Start your honeymoon in Turkey by exploring the beautiful city of Istanbul. In the morning, visit the iconic Blue Mosque, also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, to admire its stunning architecture and intricate blue tiles. Afterward, head to the nearby Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to marvel at its grandeur and historical significance. Enjoy a romantic boat ride along the Bosphorus Strait in the afternoon, taking in the picturesque views of the city's skyline. In the evening, wander through the vibrant streets of the Grand Bazaar, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine.
Blue Mosque: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 1 hour
Hagia Sophia: Entrance fee - 100 TRY per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Bosphorus Boat Ride: Cost - 200 TRY per couple, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Grand Bazaar: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Van Kahvaltı Evi, a cozy cafe known for its traditional Turkish breakfast spread including fresh bread, olives, cheeses, and jams. Average cost for a meal is about 30-40 TL per person.
For a tasty lunch, try Cezayir Restaurant, a trendy spot offering a mix of Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine. Enjoy their flavorful mezes and grilled seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 60-80 TL per person.
For a romantic dinner, book a table at Mikla Restaurant, located on the rooftop of The Marmara Pera hotel. Indulge in modern Turkish cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of the city. Average cost for a meal is about 250-350 TL per person.
Monday, August 7: Cappadocia
On the second day of your honeymoon, fly from Istanbul to Cappadocia, a unique region known for its surreal landscapes and cave dwellings. Start your morning with a hot air balloon ride over the fairy chimneys and valleys of Cappadocia, offering breathtaking views and a memorable experience. Afterward, visit the UNESCO-listed Goreme Open-Air Museum to discover ancient cave churches and rock-cut monasteries. In the afternoon, explore the underground city of Derinkuyu, an impressive subterranean labyrinth that once served as a refuge for early Christians. End your day with a romantic dinner in one of the local cave restaurants, savoring traditional Turkish cuisine.
Hot Air Balloon Ride: Cost - 800 TRY per person, estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
Goreme Open-Air Museum: Entrance fee - 75 TRY per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Derinkuyu Underground City: Entrance fee - 50 TRY per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Romantic Cave Dinner: Cost varies, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Cappadocian Cuisine: Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at Cappadocian Cuisine, where you can savor a variety of local specialties such as menemen (scrambled eggs with veggies), börek (savory pastries), and gözleme (stuffed flatbread). The average cost for a meal is about 30 TL per person.
Pumpkin Restaurant: For a delicious lunch, head to Pumpkin Restaurant, located in the heart of Cappadocia. Indulge in their signature pumpkin kebab, a unique dish where tender meat is cooked with roasted pumpkin and aromatic spices. The average cost for a meal is about 60 TL per person.
Kocabag Winery: For a romantic dinner experience, Kocabag Winery is the perfect choice. Enjoy a candlelit dinner amidst the vineyards, accompanied by fine Turkish wines. They offer a variety of Mediterranean-inspired dishes and the average cost for a meal is about 120 TL per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a truly unique experience, consider visiting Pamukkale, a natural wonder famous for its terraces of mineral-rich thermal waters. The cascading white terraces create a surreal landscape that is perfect for a romantic day trip. Another hidden gem is the ancient city of Ephesus, where you can explore well-preserved ruins, including the iconic Library of Celsus and the Grand Theater. These off-the-beaten-path attractions offer a glimpse into Turkey's rich history and will make your honeymoon even more memorable.