PRINCES' ISLANDS (ADALAR)
The Princes’ Islands are Istanbul’s serene archipelago escape, a chain of car-free havens in the Sea of Marmara, blending Ottoman elegance with historical seclusion.
Once a place of Byzantine royal exile, today they are a tranquil retreat known for their lush pine forests, distinctive wooden mansions, and unique, slow-paced island life.
Most Popular Attractions
Büyükada (Big Island) Highlights
Ayia Yorgi Church & Monastery (St. George): Perched atop the island’s highest hill (Yüce Tepe), offering stunning panoramic views of the sea and Istanbul.
Prinkipo Greek Orthodox Orphanage: The largest wooden structure in Europe and second largest in the world, a significant historical landmark atop Isa Tepe.
Historic Pier: An impressive and traditional structure by architect Mihran Azaryan, often used as a beautiful subject for art and photography.
Princes’ Islands Museum (Adalar Müzesi): Located in Aya Nikola, it details the history, nature, and culture of the entire archipelago.
Hamidiye Mosque: A prominent mosque built by Sultan Abdul Hamid II in 1893, notable for its elegant design and single minaret.
Hesed Le Avraam Synagogue: A beautiful historic Jewish place of worship on the island.
Tarihi Çankaya Caddesi & Nizam Caddesi: Streets famed for showcasing the most beautiful and historic Ottoman-era wooden mansions (Köşks).
House of Leon Trotsky: The location where the exiled Russian revolutionary lived for four years (1929–1933).
Yörükali Plajı: Known as one of the sandiest and most popular beaches on the island, ideal for families.
Con Paşa Köşkü: One of Büyükada’s most majestic and famous historic wooden mansions.
Heybeliada (Saddlebag Island) Highlights
Halki Seminary (Aya Triada Monastery): A significant Greek Orthodox theological school located on Ümit Tepesi (Hope Hill), featuring a monastery from the 11th century.
Naval High School (Heybeliada Deniz Lisesi): An impressive military institution overlooking the jetty, housing the Byzantine Kamariotissa Church, the last church built before the conquest of Constantinople (not generally open to the public).
Hagios Nikolaos Church (St. Nicholas): The Greek Orthodox church in the heart of Halki Town, a testament to the island’s diverse heritage.
İsmet İnönü Museum (Mavromatakis Köşkü): The residence of Turkey’s second President, İsmet İnönü, occasionally open to the public.
Değirmenburnu Nature Park (Tabiat Parkı): A beautiful park on a point with a historic windmill, popular for picnics, walking, and swimming.
Heybeliada Mosque: A notable place of worship, located centrally near the pier.
Burgazada (Fortress Island) Highlights
Sait Faik Abasıyanık Museum: The house-museum of one of Turkey’s most celebrated short story writers, dedicated to his life and work, reflecting his deep connection to the island.
Bayrak Tepe (Flag Hill) & Hristos Monastery: The island’s highest point, offering panoramic views; site of the ruins of a Byzantine monastery.
Kalpazankaya: A coastal area famed for a beach, a fish restaurant, and spectacular sunset views.
Aya Yani Church (Hagios Ioannis Prodromos): A refined and historically significant Greek Orthodox church, rebuilt in 1896.
Madam Martha Bay: A charming, secluded bay, popular for swimming and camping.
Kınalıada (Henna Island) Highlights
Hristos Monastery (Christos Monastery): Located on Hristos Hill, the island’s highest point, offering expansive views, often visited for its serene atmosphere.
Surp Krikor Lusavoriç Armenian Church: A prominent and historic Armenian Orthodox church on the island.
Kınalıada Mosque: A modern yet architecturally notable mosque located near the pier.
Ayazma Plajı: A well-known beach on the back side of the island with sandy shores and clear water.
Teos Beach Club: A popular beach facility known for swimming and sunbathing with views of the mainland.
Activities & Experiences
Cycle the Islands: Rent a bicycle on Büyükada or Heybeliada and explore the islands at your own pace. With no private cars, cycling is the quintessential island experience.
Hike to Aya Yorgi Monastery (Büyükada): Embark on a rewarding hike up Büyükada’s highest hill, Yücetepe, to the historic Greek Orthodox monastery for breathtaking panoramic views of the Sea of Marmara and Istanbul.
