The Islands, or referred to by tourists as The Princes’ Islands are located off the coast of Istanbul and are certainly the spot to get away from it all. The islands lie approximately 20km southeast of the city in the Sea of Marmara and offer a weekend of sheer bliss. The second you step onto the islands you’ll feel as though your miles away from the ordinary firstly because there are not vehicles allowed on the island, secondly because the nine islands are summer homes for many Istanbullus, which showcase just how exquisite the islands really are.
And so, rent a summer home, donkey, bicycle or horse-drawn carriage, grab your bathing suit and head on down to one of the four most popular islands.
Buyukada, the biggest island of the bunch is deemed as the most famous, and rightfully so with historical buildings along the shore, a plethora of restaurants and shops cascading the pier, and pristine public beaches.
Heybeliada, is where you’ll be surrounded by the beautiful coast whichever way you look. The island is home to museums, a lovely little picnic park and an over-abundant amount of hiking trails through the pine groves. As you embark on your vacation here, you’ll get back to nature in a peacefully picturesque way.
Burgazada, is the third largest island and is one place where you can enjoy the day sailing through the sea, or catching a few rays of sunlight. The one thing to know about Burgazada is that there aren’t too many spots to rest your head at night here, so this is the best day trip island.
Kinaliada, is where you’ll find some of the most beautiful summer homes along the seashore. The tiny quaint islands is all about holding onto the perfection of easy living.
No matter which island you hop on off to you’ll certainly be a prince or princess at anyone of The Princes’ Islands of Istanbul.
Photo Courtesy of Flickr.com/Emre Ergin