Access to Büyükada
Where is Büyükada?
Büyükada, the largest of Istanbul’s Princes’ Islands, is known as the jewel of the Marmara Sea. Just a short ferry ride away from the city’s vibrant energy, it offers a serene escape immersed in nature. As the heart of the Adalar district, Büyükada presents a distinctive side of Istanbul with its rich history, elegant architecture, and tranquil island lifestyle.
The Spirit of the Island
Büyükada is a unique destination where the elegance of the past meets the calm of the present, offering a sense of peace in every corner. The absence of motorized traffic gives the island its distinctive charm and quiet character. Guests can explore the island by bicycle, electric vehicles, or on foot. Lined with seaside restaurants, historic mansions, pine forests, and scenic coastal walking paths, Büyükada is an ideal destination for both day trips and extended stays.
From Istanbul Airport
(IST) – European Side
Distance: Approximately 65–70 km
Travel Time: 90–120 minutes, depending on traffic
Recommended Route:
From Istanbul Airport, you may take the Havaist shuttle or a taxi to one of the main ferry terminals—Kabataş, Beşiktaş, or Eminönü. From these piers, you can reach Büyükada via public ferries or private sea shuttles.
Alternative:
For guests seeking a more seamless journey, Splendid Palace offers private transfer and VIP transportation services upon request. This premium, chargeable service is designed to provide the highest level of comfort and convenience, in line with international hospitality standards.
From the European Side:
Kabataş Pier: One of the most preferred routes
Route: Kabataş – Kadıköy – Kınalıada – Burgazada – Heybeliada – Büyükada
Approximate duration: 75 minutes (via Kadıköy) – 120 minutes (direct from Kabataş)
Beşiktaş / Eminönü Piers: Regular connections via public ferries and private boats
Approximate duration: 70–90 minutes
From Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) – Asian Side
Distance: Approximately 35–40 km
Travel Time: 60–90 minutes on average
Recommended Route:
From the airport, you may take a taxi or arrange a private transfer to Bostancı or Kadıköy piers. From there, frequent services operated by City Lines, İDO, or private boats will take you to Büyükada.
Note:
The Bostancı–Büyükada sea route takes approximately 30 minutes.
From the Asian Side:
Bostancı Pier: The fastest and most convenient option
Approximate duration: 25–35 minutes
Kadıköy Pier: Frequent departures throughout the day
Approximate duration: 60–75 minutes
Maltepe Pier: Seasonal private boats and sea taxi options available (summer period)
Approximate duration: 20–25 minutes
Getting to the Hotel from Büyükada Pier
Upon arrival at Büyükada, Splendid Palace Hotel awaits you just a short distance from the pier.
On Foot: Approximately 5 minutes
Alternative: Further details can be provided during the reservation process.
Private Transfer Options
For your comfort, the following services can be arranged upon request:
- Private transfer between the airport and the pier
- Sea taxi service between the pier and Büyükada
These services are offered as premium, chargeable options, designed to provide the highest level of comfort and convenience in line with international hospitality standards.
City Lines – Princes’ Islands Routes
Mavi Marmara – Passenger & logistics transportation | Event services
For a faster and more comfortable journey, you may also choose to book a sea taxi via the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IBB) Sea Taxi application, offering a practical and efficient way to reach Büyükada by sea.
Island Guide
Making Time for Büyükada
Although just a short ferry ride from Istanbul, Büyükada feels like an entirely different world—car-free, tranquil, and wonderfully human in scale. Upon arrival at the pier, you may be greeted by a lively and bustling atmosphere, especially during weekends and the summer months. This initial impression, shaped by vibrant cafés and shops, does not fully reflect the island’s true spirit.
Just a few minutes away from the ferry, the crowds gently fade, giving way to the scent of pine trees, the soothing sound of the sea, and the elegance of nostalgic architecture. As you make your way toward Splendid Palace Hotel, a warm, atmospheric, and timeless experience begins—rooted in history and enriched by its heritage as a family-owned establishment.
Büyükada is closed to motorized traffic and features occasional hills and stairways. Due to the historic nature of our property, accessibility may be limited for guests with reduced mobility; we kindly recommend contacting us prior to your reservation for further information.
The island’s unhurried rhythm makes it difficult to limit your stay to just one night. When you allow yourself a little more time, both Büyükada and Splendid Palace begin to reveal their many layers:
- Waking up in high-ceilinged rooms adorned with historic details, followed by long, leisurely breakfasts overlooking the sea
- Exploring the island by bicycle—available for our guests—wandering among elegant mansions and discovering scenic routes from pine forests to the coastline
- Enriching your day in summer with beach visits or short ferry trips to neighboring islands; or during cooler seasons, enjoying peaceful cultural walks through quiet streets
- Unwinding by the pool after a day of exploration, or slowing down with a rejuvenating spa experience
- Savoring a drink in the romantic, homely ambiance of Red Bar as the afternoon fades into evening
- Concluding the day with an elegant dinner at Mualla Restaurant, accompanied by captivating island views
Splendid Palace is not merely a place to stay—it is a way of experiencing the very spirit of the island. With its historic architecture, nostalgic charm, sincere hospitality, and refined spaces, it invites you into a timeless atmosphere. To truly feel Büyükada requires a little time, a slower pace, and a genuine appreciation of each moment.
