Islands History, Cuisine, Transportation, Education, Hospital, Rental, Sale, Nightlife, Help, Job Postings

The Islands district is a unique part of Istanbul in the Marmara Sea and attracts attention with its historical, cultural texture and nature. The district consists of a total of 9 islands , also known as the Prince Islands , and only 5 of them are inhabited. The islands are an important attraction for both local and foreign tourists, as well as an ideal destination for those looking for peace as a quiet corner of Istanbul.

Islands District

• District Status: The Islands became a district of Istanbul in 1984.
• Surface area: Approximately 16.95 km².
• Population: The population of the district is approximately 16,000 as of 2024 (this number increases during the summer months).
• Islands : The nine islands that make up the district are:
  1. Buyukada
  2. Heybeliada
  3. In Burgazada
  4. Kinaliada
  5. Mother of Pearl Island
  6. Rabbit Island (also known as Fisherman’s Island)
  7. Spoon Island
  8. Yassiada
  9. In Sivria
• Islands Open to Habitation:

• • Buyukada
  • Heybeliada
  • In Burgazada
  • Kinaliada
  • Mother of Pearl Island

The other islands (Tavşan Adası, Sivriada, Yassıada, Kaşık Adası) are closed to settlement or are used as private property.

History of the Islands District

• Byzantine Period:
  • The islands were used as places of exile and religious retreat during the Byzantine period.
  • It is especially known for the monasteries where monks retreat.
• Ottoman Period:
  • They were used as summer resorts during the Ottoman period. They are residential areas where different ethnic groups (Greeks, Armenians, Jews and Turks) lived together peacefully.
• Republic Period:
  • From the beginning of the 20th century onwards, the Islands gained importance as a holiday resort with summer houses for Istanbul’s elite.

Places to Visit in the Islands

1. Buyukada

• The largest and most popular island.
• Aya Yorgi Church and Monastery: Located on the hill, this church is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims.
• Büyükada Greek Orphanage: It is the largest wooden building in Europe.
• Islands Museum: It is a museum that introduces the historical and natural heritage of the islands.

2. Heybeliada

• Seminary: An important educational institution for Orthodox Christianity, dating back to 1844.
• Mill Hill: A walking point with a wonderful view.
• Hagia Triada Monastery and Church: It is one of the oldest religious buildings of Heybeliada.

3. Burgazada

• Sait Faik Abasıyanık Museum: The house where the famous Turkish writer Sait Faik lived.
• It offers a quiet and calm atmosphere, providing an island experience intertwined with nature.

4. Kinaliada

• The closest island to Istanbul.
• Although it has less green space, it is famous for its beaches and summer houses.
• Surp Krikor Lusavoriç Church is located here.

5. Mother of Pearl Island

• It is the smallest settlement. It offers a special experience with its natural beauty and limited settlement.

Transportation in the Islands

• Transportation from Istanbul:
  • Transportation is provided by City Lines ferries from piers such as Kabataş, Kadıköy, Bostancı and Eminönü.
  • Faster transportation options are available with private motorboat services (Mavi Marmara, Dentur).
  • Water taxi service can also be preferred.
• Transportation within the Islands:
  • Motor vehicles are prohibited (only official and service vehicles are allowed).
  • Transportation is provided by bicycle, walking or electric vehicles.

Natural Beauties of the Islands

1. Pine Forests:
   • The most striking feature of the islands is that they are covered with pine forests. They are ideal for nature walks and cycling tours.
2. Beaches:
   • There are various public beaches and private businesses in Büyükada, Kınalıada and Heybeliada.
3. Scenic Hills:
   • Aya Yorgi Hill in Büyükada offers a magnificent view of the Marmara Sea.

Culture and Events

• Historical Mansions and Villas:
  • Magnificent mansions from the Ottoman and Republican periods reflect the history and culture of the islands.
• Summer Festivals:
  • Festivals and concerts held on the islands, especially in the summer months, attract great attention.
• Art and Literature:
  • It hosted important names of the literary world such as Sait Faik.

Economy and Life on the Islands

• The economy of the Islands is generally based on tourism, fishing and the service sector.
• During the summer months, the population density increases; many people vacation in their summer houses.
• With its quiet and natural life, it is an ideal settlement for those who want to escape from the big city.

History of the Islands

1. Byzantine Period (4th – 13th Centuries)

• the Princes’ Islands (Place of Exile of the Princes) during the Byzantine Empire .
• The Byzantine Empire sent political exiles and disgraced members of the empire to these islands.
  • For example, Theodora, wife of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I , was exiled to Büyükada.
• The islands were also used as religious retreats, where monks built monasteries and lived a solitary life.
• The Aya Yorgi Monastery in Büyükada is one of the important religious buildings of this period.

2. Ottoman Period (15th – 20th Centuries)

• After the conquest of Istanbul by the Ottomans in 1453, the Islands were annexed to Ottoman territory.
• During the Ottoman period, the Islands began to be used as a settlement and summer resort. The Greek, Armenian and Jewish populations were particularly concentrated here.
• During the Ottoman period, the islands had a cosmopolitan structure where different religious groups lived together.
  • The Büyükada Greek Orphanage was built during this period and has survived to the present day.

• 1. From the 16th century onwards, the Islands became a summer holiday resort for the Ottoman elite and European Levantines.

• • Magnificent mansions, summer houses and social life centers were built.

3. Republic Period (1923 – Present)

• During the Republican period, the Islands became an important part of Istanbul.
  1. Although the non-Muslim population on the Islands decreased in the 19th century, traces of Greek, Armenian and Jewish culture can still be seen.
• The islands have maintained their popularity as summer resorts and tourist areas.
• The Islands, which became a district of Istanbul in 1984, continue to develop as an important center of attraction in terms of both settlement and tourism.

Historical Buildings and Ruins on the Islands

1. Aya Yorgi Church and Monastery (Büyükada):
   • Founded as a religious retreat center during the Byzantine period, it is an important visiting point today.
2. Buyukada Greek Orphanage:
   • Built in the 19th century, this wooden building is the largest wooden structure in Europe.
3. Heybeliada Seminary:
   • It is an important educational institution of Orthodox Christianity, opened in the 19th century.
4. Old Churches and Monasteries:
   • There are ruins of churches from the Byzantine period in various parts of the islands.

Cultural and Historical Importance of the Islands

• Ethnic and Cultural Diversity:
  • The Islands, where Greeks, Armenians, Jews and Turks live together, reflect Istanbul’s cosmopolitan past.
• Natural and Historical Heritage:
  • The islands are a unique destination not only with their historical structures but also with their natural beauties and sea.
• Summer Culture and Holiday Center:
  • The summer lifestyle that has continued since the Ottoman period is a part of the social life of the Islands.

Current Situation of the Islands

The Islands continue to be one of the most special districts of Istanbul with their structures and culture bearing traces from different periods throughout history. The Islands, where tourism, nature, history and cultural riches come together, are an attractive place for local and foreign visitors. In the modern age, it stands out with both its tranquility and historical atmosphere.

Mayors of Adalar District from Past to Present

The Adalar district was established as an independent municipality affiliated to the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality in 1984. The first mayor was Recep Koç. The Adalar Mayors and their parties who have served since 1984 are as follows:

Period	Mayor	Party	Voting Rate
1984-1989	Recep Koc	MOTHER	51.13%
1989-1994	Recep Koc	MOTHER	40.73%
1994-1999	Can Esen	MOTHER	49.70%
1999-2004	Coskun Ozden	MOTHER	41.14%
2004-2009	Coskun Ozden	MOTHER	54.45%
2009-2014	Mustafa Farsakoglu	CHP	–
2014-2019	Atilla Aytac	CHP	–
2019-2024	Erdem Gul	CHP	–

Featured Flavors in the Islands’ Cuisine

Located in the middle of the Marmara Sea, it is a region famous for its historical and natural beauties, as well as attracting attention with its unique cuisine. The islands’ cuisine is enriched with seafood, olive oil dishes and local flavors, and has also been influenced by Greek, Armenian, Jewish and Turkish cuisines in this region where different cultures live together.

1. Seafood

The islands are identified with seafood due to their location in the middle of the Marmara Sea:

• Whiting, Bluefish, Turbot: These are among the fresh fish species caught around the islands. They are especially prepared on the barbecue or in the pan.
• Stuffed Mussels and Fried Mussels: One of the iconic dishes of the region.
• Calamari and Shrimp: These are the most preferred seafood in restaurants on the islands.

2. Olive Oil Dishes and Appetizer Culture

The cuisine of the islands is enriched with olive oil dishes and appetizers with a Mediterranean influence:

• Artichokes with Olive Oil: One of the most popular flavors of the islands.
• Sea Beans: Served with yogurt or lemon sauce.
• Eggplant Paste, Cretan Paste: They are indispensable for appetizer tables.

3. Pastries

Pastries stand out on the Islands due to the influence of different cultures:

• Börek and Poğaça: Can be bought fresh from local bakeries. Greek style herb börek is especially popular.
• Simit and Tea: An essential for breakfast on the beach.

4. Meat and Vegetable Dishes

The island cuisine is characterized by light and healthy dishes:

• Baked Vegetables: Spicy vegetable dishes blended with olive oil are common.
• Meat Dishes from Greek and Armenian Cuisine: Lamb and spicy sausages are frequently used.

5. Desserts

The cuisine of the islands is especially known for its desserts influenced by Greek and Turkish cuisine:

• Revani and Şekerpare: These desserts from the Ottoman cuisine are frequently preferred.
• Baklava and Lokma: Can be found in many patisseries on the islands.
• Mastic Pudding: It is a light and refreshing dessert.

Breakfast Culture on the Islands

The islands are an ideal area for those who want to have breakfast with a sea view:

• Local jams (such as strawberry, fig, orange) and honey are featured at breakfasts.
• Fresh cheeses and olives are indispensable for island breakfasts.
• Breakfast options are served in seaside venues.

Food and Beverage Venues of the Islands

• Büyükada Restaurants: Fresh fish and appetizers are served in sea view restaurants.
• Heybeliada Beach Venues: Offers a quieter and more peaceful dining experience.
• Kınalıada and Burgazada: Known for their small but delicious restaurants. Offering a less touristic, friendly dining atmosphere.

The Cultural Richness of the Islands’ Cuisine

The cuisine of the Islands reflects the gastronomy of different cultures living together. This rich cuisine, which is a combination of Greek, Armenian, Jewish and Turkish cuisines, offers flavors that you cannot find in other parts of Istanbul.

When you go to the Islands, you can enjoy seafood and appetizers and have a unique dining experience at the beachside restaurants.

 

Educational Opportunities on the Islands

• Due to its small population, the Adalar district has fewer educational institutions compared to other districts of Istanbul.
• There are public schools at kindergarten, primary, secondary and high school levels and a few private schools in the district.
• The Islands, where historical and cultural heritage is intense, attach importance to the transfer of these values in educational institutions.

Educational Institutions in the Islands

1. Public Schools

• Büyükada 125th Year Atatürk Secondary School:
  • It is located at a central point of Büyükada.
  • It offers public education at the secondary school level.
• Heybeliada Primary School:
  • Located in Heybeliada, this school serves primary school students.
• Kınalıada Primary and Secondary School:
  • It is the only public school in Kınalıada and offers education at both primary and secondary school levels.

2. High Schools

• Buyukada Anatolian High School:
  • It is the most important high school level educational institution in the Adalar district.
  • It offers students a wide range of curriculum and social opportunities.

3. Private Educational Institutions

• Islands Private Schools:
  • There are a few private educational institutions in the district. These schools, which generally provide boutique-style services, offer small classes and one-on-one education opportunities.
  • There are private kindergartens and primary schools operating in Büyükada.

4. Public Education Center

• Islands Public Education Center:
  • It offers various vocational courses and personal development programs for adults and youth in the district.
  • Programs such as language courses, handicrafts, and computer training are popular.

Challenges in Education

• Due to the geographical structure of the Islands, students may sometimes have to go to schools on other islands or to educational institutions on the mainland.
• Due to low population density, there are a limited number of teachers and teaching staff.

Cultural and Historical Awareness in Education

Education in the Adalar district is not limited to academic courses but is also blended with the historical, cultural and natural richness of the region:

• Historical Awareness: Students learn about the past by participating in activities related to the historical buildings and museums of the Islands.
• Nature Education: The natural beauty of the islands is used as a learning ground for nature-related lessons and projects.

Special Education and Support Programs

• In the Adalar district, services are also offered for students who need special education.
• Psychological Counseling and Guidance Services: Guidance services are provided for students in schools in the district.
• Istanbul Provincial Directorate of National Education Programs: Scholarships, support courses and project studies are organized for students on the Islands.

 

Health Services in the Islands

• Health services in the Adalar district are provided through state health institutions , private health centers and family health centers .
• Health institutions spread across the district generally provide primary healthcare services. In more serious cases, patients are referred to healthcare facilities in mainland Istanbul.
• sea ambulance plays an important role in emergency health services .

Health Institutions in the Adalar District

1. State Health Institutions

• Büyükada State Hospital (Princes Islands State Hospital):
  • It is the largest state health institution in the district and is located in Büyükada.
  • Services:
    • Polyclinic services (such as internal medicine, pediatrics, family medicine)
    • emergency room
    • Laboratory and imaging services
  • It is the first point of contact for most patients across the islands.
• Family Health Centers (FHC):
  • There is at least one family health centre on each island.
  • Services such as basic examinations, vaccinations, baby and pregnancy follow-ups are provided through health centers.
  • Featured family health centers:
    • Heybeliada Family Health Center
    • Kinaliada Family Health Center
    • Burgazada Family Health Center

2. Private Health Institutions

• Although private healthcare services are limited on the Islands, there are a few private clinics and practices, especially on Büyükada.
• These health centers are aimed at meeting the needs of short-term visitors.

3. Pharmacies

• There is at least one pharmacy on each island, and these pharmacies meet basic medicine needs.
• There are more pharmacies on Büyükada, but the number of pharmacies on the other islands is limited.

4. Emergency Health Services

• Emergency health services on the Islands are provided by 112 Emergency Health teams.
• Sea Ambulance:
  • Due to the geographical location, in severe cases, patients are transported to hospitals in Istanbul by sea ambulance .
  • This system, which accelerates healthcare access via Istanbul Airport and the Marmara Sea, is of vital importance.

Challenges in Healthcare

• Geographic Restrictions: The distance of the islands from the mainland of Istanbul makes access to healthcare services difficult.
• Limited Medical Staff: The number of doctors, especially specialists, is limited, requiring more complex cases to be referred to mainland hospitals.
• Population Variability: The increasing population during the summer months increases the burden on health institutions.

Services Under Development

• Telehealth Services: Remote health consultancy services are being developed for patients on the Islands.
• Mobile Health Services: Mobile health teams provide services in areas remote from residential areas.
• Restoration Projects: There are projects to increase the physical capacity of Büyükada State Hospital.

Access to Healthcare on the Islands

Health services on the Islands are generally organized to meet basic needs. However, in cases requiring more complex treatment, patients are usually referred to hospitals on the mainland of Istanbul. Sea ambulances are of critical importance in this process.

Although the islands are a region where serious health problems are relatively rare due to their calm structure and low population density, increasing the health capacity for the increasing tourist population in the summer months is an important area of development.

