Best time to visit Istanbul

Princes’ Islands in Istanbul

Riding in a horse-drawn carriage among 19th-century mansions encased with splendid greenery makes for a peaceful weekend

Best time: April–October

Princes’ Islands

The Princes' Islands is a perfect way to escape from the city's commotion; as there are no cars, only horse-drawn carriages and bikes may interfere with its pristine nature. The name denotes a group of 9 islands located in the Marmara Sea and dates back to the legend about troublesome princesses who were sent there for exile by Byzantine emperors. Tourists are allowed on only 4 of the 9 islands, including Heybeliada, Burgazada, Kinaliada, and the largest one, Buyukada. This island is famous for its seafood, numerous Victorian houses, lush vegetation, swimming beaches, and the Hagios Giorgios Church situated on the island's summit. One may get to this spot of tranquillity anytime between April and October by boat or ferry from Kabataş.

The best time to visit the islands would be April-May and September-October when it's still warm but not too crowded. Summer months might get too crowded on the islands, as well as the ferries taking people there. If you are not afraid of cold, you can even visit the islands on a cold gloomy winter day—less people and more tranquillity.

Practical info

What activities can tourists engage in while on the islands?

Tourists on the Princes' Islands can engage in a range of activities, from exploring the natural landscapes to enjoying a horse-drawn carriage ride around the 19th-century mansions. They can also take a hike and reach the peak to have a scenic view of Istanbul's panorama, swim at the beaches, and savour a variety of famous seafood dishes available on Buyukada island. Show more

What inspired the naming of the Princes' Islands?

The Princes' Islands were named after the legends of royal women who were sent into exile, although only a few of such exiles occurred. The history of the islands extends back to the Byzantine era, with its first settlers using the islands for hiding from Ottoman authorities and as places of exile. Nonetheless, the name has stuck and remains in use for the group of nine islands. Show more

Where does one depart from to access the Princes' Islands?

The Princes' Islands in Istanbul are accessible from Kabataş, situated in the European region of Istanbul and near the Dolmabahce Palace. Visitors can access the islands through a range of transportation options such as public ferry, private ferry, or a sea taxi depending on their preferences. Public ferry is the most affordable, whereas sea taxi is the fastest option. Show more

What are some popular seafood dishes available on Buyukada that visitors should take time to enjoy?

Seafood lovers visiting Buyukada island can relish various dishes, including stuffed mussels with rice baked in the oven and grilling marinated sea bass with olives and assorted herbs. Other seafood options include calamari, octopus, and mussels, usually served hot and available to enjoy with raki, a popular Turkish alcoholic drink. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin