What are the Princes’ Islands?
The Princes’ Islands are a group of nine small islands located in the Sea of Marmara, near the coast of Istanbul, Turkey. These islands, also known as Adalar in Turkish, have been a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life of Istanbul. The islands are characterized by their scenic beauty, charming neighborhoods, and historic landmarks, making them a popular destination for day trips and weekend getaways.
Büyükada
Büyükada is the largest and most visited of the Princes’ Islands, known for its picturesque landscapes, historic architecture, and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors to Büyükada can explore the island’s quaint villages, lush pine forests, and stunning beaches, as well as enjoy activities such as cycling, horse-drawn carriage rides, and hiking. The island is also home to several historic landmarks, including the Aya Yorgi Church and Monastery, the Splendid Palace Hotel, and the Ottoman-era mansions that dot the island’s landscape.
Heybeliada
Heybeliada is the second largest of the Princes’ Islands, known for its tranquil ambiance, charming waterfront promenades, and scenic hiking trails. Visitors to Heybeliada can explore the island’s historic sites, including the Halki Seminary, the Greek Orthodox Theological School that once served as a center of learning for the Orthodox Church. The island is also home to several sandy beaches, cozy cafes, and seafood restaurants, making it a popular destination for day trips and leisurely strolls.
Burgazada
Burgazada is the third largest of the Princes’ Islands, known for its laid-back vibe, unspoiled natural beauty, and stunning views of the Sea of Marmara. Visitors to Burgazada can explore the island’s charming villages, secluded coves, and scenic hiking trails, as well as enjoy activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The island is also home to several historic landmarks, including the Byzantine-era Ayios Ioannis Church and the hilltop Kalpazankaya Monastery, offering visitors a glimpse into the island’s rich history and culture.
Kınalıada
Kınalıada is one of the Princes’ Islands located in the Sea of Marmara, near Istanbul, Turkey. It is the fourth largest island in the archipelago and is known for its serene atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and historic landmarks. Visitors to Kınalıada can explore the island’s charming neighborhoods, relax on its sandy shores, and enjoy activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The island is also home to several historic churches and monasteries, including the Aya Yani Church and the Monastery of the Transfiguration, which offer visitors a glimpse into its rich history and culture.
Sedef Ada
Sedef Ada, also known as Mother of Pearl Island, is one of the Princes’ Islands located in the Sea of Marmara, near Istanbul, Turkey. It is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery, making it a popular destination for day trips and leisurely getaways. Visitors to Sedef Ada can enjoy activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking on its sandy shores, as well as explore the island’s charming neighborhoods and scenic hiking trails. The island is also home to several upscale restaurants and cafes, where visitors can sample fresh seafood and other local delicacies while taking in the breathtaking views of the sea.
Yassıada
Yassıada is one of the Princes’ Islands located in the Sea of Marmara, near Istanbul, Turkey. It is known for its rocky terrain, secluded coves, and historic landmarks, making it a popular destination for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors to Yassıada can explore the island’s archaeological sites, including the ruins of ancient Greek and Roman structures, as well as enjoy activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and hiking. The island is also home to several pristine beaches and scenic viewpoints, offering visitors the perfect opportunity to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the island.
Sivriada
Sivriada is one of the Princes’ Islands located in the Sea of Marmara, near Istanbul, Turkey. It is known for its rugged landscape, uninhabited shores, and diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors to Sivriada can enjoy activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and photography, as well as explore the island’s historic landmarks, including the ruins of Byzantine-era churches and monasteries. The island is also home to several pristine beaches and secluded coves, where visitors can relax and unwind in the tranquil surroundings away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Tavşan Ada
Tavşan Ada, or Rabbit Island, is one of the Princes’ Islands located in the Sea of Marmara near Istanbul, Turkey. It is named after the numerous wild rabbits that inhabit the island, adding to its charm and appeal. Tavşan Ada is known for its scenic beauty, tranquil atmosphere, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Visitors can explore the island’s lush forests, rocky cliffs, and secluded beaches, as well as enjoy activities such as hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. The island is also home to several historic landmarks, including the ruins of ancient Greek and Byzantine structures, providing visitors with a glimpse into its rich history and heritage.