 

Public Institutions on the Islands

The main public institutions located in the Adalar district of Istanbul are:

• Adalar District Governorship : It carries out the civil administration of the district.
• Adalar Municipality : Provides local government services of the district.
• Adalar District National Education Directorate : Coordinates the education and training activities in the district.
• Adalar District Police Department : Responsible for the public order and security of the district.
  • Heybeliada Police Station : Provides security services in Heybeliada.
  • Burgazada Police Station : Provides security services in Burgazada.
  • Kınalıada Police Station : Provides security services in Kınalıada.
• Adalar District Gendarmerie Command : Carries out the security and public order services of the district.
• Adalar District Population Directorate : Carries out population registration and citizenship procedures.
• Adalar District Health Directorate : Responsible for the planning and execution of health services.
• Adalar Municipality Directorates : They operate as various service units of the municipality.
  • Disaster Directorate : Conducts disaster and emergency management services.
  • Directorate of Technical Affairs : Carries out construction, maintenance and repair works.
  • Directorate of Planning and Urbanization : Organizes planning and urbanization services.
  • Police Department : Provides public order and inspection services.

Islands in Terms of Tourism

• Natural Beauties : The islands are famous for their largely forested areas, beaches and sea views.
• Traffic-free Island Life : The ban on motorized vehicles provides a calm and peaceful environment. Transportation is provided by horse-drawn carriages (now electric vehicles) and bicycles.
• Historical and Cultural Richness : The islands are home to many historical structures such as mansions, monasteries and churches from the Ottoman period.

Aspects that attract tourists in Büyükada

1. Aya Yorgi Church and Monastery : This 6th-century hilltop church is famous for both religious visits and its views.
2. Islands Museum : An important center for those who want to discover the history of the islands.
3. Historical Mansions : Buildings such as Reşat Nuri Güntekin’s house and Mizzi Mansion.
4. Beaches : There are swimming areas in Büyükada such as Yörükali Beach and Princess Bay.

Aspects that attract tourists in Heybeliada

1. Heybeliada Seminary : This school, which is important in terms of Orthodox theology, is one of the symbols of the island.
2. Değirmenburnu Picnic Area : Ideal for picnics and walking in nature.
3. Historical Houses : Architectural structures that reflect the history of the island.
4. Beaches : There are popular beaches such as Aqua Green Beach.

Aspects that attract tourists in Burgazada

1. Sait Faik Abasıyanık Museum : A museum dedicated to the memories of the famous writer.
2. Hristos Hill and Monastery : The historical monastery on the hill can be visited for walking and views.
3. Kalpazankaya : Famous for its restaurant, it offers a pleasant meal accompanied by sea views.

Aspects that attract tourists’ attention in Kınalıada

1. Surp Krikor Lusavoriç Armenian Church : A historical church belonging to the Armenian community.
2. Beaches : Çınar Beach and Ayazma Beach.
3. Historical Buildings : Kınalıada Mosque and summer mansions attract attention.

Aspects that attract tourists’ attention on Sedef Island

• Private and Calm Atmosphere : Less crowded than other islands, Sedef Island appeals to those who want to spend time in touch with nature.

Tourist Activities

• Bicycle Tours : Exploring the Islands by bicycle is very popular.
• Hiking and Trekking : You can walk on natural trails and in forest areas.
• Sea and Sun : Beaches attract a lot of attention during the summer months.
• Photography : The historical texture and landscapes of the islands offer unique frames for photographers.

The islands are very popular among local and foreign tourists as a getaway close to Istanbul. It is a great destination to spend time surrounded by both history and nature.

 

Historical Buildings in the Adalar District

The Adalar district of Istanbul has a rich history and culture. There are many historical buildings on these islands, known as the pearl of the Marmara Sea. Here are the important historical buildings in the Adalar district:

1. Buyukada

• Aya Yorgi Monastery and Church (6th Century)
  Located on Yücetepe, the highest hill of Büyükada, this monastery is a religious and touristic attraction. Considered sacred to Christians, the church attracts many visitors, especially during Easter.
• Reşat Nuri Güntekin House
  The house where the famous Turkish writer Reşat Nuri Güntekin lived for a while is one of the cultural riches of Büyükada.
• museum
  , which displays the history and culture of the islands, presents works from the Ottoman and Republican periods.
• Mizzi Mansion
  This 19th-century mansion attracts attention with its architecture and history.
• Hamidiye Mosque,
  built in 1895 by Sultan Abdulhamid II, is one of the historical Islamic buildings of Büyükada.

