A Romantic Turkish Adventure: 7-Day Honeymoon Itinerary
Friday, February 9: Arrival in Istanbul
Welcome to Istanbul, the vibrant city where East meets West. Start your honeymoon by exploring the historic Sultanahmet district. In the morning, visit the iconic Hagia Sophia and marvel at its intricate architecture. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the Blue Mosque and experience its peaceful ambiance. As the evening sets in, wander through the colorful Grand Bazaar, a paradise for shopping and treasure hunting.
Hagia Sophia: Estimated Cost: Free (with Istanbul Museum Pass), Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Blue Mosque: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 30 minutes - 1 hour
Grand Bazaar: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Van Kahvalti Evi, known for its traditional Turkish breakfast spread featuring an assortment of cheeses, olives, fresh bread, and homemade jams. Average cost for a meal is about 30 TL per person.
For a satisfying lunch, try Asitane Restaurant, located near the Chora Museum. Indulge in their unique Ottoman cuisine, with dishes like lamb stewed in apricot sauce and almond soup. Average cost for a meal is about 80 TL per person.
For a romantic dinner, book a table at Mikla, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of Istanbul's skyline. Enjoy their contemporary Turkish dishes with a modern twist, such as lamb loin with pistachio sauce. Average cost for a meal is about 250 TL per person.
Saturday, February 10: Cappadocia
Embark on a magical journey to Cappadocia, famous for its unique rock formations and fairy chimneys. In the morning, take a hot air balloon ride over the picturesque landscapes, witnessing the sunrise from above. Afterward, explore the ancient underground city of Kaymakli and marvel at its intricate tunnels and chambers. In the evening, enjoy a romantic dinner in a cave restaurant, savoring local delicacies.
Hot Air Balloon Ride: Estimated Cost: $150-250 per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Kaymakli Underground City: Estimated Cost: $10-15 per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Cave Restaurant Dinner: Estimated Cost: $50-100 per couple, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A cozy cafe called "Cappadocia Coffee" is a perfect spot for breakfast, serving a variety of Turkish pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to "Cave Garden Restaurant" which offers a delightful open-air dining experience with stunning views of the surrounding fairy chimneys. Enjoy traditional Turkish dishes like kebabs and mezes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Indulge in an unforgettable dinner at "Sultan Cave Restaurant" located in a historic cave with a romantic ambiance. Delight in a range of mouthwatering Turkish specialties like lamb skewers and baklava. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Sunday, February 11: Pamukkale
Indulge in the natural beauty of Pamukkale, known for its stunning terraces of mineral-rich thermal waters. In the morning, take a dip in the warm travertine pools and rejuvenate your senses. Afterward, visit the ancient city of Hierapolis and explore its fascinating ruins, including the well-preserved theater. As the sun sets, capture breathtaking views of Pamukkale from the nearby Hierapolis Necropolis.
Pamukkale Thermal Pools: Estimated Cost: $20-30 per person, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Hierapolis Ancient City: Estimated Cost: $10-15 per person, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Hierapolis Necropolis: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at Köşebaşı Restaurant, located near Pamukkale. Their extensive menu offers a variety of delicious breakfast items such as menemen (scrambled eggs with tomatoes and peppers) and simit (Turkish sesame bagel). The average cost for a meal is about 25 TL per person.
Lunch: For a delightful lunch experience, head to White House Restaurant. This charming restaurant offers a mouthwatering selection of Turkish cuisine, including kebabs, mezze platters, and fresh salads. Sit back and enjoy the beautiful view of the travertine terraces while indulging in their delectable dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 40 TL per person.
Dinner: Treat yourself to a romantic dinner at Sunset Restaurant, located on the rooftop terrace of a hotel overlooking Pamukkale. With its stunning panoramic views, this restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience. Indulge in a variety of dishes, including traditional Turkish specialties and international cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about 80 TL per person.
Monday, February 12: Bodrum
Head to the charming coastal town of Bodrum, perfect for relaxation and romantic beach walks. In the morning, unwind on the beautiful Bodrum Beach and soak up the sun. In the afternoon, visit the impressive Bodrum Castle and explore its fascinating Museum of Underwater Archaeology. As the evening sets in, take a stroll through the vibrant Bodrum Marina and enjoy a romantic dinner overlooking the sparkling Aegean Sea.
Bodrum Beach: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Bodrum Castle and Museum of Underwater Archaeology: Estimated Cost: $10-15 per person, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Bodrum Marina: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Central, known for their freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a breakfast is about 20 TL per person.
For lunch, indulge in traditional Turkish cuisine at Meze Restaurant, offering a wide variety of mouth-watering mezes and grilled kebabs. Average cost for a lunch is about 40 TL per person.
