Istanbul to Princes' Islands Ferry Tickets

A Short Crossing to a Car-Free Island

The ferry to the Princes' Islands leaves from Kabataş, on the European shore near Dolmabahçe, and crosses open water to Büyükada, the largest of the islands scattered across this stretch of the Marmara. Unlike the longer ferries that carry vehicles toward Bursa or Yalova, this is a passenger-only crossing built for a day trip rather than a road journey, and no cars are allowed on the island itself once you arrive. The change is immediate: engine noise gives way to the sound of hooves and bicycle bells, and the pace of the whole visit slows down from the moment the ferry docks.

Getting Around Büyükada

Büyükada keeps its streets free of cars altogether, so getting from the pier to the pine hills or the monastery means choosing between a bicycle, a horse-drawn carriage or simply walking at your own pace. The harbour area is compact and easy to walk, while the pine-covered hills further inland and the hilltop monastery are usually reached by bicycle or carriage instead. Rental bicycles are widely available near the harbour, and carriages line up close to the ferry pier for those who would rather sit back and let someone else set the pace around the island's quiet lanes.

Mansions, Gardens and the Seafront

Büyükada's streets are lined with large wooden mansions built in the late Ottoman period, many still privately owned and kept in their original style, giving the island a distinct architectural character unlike anywhere on the mainland. Gardens spill over low fences onto the pavement in summer, and the quieter backstreets away from the harbour offer a genuinely different pace from central Istanbul. Along the seafront, restaurants serve the day's catch with a view back across the water, and tea gardens fill through the afternoon with visitors watching the ferries come and go.

Who Enjoys This Trip

This crossing suits families looking for an easy day out that does not involve a long drive, couples wanting a quiet afternoon away from the city centre, and anyone curious about a side of Istanbul that has nothing to do with mosques or bazaars. It works well as a half-day or full-day addition to a longer Istanbul stay, and the short sailing time makes it manageable even for visitors with only a few days in the city. Travellers looking for a longer sea journey or a link toward another city should look instead at the Bursa, Yalova or Bandırma crossings.

Boarding at Kabataş

The Kabataş terminal sits close to the tram line and within easy reach of Dolmabahçe Palace, making it a simple add-on to a morning already spent in the area. Passengers check in and board without the vehicle queues seen at the car ferry terminals, since this is a foot-passenger route only. It is worth carrying sun protection and comfortable walking shoes, since the island is best explored outdoors, and a light layer for the open deck on the crossing itself, which can feel breezy even on a warm day.

Booking the Islands Trip With Haqqi Tours

Once the ferry itself is arranged, the same Haqqi Tours booking can be extended to cover a guide who narrates Büyükada's mansions and viewpoints, or a private carriage set aside for your party for the day. The full arrangement and its price are confirmed in writing before payment, and the WhatsApp desk answers in Arabic and English throughout the day, which is useful for families coordinating timings with children or older relatives. The trip pairs easily with an Istanbul city tour on the same visit, booked through the same desk.