Princes' Islands — Istanbul's Escape
The Adalar (Princes' Islands) are a group of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara, 12–20 km south of Istanbul. In the Ottoman Empire, they served as places of exile for princes and monks — today, they are Istanbul's most popular weekend getaway: car-free, green, quiet, and with the charm of a forgotten Belle Époque.
Büyükada (Big Island)
The largest and most popular Princes' Island: Victorian wooden villas, carriage rides (replaced by electric vehicles since 2020), pine forests, and a Greek Orthodox monastery (Aya Yorgi) on the highest point. The seafront is lined with fish restaurants and cafés.
- Bicycle: The best way to explore Büyükada. Rent bikes at the harbor (from €5/day). The island circuit (approx. 12 km) leads through pine forests, past abandoned villas, and to secluded bathing bays.
- Aya Yorgi: The Greek Orthodox monastery on the hill (203 m). 20-minute ascent, rewarded with a panoramic view over the Sea of Marmara and the Istanbul coast. Pilgrims tie threads to the fence and make a wish.
- Beaches: Yörük Ali Beach and Halik Koyu on the back of the island — quiet and with clean water.
Heybeliada
The second-largest island and the quieter alternative to Büyükada: fewer tourists, more pine forests, the historic Greek Orthodox seminary (Halki) on the hill (closed since 1971, politically controversial). Perfect for hiking and swimming.
Getting There
Ferries from Kabataş (European side, 1.5h) or Kadıköy/Bostancı (Asian side, 45–60 min.). Price with Istanbulkart: approx. €1. In summer: ferries every 30–60 minutes. The ride itself — past Istanbul's skyline, the Maiden's Tower, and the other islands — is already an experience.
💡 Tipp
Avoid the Princes' Islands on weekends in the summer — the ferries are overcrowded and the islands are bursting at the seams. During the week (Tue–Thu), it's wonderfully quiet. Half a day is enough for Büyükada. Take the early ferry (9 am) and return in the afternoon.