Planning a trip to Buyukada but overwhelmed by confusing ferry schedules and transportation options? It’s easy to get lost in the details, wasting time and energy navigating Istanbul’s ferry routes. Don’t worry—there’s a simpler way to reach this picturesque island without hassle. This guide will walk you through every transport option, from public ferries to private boats, ensuring you enjoy a seamless and stress-free journey to Buyukada, the largest and central island of Istanbul’s Princes’ Islands.
Key Takeaways
- Public Ferries are the most affordable and convenient way to reach Buyukada, with frequent departures from Eminönü, Kabataş, and Kadıköy.
- Motorboats and Private Boats offer faster and more flexible alternatives, ideal for those looking for a quicker or more exclusive journey.
- No Cars Allowed on Buyukada, so visitors can explore the island by foot, bicycle, or electric bus for a peaceful experience.
- Best Time to Visit is during spring or autumn to avoid summer crowds and enjoy mild weather.
- Top Attractions include Aya Yorgi Church, Adalar Museum, and cycling around the island.
How do you get to Buyukada, Princes’ Islands?
To get to Buyukada, the largest of the Princes’ Islands, you can take public ferries from Istanbul’s main ports, including Eminönü, Kabataş, and Kadıköy. Public ferries are the most affordable option, and the journey taking 50-100 minutes depending on the departure point. Alternatively, faster motorboats or private boats are available from Bostancı and Kartal.
General Overview
One option is the public ferry lines, and the other is passenger boats and motorboats. Additionally, during the summer months, there are shuttle services with special boats for reserved customers of the beach clubs located on the islands from Bostanci and Kartal neighborhoods.
Traveling to Buyukada by ferry and boats takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from Eminonu, 1 hour and 30 minutes from Kabatas, 1 hour and 45 minutes from Besiktas, and 25-30 minutes from Bostanci and Kartal.
Motorboats travel slightly faster than city line ferries and reach the islands about 10-15 minutes earlier.
For those who get seasick or find long sea journeys boring, we recommend traveling to Buyukada from Bostanci or Kartal.
Public Ferry Options to Buyukada
Ferries are the most common and affordable way to get to Buyukada, the largest of the Princes’ Islands. There are several ferry providers offering regular routes, including Şehir Hatları, TurYol, and Mavi Marmara, all departing from both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
You can directly reach Buyukada from Beşiktaş, Kabataş, Eminönü, Kadıköy, and Bostancı with the public ferry lines.
Main Departure Points:
- Eminönü: Takes around 100 minutes, stopping at multiple islands along the way.
- Kabataş: Approximately 75 minutes to Buyukada.
- Kadıköy (Asian side): Perfect for those staying in Kadıköy; the ferry takes around 50 minutes.
Seasonal Schedule:
Ferry schedules vary slightly depending on the time of year, with more frequent departures during summer months. Please cross check sehirhatlari.istanbul for all routes, timetables and prices.
Tip: Ferries tend to get crowded, especially on weekends. To avoid long waits, aim to catch a morning ferry and arrive at least 30 minutes early.
Wanna learn more about How to Use Public Ferries?
Alternative Transport: Motorboats and Private Boats
If you’re short on time or prefer a more exclusive experience, consider taking a motorboat or private boat to Buyukada. While pricier than public ferries, these options offer speed and flexibility.
Motorboats:
Several companies, such as Mavi Marmara and Prenstur, offer faster motorboat rides to the islands.
- These boats leave from Bostancı or Kartal, with trips taking just 30-40 minutes.
Mavi Marmara Boats
With Mavi Marmara motorboats, you can directly reach Büyükada from Eminönü, Yeşilköy, Beşiktaş, Kabataş, and Bostancı.
You can see the current schedules and times at mavimarmara.net
Dentur Avrasya Boats
With Dentur Avrasya motorboats, you can directly reach Büyükada from Eminönü, Beşiktaş, Kabataş, Avcılar, and Yalova.
Services from Beşiktaş, Kabataş, Eminönü, and Avcılar run daily.
Services from Yalova run on Saturdays and Sundays.
You can see the current schedules and times at denturavrasya.com
Prenstur Boats
Prenstur motorboats operate daily shuttle services between Kartal-Büyükada-Heybeliada. The journey from Kartal to Büyükada takes approximately 25-30 minutes, and to Heybeliada takes 30-35 minutes.
You can see the current schedules and times at prenstur.net
Private Boats:
For those seeking a more luxurious journey, private boats are available for hire from multiple points in Istanbul, including Beşiktaş and Kabataş. Prices vary depending on the boat type and group size.
Tip: Private boats are ideal if you’re traveling in a group or want to enjoy a more scenic, customized trip.