For a romantic dinner, dine at La Maison Restaurant, where you can savor exquisite Mediterranean dishes while enjoying stunning views of the Bodrum Castle. Average cost for a dinner is about 120 TL per person.
Tuesday, February 13: Antalya
Discover the beauty of Antalya, a coastal gem with stunning beaches and historical sites. In the morning, explore the ancient city of Perge and admire its well-preserved ruins, including the grand theater and city gate. In the afternoon, relax on the pristine Konyaalti Beach and take a refreshing swim in the Mediterranean Sea. As the evening approaches, wander through the charming streets of Kaleici, the old town, and enjoy a romantic dinner amidst its traditional Ottoman houses.
Perge Ancient City: Estimated Cost: $10-15 per person, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Konyaalti Beach: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Kaleici (Old Town): Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A delightful breakfast spot in Antalya is Cafe Neutral. Start your day with their delicious Turkish breakfast spread, which includes fresh bread, cheese, olives, honey, and tea. The average cost for a meal at Cafe Neutral is about 30 TL per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Seraser Fine Dining. This elegant restaurant offers a fusion of Turkish and international cuisine, with dishes like grilled lamb kebabs and Mediterranean seafood. The average cost for a meal at Seraser Fine Dining is about 80 TL per person.
For a romantic dinner experience, dine at Vanilla Restaurant located in Kaleici. Enjoy their extensive menu featuring traditional Turkish dishes with a modern twist, along with a wide selection of fine wines. The average cost for a meal at Vanilla Restaurant is about 120 TL per person.
Wednesday, February 14: Ephesus
Embark on a journey through time in Ephesus, an ancient city steeped in history. In the morning, explore the well-preserved ruins of Ephesus, including the impressive Library of Celsus and the grand Theater. In the afternoon, visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a sacred pilgrimage site. As the evening sets in, enjoy a romantic dinner in the charming town of Selcuk, immersing yourselves in the local culture.
Ephesus Ancient City: Estimated Cost: $10-15 per person, Time Spent: 3-4 hours
House of the Virgin Mary: Estimated Cost: $5-10 per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Dinner in Selcuk: Estimated Cost: $50-100 per couple, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Agora Cafe: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Agora Cafe, located in the heart of Selcuk. Indulge in a variety of freshly baked pastries and enjoy a cup of aromatic Turkish coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 15 TL per person.
Artemis Restaurant: For a delightful lunch experience, head to Artemis Restaurant. Situated near the ancient ruins of Ephesus, this restaurant offers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Feast on traditional Turkish dishes such as kebabs and mezze. Average cost for a meal is about 40 TL per person.
Ada Restoran: For a romantic dinner, Ada Restoran is the perfect choice. Located by the waterfront, this restaurant offers a serene atmosphere and exquisite Turkish cuisine. Try their seafood specialties, accompanied by a selection of local wines. Average cost for a meal is about 100 TL per person.
Thursday, February 15: Istanbul
Return to Istanbul for your final day of exploration. In the morning, take a relaxing Bosphorus cruise and admire the stunning views of the city's skyline. In the afternoon, visit the Topkapi Palace and delve into the opulent world of the Ottoman Empire. As the evening approaches, indulge in a traditional Turkish hammam experience, rejuvenating your bodies and souls.
Bosphorus Cruise: Estimated Cost: $20-30 per person, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Topkapi Palace: Estimated Cost: $10-15 per person, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Turkish Hammam Experience: Estimated Cost: $50-100 per person, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi, a charming restaurant known for its delicious traditional Turkish breakfast spread. Sample a variety of cheeses, olives, breads, and jams. Average cost for a meal is about 30 TL per person.
Lunch: For a delicious lunch, head to Ciya Sofrasi, a popular restaurant offering a wide range of authentic Turkish dishes. Don't miss their mouthwatering kebabs and flavorful mezes. Average cost for a meal is about 50 TL per person.
Dinner: Indulge in a romantic waterfront dinner experience at Sunset Grill & Bar while enjoying breathtaking views of the Bosphorus. The restaurant offers an exquisite menu featuring Mediterranean and international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 200 TL per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
As you explore Turkey on your honeymoon, be sure to venture off the beaten path and discover some hidden gems. For a romantic escape, consider visiting the picturesque town of Alacati, known for its charming streets, boutique hotels, and windmills. Another local favorite is the town of Safranbolu, famous for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and cozy tea houses. These lesser-known destinations offer a peaceful and intimate atmosphere, perfect for honeymooners seeking tranquility.
For more information on hotels and flights, you can check out Kayak.