GALATA BRIDGE (GALATA KOPRUSU)

Experience the best of Istanbul on an afternoon walking trip in Galata and Genoese. Walk over the Galata Bridge, shop at the spice bazaar, and finish with a stroll along the promenade.

Start your journey from the Kabatas Pier, next to the Galata bridge amongst the fish and bread boats. All you have to do is exchange your voucher at the ticket office and get access to the boat. A Marine Officer will welcome you at the pier, hand you the cruise plan, and explain what you will see during the crossing. Set sail for the Princes' Islands, which in Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman times used to be exile sites and a monastery region. Now only 4 of the total 9 Princes’ Islands are open for public settlement. Make your way to the most famous and beautiful of these islands, Büyükada, or 'Big Island'. The island measures only 5.4 km2 and is home to 7,300 inhabitants. Apart from emergency services, carriages and bicycles, no vehicles are allowed there. Spend the day exploring this idyllic island at your own pace. Stroll through the center and enjoy the sound of nature. Walk back in time to 1870 as you see the Merkez Eczanesi, a pharmacy. On Hamlaci Street 4, see the ruins of the villa where Trotsky lived in exile between 1929 and 1933. This is where he wrote his autobiography and 3 volumes on the "History of the Russian Revolution". If you'd like, rent a bike and cycle around the island, old school style. Fall in love with the magnificent old villas lining the streets. Explore the Greek Orthodox St. George Church, which rests atop the island's tallest hill. From here, you can enjoy fantastic views of Istanbul, the Marmara Sea, and the neighboring islands. Make a pitstop at the former Greek Orphanage - Europe’s largest and the world's 2nd largest wooden house. Once you've worked up an appetite, treat yourself to a delicious lunch in one of the restaurants around the harbor. Spend time swimming or sunbathing in one of the public beaches (Halk Plaji) or beach clubs. Hiking enthusiasts can walk around the island on foot. After you've had your fill of exploring, take the return ferry to Istanbul.