By ferry to the Princes' Islands; a walk among the mansions of Büyükada and a climb to Aya Yorgi on Yücetepe.
60–90 min by ferry from Kabataş or Bostancı · stay 15 min
There are no private cars on the island; you get around on foot, by bicycle or by electric vehicle.
3 min · stay 20 min
The island's shops and bakeries; pick up water and snacks for the walk.
10-min walk · stay 40 min
Wooden mansions from the 19th and 20th centuries, with bougainvillea spilling over the garden walls.
45–60 min, the last stretch a steep climb · stay 75 min
A monastery and church on the island's highest hill; views over the Sea of Marmara and lunch at the restaurant at the top.
A steep, stony climb; bring water and comfortable shoes.
≈ 2 h 15 min · fast ferry + bus · Day trip
Why here: The first Ottoman capital. The Green Mosque, the Grand Mosque and Koza Han make an easy day trip; we suggest it if you are staying in Istanbul for more than four days. Not part of this route.
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Source: Prof. Dr. İlber Ortaylı (1947–2026)
Source: Prof. Dr. İlber Ortaylı (1947–2026)
