How to get Round-Trip Ferry Tickets to Princes Islands in Istanbul

Are you looking for a fun and unique way to explore Istanbul? Whether you’re a lifelong locals or a first-time visitor, you should consider taking a trip to the gorgeous Princes Islands. These islands, some of the most beautiful spots in Turkey, offer the perfect escape for a day or two – and you can even get a round-trip ferry ticket to get there! The city of Istanbul and its beautiful surrounding islands are connected by ferry routes – with the most famous being the Princes Islands. This collection of nine islands is located in the Sea of Marmara, making it the perfect destination for a day trip or longer stay. Here, you’ll find lush forests, old monasteries and churches, ornate Ottoman mansions, and secluded beaches. Plus, with its crystal-clear turquoise waters, convenient ferries, and holiday villages, this is one of the most popular destinations in Turkey.Getting around the Princes Islands isn’t too difficult, but you do need to know the right places to buy tickets for the ferries. Thankfully, booking a round-trip ferry ticket to the islands couldn’t be easier! Here’s how:

Which Ports Have Round-Trip Tickets to the Princes Islands?

The two ports that offer ferries to and from the Princes Islands are located in Istanbul: Kabataş and Bostancı. Both have both regular boat and fast ferry services available (the regular boats are slightly slower but much cheaper), so you’re sure to find a transportation option that works for you. Kabataş is the main port for trips to the islands; it offers multiple services every day and is located close to the city center. Bostancı is on the Asian side of Istanbul and is a bit farther from the city center – but it’s still an easy journey by bus or metro.

How and Where to Purchase Round-Trip Tickets

Once you’ve chosen your port of departure, it’s time to purchase your round-trip ticket! The easiest (and safest) way to do this is to book your tickets in advance. You can do this online or at any of the ticket offices at either port. Before you buy your ticket, you should check the times of the departure and return ferry services; remember that both Kabataş and Bostancı have regular services running all throughout the day, but they are much less frequent after sundown. It’s always a good idea to double-check the times and be sure that you’ll be able to make it back in time! The cost of tickets is really reasonable – with fares averaging around $5 one-way (or approximately around 50 Turkish lira). Prices vary depending on how far from the city center your port of departure is located – so keep in mind that if your departure port is closer to the city center, then the ticket may be slightly more expensive.

Where to Go When You Arrive at the Princes Islands

The Princes Islands themselves make for an amazing day trip – considered some of Turkey’s loveliest spots, these islands offer plenty of sights and activities to enjoy. Here are some of our favorite picks:

• Visit Burgazada – This is the second-largest island in the archipelago and is renowned for its stunning beaches and rich birdlife. Plus, its shoreline offers plenty of quaint cafes, bars, and restaurants that make for perfect pitstops.
• Explore Heybeliada – The biggest island, Heybeliada holds a wealth of historical sites within its boundaries, as well as some incredible spots for swimming and water sports.
• Discover Buyukada – Buyukada is known as one of Istanbul’s most beautiful islands; visitors flock here for its beaches, forest walks, fresh seafood restaurants, and charming Ottoman architecture.

You can easily get around each island by horse-drawn carriage or bike. Plus, there are decent bus services connecting different settlements on each island. When it’s time to leave, just head back to your port of departure – many ferries run until late at night, so you don’t have to worry about catching an early one back into Istanbul.

So Should You Get Round-Trip Tickets?

If you want to explore some of Turkey’s most beautiful islands without any hassles, then round-trip tickets are definitely worth booking – it’s much safer and much more convenient. Plus, they’re relatively inexpensive too! And with each of the ports offering ferry services throughout the day, you can really make a day trip out of it and have plenty of time on each island. Why not get started right now? Book your round-trip tickets today with GetYourGuide, and have an incredible adventure exploring Istanbul’s wonderful Princes Islands!