Planning a stay or a day trip to the Island of Büyükada? This guide has got you covered.
I left Büyükada with, contrite.
I knew as soon as I arrived in Istanbul in mid-July, the season wasn’t a good fit for my travel style.
It makes discovering islands like Büyükada less enjoyable. In the heat, I anticipated enduring the overly crowded and overly commercialized scenes, especially after much of my travels have been during off-seasons and in the cooler months. The only silver lining is that it encouraged me to leave our base in Beyoğlu in search of daily adventures and intrigue.
In Büyükada, if you’re halfway fit, hiring a bicycle is quite the best way to go about. But if cycling in the heat is not appealing, or if cycling in general is not your preference, try an electric vehicle or tricycle. This is the next best way to explore the best of Büyükada. It’s a no car zone throughout the entire island. You’ll be pleased to find that it is rather pleasant to explore the island with silence. All you hear are chatter from travelers and their footsteps.
How to get to Büyükada?
Situated roughly 20 kilometers from the city center of Istanbul, Büyükada is one of the largest Princes’ Islands in the Sea of Marmara. Since it is an island and is not part of mainland Istanbul, it is only accessible by ferry. It is far from an undiscovered paradise. Yet, it remains an unmissable day trip from several key ports in Istanbul. It can also be a refreshing 45-minute to an hour voyage.
The main ports to the island of Büyükada are:
Eminönü / From this port, a direct ferry service operates daily. This makes it an ideal choice for travelers.
Kabataş / Ferries depart from here to Büyükada. It’s easily accessible by tram from various parts of the city.
Beşiktaş / This port doesn’t just offer ferry services to Büyükada, but also has ferry services to other Princes’ Islands.
Kadıköy / If you are from the Asian side of Istanbul, you can take a ferry from Kadıköy. This service provides a convenient way to travel.
Bostancı / This port also offers ferry services with connections to Büyükada.
Maltepe / This port has less frequent ferry services. However, the available services can be an alternative way to get to Büyükada.
Know | It’s recommended to get the Istanbulkart Card. Price of the card is TRY 130 or RM 16.51 (does not include credit). I recommend to add TRY 200 for at least 10 rides on any public transportation i.e. bus, trams and ferries. It also has a 7-day validity period.
1. Visit Aya Yorgi Church (St. George Monastery)
In the 6th Century, Büyükada was known for its monasteries and churches. This was the time of the Byzantine era. Famous buildings on the island, including this one, were mostly built by Byzantine emperors. This church sits on the hills overlooking the sea. Even with the inevitable uphill hike, you will find it to be one of the best historical sites you visit on this island.
Know | Admission is free. However, it closes at 4 pm every day. So I recommend you just time it right so you can give yourself time to walk up the hills at your own pace and enjoy the views.
It takes about 20 minutes to walk up, with a couple of stops to catch your breath. If you’re not in great shape or need mobility assistance, this climb could be a challenge.
Do / A more popular activity at Aya Yorgi is to watch the dramatic sunset from the hilltop. You can see a panoramic view of Marmara Sea glistening in the light of the setting. You’ll also be able to see smaller islands dotting the horizon.
Tips for a Memorable Sunset Experience in Büyükada
Timing / Arrive at least one hour before the sunset so you can find the best spot. Don’t forget to check the sunset time for that day
What to Bring? / Bring shoes that are comfortable for the hike. Also, take a water bottle. Carry a light jacket as it can get rather breezy.
Picnic / Consider packing snacks for a short picnic while enjoying the sunset and stay a while to indulge in the serene atmosphere after the sun has set and when the first star appears. It can be quite unforgettable.
Where | Find it here on Google Maps
2. Lunch at Yücetepe Restoran & Kafe with Ocean Views
Bonus points for the restaurant and café for being next to the Aya Yorgi Church. If you’re already at Aya Yorgi Church, it makes sense to make time for lunch here. The restaurant has been in operation since 1978 and are still going strong. This is not an upscale restaurant. However, it’s a nice, simple, and rustic eatery; offering the usual Turkish staples like kofte or meatballs. Yücetepe also provides a photogenic panoramic backdrop of the Marmara Sea and the surrounding islands.
