Looking for the most romantic cities in Turkey? You’re in the right place! This country has dozens of romantic spots, including the natural beauty of the Black Sea, the glitz and glamor of Aegean beaches, the historic charm of big cities, and everything in between.
Imagine cozy cabins in lush mountains, nighttime strolls (warm breeze included) along the waterfront, and soaring in a hot air balloon over surreal landscapes. Add in intimate dinners, breathtaking sunsets, and plenty of hidden gems, and you’ve got a recipe for romance. 🙂
Whether you’re looking for a quick romantic weekend in Turkey or an extended honeymoon getaway, this blog post will help you choose your next destination!
ISTANBUL
Perfect for: Everyone!
Of course, we had to start with the most famous city in Türkiye — Istanbul!
With all of its attractions and things to do, you could easily spend your entire honeymoon in Istanbul. In fact, it has something for everyone: fans of history can tour the Old Town (including the Basilica Cistern, Hagia Sophia, the Old Walls of Constantinople, and the various museums), while foodie couples can enjoy local dishes or go on a food tour in Kadıköy.
Craving a low-key trip? Walking along the Bebek seashore is a cute idea, or taking a slow day trip around the Bosphorus by ferry.
Some of our favorite romantic places in Istanbul include the Prince Islands, the romantic little alleys near Galata, and the cute neighborhood of Kuzguncuk.
Speaking of the Galata Tower… There’s a well-known legend that says that whomever you climb this historic tower with, you are destined to marry. No wonder you’ll see a lot of couples queuing up to go up to the tower!
Actually, why wait to get married? Galata Tower is also one of the most popular places to propose in Istanbul *wink wink*. No wonder Istanbul is one of the top romantic destinations in Turkey. 😉
Must-do: Take a ferry across the Bosphorus | Check out the local Asian side of Istanbul | Visit the Prince Islands | Go on a yummy food tour | Climb up Galata Tower together | See the sunset from Galataport | Enjoy a hammam together | See all the best tours here →
Where to stay: Lord Morgan Design Cihangir is a stylish design hotel located in a cute bohemian neighborhood, while Pera Palace is a grand classic (it used to host travelers aboard the Orient Express!).
Hotel Empress Zoe is an excellent option if you want a beautifully-designed hotel right in the heart of the Old Town. For the ultimate in luxury, look no further than Six Senses Kocatas Mansions, which is located right on the Bosphorus — it’s one of the most romantic hotels in Istanbul!
ALAÇATI
Perfect for: Relaxing
A list of the most romantic places to visit in Turkey wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the idyllic town of Alaçatı!
In fact, Alaçatı is the definition of a picturesque town, with its beautifully-restored stone houses, cute streets, and bougainvillea-framed alleys. It feels as if you’ve been transported to a seaside fairytale – every moment is like a scene from a romance novel. Just look at those photos! 😍
Alaçatı is perfect for couples looking for a laid-back escape. Spend your mornings wandering the cobblestone streets, afternoons sipping Turkish coffee in flower-draped cafes, and evenings dining al fresco under the soft glow of lanterns. Oh, and don’t forget to check out the windmills – they’re iconic here and look extra dreamy at sunset!
Be sure to read our Alaçatı Travel Guide for all the information or consider a trip to both Alaçatı and Çeşme (they’re 15 minutes apart!)
Must-do: Explore the cobblestone streets | Visit Alaçatı’s historic windmills | Relax at Ilıca Beach | Shop for local crafts and vintage finds | Try local wines at a vineyard | See all tours here →
Where to stay: For a romantic stay, check out Alavya Hotel for its luxury boutique vibes, or GAIA Alaçatı for its stylish boho rooms.
AYVALIK
Perfect for: Relaxing & local vibes
If you love the idea of Alaçatı but want something a little more authentic and less touristy, Ayvalık is a great choice.
This charming seaside town on Turkey’s north Aegean coast is known for its historic stone architecture, scenic waterfront, and laid-back atmosphere. Think romantic walks along the coast and lazy afternoons in hidden cafes. It’s more local than Alaçatı, making it perfect for those who prefer off-the-beaten-path experiences.
(No wonder Ayvalık is often regarded as one of the best places to go in Turkey for couples! ;))
Ayvalık is also famous for its olive oil and seafood taverns, where you can enjoy a sunset dinner overlooking the sea. Plus, nearby Cunda Island is a must-visit for its bohemian cafes and lush groves.
Must-do: Stroll along the harbor | Visit Cunda Island | Sample local olive oils | Relax at a beach club | Dine on fresh seafood by the sea
Where to stay: Stay at the Despot’s House for a boutique island experience or opt for Kidalyo Hotel for a more traditional, romantic stay with stone architecture.
