Things to Do in Adalar (Princes’ Islands), Istanbul

Nestled in the Sea of Marmara just off Istanbul’s coast, Adalar, also known as the Princes’ Islands, offers a peaceful escape from the city’s chaos. Comprising nine islands—four of which are inhabited (Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada)—the area is famed for its car-free streets, historic charm, and Mediterranean atmosphere. Here is a detailed guide to the best things to do across the islands.

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Getting There & Practical Tips

• ⛴️ Ferries: Regular ferries depart from Kabataş, Eminönü, Kadıköy, and Bostancı, with options for both public city lines and private operators like Mavi Marmara and Turyol. The voyage itself is part of the experience—watch seagulls following the boat, sip Turkish tea from the onboard café, and photograph Istanbul’s skyline receding into the mist. Fares are paid with Istanbulkart or contactless cards, and the trip ranges from 60–90 minutes depending on route and stops. Evening ferries are particularly scenic, offering golden sunset reflections on the water. Winter schedules are less frequent, so always check the official timetable before traveling.
• 🚲 Transport on the Islands: Cars are completely banned, preserving a calm, pollution-free atmosphere. The main ways to explore are walking, renting a bike, or using electric shuttles and mini-taxis that connect beaches, monasteries, and hilltops. Bike rentals are available near the ferry piers, with hourly and daily options. Some visitors prefer electric bikes for climbing the steep hills of Büyükada and Heybeliada. Electric shuttles can also be reserved for small groups—a comfortable way to reach remote spots without breaking a sweat.
• 🌸 Best Time to Visit: The ideal season is from April to October, when the islands bloom with jasmine and bougainvillea. Spring (April–June) offers mild temperatures and vivid greenery, while summer (July–August) brings warm sea water and long sunny days. Autumn (September–October) provides tranquility and cooler air, perfect for hiking. Winters are peaceful but chilly, with fewer open cafés and reduced ferry schedules. Early morning visits are best for photography and crowd-free exploration.
• 🏝️ Island Hopping: Ferry routes stop sequentially at Kınalıada, Burgazada, Heybeliada, and Büyükada, making multi-island trips simple. Start from the smallest (Kınalıada) and work your way to Büyükada for a full-day adventure. Consider taking an early ferry and spending one to two hours per island. Inter-island ferries run hourly during summer, letting you easily combine beach relaxation, historical sightseeing, and local dining in one journey. If you’re staying overnight, plan your hop around sunset times for unforgettable views across the Marmara Sea.

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Büyükada (The Big Island)

Büyükada is the largest and most visited of the islands, blending Ottoman grandeur with coastal leisure. The island captivates visitors with its pine-scented hills, car-free streets, and picturesque wooden mansions that recall the late Ottoman and early Republican eras. Visitors often start their journey at the ornate ferry terminal, built in 1899, whose stained-glass windows and intricate tiles offer an instant taste of the island’s nostalgic elegance. As you step outside, the rhythmic sound of bicycle bells and the scent of sea breeze set the tone for a day of leisure and exploration.

Top Attractions:

• 🕍 Aya Yorgi Monastery: Perched atop Yüce Tepe, Büyükada’s highest hill, this 18th-century monastery rewards visitors with panoramic views of the Marmara Sea and Istanbul’s skyline. Pilgrims and travelers alike hike the final steep path to the chapel, tying ribbons on trees and making wishes—a tradition that continues every April and September. The small hilltop café beside the monastery offers tea, lemonade, and unbeatable views.
• 🏚️ Greek Orphanage (Prinkipo Orphanage): Recognized as one of the largest wooden structures in Europe, this architectural wonder sits silently among pine trees. Built in 1898 as a grand hotel and later converted into an orphanage, the building’s imposing yet haunting beauty makes it a favorite for photographers and history enthusiasts. While closed to visitors, it remains an important cultural symbol of the island’s cosmopolitan past.
• 🏡 Historic Mansions: Wander through the Nizam and Maden neighborhoods, where narrow streets lined with pink and white villas showcase the island’s architectural heritage. Look out for the Fabiato Mansion and the Splendid Palace Hotel—both masterpieces of late 19th-century design with elaborate balconies and pastel façades. These streets, shaded by chestnut and pine trees, are perfect for leisurely walks or romantic photo stops.
• 🏠 Trotsky’s House: The Russian revolutionary Leon Trotsky lived here in exile between 1929 and 1933. The house, though not open to visitors, stands as a reminder of the island’s role as a sanctuary for exiles, writers, and thinkers throughout history.

