Marmara Islands Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and natural attractions, best things to do, food and drink scene, local culture, safety, and logistics of Marmara Islands, Turkey.


Introduction to Marmara Islands

Marmara Islands is a group of nine picturesque islands located in Southern Marmara, Turkey, surrounded by the sea of Marmara. The islands are a perfect escape for tourists seeking to explore the off-beaten path while basking in the sun and enjoying fresh seafood. The islands’ beauty ranges from lush forests to sandy beaches and enchanting coves boasting crystal clear waters. Marmara Islands also have a rich cultural and historical heritage, making them a historical landmark worth exploring. This guide gives you a comprehensive tour of Marmara Islands, covering everything you need to know about the group of islets.

List of Places to Visit in Marmara Islands

When it comes to Marmara Islands’ places to visit, the islets boast various attractions. Here is a list of the top places to visit on the islets:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Marmara Islands’ historical and cultural landmarks are a testament to the region’s rich heritage. Here are four must-visit cultural attractions:

  1. Museum of the Sea: This museum is located on the Buyukada island and offers an excellent chance to explore the region’s rich maritime history. It boasts collections of ancient marine equipment and various sea creatures’ fossils.
  2. Hagia Yorgo Church: This historical Orthodox stone church dates back to the Byzantine Empire era, and it’s revered as an essential landmark on the island of Heybeliada.
  3. Nizam Gülü Mansion: Located on the island of Büyükada, this mansion is an exquisite architectural treasure. With its French-style design, it is a lovely spot for tourists to explore the island’s wealthy history and culture.
  4. Troçki Evi: Located on the Buyukada island, Troçki Evi is a museum that offers a comprehensive exhibition on Leon Troçki, the celebrated political leader, and the impact of his works on global politics.

Natural Attractions of Marmara Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For tourists looking for fun outdoor activities, Marmara Islands offer some of the best island experiences. Here are the top natural attractions to see on the island:

  1. Sedef Island: This island offers the best scenic views, with its wide sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing and enjoying the cool ocean water. It also boasts cliff edges from famed sea vistas and sunsets.
  2. Yücekale: Yücekale is the highest point on the island of Marmara, offering an unforgettable view of Marmara sea from atop. From the top of the hill, tourists can capture some memorable moments to take back home.
  3. Aya Yorgi Church: Aya Yorgi Church is situated on the Heybeliada island, visitors have to trek up 30 minutes through a thick verdue track to reach the pinnacle. The final stop offers a fantastic vista to the visitors.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Marmara Islands

Marmara Islands is an adventure hub, offering numerous hiking and biking trails for adventure enthusiasts. The hiking trails wind through the island’s dense forests and meanders through coves along the coasts, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the islands better. One of the most popular spots for hiking and biking routes is its mountainous terrain, which has the most scenic biking and hiking routes.

Best Things to Do in Marmara Islands: Activities and Tours

Marmara Islands are renowned for their diverse activities and tours. Below is a list of the best things to do on the islets:

  1. Boat tours: Exploring the waters surrounding the Marmara Islands is one of the best ways to experience the island holistically. There are various boat tours available on the islands, ranging from privately chartered to communal boating experiences.
  2. Horse Riding: Horse riding is popular in the Marmara Islands, offering a fantastic way for tourists to explore the beautiful islets. There are plenty of riding stables located on the islands’ beaches where tourists have the opportunity to enjoy horseback riding along the seashores.
  3. Swimming: The Marmara Islands are surrounded by beautiful beaches with crystal clear waters, and swimming on the beaches is a top activity to do on the island.
  4. Visit the art pods: Art pods were established in various corners of the island to offer tourists the chance to see different artists’ artworks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Marmara Islands

Visitors who plan to stay on the island for a week can incorporate the following highlights into their itinerary:

Day Activities
1 Arrival, bike rental, and explore nearby areas
2 Visit museums and historical places
3 Swim in the beaches, boat tour
4 Go horseback riding, hiking, and biking
5 Art Pods.
6 Visit the magnificent natural sites: waterfall, Yücekale, Aya Yorgi Church, and Ayios Georgios
7 Checkout local markets and go souvenir shopping by experiencing the local culture.

Food and Drink Scene of Marmara Islands

The Marmara Islands are a food lover’s paradise, offering vast regional cuisines, including seafood and meat dishes. Some of the must-try dishes and beverages in Marmara Islands include:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Lakerda: This smoked bonito is a delicacy in Marmara Islands, usually served with onions, lemon juice, olives, and fresh bread. It is best enjoyed from a seaside restaurant while looking over the ocean.
  2. Midye Dolma: Midye Dolma is a popular local street food consisting of stuffed mussels with rice, onion, and herbs. They can be found in local chiosks and carts.
  3. Sütlaç: This rice pudding is a savory treat in Turkey, made with rice, sugar, milk, and cinnamon, enjoyed as a dessert.

Local Beverages

  1. Raki: This famous aniseed-flavored drink is pronounced as the Turkish Lion’s milk, and it’s usually drunk with mezes, appetizers, or seafood meals.
  2. Turkish Tea: This delicious tea is typically served with sugar and sometimes with mint leaves or lemon. It is a local favorite and ideal for an afternoon break.