2. Heybeliada

• Heybeliada Seminary (1844)
  This school, important in terms of Orthodox theology, is part of the Hagia Triada Monastery. It offers visitors a magnificent view.
• Beth Yaakov Synagogue
  Located on Heybeliada, this synagogue belongs to the Jewish community and reflects the multicultural structure of the island.
• Halki Sanatorium
  , built as Turkey’s first tuberculosis hospital, has historical importance.

3. Burgazada

• Sait Faik Abasıyanık Museum
  The house of the famous writer Sait Faik was converted into a museum after his death. It is of great importance in terms of Turkish literature and the cultural history of the island.
• Hristos Monastery
  Located on the hills of Burgazada, this monastery has a calm and peaceful atmosphere.
• Aya Yani Church
  , built in the 9th century, is one of the oldest religious buildings in Burgazada.

4. Kinaliada

• Surp Krikor Lusavoriç Armenian Church (1857)
  This church, which belongs to the Armenian community, is one of the historical and religious riches of Kınalıada.
• Kınalıada Mosque:
  Built in 1964, this modern mosque is where the islanders perform their Islamic worship.

5. Other Islands

• Sedef Island Villas and Natural Structures
  The historical villas located on Sedef Island adapt to the tranquil atmosphere of the island.
• Yassıada Historical Ruins
  The ruins of churches from the Byzantine period and the buildings used as courthouses from the 20th century reflect the history of Yassıada.
• Sivriada Monastery Ruins
  These ruins from the Byzantine period shed light on the history of the island.

Common Features of Historical Buildings

• Architectural Diversity : They contain architectural features from the Byzantine, Ottoman and Republican periods.
• Religious and Cultural Buildings : Churches, monasteries, mosques and synagogues reflect the multicultural past of the islands.
• Harmony with Nature : Many are located in forested areas or in locations with sea views.

With these historical structures and natural beauties, the islands offer visitors the opportunity to both trace the past and relax in a peaceful environment.

 

Job Opportunities in Adalar District Job Postings

The Adalar district of Istanbul experiences economic activity, especially during the summer months, due to increased tourism activities. The district’s limited use of motor vehicles and the unique dynamics of island life affect the type of job opportunities. Here is a general overview of job opportunities in the Adalar district:

1. Tourism Sector

The islands are frequently visited by local and foreign tourists during the summer season. This increases tourism-related job opportunities:

• Hotel and Accommodation : Job opportunities such as reception, cleaning and maintenance in boutique hotels and hostels.
• Food and Beverage : Positions such as waiter, chef, kitchen attendant in restaurants, cafes and beach businesses.
• Guidance : Local guiding and tour arrangement services.

2. Transportation and Freight

The transportation sector is important as transportation to the Islands is provided by sea:

• Maritime Transportation : Captaincy, crew or ticket sales on ferries, motorboats and water taxis.
• Intra-Island Transportation : Jobs such as electric vehicle driving and bicycle repair.

3. Service Sector

• Local Tradesmanship : Opportunity to work in businesses such as markets, bakeries, greengrocers, and fishmongers.
• Culture and Arts : Souvenir shops, art galleries and handmade goods.

4. Education and Health

Education and health services are of great importance for the permanent population living on the Islands:

• Education : Working in schools as teaching, administrative and support staff.
• Health : Jobs such as nursing, doctor, and patient care in health centers.

5. Cultural and Artistic Works

The islands are known for cultural events and festivals:

• Event Organization : Opportunities to work on events such as concerts, exhibitions, and theater plays.
• Creative Arts : Individual endeavors such as writing, painting, and crafts.

