What's included in the tour price?

The tour includes round-trip ferry passage from Istanbul, guided electric vehicle tour of two islands, lunch with seasonal dishes, and access to free time for swimming or independent exploration.

Can I swim during the tour?

Yes, free time is allocated for swimming if weather permits. Bring swimwear and a towel; sea conditions are best from June through September.

Which islands do we visit?

The tour typically visits Heybeliada and Büyükada, the two most popular and developed islands in the Princes' Islands archipelago.

Is the electric vehicle tour accessible for people with reduced mobility?

The vehicles accommodate most fitness levels and some routes are wheelchair-accessible. Contact the operator before booking to confirm specific accessibility needs.

How long is the ferry ride from Istanbul?

Ferry travel from Istanbul to the islands takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on the specific route and stops.

Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear (optional), a towel, and water. The islands have limited shade and sun exposure is significant during midday hours.

1 / 10

Princes Island Full-Day Tour From Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

Boat ToursBus & Minivan ToursLuxuryDay Trips & Excursions

Instant confirmationSecure checkoutNo hidden fees

About this activity

Escape Istanbul's crowds on a full-day guided retreat to the car-free Princes' Islands, featuring a scenic ferry crossing the Sea of Marmara, electric vehicle island tours, and included lunch. This peaceful archipelago combines pine-forested landscapes, Ottoman-era wooden villas, and seaside relaxation in a unique vehicle-free environment.

Escape the hustle and bustle of Istanbul and retreat to the serene Princes' Islands. This full-day guided tour offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and relaxation in a unique car-free paradise.

Your journey begins with a scenic ferry cruise across the Sea of Marmara. Snap photos of the Maiden’s Tower and Topkapi Palace from the water as we sail away. Upon arrival, step into a peaceful world filled with pine trees and Victorian-era wooden mansions. You will explore the island's charm comfortably aboard an eco-friendly electric vehicle.

After a delightful lunch featuring fresh seasonal dishes, enjoy plenty of free time. Wander the colorful streets, shop for souvenirs, taste the famous local gelato, or take a refreshing dip in the sea if the weather permits.

Highlights:
Scenic Cruise on the Sea of Marmara
Visit Two Popular Islands (Heybeliada/Büyükada)
Island Tour by Electric Vehicle
Delicious Lunch Included
Free Time for Swimming or Shopping

Highlights

✓Scenic ferry cruise across the Sea of Marmara with views of Maiden's Tower and Topkapi Palace
✓Explore two islands (typically Heybeliada and Büyükada) by eco-friendly electric vehicle
✓Walk car-free streets lined with Victorian wooden mansions and pine trees
✓Fresh seasonal lunch included mid-tour
✓Free time for swimming, local gelato tasting, or souvenir shopping

Insider tips

★Arrive early at the meeting point to secure a comfortable seat on the ferry and avoid crowds during peak season
★Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to swim; sea water is clearest in summer months
★The islands are traffic-free by law—wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring narrow streets and pine-shaded paths
★Try the famous Princes' Island ice cream (dondurma) at local shops; unique flavors reflect seasonal produce

Good to know

•8-hour tour includes ferry travel time; plan for approximately 4–5 hours on the islands themselves
•Lunch is provided; dietary restrictions should be noted at booking if possible
•Ferry schedule and island stops may vary seasonally; confirmation details sent before tour date
•Wear sun protection and bring water; shaded areas exist but sun exposure is significant during peak hours
•Electric vehicle tours accommodate most fitness levels; the vehicles are wheelchair-accessible on some routes (confirm at booking)

Who it's for

Families seeking a safe, car-free day away from urban IstanbulCouples looking for peaceful scenery and waterside relaxationPhotographers and history enthusiasts interested in Ottoman architecture and coastal viewsVisitors with limited mobility who prefer guided transport over extensive walking

Best time to visit

Late April through October offers the warmest weather and calmest seas, with June–September ideal for swimming. Morning departures are recommended to maximize daylight and avoid afternoon ferry crowding during summer.