Kaşıkada
Kaşıkada, or Spoon Island, is one of the Princes’ Islands located in the Sea of Marmara near Istanbul, Turkey. It is named for its shape, which resembles a spoon when viewed from above. Kaşıkada is known for its picturesque scenery, pristine beaches, and historic landmarks, making it a popular destination for day trips and leisurely getaways. Visitors to Kaşıkada can explore the island’s charming villages, lush forests, and scenic hiking trails, as well as enjoy activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The island is also home to several restaurants and cafes serving fresh seafood and other local delicacies, providing visitors with the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind in the serene surroundings.
Tickets & Tours for Princes’ Islands Istanbul
Experience the beauty and tranquility of the Princes’ Islands with tickets and tours that offer a hassle-free way to explore these idyllic destinations. Choose from a variety of options, including guided tours, boat cruises, and day trips, all designed to help you make the most of your visit to these enchanting islands. Whether you’re interested in sightseeing, outdoor activities, or simply relaxing on the beach, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on the Princes’ Islands.
What to Do in Princes’ Islands?
The Princes’ Islands offer a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From exploring historic landmarks to relaxing on pristine beaches, there’s no shortage of things to see and do on these picturesque islands. Some popular activities include:
Exploring the charming villages and historic architecture
Visiting the island’s beaches for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports
Hiking or biking along scenic trails
Sampling local cuisine at seaside restaurants and cafes
Exploring historic landmarks such as churches, monasteries, and ruins
Taking a horse-drawn carriage ride around the island
Enjoying panoramic views of the Sea of Marmara from scenic viewpoints
With so much to see and do, the Princes’ Islands offer a memorable and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
Day Trips to Princes’ Islands
Experience the beauty and charm of the Princes’ Islands with a day trip from Istanbul. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and discover the tranquility of these idyllic islands, where time seems to stand still. With convenient ferry services departing regularly from Istanbul, it’s easy to plan a day trip to the Princes’ Islands and explore their scenic beauty, historic landmarks, and charming villages. Whether you’re interested in sightseeing, outdoor activities, or simply relaxing on the beach, a day trip to the Princes’ Islands is sure to be a memorable experience.
What to Do in Büyükada?
Büyükada, the largest of the Princes’ Islands near Istanbul, offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Büyükada:
Explore the Island by Horse-Drawn Carriage: One of the most popular ways to explore Büyükada is by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride around the island. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views as you tour the island’s charming streets and historic landmarks.
Visit Aya Yorgi Monastery: Perched atop Büyükada’s highest hill, Aya Yorgi Monastery offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. Visitors can hike or take a phaeton ride to the monastery and explore its historic church and courtyard.
Relax on Büyükada Beaches: Büyükada is home to several beaches where visitors can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports. Some popular beaches include Nakibey Beach and Yörükali Beach, both of which offer crystal-clear waters and stunning views.
Explore Büyükada’s Historic Landmarks: Büyükada is dotted with historic landmarks, including the Greek Orthodox Church of Hagia Triada, the Splendid Palace Hotel, and the Büyükada Greek Orphanage. Take a leisurely stroll around the island and discover its rich history and cultural heritage.
Enjoy Fresh Seafood and Local Cuisine: Büyükada is known for its delicious seafood and traditional Turkish cuisine. Be sure to sample local specialties such as fresh fish, mezes (appetizers), and Turkish desserts at one of the island’s many restaurants and cafes.
What to Do in Heybeliada?
Heybeliada, the second largest of the Princes’ Islands, offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul. Here are some things to do in Heybeliada:
Visit the Heybeliada Monastery: Built in the 6th century, the Heybeliada Monastery is one of the island’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors can explore the monastery’s historic church, courtyard, and surrounding gardens, as well as enjoy panoramic views of the island and the Sea of Marmara.
Relax on Heybeliada Beaches: Heybeliada is home to several beaches where visitors can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports. Some popular beaches include Merdivenli Beach and Değirmenburnu Beach, both of which offer stunning views and crystal-clear waters.