Where to Stay in Marmara Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The Marmara Islands offer a variety of accommodations ranging from guesthouses, hostels to luxurious hotels.

Budget-friendly Accommodation

  1. Odalıköyü: This budget-friendly hotel is located in the small town of Odalikoyu, a scenic place with a well-manicured garden and close to the beaches.
  2. Uğur Butik Otel: The hotel is located within walking distance from the Marmara Islands’ port, with rooms that offer stunning sea views.

Mid-Range Accommodation

  1. Limak Caddebostan: Located on the island of Caddebostan, the hotel boasts spacious rooms with panoramic sea views from the balconies.
  2. Iskele Butik Otel: Located on the island of Büyükada, this family-owned property offers comfortable accommodation in a tranquil environment.

Luxury Accommodation

  1. Marta Beach Club: It’s situated on the Bursa islands, offering luxurious accommodation in a serene and tranquil environment.
  2. Nidya Hotel: Located on the island of Heybeliada, it’s a luxurious hotel offering an ultra-luxe experience with stunning ocean views.

What to Buy in Marmara Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Souvenir shops in Marmara Islands are the perfect places for visitors to get a taste of the local culture. Some of the things to buy to take back home include:

  1. Handmade ceramics: Visitors can purchase ceramics from local shops, decorated with intricate patterns, and inspired by the natural elements of Marmara Islands.
  2. Turkish Delight: This sweet treat is a favorite among tourists and locals alike, with various flavors to choose from. it is a perfect gift for loved ones at home.
  3. Jewelry and Traditional Clothing: Local jewelry shops sell traditional Turkish ornaments like necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. They are intricate and come in various designs and colors.

Local Culture and Customs of Marmara Islands

Marmara Islands has a unique culture influenced by its European and Asian mix. They are famous for their traditional Turkish handcrafts, especially pottery and textile production. Locals also hold Mehteran music festivals during summer, and the country’s Independence Day is celebrated in spectacular style.

Best Time to Visit Marmara Islands

The best time to visit Marmara Islands is between April and October. During this time, the weather is pleasant and perfect for touring the island. The months of August and September are peak seasons for tourists visiting the island.

Do’s and Don’ts of Marmara Islands

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and culture.
  2. Wear modest clothing while visiting religious sites.
  3. Try to learn and speak some basic Turkish phrases.

Don’t:

  1. Do not forget to bring some cash; not all shops in Marmara accept credit cards.
  2. Do not litter or leave waste behind; it is detrimental to the environment.
  3. Do not go topless while in public.

Safety and Health

Safety in Marmara Islands

Marmara Islands is a relatively safe place to visit, with low crime rates. However, tourists should always be vigilant and cautious of their belongings and surroundings. Visitors are also encouraged to purchase adequate travel insurance before embarking on any trip.

Health in Marmara Islands

Marmara Islands has a well-developed healthcare system with reputable hospitals and clinics. It is recommended always to have comprehensive travel health insurance before embarking on a trip to the islands. Tourists are also encouraged to adhere to the necessary Covid-19 guidelines required by healthcare providers.

Getting to Marmara Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Marmara Islands are accessible through various means of transportation, including bus, ferry services, and private boats.

Airports Near Marmara Islands

The nearest international airport to Marmara Islands is Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, located in Istanbul. Visitors can board buses, take a taxi or opt for a private shuttle to reach the islands’ gateway.

Bus Stations Near Marmara Islands

There are two ferry ports from which to access Marmara Islands: Pendik and Kartal. Both these ports are well-connected via bus stations with the rest of Istanbul. Visitors can board a bus to either of the ports from Harem Bus Station or Kadiköy Bus Station in Istanbul.

Other Options

Visitors who have private boats or yachts can access Marmara Islands through the Yalova pedestrian ferry. Visitors can also board local or private tour boats and get to Marmara Islands either from Bostancı, Beşiktaş, or Kartal in Istanbul, depending on the availability.

How to Get Around in Marmara Islands

The most convenient and affordable way to get around Marmara Island is by renting bicycles or scooters. Visitors can also opt for the island’s traditional transport, which is by horse carriages. Alternatively, visitors can walk around to enjoy the islets’ breathtaking beauty.

Where to Go Next from Marmara Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors who plan to visit other nearby attractions and destinations after their tour of Marmara Islands can consider some of the following:

  1. Istanbul: Istanbul is a vibrant city, located only a 40-minute ferry ride from Marmara Islands, and is a must-see for first-time visitors to Turkey.
  2. Bursa: Bursa is located near Marmara Islands and offers an enchanting experience for culture and history enthusiasts.
  3. Troy: Troy is a significant historical site that is easily accessible from Marmara Islands by ferry.

Conclusion

Marmara Islands is an enchanting destination with a rich cultural heritage and numerous attractions for visitors. This guide should be your go-to if you’re planning a trip to the islands. From cultural landmarks, natural attractions and scenic beauty, to outdoor adventures and local cuisines, the Marmara Islands have something for everyone. So, pack your bags and explore one of Turkey’s hidden gems on the Marmara Islands.

Local marble was finished at destination, such as the Great Ludovisi sarcophagus in Rome Local marble was finished at destination, such as the Great Ludovisi sarcophagus in Rome The sea was also called The sea was also called "Propontis"


    Avşa
    Marmara (island)