Private Boats Advice
Getting to Buyukada from Key Areas
No matter where you’re staying in Istanbul, there’s a convenient way to reach Buyukada. Here’s a quick guide on how to get there from the city’s main districts:
From Taksim and Sultanahmet:
- Eminönü Ferry Terminal is the closest, reachable by tram (T1 line) or bus. Ferries depart every 30-60 minutes during peak times.
From Kadıköy:
- Kadıköy Ferry Terminal offers the shortest and quickest routes to the Princes’ Islands. The trip to Buyukada takes about 50 minutes, and ferries leave roughly every hour.
From Beşiktaş and Levent:
- Head to Kabataş Ferry Terminal for direct routes to the islands. You can take the F1 funicular from Taksim to Kabataş, or buses that connect to the ferry station.
Tip: If you’re near the Asian side, such as Bostancı or Kartal, ferries and motorboats from these points are faster and less crowded than those departing from the European side.
What to Do on Buyukada
Once you arrive, Buyukada offers a peaceful retreat away from Istanbul’s hustle and bustle. Cars are banned on the island, so the best way to get around is by foot, bicycle, or electric bus.
Top Attractions:
- Aya Yorgi Church: Located at the top of Aya Yorgi Hill, this historic church offers breathtaking views of the island and surrounding sea.
- Adalar Museum: Learn about the history of the Princes’ Islands through interactive exhibits.
- Leon Trotsky’s Mansion: Explore the remains of the house where the famous Russian revolutionary spent part of his exile.
Fun Activities:
- Cycling: Rent a bicycle for around 30 TL and explore the island’s picturesque streets and scenic coastline.
- Shopping: Wander through quaint shops offering unique local goods and handmade crafts.
- Dining: Don’t miss out on the island’s charming cafes and seafood restaurants, which offer fresh dishes with a view.
Tip: Aim to visit Aya Yorgi Church during sunset for the best views.
Practical Tips and Best Times to Visit
Best Time to Visit:
- Spring and Autumn are ideal times to visit Buyukada. The weather is mild, and the island isn’t as crowded as it can be in the summer months.
Avoiding Crowds:
- Weekends, especially during the summer, can be packed with both locals and tourists. If possible, plan your trip for a weekday.
Packing Essentials:
- Bring a light jacket as it can get windy on the ferry, and don’t forget sunscreen for the sunny island.
Tip: If you’re traveling in the summer, pack swimwear and take advantage of Buyukada’s beaches, like Naki Bey Beach.
Day Trip Itinerary
Here’s a suggested itinerary for a perfect day trip to Buyukada:
- Morning Ferry: Take the 9 AM ferry from Kabataş or Kadıköy.
- Cycling Tour: Rent a bike and explore the island’s landmarks, including Aya Yorgi Church.
- Lunch: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the island’s waterfront restaurants.
- Afternoon Beach Time: Spend the afternoon relaxing at a local beach.
- Evening Ferry: Head back to Istanbul on the 6 PM ferry, enjoying sunset views along the way.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Buyukada?
The best time to visit Buyukada is in the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) when the weather is pleasant, and the island is less crowded. Summer can be busy with tourists, especially on weekends, so visiting on a weekday is ideal for a peaceful experience.
Why are there no cars on Buyukada?
Cars are banned on Buyukada to preserve the island’s tranquil environment and reduce air pollution. Visitors explore the island by walking, cycling, or using electric buses, allowing for a quieter, more relaxed experience.
Where can I catch a ferry to Buyukada?
You can catch a ferry to Buyukada from several major ferry terminals in Istanbul, including Eminönü, Kabataş, Beşiktaş, and Kadıköy. Ferries are available on both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
What should I do on Buyukada?
On Buyukada, you can visit historic sites like Aya Yorgi Church, explore the island on a bicycle, or relax at one of the local beaches. There are also quaint cafes and shops where you can enjoy local delicacies and shop for unique souvenirs.
How long is the ferry ride from Istanbul to Buyukada?
The ferry ride from Istanbul to Buyukada takes approximately 50-100 minutes, depending on the route and departure point. Ferries from Kadıköy and Bostancı are quicker, while those from Eminönü and Kabataş may take longer due to additional stops.
Who can visit Buyukada?
Buyukada is open to all visitors, from tourists to locals, and is accessible via public ferries, motorboats, or private boats. The island is a popular destination for day trips, offering historical sites, peaceful landscapes, and recreational activities.
What are the ferry timings to Buyukada?
Ferries to Buyukada run frequently from early morning (around 7 AM) until late evening (11 PM). The schedule can vary depending on the season, so it’s best to check the operator’s website for the most up-to-date timings.