Valentine's Day, or Sevgililer Günü, is widely celebrated in Istanbul. Restaurants fill up, flower sellers line the streets and couples head for places with a view of the water. February is also a quieter month for travellers, with cool weather and early sunsets, which means the city lights come on in time for dinner. Here is how to make the most of it.
Istanbul in February
February is one of the coolest months of the year. Expect chilly, often damp days, a cold wind on the water and the occasional snow shower. The sun sets at around 18:30 to 18:40 in mid-February, so most evening plans take place after dark, with the palaces, mosques and bridges illuminated. Pack a warm coat, a scarf and comfortable shoes.
Valentine's Day ideas in Istanbul
A candlelit dinner on the Bosphorus
The most romantic table in the city is on the water. On a private Valentine's Day yacht, dinner is served by candlelight in a warm saloon with large windows, the table is dressed with roses, and the Bosphorus Bridge changes colour above you. Step out on deck for photos by the Maiden's Tower, then come back in for dessert. We recommend three to four hours.
Sunset from a hilltop
If the day is clear, watch the sunset from Pierre Loti Hill or Çamlıca Hill with a glass of tea, then head down for dinner.
A walk through the old city
Winter is the quietest season in Sultanahmet. Visit Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern with fewer crowds, and finish with Turkish coffee and baklava.
A hammam and spa afternoon
A warm hammam is the perfect escape on a cold February day. Some spas offer couples' packages; book ahead for 14 February.
A gift from the bazaars
The Grand Bazaar is full of ideas: a hand-painted ceramic, a silver piece, a silk scarf or a lamp for your home.
Proposing on Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day is one of the most popular days of the year for proposals. If you plan to ask, tell us when you book: we can add a laser message on the Bosphorus Bridge, flowers, a cake and a photographer. Read our guide to proposing in Istanbul for ideas.
When to book
- Book restaurants and yachts for 14 February several weeks ahead; it is one of the busiest evenings of the winter.
- If the 14th is a weekday, the weekend before or after is just as beautiful and often easier.
- Tell us about any surprise, flowers or music from the start, so the evening is built around it.
What to wear
Dress up for dinner, but think about the deck: a warm coat for photos outside, flat or low shoes for a moving yacht, and something to keep long hair in place at the bow.
Frequently asked questions
Is Valentine's Day celebrated in Istanbul?
Yes. Valentine's Day, Sevgililer Günü, is widely celebrated, and restaurants with a view are booked well in advance.
What is the weather like in Istanbul in February?
Cool and often damp, with a cold wind on the water and occasional snow. Sunset is around 18:30 to 18:40 in mid-February.
Is a Valentine's cruise warm enough in February?
Yes. Dinner is served in the yacht's closed saloon with large windows; you step out on deck only for photos.
Can I propose on a Valentine's Day cruise?
Yes. Tell us in advance and we can add a laser message on the Bosphorus Bridge, flowers, a cake and a photographer.
How early should I book for 14 February?
Several weeks ahead. It is one of the most requested evenings of the winter.
A Valentine's dinner on your own yacht
Candles and roses on the table, a violinist if you wish, and the Bosphorus lit up outside the windows of a warm saloon.
More guides
- How to propose in Istanbul: the best places and a step-by-step planPlaces, timing, photos and a planning checklist.
- Romantic things to do in Istanbul: a guide for couplesSunsets, views, old streets and dinners for two.
- Is a Bosphorus cruise worth it in winter? An honest guideIs a Bosphorus cruise worth it in winter?
- Christmas and December in Istanbul: what to doChristmas and December in Istanbul