Start your honeymoon with a visit to the historic Sultanahmet Square, which is surrounded by some of Istanbul's most stunning landmarks, including the Blue Mosque. The mosque is known for its exquisite tile work and six minarets that make it stand out. It is considered a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture.
Spend the day at the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the home of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. The palace features beautiful gardens, courtyards, and exquisite architecture. Afterward, head to the Hagia Sophia, where you can admire Byzantine-era mosaics and frescoes.
Take a stroll through the Istanbul Archaeology Museum, which boasts over a million objects from various periods of history. Then, get ready for some shopping at the world-famous Grand Bazaar, where you can find everything from carpets to jewelry and spices. Don't forget to haggle!
Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, which divides Europe and Asia. On this cruise, you will get a chance to see some of Istanbul's iconic landmarks, such as the Dolmabahce Palace and the Bosphorus Bridge. After the cruise, head to the Galata Tower, which offers breathtaking views of the city.
Escape the city and take a ferry to the Princess Islands, a chain of nine small islands in the Sea of Marmara. The islands are known for their stunning beaches, tranquil atmosphere, and horse-drawn carriages. Spend the day exploring, relaxing on the beach, and indulging in some delicious seafood.
Take a break from sightseeing and head to the Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir that once supplied water to Istanbul's palaces. Afterward, treat yourself to a traditional Turkish bath, where you can relax, rejuvenate, and indulge in a centuries-old Turkish tradition.
Get your dose of contemporary art and culture at the Istanbul Modern, Istanbul's first modern art museum. Afterward, head to the lively Taksim Square, where you can find an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and cafes. In the evening, enjoy the colorful lights and bustling atmosphere.
End your honeymoon on a romantic note by visiting Ortakoy, a charming neighborhood on the Bosphorus that is known for its picturesque setting and lively atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy some delicious Balik Ekmek (fish sandwiches), take a romantic stroll across the Bosphorus Bridge or simply relax on the waterfront and soak in the stunning views of the city.
Getting around Istanbul is easy thanks to the city's modern transportation system. The Istanbul Metro is the most convenient way to travel around town, and there are numerous bus and tram routes as well. Taxis are also plentiful but can be more expensive. Expect to spend around 50 TL per day on transportation.
If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to the stunning Pamukkale hot springs or the iconic Gallipoli battlefield. For a shorter trip, visit the charming Camlica Hill in the Asian side of Istanbul or the Eyup Sultan Mosque in the city's Balat district. If you have less time, consider skipping the Turkish bath or the Princess Islands.
Istanbul has two airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) on the Asian side. IST is the newer and larger airport, and it is located about 40 km from the city center. SAW is smaller and located about 45 km from the city center. Both airports have shuttle buses, taxis, and car rental services available.