A Quiet Escape from Istanbul 🌊🚢

If you're looking for an easy little escape from Istanbul's chaos, hop on the ferry from Eminönü to Büyükada. It's the most peaceful 90 minutes you'll spend all week. Just tap your 💳 Istanbulkart (or pay separately by cash/card), find a seat on the desk (make sure you're on the right boat!!!), and let the city fade into the distance.

🕌 From the water, you get an incredible view of Istanbul - the domes of Hagia Sophia, Galata Tower, and endless rooftops glowing in the sunlight. If you look closely near the port (and even along the ride), you'll spot tiny fish darting just under the surface, and plenty of jellyfish 🪼 drifting slowly by! The sea around the Princes' Islands is full of life once you notice it.

When you arrive at Büyükada, it's a bit busy, especially on weekends, but nothing like Istanbul. Everything feels calmer. No cars 🚗 (except tourist coaches and police cars), just bikes 🚴♀️ and small electric carts humming through the streets. Shops near the pier are full of souvenirs, Turkish clothes, and handmade beach-style jewellery 🐚. There was one particular shop that had all sorts of fancy handmade chess sets that I've never seen like in my life! It's touristy but lively in a fun way.

The seafood restaurants at the waterfront have great views but are a bit pricey 💸 compared to Istanbul, so we just stopped for tea and some ice cream 🍦 - which was much cheaoer and honestly just as satisfying in the heat.

A few streets away from the waterfront, things get quieter. If you rent a bike, prepare for a workout 🚴♀️💪. Büyükada is very hilly, but the ride is worth it. You'll find Ottoman-style wooden houses with colorful shutters and flowers everywhere 🌸🌹🌻. Cats nap in the shade, and the smell of the sea drifts between the streets.

Some tips for your journey:
⏰️ Duration: Around 90 minutes each way.
💳 Tickets: Use your Istanbulkart, or pay by cash/credit card. No need to pre-book.
🕖 Best time: Go early in the morning on a week day and stay for the sunset.
🍽 Food: Meal options are a bit pricier on the island, so I'd suggest packing a lunch and some snacks. Ice cream is very cheap.
🚲 Transport: Rent a bike (electric if possible - will make your life a lot easier as the hills are steep!)
👚 Bring: A light jacket for the ferry breeze, cash for small cafés, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
🕕 Return: Check the schedule before exploring and make sure you know when your return ferry options are! Last ferries back to the city leave early evening.

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