Wander Among Historic Wooden Mansions: Take a leisurely stroll on any of the main islands (especially Büyükada) to admire the magnificent, late Ottoman-era wooden villas and architecture that give the islands their unique charm.
Visit the Adalar Museum: Located on Büyükada, explore Istanbul’s first modern city museum to learn about the archipelago’s rich history, from prehistoric times through its use as a place of exile for princes and royalty.
Relax at a Local Beach: Spend a day swimming and sunbathing at one of the public or private beaches on the islands, such as Yörükali Plajı on Büyükada or the various coves on Kınalıada.
Take a Horse-Drawn Electric Vehicle Tour: Since traditional horse-drawn carriages have been replaced, take a ride on the electric public transport vehicles for a scenic and traditional-style “tour” of the major sights on the larger islands.
Savor Fresh Seafood with Rakı: Enjoy a traditional Turkish “rakı-balık” (rakı and fish) experience at a seaside tavern or meyhane (especially on Burgazada or Büyükada) for a taste of the local culinary scene.
Explore the Abandoned Greek Orphanage (Büyükada): View the massive, historic wooden structure on Büyükada (Rum Yetimhanesi), reportedly the largest wooden building in Europe, a powerful, albeit derelict, landmark.
Visit the House Museum of Sait Faik Abasıyanık (Burgazada): Explore the home of one of Turkey’s most celebrated short-story writers, which is now a museum dedicated to his life and work.
Discover the Theological School (Heybeliada): Visit the historic Halki Theological School, located on the Monastery of the Holy Trinity (closed since 1971 but still an important landmark), set in a peaceful pine forest.
Go Island-Hopping: Utilize the inter-island ferries to visit all four main islands—Kınalıada, Burgazada, Heybeliada, and Büyükada—to compare their unique atmospheres and landscapes.
Feed the Seagulls: On the ferry trip to or from Istanbul, buy a simit (Turkish sesame bread ring) and toss pieces to the eager seagulls that follow the boat—a classic Istanbul experience.
Local Tips & Transport
Ferry is the Only Way: The islands are only accessible by sea. Regular passenger ferries (Şehir Hatları, Dentur, TurYol) depart from several ports on the Istanbul side, including Kabataş, Eminönü, Kadıköy, and Bostancı. Ferry travel time varies between one to two hours depending on the starting point and the island.
Use Your Istanbulkart: Public ferries (Şehir Hatları) can be paid for using the Istanbulkart (Istanbul’s public transport card), which offers the most affordable fares. It is essential to check the last ferry times back to Istanbul, especially if you are not staying overnight.
Car-Free Zone: Motorized vehicles (except essential service vehicles) are banned on the islands, contributing to their peaceful atmosphere. This means your primary modes of transport are walking, bicycles, or the electric public transport vehicles (small buses/buggies).
Bicycle Rentals & Hills: Bike rentals are plentiful near the ferry piers, but be warned: the islands, particularly Büyükada, are quite hilly, so cycling can be strenuous. The electric vehicles are a good alternative for those who prefer not to walk or cycle the steep slopes.
Avoid Weekends (in Summer): The Princes’ Islands are a popular escape for Istanbul residents. To avoid the intense crowds, especially on the ferries and on Büyükada, try to visit on a weekday. Spring and Autumn offer the best balance of good weather and fewer crowds.
Historical Diversity: The islands have a rich multi-cultural past, historically home to Greek, Armenian, and Jewish communities, in addition to Turks. This legacy is reflected in the mix of monasteries, churches, mosques, synagogues, and the unique architecture.
Exile and Tranquility: The name “Princes’ Islands” comes from the Byzantine and early Ottoman eras when royalty and political figures were exiled here. Today, this historical isolation has translated into a haven of tranquility and a slower pace of life, a stark contrast to Istanbul.
Dining Customs: Lunch and dinner times follow the general Turkish schedule, with dinner often starting later in the evening (after 8 PM). Many of the best restaurants specialize in fresh fish and Turkish meze (appetizers).
Dress Code: While generally a relaxed atmosphere, be mindful of conservative dress when visiting religious sites such as churches or mosques. Beach attire should be confined to beach areas.
