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15 Best Cities to Visit in Turkey

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Whether it’s stunning beaches and bays that you are after or ancient historical sites and marvelous mosques, Turkey’s cities will never disappoint. Delicious cuisine and a friendly and welcoming population await you, and Turkey’s rich cultural heritage makes for an intoxicating experience that will surely live long in the memory.

From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the quiet, laidback way of life in Urgup; there is something for everyone to enjoy in the country’s majestic cities. With so much to see and do in Turkey , visitors to this incredible country will find it hard to fit everything into their itinerary. To help you on your way, here are the best cities to visit in Turkey.

15. Fethiye

Fethiye

Set on a beautiful natural harbor, Fethiye is stunning, thanks to the pristine turquoise waters and the forest-covered hills that border it. A popular destination, its fine beaches are perfect for lounging on, and you can easily take a Turkish yacht cruise around the bay or head to one of the nearby pretty islands.

While the city was almost destroyed by an earthquake in 1958, it has impressively sprung back to life and many of its ancient sites still remain intact. The stunning Amintas Rock Tombs are definitely worth checking out, as is Kadyanda Ancient City and the ghost town of Kayakoy – both nearby.

Cesme

Lying only eight kilometers from the Geek island of Chios, this seaside resort town has a wonderful waterside promenade, a stunning Genoese castle and a lot more for visitors to enjoy.

While the castle is undoubtedly the main attraction, the modern marina is bustling with life, as are the many shops and restaurants in the wonderfully preserved old town. With lots of nice beaches on offer, Cesme is also a great place from which to explore the surrounding area.

Bursa

The fourth-largest city in Turkey has grown quickly in recent years and was once the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. Now a modern city with a slightly chaotic feel to it, the ugly industrial outskirts of Bursa are in stark contrast with the historic center, which is delightful to wander around.

With some fantastic mosques, mausoleums, and museums to enjoy, Bursa has a lot to offer, and the devout population is very welcoming and friendly. The nearby Mount Uludag has great skiing, while there are lots of brilliant hamams about town if you’re looking for a warmer way to pass the time.

Ankara

While the capital of the country is often overlooked by tourists, Ankara is a fascinating place. With a youthful, upbeat energy, it is well worth stopping by. Now a sophisticated modern city that is home to countless embassies, Ankara has many fine restaurants and trendy cafes for you to visit, although it can appear somewhat like a concrete jungle at times.

A fun and lively place to visit, the spectacular Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is a must-see in the city, as is the humongous Anitkabir mausoleum of Attaturk.

Urfa

Also known as Sanliurfa, as well as ‘the Prophet’s City’, Urfa has a wealth of beautiful old buildings scattered about town and many people come here on pilgrimages or to replenish their spirits. With a very Middle Eastern feel about it, walking around the local bazaar is intoxicating as you try to take in everything that is happening around you.

While urban development projects mean the city is changing rapidly, its ancient past still shines through in the shape of the stunning Dergah Park and Mosque Complex. When stopping by Urfa, a visit to the ancient Gobekli Tepe temple is a must.

10. Trabzon

Trabzon

The busiest port on the Black Sea, Trabzon’s strategic location on the old Silk Road means that it has been fought over and ruled by different people and cultures for millennia. While the city is rapidly modernizing, the medieval mosque of Aya Sofya is the main attraction in town, although there a couple of places worth visiting nearby.

Teeming with life, Trabzon has some great restaurants and cafes, and going to watch the local football team play will certainly be a memorable experience. Head to nearby Uzungol Lake for a nice day-trip, or to the spectacular Sumela Monastery.

Konya

Once home to the famous Persian poet Rumi, Konya is known nowadays for its wealth of beautiful architecture that dates back to when it was the capital of the Rum Sultanate. A conservative city, it is an economic powerhouse in the region and more and more tourists are visiting every year.

Among the main attractions are the Mausoleum of Rumi, which is interesting to visit, and the ancient village of Sille nearby, which offers a fascinating look at the region’s past.

Bodrum

A trendy, cool place to hang out, Bodrum is a fantastic city that has everything you could want in a holiday destination. With lovely beaches and a picturesque look, the city’s Aegean character shines through in its traditional whitewashed houses and the delightful little cafes and cobbled alleys that you can find about town.

