Büyükada (Princes' Islands)

Büyükada is the largest of the Prince Islands group and the most famous island escape from Istanbul. Its prettiness can be marred by the number of trees in mid-summer, so don't expect a peaceful island. Come midweek between May and September, or spring or fall for the best experience.

There are several beaches along the coast, but the real charm of Büyükada is found in strolling the car-free lanes lined with grand 19th-century mansions and heading up the hill to St. George for views across the Marmara Sea back to Istanbul.

Leon Trotsky spent the first four years of his exile from the Soviet Union at Büyükada, and in Byzantine times, a convent here was a convenient place to send several queens into exile. To discover more about Büyükada (and the rest of the island group's history), don't miss visiting the Museum of the Princes Islands while you're here.

The top island vacation is Ada Palas. Voted one of the most romantic hotels in Turkey, this exquisitely restored wooden villa features rooms decorated in 19th-century regal style and hosts one of the most famous restaurants on the island.

Location: Adalar district, Istanbul Province, Turkey