When it comes to destination weddings, Turkey offers a treasure trove of scenic and romantic locations to tie the knot. From fairy tale Cappadocia to cosmopolitan Istanbul, couples are spoiled for choice for an unforgettable Turkish wedding. Hiring a talented wedding photographer is a must to capture the magic of your special day in these stunning settings.
1. Cappadocia
The whimsical moon-like landscape of Cappadocia makes it one of Turkey’s most sought-after wedding destinations. Get married surrounded by the region’s iconic “fairy chimneys” – tall, cone-shaped rock formations formed over millions of years of volcanic eruptions and erosion. The unique cave architecture carved into the rocky terrain also provides intimate venues for unforgettable ceremonies.
Luxury cave hotels like Argos in Cappadocia and Museum Hotel offer spectacular underground chapels and suites perfect for exchanging vows. Hold your reception in the dimly-lit stone halls of an ancient monastery-turned-hotel, like Esbelli Evi in Urgüp, for an aura of romance and wonder. And no Cappadocia wedding is complete without a hot air balloon ride overlooking the epic Martian vistas at sunrise or sunset – be sure to hire a professional aerial wedding photographer to capture incredible views.
2. Istanbul
For timeless Turkish grandeur, host your nuptials in Istanbul, Turkey’s historical gem on the Bosphorus Strait. The towering minarets and opulent courtyards of Ottoman-era landmarks like Topkapi Palace provide postcard-perfect backdrops that exude old world magic and allure.
Book the oriental glamour of Çırağan Palace’s marble halls, one of Istanbul’s premier waterside wedding venues. Exchange vows on an outdoor terrace at sunset, with sweeping views of both Asia and Europe behind you. Then board a private yacht for an iconic cruise past the dazzling Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, as your Istanbul wedding photographer snaps priceless portraits. Finish the night dancing under the stars at an open-air Bosporus club.
3. Antalya
Situated along Turkey’s Mediterranean “Turquoise Coast,” the resort town of Antalya entices couples seeking idyllic beach weddings with its captivating blend of sun, sand, sea, and ancient ruins. Tie the knot oceanside on the sweeping lawn of The Marmara Hotel, framed by vibrant purple bougainvillea and the sparkling serenity of the blue Mediterranean. Then whisk your guests to your seaside reception at Castle in the Air, toasting as the sunset paints a fiery orange glow behind the old-world turrets of Antalya’s harbor. An artistic Antalya wedding photographer can create stunning artistic scenes anywhere along the striking coastline or among the pillars and archways crumbling Greek and Roman ruins that abound in the region.
4. Şirince Village
Hidden among the olive groves in the hills above ancient Ephesus along Turkey’s Aegean Coast lies Şirince – an idyllic rural village exuding pastoral charm and romance. Steeped in rich viniculture traditions, Şirince’s historic stone houses have been converted into some of Turkey’s most enchanting boutique hotels. Nestled amid fragrant fruit orchards, Kaya Evi offers private villas with secret walled gardens perfect for intimate vineyard wedding ceremonies. Let your bohemian spirit run wild with a folksy chic textile-filled reception at Güllü Konak, known for their homemade wines and sumptuous regional cuisine. An artistic wedding photographer can harness Şirince’s rustic-chic ambience to craft wedding portraits with nostalgic old-world appeal among the vines and Victorian cottages.
5. Bodrum
Fun-loving couples who dream of a wedding infused with nautical cool against the glittering blue Aegean Sea flock to Bodrum – Turkey’s premier luxury beach resort town synonymous with sailing, clubbing and jet-set glamour. Make a dramatic entrance by parachute to your cliffside oceanview reception venue, like the opulent Mandarin Oriental. A daring Bodrum wedding photographer can even capture your epic views as you free-fall together in matching jumpsuits. If a luxe sailing excursion is more your style, exchange vows barefoot on the sun-drenched bow of a private gullet yacht. Then dance into the night moored offshore, under the glow of floating lanterns and stars at the glamorous Sortie Club. Any way you choose, Bodrum brings Turkish seaside chic to your destination wedding celebrations.