Where | Find it here on Google Maps
3. Marvel at stunning mansions
Yirmiüç Nisan Street
Unfortunately, I did not get to visit this street because of timing. They’re nestled so nicely on the hills, so much so I got to capture some of these mansions and admire them from the ferry.
Depending on your physical condition, your footwear or time of the day, you can opt to rent a bike to explore Yirmiüç Nisan Street. You can also hop on an electric vehicle. Both can be fun, and it’s an Eco-friendly way to get around.
The two most iconic mansions you can visit are Splendid Hotel and the Anatolian Club. Some reviewers find that the Splendid Palas Hotel is not very hospitable, and recommended not staying overnight. But if you’re curious, you can still walk into the lobby to experience being transported back to the 1920s with the grand piano, red curtains and elegant art drawing you in.
The Anatolian Club on the other hand is where the posh hangs out. It’s also reflected in its luxurious ambiance of eastern influences mixed with European architecture. It was founded by Kazim Pasha a retired Ottoman army and was designed by Alexandre Vallaury, a French architect.
Do | Some streets leading up to the Anatolian Club have clear sight lines for some photography opportunity of the club. However, another option is by taking a boat tour around Büyükada. It offers a fantastic vantage point of the club from the water, allowing you to capture the club’s architecture against a stunning backdrop of the island’s natural beauty.
Where | Find here on Google Maps
4. Eat Like a Local
Plan your own DIY Büyükada Food Tour
In realizing that not everyone is into discovering scenic views at every new place, and would rather explore the place by igniting their taste buds. So what are some of the must-try places to eat in Büyükada you ask? Here’s a list, but be warned though because this list is not for everyone.
- Altın Fıç / If you’re looking for some adventurous bites and don’t mind all things fried, then you’re in for a treat. Fıç is located in the Büyükada market and serves up dishes like deep fried mussels (midye tava), grilled sheep intestines sandwich (kokoreç) and french fries. It’s also perfect for those looking for a quick bite while waiting for the ferry. Find it here on Google Maps
- Yalovalı / This deli market (sarküteri) is also located within the bazaar. While they do serve the island’s signature dish —the potatoes croquette, it’s not the best place to sample it. I’d only recommend getting grocery supplies or nick knacks here. Find it here on Google Maps
- Büyükada Pastanesi / This is where you can get the best version of the potatoes crocquette on the island. Since it’s a bakery, they serve delicious pastries too. Try the Poğaça with smoked eggplant. The cream borek is a version of the Galaktoboureko —a Greek Desert. This bakery is also a good breakfast spot. Find it here on Google Maps
- Fıstık Ahmet’s Place Prinkipo Restaurant / Here you can try their ice cream. This eatery is known as one of the island’s class and if you’re looking for the perfect island vibe combined with tasty seafood, then this place is just right for you. While it’s one of my top choice, it’s also a little bit further away than the ferry terminal. Find it on Google Maps
- Milto / If the tourist crowd is not a concern, there are several seafood restaurants by the shore you can try. Cost and quality are about equally the same so I went ahead and chose Milto for you. Find it here on Google Maps
- Eskibağ Teras Restaurant / Another island gem you must try. Now if you’re exploring the island with bikes, I recommend this restaurant for dinner or even lunch if you like. You’ll not only get a panoramic view of the sea, but enjoying it with freshly cooked de-boned fish is quite an experience. Find it here on Google Maps
- Lale Büfe / Up until recent years, one of the best things to do in Büyükada was to go watch a movie at Lale Open Air Cinema, but that’s no longer open. Next to it however is Lale Büfe. They’re known for their roasted sweet and salted toast and their roasted cheddar chocolate toast. Find it here on Google Maps.
