Honeymoon Hotels Turkey
From the glittering Aegean Sea to the glitzy Turkish Riviera, an intimate cruise ride goes hand-in-hand with a stay at a honeymoon hotel in Turkey. Back on land, turquoise waters, stunning beaches punctuated by picturesque harbors, buzzing metropoles, quaint villages and ruins from ancient times await. From spas and thermal springs to cuisine fit for a sultan, Turkey has all your bases covered to make your stay at a honeymoon hotel one that you will never forget.
Honeymoon hotels: A couple’s guide to dreamy escapes in Turkey
Marmara: Opposites attract in the imperial city of Istanbul
The imperial city of Istanbul is an exciting mix of old-world charm and modern-day life. The city is also no slouch when it comes to dazzling sunsets that bathe the waters of the Bosphorus in shades of orange, red, and purple. Needless to say, a honeymoon in Turkey would be incomplete without enjoying an intimate sunset cruise. Sail the azure waters of the strait to see the whole city including the European and Asian shores, and enjoy a dinner date with your partner under the starlit sky. Alternatively, you can watch the sun go down on the Galata Bride against a backdrop of lively cafes, bars and restaurants. Likewise, touring the Blue Mosque, Süleymaniye Mosque and Hagia Sophia, and visiting a Turkish bath is obligatory while visiting Istanbul. Located just off the Asian coast of Istanbul in the Marmara Sea, the pedestrianized Princes’ Islands are a great way to enjoy a day trip away from the hustle and bustle of the city. In spring, you can take a walk along the streets and marvel at the yellow blossoms of the mimosa trees in full bloom before having a picnic in a scenic spot. Pinkipo ice cream in giant cones is a novelty on the largest island, Büyükada, and the perfect treat to share with your loved one. If getting out into nature makes your heart beat faster then Agva in the Sile district of Istanbul is the right place for you. Nestled snugly between two rivers, this green oasis will enchant you with its picturesque scenery. Let the worries of the city melt away as you enjoy paddle boats, ogle at sunsets over the lake, relax at the beach and take a boat trip with your perfect match.
Aegean Coast: Archeology meets romance in Bodrum
Dominated by high bluffs and mountains, the rugged Aegean Coast is one of the serenest honeymoon destinations in Turkey. Impressive archaeological heritage alongside astoundingly azure bays, the Bodrum Peninsula in particular paints an evocative picture of Turkey’s ancient past. Watched over by the 15th century seaside castle, Bodrum has a sophistication that sets it apart from other coastal towns. It is also home to one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, the Mausoleum of Mausolus. Furthermore, elegant Bodrum offers countless romantic things to do. Take a boat trip along the stunning peninsula, explore St Peter’s Castle (which also houses the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology) and charming villages to experience a local slice of Turkey, spend a sunny afternoon on the beach (Gumbet or Yalikavak), stroll down the marina to dance the night away or swim in the healing springs of Kara Ada. The Blue Lagoon at Oludeniz Beach, where the Mediterranean and Aegean Sea meet, provides incredible diving opportunities. It is the ultimate paradise for watersports enthusiasts looking for the perfect underwater adventure. Newlyweds will find plenty to love about the Aegean Coast while honeymooning in Turkey.
Turkish Riviera: Fall in love with the land of the golden sands
The gateway to the Turkish Riviera, Antalya is the largest city on Turkey’s western Mediterranean coastline offering the perfect blend of exquisite beaches, natural beauty and historical ruins. Its well-preserved old city district of Kaleiça, literally meaning ‘within the castle,’ lends itself perfectly to taking atmospheric strolls along winding lanes while admiring the beautifully restored Ottoman houses. The old city wraps around a beautiful Roman-era harbor where you can enjoy spectacular clifftop views. Another way to enjoy amazing panoramic views is to travel up to Mount Tahtali in a cable car to look out over the coastline and the Taurus Mountains. A honeymoon hotel here also means a plethora of prehistoric monuments are only a day trip away –an exceptional way to get further insight into ancient Turkey. Antalya is an excellent base for excursions to ancient sites like Termessos, Aspendos, and Perge, or Iassos and Phaselis, a bit further away. A visit to Ephesus is one of the most popular day trips you can make, but given that the journey takes three hours in each direction it might be wise to overnight there and spend a few leisurely days. Closer to home, the ancient city of Pedesa is located in the hills above Bodrum. The Turkish Riviera is also a great place to swim or suntan on the beautiful, sandy Lara beach. On the way to the beach, the Lower Düden waterfall plunges straight into the sea, and you can walk behind the Upper Düden falls for a thrilling experience. The nearby Kurşunlu Waterfall and Nilüfer Lake offers nature lovers’ a chance to immerse themselves in the superb natural beauty and close the day in a truly romantic way before heading back to enjoy the comfort of your honeymoon hotel in Turkey.