A Day Trip to Princes’ Islands – Best Things to Do, How to Get There, and Practical Tips

Begin with an early ferry from Kadıköy to Büyükada; rent bikes at the dock. That right move keeps you ahead of crowds while you ride panoramic coastlines, quiet inland lanes, through pine groves, around uninhabited coves where calm, peaceful views unfold. From your home base in Istanbul, the plan is cheap, always going at your own pace.

For logistics, board a ferry to Büyükada; choose a line that matches your schedule. Morning departures from Kadıköy or Bostancı take about 15–25 minutes; later trips through the Marmara Sea can stretch to 40 minutes. If you haven’t time for a full loop, skip the circuit; stay near the quay. Once ashore, circle the main settlement on foot, using comfortable shoes, visit a beach or a secluded bay.

Walk along the harbour, greek influence visible; visit orthodox chapels; sample delicacies such as grilled fish, meze; asian-inspired soups offer variety; seafood with lemon, herbs remains a staple. On Büyükada, you can rent a bicycle or a tandem–breeze through pine groves; each stop delivers calm scenery.

To dodge crowds, schedule a midweek escape; pack water, wear shoes with cushioning, carry a light jacket for evenings. Check the ferry line schedule before leaving; a return by sunset fits most plans. If a beach option calls, choose a uninhabited cove away from the quay; some spots are cheap, others require a small fee. Delicacies line the harbor–greek pastries, asian-inspired bowls, fresh grilled fare; this getaway wont disappoint the crowds.

Getting There: Ferry Routes from Kadıköy, Bostancı, and Eminönü to Burgazada

Recommendation: Kadıköy departures to Burgazada start around 07:00; journey about 1h20m; ferries call at several stops along marmara coast; youll enjoy a stunning blue panorama, mediterranean atmosphere, great for exploring.

From Bostancı port, travel time near 1h15m; cadence mirrors Kadıköy, winter slows schedule to roughly 90–120 minutes; first boats around 07:30, last around 18:30; usually stops at one or two islands before Burgazada; in busy seasons, boats depart every 40–60 minutes; then cadence shifts in winter.

From Eminönü, plan longer passage; route includes central marmara stops; typical duration 1h50m–2h30m; morning departures around 08:00, last boats near 17:30; busy during weekends due to tourists.

Onboard notes: bicycle transport is used on most ferries; youll find portable transportation options; to skip queues, pick early slots; keep a light bag; port area features blue boats, waiting spots, street music; youll notice a charming, sleepy atmosphere near Burgazada port; after arrival, explore sedef street, visit the mosque, stroll along a cute street; during winter, island life shows an impressive calm, home vibe for locals.

Route snapshots

Kadıköy option: first departure 07:00; duration 1h20m; cadence 40–60 minutes in peak season; winter cadence 90–120 minutes.

Bostancı option: first departure 07:30; duration 1h15m; cadence similar; winter cadence 90–120 minutes.

Eminönü option: first departure around 08:00; duration 1h50m–2h30m; slower during winter.

Arrival notes

On Burgazada pier, a quick stroll leads to sedef street, a few cute cafés; popular island tour loops include hiking paths with scenic views; winter brings a peaceful atmosphere, attractive for exploring with family or friends; tourists typically rest at shore cafes before returning by ferry, which keeps a busy but cozy vibe; again Burgazada reveals a slower pace, a welcome contrast to the metropolis.

Optimal Day Itinerary: Time Allocation for Burgazada Highlights

Morning segment: Harbour to Aya Yorgi

Begin with the 09:00 ferry from karikoy. Arrival around 10:15. Rent a bike at the quay for a leisurely loop along the waterfront toward the hill. Aya Yorgi Church sits atop a wooded rise; the ascent takes 25–35 minutes. Allocate 15 minutes at the summit for views over the island. Descend to the pine grove. Continue along the coast to the parks. Historic wooden buildings line the harbor area, located in the first streets near the quay.

Afternoon segment: Parks, views, and return

11:00–12:30: explore the historical area around the harbor. The area features wooden houses, small mosques, quiet streets. 13:00–14:00: lunch at a seaside cafe. Prices around 150–250 TL money per person. 14:00–15:30: stroll along the coast. Shaded lanes. Parks line the route. Views open toward the sea. 15:30–16:30: left path offers a quieter bay; crowds may appear; otherwise switch to a western cove. 16:30–17:00: return to harbor; post cards, gifts; last-minute photos. 17:00 ferry back; istanbul arrival around 18:15 depending on seas. Compared with marmaris, Burgazada keeps crowds lower. Various viewpoints along the coast provide perspectives on the historic houses. For trips from istanbul hubs, Burgazada serves as a compact preview; büyükada nearby shows a different scale of architecture.

