Arrive in Istanbul and check into your hotel. Start your honeymoon with a romantic dinner at one of Istanbul's waterfront restaurants, such as Sunset Grill & Bar, offering breathtaking views of the Bosphorus. Indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine and toast to the beginning of your unforgettable journey.
Sunset Grill & Bar: Approximate cost per person - $50-$100, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Van Kahvaltı Evi located in the Cihangir neighborhood, known for its authentic Turkish breakfast. Enjoy a variety of cheeses, jams, olives, and freshly baked bread. The average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For lunch, try Hamdi Restaurant, famous for its traditional Turkish kebabs and panoramic views of the Golden Horn. Indulge in flavorful grilled meats and mezes. The average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
For dinner, make a reservation at Mikla, a rooftop restaurant offering a fusion of Turkish and Scandinavian cuisines. Savor innovative dishes accompanied by stunning views of the city skyline. The average cost for a meal is about $80 per person.
Saturday, March 2: Exploring Sultanahmet
Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Hagia Sophia, a magnificent Byzantine cathedral turned mosque and now a museum. Experience the grandeur of the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) and admire its stunning architecture. In the afternoon, wander through the historic Topkapi Palace and immerse yourself in its rich Ottoman history. As evening falls, take a romantic stroll through the vibrant Grand Bazaar, where you can find unique souvenirs and Turkish delights.
Grand Bazaar: No entrance fee, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Sürmeli Restaurant located near Sultanahmet. Enjoy a delicious Turkish breakfast spread with options like cheese, olives, jams, and traditional pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 25-30 TL per person.
For lunch, try Balikçı Sabahattin, a seafood restaurant known for its fresh and flavorful dishes. Feast on grilled fish, calamari, and mezes while enjoying a cozy atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 50-60 TL per person.
For dinner, indulge in a romantic meal at Matbah Ottoman Palace Cuisine. This fine dining restaurant offers a unique culinary journey through Ottoman recipes with modern twists. Average cost for a meal is about 150-200 TL per person.
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Van Kahvalti Evi, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Turkish breakfast spread. Indulge in a variety of dishes like simit (sesame bread), menemen (Turkish-style scrambled eggs), and kaymak (clotted cream), all for an average cost of about 40 TL per person.
For lunch, visit Deraliye Ottoman Cuisine Restaurant for a taste of authentic Ottoman cuisine. Enjoy dishes like lamb kebabs, stuffed grape leaves, and baklava, all prepared with traditional recipes. The average cost for a meal here is about 100 TL per person.
In the evening, dine at Mikla Restaurant, located on the rooftop of The Marmara Pera hotel. This upscale restaurant offers stunning views of Istanbul's skyline while serving modern Turkish cuisine with a Nordic twist. Indulge in their tasting menu, which costs around 350 TL per person.
Sunday, March 3: Bosphorus Cruise and Hamam Experience
Embark on a scenic Bosphorus cruise to admire Istanbul's mesmerizing skyline, picturesque waterfront mansions, and charming fishing villages. Enjoy a delicious lunch on board while taking in the beauty of the strait. Afterward, treat yourselves to a traditional Turkish bath experience, or hamam, at Cagaloglu Hamami or Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamam. Relax and rejuvenate together as you indulge in this ancient wellness ritual.
Bosphorus Cruise: Approximate cost per person - $25, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Cagaloglu Hamami or Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamam: Approximate cost per person - $60-$150, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Monday, March 4: Day Trip to Princes' Islands
Escape the bustling city and take a ferry to the Princes' Islands. Explore Buyukada, the largest island, by horse-drawn carriage or rent bicycles to discover its serene beaches, charming streets, and historic landmarks. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a waterfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and local delicacies. Unwind on the island, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and creating unforgettable memories with your loved one.
Ferry to Princes' Islands: Approximate cost per person - $5, Time spent - Full day
Horse-drawn carriage or bicycle rental: Approximate cost - $10-$20, Time spent - Flexible
Tuesday, March 5: Istanbul Modern and Taksim Square
Visit the Istanbul Modern Museum, showcasing contemporary Turkish art, to immerse yourselves in the vibrant local art scene. Afterward, head to Taksim Square, the heart of modern Istanbul, and explore Istiklal Avenue. Wander along this bustling pedestrian street, lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. Indulge in Turkish street food, enjoy live music, or visit the nostalgic Pera Museum for a cultural experience.
Istanbul Modern Museum: Entrance fee - $5, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Taksim Square and Istiklal Avenue: No entrance fee, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Cross the Bosphorus to explore the Asian side of Istanbul. Start your day at Kadikoy, known for its vibrant street markets and charming cafes. Enjoy a delicious Turkish breakfast and stroll along the Kadikoy Pier, taking in the breathtaking views of Istanbul's European side. Visit the stunning Uskudar Mosque and explore the historic Maiden's Tower (Kiz Kulesi) for panoramic views of the city. In the evening, dine at Ciya Sofrasi, a renowned restaurant serving authentic Anatolian cuisine.
Kadikoy: No entrance fee, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Uskudar Mosque: No entrance fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Ciya Sofrasi: Approximate cost per person - $30-$50, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Thursday, March 7: Bazaar Shopping and Farewell Dinner
Spend your last day in Istanbul indulging in a shopping spree at the Spice Bazaar and the vibrant Egyptian Bazaar. Discover a variety of spices, teas, Turkish delights, and unique souvenirs. Enjoy a delicious farewell dinner at Mikla, a rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of the city and serving modern Turkish cuisine with a twist. Raise a toast to your amazing honeymoon and create lasting memories of your time in Istanbul.
Spice Bazaar: No entrance fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Egyptian Bazaar: No entrance fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Mikla: Approximate cost per person - $100-$150, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, explore the charming neighborhood of Balat, known for its colorful houses and trendy cafes. Visit the Chora Church (Kariye Museum) to admire its stunning Byzantine mosaics. Take a romantic sunset walk along the Galata Bridge, crossing over the Golden Horn, and enjoy the beautiful views of the city. Don't miss the opportunity to try a traditional Turkish tea or coffee at a local teahouse, immersing yourselves in the local culture.