Prince Islands: A Unique Experience in Istanbul
Istanbul boasts many tourist attractions, and the Princes’ Islands are among them. These beautiful islands require a full day to explore. If you’re curious about what awaits you on the Princes’ Islands in Istanbul, or if you’re unsure whether to visit, this post will help you decide.
Princes’ Islands in Istanbul
Located in the Marmara Sea, near Istanbul, there are nine small and pristine islands known as the Princes’ Islands. During the Byzantine period, these islands served as the place of exile for princes, but today they have become a popular tourist and recreational destination for both Istanbul residents and visitors seeking a break from the city’s hustle and bustle. Out of the nine islands, only four—Buyukada, Burgazada, Heybeliada, and Kinaliada—are open to the public. Buyukada is the largest and most popular island in this group. The name “Princes” was chosen due to the islands’ history as a place of exile for princes.
- Features of the Princes’ Islands in Istanbul
The Princes’ Islands offer a unique sense of peace and purity. Motorized vehicles are not allowed, making the islands free from noise and pollution. The only sounds you’ll hear are those of bicycles and horse hooves. To get around the islands, you’ll need to use a bicycle or a horse-drawn carriage. The Princes’ Islands are not only quiet and secluded; they also feature narrow streets, pine trees, and Victorian-era wooden cottages. The islands’ recreational areas are lush and cool, thanks to the cypress and palm trees. The forests, set against the backdrop of the Marmara Sea, create a stunning landscape. You’ll also find beautiful and historic houses that once served as residences for famous people.
- How to Get to the Princes’ Islands in Istanbul
To visit the Princes’ Islands, you’ll need to take a boat. Various boats are available, and you can choose one that suits your preferences. Speedboats are faster and are recommended if you want to maximize your time on the island. On weekends, especially when the weather is nice, boats can get crowded, and you may have to wait in long lines. It’s best to go early. The boat ride takes about two hours, and along the way, seagulls may follow and even take food from you. Once you reach the islands, you’ll find many restaurants and cafes where you can relax and unwind.
- An Overview of the Princes’ Islands in Istanbul
In the Sea of Marmara, there are nine islands collectively known as the Princes’ Islands. Of these, only four are open to the public, as the other five are privately owned. The four islands accessible to visitors are Buyukada, Burgazada, Heybeliada, and Kinaliada. The five private islands are Kasik Island, Tavsan Island, Yassiada, Sivriada, and Sedef Island. Let’s take a closer look at the four islands you can visit.
- Heybeliada Island
Heybeliada is the second-largest island in the Princes’ Islands group and is located in the Adalar district. This ancient island is home to several historical landmarks, such as the historic naval school, an old church built before the conquest of Constantinople, and the grave of Edward Barton, the second British ambassador, who came to this island to escape the plague. Heybeliada has a cooler climate, with a population of around 3,000 in winter, which doubles in summer.
- Buyukada Island
Buyukada is the largest and most popular island among the nine Princes’ Islands in Istanbul. This beautiful and well-loved island is located near Istanbul and can be considered the green jewel of the Sea of Marmara. No cars, except for police and municipal vehicles, are allowed on the island, making it smoke-free and pollution-free. The island has many attractions that are worth exploring if you can dedicate a day to it.
The Adalar Museum, a contemporary urban museum, showcases the history and events of the island through text, photos, and videos. The historic Monastery of St. George Koudounas, which includes six churches and three places of worship, is located at the highest point on the island. This monastery was built at the beginning of the 20th century and has been renovated since. Yucetepe is one of the beautiful hills on this island.
- Burgazada Island
Located to the west of Heybeliada, Burgazada is the third most visited island among the Princes’ Islands in Istanbul. Burgazada boasts beautiful landscapes and an unparalleled sense of peace. The island was once inhabited by Greeks, who later migrated to Istanbul. Burgazada is also a significant site in Turkish literature, with the home of one of Turkey’s great writers now transformed into a museum. Sait Faik, a renowned author who lived on this island, often mentioned its tranquility in his works. Bayrak Hill, one of the island’s green and scenic areas, offers stunning views of Burgazada. A walk along the island’s beach can relax you and rejuvenate your spirit.