While it is a historic place with a stunning castle, ancient ruins and a spectacular amphitheater, Bodrum’s elegant bars, trendy restaurants, and lively nightclubs mean that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Edirne

Once the capital of the Ottoman Empire, Edirne’s grand past is visible all about you, as fantastic old imperial buildings, palaces and mosques are scattered about here and there. The Selimiye Mosque, for instance, is a must-see in this delightful city, and the Old Quarter is lovely to wander around.

Due to its strategic location and its proximity to Greece and Bulgaria, Edirne has a European feel about it and there is lots of delicious cuisine on offer. A great time to visit is in summer, when the prestigious and traditional oil-wrestling festival of Kirkpinar takes place.

6. Kusadasi

Kusadasi

A lively and fun city to visit, Kusadasi is a popular holiday destination thanks to the plethora of package-tour companies that operate here. Lying on the coast, there are a multitude of hotels, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs for visitors to enjoy, with the party scene being particularly memorable.

Away from the lovely beaches and stunning views of the sea, Kusadasi’s proximity to some wonderful historical and natural sights makes it well worth stopping by. The archaeological site at Ephesus is mesmerizing to visit, while the Dilek Peninsula National Park is great if you are looking to immerse yourself in nature.

Izmir

Lying on the shores of the delightful Bay of Izmir, the third-largest city in Turkey is home to a huge port and is a youthful place, teeming with life and energy. With a lovely waterfront promenade that is full of great restaurants, bars, and cafes, it is a fun city to visit; its multicultural heritage means that there is lots of delicious food to sample.

The fantastic bazaar is amazing to wander around and there are lots of old churches and mosques for you to visit, as well as a brilliant history and art museum. Lying on the Aegean Sea, Izmir has some great beaches on offer and its welcoming population will make you feel at home in no time at all.

Alanya

Located on the south coast, Alanya is a popular place to visit; lots of companies offer cheap package tours here. As such, the city is full of sunseekers who come to enjoy the all-inclusive hotels, the pounding nightlife, and, of course, the sun and sea.

While many people simply come to kick back and relax, Alanya has a lovely waterfront, some great historical sights and a scenic look to it; the hills that surround the center of town are coated in traditional houses.

Consequently, you can be enjoying a boat trip one minute, marveling at the spectacular old Citadel the next, and later on be reveling in the raucous nightlife after a sun-kissed day of activities.

Urgup

The small town of Urgup is a quiet, laidback place for the most part, and is the perfect base from which to explore the stunning Cappadocia region of Turkey. Despite being a rural town, its lively downtown area means that there are more than enough nice hotels, restaurants, and cafes for visitors to enjoy, and some of the cave hotels truly are memorable to stay in. While there aren’t any attractions per se, the beautiful stone houses and old rocky hillside make it a scenic town to visit.

Because it is set in the heart of the wine-producing region, there are lots of great wines to try. From here, you should visit the spectacular Churches of Goreme nearby or take a hot air balloon ride over the incredible countryside.

Antalya

Lying on the Gulf of Antalya, Antalya’s coastline looks absolutely stunning and the towering cliffs offer up spectacular views of the mountains off in the distance. A wonderful city to visit, Antalya is drenched in history and the old center of Kaleici is delightful to explore, with fine Ottoman houses lining the narrow streets and alleys.

Nearby, the Roman-era harbor is a lovely place to stop off and take in the sea breeze and there are a couple of nice beaches that are perfect for relaxing on. Once seen as the gateway to the Turkish Riviera, it is well worth visiting; the wealth of attractions, fine dining options, and great weather make for an intoxicating mix.

1. Istanbul

Istanbul

One of the most remarkable cities in the world, Istanbul straddles the Bosphorus Strait and has long been a place where the East and West meet. Due to its long and tumultuous history, various cultures and people have impacted the city over the ages; you can find delightful traces of the Greeks, Romans, and Venetians scattered about town.

See also: Where to Stay in Istanbul

Thanks to its strategic location, merchants flocked to Istanbul bringing their wares and wealth, and this translated into the beautiful buildings, delightful mosques and fantastic palaces that we see today. Packed full of ancient sights such as the famous Byzantine church of Haghia Sophia, Istanbul is a delight to visit.

