Island Time on the Prince's Islands

Living in a crowded city can sometimes be overwhelming. Istanbul is unique in that a relaxing, beach-side getaway is less than an hour away. With ferries (vapur) setting off from Eminönü, Kadiköy, Beşiktaş, and Bostancı each day for the Prince's Islands (Adalar), you can be chilling with the sun in your face and the waves at your feet in no time.

Istanbul sits along the Marmara Sea, and there are several large islands within sight of the big city. There are 4 islands that you can choose from: Kinaliada, Burgazada, Heybeliada, and Buyukada. Most recently, I picnicked on Burgazada with some friends, and I have also really enjoyed taking trips to Buyukada, the largest island of them all. Each of the islands is unique in their own way, and it is an adventure in itself to visit each one and see what it is like.

Here are some things that the islands are famous for:

1. Buyukada has an old monastery at the very top of it. With a steep climb, this is accessible by walking for the brave of heart and foot. There are also horse-drawn carriages that you can take, or bikes that you can rent. The view from the monastery is gorgeous, and you can also walk into its tiny chapel and look at the icons.
2. The islands have small beaches where you can pay a fee for a chair and an umbrella and a water-side spot. There are also places where you can go swimming for free (think little ladders straight into the cool sea). Besides, although the beaches are not luxurious, they do give you the restful wave-time that you seek.
3. On Buyukada, there are picnic areas where you can spend time with your friends and your favorite picnic foods. There are grocery stores on both Buyukada and Burgazada, so no need to carry too much food on your journey.
4. Going to the islands gives you the wonderful chance of a long (45 min - 1. 5 hours) ferry ride. Taking ferries is one of my favorite parts of living in Istanbul, and if you go to the islands with friends, this is the perfect time to enjoy the view, play games, and take photos.
5. All the islands I have been on so far have ice cream. With three small scoops at 5 TL, this is a must for your beach-time.
6. The islands are car-free (except for trash trucks). Enjoy not having to battle traffic! But the bikes and horse-drawn carriages are allowed.
7. Beautiful, traditional homes fill the islands, and a walk through the "neighborhood" is a great way to spend some time.

When you have a weekend free, hop a ferry with some friends and hit the islands! You will come back refreshed, sun-tanned, and ready to take on your next week of study.

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