Büyükada — Attraction in Prince Islands

This idyllic island boasts an array of attractions, from breathtaking views and pleasant weather to encounters with wild horses and other animals that add an extra touch of excitement to your visit. While it's true that prices on Büyükada are generally higher compared to Istanbul, the overall experience is well worth it.

The first thing that strikes you upon arriving on Büyükada is its picturesque setting. As you step off the ferry, you're greeted by a charming landscape featuring beautiful hills, lush greenery, and the sparkling blue waters of the Sea of Marmara. The island's natural beauty alone is enough to captivate any visitor, and it serves as a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

One of the most enchanting aspects of Büyükada is the presence of wild horses roaming freely across the island. These magnificent creatures not only enhance the island's scenic appeal but also offer a unique opportunity for close encounters with nature. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll along the island's many trails or enjoying a bike ride, the sight of these majestic horses galloping across the meadows is truly a sight to behold.

Apart from the wild horses, Büyükada is also home to a variety of other animals, further adding to its charm. From friendly cats roaming the streets to colorful bird species that inhabit the island, animal lovers will find themselves in their element. Exploring the island's diverse wildlife and observing these creatures in their natural habitat is an experience that both children and adults will cherish.

While the prices on Büyükada may be higher compared to Istanbul, it's essential to consider the unique experience and tranquility this island offers. The higher prices can be attributed to the island's remote location and the limited resources available, which are necessary to sustain its small local population. Despite this, the island's captivating ambiance, stunning views, and the chance to connect with nature make it a worthwhile destination.

Büyükada also holds a rich history and cultural heritage, with elegant Ottoman-era mansions dotting the island. These grand residences, some of which have been converted into boutique hotels or charming restaurants, add an air of nostalgia and provide an opportunity to immerse oneself in the island's past. Additionally, exploring the island's historical sites, such as the Monastery of St. George or the Aya Yorgi Church, can offer a deeper appreciation for Büyükada's cultural significance.

In conclusion, Büyükada is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a chance to reconnect with nature. Despite the slightly higher prices compared to Istanbul, the island's breathtaking views, pleasant weather, encounters with wild horses and other animals, and the overall sense of tranquility make it an ideal getaway. Whether you're seeking a day trip or a longer stay, Büyükada will undoubtedly leave you with cherished memories and a desire to return to its...

This is a must see when you’re visiting Istanbul. Get a ferry from Kabatas (T1 tram, Adalar from the main terminal, the massive modern building - NOT fake Adalar to the left of the petrol station where the man with loudspeaker will direct you but they don’t accept the Istanbul travel card and only have a couple of sailings. Ferries every hour and the journey takes just under 2 hours stopping several times on the way at Asian side and smaller islands. The island is a haven away from the bustle of Istanbul. However, we visited October when the tourist numbers are diminished - in high season it’ll be busy. I stayed for a week in 1981 and again in 1993 when even in August, tourist numbers were manageable, so this was a trip down memory lane. We nearly stayed again on the spur of the moment with some hotels being reasonable (2k/3k TL in October). Walked to the mosque at Nizam, looking at the beautiful wooden houses and flowering plants, then on to Asiklar. The fitter and more intrepid and those of an Orthodox persuasion may care to visit the Greek Monastery high on a hill in the middle of the island. Caught the bus back to Adalar, using the Istanbul card to pay and ate lunch one road back from the sea front at Pelikan - very reasonable compared to Istanbul and excellent fish. Then cake and tea in bread shop just further down. It’s a short stroll around the main town from where you can catch an Adalar Lines ferry back to Kabatas or island hop on the local ferries and pay cash like we did (much cheaper than using the travel card for one stop as you’ll pay to go back to Istanbul for each hop as tourists can’t use the refund machines). When you’re ready to go back to Istanbul, catch the Adalar lines ferry from your last stop… Great views of the massive expansion of Istanbul on the Asian side out and back, a mini cruise and plenty of sea air. The island is hilly so unless you’re reasonably fit, catch a bus. In the old days you could get a donkey and trap but those days (and the farting donkeys) are a thing...

It was 11th July 2019. The day was beautiful as any July day in Istanbul. Actually it rained in early morning. Our boat was on time and we set off to one of the scenic place I could've ever seen. I've heard a lot of stories related to Princess Island but by going there and feel the ambiance was something so spiritual. The boat trip to the Island was fabulous. We enjoyed the scenes and the time in the boat. There was love karoake and a band performing music in different languages (they sang 🇵🇰 songs as well). We danced, my eldest kid was super excited.

The moment we landed on Buyukada, I was overwhelmed by the beauty and cleanliness of island. Visited Adalar bazaar and had lunch there. It was a very busy day and bazaar was jam-packed with tourists. I rented a bicycle to roam around the island while my wife and kids went to the play area located just beside dock. While cycling, I kept falling in love with the nature and mesmerising views. Also the residents there have kept it CO2 free by commuting solely on cycles or horse riding. We took horse riding afterwards which was unique in its own way. Loved every bit of my time spent at this beautiful island. While we were returning to our boat, a dog accompanied us. We were skeptical at first but the boat management told us that it's okay and let the dog on-board; they'll take care of him. We were provided food while traveling in boat and the staff was super friendly. Daughter of one female staff became friend of my 3 y/o and both enjoyed their time together. We were so tired after coming back to Istanbul Bosphorus that we took taxi instead of using Metro bus which was costly even after bargaining but we had to. Went to the bed immediately after reaching hotel and skipped dinner. I would highly recommend everyone to take Princess Island tour while their stay...