CAPPADOCIA
Perfect for: Relaxing & adventure
Cappadocia is the most popular honeymoon destination in Turkey – so it must be romantic, right? 😉
Cappadocia is like stepping into a dream, with its otherworldly landscapes, fairy chimneys, and magical sunrises filled with hot air balloons. It’s the ultimate place for both adventure and romance!
Imagine waking up in a luxury cave hotel, soaring above the fairy chimneys in a balloon, and ending the day with a candlelit dinner overlooking the valley. It’s perfect for couples who love a bit of adventure but also appreciate those cozy moments.
Must-do: Go on an unforgettable hot air balloon ride | Stay in a luxury cave hotel | Explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum | Hike through Love Valley | Enjoy a romantic sunset dinner | See all tours here →
Where to stay: For luxury, check into Museum Hotel with its panoramic terraces, or choose Argos in Cappadocia for romantic cave suites and vineyard views (they have their own vineyard — how cool is that?).
BOZCAADA
Perfect for: Island relaxation & Wine lovers
If you’re looking for laid-back island vibes with a dash of local flavor, then Bozcaada is your Turkish honeymoon spot. As Turkey’s largest island, it’s known for unspoiled nature, scenic villages, and authentic island vibes.
Likewise, the island is famous for its wines — in fact, vineyards cover much of its rolling landscape, making it perfect for aficionados. Explore wineries, sip local wines in quaint cafés, and enjoy leisurely afternoons wandering cobblestone streets.
Be sure to explore Bozcaada Castle for incredible sea views and history, and spend a lazy afternoon soaking up the sun at the stunning Ayazma Beach. Don’t miss the sunset from Polente Lighthouse (a local favorite!) — pack a picnic and toast to your future!
Must-do: Tour local vineyards and wineries | Relax at Ayazma Beach | Explore Bozcaada Castle | Wander through the Greek Quarter | Watch the sunset at Polente Lighthouse
Where to stay: Book a charming room at TaşAda for beautiful sea views, or opt for Ada Bacchus Hotel surrounded by vineyards for a romantic countryside feel (hence the name!).
IZMIR
Perfect for: City life
Why is Izmir ideal for a romantic trip? For starters, you can enjoy a long walk on the Kordon (seaside promenade) during sunset, holding hands and watching the sky turn golden. There’s definitely something magical about the Aegean breeze here.
But that’s not all – İzmir is the perfect base for romantic day trips! It’s just a short drive to charming towns like Alaçatı, Çeşme, and Şirince, and it’s also the gateway to ancient Ephesus and the seaside resort of Kuşadası.
Fun fact: Izmir was the first city that we visited. Mr. Kedi professed his love to Ms. Kedi, and 3 years later we got married. Maybe love really is in the air in Izmir after all? 🙂
Must-do: Walk along the Kordon at sunset | Go on a day trip to Ephesus | Explore the Kemeralti Bazaar | Visit the historic Asansör for panoramic views on an Izmir city tour | Take a ferry to Karşıyaka | Enjoy a seaside coffee in Alsancak | See all tours here →
Where to stay: For luxury, try the central Swissôtel Büyük Efes Izmir with its chic pool bar and sea views, or opt for EN Hotel Boutique Izmir for a stylish and central stay (it’s right across the ferry station!).
ŞIRINCE
Perfect for: Relaxing & foodies
Just a short drive from İzmir and near the famous Ephesus ruins, Şirince is a quaint little village that’s famous for its fruit wines, cobblestone streets, and rustic vibes.
Wander through the narrow lanes, sip wine in local taverns, and shop for handmade soaps and olive oil. The village is tiny, but it’s packed with charm – perfect for a romantic day or overnight stay!
Must-do: Taste local fruit wines | Explore traditional stone houses | Shop for handmade olive oil and soaps | Visit the St. John Baptist Church | Enjoy a village breakfast with stunning views | See all tours here →
Where to stay: Stay at Nisanyan Houses, a gorgeous boutique hotel with an idyllic countryside feel. If that’s booked, we also love Terrace Houses Sirince and Stonehouse.
KAŞ
Perfect for: A quiet getaway
What happens when you take beautiful crystal blue waters, sweet bougainvillea-covered streets, and a small-town vibe? You get Kaş!
Kaş is the perfect place to stroll hand-in-hand with your lover, relax on a classic Mediterranean beach, or enjoy a candlelit dinner in a local restaurant. Thanks to Kaş’s small size (there are less than 65,000 people), it offers an intimate atmosphere that feels like a hidden paradise just for the two of you.
