Honeymoon Itinerary in Turkey - October 6-12, 2023
Friday, October 6: Istanbul
Start your honeymoon in Istanbul, the vibrant city where East meets West. In the morning, visit the iconic Blue Mosque and marvel at its stunning architecture. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic Sultanahmet district and explore the Grand Bazaar, a bustling marketplace offering a variety of goods. In the afternoon, take a romantic cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, enjoying panoramic views of the city. As the evening sets in, indulge in a delicious Turkish dinner at a rooftop restaurant with a view of the illuminated city.
Blue Mosque: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 1 hour
Grand Bazaar: No entrance fee, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Bosphorus Cruise: Estimated cost: $30 per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Rooftop Restaurant: Estimated cost: $50 per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Van Kahvalti Evi, a charming cafe known for its authentic Turkish breakfast spread. Indulge in a variety of cheeses, olives, fresh bread, pastries, and traditional Turkish tea. Average cost for a meal is about 25 TL (Turkish Lira) per person.
For lunch, try Ciya Sofrasi, a popular restaurant serving traditional Anatolian dishes. Enjoy flavorful mezes, kebabs, and Turkish desserts made with fresh ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about 60 TL per person.
For dinner, dine at Mikla, a rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline. This upscale establishment blends Turkish and Scandinavian cuisines, creating a unique dining experience. Enjoy innovative dishes paired with fine wines. Average cost for a meal is about 250 TL per person.
Saturday, October 7: Cappadocia
Take a morning flight to Cappadocia, known for its unique rock formations and hot air balloon rides. Start your day with a hot air balloon flight at sunrise, enjoying breathtaking views of the fairy chimneys. After landing, explore the underground cities and cave churches, discovering the rich history of the region. In the evening, savor a romantic dinner in a cave restaurant, immersing yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Cappadocia.
Hot Air Balloon Ride: Estimated cost: $250 per person, estimated time spent: 3 hours
Underground Cities: Estimated cost: $15 per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Cave Restaurant Dinner: Estimated cost: $60 per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
For a delectable breakfast in Cappadocia, head to Café Safak. This charming café offers a variety of Turkish and European breakfast options, including fresh pastries, cheese, olives, and traditional Turkish tea. The average cost for a meal here is about 30 TRY per person.
Treat yourself to a delicious lunch at Dibek Restaurant, located in the heart of Cappadocia. Known for its authentic Turkish cuisine, this restaurant serves mouthwatering dishes such as lamb kebabs, stuffed grape leaves, and baklava. The average cost for a meal here is about 60 TRY per person.
For a romantic dinner experience, make a reservation at Seten Anatolian Cuisine. Located in a restored cave, this restaurant offers a unique ambience and exquisite Anatolian dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The average cost for a meal here is about 120 TRY per person.
Sunday, October 8: Pamukkale
Travel to Pamukkale, a natural wonder with terraced white mineral-rich hot springs. In the morning, explore the mesmerizing travertine terraces and take a dip in the thermal waters. Visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and discover its well-preserved ruins. As the day ends, relax in a thermal spa or enjoy a sunset walk along the terraces.
Pamukkale Terraces: Entrance fee: $20 per person, estimated time spent: 3 hours
Hierapolis: Entrance fee: $15 per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Thermal Spa: Estimated cost: $50 per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Ayran Cafe: Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Ayran Cafe, located near Pamukkale. Indulge in traditional Turkish breakfast dishes, including freshly baked simit (Turkish bagel), a variety of cheeses, olives, and homemade jams. The average cost for a meal is about 30 TL per person.
Kale Restaurant: For a satisfying lunch, head to Kale Restaurant, known for its authentic Turkish cuisine. Enjoy delectable kebabs, fresh salads, and traditional mezes made with the finest local ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about 50 TL per person.
La Casa Pide: In the evening, treat yourself to a romantic dinner at La Casa Pide, a charming restaurant serving delicious Turkish and Italian fare. Indulge in mouthwatering pides (Turkish pizza) and homemade pasta dishes, accompanied by a selection of wines. The average cost for a meal is about 80 TL per person.
Monday, October 9: Ephesus
Head to Ephesus, an ancient Greek city, and one of the best-preserved Roman archaeological sites in the world. In the morning, explore the magnificent ruins, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a sacred pilgrimage site. In the afternoon, taste local wines at a vineyard in Sirince village, known for its charming atmosphere. Enjoy a romantic dinner in the picturesque town of Selcuk, near Ephesus.
