Ferries · Getting There
Büyükada & the Princes' Islands from Kadıköy
Kadıköy, the lively Asian-side hub, has frequent ferries to the Princes' Islands and a quick crossing.
Key facts
- Leave from
- Kadıköy (Asian side)
- To Büyükada
- ~45–60 min
- Operators
- Şehir Hatları · private
- Fare
- ~₺135 İstanbulkart, per crossing
- Reach the pier
- Marmaray / metro / bus to Kadıköy
Why Kadıköy
Kadıköy is a great starting point if you're staying on the Asian side or want to pair the islands with a wander through its famous market and cafés. The crossing to Büyükada is about 45–60 minutes.
Getting to Kadıköy
Kadıköy is a major transport hub — reach it by Marmaray, the M4 metro, buses, or the classic ferry from Eminönü/Karaköy. The island ferries leave from the Kadıköy terminals.
On the ferry
Ferries call at each island in turn; pay per crossing with an İstanbulkart. Go early on a weekday and plan an earlier return. Full ferry guide →
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
About 45–60 minutes — quick, though Bostancı is slightly faster.
By Marmaray, the M4 metro, bus, or the cross-Bosphorus ferry from Eminönü or Karaköy — it's one of Istanbul's main hubs.
Around ₺135 one way with an İstanbulkart (2026), per crossing.
Yes — Kadıköy's market and food scene make a great morning before an afternoon island ferry, or a stop on the way back.
Ready for the islands?
Book a guided day trip with a boat cruise, free time on Büyükada and lunch.