Outdoor Activities:

• 🚴‍♀️ Cycle Around the Island: Rent a bicycle and explore the island’s scenic 10 km perimeter loop. The route takes about 1.5 hours at a relaxed pace, passing through forests, quiet beaches, and coastal roads lined with blooming oleanders. For a shorter route, the “small tour” covers roughly half the distance, making it suitable for families.
• 🌅 Dilburnu Nature Park: A tranquil pine forest on the island’s west side, perfect for picnics and catching the sunset. The park features picnic tables, small snack kiosks, and hiking trails that lead to lookout points with expansive sea views. Locals often gather here for weekend barbecues, and it’s one of the best sunset-watching spots on all the islands.
• 🏖️ Beaches: Büyükada has both private and public beaches. The most popular include Yörük Ali Beach, with its clear water and family-friendly facilities, and Nakibey Plajı, a lively beach club with umbrellas, music, and seaside dining. For a quieter experience, head to Aya Nikola Bay or Princess Bay, where the rocky coves are ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
• 🌲 Hiking and Nature Walks: Beyond the main loop road, numerous forest paths lead up to the island’s twin hills, Yüce Tepe and İsa Tepe. Along the way, you’ll encounter small chapels, panoramic viewpoints, and picnic areas shaded by pines. Birdsong and the distant hum of ferry horns make these trails peaceful and rejuvenating.

Where to Eat:

• 🍽️ Milto Restaurant: A seaside classic established in 1935, Milto serves some of the best seafood mezes in the Marmara region. Its whitewashed terrace sits directly on the water, making it a perfect lunch or dinner spot. Don’t miss their grilled octopus, stuffed vine leaves, and sea bass in olive oil.
• ☕ Secret Garden Café: Hidden in a verdant courtyard near the pier, this café is beloved for its lush surroundings and rich Turkish breakfasts featuring local honey, cheeses, and fresh tomatoes. In summer, the shaded garden provides welcome relief from the midday sun.
• 🍷 Splendid Palace Hotel Restaurant: Even if you aren’t staying overnight, enjoy a cocktail or dinner in this century-old hotel’s art deco dining room. The elegant ambiance, vintage décor, and view of the sea make it an unforgettable dining experience.
• 🍪 Island Sweets: Büyükada’s bakeries are famous for acıbadem cookies, made from ground almonds and egg whites, as well as homemade ice cream flavored with mulberry or mastic. Stop by Büyükada Pastanesi near the ferry for a taste of these island specialties before heading back.

More to Discover:

• 🚤 Explore by Electric Shuttle: For those who prefer a relaxed experience, hop on an electric shuttle that circles the island. It stops at major sights and beaches, offering an easy way to see more without cycling.
• 🎨 Cultural Touches: The island often hosts art exhibits and music festivals during summer, particularly around the Splendid Hotel and the historical ferry terminal. Keep an eye out for poster announcements near the pier.
• 🏛️ Islands Museum (Adalar Müzesi): Learn about the geological, cultural, and social history of all the Princes’ Islands through interactive exhibits. Located near Aya Nikola Bay, it’s an informative stop for history lovers.
• 🐦 Wildlife: Büyükada’s pine forests host various bird species, including hoopoes and nightingales. Bring binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching; the mornings are especially lively with birdsong.

Whether you’re seeking history, nature, or seaside leisure, Büyükada offers an unforgettable blend of elegance and escape, embodying the timeless spirit of Istanbul’s island life.

