From Suadiye to Princes' Islands: A Day Trip to Enjoy Spring

When the locals in Istanbul want a break from the urban hustle and daily crowds, they head to the picturesque Prince’s Islands. Located just off the Asian Side of Istanbul, this breathtaking group of nine islands is known for its peaceful ambiance, rich history, and incredible architecture. A Prince’s Island tour is an integral part of any Istanbul travel itinerary due to its indulgent mix of nature and nostalgia.

Easy Access to Princes' Islands by Ferry from Bostancı

The Prince’s Islands are accessible by Istanbul Islands Ferry from the Bostancı Pier. Visitors can get to the pier through various modes of public transportation options from all over the city, including the Metrobus, the Marmaray (train), public bus, Dolmuş (Minibus), private car, taxis, and ferry service (from Kadıköy, Beşiktaş, or Eminönü).

At the Bostancı Pier, various ferry options are available to access the Prince’s Islands, such as the public Şehir Hatları and private operators (Turyol, the Mavi Marmara, İDO-İstanbul Deniz Otobüsleri, etc.).

Affectionately known as Adalar by the locals, the Prince’s Islands are situated in the Sea of Marmara. They are called “Prince’s Islands” because they were once a place of exile for the Ottoman and Byzantine royalty. However, after the advent of steamships, they became a luxurious retreat for the elites. Adalar is a chain of nine islands (an archipelago), including four large and five smaller islands. The larger islands are the ones that are inhabited and frequently visited by locals and tourists alike. While the smaller five islands are uninhabited/restricted for the most part. The four inhabited Prince’s Islands include Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada and Kınalıada.

Büyükada is the largest of the nine islands and is full of historic Ottoman mansions and a picture-perfect hilly landscape. Moreover, the Island is also home to the Prinkipo Greek Orthodox Orphanage and the Aya Yorgi Church. Due to its size and popularity, Büyükada is a crowd magnet, and navigating the island requires assistance from Adabüs (local transit) or renting a bicycle.

Heybeliada is often described as the more composed counterpart to Büyükada. Haybeliada attractions include the prestigious naval academy, the Greek Orthodox Seminary, and its rich maritime history. The smallest island on the list, Kınalıada, is known for its beautiful beach, clear waters, and unique reddish-brown soil. You can find the approximate travel times in the table below:

 Kınalıada  25 minutes

 Burgazada 40 Minutes 

 Heybeliada 55 minutes 

 Büyükada 70 minutes 

Cycling and Walking Joy in Büyükada and Heybeliada

Büyükada cycling or walking through Heybeliada is a quintessential Prince’s Islands activity for locals and tourists visiting the islands. There are many bicycle rental places spread across the islands, offering different types of bikes (conventional and electric), depending on the visitors’ preferences. If you are confident in your fitness level and walking abilities, then exploring the islands on foot is an incredible way to experience the local life, history, culture, and landscapes. However, weekend crowds, hilly terrain, and the sheer length of Büyükada are things to consider before committing to a scenic walk.

Returning to Bağdat Avenue and The Marmara Suadiye Comfort

For visitors to Istanbul who want to spend an exciting Suadiye weekend exploring the beautiful Prince’s Islands, The Marmara Suadiye provides the privacy and comforts of home, coupled with the privileges and amenities of a luxurious hotel stay. Furthermore, it is very easy to access the Bostancı Ferry Pier from The Marmara Suadiye by taxi (5-10 minute ride) or even on foot (30-45 minute walk along the coast). Discover other must-see attractions on the Asian side! Book your next trip to Istanbul today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to Get to the Princes' Islands from Suadiye?

You can use public transportation (from Suadiye Marmaray İstasyonu) or a taxi to the Bostancı Pier and get a ferry (Şehir Hatları or one of the private operators) to the Princes’ Islands from there. The journey usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the specific island.

Can You Swim at the Prince’s Islands in April?

Yes, you can swim at the Prince’s Islands in April. However, the water temperature remains chilly (approximately 12°C to 15°C), so it may be advisable to wait another month for a more comfortable swim.

How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Bicycle in Büyükada?

The bike rental cost at Büyükada fluctuates based on the season, demand, type of bike, and inflation levels.

References

https://www.tooistanbul.com/en/istanbul-prince-islands/

https://istanbul.com/blog/the-princes-of-istanbul

https://istanbul.goturkiye.com/princes-islands