Istanbul Princess Island Tour
From Istanbul: Full-Day Princes Island Guided Tour w/ Lunch 2
From Istanbul: Full-Day Princes Island Guided Tour w/ Lunch 3
From Istanbul: Full-Day Princes Island Guided Tour w/ Lunch 4
From Istanbul: Full-Day Princes Island Guided Tour w/ Lunch 5
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From Istanbul: Full-Day Princes Island Guided Tour w/ Lunch

(3)
Istanbul, Turkey
Day Trips & ExcursionsHorseback RidingNature Tours
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About this activity

Escape Istanbul's urban intensity with a full-day guided excursion to the Princes' Islands, a car-free archipelago in the Sea of Marmara known for its Ottoman mansions, lush gardens, and traffic-free charm. Explore Büyükada (the largest island) by traditional phaeton carriage and enjoy fresh seafood lunch at a waterfront restaurant.

There is no absolutely no better way to escape the bustle of Istanbul for a day than to go on a visit to the idyllic Princes’ Islands. Enjoy the cool breezes and the charming sights along the way to Büyükada, which is the largest Island in the chain. These islands being famous for their mild climates, lush vegetation, and ornate Ottoman Houses, are all unspoiled by traffic. Instead of cars there are carriages, called phaetons, which take the passengers and are used to take the tour of the island and and make visitors see its beautiful scenery studded with elegant mansions draped with purple bougainvillea, reminiscent of a more leisured and graceful era. You will enjoy your lunch at the best of one of the many excellent fresh fish restaurants that line in the waterfront, gazing across the Asian shore of Istanbul.

Highlights

  • ✓Car-free island experience with iconic phaeton (horse-drawn) carriage rides
  • ✓Ornate Ottoman-era mansions framed by purple bougainvillea and Mediterranean vegetation
  • ✓Fresh fish lunch at a waterfront restaurant overlooking the Asian shore
  • ✓Cool sea breezes and peaceful atmosphere away from Istanbul's congestion
  • ✓Scenic coastal views and leisurely pace through unspoiled island streets

Insider tips

  • ★Arrive early at the ferry departure point to secure comfortable seating and avoid crowds during peak season
  • ★Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets between phaeton stops
  • ★Bring sunscreen and a hat—the island offers limited shade and sun exposure is intense on the water crossing
  • ★Request a table by the window at lunch to maximize views of the Asian coastline while dining

Good to know

  • •Tour duration is 7 hours including ferry transit and lunch; arrive at least 30 minutes before departure
  • •Lunch is included; confirm dietary restrictions or fresh fish availability when booking
  • •Ferry crossing takes approximately 1 hour each way; seasickness medication recommended if prone
  • •No cars allowed on the islands; all ground transport uses phaetons or walking
  • •Casual but neat dress recommended; modest clothing respectful for residential areas

Who it's for

Couples seeking a romantic, traffic-free day escapeHistory and architecture enthusiasts interested in Ottoman heritageNature lovers wanting quiet, car-free environmentsPhotographers drawn to coastal scenery and ornate heritage buildings

Best time to visit

Visit in late spring (May–June) or early autumn (September–October) for mild temperatures and manageable crowds. Midday heat can be intense; early morning or late afternoon departures offer more comfortable conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€55
per person