Büyükada means “Big Island” in Turkish — and it truly is! It’s the largest of the Princes’ Islands, located in the Sea of Marmara just a short ferry ride from Istanbul. With an area of 5.4 square kilometers, its highest point is Yücetepe Hill (203 meters). The island has a small, peaceful population of around 8,000 people.
🗺️ Top Things to See on Büyükada
Aya Yorgi (St. George) Monastery – Located at the top of Yücetepe, with amazing views of Istanbul and the Marmara Sea
Greek Orthodox Churches – Agios Dimitrios & Panagia
Hristos Monastery – A peaceful Greek Orthodox monastery in the forest (temporarily closed)
San Pacifico Church – A Roman Catholic church from the 1800s
Surp Asdvadzadzin Verapokhum Church – An Armenian Catholic church
Hamidiye Mosque – A historical Ottoman mosque
Trotsky’s House Ruins – The Russian leader Leon Trotsky lived here in exile from 1929–1933
Prinkipo Greek Orphanage – The largest wooden building in Europe, sadly in danger of collapse
Adalar Museum – A small museum telling the story of the Princes’ Islands
Merkez Eczanesi – A pharmacy from 1870, still in operation
Charming old wooden houses – Walk the streets and admire the beautiful architecture
🚲 Things to Do on Büyükada
Rent a bike and explore the island (cars are not allowed!)
Visit nature parks like Büyükada Tabiat Parkı and Dilburnu Nature Park
Swim and sunbathe at public beaches or beach clubs
Take a carriage ride (⚠️ Be kind to animals! Only support drivers who take good care of their horses)
Hike up to Aya Yorgi Church for an amazing view and a peaceful moment
🛥️ Getting There
You can reach Büyükada by ferry from Kabataş, Kadıköy, Bostancı, or Beşiktaş. The journey takes between 30 and 75 minutes, depending on where you leave from.
🌿 A Day on Büyükada
No cars, no noise — just the sound of waves, birds, and bicycle bells. Whether you love nature, history, or just a relaxing day by the sea, Büyükada is the perfect escape from Istanbul.
