üyükada Travel Guide: Places to Visit, Historical Sites & Accommodation Tips

One of the places of impressive beauty; Büyükada

One of the places so stunning that it could be the subject of songs, poems, and even films is Büyükada. It's not just a getaway for Istanbulites in the spring and summer; it's an escape all year round. Büyükada is one of the most suitable places to listen to the sounds of the sea and nature. And if you want to experience old Istanbul while riding phaetons through cobblestone streets, then Büyükada is the perfect place for you.

Büyükada, the largest of the Princes Islands in the Marmara Sea, used to be called Prinkipos, which means "big" in Greek. Büyükada has been known as a lover's spot since ancient times.

Istanbulites don't only visit Büyükada in the summer; many locals and foreigners visit throughout the year, knowing that the island showcases its different beauties each season. Those seeking a bit more tranquility especially come in the autumn and winter months. However, even in these quieter seasons, the island can get crowded, especially on holidays.

How Many People Live in Büyükada?

Although the population of the island is around 7,000, during the spring and summer months, this number increases almost tenfold. Tourists and summer residents alike come to the island, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.

Located just a short ferry ride away from Istanbul, Büyükada is not only a preferred destination in the summer but also a popular choice for weekends in the spring and winter. Although it's a bit quieter in the autumn and winter compared to the summer season, the atmosphere and charm of the island are still enchanting.

What's Different About Büyükada?

Büyükada, where green and blue intertwine, is far from the noise of horns and cars. This is because the use of motor vehicles is prohibited on the island. You get around everywhere by bicycle, phaeton, or on foot. This way, you not only blend in with the streets and texture of the island but also listen to yourself. This is why when you think of Büyükada, romance and tranquility come to mind after nature.

What to Do in Büyükada?

When you arrive in Büyükada, you can rent a bicycle from one of the places on the square as soon as you set foot on land. If you enjoy walking, exploring the island on foot will make you even happier. Especially if you're there in the spring, you won't even notice the passing of time as you admire the colorful sights of trees, flowers, fruit trees, streets, and architectural styles. You can also take phaeton tours to explore the island.

Besides the streets, houses, and tea gardens, there are many other places to visit and see on the island. There are two hills on the island, one in the south called Yücetepe, and one in the north called İsatepe. You can climb up there and enjoy the magnificent views of the islands and Istanbul. You can also witness the sunset or sunrise.

At the highest peak of the island is the Monastery and Church of Saint George. The structure was built in the 6th century AD. While some remnants have collapsed and disappeared, others have survived to this day. This is one of the places visitors must see when they come to the island. According to Christian belief, those who walk up to Saint George on April 23rd and September 24th are considered pilgrims. Therefore, especially on these days, the number of visitors increases even more.

On İsa Hill, there is the Christ Church and the Greek Orphanage. You can also visit these places if you wish. There are four mosques on the island, and one of the most important ones is the Hamidiye Mosque, built by Sultan Abdulhamid II.

Depending on the weather when you visit Büyükada, you can have a picnic at the area known as Dil Burnu and even swim here if you want. However, this area is a bit rocky, so other beaches on the island might be more suitable for swimming. After having a picnic at Dil Burnu, you can also witness the sunset. It's one of the best places to watch the sunset.

The Adalar Museum, considered Istanbul's first contemporary city museum, is also among the places I recommend you to visit. Here, you can find hundreds of different objects, documents, and photographs that have survived from the formation of the islands to the present day and witness the history of the island. You can also find documentary footage and film recordings. It can be a different experience for those interested in history.

In addition to the places I've listed, you can also visit the House of Reşat Nuri Güntekin, Trotsky's House, the Fire Tower, the Clock Tower, and the Abraham Synagogue.

When evening comes, it's time to enjoy a rakı and fish meal at the fish restaurants by the sea. Fresh seasonal fish and various delicious mezes accompany your meal. You can be sure to spend beautiful moments with the views of the Bosphorus and the sea.

