A Romantic 5-Day Honeymoon Getaway in Istanbul

  • Day 1: Hagia Sophia Museum
    20 minutes (9 km) from Istanbul Airport

    Explore the masterpiece of Hagia Sophia Museum, the world-renowned relic of Byzantine architecture. This former church and mosque display stunning mosaics and exceptional architecture that will leave you awestruck.

  • Day 2: Bosphorus River Cruise
    25 minutes (6 km) from Hagia Sophia Museum

    Take a serene and romantic cruise down Bosphorus River while enjoying the magnificent views of Istanbul's shoreline. This is the perfect way to enjoy the sunset and appreciate the grandeur of the city.

  • Day 3: Topkapi Palace and Hurrem Sultan Hammam
    25 minutes (5.7 km) from Bosphorus River Cruise

    Indulge in the opulence and luxury of the Topkapi Palace where The Ottoman Sultans lived for centuries. Then, take a rejuvenating break at Hurrem Sultan Hammam to relax like a true royalty as you bask in an authentic Turkish bath.

  • Day 4: Grand Bazaar and Basilica Cistern
    20 minutes (4.6 km) from Topkapi Palace and Hurrem Sultan Hammam

    Embark on a journey through the vibrant and bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and most eclectic markets in the world. Then, experience the otherworldly allure of the ancient Basilica Cistern, an underground world that will take your breath away.

  • Day 5: Prince Islands
    50 minutes (25 km) from Grand Bazaar and Basilica Cistern

    Escape the city and enjoy a serene getaway on the idyllic Prince Islands. A cluster of four major islands with no cars allowed, it offers a peaceful atmosphere with horse carriages, natural beauty, and picturesque scenery that is perfect for your last day in Istanbul.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Hagia Sophia Museum (2 hours, ₺100)
  • Bosphorus River Cruise (3 hours, ₺120)
  • Topkapi Palace (2-3 hours, ₺150)
  • Hurrem Sultan Hammam (1-2 hours, ₺200)
  • Grand Bazaar (2-4 hours, ₺50-₺100)
  • Basilica Cistern (1 hour, ₺50)
  • Prince Islands (5-7 hours, ₺50-₺100)

  • Total Estimated Costs: ₺720-₺790

Transportation

Get an Istanbulkart for seamless transportation throughout the city. Uber and taxis are easy to find, though buses and trams offer more scenic views of the city. Daily transportation estimates are around ₺20-₺50.

Useful Tips

For extra fun, visit the rooftop of the Pera Palace Hotel and enjoy a drink at the legendary Agatha Christie Bar. If you have more days, add the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, Blue Mosque, or Istanbul Modern Art Museum to your itinerary. If you have less time, remove the Prince Islands or Grand Bazaar from your list.

Airports

Istanbul is served by two airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). Istanbul Airport is 35 km northwest of the city, and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport is 45 km southeast of the city.

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