Princess Island Tour with Lunch & Ferry Ride

Exploring Büyükada: A Guided Day on Istanbul’s Largest Princess Island

If you’re seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle of Istanbul, a day trip to Büyükada, the largest of the Princess Islands, offers a refreshing change of scenery. For just $32 per person, this 8-hour tour includes a round-trip ferry ride, guided commentary in both English and Arabic, and a charming horse-drawn carriage tour around the island. It’s a chance to see a different side of Istanbul, with a glimpse into a quieter, car-free world where history, beaches, and leisurely strolls come together.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to enjoy scenic views from the water, passing iconic landmarks like Topkap Palace and the Kız Kulesi (Maiden’s Tower), all without the crowds. Plus, the lunch included offers a welcome taste of local flavors, making this a well-rounded day for those looking to combine sightseeing with relaxation. That said, the timing and communication issues noted in reviews are worth considering, especially if punctuality and language are important to you.

This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, guided experience with a focus on authentic scenery and local charm, rather than high-energy activities or intense sightseeing. If you’re comfortable with some unpredictability and enjoy gentle exploration, this trip may fit your style.

Key Points

• Scenic boat ride offers views of Istanbul’s skyline and landmarks.
• Bilingual guides (English and Arabic) make communication smooth.
• Horse-drawn carriage provides a charming way to explore the island.
• Lunch and ferry tickets included add value and convenience.
• Potential delays and service issues have been noted in reviews.
• Ideal for travelers seeking relaxation and a taste of local island life.

A Detailed Look at the Princess Island Tour Experience

The Journey Begins: Istanbul to Büyükada

Starting at 8:30 am, this tour kicks off with hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics in a city as sprawling as Istanbul. You’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle, leaving behind the busy streets for the calm waters of the Sea of Marmara. The ferry ride is a highlight in itself—expect to pass by Taksim Square and sail past landmarks that tell stories of Istanbul’s layered history.

This part of the tour is both scenic and practical. The boat ride offers great photo opportunities, especially of the Kız Kulesi (Maiden’s Tower), which often appears like a fairy-tale sentinel guarding the Bosphorus. The presence of bilingual guides ensures you won’t miss out on the significance of these sights, whether you’re an English or Arabic speaker.

Exploring Büyükada: History, Beaches, and Carriage Rides

Once ashore, the real fun begins. You’ll travel around the island on a horse-drawn carriage, a charming and leisurely way to see the sights. Büyükada is known for its historic mansions, beaches, and serene pine groves, so this is an ideal opportunity to escape Istanbul’s noise while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

From reviews, we know that travelers appreciate the ample free time to relax on the beaches, which are perfect for lounging or a quick swim if the weather permits. The carriage ride offers a nostalgic feel and an intimate look at the island’s architecture and natural beauty.

Dining and Local Flavors

Lunch is included, which is a significant plus—especially since it takes the hassle out of finding a decent spot on the island. While reviews don’t specify the cuisine, the inclusion of lunch makes this experience more practical and less stressful, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying the surroundings.

Considerations and Caveats

A few reviews point out some disappointments, such as delays during pickup and unfriendly operator behavior. Michel_L mentions a lack of communication regarding delays, which can be frustrating if you’re trying to stick to a schedule. Tina_A reports that the tour was in the local language rather than English, despite booking for English, highlighting the importance of confirming language arrangements beforehand.

Plus, since the ferry ride is government property, there’s little the operator can do about delays or schedule changes. For a more private experience, travelers might consider additional costs for a speedboat transfer.

This tour is best suited for those who are patient and easygoing, comfortable with some unpredictability, and looking for a relaxed day rather than a tightly timed sightseeing marathon.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Morning: From Istanbul to Büyükada

The day starts with a pick-up from your hotel (or designated meeting point), a smooth way to avoid the logistical headache of arranging transport yourself. The drive to the ferry terminal is quick and comfortable, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

Following a short wait, you’ll board the ferry. The boat ride takes approximately an hour, during which you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Bosphorus Bridge. This portion of the trip is particularly enjoyable for photography buffs, as you witness the city from a different perspective.

Mid-Morning: The Ferry Arrives at Büyükada

Once at the island, your guide will lead you on a horse-drawn carriage tour. This old-fashioned mode of transport offers a slow, scenic way to see the island’s highlights, including historic villas, pine forests, and quiet beaches. The carriage ride is usually flexible, allowing you to stop for photos or short walks.

Afternoon: Relaxation and Lunch

After the carriage ride, you’ll have free time to explore or relax on the beaches—many visitors mention the calm waters and peaceful environment. The inclusion of lunch means you can enjoy a local meal, often a chance to try fresh seafood or traditional Turkish dishes, depending on where you choose to eat.

Late Afternoon: Return Trip to Istanbul

As the day winds down, you’ll board the ferry back to Istanbul, with the return transfer included. The group then gets dropped off at your hotel or a central location, completing a well-organized, if occasionally imperfect, day trip.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Advice

While the scenery and relaxed pace are the main draws, it’s worth noting that service and timing may vary. One reviewer expressed dissatisfaction with operator attitude and delays, reminding us that some aspects depend on external factors, especially the government-operated ferry.

That said, the value is clear. For $32, with lunch, transportation, and guided commentary in two languages, you get a comfortable, scenic day that balances sightseeing with leisure. It’s particularly well-suited for first-time visitors or those wanting a gentle introduction to the islands, especially if you prefer guided rather than self-led exploration.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic, low-key experiences rather than high-energy tours, this trip should appeal. Just prepare for some unpredictability and be flexible with your expectations.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is great for relaxed travelers who want to see a beautiful island without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s ideal for families, couples, or anyone interested in a peaceful escape with simple pleasures—beaches, scenic carriage rides, and good food.

People who speak English or Arabic will find communication straightforward, and those who enjoy photo opportunities will love the views from the boat. If you’re looking for a more private or punctual experience, you might want to explore other options, but for a balanced, affordable day, this tour offers a lot of value.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What time does the tour start? The tour begins at 8:30 am with hotel pickup (if included).
• Is transportation included? Yes, hotel pickup, drop-off, and ferry tickets are included in the overall price.
• How long is the ferry ride? The ferry ride from Istanbul to Büyükada is approximately one hour each way.
• Are guides bilingual? Yes, guides speak both English and Arabic, making communication clear for most travelers.
• Is lunch included? Yes, a meal is provided, saving you time and effort on finding food on the island.
• Can I relax on the beaches? Yes, there’s plenty of free time for relaxing, swimming, or strolling along the coast.
• What if there’s bad weather? The tour requires good weather. In case of cancellation due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• Are there any additional costs? Drinks are not included unless specified, and optional extras like private speedboats incur additional charges.
• How many people are in the group? The tour is limited to a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a comfortable, small-group experience.
• Is this tour suitable for children? It generally is, especially if your kids enjoy boat rides and relaxed sightseeing; however, consider delays and the nature of carriage rides.

To sum it up, this Princess Island tour offers a charming, affordable way to experience Büyükada’s natural beauty and gentle pace. It’s best suited for those happy to go with the flow and eager to enjoy scenic views, good company, and a taste of island life. While some logistical hiccups have been noted, the opportunity to relax, photograph, and indulge in a simple lunch makes this a worthwhile outing for many travelers seeking a peaceful day away from Istanbul’s busy streets.