Where to Stay in Büyükada?

For those who want to stay on the island, there are plenty of options. Whether you prefer the hotels in the center or the facilities located a bit further back, you can stay in Büyükada. Of course, there are no large resorts on the island. All of the Büyükada hotels are charming boutique and small hotels. Many of Büyükada's boutique hotels have been opened by restoring buildings that were formerly used as mansions.

Regardless of which hotel you choose to stay in, they all provide high-quality and friendly service. The islanders are also very warm. You can find many things you need at island hotels. However, especially if you plan to come on the weekend, be sure to make a reservation before you arrive. You can also choose rooms with views of the Marmara Sea or the lush island.

Whether with your family or with your partner, you can easily come to the facilities. My recommendation is to prepare a romantic surprise for your partner and spend a holiday alone together. Moreover, in an atmosphere where you can embark on a journey through time like Büyükada.

Hotel Recommendation from Büyükada: Ada Palas Hotel Link to Ada Palas Hotel

If you still haven't visited Büyükada, you can start planning for the weekend now. For Büyükada hotels, click here: Link to Büyükada Hotels

9 Convincing Reasons to Live in Büyükada

Büyükada is one of the places that still keeps the island culture of our dreams alive with its nature, people, life and many other things. Istanbul Büyükada, which was once and still is the indispensable place of the world that many writers dream of, is frequented by visitors, especially in the spring and summer months. But there are those among us who want to live there instead of just looking at the island as a visitor and running away. There is no need to wait for years to pass and for you to grow old. Believe me, there are many reasons to live in a fairytale geography like Büyükada. Here are a few of them: 

1. If you're tired of the crowds and noise of the place you've been living in for a long time, Büyükada is just for you. Even as you approach the island, the sound of silence and the tranquility of the island and its people surround you. But alongside this tranquility, you can easily reach Istanbul and many other things you're looking for.
2. The historical houses, architecture, and warm relationships among the islanders will envelop you. People are genuine, close, and relationships are highly developed, just like in old books. Coming from a big city where you don't even know your neighbor in the apartment next door, you'll be amazed by the friendly neighborhood.
3. If you've made walking a lifestyle, Büyükada is a walking trail with its forests and slightly hilly roads. You can start your day by renewing yourself in the embrace of nature and taking in the energy of Mother Nature. Plus, everything on the island is within walking distance, making it easily accessible—a beautiful thing!
4. If you're a passionate cyclist but the chaos of the metropolis is not suitable for it, then Büyükada is waiting for you. It's one of the best places in our country to ride a bike. Quiet roads, without the discomfort of cars and exhaust fumes, make the roads yours and your best friend's! After a beautiful bike tour around the island, you can take a coffee break next to the church on the hill.
5. Büyükada is one of the best places to watch the sunset and sunrise. With your partner, you'll reach the pinnacle of romance, and we're not exaggerating when we say that every moment of the day, there are places on this island where you'll experience romantic moments waiting to be discovered.
6. The path to peace and happiness leads through delicious food. The island's delicious culinary culture is enhanced with fresh seasonal fish and a variety of olive oil dishes. You can enjoy fish accompanied by the shimmering sea view at the restaurants along the coast or, if you decide to live on the island, on the magnificent balcony of your home.
7. We don't know about you, but for us, reasons to live on Büyükada include everything from mastic ice cream to colorful and fruity ice creams! You can enjoy ice cream every day without getting bored on Büyükada. What more could you ask for?
8. In the summer months, you can enjoy the calm and clean sea and warm sands on its beaches. You can read your newspaper or book or even have a small backgammon tournament with your closest friend on the beach.
9. Its lush forests and nature make it ideal for picnics. You can take your basket and spread your mat in the green area or set up your hammock to enjoy the fresh air. The picnic areas designated by the municipality are ideal for spending time with your family and loved ones.

