Start your honeymoon in Istanbul, a vibrant city that seamlessly blends history and culture. In the morning, visit the iconic Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Then, indulge in a traditional Turkish lunch in the lively Sultanahmet area. Spend the afternoon exploring the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. As evening falls, enjoy a romantic dinner on a Bosphorus cruise, taking in the stunning views of the city.
Hagia Sophia: Estimated cost €15, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Grand Bazaar: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Bosphorus Cruise: Estimated cost €50, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Start your day with a delicious Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvalti Evi, known for its fresh ingredients and extensive menu. Average cost for a meal is about 40 TL per person.
Lunch: For a taste of authentic Ottoman cuisine, dine at Pandeli, a historic restaurant in the heart of the Grand Bazaar. Average cost for a meal is about 80 TL per person.
Dinner: Indulge in an elegant dining experience at Sunset Grill & Bar, offering panoramic views of Istanbul and a diverse menu of international and Turkish dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 TL per person.
Saturday, December 2: Discover Istanbul's Historical Gems
Explore the historical landmarks of Istanbul on day two. Begin your morning with a visit to the Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman sultans. In the afternoon, make your way to the beautiful Blue Mosque, famous for its stunning blue tiles. Take a leisurely stroll in the nearby Sultanahmet Square, admiring the Obelisk of Theodosius. As the evening sets in, enjoy a romantic sunset walk along the historic city walls.
Topkapi Palace: Estimated cost €15, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Blue Mosque: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Sultanahmet Square: Free entry, Time spent: 1 hour
City Walls: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Privato, a cozy cafe near Sultanahmet Square. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast with a variety of cheeses, olives, pastries, and freshly brewed Turkish tea. The average cost for a meal is about 25 TL per person.
For lunch, visit Hamdi Restaurant, located near the Spice Bazaar. Indulge in delicious Turkish kebabs and mezes while enjoying panoramic views of the Golden Horn. The average cost for a meal is about 50 TL per person.
For dinner, dine at Mikla, a rooftop restaurant offering breathtaking views of Istanbul's skyline. Experience modern Turkish cuisine with a creative twist, featuring dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about 150 TL per person.
Sunday, December 3: Journey to Trabzon
Leave Istanbul and fly to Trabzon, a picturesque city on the Black Sea coast. Begin your morning by visiting the Sumela Monastery, a hidden gem nestled in the Pontic Mountains. In the afternoon, explore Trabzon's vibrant Ataturk Square and indulge in local cuisine at one of the traditional restaurants. End the day by taking a romantic walk along the coast, enjoying the fresh sea air.
Sumela Monastery: Estimated cost €5, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Ataturk Square: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Coastal Walk: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Ayvazoglu Restaurant is a cozy breakfast spot known for its delicious Turkish pastries and freshly brewed tea. Average cost for a meal is about 20 TRY per person.
Karadeniz Balik Evi is a seafood restaurant located near the Trabzon Harbor. Enjoy a variety of fresh fish dishes while taking in the beautiful sea view. Average cost for a meal is about 50 TRY per person.
Hamsikoy Sutluce is a charming restaurant tucked away in the village of Hamsikoy, famous for its traditional Turkish cuisine. Try their mouthwatering lamb kebabs and homemade dairy products. Average cost for a meal is about 80 TRY per person.
Monday, December 4: Exploring Trabzon's Natural Beauty
Discover the natural beauty surrounding Trabzon on day four. Start your morning with a visit to Uzungol, a picturesque lake surrounded by green hills. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake and savor a delicious picnic lunch. In the afternoon, hike to the stunning Hidirnebi Plateau for panoramic views of the region. Spend the evening relaxing in a traditional Turkish hammam for a truly romantic experience.
Uzungol: Free entry, Time spent: 4-5 hours
Hidirnebi Plateau: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Turkish Hammam: Estimated cost €50, Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Akçaabat Köftecisi, a local favorite known for its delicious köfte (grilled meatballs) and traditional Turkish breakfast spread. Average cost for a meal is about 20 TL per person.
For lunch, try Limon Café & Restaurant, located near Uzungol. This charming restaurant offers a variety of dishes including seafood, Turkish cuisine, and vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about 40-50 TL per person.
For dinner, indulge in a romantic meal at Maromi Restaurant, situated in the heart of Trabzon. This upscale restaurant specializes in seafood and offers stunning views of the city. Average cost for a meal is about 80-100 TL per person.
Tuesday, December 5: Arrival in Antalya
Take a flight from Trabzon to Antalya, a beautiful coastal city known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. Spend the morning strolling along Konyaalti Beach, enjoying the sun and clear turquoise waters. In the afternoon, visit the ancient city of Termessos, hidden amidst the Taurus Mountains. Conclude the day by exploring the charming old town of Kaleici and indulging in a romantic dinner at a rooftop restaurant.
Konyaalti Beach: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Termessos: Estimated cost €10, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Kaleici: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Wednesday, December 6: Discovering Antalya's Cultural Heritage
Dive into Antalya's rich history and culture on the sixth day. Start with a visit to the Antalya Museum, housing a vast collection of archaeological artifacts. In the afternoon, explore the ancient ruins of Perge and Aspendos, marveling at the well-preserved Roman theater. End the day with a scenic sunset walk along the cliffs of Antalya, admiring the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Antalya Museum: Estimated cost €10, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Perge: Estimated cost €5, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Aspendos: Estimated cost €5, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Cliff Walk: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Thursday, December 7: Farewell to Antalya
On your last day, take a leisurely morning stroll along Lara Beach, known for its pristine sands and crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, visit the Antalya Aquarium, home to a variety of marine life. Before you depart, immerse yourselves in the local culture by sampling traditional Turkish tea and delighting in a Turkish dessert. Say goodbye to the beautiful coastal city of Antalya and cherish the memories of your romantic honeymoon.
Lara Beach: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Antalya Aquarium: Estimated cost €25, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Turkish Tea: Estimated cost €2, Time spent: 1 hour
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a romantic and off-the-beaten-path experience, take a day trip to the charming town of Beypazarı from Istanbul. Known for its Ottoman architecture and traditional handicrafts, this town offers a serene escape from the bustling city. Lose yourselves in the narrow streets lined with colorful houses, visit the local markets, and enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee in a traditional coffeehouse. Beypazarı is the perfect place to unwind and explore a lesser-known side of Turkey.