Istanbul in 1 Day for Couples - Boat cruise across the Sea of Marmara
In Collaboration with We Go Turkiye Travel. Updated on February 15, 2026.
Full-day guided tour from Istanbul to the Princes' Islands (Heybeliada and Büyükada). Includes hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned coach, boat tickets, guide service and lunch. See top Istanbul sights from the water and enjoy free time on the islands.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with We Go Turkiye Travel, inspired by the tour Istanbul: Princes Islands Tour with Heybeliada and Büyükada. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Boat cruise across the Sea of Marmara
- Pass under Galata Bridge and view Topkapı Palace
- See Kız Kulesi (Maiden's Tower) from the boat
- 3 hours free time on Heybeliada
- Lunch and leisure time on Büyükada (beach or cafés)
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day tour: hotel pickup → coach to Eminönü → boat cruise with commentary → Heybeliada free time → lunch & leisure on Büyükada → return to Istanbul and hotel drop-off.
Hotel pickup and coach transfer to Eminönü (meeting)
Pick up from hotels in central Istanbul (Old City and Taksim zones). Travel by air-conditioned coach to Eminönü port to board the tour boat.
Tips from local experts:
- Have your hotel name and room number ready for the pickup call or message the morning of the tour.
- Wear comfortable shoes for boarding the boat; keep a light jacket handy for sea breezes.
- If you want a quieter pickup (for a romantic start), request a pickup time that avoids early rush-hour when confirming details.
Pass under Galata Bridge (boat narration)
Board the boat at Eminönü and pass under the Galata Bridge while the guide provides historical commentary about the bridge and surrounding neighborhoods.
Tips from local experts:
- For photos of the bridge and skyline, stand on the open side of the boat facing the Golden Horn.
- Keep personal items secure on deck during boarding and disembarking; there can be short crowds at the ferry ramp.
- If you prefer shade, sit in the covered cabin while still asking the guide to point out photo opportunities.
View Topkapı Palace from the water
See Topkapı Palace and hear brief commentary about its role in Ottoman history while the boat passes the historic peninsula. Note: live guiding is restricted inside special sections of the palace; this is an external viewpoint from the boat.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring binoculars or use camera zoom to see palace details from the boat.
- Topkapı Palace is visible from the water—do not plan to visit inside as part of this tour; bring any required medications/essentials since interior visits are not scheduled.
- If you want a quieter photo, move to the upper deck quickly after boarding to secure an unobstructed view.
See Kız Kulesi (Maiden's Tower) from the boat
Pass by the famous Maiden's Tower (Kız Kulesi) in Üsküdar with guide commentary and a photo stop opportunity from the boat.
Tips from local experts:
- For the classic photo, stand on the starboard (right) side of the boat when approaching Üsküdar.
- If you want to visit the tower later on your own, note that disembarkation and return schedules differ—this tour provides a viewing only.
- Carry a light scarf or windbreaker; winds near the tower can be cooler than onshore.
Boat crossing to Heybeliada
Cruise across the Sea of Marmara to Heybeliada. Enjoy sea views and island approach; arrival followed by 3 hours free time to explore at leisure.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring sunscreen and a hat for island arrival—shade can be limited on promenades.
- Plan a short walking route on the island (cafés, small beaches, historic churches) so you can make the most of the 3 hours.
- For a quieter experience, walk a short distance uphill for elevated views of the Marmara Sea—wear comfortable shoes for light uphill paths.
Free time on Heybeliada (3 hours)
Three hours to explore Heybeliada at leisure — stroll the waterfront, visit small cafés, or relax at a beachside spot. Return to the meeting point on time for the onward boat to Büyükada.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm a clear rendezvous time and landmark with your guide before dispersing (e.g., main ferry pier).
- Many island cafés accept cards, but bring some cash for small vendors and tips.
- If you'd like a romantic quieter spot, head to the eastern promenade for less-crowded seating and sunset-facing views.
Short ferry to Büyükada and lunch
Take the short hop to the largest Princes' Island, Büyükada. Lunch at a local restaurant (seafood-focused options commonly available) and relaxed time on the island.
Tips from local experts:
- If you prefer a quieter table, ask to be seated away from the main pier; cafés and restaurants have varied atmospheres.
- Request grilled or locally caught seafood prepared simply for a light, couple-friendly meal; mention any dietary needs to the server.
- Keep swimwear, towel and change of clothes in a small bag if you plan to visit the beach after lunch.
Leisure time on Büyükada (beach, cafés, shops)
After lunch, enjoy free time to swim, relax on the beach, visit coastal cafés or browse local craft shops. Return to the group at the prearranged time to board the boat back to Istanbul.
Tips from local experts:
- If you plan to swim, check for any seasonal beach entrance fees which are not covered by the tour.
- For a private moment, walk a short distance from the main pier toward the eastern beaches for a quieter atmosphere.
- Set an alarm or agree a clear meeting place/time with your guide so you don’t miss the scheduled return boat.
Return boat to Eminönü and coach drop-off to hotel
Rendezvous with the guide at the prearranged time, board the return boat and cruise back to Eminönü. From there you'll be transferred by coach back to your central Istanbul hotel where the tour concludes.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive at the pier 10 minutes before departure to board with the group and avoid last-minute crowding.
- Store any wet swimwear in a separate bag to keep the coach clean; many coaches do not allow wet swimsuits onboard.
- Confirm with your guide the estimated drop-off order so you know approximately when you'll reach your hotel.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 7 |
| Total Places | 9 |
| Activities Types | Hotel, Attraction, Culture, Transfer, Neighborhood, Meal, Outdoor |