Best of all, this cute little seaside town is still fairly unknown to most tourists, yet is just a 2-hour drive from Fethiye or a 3-hour drive from Antalya. It’s also an excellent stop along any Turquoise Coast road trip!
Must-do: Explore the center | Take a day trip to Kekova Island | Visit the island of Meis (Kastellorizo) | Take a day trip to Kaputaş Beach | See all tours here →
Where to stay: Kas Athena Hotel for boho chic and sea views, Luna Kas for a traditional stone house with sea view balconies, or Doria Hotel Yacht Club Kaş for a peaceful retreat in seaside bungalow-style homes!
DATÇA
Perfect for: A quiet getaway
If your idea of romance is peace, privacy, and gorgeous beaches, add Datça to your itinerary! This lesser-known peninsula on Turkey’s southwest coast is ideal for couples who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet honeymoon.
The Datça Peninsula is famous for its untouched beauty, and you’ll find everything from crystal-clear waters, secluded bays, flower-lined streets, and scenic olive groves. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a road trip around the peninsula, watch the sunset from Knidos Lighthouse, and fall asleep to the sound of the waves.
Read more about this cute gem in our Datça Travel Guide → and don’t forget to visit Old Datça (Eski Datça) with this guide — it’s just a 15-minute drive from the center! →
Must-do: Visit the ancient city of Knidos | Swim at the secluded beaches of Ovabükü and Hayıtbükü | Take a boat trip to hidden coves | Enjoy sunset dining by the sea | Wander through Datça Old Town
Where to stay: Opt for Bademli Konak Otel for a boutique stay in a traditional house, or choose Eski Datça Otel for a romantic and cozy retreat.
ESKİŞEHİR
Perfect for: Off the beaten path travel
Yes, Eskişehir is a bit of a wild card, but it’s also the perfect destination for couples who love going beyond the usual tourist trail! 😉 Known for its university vibes, art culture, and river gondola, Eskişehir is a quirky and creative city that feels vibrant, cozy, and local.
The city is famous for its canals, often earning it the nickname “the Venice of Turkey.” In the spring, you can enjoy a romantic gondola ride down the Porsuk River while the city passes by.
Eskişehir also has a thriving art scene – don’t miss the Odunpazarı Modern Museum (OMM), a beautifully designed space showcasing modern Turkish and international art. For something unique, explore the quirky Sazova Park, known for its fairytale castle and scenic lake (perfect for playful honeymoon photos :)).
Best of all, Eskişehir is just a 3-hour train ride from Istanbul, so you can enjoy a quick weekend break (or continue onward to Ankara and beyond).
Must-do: Gondola ride along the river | Visit the Odunpazarı Modern Museum (OMM) | Wander the historic Odunpazarı district | Stroll through Sazova Park
Where to stay: For a chic and modern stay, check into OMM INN (it’s run by the art museum!), or for something more boutique, try the charming Yuva Butik near the old town.
SAFRANBOLU
Perfect for: A low-key charming city break
Safranbolu is a cute little UNESCO World Heritage-listed town that’s one of Turkey’s best-preserved examples of Ottoman architecture, with its timber-framed houses, cobblestone streets, and charming ambiance.
Wandering through Safranbolu feels like going back in time — you’ll find traditional Turkish mansions, old bazaars, hamams, and even a caravanserai (Silk Road inn). It’s perfect for couples who love exploring heritage towns and soaking in local culture. Don’t forget to stop by a local shop to buy saffron – the town’s namesake and a prized spice.
Psst — we also have a Safranbolu travel guide (click here to check it out!) →
Must-do: Explore the historic Ottoman mansions | Visit the old bazaar| Relax in a traditional hamam | Check out the Turkish Coffee Museum (our favorite!) | See all tours here →
Where to stay: Check into Gulevi Safranbolu for an authentic mansion stay, or try Dadibra Konak Hotel for a rustic and cozy experience.
THE BLACK SEA
Perfect for: Nature
Dreaming of lush green mountains, misty highlands, and wooden cabins overlooking valleys? The Black Sea region in Turkey – particularly Trabzon and Rize – is where nature-loving couples will find their paradise.
Start in Trabzon, known for its historical landmarks and dramatic coastal scenery. Visit the iconic Sumela Monastery, located high on a cliff, and enjoy a stroll through the city’s lively streets. Then head towards Rize for breathtaking highlands like Ayder Yaylası, where you can relax in a cozy wooden cabin and wake up to views of mist-draped mountains.
Of course, no mention of Rize is complete without talking about its famous tea plantations. Rize is the tea capital of Turkey, and visiting the lush green tea gardens is a must! You can enjoy tea tastings, learn about the production process, and even take in panoramic views from tea houses.
