Romantic Delights in Istanbul: A Sensuous Day Trip

Discover Love's Magic in Istanbul's Enchanted Arms.

29 August 2023

Embark on a romantic journey to Istanbul, Turkey, where ancient history meets vibrant modernity. Explore the city's iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, strolling hand-in-hand through their intricately decorated interiors. Indulge in culinary delights at charming rooftop restaurants while taking in panoramic views of the Bosphorus, creating unforgettable memories together in this timeless and enchanting destination.

Day trip plan

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Day

A Sensuous Stroll through Sultanahmet

  • Begin your day with a tantalizing Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi, where a symphony of cheese, olives, and honey dances on your taste buds.
  • Immerse yourself in history at the Hagia Sophia, a bewitching blend of Byzantine grace and Ottoman grandeur. Marvel at its soaring dome and exquisite mosaics.
  • Wander hand in hand through the alluring Blue Mosque, its mystical atmosphere and delicate blue tiles inviting you to take a moment of silent reflection.
  • Indulge in retail therapy at the Grand Bazaar, a labyrinth of stalls where treasures from the East and West beckon. Bargain, flirt, and get lost in the exotic swirl of colors and scents.
  • Savor the fragrant spices and succulent kebabs at Pandeli Restaurant, perched atop the Spice Bazaar. Let the flavors transport you to a realm where taste reigns supreme.
  • Let the day come to a crescendo with a sunset boat ride along the shimmering Bosphorus, as the silhouette of Istanbul's skyline becomes a breathtaking sight you're unlikely to forget.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Istanbul, Turkey by plane is to fly into Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), depending on your airline and preferences. Both airports offer numerous domestic and international flights.

Car

Driving to Istanbul is possible if you are in a neighboring country, such as Bulgaria or Greece. You can cross the border and follow the E80 highway towards Istanbul. The exact route and duration will vary depending on your starting point.

Train

There is no direct train service to Istanbul from other countries, but you can take a train to a nearby city like Sofia, Bulgaria or Bucharest, Romania, then continue the journey by bus or plane to Istanbul.

Boat

If you are traveling from a nearby Mediterranean country, you can consider taking a ferry or cruise ship to Istanbul. There are no direct routes from major European ports, but you can find various cruises that include Istanbul as a stop on their itinerary.

Bus

Taking a bus to Istanbul is a convenient option, with many European cities offering direct routes. For example, you can take a bus from Athens, Greece to Istanbul by companies like KTEL or Karavostasi. The journey takes approximately 11-12 hours.

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