Burgazada

Burgazada is the third largest of the Princes’ Islands of Istanbul. Nearly circular in shape and about two kilometers in diameter, it is defined by a single hill known as Bayrak Hill.

With its mild climate, scenic coastline, pine trees, and beautifully restored wooden mansions, Burgazada is one of Istanbul’s most cherished retreats. The island’s elegant seaside residences, particularly along Gezinti Street and in the charming Gönüllü and Mehtap neighborhoods facing Kaşık Island and Heybeliada, are well-known for their architectural grace and historic charm. Due to its exclusivity and high property values, Burgazada today serves as a refined summer destination favored by Istanbul’s affluent residents and prominent artists.

To the east of the ferry pier lies the island’s historic beach, which extends toward a small peninsula marked by a lighthouse. South of the beach is Mezarlık Point, beyond which the rugged southern cliffs of Bayrak Hill rise sharply from the shore, crowned by the Hristos Monastery. Continuing along the coast, visitors reach Kalpazankaya—one of the island’s most scenic picnic and walking spots—followed by Marta Bay to the south and the Aya Yorgi Monastery to the northwest.

The 17th-century Ottoman traveler Evliya Çelebi described Burgazada in his Seyahatname as “a small, square fortress built in the style of the Shaddadids upon steep seaside rocks; an island fertile and prosperous, with 300 gardened homes, wells of fresh water, vineyards without number, and a wealthy Greek population of skilled seafarers.”

Burgazada also played an important role in the development of modern medicine in Turkey—one of the country’s first sanatoriums was established here in 1928. The island’s first mosque was built much later, in 1953, to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Ottoman conquest of Istanbul.

Once renowned for its countryside excursions, Burgazada retains its peaceful charm despite the decline of such traditions. The island is perhaps best known today as the home of the celebrated Turkish writer Sait Faik Abasıyanık, whose life and stories immortalized the island’s people and spirit in Turkish literature.