How to get to the Princes' Islands from Istanbul

The Princes' Islands are a group of nine islands located in the Sea of Marmara, about 5 kilometers from the center of Istanbul. You can reach these islands by ferry in approximately 35 to 60 minutes. In this article, I will guide you on how to find guided tours or ferries from Istanbul to the Princes' Islands, how to check the ferry schedule, and how to pay for your trip.

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Book a guided tour to Princes’ Islands Buy Istanbul E-pass with roundtrip ferry ticket to Princes Islands

When is the Best Time to Visit the Princes' Islands

When planning a trip to the Princes' Islands, it's important to remember that these islands are a popular weekend getaway for Istanbul residents. Many people looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city flock to the Princes' Islands on weekends and holidays.

Choosing the Right Day:

• Opt for a weekday for your visit to the Princes' Islands.
• On weekends, you may have to stand on the ferry to Princes' Islands, and once you arrive, you could face long lines for bus rides and dining at restaurants.

Tip: Early in the morning, the islands are stunning. It's worth catching the first ferry and sitting on the starboard (right) side to enjoy the view of the islands.

Best Time of Year to Visit Princes' Islands:

• Summer: During the hot summer months, prioritize a beach holiday.
• Fall and Spring: Devote time to walks and guided tours during the pleasant fall and spring seasons.

Guided Tour or DIY Trip to the Princes' Islands

What is the more enjoyable way to visit the Princes' Islands—a guided tour or a do-it-yourself trip?

If you would like to know more about the Princes' Islands, visit the most fascinating corners, and taste the most delicious food, it is better to book a guided tour. Excursions to the Princes' Islands usually have a balanced and well-thought-out program. Just choose a tour that best suits your interests.

Tips for Independent Travel Lovers:

• Exploring the Princes' Islands can be physically demanding due to the many ascents and descents.
• It's essential to research information about the islands before your trip and select the sites you wish to visit.
• You can plan to visit two islands in one trip, but be sure to catch the early ferry from Istanbul to make the most of your day.

Ferries from Istanbul to the Princes' Islands

The largest and most comfortable ferries to the Princes' Islands are operated by the company Şehir Hatları.

I recommend taking a Şehir Hatları ferry from Istanbul to the islands for the following reasons:

• Comfort: Large ships guarantee less pitching and minimize the risk of seasickness.
• Scenic Views: The ships have several open areas on the bow and stern, allowing you to enjoy the views of the islands and take beautiful photos.
• Sheltered Areas: There is a closed deck for those who want to hide from the wind.
• Refreshments: You can buy coffee, tea, and light snacks at the café on the ferry.

The Most Convenient Ferry Route from Istanbul to the Princes' Islands

1. The ferry departs from Kabataş Pier on the European side of Istanbul.
2. It makes a stop at Kadıköy Pier on the Asian side.
3. The ferry arrives at the first island, Kınalıada, in 35 minutes.
4. It stops at Burgazada Island 15 minutes later.
5. The next stop is at Heybeliada Island, another 15 minutes after Burgazada.
6. The ferry reaches Büyükada Island in an additional 15 minutes.

The total travel time from Istanbul to the islands ranges from 35 minutes to 110 minutes.

How to Find the Ferry Schedule to the Princes' Islands

You can find the ferry schedule on the official

How to find out the ferry schedule to the Princes' Islands

You can find the ferry schedule on the official Şehir Hatları website - https://sehirhatlari.istanbul/en. Unfortunately, the website is often down.

Please note that the ferry schedule on weekdays and Saturdays differs from the schedule on Sundays and holidays.

The ferry schedule changes twice a year. Therefore, before your trip, be sure to check the schedule:

• On the company's website (if it works)
• At the Kabataş or Kadıköy pier
• In a paper schedule in the form of a booklet
• From the guide if you booked a tour

How to Find the Pier and Ferry to the Princes' Islands

To begin your journey, head to either the Kabataş or Kadıköy pier.

Once there, look for the building and entrance marked "Adalar Hattı - Princes' Islands Line." If you're unsure, don't hesitate to ask the locals for directions to "Adalar Hattı."

Before passing through the turnstile and paying for your fare, check the board above. It should display the ferry departure time and the word "Adalar" (islands).

How to Pay for the Ferry to the Princes' Islands

You can pay for a trip by ferry to the Princes' Islands in the following ways:

• Tickets: You need 4 tickets for each passenger for one ride to the Princes' Islands.
• Istanbulkart: Alternatively, you can use an Istanbulkart transport card with sufficient balance to pay for the trip. Note that up to five people can travel with one Istanbulkart.
• Contactless Payment Options: At some turnstiles, it is possible to pay with a contactless bank card. However, not all cards work consistently, and if you manage to pay today, it is not guaranteed that you will be able to pay again tomorrow.
• Istanbul E-pass is cost-saving way to discover Istanbul’s most in-demand attractions. It includes roundtrip ferry ticket to Princes Islands.

The article How to pay for public transport in Istanbul explains how to buy and top up an Istanbulkart.

• Cost: If you pay with an Istanbulkart, a ferry ride to the Princes' Islands costs 88.38 liras (about $2).

If you decide to visit two or three islands, remember that each trip between them will cost the same - 88.38 liras.

Travel costs on ferries increase 2-3 times a year. In the article Istanbul: public transport tickets and fares, I try to keep up with the price changes.