Embark on an exclusive journey to Heybeliada and Büyükada, the two most iconic islands of Istanbul’s Princes’ Islands. This private full-day tour is designed to provide a seamless and tranquil escape, offering natural beauty, fascinating history, and personalized service. From hotel pick-up to drop-off, enjoy the comfort and flexibility of a tailored itinerary.
Table of Contents
Overview
Begin your day with a private hotel pick-up and transfer to the ferry terminal. Sail across the scenic Sea of Marmara to reach Heybeliada, the first stop of your journey. Discover the serene streets of this peaceful island, with its picturesque views and lush greenery.
Next, head to Büyükada, the largest and most popular of the Princes’ Islands. Explore its rich history, late Ottoman-era wooden mansions, and charming coastline. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant and spend the rest of your time at leisure, soaking in the beauty of the island.
At the end of the day, return to Istanbul by ferry, where your private driver will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.
Tour Program
- HOTEL PICK-UP AND FERRY TRANSFER: Start your day with a private pick-up from your Istanbul hotel and a transfer to the ferry terminal. From here, embark on a relaxing ferry ride across the Sea of Marmara to the Princes’ Islands.
- HEBEYLIADA: THE TRANQUIL RETREAT: Your first stop is Heybeliada, a serene island known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful landscapes. Take a guided stroll through its charming streets, learning about its history and local culture. Spend approximately one hour exploring this hidden gem before boarding the boat to your next destination.
- BÜYÜKADA: THE LARGEST PRINCES’ ISLAND: Arrive at Büyükada, the crown jewel of the Princes’ Islands. With your guide, walk past the elegant wooden mansions that reflect the grandeur of the late Ottoman period. Learn about the island’s fascinating history, including its use as a place of exile for Byzantine royalty and statesmen.
- LUNCH AT A LOCAL RESTAURANT: Enjoy a delightful lunch at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood or traditional Turkish dishes while taking in the stunning coastal views.
- LEISURE TIME ON THE ISLAND: After lunch, spend some free time exploring Büyükada at your own pace. Stroll along its peaceful streets, visit local shops, or simply relax by the sea and take in the serene surroundings.
- RETURN TO ISTANBUL: Rejoin your guide at the port and board the ferry back to Istanbul. Your private driver will be waiting at the terminal to return you to your hotel after this unforgettable day.
Included
- Private hotel pick-up and drop-off by air-conditioned vehicle
- Round-trip ferry tickets
- Professional licensed tour guide
- Lunch at a seaside restaurant
- Service charges and local taxes
Excluded
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
- Optional activities or attractions on the islands
Important Notes
- Tailored Private Experience: This tour is fully private and customizable. Whether you want to spend more time exploring Büyükada or take additional stops, the itinerary can be adjusted to suit your preferences.
- Best Time to Visit: The Princes’ Islands are ideal for visits in spring, summer, or early autumn when the weather is mild and the natural beauty of the islands is at its peak.
A Sustainable Transformation - From Horse Carriages to Electric Vehicles
The Princes’ Islands were once renowned for their horse-drawn carriages, which added a nostalgic charm to the islands’ peaceful atmosphere. However, under the leadership of Istanbul Metropolitan Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, a transformative step was taken to promote sustainability and animal welfare.
The horse-drawn carriages were replaced with modern, eco-friendly electric vehicles, providing a quieter, cleaner, and more comfortable way to explore the islands. This change reflects a commitment to preserving the islands’ tranquility while embracing environmentally conscious practices. Visitors can now enjoy Heybeliada and Büyükada responsibly, with zero-emission vehicles enhancing the islands’ unique charm.
Rates and Reservations
Escape the busy streets of Istanbul with this exclusive private tour to the Princes’ Islands. As The Other Tour, we specialize in crafting personalized travel experiences with flexible itineraries and expert guidance to ensure a seamless and unforgettable journey.
Contact us today for pricing and availability, and let us create the perfect island getaway for you!
