Istanbul, also known as the “City of Love,” is a place where history and culture collide to create a truly magical experience for couples. From candlelit dinners to breathtaking views, Istanbul has it all. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, an anniversary trip, or just a special getaway, Istanbul should be at the top of your list. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the most romantic places in Istanbul, including hidden gems and popular landmarks, as well as romantic places to stay to help you plan the perfect romantic getaway. So, grab your loved one, and let’s explore the romantic side of Istanbul together!
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Romantic Places in Istanbul for Couples
Emirgan Park
This large park covers an area of 117 acres in the Sariyer district of Istanbul on the European Side. Its vast size makes it one of the largest parks in the city.
Emirgan Park has sweeping views of the Bosphorus since it’s built into the hillside.
The park is well-maintained by the city and features 2 ponds with wooden walk bridges, picnic tables, walking and running paths, and 3 historic Pavilions that were mansions belonging to previous Pashas of the Sultan.
During the annual Tulip Festival held in the Spring, Emirgan Park is one of the most romantic places in Istanbul. Each year there are millions of colorful tulips planted here making it very picturesque for romantic wedding and engagement photos.
Yoros Castle
Overlooking the narrowest section of the Bosphorus, high up on a hilltop on the Asian side of Istanbul is Yoros Castle. This castle dates back to the Byzantine times of Istanbul and is currently located in the district of Beykoz.
What makes Yoros Castle a romantic place for couples in Istanbul is the fact that is it far from the hustle and bustle of the city. At Yoros Castle you’ll be transported to a quiet, almost countryside-like, atmosphere. You and your partner will see magnificent views of the Bosphorus and the Black Sea from the top of the steep bluffs.
This is a great place to spend the afternoon or watch the sunset.
A short walk down from the castle are many cafes where you can get some Turkish tea and some sweets while enjoying the view.
Princes’ Island
A day trip to Princes’ Island is a romantic way to spend the day with your partner in Istanbul. Located just an hour away by ferry, Princes’ Island provides a serene city escape for those looking to recharge.
Historically, these islands were places of banishment during the Byzantine and Ottoman times. However, during the 19th century, the islands became a place for the wealthy to build second residences. The homes were built with wood using a Victorian-era style.
Many of the houses today are preserved and it’s enjoyable to wander through the neighborhoods to look at all the adorable historical mansions and cottages.
Motor vehicles are not allowed on the island so the main form of transportation is a bicycle. You can easily find rental shops in the town center and take them around the island for the whole day.
I recommend walking up to the highest point on the biggest island, Büyükada, to see the Greek Orthodox Church.
Romantic Experiences in Istanbul
Couples Hamam Experience at Suleymaniye Hamam
Built in 1550, the historic building is located in Eminönü and was designed by the famous architect, Mimar Sinan. It features arched and domed ceilings with marble inlay on the walls. The entrance hall is designed and built with warm wood tones making it very inviting for guests.
There are very few places that allow men and women to enjoy the Turkish bath experience together in Istanbul, but Suleymaniye Hamam specializes in just that.
As a couple, you will be able to simultaneously have a relaxing Turkish bath experience that lasts for 90 minutes.
Take a Workshop Class at Les Arts Turcs
If you’re the kind of couple that likes hands-on experiences, then is workshop will be a great way to show off your artistic skills to one another.
Les Arts Turcs is an art gallery and cultural center in Sultanahmet. They specialize in many different workshops including cooking, dancing, soap making, jewelry, and mosaic classes.
One class that is particularly interesting is the Turkish Marbling – Ebru Lesson. Ebru is a type of art that is made with paper and water to create a marble effect. It is similar to printmaking but takes many years to master.
You’ll learn about the history of this art form and how to create it from local Turkish artisans.
Jazz Concert at Zorlu Performing Arts Center
Enjoy a delightfully romantic evening of Jazz music at Touché inside Zorlu Center. There are many different local Turkish musicians that put on beautiful performances here. You and your partner can get dressed up for a great cultural evening.
In addition to musical performances, Zorlu Center also has theater productions. They are currently in their 10th season, which includes internationally recognized stories like Peter Pan and Alice in Wonderland, as well as original Turkish stories.
You can check upcoming events on their website and purchase tickets.
Private Sunset Bosphorus Yacht Tour
There’s nothing more romantic than a private sunset yacht tour of the grand city of Istanbul.
Hire a boat from the Bebek Marina for 2-3 hours in the evening and enjoy the sights of the city from the Bosphorus as the sun sets. You can take some food and wine with you aboard the boat (this may also be included in the price of your charter). The staff will be more than happy to set up a romantic table for you, just let them know ahead of time.
To find a yacht, you can search on GetMyBoat.com or simply visit the Marina and ask the captain for availability and pricing. Many boats have signs saying that they are available for hire.
As you cruise along the Bosphorus, you’ll see many historic buildings that belonged to significant members of the royal family. Admire the architecture as you travel past multiple million-dollar mansions.
Romantic Restaurants in Istanbul
Romantic Dinner at The Sarnic
Address: Cankurtaran, Soğuk Çeşme Sk. No:26, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Located in the Old City just behind the historic Hagia Sophia is a unique Turkish and Ottoman cuisine restaurant called The Sarnic.
This particular place was built inside a 1,500-year-old cistern. For dinner expect a warm and cozy atmosphere with mood lighting and a soothing fireplace.
The evening will also be accompanied by either a DJ or live music performance.
