10 Best Places to Visit in Turkey, it is a country steeped in history and boasting a diverse landscape, has served as a vital link between Europe and Asia for centuries. Its role as a hub of trade and cultural exchange has contributed to its rich and varied heritage. Situated at the crossroads of East and West, Turkey‘s culinary scene is a tantalizing fusion of flavors, reflecting the country’s vast cultural influences. Additionally, Turkey is home to numerous religious monuments and archaeological sites, showcasing the depth of its historical significance.
While Istanbul, the former capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, is a popular destination for travelers, there are many other remarkable places to explore. For a unique experience, you can choose to stay in boutique hotels nestled within caves or take a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the ancient Greco-Roman world by visiting Ephesus, or simply unwind and bask in the sun at the luxurious beach resorts along the Aegean Sea. With so much to offer, Turkey presents a wealth of captivating destinations to discover.
Antalya
Situated on the stunning Mediterranean coastline of the Turkish Riviera, Antalya is a bustling metropolis that warmly embraces tourists with its wide array of resorts, hotels, bars, and restaurants. The city is adorned with breathtaking landscapes, featuring exquisite beaches and verdant mountains adorned with ancient ruins. Whether you seek aquatic adventures, mountain expeditions, cultural exploration, or family entertainment, Antalya caters to every taste and preference.
A leisurely stroll through Kaleiçi, the Old Quarter, transports visitors back in time, offering glimpses of the city’s ancient heritage through its old city walls, Roman gates, labyrinthine streets, and historical structures such as the Clock Tower, enchanting churches, mosques, and temples. At the heart of the Old Quarter lies Cumhuriyet Square, encircled by charming shops, cozy cafes, traditional Turkish baths, and talented street performers.
Antalya’s primary beaches, Konyaalti and Lara, boast pristine white sands, thrilling water sports, luxurious resorts, vibrant bars, and delectable dining options. In close proximity to these beaches, you will find water parks, amusement parks, and even a zoo. Numerous museums in the area showcase fascinating artifacts and relics, with the renowned Antalya Museum being a recipient of prestigious awards.
Marmaris
Marmaris, situated along the Turkish Riviera in southwest Turkey, is a renowned coastal resort that offers a picturesque landscape of pine-covered mountains, pristine white beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and captivating historic architecture. This stunning cruise port is a true haven for tourists, providing an abundance of sightseeing opportunities, thrilling water sports, exceptional dining experiences, and a vibrant nightlife.
Visitors to Marmaris will find themselves spoilt for choice with the myriad of attractions and activities available. Exploring the cobblestone streets of the old quarter reveals charming architecture, while a visit to the 16th century Castle of Suleyman the Magnificent offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history. Boating tours allow visitors to discover the enchanting bays and neighboring villages, showcasing the area’s natural beauty.
For those seeking adventure, horse safaris offer exhilarating rides through lush pine forests, traditional villages, and untouched bays, with stunning waterfalls as a backdrop. Alternatively, jeep safaris provide off-the-beaten-track experiences, immersing travelers in thrilling escapades.
Marmaris caters to the whole family with its water parks and Turkish baths, providing opportunities for both fun-filled activities and ultimate relaxation. Moreover, day trips from Marmaris to exceptional destinations such as Dalyan, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and Cleopatra Island offer unforgettable experiences.
The nightlife in Marmaris is renowned for its excitement, making it one of Turkey’s most vibrant scenes. The city boasts a wide array of restaurants, ranging from fast food to fine dining, offering cuisines from around the world. Bars and clubs are scattered throughout the city and along the beaches, ensuring a lively atmosphere. Additionally, the Turkish Night Show venues are a must-visit, where traditional Turkish food, mezes, and mesmerizing belly dancing performances can be enjoyed.
Side
An ancient port in Pamphylia that was conquered by Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC, has transformed into a captivating town with a blend of historical ruins and modern resorts. Situated on a small peninsula along Turkey’s Mediterranean Coast in the Antalya Province, Side is renowned for its remarkable archaeological sites, vibrant nightlife, and thrilling outdoor activities.
The main highlight of Side is its well-preserved Hellenistic and Roman ruins, which encompass a colossal amphitheater, an agora, a Byzantine basilica, public baths, marble columns, and numerous temples. The Roman baths have been meticulously restored and now house a museum that showcases a collection of Roman statues and artifacts. The Temple of Apollo, overlooking the beach, is particularly breathtaking, especially during sunset.
With its charming narrow streets and beautiful gardens, Side offers a plethora of dining options, ranging from casual delis and pizza shops to upscale restaurants serving a variety of cuisines. Just outside the town, the Manavgat River provides opportunities for boat tours, white water rafting, and the chance to witness impressive waterfalls.
Bodrum
Situated in the southern Aegean region of Turkey, specifically in the Mugla Province, Bodrum is renowned for being the location of the ancient fortified city, Halicarnassus. This city was once adorned with magnificent marble structures, temples, statues, paved streets, and the Mausoleum, which was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
After falling into disrepair, Bodrum transformed into a tranquil fishing village until the 20th century, when Turkish intellectuals brought attention to its charm through their writings. Presently, Bodrum’s captivating ruins, breathtaking beaches, and cliff-top resorts attract visitors from around the globe.
