Where Is Burgazada and What Makes It Special?

Burgazada is one of the most distinctive of Istanbul’s Princes’ Islands. After Büyükada and Heybeliada, it is the third-largest island in the archipelago. Measuring approximately two kilometres across, the island is ideal for day trips and offers an atmosphere very different from central Istanbul with its historic mansions, waterfront, pine-covered areas and bays opening onto the Sea of Marmara.

The island’s most prominent elevation is Bayrak Hill. Some of Burgazada’s best-known locations include Kalpazankaya, Madam Marta Bay, historic religious buildings and places associated with the Turkish writer Sait Faik Abasıyanık. The area around Kalpazankaya is particularly impressive at sunset.

History of Burgazada

Like Istanbul’s other Princes’ Islands, the history of Burgazada extends back to the Byzantine period. The island was known by different names in the past, the best known of which was Antigoni. Used throughout history for retreat, religious life and settlement, the island later became one of Istanbul’s important summer destinations.

During the Ottoman period, Burgazada’s residential character developed, with wooden mansions, waterfront houses and gardens shaping the island’s appearance. Today, visitors walking through its streets can still see architectural traces from different periods.

One of the most important cultural figures associated with Burgazada is Sait Faik Abasıyanık. The celebrated Turkish short-story writer spent a significant part of his life on Burgazada, and the island’s residents, fishermen, the Sea of Marmara and everyday island life featured prominently in his work. Burgazada is therefore not only a leisure destination but also an important place in Istanbul’s literary history.

How to Get to Burgazada by Sea Taxi

Burgazada is reached by sea. Scheduled ferry services operate towards the Princes’ Islands from various points in Istanbul. When using scheduled public transport, passengers travel according to the available departure times, stops and ferry timetable.

Although different public sea transport options are available from both the Asian and European sides of Istanbul, Burgazada Sea Taxi provides a private alternative for visitors who prefer a more flexible schedule. Departure and return times can be organised according to your travel plan.

A private boat transfer can be particularly convenient during busy summer days and weekends, for hotel guests or for visitors who need to follow a specific schedule.

How Does Burgazada Sea Taxi Work?

When arranging a Burgazada Sea Taxi transfer, the departure point, travel date, time, number of passengers and any luggage information are confirmed. After evaluating the sea conditions and suitable boarding point, the boat and route are planned accordingly.

Private transfers to Burgazada can be planned from suitable locations such as Kuruçeşme, Bebek, the Bosphorus, the Asian Side and Galataport. For guests who prefer not to depend on scheduled ferry services, private sea transportation provides a more flexible travel programme.

For information about Büyükada, Heybeliada, Kınalıada and other private island transfers in Istanbul, visit our Princes’ Islands page below.

Return to Istanbul with Burgazada Sea Taxi

Scheduled ferries or a private sea taxi can be used for the return journey from Burgazada to Istanbul. When travelling by scheduled ferry, the return journey must follow the available departure timetable. During summer, weekends and public holidays, the islands can become particularly busy, so planning your return in advance can be useful.

With Burgazada Sea Taxi, your pickup time from Burgazada can be arranged in advance. A direct transfer to a suitable arrival point in Istanbul provides valuable flexibility for guests with hotel connections, business appointments, dinner reservations or onward travel plans.

What to Do in Burgazada

After arriving in Burgazada, you can explore the island centre, walk along the waterfront and discover historic mansions and island streets. Kalpazankaya is one of Burgazada’s best-known locations, particularly for its views and sunset atmosphere.

The area around Madam Marta Bay, coastal routes and quieter parts of the island offer different options for visitors who want to spend more time by the sea. Burgazada’s strong association with Sait Faik is another characteristic that distinguishes the island from many other destinations in Istanbul.

Burgazada Sea Taxi

For a private boat transfer from Istanbul to Burgazada or from Burgazada back to Istanbul, prepare your departure point, travel date, preferred time, number of passengers and luggage information. Your Burgazada Sea Taxi transfer can then be planned according to your journey.