Exploring the tranquil oasis of the Princess Islands off the coast of Istanbul is a must for any visitor to the city. This all-inclusive tour offers a chance to discover the largest island, Büyükada, and its Ottoman-era charm. From a scenic ferry ride to a delectable seasonal lunch, the experience promises a well-rounded introduction to this unique part of the Marmara Sea. But the real highlight lies in what awaits as you step foot on the island, where the pace slows down and the sights transport you to a bygone era.
This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences In Istanbul.
Key Points
- The tour offers a ferry cruise to the largest Prince’s Island, Buyukada, with a freshly prepared seasonal lunch included.
- Visitors can explore the charming streets, admire Ottoman-era mansions, and enjoy free time for swimming, shopping, or sightseeing.
- The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, a local guide, and accessibility for those in wheelchairs or with strollers.
- Visitors can visit the iconic Topkapi Palace and Kiz Kulesi on the way back to Istanbul.
- The tour is confirmed at the time of booking, and a full refund is available if canceled up to 24 hours before the experience.
Tour Overview
This Istanbul Princess Islands Tour with Lunch Included offers visitors a chance to relax and explore the largest island in the Sea of Marmara. The tour includes a ferry cruise and a fresh seasonal lunch.
Guests will have free time to swim, shop for souvenirs, or admire the Ottoman mansions. On the way back, the tour will marvel at the Topkapi Palace and Kiz Kulesi.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, a local guide, and infants seats available, this tour is accessible and convenient. The maximum group size is 50 travelers, and the tour lasts approximately 8:30 am. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience.
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Included Services
The tour includes a hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation. Plus, the tour provides a round-trip boat crossing and a local guide to accompany guests. A freshly prepared seasonal lunch is also included in the service.
The tour’s included services aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for your.
Convenient transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as an air-conditioned vehicle.
Round-trip boat crossing to the Prince’s Islands, allowing guests to fully enjoy the experience.
A delectable seasonal lunch to refuel and recharge during the tour.
Pickup Locations
The tour offers pickup from hotels located in the Old City and Taksim areas of Istanbul, providing convenient transportation for guests.
However, there’s no pickup or drop-off service available from hotels situated on the Asian side of the city. This is likely due to the logistics involved in crossing the Bosphorus Strait and the added time and complexity it would present for the tour organizers.
The tour’s pickup locations cover the major tourist hubs, ensuring easy access for the majority of visitors.
This accessibility, combined with the other included services like the round-trip boat crossing and local guide, makes the Istanbul Princess Islands Tour a seamless and hassle-free experience for travelers.
Tour Details
Regarding the tour details, it starts at 8:30 am and has a maximum group size of 50 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience for guests. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and the tour is accessible for those in wheelchairs or with strollers, with infant seats also available.
The tour is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easily accessible for visitors.
The highlights of the tour include:
- Enjoying a ferry cruise across the Sea of Marmara to the Prince’s Island.
- Indulging in a fresh seasonal lunch during the visit.
- Marveling at the stunning Ottoman mansions and having the opportunity to swim or shop for souvenirs.
Cancellation Policy
According to the tour’s cancellation policy, travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time). This flexible policy allows guests to make last-minute changes to their plans without penalty.
It’s a thoughtful measure that demonstrates the tour operator’s commitment to customer satisfaction. Whether unexpected circumstances arise or plans simply change, travelers can book this tour with confidence, knowing they won’t lose their money if they need to cancel within a reasonable timeframe.
This cancellation policy is an important consideration for those seeking a hassle-free sightseeing experience in Istanbul.
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Island Exploration
Guests can look forward to a relaxing exploration of the Prince’s Islands, the largest archipelago in the Sea of Marmara. This tranquil oasis, located just a short ferry ride from the bustling city of Istanbul, offers visitors a chance to escape the urban landscape and enjoy a serene island atmosphere.
The tour allows ample time to stroll through the charming streets, admire the Ottoman-era mansions, and discover the unique culture and traditions of the islands.
Visitors can also take advantage of the opportunity to:
- Indulge in a fresh, seasonal lunch featuring local delicacies.
- Browse the quaint shops for authentic souvenirs.
- Cool off with a refreshing swim in the crystalline waters.
Dining Experience
The tour includes a fresh, seasonal lunch featuring local delicacies, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of the region as they take in the picturesque island scenery.
The lunch is served at a local restaurant, showcasing traditional Turkish cuisine. Diners can expect a variety of dishes, from grilled meats and seafood to vegetarian options, all prepared with the highest quality ingredients.
The lunch provides a wonderful opportunity to sample the unique culinary heritage of the Prince’s Islands, complementing the scenic boat ride and exploration of the Ottoman-style mansions.
With the meal included in the tour package, visitors can fully enjoy the island’s culture and hospitality without worrying about additional costs.
Sightseeing Highlights
The tour provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the enchanting Prince’s Islands, showcasing the picturesque Ottoman-style mansions and the serene natural landscapes that characterize this idyllic archipelago. Visitors can wander the quaint streets, admire the stunning architecture, and take in the breathtaking views of the Sea of Marmara and the distant Istanbul skyline.
Plus, the tour includes a visit to the iconic Topkapi Palace and the Kiz Kulesi (Maiden’s Tower), offering a glimpse into the city’s rich historical heritage.
The tour highlights include:
- Cruising on a ferry to the largest of the Prince’s Islands, Buyukada.
- Exploring the charming streets and admiring the ornate Ottoman-era mansions.
- Visiting the iconic Topkapi Palace and the Kiz Kulesi, iconic landmarks of Istanbul.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
Unfortunately, pets are generally not allowed on this tour. Most tour operators have strict policies prohibiting pets for safety and sanitation reasons. Passengers should check with the tour provider before attempting to bring a pet along.
Is There an Age Limit for the Tour?
The tour does not have an age limit. Children of all ages are welcome to participate. However, infant seats are available for those traveling with young children.
Can I Skip the Lunch and Pay a Reduced Price?
Yes, travelers can skip the included lunch and pay a reduced price for the tour. However, the tour operator may not offer a substantial discount, as the lunch is an integral part of the overall experience.
Can I Extend My Stay on the Island?
Yes, you can extend your stay on the island beyond the tour duration. However, this would require making your own arrangements for transportation back, as the tour only provides round-trip ferry crossing as part of the package.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
The tour operator does not offer any discounted pricing for students or seniors. However, they may provide special concessions for children or those with accessibility needs. Customers are encouraged to inquire about any available discounts at the time of booking.
Recap
The Istanbul Princess Islands Tour with Lunch Included offers a comprehensive and convenient way to explore the largest island in the Sea of Marmara, Büyükada.
With an all-inclusive package that includes a ferry cruise, a fresh seasonal lunch, and sightseeing at Topkapi Palace and Kiz Kulesi, this tour provides a well-rounded experience for visitors to experience the natural beauty, Ottoman-era architecture, and cultural highlights of the region.
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