5. Stroll the streets of Çankaya
Whether you’re exploring this street with a bike, riding on an electric vehicle or on foot, it’s your chance to take the opportunity to ride through Çankaya Street and admire the stunning seaside residences. The street is lined with trees which adds to the peaceful vibe but its famous mansions brings you back to the late Ottoman period.
Know / Keep in mind that some mansions along streets like Çankaya and even Nizam may show signs of wear with rundown exteriors and faded facades. Though that may be the case, their aging appearances tells stories of the past, resilience and even forgotten grandeur. Besides the mansions, the street also offers a mix of traditional and modern experiences, with shops, cafes and street vendors.
Do / For more engaging experience continue your stroll to Nizam Street.
Find the street here on Google Maps.
6. Visit the Museum of the Princes’ Islands
As you explore the island, you’ll notice architecture and cultural footprints that are different than the Turkish culture. Architecture like the wooden mansions and a monestary like the Aya Yorgi is actually a poignant reminder; left behind by the once-thriving presence of the Greek community.
If you’re interested, you can visit the museum to find a rich history with touching stories about the Greek expulsions that took place on the island in 1964 – 1965. Though that part of the island’s history is not the only thing to learn about, the museum provides informative videos about how the island wasn’t always an island. Once upon a time, cats were able to walk from the mainlands to the islands without getting wet. This was possible because 370 years ago islands and lands were moving frequently.
You’ll also find artifacts and object pieces that show remnants of the past from the island.
Know / The entrance fee to the museum is ranging from 50 – 100 Turkish Lira.
Find it here in Google Maps
Accomodation in Büyükada
Given the island’s relaxing and calm vibe (especially considering the rampant mass tourism just 45 minutes away across the water in mainland Istanbul, it’s not surprising that many visitors choose to base overnight in Büyükada.
Staying overnight allows you to enjoy and experience the island in a more relaxed and tranquil way especially when it can get very busy with day-trippers during the day.
There’s not a huge amount of options available but what’s on offer is of decent quality and caters to everyone from budget-friendly to mid-range holiday makers and luxury travelers.
Budget-Friendly / Both are great options for those who are budget conscious but don’t fancy a hostel, Büyükada Apart Hotel – Yeni Apart and Masal Hotel. The former offers a spacious option equipped with a large living room and kitchen. It’s also situated on a quiet street yet close enough to the main ferry port. The latter on the other hand offers colorful rooms with basic amenities like air conditioning and free WI-FI. It’s also conveniently located near popular cafes and restaurants, and is near the promenade.
Mid-Range / Cenar Konak Butik Hotel is located just 14 minutes away from the Blue Beach. One of it’s outstanding features is that it offers an express check-in and check-out. Just a 14 minutes walk is Naki Bey Beach. With affordable mid-range rates, you get to enjoy modern rooms, garden and a cozy terrace where you can enjoy breakfast.
Aya Butik Otel is a really cute boutique-style property with quaintly decorated rooms. Some rooms comes with a kitchen, equipped with a fridge and a minibar. It’s nicely located 5 minutes away from the main square and just a quick walk from the ferry, making it another good mid-range accomodation option in Büyükada.
Luxury / Synonymous with luxury in Büyükada, is the outstanding historical Splendid Palace Hotel. It has a mix of old-world charm and modern comfort, an “art nouveau” atmosphere— as if stepping back into the 1920’s. They offer different types of room ranging from ‘Suites’ to ‘Deluxe Doubles’ with a sea view and a family room with a balcony. All rooms includes breakfast and are all equipped with a coffee machine.
Service is exceptional so expect to pay at least RM 1,000 a night in high seasons.
Mansion Miliá technically falls in the luxury bracket (from RM 424 per night in high season). In comparison to Splendid Palace Hotel, Mansion Miliá offers high-end amenities, quality rooms that includes breakfast, gardens and balconies which adds to its tranquil atmosphere. All with a much lower price tag.
If you’re planning to explore Istanbul but not sure where to stay, I’ve shared more details and advice on affordable accommodation options in Istanbul.
Plan | 10 Wonderful Things to do In Istanbul
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