Heybeliada
Heybeliada is the second-largest of Istanbul's Princes' Islands, reached by ferry from the city and prized for exactly what Istanbul itself lacks: no cars, pine-forested hills, and a slow, old-fashioned pace built around horse-drawn carriages, bicycles, and walking. Ottoman-era wooden mansions line the streets near the harbor, a legacy of the island's history as a summer retreat for Istanbul's elite, and the hilltop Greek Orthodox seminary — long closed to new students amid a diplomatic dispute over its reopening — remains a striking, still-active landmark visible from much of the island.
The island's beaches and pine-shaded picnic spots make it a popular summer escape for Istanbullus wanting a break from the city without leaving it entirely, and a walk or bike ride around its perimeter road takes in sea views, quiet coves, and a genuinely different rhythm of life just an hour from the Bosphorus. It's less commercialized than the more famous Büyükada next door, appealing to visitors who want a quieter island day.
Heybeliada FAQs
Regular ferries run from Kabataş, Kadıköy, and Bostancı, with the crossing taking roughly 30 to 60 minutes depending on departure point and whether it's a fast or standard ferry.
No, cars are banned on the island (aside from a few service vehicles), so visitors get around by walking, renting bicycles, or taking a horse-drawn carriage, which is part of the island's appeal.
Heybeliada is generally quieter and less commercialized than Büyükada, the largest and most famous of the Princes' Islands, making it a good choice for travelers wanting a more relaxed island day.
It's a historic theological school on the island's highest hill, closed to new students since 1971 amid an ongoing dispute over its reopening, though the building remains a notable landmark visible from around the island.
A half day to a full day is typical — enough time for the ferry ride, a walk or bike loop around the island, a swim if the season allows, and a meal near the harbor.
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