Index:
An introduction: Notes on Kınalıada
An introduction: Notes on Kınalıada
As the most diminutive island in the archipelago, Kınalıada has a surface area of 1.3 square kilometers. Its name, in Turkish, refers to henna – the land has a reddish appearance attributed variously to copper deposits or to vegetation. A few more notes about the Island before exploring things to to in Kınalıada:
- Kınalıada has three hills with beautiful views: Çınar Hill, Teşrifiye Hill, and Manastır Hill.
- The Island has few trees, rocky soil and is rich in various minerals. In fact, the walls of Byzantine-era İstanbul were erected with stones from Kınalıada. The Island’s stones were also used in the construction of Tophane Dock and Haydarpaşa Port, during the 19th century.
- Electricity and water systems are relatively new on Kınalıada, with an electricity infrastructure installed in 1946. Until 1981, the Island’s water supply was transported from İstanbul via tankers.
- Kınalıada’s population is small but diverse. Around two thousand people live on the Island throughout the year. In summer, the population expands to around 20,000 people.
- There are a few boutique hotels and some tiny but clean hostels on Kınalıada.
- Since Kınalıada is the island closest to İstanbul, it is the ideal quick getaway for an easy and quiet vacation.
Kınalıada travel guide
Surp Krikor Lusavoric Armenian Church
The Armenian Church of Surp Krikor Lusarovic is dedicated to Saint Gregory the Illuminator. Established in 1857 on Narçiçeği Street, it is the first and only Armenian Gregorian church in the Adalar district. There are wonderful examples of Armenian stone carving on the inner walls of the church. Adjacent to the church is the summer residence of the Patriarchate. The building was donated by the Gülbenkyan Foundation. The Karagözyan Orphanage currently serves as a rest home.
Hristos Monastery, Hristos Hill
Situated on Hristos Hill with views of a breathtaking landscape, Hristos Church was the final resting place of Emperor Leo V, killed in a battle at the Hagia Irene Church in 820. The Hristos Monastery was used as an orphanage during the early 20th century and became a military headquarters during the First World War. It hosted White Russians during the Russian Revolution of 1917.
With its wonderful views and lush greenery, the hill is a perfect setting for a picnic.
Sikaryan Twin Houses
The Sikaryan Houses, among Kınalıada’s most elegant structures, are two three-story wooden mansions. The spacious 11-room buildings were designed by architect Avedisyan Kalfa and belong to the Sikaryan Family, residents of the Island. The mansions on Fazıl Ahmet Aykaç Street are also worth a visit.
Kınalıada Mosque
In the 1950s, a mosque was planned for Kınalıada to accommodate the Island’s expanding Turkish Muslim population. Accordingly, it was decided to dismantle the Karaköy Mosque and move it to Kınalıada. However, the ship carrying the mosque overturned in the Bosphorus and the pieces of the mosque sank in the water. A few years later, the Kınalıada Mosque, built in 1964 with the support of the people of Kınalıada, was finally opened for worship. This mosque, with a triangular form ceiling and an independent minaret, is an unusual structure and one of the top places to visit in Kınalıada.
Dining in Kınalıada
There is no single answer to the question of what to eat in Kınalıada. Like the other İstanbul islands, Kınalıada has wonderful waterfront restaurants that serve seafood and Turkish mezes. too. If you arrive in the morning, you can enjoy the delicious breakfast offerings at Bahar Patisserie, which is also a good place for tea and dessert. We also recommend the fruity ice creams of Yeşil Roma Ice Cream Shop, opposite the ferry pier.
How to get to Kınalıada
Kınalıada is reached by Cityline ferries departing from the Bostancı, Eminönü, Kabataş and Kadıköy piers, as well as via Blue Marmara ferries and Turyol ferries. The Kınalıada ferry schedule may vary in the summer and winter seasons, so do confirm the schedule before you depart for the Island. The trip from Eminönü to Kınalıada takes 50 minutes; from Kabataş to Kınalıada is 40 minutes. On the Anatolian side, the Kadıköy ferry arrives in Kınalıada in about 30-40 minutes and the Bostancı ferry in about 30 minutes.
Kınalıada beaches
Ayazma Beach
Ayazma Bay, featuring a public beach as well as the private Kamo’s Beach Club, is generally calm and quiet. Beach parties are also occasionally held at Kamo’s.
Kumluk Beach
Despite its name, Kumluk (Sandy) Beach is a pebble beach. It is among the Kınalıada beaches frequently preferred by families with children.
Ülker Beach
There are free boat services from the center to Ülker Beach, which also has a restaurant.
Teos Beach Club
Teos Beach Club is preferred by families and couples. Teos Beach Club features a pier as well as a pebble beach. The Club’s restaurant has an extensive menu.
Kınalıada Pier Beach
Iskele Beach, located on the right and left of the Kınalıada Piere, is a free public beach.
