Heybeliada (Princes' Islands)

Another one among the most beautiful islands in Turkey that you shouldn't miss is Heybeliada. If you're staying in Istanbul and need a quick break from big city life, do what the locals do and catch a ferry to the Prince Islands.

Located in the Sea of Marmara, Heybeliada is the second-largest island of this group. During weekends from May to October, it looks like half the city is closed here for the day, so try to time your visit on a weekday if you can.

No cars are allowed on the island, so it is a good opportunity to explore on foot or by bike (many plenties of bike rentals). One of the main things for tourists is to wander the streets lined with monumental wooden villas, up to viewpoints with panoramic sea views.

Regular ferries travel between central Istanbul and Heybeliada. Although there are several accommodation options on the island, the vast amount of visitors is day hikers.

Location: Prince Islands, Sea of Marmara, near Istanbul