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The Island Escape: The Peak & Spirits
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Joined 2025
Escape the city's roar for the tranquil, car-free paradise of the Princes' Islands. We sail across the Sea of Marmara to explore grand Victorian-era mansions, pine-scented hills, and the hidden stories of exiled emperors. Whether on foot or by electric shuttle, we’ll discover the architectural elegance of the late Ottoman era and enjoy the slow-paced island life. It’s a breath of fresh air combined with aristocratic history, offering the most serene perspective of Istanbul’s skyline.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Kabataş Ferry Terminal (Main Entrance)
- I meet you here at 09:30 AM to catch the 10:00 AM ferry. This terminal is easily accessible via the T1 Tram or the F1 Funicular from Taksim.
The Bosphorus & Marmara Sail
We begin with a legendary ferry ride. As we leave the European side, you’ll get a panoramic view of the Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Maiden’s Tower from the sea. Your guide will provide the historical context of the "Exiled Princes" who gave the islands their name.
Büyükada Ottoman Pier (The Grand Entrance)
Built in 1915, this Ottoman neo-classical terminal is an architectural masterpiece. We start our walk here, amidst the vibrant flowers and the distinct lack of engine noise, as motor vehicles are prohibited on the island.
The Mansion District & Splendid Palace
Upon arrival, we walk through the "Nizam" neighborhood, admiring the 19th-century wooden mansions and the iconic pink shutters of the Splendid Palace Hotel.
The Ascent to Yüce Tepe (The Holy Hill)
We take a local electric shuttle to the "Birlik Meydanı" (Lunapark) area. From there, we begin the spiritual ascent.
• Note: This is a steep 15-20 minute walk up the "Azap Yokuşu." Following local tradition, we can remain silent or tie a thread for a wish.
Aya Yorgi Church (The Miracle Worker)
A visit to the 1751 Greek Orthodox monastery. We’ll light a candle and take in the 360-degree panoramic view of the Istanbul archipelago
Meyhane - Turkish Spirits
Located right next to the church, this legendary spot offers a rustic, authentic "Meyhane" experience. We will sit at the edge of the cliff to enjoy:
• Traditional Mezes: Hand-picked seasonal appetizers.
• Local Spirits: Enjoying a glass of Rakı or wine with the ultimate view of the Marmara Sea.
• Experience: This is where the "Escape" truly happens—far above the city's noise.
The Descent via Electric Shuttle
To save our energy and keep the transition smooth, we take the local electric shuttle from the "Birlik Meydanı" (Lunapark) area. We’ll glide through the pine-scented roads of the island, heading back towards the historic district.
A Cultural Pause: Taş Mektep (The Stone School)
We get off the shuttle at Taş Mektep. This beautifully restored 19th-century academy offers a grand architectural finale. We’ll briefly explore its halls and library, taking a few last photos of its neo-classical stone facade before our final walk.
Mansions to the Pier
From Taş Mektep, we enjoy a gentle, downhill walk towards the ferry terminal. This is the perfect time to admire the historic wooden mansions (Nizam district) under the soft evening light. It’s a peaceful 20 minute stroll that connects the forest to the sea
The Grand Finale: Flexible Farewell at the Pier
Our guided adventure concludes at the historic Büyükada Ferry Terminal.At this point you may choose to stay on the island or I can offer you a trip back to the mainland (Eminonu Pier) so that you can arrive your hotel easily
Ending Point
Büyükada Ottoman Pier
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
• Expert Local Guiding: A 6-hour curated storytelling journey led by a professional guide who knows the secret history of the island’s mansions and monasteries.
• The "Peak" Experience: Guided navigation through the steep "Path of Wishes" to the Aya Yorgi Church, including cultural and spiritual commentary.
• Architectural Heritage Visit: Entry and historical briefing at the Taş Mektep (The Stone School) and the Nizam Mansion district.
• Logistical Support: Assistance with ferry schedules, Istanbulkart top-ups, and electric shuttle navigation throughout the day.
• Flexible Final Briefing: Personal guidance at the pier to ensure you know how to return to your hotel or continue your evening on the island safely.
• Round-trip Ferry Tickets: Approximately 180-200 TL per person via public ferry (must be paid via Istanbulkart).
• Electric Shuttle Fees: Approximately 140-150 TL for the island’s internal transit system.
• The Meyhane Finale (Lunch/Drinks): To give you total freedom of choice, all food and beverages at the Yüce Tepe "Cliffside" Restaurant (and any seaside snacks) are on a pay-as-you-go basis.