6. Construction and Maintenance

Renovation and maintenance projects are important to preserve the historical fabric of the islands:

• Renovation and Restoration : Job opportunities for the repair of historical mansions and houses.
• Maintenance Services : Landscaping, gardening and cleaning services.

7. Fishing and Marine

The islands’ connection with the sea also includes fishing and small-scale maritime activities.

8. Remote Work and Digital Jobs

The number of professionals working remotely is increasing among island residents:

• Freelance Jobs : Jobs such as software, design, consultancy.
• E-Commerce : Selling local products over the internet.

Seasonal Employment

Most of the job opportunities on the Islands are concentrated seasonally, with tourism-related work increasing in the summer months and a quieter period in the winter months.

Although the islands are a special place in terms of job opportunities with their natural beauty and touristic structure, job opportunities are limited and smaller in scale. For this reason, many island residents prefer to go to the center of Istanbul to work, especially in the winter months.

 

In Terms of Rental Apartments in the Islands

The Adalar district of Istanbul offers a variety of rental housing options, especially on popular islands such as Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada and Kınalıada. Prices of rental houses vary according to location, size, view and furnishings.

Rental Apartment Prices:

• Büyükada: Furnished 2+1 apartments with sea view cost between 26,000 TL and 45,000 TL per month.
• In Burgazada: Monthly rental prices for 2+1 and 3+1 flats with a view start from 20,000 TL and can go up to 300,000 TL.
• Heybeliada: 2+1 detached flats with a garden located in the centre cost around 42,500 TL per month.

Matters to be noted:

• Seasonality: Rental prices may increase in the summer months on the Islands due to increased demand. However, it is possible to find more affordable prices in the winter months.
• Transportation: Since motor vehicle use is limited on the Islands, the proximity of the residence to the pier and basic needs is important.
• Furnished/Unfurnished Options: Although rental apartments are usually offered furnished, there are also unfurnished options. Furnished apartments can be advantageous, especially for short-term rentals.

Rental Home Search Platforms:

• From the owner: You can access the current rental apartment listings in Adalar district.
• Hepsiemlak: You can find rental houses with the features you are looking for by filtering according to different criteria.
• Emlakjet: You can review rental housing listings in the Adalar region.

 

Shopping Opportunities in Adalar District

The Adalar district of Istanbul is famous for its historical and natural beauties and also offers a unique shopping experience. There are many shopping options on the islands that make up the district, from local boutiques to souvenir shops, from traditional bazaars to nostalgic stores. Here are the spots and details where you can shop in the Adalar district of Istanbul:

1. Gift Shops and Boutiques

• Buyukada Bazaar:
  • It is one of the largest and liveliest shopping spots on the islands.
  • You can find magnets, handmade jewelry, china products, ceramics and sea-themed souvenirs.
• Local Boutiques:
  • There are many small boutiques in Büyükada, Heybeliada and Burgazada.
  • Offering hand-woven textiles, antiques and specially designed accessories, these boutiques offer visitors unique options.
• Wooden Toys and Sea Themed Products:
  • Handmade wooden toys and sailor figures are among the souvenirs unique to the islands.

2. Food and Local Products

• Jam and Turkish Delight:
  • The islands are famous for their jams. Especially fig, sour cherry and orange jams are frequently preferred by visitors.
  • Desserts such as Turkish delight and almond paste can also be purchased as gifts.
• Wine and Olive Oil:
  • Locally produced olive oils and boutique wines can be found on the islands, with shops producing specialty products especially on Büyükada and Heybeliada.

3. Crafts and Antiques

• Buyukada Art Workshops:
  • Small art studios and galleries offering paintings, ceramics and handcrafted goods are interesting for both shopping and exploring.
• Antique Shops:
  • The islands are famous for their shops where you can find nostalgic items and antiques. Especially old books, paintings and furniture attract attention.

4. Traditional Markets

• Buyukada Public Market:
  • The weekly market sells local products such as fresh fruit, vegetables, olives, spices and cheese.
  • Souvenirs and textile products can also be found in the market.
  • Market Day: Wednesday.
• Heybeliada Market:
  • It offers a similar variety of products but on a smaller scale.
  • Market Day: Thursday.

