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With the crowd of the city, busy schedules and hot weather, the idea of getting away from İstanbul can be quite appealing these days. A wonderful weekend getaway can leave your fatigue behind and have a truly enjoyable experience. If you are thinking about where to go near İstanbul for a day, Heybeliada with its cultural richness and lush green beauty, should definitely be your first choice! There is so much to see, scrumptious food, easy access and priceless scenery. What more could you ask for?

A wonderful, full day is waiting for you at Heybeliada, the second-largest island in İstanbul after Büyükada. If you are ready to get lost on a bike through the streets of Heybeliada, a home to a multitude of cultures, then let's get started! Let's take a closer look at Heybeliada, where you can escape stress, even if it's just for a day and unwind with its magnificent natural beauty.

Places to Visit in Heybeliada

Heybeliada is one of the best places to escape the stressful life of İstanbul. The greenest of the Princes' Islands, this island's history dates back as far as the history of İstanbul. Therefore, there are many places to visit. In that case, arriving early in the morning is a great choice.

We recommend renting a bike and starting your tour of the entire island. Heybeliada is notable for its famous sanatorium, Byzantine-era monastery and museums.

Aya Yorgi Cliff Monastery

Although the exact date of this monastery's construction is unknown, it is believed to have been built towards the end of the 16th century. This monastery, comprising three distinct structures, sits on the edge of a cliff. This pink-colored historical structure offers captivating scenery due to its location. If you're looking to explore Heybeliada, the Aya Yorgi Cliff Monastery should be at the top of your list!

Bet Yaakov Synagogue

In the 1940s, Jewish families spent their summers on Heybeliada. As their numbers increased, the need for a place of worship arose on the island and in 1953, the Neve Shalom Foundation commissioned the construction of a synagogue. Due to the low winter population, the synagogue is only open on weekends and religious holidays. This period is extended during the summer months.

Heybeliada Naval High School

As you approach the island by ferry, Heybeliada Naval High School greets you in all its glory. This structure is almost 250 years old! Education at this high school ended in 2016. Although it is no longer in active use, Heybeliada Naval High School continues to welcome visitors to the island in all its glory.

House of İsmet İnönü

When İsmet İnönü fell ill in 1924, he was advised to rest. Heybeliada was chosen as the most suitable place for this. After the İnönü family purchased the house, its furnishings were gifted by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. İnönü's house is now on display as a museum. Preserved and exhibited by the İsmet İnönü Foundation, the house welcomes visitors as it was used during İsmet İnönü's time, complete with items that are gifted by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Visiting this museum offers a touching and nostalgic experience.

Ayios Nikolaos Church

It's unclear when or who built this church. The column on the outside of the church suggests it might have been built by the Byzantines in the 14th century. Built in honor of St. Nicholas, believed to protect sailors, this church has a shape resembling a closed cross.

Hüseyin Rahmi Gürpınar Museum

Hüseyin Rahmi Gürpınar, one of the most important figures in Turkish literature, spent 32 years of his life in this house. Except for the bookcase, everything in the museum belongs to Gürpınar and these items shed light on a significant part of his life. It's worth noting that every work in the bookcase is original!

Kangelaris Family Mausoleum (Ornate Tomb)

Kangelaris Family Mausoleum is a 19th-century mausoleum commissioned by Spyridon Kanglaris, who served as the British Consul in Gemlik. The consul lost his wife at a young age in Heybeliada. He commissioned this tomb in 1868 and arranged for her to be buried there. The octagonal structure features open arches on the walls. The consul also had an inscription inscribed at the entrance to express his love for his wife. He was buried next to her upon his death.

Heybeliada Sanatorium

This sanatorium was established in 1924 by order of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk to treat diseases such as tuberculosis, which required long-term treatment. Prominent figures such as Rıfat Ilgaz and İsmet İnönü received treatment there for a time. It was also used as a research hospital. However, it is no longer operational. Only in 2013 was a section of the building restored and opened for use for the film "Kelebeğin Rüyası" (The Butterfly's Dream). This historic building is also among the must-see destinations.

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• 6 Must-Do Activities on the Princes' Islands

• Weekend Activities That You Can Enjoy With Your Family