Turkey’s main attractions include the colorful metropolis of Istanbul, the strange cliffs of Cappadocia, the historic ruins of Ephesus, and the sparkling Mediterranean and Aegean coasts, but every part of the nation has something different to offer.
Those who have only visited beach resorts and vacation spots will be amazed by the range of landscapes, historical sites and culinary cultures. Although it is easy to visit the entire country, there is much to see and do in a single vacation in Turkey. Before moving on to one of our other recommended destinations in Turkey, spend at least a few days in Istanbul.
Table of Contents
1. Istanbul
Istanbul is one of the best cities in the world and should be on everyone’s itinerary. Best for ancient sites and modern neighborhoods ,Highlights such as the magnificent Topkapı Palace of the Ottoman sultans and the magnificent Byzantine church Aya Sophia, sometimes known in English as Hagia Sophia, bear witness to the city’s long history as the center of powerful empires.
However, take the time to see Istanbul as it is right now. Explore the cafes and bars of the trendy Kadkoy neighborhood, stroll through the back streets of the more traditional Fatih neighborhood, or browse Beyoglu’s modern art collection. Remember the simple pleasure of drinking çay (tea) while admiring the breathtaking views of the city from a ferry.
2. Cappadocia
In the heart of Turkey is a geological wonder called Cappadocia. At the Göreme open-air museum and the numerous cave churches and underground communities that dot the valley, the story of Anatolia’s early Christians comes alive. The cozy restaurants and cave hotels around are great places to find romance. Another highlight is the sunrise balloon ride with a champagne toast. Hikers, mountain bikers and trail runners can all find adventure in the lush valleys and steep cliffs.
3. Turquoise Coast
Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, which stretches from Fethiye to Antalya, undoubtedly has many beautiful places for beach, sun and sea vacations, but it also has traces of prehistoric civilizations that once called the region home. The stone tombs of Myra are particularly noteworthy, as are the seaside ruins at Patara, which has one of Turkey’s best beaches. A useful resource for learning the history of the area is the Antalya Museum. Explore the region by gulet boat, the Lycian Way hiking trail, or drive along the picturesque—but winding—coastal roads.
4. Eastern Black Sea and Kaçkar Mountains
The Black Sea may not look very appealing with its rough, icy waves, but head inland and you’ll find that the area is all the more charming with its verdant valleys that descend from high peaks to the coast. Most of Turkey’s tea and hazelnut production comes from the lower elevations, while higher plateaus (Yelalar) such as Pokut, which were formerly summer cattle pastures, are becoming increasingly popular with travelers looking for picturesque views and a taste for traditional black. Sea culture and cuisine. At higher elevations, experienced trekkers can enjoy breathtaking summertime trekking in the Kakar Mountains.
5. Southeastern Anatolia
One of Turkey’s cultural and gastronomic highlights is the sometimes overlooked southeastern Anatolia region. The cities of Gaziantep and Antakya (Hatay) are not only known for their cuisine, but also have amazing collections of Roman mosaics in their museums. Mardin’s charming, beautifully preserved old town is a fantastic starting point for visiting nearby monasteries and Roman ruins. Göbeklitepe, the world’s oldest sacred site, is not far from \anlıurfa, where there is a first-class archaeological museum and market.
6. Datça and Bozburun peninsulas
On the isolated Datça and Bozburun peninsulas in the South Aegean, relaxing and getting back to nature is the norm. The vibrant nightlife of neighboring Bodrum and Marmaris is replaced by kilometers of breathtaking rocky coastline, picturesque rural villages and sleepy little beach resorts and seaside towns.
7. Turkey’s far east
Turkey’s vast expanse in the Far East has a remote austerity that is unparalleled in the nation. Kars in Turkey, a border town, is best known to tourists as the terminus of the Dogu Ekpressi (Eastern Express), a popular and scenic overnight train trip from Ankara. The city’s impressive architecture dates back to its time as a Russian outpost in the 1800s. Nearby are the vast and striking UNESCO-listed ruins of Ani, the capital of ancient Armenia.
A three-hour drive south will take you to the secluded Işak Paşa Palace, which will pass by the famous Mount Ararat (Ağrı Dağı). Head to Van, where you can refuel with one of the city’s famous breakfasts, before visiting the city’s excellent museum and taking a day trip to Akdamar Kilisesi, home to a small Armenian church and monastery complex. Island in Van Lake.
8. Gallipoli and the North Aegean
In quietly stunning scenery, resting places honoring the thousands of soldiers who lost their lives in the brutal battle on the Gallipoli Peninsula in World War I are dotted across the picturesque rolling hills, adding to the poignancy of the occasion.
The region also serves as a starting point for exploring Turkey’s northern Aegean coast, a more relaxed alternative to the Mediterranean. Here, you can enjoy leisurely excursions to charming seaside towns such as Ayvalık and Foça, the wineries on Bozcaada Island, the ancient city of Troy (complete with an excellent museum) and the hilltop Acropolis of Bergama.
9. Safranbolu
Safranbolu, so named because saffron was cultivated and traded here for centuries, is a popular destination for tourists who want to experience its Ottoman atmosphere. Numerous old timber-framed mansions in the city have been beautifully restored and converted into boutique hotels, cafes and restaurants.
10. Pamukkale
Glistening unexpectedly above the small village like freshly fallen snow, the beautiful white terraces of Pamukkale are probably one of the most photographed places in Turkey. The colossal ruins of the ancient spa town of Hierapolis, spread over a hilltop near the famous Travertine, were inspired by the warm mineral waters that flowed through them.
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10 of the best places to visit in Türkiye (Turkey) – Lonely Planet
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