Princes Island Tour Istanbul

Q: How long does the Princes Island Tour Istanbul take?

The Princes Island Tour Istanbul is a full-day experience lasting approximately 9 hours. The exact return time may vary depending on maritime conditions, docking schedules and Istanbul traffic.

Q: What time does the Princes' Islands tour start?

The main tour program begins at approximately 9:00 AM. Hotel pickup takes place earlier according to the location of your accommodation.

Q: Which Princes' Islands do we visit?

The planned itinerary includes Kinaliada, Heybeliada and Buyukada, allowing you to experience three different islands during the same full-day tour.

Q: Do we visit Buyukada?

Yes. Buyukada, the largest and best-known of the Princes' Islands, is one of the main stops on the tour. You will have time to explore the waterfront and central areas of the island.

Q: Do we visit Heybeliada?

Yes. The tour includes a stop on Heybeliada, where you can enjoy its waterfront, streets and relaxed island atmosphere.

★★★★★5 Kabatas, Istanbul

From~~€45~~€35per person

Overview Highlights Itinerary Map Good to know FAQ Check availability

DurationApproximately 9 hours

Group sizeSmall Group

LanguageEnglish

Meeting pointKabatas, Istanbul

Overview

Escape the busy streets of Istanbul for a full-day Princes Island Tour Istanbul experience visiting Kinaliada, Heybeliada and Buyukada. Cruise across the Sea of Marmara, explore three distinctive islands with a professional guide, enjoy lunch on board and discover waterfront neighborhoods, historic houses and peaceful island scenery.

Duration: Approximately 9 hours
Tour Type: Full-Day Guided Island Cruise
Language: English
Departure: Approximately 9:00 AM
Pickup: Selected centrally located hotels in Istanbul
Islands Visited: Kinaliada, Heybeliada & Buyukada
Lunch: Included on board

Leave central Istanbul behind for a day and discover a completely different side of the city on our Princes Island Tour Istanbul, a full-day guided cruise visiting Kinaliada, Heybeliada and Buyukada in the Sea of Marmara.

The experience begins with hotel pickup from selected central areas before boarding the tour boat for the journey away from Istanbul’s urban shoreline.

Rather than spending the entire day on a single island, this itinerary introduces you to three different Princes’ Islands, each with its own atmosphere and character.

Start with Kinaliada, the closest of the three to central Istanbul, before continuing to the greener landscapes and relaxed waterfront of Heybeliada. The journey then reaches Buyukada, the largest and best-known of the Princes’ Islands, where historic houses, tree-lined streets and seaside views create a striking contrast to mainland Istanbul.

During the day, your professional guide provides information about the islands and their connection with Istanbul’s Byzantine and Ottoman past while allowing time to experience their quieter modern character.

Lunch is served on board during the cruise, giving you time to relax between island visits while enjoying views across the Sea of Marmara.

With transportation, guiding, lunch, three island stops and hotel transfers combined in one approximately nine-hour program, this tour is an easy way to experience the Princes’ Islands without organizing separate ferry journeys and island connections yourself.

Highlights

Full-day Princes Island Tour Istanbul
Approximately 9 hours of sightseeing and cruising
Visit three different Princes' Islands in one day
Explore Kinaliada
Visit the waterfront and neighborhoods of Heybeliada
Discover Buyukada, the largest of the Princes' Islands
Scenic boat journey across the Sea of Marmara
Guided sightseeing and island commentary
Free time to experience the atmosphere of each island
See historic island houses and waterfront neighborhoods
Enjoy greener and quieter surroundings away from central Istanbul
Lunch served on board the tour boat
Professional English-speaking tour guide
Hotel pickup and drop-off from selected central Istanbul areas
Convenient full-day itinerary without arranging separate ferry tickets

Includes / Excludes

Included

Hotel pickup from selected centrally located hotels
Hotel drop-off after the tour
Round-trip boat transportation
Visits to Kinaliada, Heybeliada and Buyukada
Professional English-speaking tour guide
Guided information throughout the tour
Free time during island stops
Lunch served on board
Professional boat crew

Not included

Drinks during lunch
Alcoholic beverages
Optional island transportation or activities
Personal expenses
Additional food and drinks
Gratuities

Itinerary

Route & stops

Hotel Pickup and Transfer to the Boat

Your Princes Island Tour Istanbul begins with pickup from selected centrally located hotels.

Pickup times vary according to hotel location and Istanbul traffic, with the main tour program scheduled to begin at approximately 9:00 AM.

Meet your guide and continue to the embarkation point for your full-day journey across the Sea of Marmara.

Depart Istanbul for the Princes' Islands

Board the tour boat and leave Istanbul's busy urban shoreline behind.

As the boat travels into the Sea of Marmara, settle into the journey and enjoy views back toward Istanbul.

Your guide introduces the day's route and provides background about the Princes' Islands before reaching the first stop.

