Ferries · Getting There
Büyükada & the Princes' Islands from Kabataş
Kabataş is the main European-side pier for the Princes' Islands — convenient for Taksim and Sultanahmet, though the crossing is longer.
Key facts
- Leave from
- Kabataş (European side)
- To Büyükada
- ~75–100 min
- Operators
- Şehir Hatları · private
- Fare
- ~₺135 İstanbulkart, per crossing
- Reach the pier
- T1 tram · funicular from Taksim
Why Kabataş
Kabataş is the most convenient European-side departure for most tourists — walkable from the tram and the Taksim funicular. The trade-off is time: it's the longest crossing, about 75–100 minutes to Büyükada (the islands are its final stops).
Getting to Kabataş
Take the T1 tram (from Sultanahmet/Eminönü) to its Kabataş terminus, or the short funicular down from Taksim. Both Şehir Hatları and private ferries sail from here.
On the ferry
Sit on the right side outbound for city-and-island views, pay per crossing with an İstanbulkart, and don't leave the return to the last, crowded boat. Full ferry guide →
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Roughly 75–100 minutes — it's the longest crossing, as Büyükada is the last stop. For a faster trip, cross to Bostancı on the Asian side.
Take the T1 tram to Kabataş, or the funicular down from Taksim Square — both end right by the ferry terminal.
Yes — it's the handiest European-side pier for central tourist areas, reachable by tram and funicular.
Around ₺135 one way with an İstanbulkart (2026), per crossing.
Ready for the islands?
Book a guided day trip with a boat cruise, free time on Büyükada and lunch.