Princes’ Islands (Adalar)

An archipelago of nine serene islands in the Sea of Marmara where motor vehicles are banned, offering a nostalgic escape filled with grand Ottoman-era mansions, lush pine forests, and horse-free tranquil streets.

Step back in time with a ferry ride to the Princes’ Islands, Istanbul’s most unique district where the pace of life slows down to a crawl. Known locally as “Adalar,” this cluster of islands served as a place of exile for royalty during the Byzantine era and later became a beloved summer retreat for the city’s cosmopolitan elite. Today, it remains a car-free sanctuary where the only sounds you’ll hear are the ringing of bicycle bells and the gentle lapping of the Marmara Sea against the shore.

The district is comprised of four main inhabited islands—Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada—each with its own distinct personality. You can hike up to the hilltop Aya Yorgi Church for panoramic views on Büyükada, explore the prestigious Naval Academy and forest trails of Heybeliada, visit the museum-house of famous writer Sait Faik Abasıyanık on Burgazada, or enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Kınalıada. With their historic wooden villas (köşks) draped in purple bougainvillea and quaint seaside seafood restaurants, the islands provide a romantic and refreshing perspective of Istanbul that feels worlds away from the mainland.

The Princes’ Islands are the ultimate destination for those seeking nature, history, and a peaceful maritime atmosphere, making it Istanbul’s premier spot for a day of car-free exploration and seaside relaxation.

Rating: 4.8/5 stars
Price Range: $–$$$ (Ferry tickets are affordable; dining and bike rentals vary by island).
Business Hours: Accessible daily via ferry; most vibrant during daylight hours from 09:00 AM to sunset.