- Kinaliada Island
Known as “Red Land” due to its copper and iron mines and reddish soil, Kinaliada is another beautiful island in the Princes’ Islands group. The island features various shopping centers and markets, which are appealing to those interested in shopping. For history enthusiasts, an ancient monastery from the Roman Empire can be explored. The beaches of this island are also ideal for sunbathing. Kinaliada is one of the Princes’ Islands in Istanbul.
- Tour to Princes’ Islands in Istanbul
To enjoy a good trip, managing your travel expenses is crucial. Tours offer a cost-effective way to travel and can significantly reduce your travel costs. If you’re visiting Istanbul, don’t miss the chance to explore the Princes’ Islands. These islands, with their historical sites and peaceful, green nature, are extremely popular. As a result, the Princes’ Islands tour is one of the most popular and best-selling tours. On the way to the islands, you can enjoy live music, dancing, and a variety of drinks on the boats prepared for this purpose.
- Restaurants on the Princes’ Islands in Istanbul
The Princes’ Islands in Istanbul are home to a variety of restaurants that cater to diverse tastes. These restaurants offer seafood, as well as Turkish, Greek, French, and Asian dishes, all accompanied by beautiful views of the islands. Some of the famous and popular restaurants on the Princes’ Islands include:
- Nisi Buyukada Restaurant: Serving Turkish and Greek cuisine, this restaurant offers a pleasant atmosphere and excellent service.
- Secret Garden Restaurant: Specializing in seafood and Mediterranean cuisine, this restaurant offers high-quality dishes at reasonable prices and features a zoo and various museums.
- Palia Terrace Fish Restaurant: This restaurant offers Turkish and seafood dishes with a wide and flavorful menu and has a terrace with a great view.
- Balıkçı Süleyman Buyukada: Known for its fresh and creative seafood and Turkish dishes, this restaurant has a friendly atmosphere and polite staff.
- Sarmaşık: This restaurant serves simple and delicious Turkish food in a calm and joyful setting.
- Hotels on the Princes’ Islands in Istanbul
- The Princes’ Islands in Istanbul have stylish and comfortable hotels that offer travelers a pleasant stay. These hotels vary in star ratings and prices and feature different architectural and decorative styles. Some of the popular hotels on the Princes’ Islands include:
- Ada Palace Boutique Hotel: A 3-star hotel located on Buyukada Island, offering a romantic and beautiful atmosphere. The rooms are equipped with stylish design and furniture.
- Senar Konak Boutique Hotel: Located on Buyukada Island, this hotel provides a pleasant atmosphere and excellent services. The rooms are designed with simplicity and elegance.
- Sergüzeşt Hotel: Situated on Buyukada Island, this hotel has a friendly and cheerful atmosphere. The rooms are of high quality and well-ventilated.
- Mimoza Hotel Buyukada: Located on Buyukada Island, this hotel offers a comfortable and delightful environment. It features a restaurant, garden, terrace, bar, conference hall, breakfast service, babysitting services, laundry, 24-hour reception, free parking, and free Wi-Fi.
- Anastasia Meziki Boutique Hotel: This hotel, located on Heybeliada Island, provides a beautiful and peaceful atmosphere. It includes a restaurant, garden, terrace, bar, breakfast service, babysitting service, laundry, 24-hour reception, free parking, and free Wi-Fi.
- Summary of the Princes’ Islands in Istanbul
The Princes’ Islands, or Adalar, are a group of nine small islands in the Sea of Marmara, known as a popular tourist destination. These islands are 20 kilometers from Istanbul and can be reached by boat. Of the nine islands, only four are inhabited, with the largest being Buyukada and Heybeliada. These islands have a rich history and culture, having served as residences and places of entertainment for many famous people and officials since the Byzantine era.
The islands feature beautiful natural landscapes, gardens, churches, monasteries, museums, and historical villas. Due to the absence of car traffic, the Princes’ Islands are very quiet and peaceful, with bicycles and public electric cars being the only means of transport. Many tourists visit these islands during the warmer seasons to enjoy the beaches, restaurants, hotels, and recreational activities.
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