Princes' Islands | TravelDojo

An archipelago in the Sea of Marmara just off Istanbul, the Princes’ Islands are a group of mainly residential and resort islands notable for being largely car-free and for their historic wooden architecture. The islands have been a popular summer retreat for Istanbul residents since the Ottoman period.

The largest and most visited island is Büyükada, with steep lanes, Victorian-era wooden houses and the hilltop Aya Yorgi church providing panoramic views. Other islands of interest include Heybeliada, with its former theological school and shaded avenues, and Burgazada, which is smaller and quieter but popular for short stays.

The islands were used in Byzantine times as places of exile for members of the imperial family, which is the origin of the English name Princes’ Islands. During the 19th century they became summer resorts for wealthy Istanbul residents and many mansions and pine-lined promenades were built.

Geographically the islands sit in the Sea of Marmara off the coast of Istanbul and are reached by regular ferries from multiple piers in the city. Travel times vary by vessel and departure point, making them accessible for day trips from central Istanbul.

Access: Ferries run regularly from several piers in Istanbul; typical crossings range from about 30 minutes on a fast boat to longer on public ferries.
Transport rules: Motor vehicles are generally restricted across the islands, so travel is mainly on foot, by bicycle or by small electric vehicles.
Best time to visit: Busiest in spring and summer when local residents and day-trippers use the islands as a cooler getaway from the city.

What to See #

Büyükada: The largest island in the group, known for its 19th and early 20th century wooden mansions, the hill-top **Aya Yorgi** church and panoramic views over the Sea of Marmara.
Heybeliada: Home to the historic Theological School of Halki and tree-lined avenues, with many mansions and small parks.
Burgazada: A smaller, residential island with a literary association and shorefront promenades popular for short visits.
Kınalıada: Closest of the main islands to Istanbul and characterized by rockier shorelines and small beaches.
Sedef Adası: A privately developed island with low-density housing and restricted development compared with the larger islands.

How to Get to Princes' Islands #

The Princes’ Islands (Adalar) are reached from Istanbul by ferry. Public ferries and sea buses depart regularly from the European and Asian sides - common departure points include Kabataş, Eminönü, Kadıköy and Bostancı - operated by Şehir Hatları and private ferry companies. Travel time varies by departure point and island (e.g., Büyükada ~40-70 minutes); from the island ferry quay most main sights are a short walk (typically under 15 minutes) or reachable by island taxi (horse carriage/electric cart). From central Istanbul you can reach ferry terminals by tram, metro or bus (for example Kabataş is accessible by the T1 tram line).

Tips for Visiting Princes' Islands #

Take the first morning ferry from Kabataş or Eminönü to the Princes' Islands (Büyükada for easiest access) to enjoy quieter streets and better chances of a peaceful bike or walk before day-trippers and cruise-ship visitors arrive.
Avoid weekends if possible-locals flock to the islands on Saturdays and Sundays, especially Büyükada; for a calmer experience choose a weekday and get off at Burgazada or Heybeliada for a less touristy feel.
Use the municipal Şehir Hatları ferries rather than private high-speed operators for a scenic, budget-friendly crossing and to arrive at central, well-located docks that put you within easy walking distance of the main sights.
Most visitors miss the smaller islands' inland hikes and historic monasteries-plan to hop off at multiple islands (for example Heybeliada's Halki Seminary or Burgazada's coastal paths) instead of staying only on Büyükada's main waterfront.