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Heybeliada (The Green Island)

Smaller and greener than Büyükada, Heybeliada offers serenity with a touch of history and an atmosphere that perfectly balances natural beauty with cultural charm. The island’s name translates to “Saddle Island,” referring to its two forested hills that dip gently in the center, creating a saddle-like shape. Among the Princes’ Islands, Heybeliada is often described as the most balanced—neither as bustling as Büyükada nor as sleepy as Burgazada—making it ideal for both day trips and quiet weekend getaways.

Top Attractions:

• 🏛️ Halki Seminary (Aya Triada): A historic Orthodox theological school founded in 1844, perched atop Ümit Hill, offering sweeping views of the Marmara Sea. Although closed since 1971, the seminary remains a powerful symbol of interfaith history and learning. Visitors can hike or cycle to the summit for a peaceful experience surrounded by pine forests and stone walls.
• 📖 Hüseyin Rahmi Gürpınar Museum: The hilltop residence of one of Turkey’s beloved realist authors, now converted into a museum preserving his manuscripts, vintage furniture, and personal belongings. The journey up is steep but scenic, and the museum’s terrace overlooks both the sea and the city skyline.
• ⚓ Naval Cadet School: Established in the 18th century, this institution embodies Heybeliada’s maritime spirit. Though closed to visitors, its stately architecture—complete with a clock tower and courtyards—is visible from the coastline. On national holidays, cadets parade along the harbor, adding a proud ceremonial touch to the island’s charm.
• 🕍 Panagia Kamariotissa Church: A Byzantine-era gem nestled among pine trees, said to date back to the 14th century. It’s one of the oldest surviving churches in the islands and worth the detour for its spiritual tranquility and historical significance.

Nature & Activities:

• 🌲 Değirmenburnu Nature Park: The island’s green heart, ideal for forest walks, seaside picnics, or even yoga sessions among pine groves. The park has designated picnic tables, scenic viewpoints, and benches where you can rest with a cup of Turkish tea from a nearby kiosk.
• 🌊 Akvaryum Bay: True to its name, this cove features crystal-clear water and vibrant marine life, making it a perfect snorkeling spot. It’s less crowded than Büyükada’s beaches, offering privacy and calm surroundings.
• 🏖️ Ada Beach Club: The island’s largest and most popular beach, reachable via a quick boat shuttle. With sunbeds, umbrellas, a restaurant, and live DJ music in summer, it’s ideal for those seeking comfort with a lively twist.
• 🚴‍♂️ Cycling and Hiking Trails: Rent a bicycle near the pier or explore by foot. The road circling the island provides stunning coastal views, while paths leading to the seminary or Değirmenburnu Park offer a more shaded, nature-focused experience.
• 🧺 Picnic by the Pines: Many locals bring homemade snacks and find shaded spots near the hills or coves. Try an authentic picnic breakfast with fresh börek, olives, and simit from local bakeries before a swim.

Where to Eat:

• 🐟 Heyamola Ada Lokantası: A long-standing meyhane (tavern) famous for its seafood mezes, octopus salad, and sea views. Evening dining here, with gentle sea breezes and candlelight, embodies the island’s timeless romance.
• 🌿 Mavi Köşk: Hidden inside a lush garden, this restaurant serves authentic Turkish home cooking and grilled fish. Its calm setting and ivy-covered terrace make it perfect for a slow, intimate meal.
• ☕ Bahriye Café: Near the ferry pier, this cozy spot is ideal for coffee lovers, offering island-baked desserts and a quiet terrace overlooking the harbor.
• 🍦 Meltem Ice Cream: A must-stop for island visitors. Its creamy, fruit-flavored ice creams—especially mulberry and pistachio—are made fresh daily. Grab a cone and enjoy it while strolling along the waterfront promenade.
• 🫖 Island Breakfasts: Several local cafés serve traditional Turkish breakfast platters with honey, kaymak, olives, cheeses, and freshly brewed tea. Kardelen Café and Çamlık Bahçe are two favorites for morning indulgence before exploring the island.