• Personal Shopping: Any handcrafted souvenirs, crochet work from local artisans, or island delicacies you wish to purchase.
• Private Transportation: This tour uses the local public system. Private water taxis or chauffeured land transfers are available for an additional fee upon request.
• Gratuities: Tips for the guide and restaurant staff are not included and are greatly appreciated if you enjoyed your island retreat!
By separating meals and transport from the guiding fee, we offer you the flexibility to choose your own menu and experience the island's authentic local transit. Please have your Istanbulkart ready with a minimum of 700 TL balance for a seamless journey!
Tour Important Information
1. Physical Activity Level (Challenging)
This tour includes a steep 15-20 minute uphill walk to the Aya Yorgi Church. While we use electric shuttles for the main forest roads, the final ascent is on foot (as per local tradition). Sturdy walking shoes or sneakers are mandatory. Please avoid sandals, flip-flops, or formal footwear.
2. Meeting Point & Punctuality
We meet at the Kabataş Ferry Terminal (Main Entrance) at 09:15-9:30 AM. The ferry departs at 10:00 AM sharp. Due to the strict maritime schedule,we cannot wait for late arrivals. Please allow extra time for morning traffic to reach the terminal.
3. The "Pay-as-you-go" Model
To give you the freedom to choose your own menu and budget, meals and drinks are not included. Our "Meyhane" finale at the peak and any seaside snacks are at your own expense. Your guide will assist with menu recommendations and translations.
4. Transportation Logistics
We use the public ferry system and island electric shuttles to experience the city like a local. Please ensure your Istanbulkart has a minimum balance of 700 TL per person to cover the round-trip ferry and shuttle fees. If you don't have a card, your guide will assist you in purchasing a limited-use pass at the station.
5. Weather & Sea Conditions
The Sea of Marmara can be breezy even on sunny days.We recommend bringing a light jacket or pashmina for the ferry ride.In case of extreme weather (storm/gale) where ferries are canceled,the tour can be rescheduled.
6. Sun & Hydration
The island sun is deceptively strong due to the sea breeze.A hat,sunglasses,and high-SPF sunscreen are highly recommended.I advise carrying a bottle of water,especially for the climb to the church.
7. Flexible Farewell
As specified in our itinerary,the guided portion ends at the Büyükada Pier.If you choose to stay on the island for dinner or an overnight retreat,the responsibility for your return journey to the mainland lies with you.Your guide will provide the final ferry times before parting ways.
Important message from the supplier
I can give day tours and evening tours as well as excursions far from the city that I currently live in. For those tours which requires a remote city visit (and for the ones that we’ll customize together for you) I will need an advance booking (best to book 2-3 weeks prior and earlier)
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2025
About Tour Guide Yağmur B.
I’ve been a professional tour guide for9 years, and let me tell you, I absolutely adore my job. I love showcasing my country, Turkiye, with all its cultural, historical, and modern treasures. Every day, I get to share my enthusiasm and pride for my homeland with visitors. I truly enjoy making everyone feel like a cherished guest, and I take great pleasure in introducing them to the unique wonders of Turkiye with both joy and a touch of humor. For me, every tour is a delightful experience, and it’s all about making memories and having fun along the way!
Reviews
Jason O.
“Fun, Informative, Engaging”
We had a large group that included four teenagers. Yagmur took us to see historical sites and shopping. She was fun, kept the kids engaged, helped us with negotiating some purchases, took us for an excellent lunch and snacks, and provided us with deeply informed context about what we were seeing and about Istanbul. She is a consummate professional. Highly recommended.
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Yağmur B.
It’s an honor for me to hear such great reviews from you! Thank you for your feedback. Greetings from Istanbul
Raghavendra S.
“Professional, knowledgeable and pleasant ”
We are a family of hour and explored the heart of the city with Yagmur today. She was proactive communicating with us ahead of time. The tour itself was excellent. Yagmur’s knowledge, passion and wit shone through in her description of the wonderful sites we toured. She was patient in answering our questions and adjusted the tour to suit our areas of interest. The pace of the tour felt just right and overall we were very satisfied having spent the day with her and coming off much better informed than we’d be had we gone by ourselves. Definitely recommended.
Yağmur B.
Appreciate your review and I am so happy that I could provide a pleasant experience in my city, Hoping to see you again!
$250/ per group
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