Why You Should Visit the Princes' Islands in Winter

The Summer Chaos

The Princes' Islands (Adalar), an archipelago in the Sea of Marmara, are Istanbul's most famous summer escape. Because cars are strictly banned on the islands, they offer a peaceful retreat from the city traffic. However, in July and August, Büyükada (the largest island) is completely overrun by tens of thousands of tourists on bicycles, making it incredibly chaotic.

The Winter Secret

Visiting the islands between November and March is a completely different, highly romantic experience. The massive tourist crowds vanish. The island returns to its quiet, historical roots. You can wander among the stunning 19th-century wooden Victorian mansions in total silence, surrounded by pine forests and mist rolling off the sea.

What to Do in Winter

• Take a Carriage Ride? No: Horse carriages were permanently banned due to animal cruelty. You now rent electric golf carts or walk.
• Eat Seafood: The waterfront fish restaurants are much cozier in winter. Sit by a heater, drink Rakı, and enjoy fresh seasonal fish without fighting for a table.
• Hike to Aya Yorgi: The steep hike to the St. George Monastery at the peak of the island is exhausting in the summer heat, but incredibly refreshing in the crisp winter air.

Getting to the Ferry

Ferries to the islands depart from Kabataş or Kadıköy. On a cold winter morning, waiting for a taxi to take you to the ferry terminal is miserable. Pre-book a VIP transfer to drop you exactly at the Kabataş docks right before the ferry departs.