Princes' Islands
"The Princes' Islands are an archipelago of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara, accessible by ferry from Istanbul. The four largest (Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, Kınalıada) are car-free, relying on bicycles, electric vehicles, and walking. They offer a tranquil escape with Victorian mansions, pine forests, swimming spots, and fish restaurants. Büyükada is the largest and most visited."
Logistics
Moderate
Vibe
Tranquil, Nostalgic, Car-free
Duration
Full day (6-8 hours)
Best For
Day trips
The Backstory
The islands served as a place of exile for Byzantine royalty—hence 'Princes' Islands.' During the Ottoman era, they became home to Greek, Armenian, and Jewish communities seeking escape from the city. In the 19th-20th centuries, wealthy Istanbulites built wooden mansions as summer retreats. Leon Trotsky lived in exile on Büyükada from 1929-1933, writing 'The History of the Russian Revolution' there. After the 1950s, the islands declined as wealthy families left, but they've become popular day-trip destinations.
Local Secret
"Take the ferry to Büyükada (largest island) early in the day—ferries get packed on summer weekends. Rent a bike immediately upon arrival to explore before crowds arrive. Avoid the touristy horse carriages (phaeton)—animal welfare is questionable. Swim at Yörükali Beach or Halik Koyu. Have lunch at waterfront fish restaurants on the backside of the island, not the ferry dock area."