Just an hour from Rize is another romantic place in the Black Sea, Uzungöl, a stunning alpine lake surrounded by dense forests and steep mountains. This fairytale-like setting is perfect for a romantic walk around the lake, hiring a boat, or enjoying a cozy dinner in a lakeside restaurant.
If you love hiking, picnicking, and natural escapes, then you’ll definitely fall in love with the Black Sea region!
Must-do: Visit Sumela Monastery | Stay in a wooden cabin in Ayder Yaylası | Go on a scenic hike in the Kaçkar Mountains | Explore tea plantations in Rize | Take a boat ride on Uzungöl Lake | See all tours here →
Where to stay: Book a rustic cabin at Ayder Doga Resort for that highland charm (and views!!), or stay at Zorlu Grand Hotel in Trabzon for luxury comforts close to the city center.
AMASYA
Perfect for: A Romantic riverside retreat
Speaking of the Black Sea… Amasya is another lesser-known gem, perfect for couples seeking a destination that’s both romantic and beautifully low-key. With its graceful Ottoman mansions and setting along the scenic Yeşilırmak River, Amasya feels like something out of a fantasy.
What makes Amasya truly unique are its beautifully preserved historical houses, built along the riverbank, creating lovely reflections on the water — particularly magical during twilight. History buffs will adore exploring the cliffside tombs of ancient Pontic kings, while the city’s quaint cobblestone streets and old mosques offer plenty of charm and culture.
Although it’s a bit of a hike, don’t miss the view from Amasya Castle — the panorama overlooking the town and river valley is amazing! For a special memory, book a private boat tour along the river. For even more things to do, check out our Amasya Travel Guide →
Must-do: Stay in an Ottoman mansions | Visit Amasya Castle | See the ancient Pontic tombs | Take a scenic boat ride along Yeşilırmak River | Visit the historic Sultan Beyazıt II Mosque
Where to stay: Stay at the charming riverside Ziyagil Konağı for Ottoman elegance (where we stayed!), or choose the boho Amasya Atabey Konağı for comfort and lovely river views.
BODRUM
Perfect for: Jet-set vibes & Beach vacations
If you’re dreaming of sun-drenched beaches, glamorous beach clubs, and sleek yachts, Bodrum is the place to be. Known as Turkey’s answer to the French Riviera, it’s a hotspot for luxury, nightlife, and seaside relaxation.
Spend your days lounging on private beaches, exploring the Bodrum Castle, or sailing along the turquoise coast on a traditional gulet boat. When night falls, Bodrum comes alive with rooftop bars, exclusive beach clubs, and waterfront restaurants. It’s a perfect mix of chic luxury and vibrant energy – ideal for couples who want it all.
Psst… Did you know you can also visit Greece on a day trip from Bodrum? Kos island is just 25 km (14 mi) from Bodrum and can easily be visited in a day — our Kos Day Trip Itinerary has all the details! →
Must-do: Wander the charming streets of Bodrum Old Town on a day tour | Stroll around Bodrum Castle | Enjoy dinner at a local vineyard | Take a day trip to Orak Island | Relax at an exclusive beach club | See all tours here →
Where to stay: For pure luxury, book a suite at The Bodrum EDITION. For a boutique vibe, try Costa Maya Bodrum, known for its lush gardens and serene pool, or Radisson Collection Hotel Bodrum for a quiet and romantic stay.
Check out our Where to Stay in Bodrum blog post, which details the top 10 areas in Bodrum (plus the best hotels in each!) →
MARDIN
Perfect for: History & Cultural charm
Mardin is one of those places that feels timeless. Perched on a hillside overlooking the Mesopotamian plains, it’s a maze of golden-stone streets, ancient architecture, and rich cultural traditions that stretch back centuries.
It’s easy to lose track of time here. You might find yourself wandering quiet alleys, peeking into old courtyards, or sipping Turkish tea at a cafe with a view.
The Deyrulzafaran Monastery is a must-see, with its intricate stonework and fascinating history, while the Zinciriye Medrese offers one of the best spots to take in the city’s views. And yes, the bazaar is as lively as you’d expect — perfect for picking up local crafts, spices, and that famous almond candy Mardin is known for.
Must-do: Visit Deyrulzafaran Monastery | Explore Zinciriye Medrese | Wander the Mardin Bazaar | Take in panoramic views from Mardin Castle | See all tours here →
Where to stay: Stay at Mirsoum Han for a traditional stone mansion experience or Maridin Hotel for unforgettable modern comforts with historical flair.
