How to Get to the Princes' Islands from Istanbul

Getting to the Princes’ Islands from Istanbul is refreshingly simple: you go by sea. There’s no bridge and no road — just a choice between the cheap, characterful public ferry, a faster sea bus, or a private boat. Here’s how each option works and how to pick the right one.

1. The public ferry (best value)

The classic choice. Şehir Hatları and İDO ferries leave from Kabataş and Eminönü (European side) and Kadıköy and Bostancı (Asian side). Pay with an Istanbulkart, board without a reservation, and enjoy the crossing. It’s the cheapest way to travel and the most authentic.

2. The fast sea bus (quickest)

İDO’s faster sea buses cut the crossing time and are handy in peak season, though they run less often and cost a little more than the standard ferry. From Bostancı, you’re on the islands in barely half an hour.

3. Private boat or tour cruise (most flexible)

For door-to-door ease, a private sea taxi or an organised cruise handles everything and often visits more than one island. It costs more but saves planning — see our tours guide for what’s included.