Explore Heybeliada’s Charming Streets: Take a leisurely stroll around Heybeliada and discover its charming streets, historic buildings, and scenic viewpoints. Be sure to visit the island’s colorful marina, where you can watch local fishermen at work and enjoy views of the surrounding islands.
Hike or Bike Through Heybeliada’s Forests: Heybeliada is known for its lush forests and scenic hiking and biking trails. Spend a day exploring the island’s natural beauty and enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding landscape.
Sample Local Cuisine: Heybeliada is home to several restaurants and cafes serving delicious seafood and traditional Turkish cuisine. Be sure to try local specialties such as grilled fish, mezes, and Turkish desserts, and enjoy a leisurely meal overlooking the sea.
How to Get to the Princes’ Islands and Back to Istanbul?
Getting to the Princes’ Islands from Istanbul is easy and convenient, thanks to regular ferry services departing from several points in the city. Here’s how to get to the islands and back to Istanbul:
Take a Ferry from Kabataş, Eminönü, or Üsküdar: Ferries to the Princes’ Islands depart regularly from Kabataş, Eminönü, and Üsküdar, three major ferry terminals in Istanbul. The ferry ride takes approximately 1-1.5 hours, depending on which island you’re visiting.
Choose Your Island Destination: There are several islands to choose from, including Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada. Each island has its own unique attractions and charm, so be sure to research and decide which one you’d like to visit.
Purchase Ferry Tickets: Ferry tickets can be purchased at the ferry terminals or online in advance. Be sure to check the ferry schedule and plan your trip accordingly, as ferry departure times may vary depending on the season and day of the week.
Enjoy Your Island Visit: Once you arrive at your chosen island, take some time to explore its attractions, relax on its beaches, and enjoy its scenic beauty. You can also rent bikes or take horse-drawn carriage rides to explore the islands further.
Return to Istanbul: When you’re ready to return to Istanbul, simply catch a ferry back from the island to the city. Ferries run regularly throughout the day, so you’ll have plenty of options for your return journey. Be sure to check the ferry schedule to ensure you don’t miss your ride back to Istanbul.
Hotels in the Princes’ Islands
The Princes’ Islands, located near Istanbul in the Sea of Marmara, offer a serene and picturesque escape from the bustling city life. While the islands are primarily known for their natural beauty and historic landmarks, they also boast a selection of hotels and accommodations for visitors looking to extend their stay. Here are some hotels in the Princes’ Islands:
Splendid Palace Hotel: Situated on Büyükada, the largest of the Princes’ Islands, the Splendid Palace Hotel offers elegant accommodations and stunning views of the sea. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and easy access to the island’s beaches and attractions.
Buyukada Cankaya Hotel: Located in the heart of Büyükada, Buyukada Cankaya Hotel is a charming boutique hotel housed in a historic building. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a garden courtyard, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the island.
Ascot Hotel Buyukada: Nestled amidst lush gardens on Büyükada, Ascot Hotel Buyukada offers a tranquil retreat for guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The hotel boasts tastefully decorated rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving delicious Turkish cuisine.
Heybeliada Hotel: Situated on Heybeliada, the second largest of the Princes’ Islands, Heybeliada Hotel offers comfortable accommodations in a scenic waterfront setting. Guests can unwind in cozy rooms, dine at the hotel’s restaurant, and explore the island’s beaches and historic sites.
Splendid Palace Suites: For travelers seeking self-catering accommodations, Splendid Palace Suites on Büyükada offers spacious and well-equipped apartments with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the freedom and flexibility of apartment living while experiencing the charm of island life.
These are just a few of the hotels available in the Princes’ Islands, each offering its own unique blend of comfort, hospitality, and island charm.
Why is it called Princes’ Islands?
The Princes’ Islands, known as “Adalar” in Turkish, are a group of nine small islands located in the Sea of Marmara near Istanbul, Turkey. The name “Princes’ Islands” is derived from the islands’ historical association with Byzantine and Ottoman princes and aristocrats.
During the Byzantine and Ottoman periods, the Princes’ Islands served as a place of exile for members of the royal family and other high-ranking individuals who had fallen out of favor with the ruling authorities. As a result, the islands became known as the “Princes’ Islands” due to their association with these exiled princes and aristocrats.