More to Discover:

• 🎶 Naval Academy Band Parades: During national holidays or summer weekends, the island comes alive with the sounds of marching cadets and music echoing through the harbor streets.
• 🌸 Botanical Beauty: Heybeliada boasts an impressive range of wildflowers and pine species; springtime turns the island into a floral spectacle.
• 🕯️ Evening Serenity: As the last ferry departs, a serene hush falls over the island. Locals gather in seaside tea gardens, watching the sunset glow fade over Istanbul’s silhouette. Staying overnight in one of the island’s guesthouses offers a rare glimpse of the islands after dark—quiet, moonlit, and magical.

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Burgazada (The Artistic Island)

With its literary heritage and artistic ambiance, Burgazada is the most tranquil and culturally rich of the Princes’ Islands. Once home to renowned Turkish writer Sait Faik Abasıyanık, the island exudes a poetic charm that has long inspired artists, writers, and musicians. Its narrow streets, lined with bougainvillea and historic homes, provide a peaceful retreat from Istanbul’s bustle while retaining an authentic local life that revolves around the sea.

Top Attractions:

• 🖋️ Sait Faik Abasıyanık Museum: The preserved home of one of Turkey’s most beloved short-story writers. Inside, visitors find the author’s writing desk, personal letters, and photographs, all capturing the everyday island scenes that inspired his works. The museum also holds literary events and small exhibitions about Burgazada’s artistic legacy.
• 🏞️ Bayrak Tepe (Flag Hill): The island’s highest point offers breathtaking panoramic views across the Marmara Sea, the Istanbul skyline, and nearby islands. At its summit lie the ruins of Hristos Monastery, dating back to Byzantine times, a tranquil spot for reflection or photography. The hike up takes 20–30 minutes and rewards you with fresh pine-scented air and a sweeping vista of open sea.
• ⛪ Aya Yani Church: This Greek Orthodox church near the pier dates to the 9th century and has been rebuilt multiple times. Its quiet courtyard and bell tower provide a glimpse into Burgazada’s multicultural heritage, once shared by Greek, Armenian, and Turkish communities. On religious holidays, the church becomes a center of local celebration, echoing chants and music across the harbor.

Leisure & Scenery:

• 🚶‍♀️ Walk or Bike the 5.5 km Coastal Loop: The island’s single road traces its shoreline, passing picturesque harbors, colorful fishing boats, and serene pine forests. Cycling this route offers a chance to stop at small cafes or coves for swimming along the way.
• 🌇 Kalpazankaya Restaurant & Viewpoint: Situated on the island’s western cliffs, Kalpazankaya is Burgazada’s most famous sunset destination. As the sun dips into the sea, its golden reflection paints the cliffs, and diners enjoy classic Turkish mezes, grilled fish, and local wine. The restaurant is accessible via a scenic half-hour walk or an electric shuttle, making it both a dining and sightseeing highlight.
• 🏊 Beaches and Swimming Spots: While Burgazada has no large sandy beaches, its coves are prized for clarity and calmness. Kalpazankaya Beach offers organized sunbeds and a café, whereas Süt Koyu (Milk Bay) is a hidden pebble beach popular among locals seeking peace and natural beauty. Adventurous swimmers also explore Madam Martha Bay, a rocky coastal area ideal for snorkeling and picnicking.

Where to Eat:

• 🍷 Kalpazankaya Restaurant: Famous for its sunset views and meze platters, this open-air restaurant embodies island dining at its best. Order octopus salad, grilled seabass, and a glass of rakı while waves lap beneath the terrace.
• 🐚 Barba Yani: A charming family-run Greek-Turkish tavern located near the pier. Known for its friendly hosts and recipes passed down through generations, it’s an excellent choice for seafood and warm hospitality. Try their marinated anchovies, fried zucchini, or fish roe salad.
• ☕ Fincan Café: A cozy café for breakfast or afternoon coffee, serving pastries, menemen (Turkish eggs), and desserts with a view of the sea. It’s a favorite stop for writers and locals, who often spend hours chatting or reading beneath the shade of pine trees.

