Heybeliada, IstanbulA neighborhood guide for the Smileys community

Forested & serene · Prince's Islands

Mid-range

The second-largest Princes' Island — forested hills, naval history, a magical seminary, and a gentler pace than Büyükada.

1 past event

About Heybeliada

Heybeliada is one of Istanbul's forested & serene neighborhoods, on the Prince's Islands, generally mid-range by local standards. It's close to Büyükada and Burgazada. Smileys members based in Heybeliada connect through neighborhood events, meetups, and each other — this page tracks who's around, what's on, and what's nearby.

Nearby: Büyükada, Burgazada · all neighborhoods

Heybeliada, IstanbulOpen in Maps →

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Local hosts

Kevyn Bekerson

1 event hosted in Heybeliada

Local Favorites

Smileys Curated

Coffee & Tea

İskele KafesiSmileys Pick

The café at the ferry landing with views of arriving boats and the harbour. The perfect start to an island day.

Heybeliada İskelesi, Adalar

Food

Merit Halki Palace RestoranıMust Visit

The restaurant of the historic Heybeliada Palace hotel, with a garden terrace and sea views. Good quality in a beautiful setting.

Refah Şehitleri Cad., Heybeliada

Ada Balık Restoranları

Simple fish restaurants near the harbour serving fresh catch. Quieter and less touristy than Büyükada equivalents.

Heybeliada Çarşısı, Adalar

Things to Do

Heybeliada Deniz Harp Okulu

The Turkish Naval Academy occupies a dramatic hilltop on the island. The exterior and surroundings are worth exploring.

Heybeliada, Adalar

Aya Triada Manastırı (Halki Seminary)Smileys Pick

A beautiful Greek Orthodox seminary on the island's highest hill — closed for decades but historically significant. The hilltop walk is stunning.

Heybeliada, Adalar

The walk up through pine forest takes about 40 minutes. Go in the morning for the best views and cool air.

Island Cycling

Rent a bicycle at the landing and explore the island's pine-forested roads. Smaller than Büyükada but more varied terrain.

Heybeliada İskelesi, Adalar

Local Tips

·Ferry from Kabataş or Bostancı — Heybeliada is the third stop after Kınalıada and Burgazada.
·Much quieter than Büyükada even on summer weekends. A more relaxed island experience.
·No cars allowed. Bicycles and electric shuttles only.
·The island's pine forest is genuinely beautiful. Bring good walking shoes.