DAILY TOURS: Princes Islands

Most of Istanbul residents refer to the Princes' Islands as “Adalar” (the Islands), as they are the only islands around the city. Any kind of motor vehicles is banned here; something that comes as a welcome relief after the traffic mayhem of Istanbul. Except for the necessary police, fire and sanitation vehicles, transportation is by bicycle, horse-drawn carriage and on foot, as in centuries past. 
The name of the islands comes from the Byzantine period, when princes and empresses were exiled there. But during the Ottoman period, especially around 19th century with the use of steamboats, these islands became a popular resorts for Istanbul's rich people, building their wooden houses. Jewish, Greek and Armenian communities were a large part of the inhabitants of the islands. Today, the islands are popular tourist destinations for daily excursions especially during summer months. There are many monasteries and historic buildings on the islands, besides Victorian style old wooden mansions.

Cruise the Marmara Sea to the Princes' Islands by a regular public ferry boat. The destination is Büyükada (Big Island), the largest among the chain of 9 islands but we will pass by four other islands on the way Kinaliada (Henna Island), Burgazada (Fortress Island), Heybeliada (Saddlebag Island), which are densely populated and Sedefada (Mother-of-Pearl Island) with just a small settlement on it. The other four - Sivriada (Sharp Island), Yassiada (Flat Island), Kasik Ada (Spoon Island) and Tavsan Ada (Rabbit Island) are currently deserted. The whole ridge is famous for the mild climate and lush vegetation and the first five islands, in addition - for the ornate Ottoman houses.

Upon arrival at “Buyuk Ada” take a tour of the Island by horse-drawn carriage known as phaeton. It is the largest and the most famous of this Islands chain. Some of the historical buildings are Aya Yorgi Church and Monastery from 6th century, Ayios Dimitrios Church, Hristos Church and Monastery, and Hamidiye Mosque built by sultan Abdulhamit II.
While on the circular tour of Büyükada, you will pass elegant mansions draped in brilliant purple bougainvillea. You will feel as though you have stepped back into a more leisured and gracious age, almost expecting grand 19th century ladies and gentlemen to come strolling down to the waterfront on an afternoon promenade.

You will have lunch at one of the local restaurants on the sea shore

Later, you will have time to stroll around on your own. Return to Istanbul late afternoon