Only an hour’s ferry ride from the city center, the Princes’ Islands consist of 9 small islands that will transport you back in time and away from hectic city life. Spend a day exploring Büyükada, to gain insight into a multicultural society in modern Turkey, akin to the multicultural society that existed here during the Ottoman Empire.

Start with a cruise over the Marmara Sea to the largest island, Büyükada, and have lunch. Spend the afternoon enjoying the cheerful local life near the village square. Admire the well-preserved Victorian-era cottages that are covered in colorful flowers all summer.