Private Princes’ Islands Tour

Discovering the Charm of the Princes’ Islands: A Balanced, Insightful Review

Imagine stepping away from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul’s busy streets to find a peaceful retreat where car traffic is replaced by quiet streets and scenic views. The Private Princes’ Islands Tour offers just that — a personalized, flexible way to explore Istanbul’s largest island, Büyükada, along with some of its lesser-known neighbors. For $86.81 per person, this tour lasts around 4 to 5 hours, making it a perfect half-day escape that combines scenic ferry rides, charming villages, historic sites, and seaside relaxation.

We particularly love how this tour emphasizes personalized attention in a private setting, allowing you to set your own pace and focus on what intrigues you most. Whether it’s wandering through quaint streets, learning about Turkish literature at a local house, or enjoying a quiet swim at Madam Marta Koyu, this experience is all about quality over quantity. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide enhances the experience, making complex history, architecture, and local life accessible and engaging.

One potential consideration: the ferry ride to Büyükada takes about an hour, which might feel long if you’re not a fan of boat travel. Also, the tour primarily explores Burgazada, with optional visits to other islands, so if you’re expecting a comprehensive tour of all four islands, clarify with the operator beforehand. This tour suits travelers looking for a relaxed, intimate day away from crowds, especially those interested in authentic local experiences, scenic scenery, and cultural touches.

Overall, if you’re after a balanced blend of scenic beauty, historical intrigue, and personal service, this private Princes’ Islands tour is an excellent choice—ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers eager to see a different side of Istanbul.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guide ensures tailored sightseeing and flexible timing.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Visits to quiet beaches, traditional houses, and historic churches.
• Scenic Views: Ferry rides and island vistas offer stunning photo opportunities.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Turkish literature, island architecture, and local life.
• Relaxing Pace: Walk, bike, or just relax—perfect for a leisurely day.
• Value for Money: The price includes guide service, some refreshments, and entrance fees to key sites.

An In-Depth Look at the Princes’ Islands Private Tour

Starting Point: The Ferry Ride from Kadikoy

The tour kicks off at the Kadikoy Beşiktaş Ferry Station—a lively hub in Istanbul’s Asian side—where you’ll meet your guide and board a boat heading toward Büyükada, the largest of the Princes’ Islands. The ferry ride lasts about one hour, giving you a chance to enjoy views of Istanbul’s skyline and the shimmering waters of the Marmara Sea.

This part of the experience can be particularly enjoyable. As one traveler noted, “enjoyed the ferry, the bus, the museum, and the ice cream,” highlighting the small pleasures that make this tour memorable. If you’re staying elsewhere, the host is flexible to arrange private transfers or alternative meeting points, which is a thoughtful touch.

Arriving at Burgazada: The Island’s Quiet Charm

Your first stop is Burgazada, known for its calm, authentic vibe—a perfect contrast to Istanbul’s busy streets. Here, you’ll start with a coffee or tea while soaking in sweeping views of the sea. Many visitors appreciate this peaceful atmosphere, and one reviewer praised the “beautiful sea view,” which sets the tone for the rest of the day.

Exploring Literary and Religious Heritage

After relaxing with your drink, the tour visits the former home of a prominent Turkish author—a highlight for literature lovers. The guide will share stories about the author’s life and work, adding depth to your visit. Then, you’ll visit Aya Yani Church, a Greek Orthodox church with distinctive architecture. Visitors can choose whether to go inside or admire the exterior, offering flexibility for those interested in religious and architectural history.

A Hidden Beach: Madam Marta Koyu

Next on the itinerary is Madam Marta Koyu, a tucked-away beach named after the island’s famous woman of the era. This rocky bay offers a chance for a peaceful swim and sunbathing, provided you’ve brought your swimsuit and water shoes. “Definitely one of the most unique places to swim in Istanbul,” shared a traveler, emphasizing its appeal for those seeking off-the-beaten-path seaside spots.

Island Life and Optional Lunch

A short hike from the beach takes you past Burgazada Mosque, a lovely spot to enjoy panoramic views or visit the mosque if you wish. Here, you have options: stay for a traditional island-style lunch, take a speedboat ride, or simply head back on the next ferry. The flexibility of this tour allows you to tailor the experience—whether to indulge in local cuisine or relax on the boat.

The Return Journey

The tour concludes back at the ferry pier, with most travelers feeling they’ve gained a genuine glimpse into island life—away from Istanbul’s hustle but rich in culture, history, and natural beauty.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guide: The tour’s success hinges on the guide’s insights—sharing stories about the island’s literary and religious heritage, as well as local customs. Many reviews praise guides for their friendly attitude and depth of knowledge, which makes the experience more meaningful.

Authentic, Peaceful Setting: Burgazada’s vibe, with its quiet streets and scenic beaches, offers a genuine escape from city noise. Travelers love how the tour avoids overly touristy spots, focusing instead on local life and natural beauty.

Leisurely Pace & Personalization: The flexible itinerary allows you to spend more time at sites that interest you most, whether that’s relaxing at the beach or exploring historic churches. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a relaxed, unhurried visit.

Cost & Value: While at $86.81 per person, the tour offers a lot of value including private guide service, some drinks, and entrance fees, it’s especially good for those who want a curated experience without the crowds or rushed schedules.

Potential Drawbacks or Considerations

One thing to keep in mind: the ferry ride is about an hour each way, which might be tiring for some, especially if boat travel isn’t your favorite. Also, if you’re expecting a comprehensive tour of all four islands, clarify beforehand, as this tour primarily focuses on Burgazada with optional visits elsewhere.

On top of that, since food expenses are not included, if you plan to have lunch on the island, budget accordingly. For those who prefer guided meals or specific culinary experiences, you might want to discuss options with your guide.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This private tour suits travelers seeking a calm, personalized, and authentic escape from Istanbul’s urban energy. It’s perfect for those interested in local history, architecture, and seaside relaxation. Couples, small groups, or solo travelers wanting a flexible, intimate experience will find this tour particularly rewarding. If you’re looking for a way to experience Istanbul’s scenic islands without the crowds, this is a solid choice.

FAQs about the Princes’ Islands Private Tour

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate. The relaxed pace and scenic stops make it accessible, but consider your comfort with boat rides and walking.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour’s private nature allows you to spend more time at places that interest you, such as the beaches or historic sites.

Does the tour include transportation to and from my hotel?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You will meet at the ferry pier, but private transfers can be arranged upon request.

What should I bring for the beach stop?
Bring your swimsuit, swimming shoes, towel, and sunscreen. The bay is rocky, so appropriate footwear makes swimming more comfortable.

Are meals included in the tour price?
No, meals are optional and not included. You can choose to enjoy local food on the island or return by ferry.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry ride to Büyükada takes about one hour, providing scenic views of Istanbul and the surrounding waters.

Final Thoughts

This Private Princes’ Islands Tour offers a relaxed, engaging way to experience Istanbul’s neighboring islands with a personal touch. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value authenticity, scenic beauty, and cultural insights over large group tours. You’ll enjoy a peaceful boat ride, charming villages, historic sites, and quiet beaches—all at your own pace.

If you’re after a day of discovery beyond Istanbul’s crowded streets, this tour strikes a good balance between guided insight and personal leisure. It’s a chance to step into a different world—where time slows down, and seaside serenity replaces city noise. Perfect for those wanting to taste the islands’ calm, culture, and charm without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

In short, this experience is a rare blend of cultural discovery, natural beauty, and personalized service—making it well worth the moderate price for anyone seeking a genuine, memorable escape just a ferry ride away.