Viator Rating : 5 (287 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.3/10 (Solid Experience)
Istanbul
Istanbul Princess Island Tour: Electric Car & Lunch
540
Overview
The Istanbul Princess Island Tour with Electric Car and Lunch offers a unique escape from the city, focusing on the captivating island of Büyükada. Unlike other tours that rush through multiple islands, this experience dedicates its time to exploring the best of Büyükada. Instead of just a boat ride, this tour provides a special way to see the island.
Visitors can expect a relaxing ferry trip on the Marmara Sea, followed by an electric car tour of Büyükada. This allows for a comfortable and eco-friendly exploration of the island's charming streets and historical sites. The tour includes a delicious lunch at a local Turkish restaurant, offering a taste of authentic cuisine. The tour also stops at a Turkish Leather shop.
The tour provides a licensed guide, ferry tickets, and convenient pick-up and drop-off services. It's a full-day adventure perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet engaging experience. This tour ensures a memorable visit to the Princes' Islands, showcasing the beauty and culture of Büyükada. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (8 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Instagram Factor (8 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (6 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Upsell Risk (6 - Optional) : Upsells exist but avoidable
Logistics (7 - Friction) : Issues but experience continued
Mobility (6 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Pacing (7 - Uneven) : Inconsistent or mixed pacing
Highlights
Explore Büyükada by Electric Car: See the island in a fun, eco-friendly way.
Enjoy a Delicious Turkish Lunch: Taste real Turkish food at a local restaurant.
Hassle-Free Transportation: Includes pick-up and drop-off from your hotel.
Licensed Tour Guide: Learn about the island's history and culture from an expert.
Sentiment Analysis
Guests loved the electric car tour, saying it was a fun and unique way to see the island.
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Many enjoyed the lunch at the local restaurant, praising the delicious Turkish food.
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The tour guide was mentioned positively for being knowledgeable and helpful.
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The convenience of the pick-up and drop-off service was appreciated by many.
Some visitors wished they had more free time to explore on their own.
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A few mentioned that soft drinks were not included in the lunch.
The Journey
Marmara Sea Ferry
Begin your adventure with a scenic ferry journey across the Marmara Sea, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline and the charming Princes' Islands dotting the horizon. Breathe in the fresh sea air and feel the anticipation build as you approach your island destination. This iconic ferry ride is not merely transportation, but a vital thread connecting Istanbul to its island escapes, and an immersive introduction to the region's natural beauty.
Büyükada Electric Car Tour
Experience the largest of the Princes' Islands, Büyükada, in a unique and eco-friendly way – by electric car. Glide along tree-lined streets, past elegant Ottoman-era villas adorned with vibrant bougainvillea, and discover hidden coves and scenic viewpoints. Explore the island's car-free policy which makes the journey more enjoyable. This is a refreshing alternative to bustling city life, offering a tranquil escape into a bygone era. Feel like royalty as you traverse the island's captivating landscape at your own pace.
Princes' Islands
Escape the urban clamor of Istanbul and discover the tranquil allure of the Princes' Islands. These car-free havens, a short ferry ride away, offer a glimpse into a slower, more idyllic way of life. Stroll along charming streets lined with historic wooden mansions, enjoy the fragrance of pine forests, and savor breathtaking views of the Marmara Sea. The islands' rich history, dating back to Byzantine times when they served as places of exile for royalty, adds another layer of intrigue to their serene beauty.
Local Turkish Restaurant
Indulge in an authentic Turkish culinary experience at a local restaurant, where you can savor a delightful array of traditional dishes. From flavorful kebabs and mezes to fresh seafood and delectable desserts, each bite is a journey through Turkey's rich gastronomic heritage. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, enjoy the warm hospitality, and discover the unique flavors that make Turkish cuisine world-renowned. This is more than just a meal; it's a cultural immersion through taste.
Marmara Sea Ferry (Return)
Reflect on your island adventure as you embark on a relaxing return ferry journey across the Marmara Sea. Capture the stunning sunset over the Istanbul skyline, reminisce about the day's discoveries, and breathe in the refreshing sea air. The gentle rocking of the boat and the panoramic views provide a tranquil end to a memorable day, creating a lasting impression of the Princes' Islands' charm and beauty.
Turkish Leather Shop
Upon returning to Istanbul, discover the artistry and craftsmanship of Turkish leather at a reputable leather shop. Browse a selection of high-quality leather goods, from stylish jackets and handbags to elegant wallets and belts. Learn about the traditional techniques used to create these exquisite pieces, and perhaps even find a unique souvenir to commemorate your trip. Turkish leather is celebrated for its durability, quality, and timeless style.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes lunch, a licensed guide, a short electric car tour on the island, pick-up and drop-off services, and two-way ferry tickets. Soft drinks and personal expenses are not included. Pick-up is available from centrally located hotels in Istanbul, and drop-off is at the same location for hotels in the city center. Please confirm your pick-up time and location with the tour operator 24-48 hours before your tour.
Hot Tip
Many guests suggest bringing extra money for drinks and souvenirs. Wearing comfortable shoes is a must, as there is some walking involved. Also, be sure to bring your camera to capture the beautiful scenery!
Review Summary
People find this tour highly valuable for its focused approach to exploring Büyükada, with travelers consistently praising the knowledgeable and personable guides who provide detailed historical explanations and go above and beyond to enhance the experience.[2] The inclusion of an electric vehicle tour of the island differentiates this experience from standard multi-island tours, allowing visitors to discover hidden corners and cultural sites that justify spending quality time on a single island rather than rushing through multiple stops.
Frequently Asked Questions
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