Lonely Planet İstanbul Guide

aspect of island life, including geology, flora, religious heritage, food, architecture, music, festivals and literature. Interpretative panels and videos are in both Turkish and English, and there are objects galore to admire. To get to the museum from the iskele (dock), head towards the clock tower and then walk straight ahead before turning left into Çınar Caddesi, right at the first fork into Alparslan Caddesi and then right at the second fork into Malül Gazi Caddesi and onto Yılmaz Türk Caddesi. The museum is located next to the Yıldırımspor Kulübü Deneği sports club. It’s a pleasant 3km walk or a ₺ 35 fayton ride. Büyükada has some good swimming beaches, but you’ll need to pay for the privilege of using them. Try Nakibey, Yörükali and Viranbağ, where you’ll pay between ₺ 20 and ₺ 40 per day per person, including use of a sun lounge and umbrella. Bicycles are available for rent in several of the town’s shops ( ₺ 10/30 per hour/day). The fayton stand is to the left of the clock tower. Hire one for a 70-minute tour of the town, hills and shore ( büyük turu , ₺ 95) or a shorter tour ( küçük turu , ₺ 80).