5. Marine Products

• Fish Markets:
  • Seafood is very popular on the islands. You can shop at local markets, especially those selling fresh fish and seafood.

6. Bookstores and Cultural Stores

• Nostalgic Bookstores:
  • There are nostalgic bookstores selling old books and magazines in Büyükada and Burgazada.
  • Publications and souvenir books specific to the island culture are of interest.

7. Bicycle and Island Needs

• Bike Shops:
  • Since bicycles are frequently used for transportation on the islands, shops that rent and sell bicycles can be added to the shopping list.
• Beach Equipment:
  • For those who want to spend time on the island’s beaches during the summer months, there are small shops selling products such as beach umbrellas, slippers and swimsuits.

8. Food, Beverage and Cafes

• Local Flavors:
  • The islands are famous for delicacies such as fresh seafood and island jams.
  • You can experience fresh flavors while sitting in cafes and enjoying the island atmosphere.

Transportation and Shopping Tips

• Reaching the Islands by Ferry:
  • You can easily reach Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada and Kınalıada from Istanbul by ferry and motorboat services.
• Prefer Handmade Products:
  • Choosing handmade souvenirs reflects the island culture better.

The islands offer a unique shopping experience, offering both traditional and modern products. From souvenir shops to markets, from nostalgic bookstores to local boutiques, there are shopping spots to suit every taste.

 

Islands District and Internet

The Adalar district of Istanbul may occasionally experience some difficulties with internet access and infrastructure due to its location in the Sea of Marmara. However, in recent years, especially due to the increasing population and tourism, internet infrastructure has been improved. Here are the details about the internet situation in the Adalar district:

1. General Internet Infrastructure

• Fiber Internet:
  • On larger islands such as Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada and Kınalıada, fiber internet infrastructure is largely available.
  • Fiber access is widespread, especially in central areas. However, fiber access may be limited in more remote or mountainous areas of the islands.
• ADSL and VDSL:
  • ADSL and VDSL services come into play in regions where fiber infrastructure is not available.
  • While ADSL speeds are generally slower, VDSL technology offers reasonable speeds in many areas of the islands.
• Mobile Internet:
  • Mobile internet access is generally good on the Islands. 4.5G service is offered by the three major operators (Turkcell, Vodafone, Türk Telekom).
  • However, during busy summer seasons, mobile internet speed may decrease as the number of users increases.

2. Internet for Home and Work

• Home Internet Connection:
  • Home internet on the islands is typically offered by providers such as Türk Telekom, TurkNet, Superonline and Vodafone.
  • Which provider offers better performance may vary depending on home location.
• Internet for Workplaces:
  • Businesses serving the tourism sector, such as restaurants, cafes and hotels, generally prefer high-speed internet.
  • It is easier to find high-speed internet in the central areas of the islands.

3. Free Wi-Fi Hotspots

• Cafes and Restaurants:
  • Many cafes and restaurants on the Islands offer free Wi-Fi to their customers.
  • This service is common in busy tourist areas such as Büyükada and Heybeliada.
• Municipal Wi-Fi Service:
  • Free Wi-Fi hotspots provided by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) are located especially in squares and ferry piers.

4. Internet Status in the Tourism Season

• During the summer months, both mobile and fixed internet connections may slow down due to the density of tourists.
• For faster and uninterrupted connection, you can benefit from additional packages from local Wi-Fi providers or mobile operators.

5. Internet Speeds

• Fiber Speeds:
  • In areas with fiber internet connection, speeds vary between 50-100 Mbps.
• ADSL and VDSL Speeds:
  • In ADSL connections, speeds can vary between 8-16 Mbps.
  • VDSL connections can offer speeds of 24-35 Mbps, depending on the infrastructure.
• Mobile Internet Speeds:
  • Although mobile operators generally provide speeds of 30-50 Mbps with 4.5G, this speed may drop during crowded periods.