More to Explore:

• 🎨 Artistic Heritage: Burgazada’s creative soul extends beyond Sait Faik. The island hosts occasional open-air art exhibitions, photography workshops, and poetry readings in summer. Many Istanbul-based artists maintain small studios here, making it a quiet but vibrant hub of cultural expression.
• 🐈 Local Life: Cats and dogs roam freely, lovingly cared for by residents who see them as part of the community. Early morning ferries bring fishermen and bakers delivering fresh simit (Turkish sesame bread), adding to the authentic island rhythm.
• 🌅 Hidden Corners: Walk inland through pine groves to discover old monasteries, vineyards, and even the remains of ancient stone quarries. The scent of thyme and sea salt accompanies your steps, reminding you of Burgazada’s unspoiled charm.
• 🎭 Events & Culture: In summer, Burgazada celebrates its Sait Faik Literature Days, featuring readings, concerts, and panels dedicated to the author’s legacy. Locals and visitors gather in the town square for live music and open-air cinema nights that turn the island into an artistic festival ground.

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Kınalıada (The Henna Island)

Closest to Istanbul, Kınalıada is known for its reddish soil, modest hills, and laid-back beach culture. Despite being the smallest and nearest of the Princes’ Islands, it has a distinct identity that combines local residential calm with traditional seaside leisure.

Top Attractions:

• 🕍 Surp Krikor Lusavoriç Church: The only Armenian church on the islands, this 19th-century structure is both a place of worship and a symbol of Kınalıada’s strong Armenian heritage. Visitors can admire its stone façade, modest courtyard, and the serene atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the island’s simple architecture. Nearby, the summer residence of the Armenian Patriarch of Istanbul highlights the island’s enduring multicultural spirit.
• 🏛️ Hristos Monastery: Perched atop Christ Hill, this Byzantine monastery has roots reaching back to the 9th century, serving as a refuge for exiled emperors. The hike up the hill is short but steep, offering superb views of the Marmara Sea and the Istanbul skyline. The tranquil site rewards visitors with a glimpse of the church’s ancient stonework and the remnants of monastic life that once flourished here.
• 🕌 Kınalıada Mosque: Built in the 1960s, this strikingly modern mosque with its triangular roofline and detached minaret represents the architectural transition of mid-century Turkey. Its bright white walls and minimalist design stand out amid the island’s red-toned hills, reflecting the contemporary evolution of faith and form.

Outdoor Fun:

• 🚶‍♂️ Stroll or cycle the short perimeter road, circling the island in under an hour. Along the way, you’ll pass charming gardens, locals fishing from piers, and unobstructed views of the sea.
• 🌄 Climb to Christos Hill for panoramic views of Istanbul’s Asian shoreline and the neighboring islands. The climb rewards early risers with some of the best sunrise photography spots near the city.
• 🏖️ Swim at Teos Beach Club, Ayazma Bay, or Kumluk Beach, where clean, calm waters and low entry fees attract day-trippers and families. Teos is the liveliest, offering lounge chairs and a full-service restaurant, while Ayazma and Kumluk provide a quieter, more local vibe.

For those seeking a bit more solitude, small rocky coves on the island’s south side offer opportunities for snorkeling and peaceful sunbathing. The water here tends to be slightly warmer due to the island’s shallower surrounding seabed.

Where to Eat:

• 🐟 Proti Balık: Located right on the waterfront near the pier, this long-established fish restaurant serves classic Turkish mezes and freshly caught seafood. Their grilled sea bass and calamari are local favorites, best enjoyed with a glass of rakı as the sun sets over the water.
• 🎶 Jarden Gazino: A nostalgic throwback to Istanbul’s golden age of seaside entertainment, Jarden offers dinner accompanied by live Turkish music. Guests dine under string lights and palm trees, savoring traditional dishes like stuffed mussels, fried anchovies, and meyhane-style appetizers. The relaxed atmosphere often transitions into an impromptu singalong as the night deepens.
• 🍧 Yeşil Roma Ice Cream: A beloved institution opposite the ferry terminal, Yeşil Roma has served homemade ice cream for generations. Locals swear by its natural fruit flavors—try mulberry, melon, or pistachio. It’s the perfect post-swim treat or a companion for a twilight walk along the promenade.