Your Büyükada Travel Program is Ready, Let's Get Started!

Büyükada, with its unique architecture, bougainvillea-covered mansions, and lush greenery, is truly one of the most enchanting islands to explore. The moment you step onto the island, its atmosphere transports you to a completely different world. So, let’s begin our journey…

• You can start by visiting Aya Yorgi Church and Monastery, located at the island’s highest point. According to belief, those who climb up here on foot will have their wishes granted. This church is the only one in Turkey recognized by the archbishopric, and its history goes back to the 12th century. While exploring the church and monastery, you’ll also come across historical artifacts. And of course, the most breathtaking views of Istanbul and the surrounding islands can be seen from here. Right next to it, you’ll find Yücetepe Kır Gazinosu, a traditional tavern.
• Another fascinating stop is Rahibe Kayası (“The Nun’s Rock”). The shapes of the rocks here are said to resemble people and animals. According to legend, Euphrosyne, daughter of Constantinus VI, was locked away at the Women’s Monastery here when she was just seven years old. Unable to bear the longing for Istanbul, she eventually turned to stone.
• Head to Isa Hill where you can visit the Hristos Monastery and the Greek Orphanage. Though in ruins today, the orphanage still holds the title of being one of the largest wooden monoblock structures in the world.
• Other religious and historical landmarks worth seeing include Ayios Dimitrios Church and Hamidiye Mosque.
• Literature lovers shouldn’t miss Reşat Nuri Güntekin Mansion. This elegant two-story, garden-fronted house with pink-framed windows faces Sedef Island and was home to the famous Turkish novelist for many years. Today it serves as a museum, where many of his works were written, and has become one of Büyükada’s most-visited cultural spots.
• A must-see is also the Islands Museum (Adalar Müzesi), Istanbul’s first contemporary city museum. Here, the story of the islands is told through hundreds of objects, 20,000 documents, 6,000 photographs, films, oral histories, and archival footage. You can even see a replica of the “armored fish” that lived in these seas 400 million years ago, as well as fossils of a squid-like creature dating back 385 million years.

🚲 If walking feels too slow, you can rent a bicycle to explore the island more comfortably.

Other places you might want to add to your Büyükada itinerary include:

• Mizzi Mansion
• Con Pasha Mansion
• Trotsky House
• Lovers’ Road
• Büyükada Greek Orphanage
• Dilburnu Nature Park
• Istanbul Büyükada Literature Museum & Library
• Azaryan Mansion
• Fabiato Mansion
• Izzet Pasha Mansion
• Yalman Mansion
• Mazlum Bey Mansion
• Kuyumcuyan Mansion
• Meziki Mansion (now a hotel)
• Anadolu Club

Hotels & Accommodation in Büyükada

There are some wonderful boutique hotels on the island where you can enjoy a truly memorable stay. For more details, check out the Büyükada Hotels link. And when you get there, don’t forget to say hello from us!

A favorite option is Ada Palas Hotel, which also has a lovely restaurant.

Getting around the island is easy with electric buses and taxis. You’ll need an Istanbulkart to use them.

How to Get to Büyükada?

You can take ferries from Kabataş, Kadıköy, or Bostancı, choosing from Şehir Hatları, Turyol, or Mavi Marmara lines.

• Food & Drink Recommendations in Büyükada
• For ice cream: Don’t miss the legendary Tarihi Prinkipo Dondurmacısı.
• At Büyükada Pastanesi, try the mastic, cinnamon, and Turkish delight cookies.
• Tiara Restaurant
• Eskibağ Terrace Restaurant (perfect for sunset)
• Loc’Ada by the sea
• Milto Restaurant, a classic by the pier
• For coffee and snacks: Giatres Brasserie
• For cakes and sweets: Dolci Cafe Patisserie
• And if the weather is beautiful, don’t miss my all-time favorites on nearby Sedef Island: Elio Sedef and Liya Restaurant.