Exploring the enchanting Princes’ Islands is a must-do activity for visitors to Istanbul. This full-day tour offers a chance to escape the bustling city and take in the peaceful charm of Büyükada, the largest island. With convenient hotel pickup, a scenic boat ride, and guided electric car exploration, it’s an excellent way to experience the islands’ elegant mansions and serene ambiance. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day or an opportunity to uncover the area’s rich history, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

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Key Points

A full-day boat tour to the Princes’ Islands, including a visit to the largest island, Büyükada, with guided exploration of its charming mansions via electric car.
Lunch is included, either served on the boat in summer or at an island restaurant in winter.
The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned bus, and an onboard guide providing insights throughout the journey.
The tour offers the opportunity to explore the islands’ quaint streets, local shops, and interact with wildlife by feeding seagulls with Turkish simit bread.
The tour is priced at €31.50 per person, with a duration of 8 hours and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Princes Island Full Day Tour provides a comprehensive sightseeing experience, taking visitors on a boat trip to the serene Princes’ Islands located off the coast of Istanbul.

Priced at €31.50 per person, the tour offers exceptional value, with a duration of 8 hours and a flexible cancellation policy allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers can look forward to exploring the islands’ charming mansions via electric car, as well as visiting iconic Istanbul landmarks like Topkapı Palace and Maiden’s Tower.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a guide, entrance fees, and a delicious lunch.

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Itinerary Highlights

Departing from the hotel in an air-conditioned bus, the tour takes travelers on a boat trip to the Princes’ Islands, including the largest island, Büyükada.

Sightseeing includes Istanbul landmarks like Topkapı Palace and Maiden’s Tower.

Once on Büyükada, guests explore the island’s mansions via electric car.

Lunch is served either on the boat in summer or at an island restaurant in winter.

Visitors have free time to browse local shops and take in the picturesque surroundings.

The tour provides a well-rounded experience, allowing travelers to discover the Princes’ Islands’ history, culture, and natural beauty.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.

A seamless start and end to the day with hotel pickup and drop-off included in the tour.

Travelers are transported by air-conditioned bus, allowing for comfortable travel.

The boat trip to the Princes’ Islands, including the largest island, Büyükada, is included, as are the entrance fees.

An onboard tour guide provides insights throughout the journey.

Lunch is served, either on the boat in summer or at an island restaurant in winter, catering to the seasonal differences.

With these comprehensive inclusions, the tour offers an exceptional value for money.

Customer Reviews

Based on the reviews, customers appear to have a largely positive experience with the Princes Island Full Day Tour.

With an overall rating of 4.1/5, most customers praise the tour’s value, transportation, and knowledgeable guide.

Giulia from Italy enjoyed the beautiful views, noting the tour is better in summer.

Similarly, Sheikh from Turkey highlighted the excellent service and helpful guide.

Zeeshan Abbas from Canada enthusiastically recommended the great experience.

While the guide rating is slightly lower at 3.8/5, the majority of customers seem satisfied with the tour’s quality and offerings.

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Island Exploration

After departing from the hotel, guests embark on a boat trip to the Princes’ Islands, the largest of which is Büyükada.

Once there, they’ll explore the island’s charming mansions and historic sites via a guided electric car tour.

Explore Büyükada’s charming mansions and historic sites via a guided electric car tour.

Travelers can wander the quaint streets, browse local shops, and soak in the picturesque seaside atmosphere.

During the warmer months, lunch is served right on the boat, while in winter, guests dine at an island restaurant.

Throughout the day, there are chances to interact with the local wildlife, like feeding seagulls the iconic Turkish simit bread.

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Bosphorus Cruise

While traversing the Princes’ Islands, guests also have the opportunity to cruise along the Bosphorus and admire Istanbul’s stunning architectural landmarks.

The Bosphorus, a picturesque strait that separates Europe and Asia, offers breathtaking views of palaces, mosques, and bridges that define the city’s skyline.

Guests can enjoy this scenic cruise as part of the tour, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant waterway.

With the chance to feed seagulls and capture the perfect photo, the Bosphorus cruise is a highlight of the Princes’ Islands tour, providing a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s rich history and natural beauty.

Feeding the Seagulls

As part of the Princes’ Islands tour, visitors have the opportunity to interact with the local seagulls.

Throughout the boat ride, guests can engage with these graceful birds in several ways:

Purchasing simit (sesame bread rings) from vendors on the boat and feeding the seagulls as they swoop in for a tasty treat.
Observing the seagulls soar effortlessly above the boat, catching a glimpse of their elegant movements.
Capturing photos of the seagulls in their natural habitat, adding a unique touch to vacation memories.
Listening to the soothing cries of the seagulls as they glide along the Bosphorus.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no formal dress code for this tour. Comfortable, casual clothing and walking shoes are recommended to explore the islands comfortably. Layers may be needed if the weather is cooler during the boat ride.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

There are no major restrictions on photography during the tour. Guests can freely take photos throughout the day, capturing the island’s scenic views, historic sites, and local culture. However, visitors should be mindful of any specific restrictions at certain locations.

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

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat, which can be a budget-friendly option. However, a delicious lunch is included in the tour price, so it’s convenient to enjoy the provided meal.

Is There Wi-Fi Available on the Bus and Boat?

The tour doesn’t provide Wi-Fi on the bus or boat. However, many travelers bring their own portable hotspots or rely on their mobile data to stay connected during the tour. It’s best to prepare for an offline experience.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

This tour offers a flexible itinerary that can be customized to suit your preferences. Speak with the guide to adjust the sightseeing stops or activity duration to match your interests and budget within the overall tour schedule.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour to Princes’ Islands offers an enchanting escape from the hustle of Istanbul. Guests can look forward to a scenic boat trip, electric car exploration of charming mansions, and a delicious lunch. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, comfortable transportation, and inclusive pricing, it’s an affordable and unforgettable way to experience the serene beauty of these picturesque islands.