There are a plethora of brilliant restaurants, bars and nightlife options for visitors to check out. A magical place to wander around, Istanbul’s friendly and welcoming population will have you falling in love with the city in no time at all.

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Map of cities in Turkey

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The Turkey Traveler

30 Most Beautiful Cities in Turkey You Need To Visit!

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If you are looking for the most beautiful cities in Turkey, then you have come to the right place. Spanning across Europe and Asia, Turkey is a unique country with influences from all around the world.

Its diversity means that no two cities are the same, and has created not only some of the most fascinating cultures, traditions and religions, but it has also left remarkable architecture and stunning landmarks that leave visitors in awe.

From ornate mosques to labyrinth-filled bazaars and white-sand beaches to lush green mountains, Turkey’s beauty is both in its cultural heritage and landscape.

You might already know some of the most famous cities in Turkey, such as Istanbul, Cappadocia (or more specifically, Goreme), and Antalya , but there are so many more beautiful places in Turkey.

We are blessed with the opportunity to explore some of these gorgeous destinations on our own, and we are here to share with you 30 of the most beautiful Turkey’s cities!

What Are The Most Beautiful Cities In Turkey? 

1. istanbul.

Balat-Neighborhood-Istanbul

No list of the best cities in Turkey would be complete without the jewel in Turkey’s crown – Istanbul, the largest and most populated city in Turkey with over 15 million residents. Straddling both Asia and Europe across the Bosphorus Strait, it is a unique city that sits on two different continents.

This bustling metropolis is regarded as the most beautiful city in Turkey thanks to its historic mosques featuring intricate calligraphy, cobblestone streets, and incredible views of the Bosphorus Strait, especially from Camlica Hill and Bosphorus Bridge.

Istanbul is a historically rich yet modern city, and it was inhabited as early as 3000 B.C. As you wander the streets here, you will see evidence of its Greek, Byzantine, and Ottoman past.

As for things to do in Istanbul, the must-see sights in this beautiful Turkish city include the beautiful Topkapi Palace, Galata Tower, dramatic Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque with its colorful Iznik tile work, and the sprawling and colorful Grand Bazaar, where you can shop ‘til you drop! 

📚 Read More: Most Beautiful Places In Istanbul, Turkey

Cappadocia-Hot-Air-Balloon-Safety

If you are into breathtaking natural landscapes, then Goreme is going to be one of the most gorgeous cities in Turkey for you.

Situated in the Central Anatolia region of Turkey, Goreme is the historic center of the touristy region of Cappadocia, where you’ll find unique rock formations known as “fairy chimneys”, cave dwellings, and historic cave churches.

This small town in Cappadocia of only 2000 residents was awarded the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. As you stroll around town, you’ll find many local restaurants serving authentic regional food, as well as many stunning places to stay, some of which are cave rooms built from natural geological formations.

One of the best things to do in Goreme is to visit the Goreme Open Air Museum , which isn’t your typical museum but a complex of cave churches that are decorated with ornate frescoes.

And if you really want to take in the panoramic views of Cappadocia , then hopping in one of the sunrise hot air balloon rides is a must! Don’t forget to stay in one of the hotels in Cappadocia with views of hot air balloons as well!

📚 Read More: Best Hotels In Cappadocia With Stunning Views of Hot Air Balloons!

Konak-Neighborhood-Izmir

Built along the Aegean coast and steeped in history, Izmir is one of the most beautiful cities in Turkey. Its history dates back to ancient times and involves the Greeks, Romans and even Alexander the Great.

The city’s stunning coastline along the Aegean Sea offers picturesque beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant sunsets. While in the city, you’ll find vibrant neighborhoods featuring charming streets, colorful architecture, and bustling markets.

Nowadays, the nation’s third largest city is most known for its archaeological sites, including the Roman Agora of Smyrna, the Velvet Castle, which provides the city’s best view, and the hilltop castle of Kadifekale .

The city is also a great place to explore other beautiful historical attractions such as Ephesus , Pamukkale , and more.

Konyaalti-Beach-Antalya

No list of the most beautiful cities in Turkey is complete without Antalya, a beautiful seaside city located on Turkey’s famous Turquoise Coast in the southern Mediterranean. Here, you’ll find some of the best beaches in Turkey, many of which are blue flag beaches, and a stunning mountainous backdrop to complement the views.