On the eastern side of Bodrum, tourists can discover a stunning beach that overlooks crystal-clear blue waters. In close proximity to the beach, there are numerous cafes, bars, and nightclubs. On the western side of the town, one can find the marina, shopping centers, and restaurants.
A visit to Bodrum would not be complete without exploring the Castle of St. Peter, also known as Bodrum Castle. Constructed by the Knights Hospitaller in 1402, it now serves as a museum. Other notable attractions include the remnants of the Mausoleum, an ancient amphitheater, and the Myndos Gate, which witnessed a fierce battle during a siege led by Alexander the Great.
In addition to sightseeing, there are various other activities to enjoy in Bodrum. These include visiting the acclaimed Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, housed within Bodrum Castle, exploring historic windmills, indulging in Turkish saunas and mud baths, engaging in windsurfing and scuba diving, and embarking on boat tours that offer nightclubs and glass-bottomed dance floors.
Ephesus
Ephesus, situated in Aegean Turkey, stands as the most comprehensive classical metropolis in Europe. During the 1st century BC, it emerged as one of the largest cities within the Roman Empire, boasting the renowned Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The ruins of Ephesus remain remarkably well-preserved, encompassing a vast archaeological site that has become a highly sought-after tourist destination in Turkey.
Although Ephesus was officially recognized as a Roman settlement in 133 BC, it reached its pinnacle approximately two centuries later. At its height, when Ephesus served as the capital of Roman Asia Minor, the city accommodated over 250,000 permanent residents. Notably, St. Paul resided in Ephesus, playing a significant role in the propagation of Christianity alongside various other religions. However, with the decline of Ephesus’ harbor and the devastating sack of the city by Germanic Goths in the third century, Ephesus commenced its gradual decline.
Ephesus, a remarkable classical city, remained forgotten for nearly 1,500 years until the 1860s when a team of international archaeologists began uncovering its ruins. Despite only excavating less than 20 percent of Ephesus, it remains one of the world’s largest accessible archaeological sites.
Undoubtedly, the Temple of Artemis stands as Ephesus’ most renowned structure. Once the largest temple on Earth, it exemplified the city’s significance. Although the temple suffered significant destruction in the fifth century, visitors can still explore its ruins.
Among the recently excavated attractions in Ephesus, the Terraced Houses stand out as both popular and fascinating. These homes belonged to the wealthiest residents of Ephesus during the first century and were constructed in a contemporary Roman style.
Remarkably, some of these houses boasted amenities such as hot and cold baths, marble floors, and even heating systems. The walls adorned unusual artwork, mosaics, and even handwritten love poems.
A visit to Ephesus would not be complete without witnessing the renowned Library of Celsus. Erected in 123 AD, this library ranked as the third-largest in the ancient world, following the libraries of Alexandria and Pergamum. The library has undergone restoration, allowing visitors to appreciate its two-story design, columns, and capitals.
Don’t forget to admire the replica statues representing the four virtues. Although not the original statues, they depict Sophia (wisdom), Episteme (knowledge), Ennoia (thought), and Arete (goodness).
Selçuk, a town located merely two miles away from Ephesus, serves as a preferred destination for numerous visitors who wish to extend their exploration before or after visiting the ruins of Ephesus. Within the heart of Selçuk, one may consider taking a moment to appreciate the Roman aqueduct, which formerly provided water to the city. Alternatively, delving into the archaeological wonders of the region can be achieved by exploring the exhibits at the Museum of Ephesus. Additionally, one can peruse the local market or acquire double knot carpets, the highly sought-after souvenir from this vicinity.
Cappadocia
Cappadocia, situated in Central Anatolia of Turkey, is renowned for its enchanting landscape characterized by unique formations resembling chimneys, cones, mushrooms, and pinnacles. These extraordinary shapes have been shaped over time by natural processes like ancient volcanic eruptions and erosion, with some reaching impressive heights of up to 130 feet (40 meters). However, what truly sets Cappadocia apart is the remarkable human touch that has been added to this landscape. Centuries ago, mankind skillfully carved out houses, churches, and even underground cities from the soft rock, creating a truly awe-inspiring sight.
The history of human habitation in Cappadocia dates back to as early as 1800 BC when the Hittites and other inhabitants sought refuge in the underground tunnel complexes to protect themselves from invading Persians and Greeks. Centuries later, in the 4th century AD, Christians escaping religious persecution in Rome found solace in the tunnels and caves of Cappadocia. Today, the region’s natural wonders and historical sites attract countless visitors, making it a popular destination.
While the majority of Cappadocia is located in the province of Nevsehir, there are several key towns in the region that are worth exploring. These include Ürgüp, Göreme, Avanos, Ortahisar, and Mustafapasa. Each of these towns offers a range of amenities such as hotels, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife options. Additionally, they boast attractions like museums, rock castles, fairy chimneys, underground tunnels, ancient Greek villages, monasteries, and handicraft markets. It is worth noting that some of the caves in the area have been transformed into unique hotels, providing tourists with a truly unforgettable experience.
