THE TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN TURKEY

Turkey, a transcontinental country straddling Europe and Asia, is a captivating mosaic of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Boasting a rich heritage that spans millennia, it encompasses iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia and the ancient city of Ephesus, testament to its significance in both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. From the bustling markets and aromatic spices of Istanbul to the otherworldly terrains of Cappadocia with its surreal fairy chimneys, Turkey's diversity is striking. With a blend of ancient traditions, mouthwatering cuisine encompassing kebabs, baklava, and Turkish delight, along with warm hospitality that resonates through its people, Turkey continues to enchant visitors with its blend of the old and the new, making it an alluring destination for travelers worldwide.

Istanbul

Istanbul, the vibrant and dynamic metropolis straddling two continents, holds within its bounds an illustrious history that dates back millennia. Formerly known as Byzantium and later Constantinople, the city served as the capital of the Byzantine Empire before becoming the center of the Ottoman Empire. This storied past is etched into its architecture, culture, and streets, creating an unparalleled allure for visitors. The Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel built in the 6th century, stands as a testament to Istanbul's rich heritage. Initially an Orthodox cathedral, it was converted into a mosque during the Ottoman era and eventually transformed into a museum. Its awe-inspiring dome, intricate mosaics, and the synthesis of Christian and Islamic elements within its structure make it a symbolic representation of the city's historical and religious significance.
Adjacent to the Hagia Sophia lies the majestic Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Adorned with striking blue tiles that adorn its interior walls, the mosque is a splendid example of Ottoman architecture. Its cascading domes, towering minarets, and spacious courtyard captivate visitors with their grandeur and spiritual ambiance. Close by lies the Basilica Cistern, an underground wonder dating back to the Byzantine era. This subterranean reservoir, supported by hundreds of columns, creates an eerie yet enchanting atmosphere, with dim lighting reflecting off the water, enhancing its mystical allure. Moreover, Istanbul's iconic Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets globally, serves as a bustling hub where one can immerse themselves in a maze of vibrant stalls selling a myriad of goods—from colorful textiles and intricate carpets to spices, jewelry, and traditional crafts. This labyrinthine marketplace showcases Turkey's rich artisanal heritage while offering a sensory delight for visitors exploring its narrow alleys and bustling corridors.

Pamukkale

Pamukkale, a mesmerizing natural wonder in southwestern Turkey, is renowned for its surreal landscape of terraced, calcium-rich pools cascading down the hillside, creating a stunning spectacle that resembles cotton candy, thus earning its name "Pamukkale," meaning "cotton castle" in Turkish. To reach this ethereal destination, one can opt for various transportation options. The nearest major town to Pamukkale is Denizli, which has its own airport and serves as a transportation hub. Visitors are greeted by Pamukkale's striking white travertine terraces, inviting them to soak in the mineral-rich waters and explore the adjacent ancient city of Hierapolis, creating an unforgettable experience amidst this unique natural marvel.

Ephesus

Ephesus, an ancient city in present-day Turkey, stands as a captivating testament to millennia of history, culture, and architectural marvels. Once a flourishing metropolis in the Roman Empire, Ephesus was a hub of trade, culture, and spirituality. The city's iconic landmarks, such as the Library of Celsus, the Grand Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis, speak volumes about its grandeur and significance. The Library of Celsus, with its impressive façade and ancient scrolls, remains an enduring symbol of knowledge and scholarly pursuits. The well-preserved Grand Theatre, capable of seating thousands, echoes the city's cultural richness, having hosted performances and events that defined the social fabric of the time.

Gallipoli

Lone Pine Memorial in Gallipoli. Gallipoli was the location of the failed Allied offensive on Turkey in 1915. trappy76/shutterstock

Gallipoli, a hallowed ground in Turkey, holds significant historical importance due to the fierce battles fought during World War I. Gallipoli's serene yet somber atmosphere, encompassing sites like Anzac Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery, and Chunuk Bair, serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers from different nations, making it a revered pilgrimage destination and a place of historical reflection. To reach this poignant and revered site, travelers often embark on a journey from Istanbul, which is approximately a four to five-hour drive away.

Olympos

Olympos Beach on the Lycian Coast. Olympos was the site of an ancient Roman city of the same name. Nearby can also be found the flames of the Chimaera, constantly burning fires fueled by natural gas seeping from the ground. @cam/shutterstock

Olympos, nestled along the scenic Mediterranean coast, is an enchanting blend of ancient ruins, pristine beaches, and natural wonders. The site boasts a rich history dating back to Lycian and Roman times, featuring the remains of ancient structures such as temples, baths, and theaters, interwoven with lush greenery. One of its most fascinating natural marvels is the Flames of Chimaera, a mysterious phenomenon where natural gas seeping from the earth ignites upon contact with the oxygen in the air, creating eternal flames that flicker from the hillside. Visitors often embark on a trek through the serene surroundings of Mount Olympos to witness this surreal sight, a mystical occurrence that has intrigued travelers and locals for centuries, adding a touch of mysticism to the allure of this ancient coastal region. Accessible via Antalya or Kas,

The Lycian Way

The Lycian Way, a long distance footpath following the coast of ancient Lycia. The trail is approximately 510 km long. svetlana-tikhonova/shutterstock

The Lycian Way, a breathtaking long-distance hiking trail in Turkey, spans approximately 540 kilometers (335 miles) along the stunning Mediterranean coastline. Starting in the town of Fethiye, a popular resort destination, this ancient path winds its way through rugged cliffs, pine forests, charming villages, and historical sites, culminating in the town of Antalya. Renowned for its panoramic vistas and archaeological treasures, the trail takes hikers on a journey through Lycian heritage, passing by remarkable landmarks like the ruins of Patara, ancient rock tombs in Myra, and the scenic beauty of Butterfly Valley. Depending on the pace and route chosen, completing the Lycian Way typically takes around 25 to 30 days, though some enthusiasts might opt for shorter sections to experience specific highlights along this awe-inspiring trail.