Hidden Gems
The View from Kalpazan Kaya (Burgazada): Hike or bike to the secluded Kalpazan Kaya (‘Counterfeit Rock’) on Burgazada for a spectacular sunset view over the sea, often paired with a stop at the nearby restaurant named after the area.
The Splendid Palas Hotel (Büyükada): An iconic, beautiful white Ottoman-era hotel built in 1908, it’s a stunning architectural gem right near the ferry port. While you may not stay there, the building itself is a must-see landmark.
Heybeliada’s Pine Forests: Unlike the more developed Büyükada, Heybeliada has a more compact center and vast, beautiful pine forests, perfect for quiet hiking and escaping the day-tripper crowds.
Kınalıada’s Red Soil: The smallest of the four main islands, Kınalıada (Henna Island) is named for its reddish-hued soil, a unique geological feature that makes for a picturesque difference from its neighbors.
Top Restaurants
Yücetepe Kır Gazinosu [$15-$25] – Located on Büyükada, near the Aya Yorgi Monastery, this is a simple, beloved spot, famous for its meatballs (köfte) and stunning panoramic views of the sea and islands, often frequented by locals and hikers.
SofrAda Restoran [$15-$25] – Found on a quiet side street in Büyükada, this is a genuine esnaf lokantası (tradesmen’s restaurant), offering a daily changing menu of freshly-made, home-style Turkish cooked dishes (zeytinyağlılar, stews, etc.) at local prices.
Bahar Patisserie [$10-$20] – Located on Kınalıada, this spot is famous for its Turkish breakfast, pastries, and a wide variety of jams and local cheeses, making it a favorite morning gathering place for island residents.
Ergün Patisseria & Cafeteria [$10-$20] – Situated on Burgazada right across from the ferry terminal, this long-standing Turkish-style pastry shop and cafeteria serves simple, traditional treats like poğaça (pastries), burek, and Turkish tea.
Cennet Bahcesi Paradisos Cafe [$15-$25] – A quiet, relaxed café on Burgazada with a beautiful view, offering a good, simple Turkish breakfast served all day, and a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds.
Ucler Tasfirin [$10-$20] – A local bakery and simple eatery on Büyükada’s Nizam neighborhood, known for its excellent pide (Turkish flatbread with toppings) and lahmacun (Turkish pizza), perfect for an inexpensive, authentic meal.
Eskibağ Teras Restaurant [$25-$40] – Located on Büyükada near the back side of the island (requires a walk or taxi), this restaurant is known for its incredible panoramic view, serving classic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes, including fresh seafood.
Heyamola Ada Lokantası [$20-$35] – Situated on Heybeliada, this establishment is highly regarded by locals for its inspired, chill ambiance and fresh, seasonal mezes and fish, often foraged from the island itself.
Balıkçı Süleyman [$25-$40] – A well-regarded fish restaurant in Büyükada, popular for its fresh grilled fish, seafood mezes, and traditional Turkish/Mediterranean main courses, in a friendly, local setting.
By Şükrü Balık [$30-$50] – Located in the row of fish restaurants on Büyükada’s coast, this is known as one of the best for the freshest seasonal fish and a wide selection of cold and hot seafood appetizers.
Barba Yani [$25-$40] – A historical, classic meyhane (traditional Turkish/Greek tavern) on Burgazada, cherished by locals for its authentic Greek and Armenian appetizers (meze) and traditional fish dishes.
Jash Istanbul Kinaliada [$25-$40] – Located in a beautiful spot on Kınalıada, this restaurant specializes in Eastern European, Armenian, and Turkish cuisines, celebrated for its delicious mezes and vibrant, peaceful atmosphere.
Kalpazankaya Restaurant [$30-$50] – An out-of-the-way, open-air meyhane on Burgazada (named after ‘Counterfeiter’s Rock’), known for its stunning sunset views, classic mezes, fresh fish, and a relaxed, secluded atmosphere.
Sahil Ayvalık Cunda Mutfağı [$25-$40] – Situated on the coast of Burgazada, this 30-year-old restaurant is famous for its extensive selection of mezes and fresh fish, often frequented by sailing enthusiasts and island regulars.
Club Mavi [$35-$55] – Located in a rambling old house on the undeveloped backside of Büyükada, it offers typical but well-executed Turkish cuisine and seafood, with a stunning, quiet setting perfect for watching the sunset.
