Burgazada Travel Guide – Calm & Peaceful 🖤

One of The Princes’ Islands

The Princes’ Islands consists of nine islands in the sea of Marmara;

• Büyükada
• Heybeliada
• Burgazada
• Kınalıada
• Sedef Island
• Yassıada
• Sivriada
• Kaşık Island
• Tavşan Island

Burgazada is the third largest of the islands. Burgazada was called “Antigone” in historical texts. Demetrius Poliorcete named the island after his father Antigonus when he sailed to the Marmara Sea to conquer the empire and to free the Bosporus. However the name of the island was transformed into Panormus over the years, meaning “sheltered harbor.” After the conquest of Istanbul the island was named “Pyrgos” in Greek, which means “castle.” In time this name changed to Burgazada.

It is one of the most peaceful places in Istanbul as surrounded by pine trees and wooden houses, These wooden houses are owned by both the Rums (Anatolian Greeks) and families from Istanbul.

Don’t be deceived as it is the smaller and less popular island according to the Büyükada and Heybeliada ! You can even like Burgazda more ! Yes, Burgazada is small indeed, but you can still have much to do.

Take your time in the island and appreciate your moments !

Getting to Burgazada

You can use Ferry Lines or Mavi Marmara to get to Burgazada.

• Ferry Lines can be used from Maltepe, Bostancı, Kadıköy, Kabataş and Beşiktaş.
• Mavi Marmara can be used from Bostancı.

Visit the websites City Lines Ferry and Mavi Marmara’s and check departure times.

Discovering Burgazada

To explore the island, you can rent a bike or walk around the beautiful streets. This will be a scenic walk starting at the sea level, then you will be climbing the hill.

You shouldn’t miss these locations;

• Gönüllü & Mehtap Streets

I should say that the most interesting ones of Burgazada mansions are usually located on these streets. In particular, you will see and admire structures such as Belevi Mansion. Taking photos in front of these historical houses, located among colorful flowers and lush trees, is an island classic.

• Sait Faik Abasıyanık Museum

You should definitely visit the house and, now museum, of the great Turkish writer Sait Faik Abasıyanık. It is always a delight to see Burgazada through his unique words. He spent most of his life at this house. The museum is open on Wednesdays to Sundays between 10:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. and is free of charge.

https://saitfaikmuzesi.org/

• Hagios Ioannis Prodromos, The Church of St. John the Baptist

The Greek Orthodox church of Hagios Ioannis Prodromos is the most prominent monument in the village.

If you are visiting in summer, you can spend your day in the beaches. Most of the beaches are rocky-beaches but the water are very clean and green-blue. Some also have beach clubs. these are the best options to swim and cool with amazing scenes.

• Madam Martha Bay
• Dream Beach (Camping)
• Kalpazankaya Beach

When the sun starts to go down and sweet tiredness hits you, the best location to watch the sunset is Bayraktepe (Hristos Hill). This is the highest point of the island. You should go there prepared so that you can have a mini picnic with beautiful scene.

Other than the beautiful locations, you can also enjoy your meals and drinks at local places. I should say that of course, there is no too much options especially compared to cities. You should be well-prepared for that. But, still these are the best options with beautiful views and delicious food and drinks;

• Ergün Patisserie
• Four Letter Word Coffee
• Cennet Bahçesi Paradisos Cafe
• Barba Yani Restaurant
• Fincan Restaurant
• Yasemin Restaurant

Enjoy your time in the most romantic Princes’ island 🖤