Istanbul[SEE MAP]
Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey and one of the largest in the world, has a rich history as the former capital of the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires. Situated on both sides of the Bosphorus, a narrow strait connecting Asia and Europe, Istanbul stands as the only city in the world that spans two continents. Its impressive architecture, historic sites, vibrant dining scene, diverse shopping options, lively nightlife, and exotic atmosphere have made it a top destination for tourists worldwide.
The Old City is home to many of Istanbul’s remarkable historic sites, including the iconic Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. The New City, on the other hand, is known for its modern attractions, towering skyscrapers, and bustling shopping malls. Beyoglu and Galata are popular districts for those seeking vibrant nightlife and entertainment, while the Bosphorus area boasts stunning palaces, waterfront mansions, and urban parks.
Istanbul offers a plethora of exciting activities and attractions for visitors. The Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, is a must-visit for a unique shopping experience. Immersing oneself in the local culture can be done by indulging in a traditional Turkish bath. The city’s nightlife scene is vibrant, with a wide range of restaurants, pubs, and nightclubs catering to various budgets and preferences.
Ankara
Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, is a vast and contemporary metropolis that is home to government institutions, commercial enterprises, universities, and foreign embassies. Situated in the heart of the country and the Anatolia region, Ankara serves as a crucial transportation hub, connecting both locals and tourists to various prominent destinations within Turkey. Nevertheless, Ankara is not solely focused on business affairs. This bustling city also offers a handful of historical sites and a vibrant arts and culture scene.
Having been inhabited by diverse civilizations including the Hittite, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman, Ankara is adorned with ancient structures and remnants that bear witness to its rich history. Among the most remarkable are the Temple of Augustus, the Citadel, and a Roman Theatre. Additionally, the city is dotted with numerous historic mosques. Anitkabir, a significant landmark from the 20th century, stands as a mausoleum housing the tomb of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Turkey’s first President.
Ankara takes pride in its thriving arts and culture scene, boasting a plethora of theaters and museums. Notably, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations stands out, as it showcases over 200,000 artifacts. Traditional markets and modern shopping malls cater to diverse shopping preferences, offering a wide array of products ranging from fresh produce, spices, and carpets to electronics.
Mardin
Situated atop a strategic hill, providing a commanding view of the Mesopotamian plains in southeastern Turkey, lies Mardin, the esteemed capital of the Mardin Province. Renowned for its rich cultural tapestry and the captivating Old City adorned with sandstone structures that gracefully descend the hillside, Mardin stands as one of the oldest settlements in the region.
Exploring Mardin’s Old City is a delightful experience that can be easily accomplished on foot. The labyrinthine streets guide visitors through terraced houses and lead them to notable attractions such as the Deyrü’z-Zafaran Monastery, an ancient monastery that holds the distinction of being one of the oldest in the world. Another prominent landmark is the Sultan Isa Medresesi, a medieval monument that once served as an astronomical observatory. Additionally, the Zinciriye Medresesi, a 14th-century Islamic school, boasts exquisite courtyards and captivating artworks.
The Great Mosque, with its majestic minaret, stands as an unmistakable landmark in Mardin. While it is not accessible to the public, the citadel offers breathtaking opportunities for photography. Throughout the Old City, a plethora of shops entice visitors with their offerings of pottery, silverware, leather goods, and traditional headdresses, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of this remarkable destination.
Konya is one of the 10 Best Places to Visit in Turkey
Konya, located in Turkey’s Central Anatolia Region, is renowned for its ancient history and remarkable Seljuk architecture. As one of the oldest cities in the world, Konya flourished during the 12th and 13th centuries as the capital city of the Seljuk Dynasty. Today, visitors can still marvel at the captivating structures from that era, such as the Alaeddin Mosque, which houses the tombs of several sultans, and the Ince Minare Medrese, now transformed into a museum showcasing artifacts from the Seljuk and Ottoman periods.
While the Seljuk Palace may be in ruins, it remains a fascinating site to explore. For those seeking modern architectural marvels, the Seljuk Tower stands tall as one of Turkey’s tallest skyscrapers, boasting a revolving restaurant on its top two floors.
Konya holds great significance as the former home of Rumi, a Persian theologian and Sufi mystic from the 13th century. The Mausoleum of Rumi, along with the adjacent Melvana Museum, is a must-visit destination in Konya. Rumi’s followers, known as the Mevlevi Order or Whirling Dervishes, engage in mesmerizing religious ceremonies where they spin around on their left foot while donning flowing white gowns. These captivating rituals, called Sama, can be witnessed weekly at the Mevlana Cultural Centre.
In addition to its historical and cultural attractions, Konya offers picturesque green spaces and parks. Alaeddin Hill, situated in the city center, provides a tranquil retreat, while the Japanese Park enchants visitors with its charming pagodas, waterfalls, and ponds.
Due to its conservative nature, Konya may not have an abundance of bars and nightclubs. However, some hotels and cafes do serve alcoholic beverages, ensuring visitors can still enjoy a drink during their stay.
