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A day in one of the Princes’ Islands of Istanbul is an escape from city chaos. There, you can embrace the greenery and have the best leisure time during your time. So, let’s start with learning what these islands are, how many are there, and what to do in each.
The Princes’ Islands (Adalar) are an archipelago of nine islands located in the Sea of Marmara, just off the Asian coast of Istanbul. They are a group of islands that lie 20 km southeast of the Bosphorus in the Sea of Marmara. There are nine islands in total, of which four are inhabited. Adalar is also a district of Istanbul and has a population of around 17,000.
Princes’ Islands are a popular escape destination for tourists, offering a serene environment and a break from the city’s bustling life. The islands are accessible by ferry services that depart from Kabataş on the European side, with the voyage taking about 25 minutes by fast ferry and 40 minutes by regular ferry.The Princes’ Islands have a rich history and have evolved from a place of exile during the Byzantine era to a popular tourist destination. The islands are also known for their natural beauty, pure air, and peaceful atmosphere.
Büyükada is the largest island among other islands with its 5.4 km² area. Also, it is the main island of Princes’ Islands. For that reason, it is the most popular one. The population of Büyükada is 8.591.
With a history dating back to its Ancient Greek period, the island is known for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals. It is accessible by ferry from Kadıköy and Kabataş, with the journey taking about 20 minutes and 1 hour and 20 minutes. The island offers various accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and guesthouses. Büyükada’s rich history, coupled with its natural charm, makes it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Heybeliada is the second largest island with a 2.34 km² area and 4.424 population. It is the greenest of the inhabited Princes’ Islands. Given that, it is a great alternative to Büyükada. Heybeliada has a rich history and is known for its cultural landmarks and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for tourists. Some of the main attractions on the island include the Heybeliada Naval High School, Bet Yaakov Synagogue, Aya Triada Monastery, and Heybeliada Sanatorium.The island is also home to four hills, with the highest reaching almost 140 meters.
Heybeliada is accessible by ferry from Istanbul, with the journey taking about an hour from Kabataş. Visitors can explore the island’s rich history, enjoy its natural beauty, and experience the serene atmosphere that makes it a perfect getaway from the bustling city life.
Covering an area of 1.4 km² area, Burgazada is the third largest Princes’ Island. Its population is around 1464. The island is known for its historical landmarks and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for visitors. Some of the main attractions on the island include the impressive architecture of the Aya Yani Church, which has a rich and longstanding history, and the Bayrak Tepe, a hill rising 176 meters above the island’s southern coast. Bayrak Tepe is known for offering a beautiful walking route and a stunning view of the surroundings.
Additionally, Burgazada is home to the Burgazada Sanatorium, established in 1928 and considered one of Turkey’s oldest sanatoriums, as well as Turkey’s first private zoo. The island’s rich history, coupled with its natural charm, makes it an ideal escape from the city, offering a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to explore and enjoy.
Kınalıada is the closest Princes’ Island to Istanbul. It is the fourth largest island with 1.3 km² and the second most densely populated Princes’ Island population of around 2.200. It is the smallest of the four major islands open to the public and is known for its historical landmarks and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for visitors. Some of the main attractions on the island include the Sikaryan Twin Houses, two three-story wooden mansions that are among the most elegant and delicate structures on the island. The island is accessible by ferry from Istanbul, with the journey taking about an hour from Kabataş.
Covering an area of 0.157 km², it is one of the smallest Princes’ Islands. The island has strict building regulations to protect the nature and environment of the Sedef Ada. For this reason, there is no settlement in Sedef Ada. The island is home to the historic Sedef Lighthouse, which was built in 1850 and is one of the oldest lighthouses in Turkey. Additionally, Sedef Adası is known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, attracting visitors who enjoy water sports and other beach activities.
Yassıada, also known as Demokrasi ve Özgürlükler Adası (Democracy and Freedom Island), is one of the Princes’ Islands located in the Sea of Marmara near Istanbul. Yassıada is a great spot for amateur divers and scuba diving. It covers an area of 0.183 km2. The island has a rich history and is known for its cultural landmarks and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for visitors. There is 27 May Museum, a hotel, a convention center, and a mosque on the island.
Sivriada, also known as Hayırsızada, is one of the Princes’ Islands located in the Sea of Marmara near Istanbul. It is another uninhabited Princes’ Island. There are some historical findings such as a Byzantine monastery from the 9th century and remains of a Roman settlement in the Island. It covers an area of 0.0926 km².
With an area of 0.0311 km², Tavşan Ada is the smallest island among other Princes’ Islands. It is not inhabited. The ruins of a 9th-century monastery can be found on the island.
Kaşıkada, also known as Pita in Greek, is a small island near Heybeliada in the Sea of Marmara, Istanbul. Its name, which means “Spoon Island” in Turkish, is derived from its resemblance to a spoon. The island is known for its picturesque setting and is a part of the Princes’ Islands archipelago. It is a relatively lesser-known destination compared to other islands. It is the second smallest Princes’ Island with an area of 0.0572 km² and is uninhabited.
There are sea buses operated by IDO and regular ferries of Şehir Hatları, public transportation. You can use Kabataş, Eminönü, Beşiktaş, Bostancı, Kadıköy, and Maltape ports to reach Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada.
