Istanbul is a city that pulsates with history, culture and beauty on every corner. And it was with this charming spirit that after the Table Design Exhibition event , I participated in an exclusive FAMTRIP around the city, exploring some of the most luxurious hotels and historical locations perfect for destination weddings. It was two intense days, full of discoveries and inspiration, which I now share with you in another episode of “Where to Get Married Around the World”.
Day 1 – Istanbul’s great hospitality icons
Our first day was dedicated to technical visits to the city’s most prestigious hotels—truly dreamlike settings for those who want to get married on the bridge between East and West. Our first stop was the stunning Mandarin Oriental , with its impeccable gardens and direct views of the Bosphorus. The contemporary design with Ottoman touches creates a sophisticated and welcoming environment, ideal for luxurious and intimate weddings. Afterwards, we headed to one of the most iconic hotels. The Çırağan Palace Kempinski is simply an Ottoman dream. Housed in a former 19th-century palace, the hotel combines historic elegance with top-notch service. It’s impossible not to imagine yourself walking down those majestic staircases as a bride.
With a privileged location, the Feriye Restaurant gave us an unforgettable view of the Bosphorus and incredible Turkish cuisine. It is ideal for receptions, rehearsals or welcome dinners with a local spirit. One of my favorite hotels, the Four Seasons at the Bosphorus combines neoclassical Ottoman architecture with the excellent service that the chain has accustomed us to. Its riverside gardens and private pier are cinematic settings for outdoor ceremonies. Next, we visited the Shangri-La , an elegant hotel with a more contemporary style, but which maintains sophistication in every detail. The ballrooms are versatile and ready to adapt to different wedding styles. We ended the tour with a flourish at the recently opened The Peninsula Istanbul , which exudes modernity and exclusivity. Its central location and rooftop with panoramic views make it one of the new bets for high-end events in the city. We ended the day with a delicious dinner at Marcello restaurant , inside The Stay hotel . With a cozy atmosphere and authentic Italian cuisine, it was the ideal time to relax, toast and share the first impressions of this unforgettable journey.
Day 2 – Culture, colors and history in Istanbul
On the second day, we left the hotels behind to fully immerse ourselves in the vibrant soul of Istanbul. It was a day to experience and explore places that could perfectly be part of a pre- or post-wedding program. We started the morning in one of the most authentic corners of the city: the Fener-Balat neighborhood. A true cultural mosaic, with colorful houses, children playing in the streets and an atmosphere that mixes faith, art and history. A charming place for photo shoots and romantic walks. We had lunch at a very special place: Zeyrek Çinili Hammam , an old Turkish bath that has been restored and is now open for private events. The historic atmosphere, combined with a contemporary menu, makes this space a unique and surprising alternative for intimate events.
In the afternoon, we visited Topkapı Palace , the former residence of the Ottoman sultans. The palace is a immersion into the grandeur of Turkish history, with stunning views, inner courtyards and precious relics. For history buffs, this is a must-see on your destination wedding itinerary. We ended our cultural tour with a visit to the Blue Mosque , one of Istanbul’s most iconic buildings. Its imposing dome, colorful stained glass windows and famous blue Iznik tiles create an atmosphere of peace and indescribable beauty. A place to contemplate, give thanks and be inspired. Our last dinner was at the elegant Four Seasons at Sultanahmet , housed in a historic building in the heart of the Old City. A romantic setting, surrounded by history and beauty — perfect for a celebratory evening or even an intimate wedding with an imperial touch.
So, what did you think? Awesome, right?
We are waiting for you to plan your destination wedding in Istanbul.
Until next time,
Simone
