Istanbul is an unforgettable city—but step outside it for a day, and you’ll find peaceful islands, mountain-backed towns, and historic gems from the Ottoman Empire’s early years. Whether you’re after scenic ferry rides or UNESCO-listed mosques, these day tours from Istanbul offer the perfect city break with cultural depth and fresh air.
In this guide, we highlight three top destinations: the Princes’ Islands, Bursa, Dan Edirne—including what to see, how to get there, and when to go.
🏝️ 1. Princes’ Islands (Büyükada): A Seaside Escape by Ferry
Just an hour by ferry from Istanbul, Büyükada is the largest of the Princes’ Islands and a favorite summer escape.
🚢 Tour Highlights:
- Car-free streets with horse-drawn carriages or bikes
- Ottoman mansions and pine forests
- Monastery of St. George (with panoramic views)
- Fresh seafood by the waterfront
📅 Best Time to Visit:
Late spring to early autumn (May–October) for swimming, shade, and relaxed cafés.
⏱️ Travel Time:
- 1–1.5 hours by ferry from Kabataş, Eminönü, or Bostancı
🧭 CTA:
👉 [Book a Princes’ Islands Day Tour with Hotel Pickup →]
🕌 2. Bursa: The First Capital of the Ottoman Empire
History, mountains, and thermal baths await in Bursa, a UNESCO-listed city just south of Istanbul.
🏰 Tour Highlights:
- Green Mosque and Green Tomb: Ottoman architectural treasures
- Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami): 20 domes and spiritual calm
- Silk Market and Koza Han: Historic shopping
- Optional: Ride a cable car (teleferik) up Mount Uludağ
📅 Best Time to Visit:
Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Winter is great for snow-covered Uludağ excursions.
⏱️ Travel Time:
- ~2–3 hours via ferry + bus or direct private tour van
- Most day tours include lunch and a guide
🕌 CTA:
👉 [Book a Bursa Day Tour from Istanbul (With Ottoman Sites + Lunch) →]
🕊️ 3. Edirne: Imperial Mosques & Balkan Charm
Once the capital of the Ottoman Empire before Istanbul, Edirne is filled with elegant mosques, bridges, and Balkan influences.
🕌 Tour Highlights:
- Selimiye Mosque: Masterpiece by Mimar Sinan (UNESCO-listed)
- Old Ottoman Bridges and riverside walks
- Local Edirne cuisine: ciğer tava (fried liver), almond desserts
- Ottoman bazaars and peaceful town vibe
📅 Best Time to Visit:
Spring and summer for festivals and river walks. Fall is also ideal for quieter exploration.
⏱️ Travel Time:
- 2.5 to 3 hours each way by highway
- Best visited with a full-day guided tour
🏛️ CTA:
👉 [Explore Edirne on a Guided Day Trip from Istanbul →]
🧳 Tips for Planning Day Trips from Istanbul
- Book early in high season: Bursa and Büyükada are popular in summer
- Wear layers for early mornings and coastal breezes
- Join a tour with hotel pickup to avoid transport stress
- Bring a power bank + water bottle
🌍 See More Than Just Istanbul
A well-rounded Istanbul itinerary includes at least one day trip. Whether you ferry to peaceful islands, trace the footsteps of sultans, or explore hidden Ottoman capitals, these destinations add cultural richness to your journey.
🚐 Start your escape:
👉 [View All Day Tours from Istanbul →]
👉 [Bundle Day Trips + Bosphorus Cruise + Palace Entry for Savings →]