The King of Princes' Islands

What to expect

Landmarks and myths of Buyukada
The island is famous for its atypical for Istanbul architecture, variety of fauna, and beautiful beaches - all of this will be a part of the excursion. But I will also tell you what is true and what is not about Buyukada, what locals dislike about the tradition of travelers hanging notes on trees and 'pulling the thread', show you a real haunted house and a place where Trotsky once visited. You will see an incredible building of an old orphanage, truly huge and made of wood, the Church of St. George where icons and rich decoration will make you forget that you are in a Muslim country for a while. And from one of the hills, you will be able to take a few shots with breathtaking views of Istanbul and the neighboring islands.

Life of the island's aborigines
Buyukada is a place where during the warm season, it is not so easy to hear Turkish speech, because since ancient times not only Turks but also Greeks, Armenians, Jews, and many others have lived here. This is a rare case where a 5-square-kilometer piece of land is home to a synagogue, Greek, Armenian, Latin American, and Catholic churches, and in the summer, Greek music plays in the restaurants. The locals have a special attitude towards nature and ecology here. Extraordinary people lived on Buyukada at different times, for example, the owner of a public house who paid a huge amount of taxes to the state treasury - and I will tell you about them. You will find out what the life of wealthy Greeks was like 100 years ago, and, for comparison, see the poor streets of our days. You will admire villas with gardens and taste amazingly delicious fried sujuk on a hill.

Gastronomic Adventures
After climbing to the Monastery of St. George, you can have a lunch there with the most delicate kebabs, salads, and pastries, while admiring Istanbul from the hilltop, or in a fish restaurant with a view of the endless sea and neighboring islands. The restaurant is famous not only for its location but also for its cuisine. Many famous Turks come here specifically to taste dishes made from sea creatures and fish, the recipe of which only the chef knows. Another option is to have lunch at a canteen-like establishment. This café on Buyukada is loved by everyone, where there is always fresh and delicious food for every taste. And if you want to pass as a local, you can simply order a toast with tea or ayran on the promenade between the docks.