Today, the Princes’ Islands are a popular tourist destination known for their natural beauty, historic landmarks, and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors flock to the islands to enjoy leisurely walks, bike rides, and horse-drawn carriage tours, as well as swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the islands’ charming villages and beaches.
Where are the Princes’ Islands?
The Princes’ Islands are located in the Sea of Marmara, just off the coast of Istanbul, Turkey. The islands are part of the Adalar district of Istanbul and are easily accessible by ferry from the city.
The Princes’ Islands consist of nine small islands, the largest of which are Büyükada (Big Island) and Heybeliada (Saddlebag Island). Other islands in the group include Burgazada, Kınalıada, and Sedefada, among others.
The islands are known for their scenic beauty, historic landmarks, and relaxed atmosphere, making them a popular day trip destination for both tourists and locals alike. Visitors to Istanbul often take the opportunity to explore the Princes’ Islands and enjoy a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
How to Get to Princes’ Islands from Istanbul?
The Princes’ Islands, located just off the coast of Istanbul in the Sea of Marmara, are a popular day trip destination for visitors looking to escape the city and enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the islands. Here are some ways to get to the Princes’ Islands from Istanbul:
Ferry: The most common way to reach the Princes’ Islands is by ferry from Istanbul. Ferries depart regularly from several locations along the city’s coast, including Kabataş, Üsküdar, and Bostancı. The journey takes approximately 1-1.5 hours, depending on the departure point and the island you’re visiting.
Private Boat or Yacht: For a more luxurious and personalized experience, you can charter a private boat or yacht to take you to the Princes’ Islands. This option allows you to enjoy the scenic views and pristine waters of the Sea of Marmara at your own pace.
Seabus: Some fast ferries, known as seabus or sea bus, also operate between Istanbul and the Princes’ Islands. These high-speed vessels offer a quicker journey compared to traditional ferries but may have fewer departure times.
Once you arrive at the Princes’ Islands, you can explore the islands on foot, by bicycle, or by horse-drawn carriage. Each island has its own unique charm and attractions, including historic landmarks, scenic viewpoints, and beautiful beaches.
Are There Places to Swim on the Princes’ Islands?
Yes, there are several places to swim on the Princes’ Islands, making them a popular destination for beachgoers and sun seekers. Each of the main islands in the group, including Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada, has its own designated swimming areas and beaches where visitors can enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Sea of Marmara.
Some of the most popular beaches on the Princes’ Islands include:
Naki Bey Beach (Büyükada): Located on the northern coast of Büyükada, Naki Bey Beach is a scenic spot with clear turquoise waters and panoramic views of the sea. Visitors can rent sun loungers and umbrellas or simply spread out a towel on the pebbly shore.
Kumsal Beach (Heybeliada): Situated near the ferry dock on Heybeliada, Kumsal Beach is a convenient and family-friendly spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach offers calm waters and shallow depths, making it ideal for children and less experienced swimmers.
Kalpazankaya Beach (Burgazada): Tucked away on the southern coast of Burgazada, Kalpazankaya Beach is a secluded and peaceful retreat surrounded by lush greenery. The beach features rocky cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
In addition to these designated beaches, there are also several smaller coves and rocky outcrops where visitors can find quiet spots to swim and sunbathe away from the crowds.
History of the Princes’ Islands
The Princes’ Islands, known as Adalar in Turkish, have a rich and storied history dating back centuries. Located in the Sea of Marmara, just off the coast of Istanbul, the islands have played various roles throughout history and have been inhabited by different civilizations over the years.
During the Byzantine and Ottoman periods, the Princes’ Islands served as a place of exile for members of the royal family and other high-ranking individuals who had fallen out of favor with the ruling authorities. Exiled princes, princesses, and political figures were banished to the islands, where they lived in exile until their circumstances changed or they were pardoned by the ruling sultan.
In addition to their role as a place of exile, the Princes’ Islands also served as a retreat for wealthy Istanbulites seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Wealthy families built summer houses and mansions on the islands, many of which still stand today as historic landmarks.