Heybeliada is the second largest of Istanbul’s beautiful Princes’ Islands and one of the city’s most cherished island retreats. Surrounded by the tranquil waters of the Sea of Marmara, the island is renowned for its fragrant pine forests, elegant Victorian-era wooden mansions, historic monasteries, scenic walking trails, and peaceful atmosphere.
For generations, Heybeliada has attracted visitors seeking fresh air, beautiful landscapes, and a slower pace of life. Its rich cultural heritage, important educational institutions, and picturesque coastline make it one of the most rewarding destinations among the Princes’ Islands.
History
The island has been inhabited since ancient times and was known in antiquity as Halki, a name believed to derive from the Greek word for copper due to the copper mines once found on the island. Its modern Turkish name, Heybeliada, means “Saddlebag Island,” referring to the island’s distinctive silhouette, which resembles a pair of saddlebags when viewed from the sea.
During the Byzantine period, Heybeliada became an important religious centre, with monasteries established on its hillsides. Like the neighbouring Princes’ Islands, it also served as a place of exile for members of the imperial family and prominent political figures.
Under Ottoman rule, the island evolved into a fashionable summer retreat for Greek, Armenian, Jewish, Levantine, and later Turkish residents. Elegant seaside villas, gardens, and pine groves transformed Heybeliada into one of Istanbul’s favourite holiday destinations.
The island also gained national importance through the establishment of several prestigious institutions, including the historic Naval High School, the famous Halki Greek Orthodox Theological School, and Türkiye’s first modern tuberculosis sanatorium, which opened in 1924.
Today, Heybeliada remains one of Istanbul’s most beloved islands, preserving its historical charm while welcoming visitors from around the world.
Geography
Heybeliada covers approximately 2.4 square kilometres and lies at the centre of the Princes’ Islands archipelago.
The island is characterised by four prominent hills:
- Değirmen Tepesi (Mill Hill), the island’s highest point
- Ümit Tepesi (Hope Hill)
- Makarios Hill
- Taşocağı Hill (Quarry Hill)
These hills are covered with pine forests and offer spectacular panoramic views of the Sea of Marmara, neighbouring islands, and the Istanbul skyline.
Several sheltered bays and small harbours surround the island, creating ideal conditions for swimming, boating, and waterfront relaxation.
Top Attractions
Halki Greek Orthodox Theological School
Located on Ümit Tepesi, the historic Halki Seminary is one of the island’s most significant landmarks. Founded in the nineteenth century, it became one of the most influential centres of Orthodox theological education in the world. Its impressive architecture and peaceful setting make it one of Heybeliada’s most recognisable sights.
Turkish Naval High School
One of Türkiye’s oldest and most prestigious military educational institutions, the Naval High School has played an important role in the country’s maritime history. Although access is limited, the historic campus contributes greatly to the island’s unique character.
Aya Yorgi Cliff Monastery
Perched above the coastline, this historic monastery offers magnificent sea views and a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by pine forests.
İsmet İnönü House Museum
The former summer residence of Türkiye’s second President, İsmet İnönü, has been preserved as a museum displaying personal belongings, photographs, and historical memorabilia.
Heybeliada Sanatorium
Opened in 1924, this was Türkiye’s first specialised tuberculosis sanatorium. Its location was carefully chosen for the island’s exceptionally clean air and peaceful natural surroundings, reflecting Heybeliada’s long-standing reputation as a health retreat.
Beaches and Swimming
Heybeliada offers several attractive beaches and swimming areas.
Popular beaches include Aqua Green Beach Club, Ada Beach Club, Alman Koyu (German Cove), and Değirmenburnu Nature Park, where visitors can enjoy crystal-clear waters, sunbathing, and beautiful coastal scenery during the summer months.
Rocky coves around the island also provide peaceful spots for swimming away from the larger crowds.
Things to Do
Heybeliada offers an excellent balance of relaxation, history, and outdoor recreation.
Visitors can explore forest trails, walk through quiet residential streets lined with historic wooden mansions, swim in the clear waters of the Sea of Marmara, enjoy cycling, visit museums and monasteries, or relax at waterfront cafés overlooking the harbour.
The island’s scenic walking routes lead to breathtaking viewpoints that are especially popular during sunrise and sunset.
Food and Drink
The island is home to numerous seafood restaurants, traditional meyhanes, cafés, and family-run eateries serving fresh local cuisine.
Popular dishes include grilled fish, calamari, octopus, meze platters, olive oil specialities, Turkish breakfasts, homemade pastries, and seasonal desserts. Waterfront restaurants around the harbour are particularly popular for leisurely lunches and evening meals with sea views.
Accommodation
Heybeliada offers boutique hotels, charming guesthouses, historic mansions converted into accommodation, and small family-run pensions.
Many visitors choose to stay overnight to experience the island’s peaceful atmosphere after the last ferry departs, while others visit as part of a day trip from central Istanbul.
Climate
Heybeliada enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean-influenced climate. Summers are warm, sunny, and ideal for outdoor activities, while winters are generally mild and wetter.
Spring and autumn are especially attractive seasons, offering comfortable temperatures, blooming vegetation, and fewer visitors.
Getting There
Regular ferry services connect Heybeliada with Kabataş, Eminönü, Bostancı, Kadıköy, and other ferry terminals across Istanbul.
The scenic journey across the Sea of Marmara is one of the highlights of visiting the island.
Motor vehicles are largely prohibited, preserving Heybeliada’s peaceful atmosphere. Visitors explore the island primarily on foot or by bicycle, while electric vehicles provide limited local transportation.
Nearby Attractions
Heybeliada serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the Princes’ Islands, including:
- Büyükada
- Burgazada
- Kınalıada
- Sedef Island
- Kaşık Island
- Değirmenburnu Nature Park
Island-hopping by ferry allows visitors to experience the distinctive character and landscapes of each island.
Travel Tips
Heybeliada is ideal for travellers seeking nature, history, relaxation, and authentic island life. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the island’s hills and forest paths.
The best time to visit is between April and October, when the weather is ideal for sightseeing, cycling, and swimming. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends, allowing visitors to enjoy the island’s peaceful atmosphere at its finest.
Taking time to explore beyond the harbour reveals hidden coves, historic villas, pine forests, and panoramic viewpoints that showcase why Heybeliada has remained one of Istanbul’s favourite island escapes for centuries.