Princes' Islands (Adalar) | Istanbul

The Princes' Islands (Turkish: Adalar) are a group of nine islands located in the Sea of Marmara, just off the coast of Istanbul, and are a popular getaway for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. These islands offer a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and a charming atmosphere that contrasts with Istanbul’s urban energy.

Overview of the Princes' Islands

The islands are known for their scenic beauty, traditional architecture, and relaxed vibe. They are car-free, which means transportation around the islands is done on foot, by bicycle, horse-drawn carriage, or small electric vehicles, preserving their tranquil environment. The islands are a popular destination during the summer months, providing a retreat with clear waters, lush greenery, and an abundance of historical sites.

The Nine Princes' Islands

The Princes' Islands consist of nine islands, though the four largest and most famous are typically the focus of visitors. They are:

Büyükada (Big Island) – The largest and most popular island.

Heybeliada (Saddle Island) – Known for its natural beauty and historical sites.

Burgazada (Fortress Island) – Known for its quiet atmosphere and Greek Orthodox heritage.

Kınalıada (Henna Island) – The smallest of the four main islands with a more laid-back charm.

Çınar Island

Ağva Island

Sedef Island

Yassıada (Flat Island) – Known for its more recent history as a political detention site.

Karakaya Island

For the most part, tourists visit Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada. The remaining islands are smaller and less frequented.

Key Highlights of the Princes' Islands

1. Büyükada (Big Island)

Büyükada is the largest and most visited island, famous for its Victorian-era houses, scenic walking paths, and panoramic views of the Sea of Marmara.

Aya Yorgi Monastery: Perched on a hilltop, this Greek Orthodox monastery offers stunning views of the island and surrounding seas. It’s a popular pilgrimage site, especially on April 23rd, when many visitors come to celebrate the feast of Saint George.

Historic Mansions: The island is home to many beautiful old wooden houses, many of which date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These houses represent an era of Ottoman and European influences, contributing to the island's picturesque charm.

Horse-Drawn Carriages: One of the unique ways to explore Büyükada is by horse-drawn carriage, which offers a nostalgic and relaxing experience as you ride through the island’s lush forests and along its cobblestone streets.

Beaches and Parks: Büyükada has several beaches where you can swim, as well as beautiful parks perfect for picnicking or a leisurely stroll, such as Çınar Beach and Lunapark.

2. Heybeliada (Saddle Island)

Heybeliada is the second-largest island and is often considered the greenest and most relaxed of the islands.

Heybeliada Monastery: The Hagia Triada Greek Orthodox Monastery, located at the top of the island, is an important historical and religious site. It’s a peaceful retreat with beautiful surroundings and views.

Naval High School: The Naval High School on Heybeliada is a significant landmark with a long history, especially notable for its unique Ottoman architectural style.

Nature and Hiking Trails: The island is known for its dense pine forests, making it ideal for hiking and nature walks. The hilltops offer spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding islands and Istanbul.

Beaches: While Heybeliada isn’t as renowned for its beaches as Büyükada, there are still lovely spots for relaxation, such as Lido Beach.

3. Burgazada (Fortress Island)

Burgazada is one of the quieter and more serene islands, perfect for those seeking peace and a less commercialized experience.

Pazar Yeri: The island has a charming, laid-back town center, with cafés and small shops offering local delicacies and handmade goods. The central square, Pazar Yeri, is where visitors often gather to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Ayazma Beach: A small, beautiful beach with crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Historical Sites: Burgazada has several interesting Greek Orthodox churches, including Saint George Church, which adds to the island's historic charm.

Sakıp Sabancı Mansion: On the outskirts of the island, this mansion belonged to the renowned Turkish businessman Sakıp Sabancı. While the mansion itself is not typically open to the public, the area around it is tranquil and scenic.

4. Kınalıada (Henna Island)

Kınalıada is the smallest and least visited of the four main islands, making it the ideal place for those seeking a more intimate experience.

Kınalıada Beach: While the island is smaller, it offers a few quiet beaches where visitors can swim and relax away from the crowds.

Charming Villages: Kınalıada features a traditional village atmosphere with quaint streets and wooden houses, making it a peaceful place to explore on foot or by bike.

5. Yassıada (Flat Island)

Yassıada is famous for its relatively modern history. It was used as a political detention center for former Turkish leaders in the 1960s after the military coup. Today, it is less accessible to tourists, but it offers a more off-the-beaten-path destination for those interested in recent history.

Transportation to the Princes' Islands

Getting to the Princes' Islands is easy and convenient from Istanbul. The ferries run frequently from several piers along the European side of the city, including:

Eminönü (one of the main departure points)

Kabataş

Beykoz

The journey to the Princes' Islands typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on which island you're heading to. Ferry rides offer stunning views of Istanbul's skyline and the Sea of Marmara, making the journey itself part of the charm.

Things to Do and Tips

Car-Free Atmosphere: One of the unique aspects of the Princes' Islands is that cars are prohibited. The only motorized vehicles are emergency and municipal service vehicles, making the islands peaceful and quiet. Visitors can get around by walking, biking, or taking horse-drawn carriages.

Rent a Bicycle: Cycling is a popular way to explore the islands, and several shops rent bikes for a few hours or the entire day. The islands' relatively flat terrain and scenic roads make it ideal for biking.

Beaches and Swimming: The islands are great for beach lovers, with clear waters perfect for a refreshing swim. Some beaches charge an entrance fee, while others are free.

Explore the Local Cuisine: The islands have excellent seafood restaurants, many of which have stunning views of the water. Try the fried fish and meze dishes, which are staples of Turkish seaside dining.

Conclusion

The Princes' Islands offer a wonderful escape from Istanbul’s busy city life, providing a peaceful, scenic retreat with a fascinating mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets, enjoying a leisurely ferry ride, or relaxing on one of the islands' tranquil beaches, the islands offer a unique and memorable experience for anyone visiting Istanbul.