🇹🇷 💡 What to do in Istanbul if you've already seen a lot?!
by Ekaterina Kolesnikova
Oct 30, 2025
I suggest you take note of this unusual place...
Many have heard of the Princes' Islands, which are located within the city limits, and my idea broker gave me the idea of visiting a little-known island in this archipelago, Yassıada Island.
Yassıada Island is a symbol of Turkey's struggle for democracy and independence. Historically, it was a place of exile for those undesirable, a prison, and a site for trials. Now, it's a veritable open-air museum.
💜 Upon arrival, you're offered a film in the large courtroom 😈 about the first military coup of 1960 in the Turkish Republic. The film is in Turkish, so if you don't have a Turkish-speaking guide, as I was lucky, it's best to read before or after. There are figures of the participants in the trial in the courtroom. It's amazing how well they're made, as if frozen in the emotions of that moment. I even changed my mind about going to Madame Tussauds.
💜 The island is an Instagram gem. You'll want to photograph every little detail. The installations are all about freedom, democracy, and independence, and also remind you of the tragic events of the coup.
💜 Everything for tourists: beautiful views of the Sea of Marmara, an observation deck with a glass floor, museums, a library, and picnic areas. There's even a huge hotel. Open upon request, as we understand it.
💜 Very well-kept and beautifully decorated. A great idea for a weekend stroll to feast your eyes, even if Turkey's historical events aren't your thing.
Interesting facts:
▪️The island is only open on weekends: Saturdays and Sundays.
▪️You can get there by ferry, which departs from the pier in Kadikoy, where you can also buy tickets. The cost is about 300 lira (I could be wrong).
▪️It turns out it's a charter flight 🤭: the ferry departs at 10 AM, waits on the island, and departs at 5 PM.
##istanbul
#istanbul
#turkey
#impressions
#unconventional
Post by Ekaterina Kolesnikova | Oct 30, 2025












