Romantic Turkey Honeymoon Itinerary: Cappadocia to Istanbul in 7 Days

Day 1: Explore Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on October 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring regional cheeses, olives, and fresh bread, setting a perfect start for your honeymoon day.

TRY 100, 1h

9:30am

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the historic former basilica and mosque showcasing Byzantine architecture. Open from 9:00am to 7:00pm, perfect to admire the mosaics and rich history.

TRY 150, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Taste authentic Turkish meatballs (köfte) in a family-run restaurant near major landmarks.

TRY 80, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Topkapi Palace

Roam through the luxurious residence of Ottoman sultans with stunning views of the Bosphorus. Open 9:00am to 6:00pm in October.

TRY 200, 2h

4:00pm

Stroll through the Grand Bazaar

Experience one of the largest covered markets in the world with colorful shops for souvenirs and local crafts. Closes at 7:00pm.

Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Dine atop a rooftop with panoramic views of Istanbul, enjoying gourmet Turkish fusion cuisine.

TRY 400, 2h

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Day 2: Cappadocia Adventure

Göreme, Cappadocia, Turkey on October 26, 2025

7:00am

Flight to Cappadocia

Take an early flight from Istanbul to Nevşehir or Kayseri airport, approximately 1.5 hours.

TRY 400, 1.5h

9:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Safak in Göreme

Enjoy fresh Turkish breakfast with local pastries and coffee in a cozy cafe.

TRY 60, 1h

10:30am

Explore Göreme Open Air Museum

Visit UNESCO site with ancient cave churches and frescoes that illustrate Byzantine art. Open 8:00am to 7:00pm in October.

TRY 150, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Seten Restaurant

Savor traditional Anatolian dishes and wines with views over Cappadocia's valleys.

TRY 120, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Pasabag (Monk’s Valley)

Discover unique fairy chimney rock formations and serene vineyards, ideal for romantic walks.

Free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Check-in and relax at a cave hotel

Experience intimate comfort in a beautiful cave hotel like Sultan Cave Suites.

TRY 900, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Dibek Traditional Cook

Enjoy home-style Cappadocian specialties in an authentic setting with a cozy atmosphere.

TRY 100, 1.5h

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Day 3: Cappadocia Balloon & Hike

Göreme, Cappadocia, Turkey on October 27, 2025

5:30am

Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience a breathtaking early morning flight over Cappadocia’s surreal landscape; prebooking required. Weather permitting.

TRY 2200, 3h

9:00am

Breakfast back at hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast featuring local ingredients after the balloon ride.

Included in stay, 1h

10:30am

Hike Red and Rose Valleys

Explore scenic trails filled with colorful rock formations, perfect for a romantic walk and photography.

Free, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Nazar Borek & Cafe

Taste fresh gözleme (Turkish flatbread) and other light Turkish dishes.

TRY 60, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Uchisar Castle

Climb the highest point in Cappadocia for stunning panoramic views of the region; open 8:00am to 7:00pm.

TRY 40, 1h

5:00pm

Relax at hotel

Unwind and enjoy hotel amenities or a traditional Turkish bath (hammam).

TRY 150 for hammam, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Lil’a Restaurant

Experience fine dining with local ingredients and creative Ottoman-inspired cuisine.

TRY 250, 2h

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Day 4: Pamukkale Serenity

Pamukkale, Turkey on October 28, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Pamukkale by morning flight and transfer

Fly from Cappadocia to Denizli airport, then transfer to Pamukkale, approximately 4-5 hours total travel time.

TRY 500, 5h

12:30pm

Lunch at White Dragon Restaurant

Relax with local and international cuisine near Pamukkale pools area.

TRY 80, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Pamukkale Thermal Pools & Hierapolis

Walk barefoot across the mineral-rich, white travertine terraces and visit the ancient Roman ruins of Hierapolis. Open 8:00am to 7:00pm in October.

TRY 150, 3h

6:00pm

Check-in and unwind at a spa hotel

Stay at a hotel with thermal pools to enjoy a romantic and relaxing evening.

TRY 600, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Kayas Restaurant

Enjoy fresh Mediterranean-inspired dishes close to your hotel with lovely ambiance.

TRY 100, 1.5h

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Day 5: Ephesus & Kusadasi

Kusadasi, Turkey on October 29, 2025

7:30am

Travel to Ephesus

Short drive from Pamukkale to Ephesus archaeological site, one of Turkey's most well-preserved ancient cities.

TRY 100 (transport), 2h

9:30am

Tour Ephesus Ancient City

Discover highlights like the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre. Open 8:00am to 7:00pm in October.

TRY 200, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Sirince Village

Visit quaint Sirince village and enjoy traditional Turkish dishes with local fruit wines.

TRY 120, 1.5h

3:00pm

Drive to Kusadasi and check-in

Relax at a seaside resort in Kusadasi, perfect for honeymoon leisure time.

TRY 700, 2h

6:00pm

Sunset walk along Kusadasi coast

Enjoy a romantic stroll along the Mediterranean coastline.

Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Kismet Restaurant

Dine on fresh seafood and Turkish specialties with beautiful sea views in Kusadasi.

TRY 200, 2h

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Day 6: Return to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on October 30, 2025

8:00am

Fly from Izmir (near Kusadasi) to Istanbul

Morning flight back to Istanbul, 1.5-hour duration, prepare for your final sightseeing days.

TRY 400, 1.5h

10:00am

Breakfast at Mangerie Bebek

Enjoy an elegant breakfast near the Bosphorus with a lovely waterfront atmosphere.

TRY 120, 1h

11:30am

Visit Dolmabahçe Palace

Explore the opulent palace overlooking the Bosphorus, an iconic Ottoman landmark. Open 9:00am to 4:00pm (closed Monday and Thursday).

TRY 250, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası

Taste diverse and authentic Anatolian dishes in the vibrant Kadıköy market area.

TRY 90, 1h

3:30pm

Walk along the Bosphorus at Ortaköy

Enjoy the lively atmosphere with cafes, street vendors and views of the iconic Bosphorus Bridge.

Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Banyan Restaurant

Savor a sophisticated fusion of Asian and Turkish cuisine in an elegant setting by the Bosphorus.

TRY 350, 2h

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Day 7: Cultural Finale

Istanbul, Turkey on October 31, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pierre Loti Café

Enjoy breathtaking views over the Golden Horn with traditional Turkish tea and pastries.

TRY 70, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Blue Mosque and Basilica Cistern

Explore the iconic Blue Mosque with its stunning tile work and the underground Basilica Cistern. Both open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.

Blue Mosque Free, Cistern TRY 100, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Hamdi Restaurant near Spice Bazaar

Delight in kebabs and rooftop views of the Golden Horn and city skyline.

TRY 120, 1h

1:30pm

Shop at Spice Bazaar and visit nearby Rustem Pasha Mosque

Explore the aromatic Spice Bazaar for souvenir shopping and visit the ornately tiled mosque nearby.

Free, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at hotel or Bosphorus cruise (optional)

Wind down your honeymoon with a scenic Bosphorus cruise to see Istanbul from a romantic water perspective.

TRY 150, 2h

7:00pm

Farewell dinner at Neolokal

Enjoy a contemporary take on Anatolian cuisine with stunning city views, perfect for a memorable last night.

TRY 400, 2h

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