Patara

Patara Beach, one of the longest and most beautiful beaches of Turkey. It is situated close to the ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Patara. leonux/shutterstock

Patara, an ancient Lycian city nestled along Turkey's Mediterranean coast, boasts a rich historical tapestry and natural beauty. Renowned for its archaeological significance and picturesque landscapes, Patara was once a thriving harbor city and holds the distinction of being the birthplace of St. Nicholas, known as Santa Claus. Visitors are drawn to its expansive sandy beach, one of the longest in the Mediterranean, flanked by pristine dunes and crystal-clear waters. The archaeological site of Patara reveals well-preserved ruins, including a magnificent amphitheater, a triumphal arch, the Lycian Assembly Hall, and the remains of an ancient harbor. Furthermore, the nearby Patara Beach, a nesting ground for endangered loggerhead turtles, offers a serene escape amid its natural splendor.

Cappadocia

Cappadocia, a mesmerizing region in central Turkey, captivates visitors with its otherworldly landscapes, unique geological formations, and rich cultural heritage. Renowned for its distinctive "fairy chimney" rock formations, sculpted by centuries of volcanic eruptions and erosion, Cappadocia presents a surreal and enchanting vista. The region is famed for its underground cities carved into soft volcanic rock, ancient cave churches adorned with remarkable frescoes, and expansive underground tunnels. Hot air balloon rides offer a breathtaking aerial view of the lunar-like terrain dotted with fairy chimneys and ancient cave dwellings. Additionally, the towns of Göreme and Uçhisar serve as gateways to this mystical realm, allowing visitors to delve into its history, explore hidden gems like the Derinkuyu Underground City, and immerse themselves in the warm hospitality and cultural richness that define Cappadocia as a must-visit destination in Turkey.

Mount Nemrut

Remains of statues on Mount Nemrut. Once standing 9 meters tall the statues used to be part of an enormous tomb sanctuary. morhan-cam/shutterstock

Mount Nemrut, located in southeastern Turkey, stands as an extraordinary testament to ancient civilizations and monumental sculptures. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famed for its colossal statues and stone heads that once adorned the tomb-sanctuary built by King Antiochus I of the Commagene Kingdom around the 1st century BC. The site's main attraction is the terraces adorned with massive stone sculptures depicting gods, eagles, and lions, framing the colossal seated statues, believed to represent King Antiochus himself alongside ancient deities. The sunrise and sunset views from Mount Nemrut are particularly revered, offering visitors a stunning panorama of the monumental heads amidst the mountainous landscape, creating an awe-inspiring and culturally significant experience that reflects the grandeur of an ancient era.

Aspendos Theatre

Amphitheatre in Aspendos, an ancient Greek city founded around 1000 BC. darja-vorontsova/shutterstock

The ancient city of Aspendos in southern Turkey is home to one of the most remarkably preserved ancient theaters in the world, known as the Aspendos Theatre. Constructed in the 2nd century AD during the Roman Empire, this awe-inspiring amphitheater stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of its time, renowned for its exceptional acoustics and grandeur. With a seating capacity of around 15,000 spectators, the theater showcases intricate details in its design, including the stage building, ornate decorations, and well-preserved seating tiers. Despite its age, the theater continues to host performances, including concerts and cultural events, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the historical ambiance and marvel at the architectural mastery of this ancient structure while enjoying its enduring legacy as a cultural venue.

Pergamon

Once a flourishing center of culture, learning, and power during the Hellenistic period, the ancient city of Pergamon boasted remarkable architectural marvels and intellectual achievements. The city's renowned Library of Pergamon rivaled that of Alexandria, housing countless scrolls and contributing to the city's reputation as a beacon of knowledge. The remnants of the Acropolis, including the impressive Altar of Zeus and the Theatre of Pergamon, showcase the city's architectural prowess and historical grandeur. Home to healing temples and the famous Asclepion medical center, where prominent physicians such as Galen once practiced, Pergamon was celebrated for its advancements in medicine and holistic healing.

Sumela Monastery, Trabzon

Sumela Monastery, a Greek Orthodox monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary. homeros/shutterstock

The Sumela Monastery, perched dramatically on the steep cliffs of the Pontic Mountains in northeastern Turkey, presents a breathtaking sight that seamlessly merges nature and history. Dating back to the 4th century, this ancient Greek Orthodox monastery is a marvel of architectural ingenuity and spiritual significance. Nestled amidst lush forests and overlooking a picturesque valley, Sumela Monastery served as a place of worship, meditation, and scholarly pursuits for monks. The monastery features intricate frescoes, chapels, a rock church, and a library, all carved into the sheer rock face, showcasing remarkable craftsmanship and religious devotion.

Other lists

Saudi Arabia

Iran

Syria

Yemen

Israel

Lebanon

The UAE

Jordan

Oman

Namibia

France