Ahh, Istanbul! Is there any other place as enchanting? As the only capital city on two continents, there's so much to see and do here. Even for couples too! If you're in the city with your special someone, don't forget to check out places like Basilica Cistern, Beylerbeyi Palace, Maiden’s Tower, The Princes’ Islands, and Hagia Sophia. These are five of the most romantic spots in Istanbul. Some of them provide the perfect atmosphere for some lovey-dovey time. While others offer exciting adventures that you and your partner will never forget. Don't miss your chance to revel in the romance of Istanbul!
Basilica Cistern
You almost couldn't believe that such a place like Basilica Cistern exists. This underground attraction served as the water filtration system for the Great Palace of Constantinople, so the history of the place alone is already something else. But when you and your significant other actually get here, you'll truly feel its ancient appeal. Now, why is such a place romantic? Because its eerieness lets you appreciate each other's company even more. It's exciting to go here on your own, sure, but it's also great to explore it hand-in-hand with your partner. That'd be quite the couple's adventure!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Beylerbeyi Palace
The Turkish capital amps up its old-world charm with another centuries-old structure, the Beylerbeyi Palace. Located in the
Istanbul neighborhood of the same name, it served as the former summer residence of the Ottoman sultans. This was also where they hosted the various nobility, both local and foreign. Hence, its name means 'Palace of the Lord of Lords' in English. And thank goodness that the palace has retained its other-worldly opulence. From its Baroque halls to the well-manicured gardens, you won't see a more elegantly romantic spot than this. Make sure to check it out with your special someone!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Maiden’s Tower
Can you handle a dinner date in a former lighthouse in the middle of the Marmara Sea? Don't worry! The experience isn't as scary as it sounds. In fact, it's utterly romantic! The Maiden’s Tower is a former lighthouse-turned-restaurant perched on its own islet. You'll need to take a ferry to get here and back. Luckily, they're a part of
Istanbul's public transport so it's easy to catch one. And when you get here, you can indulge in some fine European and Asian dishes. All while you enjoy the relative peace and quiet that this scenic escape offers. What's not to love?
Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Princes’ Islands
Classic architecture, lush greeneries, turquoise waters, and horse-drawn carriages. Those all sound like the perfect ingredients to make a romantic spot, don't they? And it's a good thing that you can see all of that in The Princes’ Islands. This is a nine-island archipelago that makes up the coast of the Turkish capital. More than just its separation from the rest of the city by the sea, the vibe and energy here are also extremely different. It has a retro quality to it, sure, but it's not as old-world as the other famous tourist attractions in Istanbul. You can say that it's almost like the city's own answer to Italy's
Lake Como or the
French Riviera!
Source: Flickr.com/ Guilhem Vellut
Hagia Sophia
And finally, there's the iconic Hagia Sophia. The symbol of Istanbul and of Turkey itself, the monument is right up there with the likes of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Big Ben in London, and the Colosseum in Rome. It's not a stretch to say that most tourists travel all the way to Istanbul just to see it in person. Its real-life majesty is practically palpitating. Considering its centuries-long history and cultural significance, visiting the place might just overwhelm you. And that's why it's better to see it with your special someone. You can share all your emotions with each other as you bask in Hagia Sophia's heavenly glory.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Discover Istanbul's five most romantic spots and experience just how magical the city really is. The Turkish capital is already one of the most popular cities out there, but these places will make you fall deeper in love with the place.
