Istanbul: Round-Trip Ferry Tickets to Princes Islands
ID: GYG260867-451957
Category:
Country: Turkey
Description
Escape the hustle of Istanbul with return ferry tickets across the Marmara Sea to the Princes' Islands. Arrive at Büyükada (Big Island) where you can admire the magnificent old villas, rent a bike, and explore the historic sights at your own pace.
Exchange your voucher at the ticket office in Kabatas and get access to the boat. The boat departs from Kabatas ferry station in the morning and returns in the evening. A Marine Officer will welcome you at the departure pier, help you onto the boat, hand you a Bosphorus cruise plan, and explain to you what you will see during the crossing.
Set off for the Princes' Islands, which in Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman times were used as exile sites and as a monastery region. Today only 4 of the total 9 Princes’ Islands are open to public settlement. Arrive at the most famous and beautiful of these islands called Büyükada, or 'Big Island'. The size of the island is 5.4 km2 and there are 7,300 inhabitants. No traffic except emergency services, carriages and bicycles are allowed there.
Spend the day exploring the island at your own pace. Take a walk through the center and get used to the silence that reigns on the island. See the Merkez Eczanesi, a pharmacy from 1870, and feel you have stepped into a time tunnel. Go to Hamlaci Street 4 and see the ruins of the villa which Trotsky lived in exile between 1929 and 1933, writing his autobiography and 3 volumes on the "History of the Russian Revolution".
Alternatively, rent a bike and cycle around the island admiring the magnificent old villas lining the streets. Explore the Greek Orthodox St. George Church on top of the island's tallest hill where you can also admire fantastic views of Istanbul, the Marmara Sea, and the neighboring islands. Stop over and visit the former Greek Orphanage, Europe’s largest and the worlds 2nd largest wooden house. Enjoy a delicious lunch in one of the many restaurants around the harbor. Go to one of the public beaches (Halk Plaji) or beach clubs for swimming and sunbathing. If you like hiking, you can also walk around the island on foot.
When you have finished exploring, take the return ferry to Istanbul at your leisure. The boat returns from Büyukada (Big Island) to Kabatas ferry station at 7 PM.
Highlights
- Take a walk and get used to the silence that reigns on the island
- See a pharmacy from 1870 and feel like being in a time tunnel
- Visit the ruins of Trotsky house and St. George Church
- Return from the Princes' Island anytime before 8 PM
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
• The ferry departs at 9:45 AM
• Ferry return time from Big Island is at 7 PM
All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
You must keep social distance while in vehicles
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
You must bring your own headphones
You are required to bring and wear a mask
Ferry Departure Point: the pier is located in Kabatas, across tram line number 1 and funicular, close to Dolmabahce Palace. Make your way to the local partner's ticket counter behind the red petrol station. Is it recommended that you use public transport to avoid getting stuck in traffic.
Directions:
• From Taksim: by foot or via funicular F1 (5 minutes)
• From Dolmabahce Palace: by foot (5 minutes)
• From Sultanahmet: tram T1 (15 minutes)
• From Besiktas: by foot or via bus (5 minutes)
• From Galataport: by foot (5 minutes)
• From Galata Tower: by foot or tram T1 (10 minutes)
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 48 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 48 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.
