Princes’ Islands, also known as Adalar in Turkish, are a group of islands located in the Sea of Marmara near Istanbul, Turkey. These islands are a popular destination for both tourists and locals looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The most commonly visited islands among the Princes’ Islands are Büyükada (Big Island), Heybeliada (Heybeli Island), and Kınalıada (Kınalı Island).

Here’s how you can get to Princes’ Islands from Istanbul:

1. Choose Your Island:

Decide which island you want to visit. Büyükada is the largest and most popular of the Princes’ Islands, known for its beautiful architecture, horse-drawn carriages, and scenic views.

2. Ferry Schedule:

Be sure to check the ferry schedule in advance as they may vary depending on the season and day of the week.

You can check the schedule from their official website.

3. Get to Kabataş or Bostancı:

  • If you’re on the European side of Istanbul, make your way to Kabataş. You can use various forms of transportation, including buses, trams, or the funicular from Taksim Square.
  • If you’re on the Asian side, head to Bostancı.
Traveling from Kabataş to the Princes’ Islands (Adalar) typically takes approximately 1.5 hours, while the journey from Bostancı is shorter, lasting around 40 minutes.
IstanbulKart

4. Use Istanbul Kart:

Use your Istanbul Kart to pay for and board the Adalar Ferry. As of September 2023, the one-way trip price to the Princes’ Islands is approximately 45.23 TRY. 

You can verify the updated price on their official website.

A Comprehensive Guide on How to Get an Istanbul Kart

5. Enjoy the Ride:

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic ferry ride as you approach the Princes’ Islands. You’ll be treated to beautiful views of the sea and the islands.

Note: The ferry will make stops at Kabataş, Kınalıada, Burgazada, and Heybeliada along the way, with the final destination being Büyükada. Please be mindful of your desired disembarkation point.

6. Arriving at the Island:

Once you arrive at your chosen island, you can explore the island on foot, by renting a bicycle, or by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride. There are no cars allowed on Büyükada and limited motorized vehicles on other islands, making it a peaceful and relaxing environment.

7. Return Trip:

When you’re ready to return to Istanbul, head back to the ferry terminal on the island and catch a ferry back to Kabataş or Bostancı.

Please note that ferry schedules and ticket prices may change, so it’s a good idea to check the latest information and plan your trip accordingly. Additionally, be mindful of the time, especially if you plan to spend the whole day on the island, as the last ferries back to Istanbul typically depart at midnight.