Must-See Sights on Burgazada: Harbor, Old Village, and Hilltop Views

First, begin at the harbor to set the pace. youll watch small boats return from morning trips, hulls gleaming, gulls circling, crates moved by cart. Cafés nearby offer good coffee, seating for solo travelers, or groups. Renting a bike or scooter lets you cover the waterfront quickly, leave time for strolls along greenery near the quay. The scene feels serene in winter; crowds thin, festivals bring a gentle energy, tavşan signs appear as playful decor.

1. Harbor

   • Ferry routes from karikoy, bostancı reach Burgazada’s harbor; hop off near the red pier. Walk to cafés offering good coffee.
   • Quay façades show history expressed in building textures; signage reveals local history, craft.
   • Greenery lines the water path; serene mood grows as dusk approaches.

2. Old Village

   • First stroll through narrow lanes between whitewashed building façades; history speaks through carved door frames, tiled courtyards.
   • A piegsa-quischotte cafe sits on a corner; youll find pastries paired with strong coffee.
   • tavşan motifs appear on shop fronts; groups of visitors linger in small squares.
   • Festivals during warmer seasons bring european flavour to the square; quiet corners remain good for reflection.

3. Hilltop Views

   • Take a calm ride up a gentle slope; renting a bike or scooter keeps traffic light.
   • The hilltop terrace offers greenery, natural light, sea expanse, plus a european sensibility in the architecture.
   • From the summit, youll spot the harbor, coastline, distant islets; they charm visitors with a serene panorama.
   • Return path leads through pine groves, winter-bare branches, quiet viewpoints, perfect for photography.

Lunch and Snack Options: Where to Eat by the Sea or Pack a Picnic

Grab a market-to-meal plan: olives, cheese, fresh bread, tomatoes, fruit from a waterfront stall; set up near a quiet seafront, atmosphere favorable. Plenty of choices for your plan; what you choose shapes your getaway. This system keeps meals simple.

Markets: Fresh Picks

What to shop: compact items that travel well, no reheating required, taste good at room temperature. Youre planning can begin at the pier market; olives, cheese, baked bread, tomatoes, fruit; a small cooler keeps dairy fresh. Their selections rotate, offering variety. The atmosphere carries a Mediterranean charm, Byzantine herbs, historic mansions called along the shore contribute character; atmosphere remains relaxed.

Picnic Essentials by the Sea

Seating options include a floating platform, a shaded jetty, a grassy patch by the water; transportation between piers supports a flexible plan. Youre able to choose from smaller coves; If you want more time by the water, choose a smaller cove; there, spread a blanket; enjoy swimming breaks; resume the meal. Be mindful of rough conditions after midday; keep beverages in shade; reusable containers minimize waste; enough space exists near beaches for a longer pause.

Practical Prep: What to Pack, Cash, Clothing, and Island Etiquette

Pack a single, lightweight daypack with essentials for a sun-filled excursion: sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, a hat, sunglasses, a compact towel, and a light rain layer. You want comfortable shoes for long hours on cobbled streets and wooden decks; bring a spare pair of socks and a compact umbrella. If you plan a ride on the boats, keep the pack lean so you can reach the pier quickly and avoid extra weight.

Cash matters: carry Turkish Lira for street snacks, small souvenirs, market stalls, and entry fees. Most kiosks and ferries may not accept cards everywhere. Prepare beforehand by withdrawing a sensible amount from an ATM near the airport or in central districts, then split it into small notes for ease. The payment система on some boats relies on cash only, so have coins ready, especially when you travel in Türkiye’s archipelago.

Clothing strategy: lightweight, breathable fabrics for summer; a light layer for breezes near the coastline; modest coverage for visits to places of worship. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes для feet protection on street surfaces and wooden walkways; depending on the forecast, carry a light scarf or shawl ahead of visiting religious sites. Sandals can be fine for flat promenades but you’ll thank sturdy shoes later.

Etiquette rules: arrive with a respectful attitude in serene harbors; speak softly, especially near minarets and churches. In mosques and shrines, remove shoes at the entrance and dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Avoid flash photography inside sacred spaces; always ask permission if you want to photograph people, and be mindful of waiting locals who value quiet. Those practices help preserve the area’s wonderful atmosphere.

Getting there and around: ferries depart from central ports; the ride on classic wooden boats is a breathtaking way to approach the archipelago. Those who want to maximize time should plan to be at the quay well ahead of the first departure; if you have reached the pier late, the next boat could be several hours away. Over the summer season, schedules can shift, so check the official guide or a trusted magazine before you head out. The harbors are located near the city center, and you can return by late afternoon or early evening; planning ahead makes the day smooth.

Additional tips: check the latest timetable in a trusted travel guide or magazine before you head out; bring a power bank for phones, and a waterproof bag for valuables. The route is located within easy reach from Istanbul, and depending on the day you could plan a return by late afternoon. This schedule helps you enjoy wonderful views of minarets and serene streets before dusk, and you’ll encounter subtle traces of the area’s history in waterfront cafes and old houses.