10 Romantic Things to do in Istanbul, Part 1

1 - Emirgan Park.  Beautiful woodland which has survived from the Bosphorus' ancient era. the gardens were a gift from Sultan Murad IV to his battlefield friend Emir Gune Han, the Prince of Iran, in the 17th century. Now publicly owned, the park boasts pretty pavilions, tranquil lakes and cafes with impressive tulip fields. 

Emirgan Park

2 - Belgrade Forest. Perfect for romantic picnics and a break from the city. The forest has plenty of paths for walking and cycling in any season. enjoy the scenery around the reservoirs built during the Ottoman era to feed the city's water supply.

Belgrade Forest, Istanbul

Image:Trekearth 

3 - Camlica Hill. Situated in Uskudar on the Asian side of Istanbul, the hill is 268 metres above sea level with sweet smelling pines and magnificent views of the Bosphorus. A favourite winter spot, there are Ottoman style tea-rooms at the top where you can sit cozily and sip hot Sahlep. In the summer, you can enjoy sitting amongst the rose bushes.

Camlica Hill, Uskudar

Image: Points of Turkey

4 - Aya Nikolat, Buyukada. One of the Princess Islands, even travelling to the island itself is romantic. Reached via ferry, vehicles are banned on the island so you can only cycle, walk or use the horse-drawn carriages. The Aya Nikolat Boutique Hotel boasts the most romantic 11 rooms in all Istanbul! Yilmaz Turk Cad, No: 104, Aya Nikola Mevkii, Buyukada, Istanbul Tel: 0.216.382 41 43

Aya Nikolat Boutique Hotel

5 – Ortakoy Square. Located along the Bosphorus in the district of Besiktas, the square is symbolized by the famous Ortakoy Mosque built on the seafront. Stroll around the street craft bazaars, enjoy baked potatoes or sit on a bench and feed the pigeons.

Ortakoy, Besiktas