Hiking The Prince Islands

• Meet at 08:15 at Karaköy Ferry Terminal.
• Take the sea-taxi to Büyükada. (45 min)
• After short tea-coffee break, start hiking through the memory lane till the pine trail starts.
• Reach the Hristos (Christ) Hill and the Aya Yorgi (St. George) Hill via the Old Orphanage (largest wooden structure in Europe, second in the world)
• Lunch break at Aya Yorgi Hill.
• Descent to the north side of the island and visit Aya Nikola (St. Nicholas).
• Walk back to the main square stopping at the Islands Museum.
• Depending our pace, we may have free time before we take the sea-taxi back to Karaköy.

• Car-Free Environment: One of the most unique features of the Prince Islands is that motorized vehicles are prohibited on the islands. This creates a peaceful and serene atmosphere, where the main modes of transportation are bicycles and horse-drawn carriages. The absence of cars and traffic contributes to a relaxed and stress-free environment.
• Historic Architecture: The islands boast a rich history dating back to ancient times and are home to a variety of architectural gems. Visitors can explore Ottoman-era mansions, picturesque wooden houses, and historical landmarks like churches, monasteries, and mosques.
• Natural Beauty: The Prince Islands are blessed with natural beauty, featuring lush forests, olive groves, and pristine beaches. The islands’ landscapes are perfect for leisurely walks and hiking, providing opportunities to connect with nature.
• Escaping the City: For Istanbul residents, the Prince Islands offer an escape from the bustling city life. Locals often visit the islands on weekends to enjoy a relaxing day or weekend getaway in a tranquil setting.
• Cultural Heritage: Each island has its own cultural identity and unique attractions. Büyükada, the largest island, is famous for its historical buildings and charming streets. Heybeliada is known for its religious sites, including the Halki Seminary. Burgazada and Kınalıada are smaller and quieter, offering a more secluded atmosphere.
• Summer Resorts: In the 19th century, the islands became popular summer resorts for Istanbul’s elite and foreign dignitaries. Many old wooden mansions and villas from that era still stand, adding to the islands’ historical significance.
• Ecotourism and Outdoor Activities: The car-free environment and natural beauty make the islands ideal for ecotourism and various outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and swimming.
• Cultural Events: The Prince Islands host various cultural events, including art exhibitions, music festivals, and theater performances, attracting artists and art enthusiasts from all over.

Prince Island Hiking routes is a project which was created by the Istanbul Chamber of Guides (IRO) in coordination with Istanbul Tourism Platform, a body of IMM (Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality). The Monumental Trees content was provided by the IMM Directorate of Parks, Gardens, and Green Areas, and the cultural heritage content by the IMM Cultural Heritage Department.

As part of our sustainable tourism efforts, we aim to minimize the negative impact of visitor density on natural life and tranquility in the Islands. Our goal is to protect their natural beauty and maintain the cultural fabric.

To make tourism on the Islands sustainable and ensure the continuity of natural areas, please:

• Avoid behaviors that could harm trees, flowers, other plants, and animals.
• Refrain from playing loud music, shouting, and other similar actions to maintain silence in the surroundings.
• Reduce your carbon footprint by avoiding unnecessary plastic packaging and making sure to dispose of your packaging waste in recycling stations.
• Remember the presence of the people living here during your visits and interact harmoniously with other visitors and the local community.

This trip is enjoyable year-round, as each season offers its unique charm. In spring, the mountains are covered with wildflowers. Autumn is the perfect time to pick ripe fruits directly from the trees. In winter, you can enjoy peaceful walks in cooler weather and warm up by a cozy wood fire near the Church Of St. George.

For anyone who enjoys escaping the hustle and bustle of a big metropolis, and has a passion for both hiking and culture, and keep the carbon footprint low, this trip is perfect. After spending a few days exploring the major historic sites of Istanbul, you’ll appreciate this trip even more. It offers a refreshing escape into nature and culture, providing a perfect balance to your city experience.

We will take the water taxi provided by IMM(Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality), which takes 45 minutes and allows us to enjoy the island for the whole day starting as early as 09:00 am. Public ferries 2 hours each way.

• This tour is rewarding all year round. Make sure you are dressed season-appropriate.
• Comfortable shoes. Best, hiking boots with ankle support.
• Suntan lotion.
• Hat.
• Please follow the weather forecast. Bring a raincoat if necessary.
• Bringing your personal water bottle will decrease your carbon footprint.

We meet at 08:15 in front of the Karaköy Ferry Terminal. Please find your guide carrying the Hike’n Sail sign.