmness of the water and the unobstructed views of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks—Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Bosphorus Bridge. The live guide, speaking both English and Russian, shares tidbits about the city’s history, the continents it straddles, and the significance of various monuments passing by. A reviewer mentioned, “The guide’s commentary made the whole trip more interesting—I learned so much about the city I thought I already knew.” The boat’s large windows and open deck options mean you’ll have plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the Istanbul skyline with the minarets and domes silhouetted against the sky.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Büyükada: The Largest of the Islands

Arriving at Büyükada, the largest and most popular of the Prince Islands, sets the scene for your main exploration. The guide provides a brief orientation to help you decide how to spend your approximately 3 hours of free time. Popular options include renting bikes, walking around the charming streets, or relaxing at a seaside café.

We appreciated the flexible nature of this free time—being able to wander at our own pace, whether that meant a quick stroll along the waterfront or a longer sit-down lunch. One reviewer mentioned that the island’s tranquil atmosphere makes it a perfect escape from city noise, with the added bonus of scenic views of the sea and lush greenery. The island also offers options for swimming, and there are rental spots for bicycles, which many find a fun way to explore.

Highlights of Büyükada include:

• The historic Aya Yorgi Church on the hill, accessible via a scenic walk.
• Quiet streets lined with old wooden houses and boutique shops.
• Seaside cafes serving fresh seafood and traditional Turkish snacks.
• The opportunity to rent bikes or simply stroll along the promenade.

Transition to Heybeliada

After returning to the boat, the next stop is Heybeliada, known for its scenic natural beauty and historic sites. The boat ride is quick, about 15 minutes, giving you time to settle in and prepare for your brief exploration.

The guide offers a short overview of the island’s highlights, including the former summer residence of Turkey’s second president, which now functions as a small museum. The 1-hour free time here allows for a relaxed walk, some quick sightseeing, or a coffee break. It’s a quieter, more serene spot compared to Büyükada, and many travelers enjoy soaking in the peaceful surroundings or snapping photos of the lush hills.

Returning and Reflections

The boat departs Heybeliada around midday or early afternoon, providing a 1.5-hour scenic return journey. This segment offers an opportunity to reflect on the day, capture photos of Istanbul’s silhouette from a different angle, and relax after a day of walking and exploring.

Practical Details and Tips

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s included components—ferry transport and guided commentary—offer a lot of bang for your buck. No lunch or hotel transfer is provided, so you may want to grab a bite before or after the tour, or bring snacks along. Personal expenses like souvenirs or extra drinks are also on you.

Timing and Schedule

Starting at 10:00 AM, the tour lasts approximately 8 hours. The schedule allows for unhurried exploration with ample free time. Do note that the total time may vary depending on weather and ferry schedules, with the possibility of an alternative Bosphorus cruise route.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes are a must, given the walking involved on the islands. A camera is highly recommended to capture the scenery, along with some cash for optional purchases or snacks. Light, weather-appropriate clothing will ensure a comfortable day, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.

Accessibility and Limitations

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, due to the walking-heavy itinerary and uneven island terrain.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for an affordable, scenic day out of Istanbul with the chance to explore charming islands at your own pace, this trip fits the bill. It’s especially appealing for travelers interested in photography, casual sightseeing, or experiencing local island life without the hassle of transportation logistics.

However, those needing a more accessible or leisurely option might find the walking intensive. Also, if you’re craving a guided, structured tour with visits to specific landmarks, this free exploration format might feel a bit unstructured for your taste.

Final Thoughts

This Princess Islands day trip is a practical way for budget-conscious travelers to enjoy the natural beauty and relaxed pace of Istanbul’s nearby islands. The ferry ride itself offers stunning views and a peaceful break from urban chaos, while the free time on Büyükada and Heybeliada allows for personal discovery and authentic encounters.

The combination of affordable pricing, guided commentary, and scenic flexibility makes this tour a compelling choice for those who want a taste of island life without the fuss or high prices. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, walking, and free exploration, and who don’t mind a weather-dependent schedule.

This experience delivers great value, memorable views, and insightful guidance—perfect for a quick escape from Istanbul’s hustle.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, generally children who enjoy walking and outdoor exploration will find it enjoyable. Just keep in mind the walking involved and bring snacks or water.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
The route and schedule are weather-dependent. In case of rough seas or bad weather, the tour might switch to a Bosphorus cruise instead.

Are there any meal options included?
No, lunch or drinks are not provided, but you can purchase food on the islands or bring your own snacks.

How long is the entire tour?
The total tour lasts around 8 hours, including ferry rides, free exploration, and the return journey.

What are the main highlights I can expect on Büyükada?
You can explore scenic streets, rent bikes, visit the hilltop Aya Yorgi Church, or relax at seaside cafes.

Is the tour guided throughout?
Guided commentary is provided on the boat in English and Russian, but the island exploration is self-guided.

Can I take photos during the cruise?
Absolutely. There are many great spots on the boat for photos of Istanbul’s skyline and the sea.

Is there any flexibility in the free time?
Yes, you can choose how to spend your time on each island, whether sightseeing, relaxing, or shopping.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Smoking indoors is not allowed. The tour is walking-heavy, so plan accordingly.

In essence, this tour offers an affordable, scenic, and flexible way to discover the Princes’ Islands, combining boat rides with enough free time for personal exploration. It’s perfect for travelers keen on casual sightseeing, beautiful views, and authentic island moments, all while sticking to a budget.

You can check if your dates are available here: