Istanbul Honeymoon Itinerary

  1. Day 1: The Blue Mosque
    15 minutes (1.2 miles) from Istanbul Airport

    The Blue Mosque or Sultan Ahmed Mosque is one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks located in Sultanahmet Square. It opens at 9 AM, and couples can participate in prayers or take a guided tour of the mosque while admiring its vibrant blue tiles and elegant design.

  2. Day 1: Eminonu Pier & Bosphorus Sunset Cruise
    35 minutes (3.2 miles) from The Blue Mosque

    Eminonu Pier is a bustling ferry station where you can grab a bite to eat at the waterfront food bazaar. At sunset, hop on a romantic Bosphorus Cruise and witness Istanbul from a different perspective with stunning views of the city's skylines and world-renowned landmarks.

  3. Day 2: Hagia Sophia Museum
    15 minutes (1.4 miles) from Eminonu Pier

    Hagia Sophia Museum is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an architectural masterpiece. Built-in AD 537, the museum offers a journey through Istanbul's rich history, culture, and religion. However, check and make sure it is open on the day as it may have strict opening and closing times due to its popularity.

  4. Day 2: Grand Bazaar
    20 minutes (1.3 miles) from Hagia Sophia Museum

    The Grand Bazaar is one of the world's largest indoor markets and features a vast array of jewelry, leather goods, spices, textiles, and more. It opens between 9 - 10 AM, and tourists can enjoy some bargaining and shopping while sipping on authentic Turkish tea.

  5. Day 3: Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride
    90 minutes (574 miles) from Grand Bazaar (by flight)

    Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride offers a breathtaking bird's eye view of the magical fairy chimneys and ancient formations of Cappadocia with your beloved. The ride is most advisable at sunrise, and you will fly with dozens of colorful balloons. The cost may vary between £100 - £200 per person.

  6. Day 3: Turkish Bath
    10 minutes (1.0 miles) from Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride

    End your honeymoon in Istanbul with a pampering Turkish Bath experience. The best option is to head to the popular Cemberlitas Hamami, which offers a traditional Ottoman bathhouse ambiance. You can relax and rejuvenate in the marble steam rooms, hot pools, and enjoy an invigorating massage or scrub.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • The Blue Mosque (1 hour, free)
  • Bosphorus Sunset Cruise (2 hours, £60)
  • Hagia Sophia Museum (2 hours, £15)
  • Grand Bazaar (2 hours, shopping budget varies)
  • Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride (1 hour, £100-£200 per person)
  • Turkish Bath (2 hours, £40 per person)
  • Total Estimated Costs: £215-£375

Useful Tips

If you have extra time in Istanbul, visit Topkapi Palace to learn about the life of Ottoman emperors, take a stroll around the picturesque Galata Bridge and Tower or visit the Chora Museum for its Byzantine mosaics and frescoes. However, if you have less time, you can skip Turkish bath or Grand Bazaar. Ensure you check the working hours of the places before you plan the schedule to avoid visiting the closed places.

0