Schedules of both services are different so it’s better to check a day before for planning. If you are visiting the Princes’ Islands with a tour, let’s move to the next section where you find what can you do on these Islands.
You get back to Istanbul with the ferries. Don’t forget to check out the time schedules of IDO or Şehir Hatları to plan your return.
Princes’ Islands are your escape from the noise of the city. Motorized cars are banned there and only cars of the public services such as police or firefighters are allowed. For this reason, going to one of these islands will give you the break you have wished for so long.
Here are all the activities you can do in Princes’ Islands:
Biking: One of the most popular activities on the islands is cycling. You can rent a bike and explore the scenic routes at your own pace.
Swimming: Many of the Princes’ Islands have beautiful beaches where you can swim in the clear waters of the Sea of Marmara.
Sunbathing: You can enjoy your leisure time on the beaches by sunbathing while reading a book or listening to music.
Picnicking: Nothing is better than having a picnic if there is greenery everywhere. Pack your stuff and enjoy them in one of the parks or by the seaside.
Visiting Monasteries and Churches: Some of the islands have historic monasteries and churches. These sites offer a glimpse into the islands’ rich history.
Shopping: Explore the streets of the islands and visit local shops for handicrafts and souvenirs.
Just relaxing: The islands are known for their tranquility, making them an excellent place for relaxing. You can simply enjoy the slower pace of life and the natural beauty.
Each island has its own wonders for you to explore. Let’s see how can you spend a day in these islands.
Visit Aya Yorgi Church & Yücetepe: Greek Orthodox Aya Yorgi Church is on the top of Yücetepe, which is 203 meters high. There, you can view the stunning scene of the Sea of Marmara and Istanbul’s Asian side.
Wooden mansions: Büyükada is known for its well-preserved Victorian-era mansions. You can find one of the most beautiful ones at Çankaya Street.
Visit Merkez Ezcanesi: An old pharmacy dating back to 1870 is one of the main attractions.
See Trotsky House: The Russian revolutionary leader Leon Trotsky lived in exile on the island from 1929 to 1933.
Visit Greek Orthodox Orphanage: Built in 1898, Prinkipo is the largest wooden structure in Europe and the second largest in the world.
Visit Hamidiye Mosque: Built at the end of the 19th century, Hamidiye Mosque features Turkish elements combined with neo-classical and empire-style ornaments.
Go to The Adalar Müzesi: A museum to show the history of the Princes’ Islands to its visitors.
Go to Beaches: The many public beaches as well as beach clubs at Büyükada.
Relax in Nature: Natural parks and greenery are everywhere in Büyükada. Just enjoy your leisure time and embrace the nature.
Biking: Biking in the streets while exploring the island and feeling the sea breeze will make you feel so good.
Visit Aya Triada Monastery: Located between two hills, Aya Triada served as a convent, a girls’ school, an orphanage, and a college.
Go to Churches: There are some churches you should visit such as the Greek Orthodox Church of Aya Nikola and the Panagia Kamariotissa Church at Heybeliada.
Visit Theological School of Halki: Another popular attraction is the Halki Institute of Orthodox Theology built in the 11th century.
Enjoy Nature: Heybeliada is packed with green spots to enjoy the beauty of nature. It is the greenest island compared to other Princes’ Islands.
Wooden residences: You can find many 19th-century villas in the streets.
Enjoy the Beaches: Heybeliada has wonderful beaches surrounded by forests. Blue and green together is the best combination for tranquility.
Visit Hüseyin Rahmi Gürpınar Museum: A museum dedicated to famous Turkish novelist Hüseyin Rahmi Gürpınar.
Biking: Rent a bicycle and go sightseeing by bike.
Visit Aya Yani Greek Orthodox Church: Though it was built in 842, it is still the most beautiful building of the Burgazada.
Visit Sait Faik Abasıyanık Museum: A museum dedicated to famous Turkish writer Sait Faik Abasıyanık.
Rent a bike: Explore the island on the saddle!
Go for a swim: There are many public beaches for you to enjoy and sunbathe comfortably.
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Visit Hristo Monastery: A monastery that served exiled Byzantine Emperors during the 11th century.
Go to Çınarlıtepe: Hike to the highest point of the island which is 115 meters high.
Surp Krikor Lusarovic Armenian Church: Erected in 1857, it is the first and only Armenian Gregorian church in the Adalar.
Hop on a bike: Explore every corner of the island on your bike and find the best spot to relax.
Swim and sunbathe: Enjoy the Marmara Sea while having your best time at public beaches.
Yes, there are exclusive hotels for you to stay there. You can also look for Airbnb options if you are trying to budget. Spending a night or two at one of these islands will refresh your mind for being far away from the city.
The main points of going to the Princes’ Islands are enjoying the greenery, biking around, and swimming. For this reason, visiting these islands during spring and summer is the best. However, if you want to experience tranquility and unique scenery, you can still visit the Princes’ Islands during colder seasons.
If you are going during spring or summer, visit the islands during the weekdays as many locals see the Princes’ Islands as a weekend destination to escape the city. During colder seasons, you can go any day you want as it’s going to be quiet anyway.