The atmosphere gradually changes as the dense city skyline gives way to open water and the distinctive silhouettes of the islands.

First Stop – Kinaliada

The first island visit is Kinaliada, one of the smaller inhabited Princes' Islands.

Step ashore and experience a quieter waterfront environment only a boat journey away from central Istanbul.

Your guide introduces the island before you have time to explore the immediate area, walk along the waterfront and enjoy the local atmosphere.

Kinaliada provides an ideal introduction to the archipelago before the journey continues toward the larger islands.

Cruise from Kinaliada to Heybeliada

Return to the boat and continue across the Sea of Marmara toward Heybeliada.

The journey between the islands provides time to relax on board and enjoy views of the surrounding coastline and neighboring islands.

As Heybeliada approaches, its greener hills and waterfront settlement create a noticeably different landscape from Kinaliada.

Explore Heybeliada

Step ashore on Heybeliada for the second island visit of the day.

Enjoy time to experience the waterfront, traditional streets and peaceful island atmosphere while your guide shares information about the area.

Walk through the central neighborhood, photograph the historic architecture or simply enjoy the slower pace of island life.

The absence of central Istanbul's heavy road traffic gives the Princes' Islands much of their distinctive character and makes walking one of the best ways to experience the surroundings.

Lunch on Board

Return to the boat and relax as lunch is served during the cruise.

The standard meal generally includes traditional cold appetizers or meze, grilled chicken, rice, salad and fruit.

Drinks are not included and can be purchased separately.

Enjoy the meal while traveling across the Sea of Marmara toward the final and largest island of the day.

Arrival at Buyukada

Continue to Buyukada, the largest and most famous of Istanbul's Princes' Islands.

Approaching from the sea provides attractive views of the waterfront, historic buildings and green hills rising behind the town.

After disembarking, your guide introduces the island and explains the available free time and meeting arrangements.

Discover Buyukada

Spend time exploring the distinctive atmosphere of Buyukada.

Walk through streets lined with historic houses, browse local shops and cafes, explore the waterfront or simply enjoy the island's relaxed pace.

The island's architecture and natural surroundings provide a significant contrast to the dense urban landscape of central Istanbul.

Your free time allows you to choose how actively you would like to explore. You can walk through the central streets, relax at the waterfront, enjoy refreshments at a local cafe or take photographs of the island scenery.

Optional local transportation and additional activities are not included unless specifically stated in your reservation.

Free Time on Buyukada

Enjoy additional free time to experience Buyukada at your own pace.

Travelers interested in architecture can explore the streets around the town center, while those looking for a more relaxed visit can spend time along the waterfront.

Your guide will provide the required meeting time for returning to the boat.

Please make sure to return to the agreed meeting point on time so the group can continue the scheduled journey back to Istanbul.

Return Cruise to Istanbul

Reboard the boat and begin the return journey across the Sea of Marmara.

After a full day exploring three different islands, relax on board and enjoy the changing views as Istanbul's skyline gradually returns to the horizon.

The return cruise offers a comfortable conclusion to the day's sightseeing.

Hotel Drop-Off

After arriving back in Istanbul, guests eligible for the included transfer service will be taken back to their selected centrally located hotels.

The complete Princes Island Tour Istanbul lasts approximately 9 hours, although the exact finishing time may vary depending on maritime conditions, island traffic, docking schedules and road traffic in Istanbul.

Good to know

Important information

The complete tour lasts approximately 9 hours.
The main tour program begins at approximately 9:00 AM.
The itinerary includes Kinaliada, Heybeliada and Buyukada.
Lunch is included and normally served on board the boat.
Drinks with lunch are not included.
Island visits combine guided information with free time for independent exploration.
Comfortable walking is required during the island stops.
Island transportation and optional activities are not included unless specifically confirmed.
Island stop durations may vary according to maritime traffic, weather and docking conditions.
The exact order of the islands may occasionally change for operational reasons.
The tour operates on the Sea of Marmara and may be affected by strong winds or adverse weather.
Return time may vary according to maritime and Istanbul traffic conditions.

What to bring

Comfortable walking shoes
Comfortable seasonal clothing
A light jacket or sweater for the boat
Sunglasses
Sun protection during warmer months
Camera or smartphone
Your booking confirmation
Cash or payment card for drinks and personal purchases
Personal medication if required

Pickup & meeting

Hotel pickup and drop-off are available from selected centrally located hotels in Istanbul. Your exact pickup time will be confirmed after booking according to your hotel location and the scheduled transfer route. The main tour program begins at approximately 9:00 AM. As this is a full-day boat tour with several island stops, the exact return time may vary according to weather, maritime traffic, docking schedules and Istanbul road conditions.

