The Princes Islands off the coast of Istanbul offer a serene respite from the bustling city. The Daily Princes Islands Tour provides an easy way to experience this tranquil escape. With a 90-minute boat ride, 100 minutes of free time on the largest island, and a tasty buffet lunch, this tour promises an enjoyable day. Priced competitively and with a flexible cancellation policy, it’s an accessible option for those looking to explore beyond Istanbul’s urban landscape. What makes this tour stand out, and how can visitors make the most of their time on the islands?

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Key Points

A day tour to the serene Princes Islands, departing from central Istanbul hotels and including a 90-minute boat ride to Büyükada, the largest island.
Provides 100 minutes of free time for exploring Büyükada, along with a buffet lunch and an English-speaking guide.
Offers convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off services, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Accessible by public transportation and suitable for both wheelchair users and families with strollers.
Offers competitive pricing and a flexible cancellation policy, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers.

Tour Overview and Details

Although the Princes Islands are located just a short boat journey from the bustling city of Istanbul, the daily tour provides visitors with a serene and scenic escape.

The 90-minute boat ride transports guests to Büyükada, the largest of the islands, where they’ll enjoy 100 minutes of free time to explore.

The tour includes a buffet lunch and a professional English-speaking guide who shares insights about the islands’ history and attractions.

With convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off, this tour offers an easy and affordable way to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of the Princes Islands.

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Inclusions and Services

The daily Princes Islands tour from Istanbul includes a range of convenient services and inclusions.

Travelers receive pick-up and drop-off from select central Istanbul hotels on the European side. The air-conditioned vehicle and professional English-speaking guide ensure a comfortable and informative journey.

Lunch is provided as a buffet with one soft drink, and all boat tickets, fees, and taxes are covered. Optional gratuities are available if desired.

With these comprehensive inclusions, guests can focus on enjoying the scenic 90-minute boat ride and 100 minutes of free time to explore the largest island, Büyükada.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Pick-up for the daily Princes Islands tour is available from a selection of centrally located hotels in Istanbul’s European side.

The tour has fixed departure times before the start, so guests should be ready at their hotel’s lobby during the designated pickup window.

Alternatively, guests can opt to head directly to a preferred meeting point. This offers flexibility for those who want to start the tour on their own schedule.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed. Infants must sit on laps during the boat journey to the islands.

Tour Accessibility and Additional Information

While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it does accommodate strollers. The tour operates year-round, excluding Ramadan, May 1, and January 1. Plus, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation.

Accessibility	Additional Information
Not wheelchair accessible	Stroller accessible
Near public transportation	Infants must sit on laps

Vegetarian options are available upon request. Travelers should note that the boat may become crowded during the 90-minute journey to Büyükada, the largest of the Princes Islands.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

Although the tour is priced from $39.17 per person, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing travelers with flexibility.

This budget-friendly option allows visitors to reserve their spot now and pay later, ensuring they can plan their trip without immediate financial commitment.

The tour company understands travelers’ needs and aims to make the booking process as smooth as possible.

With competitive pricing and lenient cancellation policies, the Daily Princes Islands Tour is an accessible and convenient way to explore the islands from Istanbul.

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Traveler Reviews

Travelers who’ve experienced the Daily Princes Islands Tour have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback, with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 26 reviews.

Reviewers consistently praise the helpfulness and responsiveness of the tour guide, as well as the satisfactory lunch experience.

While some have noted occasional boat overcrowding and minor discomfort during the trip, these seem to be isolated concerns.

The tour’s highlights include:

Scenic views of Istanbul from the ocean
Ample free time to explore the largest island, Büyükada
Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off service

Exploring Büyükada, the Largest Princes Island

After the scenic boat journey, visitors are treated to 100 minutes of free time on the largest of the Princes Islands, Büyükada. This car-free island invites exploration on foot or by horse-drawn carriage. Visitors can stroll the charming promenade, browse local shops, and indulge in traditional Turkish treats. For those seeking a more active adventure, hiking trails lead to panoramic viewpoints. The island’s highlights include:

Highlights	Duration
Promenade Stroll	30 minutes
Shop Local Boutiques	45 minutes
Hike to Viewpoint	60 minutes
Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride	20 minutes

With its scenic landscapes and leisurely pace, Büyükada offers a delightful respite from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul.

Getting the Most Out of Your Day on the Islands

To make the most of your day on the Princes Islands, visitors can prioritize the must-see sights and activities.

First, take in the stunning vistas of Istanbul from the ferry ride. Once on the largest island, Büyükada, explore the highlights:

Stroll the peaceful seaside promenade and take a horse-drawn carriage tour.
Visit the impressive Aya Yorgi Church and hike up to the top of the island for panoramic views.
Savor a traditional Turkish lunch at one of the local restaurants.

With just 100 minutes of free time, make the most of this tranquil day trip from the bustling city.

Ask Away

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour details, outside food and drinks are not mentioned as being allowed. The tour includes a buffet lunch with a soft drink, so bringing your own provisions may not be necessary or permitted.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available on the Boat and Island?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available on the boat and on the largest island, Büyükada. Customers can use the restrooms during the approximately 90-minute boat journey and the 100 minutes of free time on the island.

Can I Swim in the Ocean During the Free Time on the Island?

According to the tour details, visitors can’t swim in the ocean during the free time on the island. The tour focuses on sightseeing and exploring the island on foot, not water activities.

How Much Time Is Spent Actually on the Island Versus the Boat Ride?

The tour allots around 100 minutes of free time on the island, while the boat journey to and from the island takes approximately 90 minutes each way. So visitors spend more time sailing than exploring the island itself.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for This Tour?

This tour doesn’t seem to offer any discounts or special offers. The pricing is listed as starting from $39.17 per person, and there’s no mention of available deals or promotions. The focus appears to be on providing a quality experience.

Final Words

The Princes Islands Tour from Istanbul provides a peaceful escape from the city with a relaxing boat ride and 100 minutes to explore the largest island, Büyükada. With a buffet lunch, professional guide, and convenient hotel transfers, it’s an affordable and seamless way to experience the tranquil islands. The flexible cancellation policy and competitive pricing make this tour an excellent choice for those seeking a serene day trip from Istanbul.