Escape the bustling metropolis for a magical day trip to Büyükada, the largest and most enchanting of Istanbul's Princes' Islands. This full-day adventure begins with a scenic 45-minute ferry ride across the Sea of Marmara, offering panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline, ancient city walls, and the Asian shore. Upon arrival, step back in time to the 19th century when these islands served as summer retreats for Ottoman aristocracy and wealthy minorities. Explore the car-free island via traditional horse-drawn carriage (fayton) through pine-scented streets lined with magnificent Victorian mansions, colorful wooden houses, and historic monasteries. Visit the hilltop Monastery of St. George, offering breathtaking 360-degree views and home to miraculous healing traditions. Discover the island's fascinating multicultural history at the Museum of the Princes' Islands, housed in a beautifully restored Greek mansion. Enjoy a traditional seafood lunch at a historic waterfront restaurant where Leon Trotsky once dined during his exile. Spend free time swimming at pristine beaches, cycling through hidden valleys, or browsing antique shops filled with Ottoman-era treasures. The day includes visits to the beautiful Splendid Palace Hotel grounds and the charming Çınar Beach before returning to Istanbul as the sun sets over the Bosphorus. HIGHLIGHTS: • Scenic 45-minute ferry ride with panoramic Istanbul views • Traditional horse-drawn carriage tour through Victorian streets • Hilltop Monastery of St. George with 360° views • Museum of Princes' Islands in restored Greek mansion • Traditional seafood lunch at Trotsky's historic restaurant • Free time at pristine beaches and pine forests • Antique shopping in Ottoman-era treasure shops • Splendid Palace Hotel historic grounds visit WHAT'S INCLUDED: • Round-trip ferry tickets from Kabataş Terminal • Traditional horse-drawn carriage (fayton) tour • Museum of Princes' Islands entrance fee • Traditional seafood lunch with sea views • Monastery of St. George admission • Professional English-speaking guide • Traditional island ice cream tasting • Comprehensive historical briefing IMPORTANT INFORMATION: • Comfortable walking shoes for monastery hike • Swimming gear and towels recommended • Monastery requires modest dress (covered shoulders/knees) • Horse carriages are authentic Victorian transport • Swimming areas have no lifeguards • Return ferry schedule strictly observed • Bicycle rental available separately for additional exploration