More to Discover:

Beyond these highlights, Kınalıada offers an authentic glimpse into island life away from mass tourism. Wander through narrow residential streets lined with bougainvillea-covered homes, where locals greet neighbors from balconies and cats bask in the afternoon sun. Visit the Sikaryan Houses, two twin mansions that showcase 19th-century Armenian craftsmanship and architecture, or pause at the small Atatürk Square, where families gather in the evenings. During summer weekends, open-air film screenings and local music events transform the square into a communal gathering spot.

Local Tips:

• 🌅 The best time to visit is late afternoon, when day-trippers from the mainland begin to depart and the island regains its calm. Stay for dinner and catch the final ferry back for a magical nighttime view of Istanbul illuminated across the water.
• 🚤 Ferries from Bostancı reach Kınalıada in as little as 30 minutes, making it the quickest island for spontaneous escapes. City Line ferries, private sea buses, and even small taxi boats operate regularly in summer.
• 🕊️ Respect the quiet rhythm of island life—avoid loud music on beaches, greet locals politely, and support the small markets and bakeries that sustain the year-round community.

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Insider Tips

• 🚫 No Cars: There are absolutely no private cars allowed on any of the Princes’ Islands. This makes the environment peaceful and quiet, but it also means you will need to rely entirely on walking, biking, or the new electric shuttles. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for cobbled streets and mild uphill paths, especially on Büyükada where the terrain can get steep. The electric shuttles usually operate between main points like the piers, parks, and popular beaches, but schedules vary seasonally. Planning a combination of walking and cycling ensures you enjoy both freedom and access to hidden spots.
• 📅 Avoid Weekends: On Saturdays and Sundays, especially from May to September, thousands of Istanbul locals head to the islands for picnics and swimming. This often leads to crowded ferries and longer restaurant waits. If you visit midweek, you’ll find quieter lanes, shorter ferry lines, and easier access to rental bikes. For photography and sightseeing, early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays are ideal times to capture the atmosphere without heavy foot traffic.
• ⏰ Plan the Return: Ferry schedules differ depending on the operator and the season. Cityline ferries tend to run until around midnight in summer but stop earlier in winter. Private companies like Turyol and Mavi Marmara may have additional routes, but they can fill up fast. Always check the return time upon arrival, and note that queues can get long in the evening on weekends. Aim to board at least one departure earlier than the last listed ferry to avoid being stranded.
• 🧴 Bring Essentials: The islands have small markets and kiosks, but items like sunscreen, bottled water, power banks, and hats are best packed in advance. During high season, many beaches and parks have limited shaded areas, so sun protection is crucial. Also, while most major cafes and restaurants accept cards, smaller snack stands and bike rentals may require cash. Having some Turkish lira on hand will save time. If you plan to swim, bring a towel, lightweight sandals, and an extra outfit for the ferry ride back.
• 🕊️ Respect the Local Environment: The Princes’ Islands are part of a protected ecosystem with pine forests and a large population of birds. Avoid littering and respect local wildlife. There are waste bins near major beaches and piers—use them to keep the area pristine. If you picnic, carry a small trash bag with you. Supporting eco-friendly businesses on the islands also helps preserve their charm for future visitors.
• 📸 Explore Beyond the Obvious: Most visitors stay near the piers, but wandering just 10–15 minutes inland reveals quiet lanes, historic villas, and hidden coves. On Büyükada, side streets away from the central square showcase the authentic architecture and daily life of island residents. On Heybeliada and Burgazada, detours into pine-covered hills or monastery paths often reward you with panoramic sea views and peace.

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Final Thoughts

A day trip to the Princes’ Islands is one of Istanbul’s most rewarding experiences—a blend of sea breeze, history, and tranquility. Each island offers something distinct: Büyükada’s grandeur, Heybeliada’s greenery, Burgazada’s artistry, and Kınalıada’s simplicity. Whether you spend your time cycling, swimming, or sipping Turkish tea by the shore, Adalar promises a timeless escape just an hour from the city.