Princes' Islands

Located on the coast of Maltepe and Kartal counties, on the Asian side, the Sea of Marmara, there are a total of 9 islands located very close to each other. Six of them, Buyukada, Heybeliada, Kinaliada, Burgazada, Kasikadasi and Sedefadasi form the main Princes Islands. The majority of the island's population is Greek, Armenian, Jewish, and some Christians of Syrian descent.

Buyukada and Heybeliada are some of the most popular sites that offer great sights and attractions to visitors.

The Princes Islands are a popular spot for Istanbulites, especially during the summer, to enjoy great beaches and weekend activities. Tourists also flock to the islands to experience and admire the natural beauty of the island or roam around the island by tram, enjoy very fresh food at the seafood restaurant or enjoy the opportunity to walk. long distance and swimming.

The islands become like a carnival with happy crowds on weekends. So, if you want to visit the islands with the expectation of a peaceful and uncrowded day, you should plan a day trip to the Islands on weekdays or in spring or autumn.

Motor vehicles are not allowed on the island, which makes the archipelago the perfect destination for those looking for a peaceful day and night stay. You can get around the island by tram, or rent a bicycle and explore the island on your own.

When coming to the Prince Islands, visitors often visit Buyukada Island, the largest island and also the center of Adalar district. The main sights and attractions on Buyukada include;

• Tour the island by Tram or bicycle
• Enjoy the beaches
• Visit Aya Yorgi Church (St. George's Church)
• Visit the Museum of the Islands
• Dine at a seafood restaurant by the sea

Aya Yorgi Church (St. George's Church) is the most famous attraction of the Prince Islands. Located on Buyukada's highest hilltop, this Orthodox church is a very unique and peaceful place. The church was built in 1905.

The Aya Yorgi Church is also famous for people writing their wishes on paper and throwing them in boxes, or lighting candles for their wishes. Of course, these are common in every church in the world. Meanwhile, Aya Yorgi Church has special days where if you visit the church on April 23 and September 24, it is believed that your wishes on these days will come true and you will is healed. And if the wish comes true, visitors will return to the church carrying sugar and olive oil to give thanks.

Near the Aya Yorgi Church you will also find a lovely restaurant with a beautiful view of the coast and the city. Guaranteed you will like this place, eat, drink and take pictures.

You can reach the Church by tram or bicycle. It will drop you at the top of the slope. You'll also find here, a beautiful restaurant and stalls selling wish-related gifts and accessories.

You will need to walk up the hill, about 10-15 minutes, so we recommend visiting the Cathedral if you enjoy walking and hiking. You'll also find benches along the way to relax. Remember that there is a superstition that you should not talk or talk to your friends when you climb the hill.

Typical Prince Islands (Adalar) excursions are done by public ferry (Sehir Hatlari) or by private Boat. It takes about 90 minutes (from Eminonu, Kabatas or Besiktas) to reach the Princes Islands by ferry or boat.

Prince Islands Public Ferry Routes (Adalar)

The Princes Islands are easily accessible from the ferries at Besiktas, Kabatas, Eminonu and Bostanci.

• KABATAS - EMINONU - KADIKOY - ADALAR
• BOSTANCI - ADALAR
• BESIKTAS - KINALIADA - BURGAZADA
• BESIKTAS - HEYBELIADA - BÜYÜKADA
• BOSTANCI - USE ADALAR LABEL
• EMINONU - KADIKOY - ADALAR

One-way ferry fare is 5.20 liras/pax