Buyukada, Princes' Islands (Büyükada)

The biggest of the car-free Princes' Islands, a ferry ride into a slower, pine-scented world of Belle Époque wooden mansions, bicycles, and swimming coves. A lovely escape a friend happily sends you on. Caveat: summer weekends are mobbed, the ferry is long, and the famous horse carriages are gone (electric shuttles now).

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Are cars really banned?

Yes, private motor vehicles are banned, which is the whole appeal. You get around on foot, by rented bicycle, or on the island's electric shuttles. The old horse-drawn carriages were retired around 2020 on welfare grounds.

Is it worth it in a single day?

Yes, most people do it as a day trip and that's plenty. Leave in the morning to get ahead of crowds and beat the afternoon heat, and aim to catch a ferry back before the sunset rush when boats fill up.

Can I swim there?

Yes, there are beach clubs and coves around the island, most charging a day-entry fee for loungers and facilities. The water is calmer and cleaner than the city shoreline, which is a big part of why locals come out.

When should I avoid going?

July and August weekends, when half of Istanbul seems to have the same idea and the ferries and lanes get packed. A weekday in May, June, September, or October is the island at its best.

How long does the ferry take?

From Bostancı on the Asian side it's as quick as 30-40 minutes; from Eminönü or Kabataş budget 75-100 minutes depending on season and whether it's an express boat. Factor the round trip into your day.

How much does it cost overall?

The ferry itself is cheap, just an IstanbulKart tap or a low single fare each way. Your real spending is on bike rental, beach club entry, and lunch, so it's an affordable day out unless you go all-in on a seafood feast.

How do I get to Büyükada?

Public ferries run from Eminönü, Kabataş, and Beşiktaş on the European side and Kadıköy and Bostancı on the Asian side, operated by Şehir Hatları, Turyol, and Dentur. Bostancı is the fastest at 30-40 minutes; from central European piers expect 75-100 minutes.

What is there to do once I'm there?

Rent a bike and loop the island, walk or take a shuttle up toward the Aya Yorgi (St. George) monastery for the view, swim at one of the beach clubs, and eat at a harbor fish restaurant. It's about slow wandering more than ticking off sights.

Nearby in Ask Istanbul

• Büyükada Beach (Yörük Ali Plajı)Beach0.91 km · 11 min walk
• Nakibey BeachBeach1.14 km · 14 min walk
• Fenerbahçe ParkıPark14.47 km · 181 min walk
• ModaNeighborhood15.95 km · 199 min walk
• Moda TerasCafé16.03 km · 200 min walk