Kadıköy Pier → Büyükada PierFerry Schedule 2026 — Current Departure Times and Prices

Kadıköy Pier to Büyükada Pier Ferry Guide

The ferry journey from Kadıköy, the heart of Istanbul's Asian side, to Büyükada—the largest and most popular of the Princes' Islands—is an essential escape for those looking to leave the city's exhausting pace behind. Welcoming thousands of passengers daily, this route is heavily favored both by locals seeking a weekend breather and by domestic and international tourists eager to explore the city's historical and natural beauty from the sea. Operated by Şehir Hatları's nostalgic ferries, this trip is not just a means of transportation, but a delightful Marmara cruise accompanied by the sound of seagulls and the scent of sea salt. Especially with the surge in passenger demand during the spring and summer months, this route stands out as one of Istanbul's most vibrant, enjoyable, and iconic maritime lines.

Journey Duration and Distance

Under normal weather and sea conditions, the Şehir Hatları ferry departing from Kadıköy Pier takes an average of 75 minutes to reach Büyükada Pier. Covering a total distance of 18.0 kilometers, this maritime journey offers passengers a unique visual feast. After leaving Kadıköy, the ferry typically stops at the Kınalıada, Burgazada, and Heybeliada piers to pick up and drop off passengers. While these intermediate stops extend the travel time, they provide a wonderful opportunity to admire the beautiful silhouettes of the islands from the water. On clear days, as you glide across the Sea of Marmara, you can take in Istanbul's coastline on one side and the lush green hills, pine forests, and historic wooden mansions of the Princes' Islands on the other. During the winter months, minor changes in travel time may occur due to factors like fog or the strong southwesterly lodos winds.

Ferry Schedules

Timetables on the Kadıköy–Büyükada route vary significantly between the summer and winter schedules. Due to high demand for the islands during the summer, ferries start operating early in the morning and continue at frequent intervals until late at night. In winter, the frequency of departures is slightly reduced. Particularly on weekday mornings, there is a heavy flow of commuters and students traveling from the islands to Kadıköy, whereas on weekends, the opposite is true, with massive crowds heading from Kadıköy to Büyükada. The busiest times on weekends are between 09:00 and 12:00 for departures, and between 17:00 and 20:00 for return trips. It is highly recommended to check the current Şehir Hatları timetable when planning your journey.

Ticket Prices and Reservations

Ticketing for the Kadıköy–Büyükada route is handled directly via the Istanbulkart. The Şehir Hatları Princes' Islands tariff applies, and passenger ticket prices vary based on standard, student, teacher, and discounted card types. It is also possible to purchase a single-pass ticket or token from the ticket booths, though this option is more expensive than using an Istanbulkart.

There is no need to purchase tickets online or make a reservation in advance; you can pass directly through the turnstiles at the pier by scanning your card. However, to avoid the crowds at the turnstile entrances, it is highly convenient to top up your Istanbulkart balance via the mobile app before arriving at the pier.

Getting to the Piers

The departure point, Kadıköy Pier, is one of Istanbul's most important and accessible transportation hubs. You can easily reach it from all over the city via the metro (M4 Kadıköy–Sabiha Gökçen line), Metrobus (with a transfer at the Söğütlüçeşme stop), Marmaray, buses, trams, and dolmuş (shared taxi) networks. The arrival point, Büyükada Pier, is located right in the center of the island. As soon as you step off the pier, you will find yourself in the island's bazaar, surrounded by restaurants and electric vehicle departure points. For those wishing to leave their cars near Kadıköy Pier, İSPARK and various private parking lots are available, though finding a spot on weekends can be quite challenging.

Traveling with a Vehicle

Since motor vehicle traffic is banned throughout the Princes' Islands, the Şehir Hatları ferries operating on the Kadıköy–Büyükada route provide passenger transport only. It is strictly prohibited to cross to the island with a private car, motorcycle, or caravan. In accordance with this rule, which aims to preserve the natural and historical fabric of the islands, you must get around on foot or by using electric public transport and bicycles once you arrive. If you are driving to Kadıköy Pier, you must leave your vehicle on the mainland. To avoid waiting in parking queues and missing your ferry, it is recommended to arrive at the pier area at least an hour before departure, park your vehicle in a secure spot, and proceed to the turnstiles on foot.

Travel Tips

• If you plan to sit on the open decks, bring a light jacket, keeping in mind that the sea can be breezy even in summer.
• If traveling on a weekend, arrive at the pier at least 20 minutes before departure to secure a good seat.
• Keep a fresh simit (Turkish bagel) handy, or buy one from the ferry kiosk, to feed the seagulls—an essential part of the journey.
• Enjoy the sea breeze with a freshly brewed tea and a toasted cheese sandwich from the ferry kiosk.
• Time your return journey for sunset to capture spectacular photos over the Sea of Marmara.
• Sit on the right side when heading to the islands and on the left side when returning for the best views of Istanbul's coastline.

Nearby Attractions

From the moment you step onto Büyükada Pier, you are greeted by historical and natural wonders. The famous Clock Tower in the pier square makes for a perfect first stop. The Hagia Yorgi Church (St. George), perched on one of the island's highest peaks and boasting spectacular views, is among the most popular sites for visitors. The historic Prinkipo Greek Orphanage, Europe's largest wooden building, the nostalgic architecture of the Splendid Palace Hotel, and the island's famous ice cream parlors are absolute must-sees. Additionally, you can rent a bicycle and enjoy a delightful ride along the Lovers' Lane (Aşıklar Yolu), which winds through the pine forests.