It’s Valentines Day or ‘Lovers Day’ as they call it here in Turkey, the day when all those that have either found love, on the hunt for a partner or independent and happy, celebrate.
Turkey is a romantic country. Think about it, Helen and Paris, Anthony and Cleopatra, Suleyman and Hurrem – the most famous lovers in history, all fell in love in Turkey. The countries astounding beauty and diversity means there is an ideal destination to relax and enjoy time with a loved one no matter what kind of budget you have or location you’re after.
Travel experts are tipping Turkey as the ‘go to’ destination this year and that’s hardly surprising. Incredible scenery, clear blue seas, history and excitement all await visitors. To celebrate this lovers day we thought we would suggest our top 5 romantic destinations in Turkey.
ENJOY THE OTHER-WORLDLY CHARM OF CAPPADOCIA.
If you are a keen photographer or Instagram fan, take your loved one, escape the hustle and bustle of a busy life and head to the unique geological oddity that is Cappadocia. Marvel at the otherworldly landscape and the cave dwellings, churches, businesses and wineries dug deep into the whimsical fairytale chimneys, rocks and cliffsides. Be a troglodyte for the night staying in a 21st Century boutique cave hotel. Start the day exhilarated with a hot air balloon ride over Goreme National Park. Spend the rest of the day exploring fresco-clad rock churches or the refuges of Derinkuyu and Kaymakl. Cappadocia is undeniably a fabulous location any time of the year and our No.1 romantic escape in Turkey.
EXPLORE THE MAGIC OF ISTANBUL
Join the likes of JFK Jr. who took his new wife Carolyn Bessette to Istanbul on their honeymoon, and head to this fascinating city that so rightly deserves its spot as one of the most romantic destinations in the world. The city where East meets West, where it’s almost impossible to get bored, there’s something to see or do in Istanbul that will appeal to the most romantic or adventurous of souls. With its vast history, superb shopping, enticing entertainment and a wonderful array of restaurants and bars suiting all tastes and budgets, a visit to Istanbul makes the ideal romantic getaway.
GET AWAY FROM IT ALL IN THE NOT SO ‘UGLY’ VILLAGE OF ŞIRINCE.
According to local legend, the undeniably pretty and romantic village of Şirince was once known as ‘Çirkince’, meaning ‘ugly’ in Turkish. So taken were the locals with the area’s beauty, they wanted it’s charm to remain a secret. Located not far from Izmir, it has a special atmosphere ideal for a romantic and peaceful getaway. Enjoy the local wine, share a local meal and walk around the warren of pretty Ottoman homes. There are a few lovely hotels and shops so if you are seeking a truly romantic break from the crowds, Sirince is hard to beat.
ENJOY A SUNDOWNER WITH SEA VIEWS IN KALKAN
Be wooed by sea views in the sophisticated Mediterranean resort of Kalkan in Antalya Province. A pretty old fishing town between Kas and Fethiye, it’s famed for its bougainvillaea clad whitewashed houses, fancy infinity pooled hotels and charming array of restaurants. Take a stroll through the old narrow streets filled with cafes, boutiques and bistros, or simply stay put in your fancy hotel and enjoy a sundown drink staring across the bay as the sun sets. Kalkan is the ideal romantic location for all those that enjoy relaxing and enjoying wonderful surroundings with their loved one.
ENJOY A BREAK IN BREATH-TAKING BODRUM
Do as celebrities like Ronaldo and Catherine Zita-Jones do and head for the cosmopolitan resort of Bodrum. The Old Town and centre offer great shopping and entertainment, ideal for those that enjoy a night out. Alternatively, the pretty peninsular and surrounding resorts home a lovely mix of romantic villages ideal for a couples escape. If you’re seeking a diverse mix of luxury, history, party and peace, Bodrum is a great choice and one of the most popular coastal and romantic destinations in Turkey for good reason.
So there you have it, our top 5 most romantic destinations in Turkey. All the above are great to visit at any time so do make sure you come over and check them out, whatever the occasion.
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