So, you’re dreaming of a destination wedding in Turkey? Imagine standing under a golden sunset in Cappadocia, hot air balloons floating in the sky as you exchange vows. Or maybe you prefer a luxurious Bosphorus-side wedding in Istanbul, where the city’s history meets elegance. And, of course, there’s Bodrum and Antalya, where the Aegean waves become the soundtrack to your love story.
Sounds like a dream, right? But let’s get down to business—how much does it actually cost? And is it possible to have this fairytale without selling your soul (or your car)? Let’s break it down.
1. The Big Question: How Much Does a Destination Wedding in Turkey Cost?
Here’s a quick breakdown based on different wedding styles:
| Wedding Type |
Estimated Cost |
| Small, intimate wedding (20–50 guests) |
$10,000–$25,000 |
| Mid-size wedding (50–100 guests) |
$25,000–$50,000 |
| Luxury wedding (100+ guests) |
$50,000–$150,000+ |
Of course, it all depends on where you get married, how fancy you go, and how many people you invite. Now, let’s break it down detail by detail.
2. Wedding Venues: From Fairy Tales to Luxury Resorts
Istanbul: The Glamorous City Wedding
If you’re dreaming of a palace wedding with Bosphorus views and a royal vibe, Istanbul is your spot.
💰 Average venue cost: $5,000–$25,000+
🏰 Top venues:
✨ Budget tip: Some venues offer weekday discounts or lower rates during the off-season (November to March).
Cappadocia: Hot Air Balloons & Mystical Vibes
Ever imagined saying “I do” inside an ancient cave hotel or on a terrace overlooking surreal valleys?
💰 Average venue cost: $3,000–$15,000
🏰 Top venues:
✨ Bonus: You can even get married in a hot air balloon for around $2,000!
Bodrum & Antalya: Beachfront Bliss
If your dream wedding includes sand, sea, and a sunset ceremony, Bodrum and Antalya have some of Turkey’s most beautiful beaches.
💰 Average venue cost: $10,000–$50,000
🏰 Top venues:
✨ Pro tip: All-inclusive resorts offer wedding packages that cover venue, catering, decorations, and accommodation—a great way to simplify planning.
3. Accommodation: Where Will You & Your Guests Stay?
Depending on your budget and location, here’s what you can expect:
- Luxury Resorts & Boutique Hotels: $200–$1,500 per night
- Mid-Range Hotels: $80–$200 per night
- Airbnb & Budget Stays: $40–$100 per night
Many resorts offer discounts for wedding guests, so check if your venue has a partnership with nearby hotels.
4. Food & Drinks: A Turkish Feast!
You haven’t truly lived until you’ve had a full Turkish wedding feast. From mezze platters and lamb kebabs to baklava towers and Turkish delight, your guests will thank you forever.
💰 Average cost per guest:
- Luxury plated dinner: $100–$300
- Traditional Turkish buffet: $50–$150
- Alcohol package: $30–$80
✨ Money-saving tip: Opt for local wines and raki (Turkey’s signature anise-flavored drink) instead of imported alcohol.
5. Wedding Photography & Videography
You NEED a photographer who understands Turkey’s unique golden light, historic textures, and epic landscapes.
📸 Pricing:
- Top-tier photographers: $3,000–$8,000+
- Mid-range professionals: $1,500–$3,000
- Videography packages: $2,000–$6,000
If you want stunning, cinematic photos that capture your love story perfectly, check out Your Happy Moments—I’ll make sure your wedding looks like a fairytale come to life.
6. Entertainment & Extras: Spice Up Your Celebration!
Want to make your wedding unforgettable? Consider these extras:
- Live band or DJ: $1,500–$5,000
- Belly dancers & fire shows: $1,000–$3,000
- Hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia: $250 per person
- Yacht rental for a pre-wedding party in Bodrum: $3,000+ per day
- Luxury wedding decor & flowers: $3,000–$10,000
7. Legal Fees & Paperwork (Boring but Important!)
To get legally married in Turkey, you’ll need:
📜 Required documents:
- Passports & birth certificates
- Proof of single status
- Translations & notarization
💰 Total cost: $500–$1,000
✨ Tip: Many couples legally marry at home and have a symbolic ceremony in Turkey—easier and stress-free!
Final Thoughts: Is a Destination Wedding in Turkey Worth It?
Short answer? ABSOLUTELY.
Long answer? If you want breathtaking scenery, incredible food, warm hospitality, and a wedding that feels like a dream, Turkey is the perfect destination. And guess what? It’s way more affordable than Italy, France, or Greece!
And of course, if you’re looking for a wedding photographer who will capture your story in the most beautiful, natural, and artistic way, let’s talk!
📸 Check out my wedding photography packages and let’s create magic together.
Still have questions? Drop me a message via my contact page—I’d love to hear about your dream wedding and help you make it happen! 💛
