Burgaz Island Travel Guide

Burgaz Island is a hidden gem off the coast of Turkey, waiting to be explored. Located in the Aegean Sea, it's easily accessible by ferry from the nearby town of Cesme.

The island has a rich history, with archaeological findings dating back to the Byzantine era. This is evident in the remains of a 17th-century monastery on the island.

Burgaz Island is a tranquil retreat, perfect for those seeking a peaceful getaway. Its crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand beaches will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

The island's scenic landscape is dotted with pine trees, adding to its natural charm.

Getting to Burgaz Island is relatively easy, and you can catch ferries from piers in Istanbul.

Burgaz Island is located in the Princes' Islands, Istanbul, so you'll need to head there first.

You can depart from piers like Bostancı, Eminönü, or Kadıköy, all of which offer ferry services to the island.

Just remember to check the ferry schedules in advance, as they might vary depending on the day and season.

Burgaz island has limited accommodation options, with only a few nice hotels available.

The hotels that stand out are Mehtap 45 Boutique Hotel, Pyrgos Hotel, and Villa Andrea, but they're not listed on popular booking sites.

You'll need to book these hotels directly through a message or call.

Booking an Airbnb might be a better option, as there are many available from budget-friendly private rooms to luxurious houses.

Burgaz Island is a treasure trove of activities that cater to all interests and preferences. You can take a leisurely bike ride around the island, exploring its charming neighborhoods and stunning sea views.

Swimming in the clear waters of the island is a must-do, with numerous small beaches where you can take a refreshing dip. Be sure to explore the island's historic architecture, including its beautiful old Ottoman houses and mansions.

The Greek Orthodox Monastery of St. George is a 19th-century gem that offers breathtaking views of the sea, the island, and Istanbul in the distance. You can visit the monastery and its garden for free, making it a great addition to your itinerary.

Traditional Turkish cuisine is a highlight of Burgaz Island, with small cafes and restaurants serving up fresh seafood dishes and famous Turkish breakfasts. Don't miss out on trying the local delicacies!

The island's lush pine forests are perfect for hiking, with several trails that take you through the scenic landscape and offer stunning views of the sea and surrounding islands. Watching the sunset from the island's western and southern shores is a truly unforgettable experience.

If you're looking for some adventure, you can rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and explore the island's coastline, or try your hand at windsurfing and kitesurfing in the open waters around the island.

Burgaz Island is located just off the coast of Istanbul, Turkey, and can be easily reached by ferry from the city's Kartal district.

Getting to the island is relatively straightforward, with a ferry service running frequently throughout the day.

The ferry ride itself takes about 20 minutes, giving you time to take in the views of the city skyline and the sea.

You can buy ferry tickets at the Kartal district ferry terminal, and it's a good idea to get there a bit early to secure a spot on the next ferry.

Once you arrive on the island, you'll find a small but charming beach where you can relax and soak up the sun.

The island's beach is a peaceful oasis, surrounded by pine trees and with calm, clear waters perfect for swimming.

Be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the sun can be strong on the island.

There's also a small cafe on the island where you can grab a snack or drink, but be aware that opening hours may be limited.

If you're planning to visit the island's ancient ruins, it's a good idea to bring a map or guidebook to help you navigate the site.

The ruins are a fascinating glimpse into the island's rich history, and it's worth taking the time to explore them.

Burgaz Island is a treasure trove of historical and natural wonders. Sait Faik Abasıyanık Museum is a must-visit, showcasing the island's rich cultural heritage.

Aya Yorgi Church and Aya Yani Church are two of the many ancient churches that dot the island's landscape. These churches are a testament to the island's rich history and spiritual significance.

Bayrak Tepe and Hristos Monastery are two other places that should be on your list. Bayrak Tepe offers breathtaking views of the surrounding waters, while Hristos Monastery is a serene oasis amidst the island's bustling activity.

If you're looking to cool off, Kalpazankaya Beach, Madam Martha Bay, and Çamakya Beach are the perfect spots for a refreshing swim.

Burgaz Island is a hidden gem, and its peaceful atmosphere is a major draw.

The island's historical and touristic places, such as Aya Yorgi Church, are definitely worth exploring.

You can easily get to the island by ferry from Istanbul, and it's a good idea to check the schedules in advance to plan your trip.

If you're planning to visit on weekends or holidays, arriving early is a great way to avoid the crowds.

Renting a bicycle is a fantastic way to get around the island, especially since it's mostly pedestrian-friendly.

The island's natural beauty is simply stunning, and there are plenty of walking routes that offer breathtaking views.

Burgazada's beaches are a must-visit, and don't forget to bring your swimwear so you can enjoy the water.

The island's restaurants and cafes serve up delicious seafood and traditional Turkish cuisine, so be sure to stop by for a bite to eat.

Burgazada, the third-largest island in the Adalar archipelago, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. It was home to an enormous castle built by Antigone, Alexander the Great's general.

Aya Yani Church, built in 867, occupies a significant place in the island's history. This ancient church has survived to this day, despite being restored several times, with the last renovation taking place in 1896.

The island's name "Burgazada" translates to "island-fortress" in Greek, reflecting its strategic importance throughout history. The strait surrounding the island has been known as Erebinthus since ancient times.

The island's population has fluctuated over the years, with around 2000 people living there in the offseason and over 10,000 in the summer. Many wealthy Jewish families settled on the island in the 20th century, building beautiful villas and houses that still stand today.

The island's Monastery of Christ, situated on the highest hill, dates back to a time when the island was an important monastic center. Today, it stands as a ruin with a monument in the garden and a "holy" spring nearby.

The Sait Faik Museum is a must-visit for literature lovers. It's located in Burgazada, a part of the author's life.

Sait Faik Abasıyanık was a significant figure in Turkish Literature, known for his short stories. His house in Burgazada has been converted into a museum.

You can visit the museum for free, thanks to the author's bequest. The museum is open between 10:30-17:00, but keep in mind it's closed on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays.

Inside the museum, you'll find Sait Faik's personal belongings, postcards, photographs, and letters.

Burgazada has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with a castle built by Antigone, Alexander the Great's general, giving the island its name.

The island was once home to an enormous castle, which was later known as "Burgaz" in Greek.

Methodios, a respected patriarch of the Orthodox Church, was imprisoned in a cellar on the island, and today the Ayios Ioannis Church stands on the site of this crypt.

Historically, the island was inhabited mainly by Greeks, and in the 20th century, many Jews from Istanbul settled here.

The strait surrounding the island has been known as Erebinthus since ancient times, and the Byzantines called this place Therebintos or Panormos.

The local population now closely resembles the rest of Istanbul, following the decline of Turkey's minorities.

Burgazada has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The island was home to an enormous castle built by Antigone, Alexander the Great's general.

The castle was later named after Antigone and became known as "Burgaz" in Greek. This name still stands today, and it's a testament to the island's ancient heritage.

Aya Yani Church, built in 867, occupies an important place in the island's history. It's a must-visit attraction on the island.

The church has been restored several times, with the last renovation taking place in 1896. Today, it stands as a beautiful reminder of the island's past.

The Monastery of Christ, situated on the highest hill in the northern part of the island, is another historical site worth visiting. Unfortunately, it's now in ruins, but it's still an interesting piece of history.

Burgazada was also a popular summer retreat for wealthy Istanbulites in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They built ornate mansions and villas on the island, which still stand today.

The island's popularity as a summer destination continued throughout the 20th century, and it remains a popular spot for summertime getaways. Today, the island is a peaceful and quiet retreat, with a population of approximately 1,700 residents.