Route

Princes Island Tour Istanbul; Route Map

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled tour departure time. The tour operates subject to suitable weather and maritime conditions. The order of the islands, docking points and time allocated at individual stops may occasionally be adjusted because of sea traffic, weather, pier availability or instructions from local authorities. If weather or maritime conditions prevent the tour from operating safely, guests will be informed about the available alternatives.

Extra services

Private Princes' Islands Tour

Arrange a private island experience for your family or group with a customized program, private guiding and greater flexibility during the day.

Private Boat Cruise

Upgrade to a private boat or yacht arrangement for an exclusive journey through the Princes' Islands based on your group size and preferred itinerary.

Private Transfer Service

Private transportation can be arranged from Istanbul Airport, Sabiha Gokcen Airport or accommodation outside the standard hotel pickup area upon request.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the Princes Island Tour Istanbul take?

The Princes Island Tour Istanbul is a full-day experience lasting approximately 9 hours.

The exact return time may vary depending on maritime conditions, docking schedules and Istanbul traffic.

What time does the Princes' Islands tour start?

The main tour program begins at approximately 9:00 AM.

Hotel pickup takes place earlier according to the location of your accommodation.

Which Princes' Islands do we visit?

The planned itinerary includes Kinaliada, Heybeliada and Buyukada, allowing you to experience three different islands during the same full-day tour.

Do we visit Buyukada?

Yes. Buyukada, the largest and best-known of the Princes' Islands, is one of the main stops on the tour.

You will have time to explore the waterfront and central areas of the island.

Do we visit Heybeliada?

Yes. The tour includes a stop on Heybeliada, where you can enjoy its waterfront, streets and relaxed island atmosphere.

Is Kinaliada included in the tour?

Yes. Kinaliada is included as one of the three planned island stops.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes. Hotel pickup is available from selected centrally located hotels within the scheduled transfer area.

Your exact pickup time will be confirmed after booking.

Is hotel drop-off included?

Yes. Scheduled hotel drop-off is included for eligible centrally located hotels following the tour.

Is lunch included in the Princes Island Tour Istanbul?

Yes. Lunch is included and normally served on board during the boat journey.

The standard meal generally includes cold appetizers or meze, grilled chicken, rice, salad and fruit.

Are drinks included with lunch?

No. Drinks are not included with the standard lunch and can be purchased separately.

Is there a professional tour guide?

Yes. A professional English-speaking guide accompanies the tour and provides information about the Princes' Islands and the day's itinerary.

How much free time do we have on the islands?

Free time is provided during the island visits, but the exact duration at each stop can vary according to the day's sailing schedule and docking conditions.

Your guide will provide the meeting time before each departure.

Are horse-drawn carriage tours available on the Princes' Islands?

No. Horse-drawn carriage tours are no longer part of the current island experience.

The tour focuses on sightseeing on foot during the island stops, while any optional local transportation is separate from the standard package.

Is transportation around Buyukada included?

Optional transportation on the island is not included unless it is specifically listed in your booking.

The central areas of Buyukada can be explored on foot during your free time.

Is the Princes Island Tour suitable for children?

Yes. Families with children can join the tour.

Parents should consider that this is a full-day excursion involving boat travel, walking and several embarkation and disembarkation points.

Is the tour suitable for elderly guests?

Guests who are comfortable with moderate walking and boarding a boat can generally enjoy the tour.

Travelers with mobility limitations should contact us before booking so the day's boarding and walking requirements can be discussed.

Can I bring a baby stroller?

A baby stroller can generally be brought on the boat, although moving it on and off the vessel at several island stops may require assistance.

Please inform us in advance if you are traveling with a large stroller.

What should I wear on a Princes' Islands tour?

Comfortable casual clothing and good walking shoes are recommended.

The boat can feel cooler and breezier than Istanbul, so bringing a light jacket or sweater is useful even during warmer seasons.

Does the tour operate when it rains?

Light rain does not necessarily prevent the tour from operating.

However, the itinerary may be changed, postponed or cancelled if strong winds, rough sea conditions or severe weather affect safe navigation.

Is the boat private for our group?

The standard tour is a shared full-day boat excursion.

Private boat and private Princes' Islands tour options can be arranged separately for couples, families and groups.

Why choose a three-island Princes' Islands tour?

Visiting three islands allows you to compare the different atmosphere and scenery of Kinaliada, Heybeliada and Buyukada rather than spending the entire day in one location.

The boat journey, guided island stops and onboard lunch are combined into a single organized day trip from Istanbul.

Is this tour a good day trip from Istanbul?

Yes. The tour is designed as a full-day escape from central Istanbul and combines cruising, island sightseeing, free time and lunch without requiring you to organize separate ferries between the islands.

Do I need to book the Princes Island Tour Istanbul in advance?

Advance booking is recommended, especially during spring and summer, weekends and holiday periods when island tours can be particularly popular.

Can I book a private Princes' Islands tour?

Yes. Private arrangements are available for couples, families and groups who prefer a more personalized itinerary and exclusive transportation.