Afternoon Tea at Pera Palace Hotel
Address: Evliya Çelebi, Meşrutiyet Caddesi, Tepebaşı Cd. No:52, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
Indulge in Afternoon Tea here from 15:00 – 18:00 every day in the romantic Kubbeli Lounge. Relax in the red velvet antique furniture while you admire the interior decor and the 6 domed ceiling.
Tea is served in the hotel’s custom metal teapots with ceramic tea cups. You’ll enjoy a buffet of finger sandwiches, delicious pastries, and sweets from the Michelin Star chef İbrahim Özçiftçi. There is also a live pianist who can play just about anything you request.
The Pera Palace Hotel is one of the top romantic places in Istanbul. The historic 5-star hotel is located in Beyoğlu. It’s famous for being the hotel of choice for guests arriving from the luxurious Orient Express train from Paris in the early 1900s. There have also been many notable guests that have stayed at the Pera Palace such as Agatha Christie, who supposedly wrote Murder on the Orient Express while staying here, as well as Jackie Kennedy and Ernest Hemingway.
After tea time, be sure to walk around the hotel to see the very first electric elevator in Constantinople.
Viktor Levi Şarap Evi
Address: Caferağa Mh Moda Cd. &, Damacı Sk. No:4, 34710 Kadıköy, Türkiye
This wine house is located on the Asian side of Istanbul in Kadikoy. It was started by a man named Viktor Levi from the Gallipoli Peninsula on the Western coast of Turkey. He had a business selling wholesale grapes and sardines. When he came to Istanbul he started seeing a demand for wine, which inspired his wine business.
Today, the restaurant has its own label of wine as well as a selection of imported wines from various European countries. Together you and your partner can dine in the spacious outdoor garden and enjoy a variety of Turkish and international cuisines.
Garden 1897 Restaurant
Located in the historic Sultanahmet neighborhood of Istanbul, Garden 1897 operates inside a renovated 19th-century mansion. The outdoor enchanting garden is the main dining area.
The restaurant prides itself on creating a culinary journey through time offering Ottoman cuisine and tastefully explaining how it transforms into modern Turkish cuisine. You’ll be able to enjoy many different stews, kebabs, fish, chicken, and lamb dishes.
Romantic Honeymoon Hotels in Istanbul
Çırağan Palace Kempinski
Address: Yıldız, Çırağan Cd. No:32, 34349 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
The luxurious Kempinski brand started in 1897 in Germany and has since been developed worldwide. They are recognized for their world-class personalized customer experience.
At Çırağan Palace, you’ll be staying at the only former Ottoman Imperial Palace on the Bosphorus that has been transformed into a hotel. There are over 200 rooms and suites, an outdoor pool surrounded by well-maintained gardens overlooking the Bosphorus, a relaxing Turkish bath and spa, a fitness center, and one of the best fine-dining restaurants in Istanbul, Tuğra Restaurant.
Raffles Istanbul
Address: Levazım, Koru Sok. Zorlu Center, 34340 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
The Raffles brand started in Singapore in 1887 with just 10 rooms. Since then it has become one of the top luxury brands in hospitality earning numerous awards such as the winner of the World Spa Award by World Spa Awards in 2021, and is rated in the top 10 World’s Best Hotel Brands in 2022.
At Raffles Istanbul, you and your partner will be staying in the heart of the city’s shopping, art, and entertainment center. Zorlu Performing Arts Center and Zorlu Center are just around the corner and easily accessible from the hotel. If romantic jazz nights and theater shows intrigue you both, then this will be the hotel for you.
The hotel itself has many spacious elegant rooms and suites that overlook the city. There are 7 different dining options including Isokyo which features a playful and interactive Pan-Asian cuisine with creative presentations. And don’t forget the rejuvenating spa packages.
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul At Sultanahmet
Address: Sultanahmet, Tevkifhane Sk. No:1, 34122, Türkiye
Located in the center of the most historic area of Istanbul, The Four Seasons Hotel at Sultanahmet is your gateway to discovering all that Istanbul has to offer.
The iconic gold-yellow building was designed by architect Mimar Kemaleddin in 1918. It is a traditional Turkish Neo-Classical design with towers, arches, and domes, many of which you can still see today. The hotel is surrounded by the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Bosphorus.
By staying here for your romantic honeymoon destination, you’ll be able to explore the culture and food of Istanbul right outside the hotel’s doors. Paired with the Four Seasons’ extraordinary customer service, your romantic getaway will surely be unforgettable.
The Peninsula Istanbul
Address: Karaköy, Kemankeş Karamustafapaşa Mahallesi, Kemankeş Cd. No:34, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
The Peninsula Hotel brand started in 1928 at its flagship location in Hong Kong. They have since expanded to 12 cities around the world sharing the very best in Asian hospitality.
The Peninsula Istanbul is the 11th hotel to open for the brand. The opening date is set for the most romantic day of the year, 14th February 2023.
Situated right on the shores of the Bosphorus in the hip district of Karaköy, the hotel occupies 3 historic buildings and 1 brand-new building. The rooms and suites have magnificent views of Topkapi Palace across the Golden Horn as well as views of the Asian side of Istanbul. The newly opened GalataPort is right next door, offering amazing shopping and dining experiences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Istanbul is a city that truly has it all for couples looking for a romantic getaway. From breathtaking views to candlelit dinners, there are endless romantic experiences to be had in Istanbul. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s rich history and culture, indulge in delicious local cuisine, or simply relax and unwind with your loved one, Istanbul has something for everyone.
I hope this blog post has inspired you to plan your own romantic trip to Istanbul and that you’ll be able to experience all that this beautiful city has to offer. Remember, Istanbul is not just the city of love, but the city of many stories and experiences, so don’t forget to make your own story while you’re here.
