Welcome to Istanbul, the perfect destination for your romantic honeymoon. On your first day, settle into your hotel and take a leisurely walk along the beautiful streets of Sultanahmet. Marvel at the magnificent Hagia Sophia and the stunning Blue Mosque. In the afternoon, visit the Topkapi Palace and explore its opulent rooms. As the evening sets in, take a romantic sunset cruise along the Bosphorus, enjoying the breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Bosphorus Sunset Cruise: Cost estimate - ₺150 ($18) per person, Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Çiya Sofrası where you can enjoy traditional Turkish dishes such as menemen and gözleme. The average cost for a meal here is about 30 Turkish Lira per person.
For lunch, treat yourselves to a tasty meze platter at Asitane Restaurant. This restaurant specializes in Ottoman cuisine and offers a variety of flavorful dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 60 Turkish Lira per person.
For a romantic dinner, dine at the famous Mikla Restaurant located on the rooftop of the Marmara Pera Hotel. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline while savoring delicious Turkish and Scandinavian fusion cuisine. The average cost for a meal here is about 250 Turkish Lira per person.
Monday, November 20: Historic Istanbul
Explore the rich history of Istanbul today. Start your morning with a visit to the grand Basilica Cistern, an underground marvel. Then, head to the Grand Bazaar for a unique shopping experience. In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Süleymaniye Mosque and enjoy the panoramic views from its courtyard. For a romantic evening, have dinner at a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city.
Grand Bazaar: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Süleymaniye Mosque: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Rooftop Dinner: Cost estimate - ₺300-500 ($36-60) per couple, Time spent: 2 hours
Tuesday, November 21: Bosphorus Exploration
Embark on a Bosphorus cruise today to explore the beauty of Istanbul from the water. Start your morning with a visit to the Dolmabahçe Palace, a stunning example of Ottoman architecture. Then, board a boat and cruise along the Bosphorus, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Rumeli Fortress and the Maiden's Tower. In the afternoon, visit the vibrant neighborhood of Ortaköy and enjoy a romantic stroll along the waterfront.
Bosphorus Cruise: Cost estimate - ₺25 ($3) per person, Time spent: 2 hours
Ortaköy: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Wednesday, November 22: Princes' Islands
Escape the city and take a day trip to the Princes' Islands. Start your morning by taking a ferry to Büyükada, the largest of the islands. Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through the charming streets and soak in the tranquility of the island. In the afternoon, relax on one of the picturesque beaches and savor a delicious seafood lunch. End your day with a romantic walk along the waterfront.
Ferry to Büyükada: Cost estimate - ₺10 ($1.20) per person, Time spent: 1 hour
Beach Relaxation: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Thursday, November 23: Istanbul's Modern Side
Discover the modern side of Istanbul today. Start your morning with a visit to the Istanbul Modern Art Museum, showcasing contemporary Turkish art. Then, head to the trendy neighborhood of Beyoğlu and explore the vibrant Istiklal Avenue, known for its shops and cafes. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city. As the evening approaches, enjoy a romantic dinner at a stylish restaurant in Karaköy.
Istanbul Modern Art Museum: Cost estimate - Entrance fee: ₺40 ($5), Time spent: 2 hours
Istiklal Avenue: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Dinner in Karaköy: Cost estimate - ₺200-300 ($24-36) per couple, Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, try Cafe Privato located in Beyoğlu. This cozy cafe offers a delicious selection of pastries and traditional Turkish breakfast dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 25 TL per person.
For lunch, head to Meşhur Filibe Köftecisi in Karaköy. This popular restaurant is known for its mouthwatering köfte (meatballs) made with a secret recipe. The average cost for a meal is about 30 TL per person.
For dinner, indulge in an exquisite dining experience at Mikla Restaurant in Beyoğlu. With stunning views of the city and a menu featuring innovative Turkish cuisine, this restaurant is perfect for a romantic evening. The average cost for a meal is about 150 TL per person.
Friday, November 24: Asian Istanbul
Cross over to the Asian side of Istanbul today for a unique cultural experience. Start your morning with a visit to the impressive Beylerbeyi Palace, a former residence of Ottoman sultans. Then, explore the lively Kadıköy neighborhood and browse through its bustling markets and eclectic shops. In the afternoon, stroll along the picturesque Moda coastline and enjoy breathtaking views of the city. For a romantic evening, have dinner at a local seafood restaurant.
Kadıköy: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Moda Coastline: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Seafood Dinner: Cost estimate - ₺250-400 ($30-48) per couple, Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Privato, known for its cozy atmosphere and wide selection of freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Ciya Sofrasi, a popular restaurant serving traditional Turkish cuisine. Enjoy their famous kebabs and mezes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For dinner, indulge in a romantic seafood feast at Sunset Grill & Bar. Located on a rooftop terrace, it offers stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait. Average cost for a meal is about $50 per person.
Saturday, November 25: Farewell to Istanbul
On your last day in Istanbul, take some time to relax and reflect on your amazing honeymoon trip. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe and then explore any remaining neighborhoods or attractions on your bucket list. In the afternoon, indulge in a traditional Turkish hammam experience for the ultimate relaxation. End your honeymoon with a romantic dinner overlooking the city's skyline and toast to unforgettable memories.
Exploring Neighborhoods: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Turkish Hammam: Cost estimate - ₺200-300 ($24-36) per person, Time spent: 2 hours
Romantic Dinner: Cost estimate - ₺300-500 ($36-60) per couple, Time spent: 2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For an off the beaten path experience, venture to the charming neighborhood of Balat. This colorful area is known for its historic houses, vibrant street art, and quaint cafes. Lose yourself in the narrow streets and soak in the local atmosphere. Another hidden gem is the Chora Church, famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics. Away from the crowds, you can admire the intricate artwork in a peaceful setting.
Locals also love visiting the Çiya Sofrası restaurant in Kadıköy, where you can taste a variety of traditional Turkish dishes made with fresh and seasonal ingredients. Don't miss trying the unique flavors of Anatolian cuisine.
These hidden gems and local favorites will add a special touch to your honeymoon, allowing you to discover Istanbul beyond the popular tourist attractions.
Click here to check hotel and flight prices for your honeymoon in Istanbul.
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Itinerary created by
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