Discover the hidden botanical treasures of Istanbul with our Gardens of Princes’ Islands tour — a captivating day trip that blends history, culture, and nature across the serene landscapes of Büyükada, Heybeliada, and Burgazada.

Once the summer retreat of Istanbul’s elite and a sanctuary for artists, writers, and exiles like Leon Trotsky, the Princes’ Islands are home to elegant 19th-century mansions and lush private gardens. These islands reflect a unique fusion of Ottoman heritage and Western garden design — featuring topiary art, decorative grottoes, faux bois railings, and ornate parterres.

As you explore tree-lined streets, historical estates, and peaceful green spaces, you’ll learn how the islands’ multicultural communities have shaped a rich garden culture still thriving today. This guided tour offers an in-depth look at the architectural and horticultural beauty of the islands, far from the busy city.

Ideal for garden lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience the natural side of Istanbul, this tour is a perfect escape into one of the city’s most charming destinations.

Book your Princes’ Islands garden tour today and uncover Istanbul’s most beautiful island landscapes.

Bosphorus waterfront with historic houses and Bosphorus Bridge in Istanbul, scenic coastal view with blue sea and city architecture

Colorful tulip garden in full bloom at Emirgan Park, Istanbul, spring landscape with vibrant flowers, trees, and walking paths

Historic mansion surrounded by lush gardens and palm trees in Istanbul, elegant Ottoman-era architecture with vibrant greenery and landscaped grounds

Travel group arriving at Büyükada in the Princes’ Islands, Istanbul, visitors posing near the ferry port on a sunny day by the sea

About the Leaders

Gursan Ergil

For more information

Gursan Ergil spent eight years living in the United States and studying landscape design, history, and preservation at Harvard University’s Arnold Arboretum, where he later lectured on Islamic Gardens for two years. After moving to the United Kingdom from the US, he continued his studies in Cambridge University’s advanced garden history program. We celebrate two decades of collaboration with Unison Travel & Events through an inspiring tour titled “Gardens of Humanity.” Today, based in Istanbul, Turkey, he splits his time between lecturing, leading tours and writing books on gardens. Ergil’s eco-friendly furniture and sustainable landscape designs are published in international media, and his mobile gardens series was exhibited at Marta Herford Museum in Germany. Ergil currently works as a landscape curator at Prince’s Island Museum in Istanbul, and he is the author of the book ‘Gardens of Princes Islands’.

Gallery

Historic Diyarbakır city walls overlooking the Hevsel Gardens, southeastern Türkiye landscape with ancient stone architecture and green valley views

Colorful tulip fields in full bloom at an Istanbul spring garden, vibrant floral landscape surrounded by tall trees and lush greenery during tulip season

Elegant pink historic house surrounded by blooming garden flowers and lush greenery in Istanbul, charming springtime architecture with landscaped grounds

Sunken mosque minaret rising from the water in Halfeti, southeastern Türkiye, historic village surrounded by rocky hills and calm river landscape

Traditional spice market in Gaziantep featuring colorful Turkish spices, herbs, and local ingredients displayed in large bowls at a vibrant bazaar

Travelers enjoying a Bosphorus boat tour in Istanbul with waterfront views, historic city walls, and scenic coastline on a sunny day

Ancient ruins and historic stone arch in Harran, southeastern Türkiye, archaeological landscape with desert scenery and dramatic blue sky

Traditional beehive houses in Harran, southeastern Türkiye, historic mudbrick architecture with ancient cultural artifacts and desert village atmosphere

Testimonials

Proud to receive great feedback from our customers!

A Good Experience ❤️
Huge gratitude to Unison Turkey! Traveling abroad can be intimidating, but finding a quality tour company makes all the difference.
Tony & Julie S.
The Perfect Trip to Embark On 💃
If you love dance, history, and colorful cultures, this trip is perfect for you. The hosts are knowledgeable and incredibly welcoming.
Bozenka A. - USA
Well Beyond the Call of Duty 🌍
Thank you, Gursan & Nazan, for going above and beyond. Your care and attention were truly appreciated.
Sara W. - Canada
A Perfect Holiday 🏖️
Thank you, Burcu! We had a fantastic holiday, and everything exceeded our expectations.
Natasja B. - Holland
☀️ Peace of Mind
We’ve worked with Unison Turkey for 8 years. Every detail is handled with care, and they are always available when needed.
Paula A. - Portugal
🍽️ A Fabulous Cuisine and Cultural Tour
I was lucky to join this incredible food and culture tour by Unison Turkey and Nathan Fong. Every detail was perfectly planned!
Larae C. - Canada
🌟 Amazing Vacation
Everything was magnificent! Thanks to the Unison Turkey team, we had a truly amazing vacation.
Amy S. - USA
🌍 A Nice Turkey Experience
We recently visited Turkey and had an amazing time. Unison Turkey took care of all our needs, from transportation to booking tours. Zehra was incredibly helpful!
Hemita Sagar & Family - USA
🙌 Thank You SO MUCH for Everything!
Huge shout-out to Burcu and Yoko! The trip was wonderful from start to finish. If you’re in the dance community, just go!
Saroya A. - Panama
🇹🇷 Hosted Very Well in Stunning Parts of Turkey
I always have a great time with Unison Turkey, knowing my students will be well taken care of. One of the best experiences ever!
Ozgen O. - UK
✅ Recommend Them Without Hesitation!
Unison Turkey is a wonderful company—welcoming, knowledgeable, and accommodating. I would highly recommend them!
Artemis M. - USA