The Princes Islands Full Day Tour offers a unique opportunity to escape the bustling city of Istanbul. Visitors can explore the charming island of Büyükada, enjoy its historic ambiance, and experience the local culture. With a scenic cruise, guided tour, and complimentary Turkish lunch, this tour provides an exceptional way to discover the region’s rich heritage. Whether you’re seeking tranquility or a deeper understanding of the area, the Princes Islands tour promises an engaging and memorable experience.
Key Points
- Explore the serene Büyükada island, the largest of the Princes Islands, with a guided tour and complimentary lunch included.
- Enjoy a scenic cruise across the Marmara Sea to the island, with air-conditioned transportation and museum entrance fees provided.
- Experience the charming ambiance of the island, featuring historic buildings, electric cars, and iconic landmarks like Aya Yorgi Church.
- Indulge in authentic Turkish cuisine at a local restaurant on the island, immersing in the regional flavors and culture.
- Benefit from a flexible booking option, cancellation policy, and transportation arrangements for a seamless and relaxing tour experience.
Tour Overview
The full-day Princes Islands tour provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the serene Büyükada island, a popular summer destination located in the Marmara Sea.
Guests will cruise on a Maritime lines boat to the island, where they’ll enjoy a guided tour and a complimentary lunch at a local restaurant.
The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, museum entrance fees, and a free shuttle service to and from centrally located Istanbul hotels.
Visitors are encouraged to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and sun protection as they discover the island’s charming streets and attractions.
The tour is available for a minimum of two guests, and reservations can be made with a flexible cancellation policy.
Getting to the Islands
Guests begin their Princes Islands adventure with a comfortable journey, as the tour includes air-conditioned transportation to the ferry port.
From there, they board a Maritime lines boat for the scenic cruise across the Marmara Sea to the charming Büyükada island.
The pickup service operates between 8:00-9:00 AM, providing a convenient 45-60 minute transfer to the port.
Once on the island, guests can explore the quaint streets and historic sites, as the tour no longer includes horse-drawn carriage rides, opting instead for electric cars to minimize environmental impact.
With inclusions like museum entrance fees and a complimentary lunch, the journey to the Princes Islands is both comfortable and enriching.
Visiting Büyükada Island
Upon arriving at Büyükada, visitors are immediately captivated by its charming ambiance. The island’s quaint streets, lined with historic buildings and dotted with electric cars, create a timeless atmosphere that transports guests to a bygone era.
Visitors can explore the island’s highlights, including the Aya Yorgi Greek Orthodox Church, the Büyükada Orphanage, and the Halki Seminary.
The leisurely pace of the island allows travelers to soak in the local culture, browse unique shops, and savor delectable Turkish cuisine at the island’s cafes and restaurants. The complimentary lunch at a local hotel offers a delightful opportunity to sample the flavors of the region.
Guided Island Tour
After disembarking from the maritime lines boat, visitors embark on a guided tour of Büyükada island, exploring its highlights at a leisurely pace.
The knowledgeable guide leads the group through the island’s charming streets, pointing out its historic mansions, lush green spaces, and iconic landmarks.
Visitors stroll past the island’s grand Orthodox churches and learn about its unique history as a former summer retreat for Istanbul’s elite.
The tour provides an in-depth look into the island’s cultural heritage and natural beauty, offering a well-rounded experience of this picturesque destination.
Throughout the tour, guests have the opportunity to stop and capture the island’s stunning scenery with their cameras.
Complimentary Lunch
Concluding the guided tour, visitors savor a complimentary lunch at a local restaurant on Büyükada island, savoring authentic Turkish cuisine and taking in the island’s serene ambiance.
The restaurant’s menu features a variety of classic Turkish dishes, allowing guests to indulge in the flavors of the region. As they dine, they’re surrounded by the island’s charming architecture and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
This complimentary lunch is a highlight of the tour, providing travelers with an opportunity to enjoy the local culture and cuisine. With stunning views and a relaxing setting, the lunch caps off an exceptional day exploring the Princes Islands.
Transportation Arrangements
The tour includes air-conditioned transportation to whisk guests from their centrally located Istanbul hotels to the ferry terminal, allowing for a comfortable and convenient journey to the Princes Islands.
Pickup times are between 8:00-9:00 AM and take 45-60 minutes, so guests should call the local supplier to confirm the exact pickup time.
Once at the ferry terminal, guests will board a Maritime lines boat for the cruise to Büyükada island, the largest of the Princes Islands.
The transportation is included in the tour price, providing a seamless experience from start to finish.
Booking and Pricing
The tour is priced at SEK 797 per person, and guests can reserve their spot and pay later to book the tour. This flexible booking option allows travelers to hold their place without needing to pay upfront.
The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance with no penalty, providing peace of mind for those whose plans may change. Booking early is recommended, as the tour requires a minimum of 2 guests.
Guests should also be sure to call the local supplier to confirm the exact pickup time and availability of the free shuttle service, which runs between 8:00-9:00 AM and takes 45-60 minutes to reach the central Istanbul hotels.
Packing Essentials
Guests should pack their passport or ID card, comfortable shoes, and essential sun protection items like sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen for the Princes Islands Full Day Tour.
This full-day excursion takes visitors on a cruise to the picturesque Büyükada island, a popular summer resort.
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, consider packing the following:
- A light, breathable outfit suitable for the warm, Mediterranean climate.
- A small backpack or cross-body bag to carry personal items.
- Any necessary medication or personal care products.
- A portable charger or extra battery for your camera or smartphone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour itinerary and inclusions do not mention anything about accommodating pets. Bringing a pet would likely disrupt the group experience and violate the tour operator’s policies.
Is the Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?
The tour may be suitable for people with disabilities, but it’s best to check with the tour operator ahead of time. They can provide information on accessibility and make any necessary accommodations to ensure a comfortable experience.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour package does not explicitly mention the option to extend the duration. Guests would need to inquire with the local supplier to determine if extending the tour is possible and what the additional costs would be.
Can I Customize the Itinerary for the Day?
Unfortunately, the tour has a fixed itinerary and doesn’t offer customization options. While the duration can’t be extended, guests can explore the island at their own pace during the included free time.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The dress code for the tour is casual and comfortable. Guests should wear lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes, as there will be some walking involved. Sunglaces, hats, and sunscreen are also recommended to protect against the sun.
Recap
The Princes Islands Full Day Tour offers a captivating escape from the bustling city of Istanbul. Visitors can explore the charming island of Büyükada, seeing its tranquil ambiance, cultural heritage, and natural beauty.
With a scenic cruise, guided island tour, and authentic Turkish lunch, this exceptional tour provides a well-rounded experience to fully appreciate the region’s rich history and local traditions.
