Getting Married in Istanbul: The Insider's Guide
Planning a destination wedding in Istanbul is thrilling, but choosing the right team from afar can feel overwhelming. Over the years of documenting weddings across this magnificent city, I’ve learned a secret: the absolute best photographs happen when you are entirely relaxed, trusting the professionals around you. As a visual storyteller, light and atmosphere are everything to me. I've created this insider's guide to share my absolute favorite venues that photograph beautifully, along with the incredibly talented planners, stylists, and artists I trust to make your day flawless.
Curated Istanbul Wedding Venues
When you travel across the world for your wedding, the venue needs to be so much more than just a pretty backdrop—it needs to have a soul. Whether you want to feel the weight of centuries of history beneath your feet, breathe in the salty scent of the Bosphorus during your vows, or dive into the electric energy of the city center, here are my favorite locations. I recommend these spaces because they offer an unforgettable, authentic experience where you can truly let go and celebrate.
The European Side
(Classic Luxury & History)
Aslı Tunca Hotel: A hidden gem offering a chic, intimate backdrop. It is incredibly suitable for small, intimate groups—something notoriously hard to find in Istanbul!
Six Senses Kocataş Mansions: Luxurious and stunningly restored, featuring sweeping views and immaculate grounds for beautiful portraits. It also offers tailored spaces for smaller guest lists.
The Marmara Esma Sultan: Iconic and breathtaking. The contrast of the historic brick ruins with the glass interior right on the edge of the Bosphorus is an absolute dream to photograph.
Pera Palace Hotel: Perfect for a moody, nostalgic, and incredibly elegant affair. The historic architecture feels like stepping back in time.
Suzy's Cafe du Levant: Tucked away inside the Rahmi M. Koç Museum on the shores of the Golden Horn, this incredibly charming spot is a hidden gem for intimate celebrations. With its authentic Parisian bistro aesthetic, vintage details, and warm, nostalgic atmosphere, it is an absolute dream for micro-weddings and small dinner receptions.
The Asian Side & Islands
(Bohemian & Nostalgic)
Kuzguncuk Yanık Mektep: My top choice for a bohemian, intimate garden wedding. It feels historic, cozy, and wonderfully relaxed.
Splendid Palace Hotel (Büyükada): If you want a Wes Anderson aesthetic with silver domes and red shutters, this nostalgic island hotel is pure photographic magic.
Çubuklu 29: Luxurious and modern with a spectacular, sweeping view of the water from the Asian shore.
Nature Escapes (Just Outside the City)
Casa Lavanda (Şile): A lush, boutique nature retreat known for its stone architecture and incredible gastronomy.
Grandma's Wonderland (Silivri): A rustic, farm-chic paradise perfect for an outdoor wedding under the stars.
Barbare Bağları (Tekirdağ): A slice of Tuscany just outside the city. Vineyard weddings here offer the most incredible golden hour light.
The Vendors I Love & Trust
The aesthetic of your day is brought to life by the artists behind the scenes. These are the professionals who deliver incredible results and bring a calming energy to your morning.
Boutique Intimacy at Aslı Tunca Hotel
Casey and Fred proved you don't need a huge guest list to throw an unforgettable party. This British couple celebrated with just 14.5 of their closest family members! From a courtyard ceremony filled with laughter to an emotional balcony cocktail hour and dancing to a traditional Turkish music ensemble, it was pure destination magic.
Ready to design a day as beautiful as your love story?
My style is natural, story-driven, and relaxed. If you value an aesthetic, documentary approach to your wedding day, I would love to be your photographer.