The ferry drops passengers off at four different islands: Büyükada, Kınalıada, Burgazada and Heybeliada, with Büyükada—the big island—being the most popular spot. There are no vehicles ...

Only four of the nine islands are accessible: Büyükada, Kınalıada, Heybeliada, and Burgazada. A boat ride to the islands takes 1.5 hours, so plan accordingly if traveling with young children.

“Honestly, we are both happy and hopeful,” Vingas added. The Halki Seminary, located on the island of Halki (Heybeliada) was closed in 1971 by the Turkish government, after the Turkish Parliament ...