Honeymoon Itinerary in Turkey - November 12-18, 2023
Sunday, November 12: Istanbul
Begin your romantic honeymoon in Istanbul, the vibrant capital of Turkey where East meets West. In the morning, visit the iconic Blue Mosque and marvel at its stunning architecture. Afterward, explore the bustling Grand Bazaar, a maze of shops offering unique souvenirs and local treasures. For the evening, take a leisurely cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, enjoying panoramic views of the city's skyline.
For breakfast, head to Van Kahvaltı Evi, a cozy eatery known for its traditional Turkish breakfast spread of delicious cheeses, olives, pastries, and more. Average cost for a meal is about 40 Turkish Lira per person.
For lunch, try Karaköy Gümrük Han, a trendy restaurant located in a historic building in the Karaköy district. Enjoy their flavorful Mediterranean dishes like grilled fish with fresh salads. Average cost for a meal is about 80 Turkish Lira per person.
For dinner, indulge in the culinary delights of Mikla Restaurant, located on the rooftop of the Marmara Pera Hotel. This fine dining establishment offers a fusion of Turkish and Scandinavian cuisines, with breathtaking views of the city. Average cost for a meal is about 250 Turkish Lira per person.
Monday, November 13: Cappadocia
Fly to Cappadocia, a fairytale-like region known for its unique rock formations and hot air balloon rides. Start your day with an early morning hot air balloon ride, watching the sunrise over the surreal landscapes. In the afternoon, explore the ancient cave dwellings of Goreme Open Air Museum. For a romantic evening, enjoy a candlelit dinner in a cave restaurant.
A cozy breakfast spot located in the heart of Cappadocia, offering a variety of traditional Turkish dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
A charming lunch spot with outdoor seating, serving fresh and flavorful Mediterranean cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
A romantic dinner restaurant tucked away in a cave, known for its intimate ambiance and exquisite Turkish specialties. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Tuesday, November 14: Pamukkale
Drive or take a domestic flight to Pamukkale, famous for its terraces of mineral-rich hot springs. Start your day by exploring the stunning white travertine terraces, where you can take a relaxing dip in the thermal pools. In the afternoon, visit the ancient city of Hierapolis and stroll through its well-preserved ruins. Wrap up the day by watching the sunset over the terraces.
For a delicious breakfast, head to Canak Kahvalti Evi, known for its traditional Turkish breakfast spread with various cheeses, olives, fresh bread, and eggs. The average cost for a meal is about 30 TL per person.
Enjoy a flavorful lunch at Denizli Mantı Evi, where you can savor authentic Turkish manti, a type of dumpling, served with yogurt and garlic butter. The average cost for a meal is about 35 TL per person.
Indulge in a romantic dinner at Yildirim Doneri, offering mouthwatering Turkish kebabs and grilled meats. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance and attentive service. The average cost for a meal is about 80 TL per person.
Wednesday, November 15: Ephesus
Travel to Ephesus, an ancient city filled with historical treasures. Begin your day by exploring the well-preserved ruins of Ephesus, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater. In the afternoon, visit the House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be the final resting place of the Virgin Mary. Enjoy a romantic evening stroll along the picturesque streets of Sirince village.
Ayasuluk Restaurant: Located near the entrance of Ephesus, Ayasuluk Restaurant offers a delightful breakfast with a wide variety of traditional Turkish dishes. Enjoy freshly baked bread, olives, cheeses, and a selection of jams. Average cost for breakfast is about 25 TL per person.
Artemis Restaurant: After exploring Ephesus, head to Artemis Restaurant for a delicious lunch. This charming restaurant serves authentic Turkish cuisine, including kebabs, mezze platters, and fresh seafood. Average cost for lunch is about 50 TL per person.
Sirince Meyhanesi: For a romantic dinner in Sirince village, visit Sirince Meyhanesi. This cozy restaurant offers a menu featuring local specialties such as roasted lamb, grilled vegetables, and homemade wine. Average cost for dinner is about 80 TL per person.
Thursday, November 16: Antalya
Fly to Antalya, a beautiful coastal city known for its stunning beaches and ancient ruins. Spend the morning relaxing on the famous Konyaalti Beach or Lara Beach. In the afternoon, explore the ancient city of Perge, where you can wander through its well-preserved Roman ruins. For a romantic evening, take a sunset yacht cruise along the Mediterranean coast.
For breakfast, head to Kaleiçi, the historic old town of Antalya, and visit Cafe Aylanto, known for their delicious breakfast options including omelettes, pastries, and fresh juices. The average cost for a meal is about 30-40 TL per person.
For lunch, try Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant, located in the heart of Antalya's marina. This restaurant offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes with a modern twist, and the average cost for a meal is about 80-100 TL per person.
For dinner, Zeytinalti is a romantic seafood restaurant with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. They serve a wide range of fresh seafood dishes, including grilled fish and shrimp. The average cost for a meal is about 120-150 TL per person.
Friday, November 17: Bodrum
Travel to Bodrum, a vibrant coastal town famous for its beaches, nightlife, and historical attractions. Start your day by visiting the ancient Bodrum Amphitheater, offering panoramic views of the city and the Aegean Sea. In the afternoon, explore the Bodrum Castle, which houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. For the evening, enjoy a romantic dinner overlooking the marina.
For breakfast, head to Olé Breakfast & Brunch, located near the marina. Indulge in their delicious offerings of fresh pastries, eggs, and Turkish tea. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about 40 TRY per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, visit Deniz Han Restaurant. Located in the city center, this restaurant offers a wide range of seafood dishes and Mediterranean cuisine. The average cost for a lunch meal is about 80 TRY per person.
For dinner, enjoy an unforgettable dining experience at Marina Yacht Club Restaurant. Situated by the waterfront, this restaurant offers a romantic atmosphere and a menu of delectable international and Turkish dishes. The average cost for a dinner meal is about 150 TRY per person.
Saturday, November 18: Istanbul
Return to Istanbul for your final day. Spend the morning exploring the magnificent Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman sultans. In the afternoon, take a relaxing Turkish bath at one of the city's traditional hammams. For your last evening, savor a romantic dinner on a rooftop restaurant, enjoying panoramic views of Istanbul.
For a delightful breakfast experience, head to Van Kahvaltı Evi, a popular spot known for its wide selection of traditional Turkish breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 40 TRY per person.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at Karaköy Lokantası, a trendy restaurant offering a modern twist on traditional Turkish cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 60 TRY per person.
For a romantic dinner overlooking the beautiful Istanbul skyline, make a reservation at Mikla, a rooftop restaurant serving innovative Turkish dishes with a Scandinavian touch. Average cost for a meal is about 300 TRY per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, consider visiting the charming town of Safranbolu, known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. Another hidden gem is Pergamon, an ancient city with impressive ruins and a hilltop Acropolis offering breathtaking views. Locals also love the picturesque town of Fethiye, where you can explore ancient Lycian rock tombs and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon.