Originally inhabited by monks and exiled aristocrats, and later by wealthy merchants and writers, the Princes’ Islands are a popular escape for locals and tourists who want to take a break from the hectic pace of the city. There are nine islands: four have daily ferry service to Istanbul, while the others are mostly uninhabited. Private cars aren’t allowed on the islands, a welcome change from Istanbul’s traffic jams; people get around by foot, bike, or faytons (horse-drawn carriages). Don’t expect the Princes’ Islands to be a Caribbean getaway, though—the (paid) beaches are often ugly, with limited sand and sea, and you can hardly move for chaise lounges. However, the rhythms of life are slower, and the fresh air offers a pleasant change from the city. With fish restaurants, monasteries, forests, picnic areas, and hills overlooking the sea, the islands are certainly worth the daytrip. Avoid spending the night, though, since a room in the summer can cost the equivalent of a whole week of lodgings in Istanbul.