No 2 Garden Restaurant By Şükrü [$30-$50] – An alternative to the seaside spots, this restaurant is located in the serene garden of a 100-year-old mansion on Büyükada, offering a menu that includes both meat and fish options in a beautiful, secluded setting.
Loca’da Restaurant [$35-$55] – Situated in Büyükada, this spot has a distinctive atmosphere reminiscent of the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, and a focus on high-quality ingredients and a tranquil, upscale dining experience.
Four Letter Word Coffee [$10-$20] – Located on Burgazada, this modern-style café stands out with its European-style beverages, specialty coffees, and smoothie bowls, offering a contemporary island stop highly popular with a younger crowd.
Burgazada Terrace Cafe [$15-$25] – A restaurant on the water in Burgazada that, while offering simple food, provides a great atmosphere and views, especially from the second-floor seating, perfect for a casual meal or Turkish breakfast.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Club Mavi (Büyükada): Nestled on the island’s undeveloped backside, this establishment, housed in a rambling old house, offers a stunning view over the sea, especially at sunset. It’s renowned for its fresh fish and is a perfect spot for an atmospheric evening with drinks.
Kalpazankaya Restaurant (Burgazada): Located on a hillside with a magnificent open-air setting overlooking the Marmara Sea, this classic meyhane (traditional bar/restaurant) is famous for its mezes, fresh fish, and laid-back atmosphere, often enjoyed with rakı or local wine.
Buyukada Anadolu Kulubu Bar (Büyükada): An upscale, historic spot within the Anadolu Kulübü (Anatolian Club) near the pier, offering a refined setting for cocktails, wine, and a sophisticated evening experience, often with a seaside terrace.
Splendid Palace Bar (Büyükada): The bar within the historic, iconic Splendid Palace Hotel near the Büyükada ferry terminal offers a taste of old-world glamour and a relaxed setting for a classic drink.
Mimoza Cafe & Bar (Büyükada): A popular seaside spot, particularly near the main harbor area, known for its pleasant view and being a relaxed place to enjoy a cool drink or an afternoon cocktail.
Heybeliada Su Sporları Kulübü Bar (Heybeliada): The bar attached to the watersports club offers a beachfront or pier setting on Heybeliada, perfect for a casual drink with a view of the sea and Istanbul’s skyline.
Luna Park (Büyükada): While mostly a picnic and recreation area, the small café/bar on the hilltop near the Ayia Yorgi Monastery offers a simple but classic experience: local wine, light snacks, and a spectacular panoramic view after the steep walk up.
Eskibağ Teras Cafe & Restaurant (Büyükada): Situated on the high ground of the island, this terrace restaurant offers a breathtaking view, making it a wonderful location to enjoy a wine or a beer with dinner as the sun sets.
Milto Restaurant (Heybeliada): A well-regarded seafood restaurant near the main square of Heybeliada that offers a full bar and is a classic evening destination for rakı and fish, providing a lively meyhane atmosphere.
Faça Balık & Köfte (Burgazada): A popular fish and meatball restaurant often operating as a lively meyhane in the evenings near the Burgazada pier, serving traditional Turkish drinks in a communal, friendly atmosphere.
Kinaliada Aile Çay Bahçesi (Kınalıada): While a “tea garden” by name, these types of venues on the islands often serve beer and sometimes wine in the evenings, offering a very casual, local, and budget-friendly place to relax near the main pier.
Gülizar Balık (Büyükada): Located among the row of restaurants near the Büyükada ferry terminal, this is a popular spot for seafood and rakı and provides a classic Turkish waterfront dining/drinking experience.
Arzum Pub (Büyükada): A more relaxed, pub-style venue slightly away from the immediate harbor bustle in Büyükada, providing a casual setting for beer and simple mixed drinks.
Buyukada Sahil Pub (Büyükada): A straightforward, no-frills pub close to the Büyükada seafront, ideal for those seeking a quick, cold beer or a simple spirit.
Teos Kınalıada Beach & Restaurant Bar (Kınalıada): A beachfront location on Kınalıada that transforms in the evenings, offering a stylish setting for drinks with the sound of the sea nearby.