3-Day Honeymoon Itinerary in Istanbul

  1. Day 1: Sultanahmet Square
    Located in the old city, 35 minutes (15km) from Istanbul Ataturk Airport

    Begin your honeymoon by visiting the heart of Istanbul's old town, the Sultanahmet Square. Start your tour with the iconic Blue Mosque - a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Spend some peaceful moments in the Hagia Sophia Museum, a cathedral-turned-museum with a rich history. Later, stroll over to the awe-inspiring Topkapi Palace Museum, where you can discover the luxurious lifestyles of the Ottoman royals and wander around the scenic palace gardens.

  2. Day 2: Bosphorus Strait
    40 minutes (18km) from Sultanahmet Square

    On the second day of your trip, head towards the mesmerizing Bosphorus Strait. Go on a scenic boat tour and get ready to amaze your eyes with the stunning views of the Istanbul skyline and historic landmarks such as the Maiden's Tower and the Dolmabahce Palace. After the cruise, grab a bite at one of the picturesque waterfront restaurants. End your day among the locals by taking a walk around the quaint Ortakoy Square filled with cafes, shops and street performers.

  3. Day 3: Grand Bazaar
    25 minutes (7km) from Bosphorus Strait

    Make your final day in Istanbul a memorable shopping experience at the bustling Grand Bazaar - one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets. Here, you can find a wide range of traditional souvenirs, textiles, jewelry, spices and more. After the shopping spree, take a break at one of the vibrant tea houses in the market and enjoy some Turkish tea and delights. In the afternoon, visit the Chora Church Museum depicting biblical stories through amazing wall frescoes and mosaics. End your day with a romantic horse carriage ride around the ruins of the ancient Valens Aqueduct.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Blue Mosque (1 hour, free)
  • Hagia Sophia Museum (2 hours, 100 TL)
  • Topkapi Palace Museum (2-3 hours, 150 TL)
  • Bosphorus Strait Boat Tour (2 hours, 60 TL)
  • Ortakoy Square (1-2 hours, free)
  • Grand Bazaar (2-3 hours, free)
  • Chora Church Museum (1 hour, 45 TL)
  • Valens Aqueduct Horse Carriage Ride (30 minutes, 100 TL)

  • Total Estimated Costs: 455 TL (~ $60 USD)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the elegant Prince Islands for a scenic bike ride and nature walks. You can also experience the famous Turkish bath, Hamam, at Cagaloglu Hamami. For less time, choose either Day 1 or Day 2 and explore the hidden corners of Istanbul at a slower pace.

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