Ephesus Ruins: Entrance fee: $20 per person, estimated time spent: 4 hours
House of the Virgin Mary: Entrance fee: $10 per person, estimated time spent: 1 hour
Sirince Vineyard: Estimated cost: $30 per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Romantic Dinner in Selcuk: Estimated cost: $70 per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Start your day at Öz Urfa Kahvaltı Salonu, a cozy restaurant offering a traditional Turkish breakfast with a variety of local cheeses, olives, pastries, and fresh juices. The average cost for a meal is about 30 TL per person.
Lunch: For a delicious lunch, head to Ejder Restaurant, located near Ephesus. Indulge in their mouthwatering kebabs and grilled meats, accompanied by homemade bread and fresh salads. The average cost for a meal is about 70 TL per person.
Dinner: Experience a romantic dinner at Seven Hills Restaurant, overlooking the ancient ruins of Ephesus. Enjoy a gourmet menu featuring Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine, complemented by fine wines. The average cost for a meal is about 150 TL per person.
Tuesday, October 10: Bodrum
Travel to Bodrum, a coastal paradise known for its sparkling blue waters and vibrant nightlife. Start your day with a visit to the ancient Bodrum Castle, housing the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Relax on the beautiful beaches of Bodrum Peninsula in the afternoon, enjoying the sun and crystal-clear sea. As the evening approaches, explore the charming streets of Bodrum Town and indulge in a seafood dinner at a waterfront restaurant.
Bodrum Castle: Entrance fee: $10 per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Bodrum Peninsula Beaches: Free access, estimated time spent: 4 hours
Exploring Bodrum Town: No entrance fee, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Seafood Dinner: Estimated cost: $80 per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Wednesday, October 11: Antalya
Fly to Antalya, a stunning coastal city known for its picturesque beaches and ancient ruins. Spend the morning exploring the well-preserved ancient city of Perge, with its impressive Roman ruins. In the afternoon, relax on the famous Konyaalti Beach, enjoying the turquoise waters and breathtaking views. As the day ends, wander through the charming old town of Antalya, known as Kaleici, and enjoy a traditional Turkish bath experience.
Perge Ruins: Entrance fee: $15 per person, estimated time spent: 3 hours
Konyaalti Beach: Free access, estimated time spent: 4 hours
Exploring Kaleici: No entrance fee, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Turkish Bath Experience: Estimated cost: $50 per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Kaleiçi Şişçi Mıstık. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of traditional Turkish breakfast options, including fresh bread, cheeses, olives, and eggs. The average cost for a meal is about 25 Turkish Liras per person.
For lunch, head to Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant in Antalya. This elegant restaurant serves a range of Mediterranean and Turkish dishes, prepared with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about 80 Turkish Liras per person.
End your day with a romantic dinner at 7 Mehmet Restaurant. Located in the heart of Kaleici, this charming restaurant offers a beautiful outdoor setting and a diverse menu of Ottoman and Mediterranean cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about 120 Turkish Liras per person.
Thursday, October 12: Istanbul
Return to Istanbul to conclude your honeymoon. In the morning, visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace, former residence of the Ottoman sultans. Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Beyoglu, known for its trendy shops and cafes, in the afternoon. As you bid farewell to Turkey, savor a traditional Turkish dinner with live music, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the country.
Topkapi Palace: Entrance fee: $20 per person, estimated time spent: 3 hours
Exploring Beyoglu: No entrance fee, estimated time spent: 3 hours
Traditional Turkish Dinner: Estimated cost: $60 per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Istanbul is The House Cafe, known for its stylish atmosphere and delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 50 to 80 Turkish Lira per person.
For lunch, you can head to Karakoy Lokantasi, a charming restaurant offering traditional Turkish cuisine with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about 80 to 120 Turkish Lira per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, consider dining at Mikla, a rooftop restaurant serving contemporary Turkish dishes with stunning panoramic views of the city. Average cost for a meal is about 150 to 250 Turkish Lira per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For those seeking off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the ancient city of Aphrodisias, renowned for its well-preserved marble ruins and stunning stadium. Another hidden gem is the town of Kas, a charming seaside destination known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant underwater world, perfect for snorkeling and diving. Locals also love the charming village of Assos, with its picturesque harbor, ancient ruins, and tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect romantic getaway.
For more information on hotel and flight prices, check KAYAK.