We rate it as one of the most gorgeous cities in Turkey because the ocean here is the most glorious shade of blue, and the beaches look like something from a travel magazine.

So, as you can guess, most of the best things to do in Antalya involve the sea, from exploring Antalya’s white sand beaches like Konyaaltı Beach, Moonlight Beach, and Mermerli Beach to wandering the Old Harbor filled with yachts. It is here where you can take an iconic boat trip from Antalya as well.

If you’re into history, Antalya has an Old Town called Kaleici, where you’ll find historical buildings and narrow cobblestone streets lined with charming shops, cafés, and restaurants. Don’t miss out on some of the archaeological sites here, such as Hadrian’s Gate, Hidirlik Tower, and more. There are also plenty of great museums in Antalya worth visiting!

Alacati-Streets

Situated on the Çeşme Peninsula, Alacati is a beautiful port town in Turkey. Once just a small village in Western Turkey, today it’s a popular tourist destination, and, interestingly, the area got its name from the ‘Alacaat tribe’ who once called this place home. 

Lying along the deep blue Aegean Sea, this city is one of the most beautiful places in Turkey because of its rugged, white sand beaches, vineyards, and unique stone architecture. Watersport lovers can enjoy adrenalin-pumping fun at the Port Alaçatı Marina, where jetskiing and inflatable boating are available.

However, Alacati’s most beautiful feature must be the charming stone houses, adorned with colorful shutters and doors, and narrow cobblestone streets lined with vibrant bougainvillea flowers. These picturesque streets are home to chic boutiques, inviting cafés, and delightful restaurants serving authentic Turkish cuisine.

Cesme-Marina-Turkey

Just a short drive from Alacati is Cesme, a beautiful resort town known for its gorgeous sandy beaches such as Ilica Beach and Altinkum Beach, where visitors can relax and enjoy white powdery sand and crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. Cesme’s thermal springs offer therapeutic benefits and are perfect for rejuvenation.

Cesme is also home to the postcard-worthy Cesme Harbor, where travelers will find a lively area filled with upscale shops, restaurants, and bars, ideal for daytime and nighttime entertainment.

Lastly, Cesme Bay is famous as the location of the Battle of Chesma, a naval battle between the Ottoman and Russian fleets during the Russo-Turkish War. Those who want to learn more about the city’s fascinating history can visit the Çeşme Museum and Cesme Castle .

7. Kusadasi

Kusadasi-Harbor-Sea

Kusadasi is one of the most popular beach resort towns in Turkey, thanks to its glorious beaches backed by an azure blue sea, fascinating historic ruins (the ancient city of Ephesus is within throwing distance), and the Dilek Peninsula National Park !

The city is also a popular cruise ship destination, and as such, it can get very busy here, especially during the summer months. The wonderful waterside promenade is the busiest street in the city, and it’s lined with excellent colorful shops, restaurants, bars, and luxury hotels.

Our top tip for Kusadasi is to spend half a day wandering Kusadasi Castle on Pigeon Island , a unique island in Turkey that’s connected to the mainland via a causeway. Of course, beach-hopping is a popular pastime in Kusadasi, too, and the best beaches here are Ladies Beach and Silver Sands Beach.

summer in bodrum

Bodrum is one of the most popular port cities in Turkey. Located in Southwestern Turkey, its aptly named Bar Street is widely recognized as one of Turkey’s best places to party.

And while the night is reserved for partying, you should spend your days here relaxing on one of the many clear water beaches that pepper the coastline  – we love Yahsi Beach and Gümbet Beach .

The city formerly known as Halicarnassus thrived in the 5th Century under the rule of King Mausolus and his wife. When Mausolus died, his widow ordered the construction of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, regarded as one of the best sights in Bodrum. 

The Castle of St Peter is a must-visit attraction in Bodrum, and from the battlements of this 15th Century Castle, you’ll be treated to an epic view of the harbor. 

In short, Bodrum is one of the most beautiful and most-visited cities in Turkey thanks to its pristine beaches with crystal clear waters and luxurious resorts.

Fethiye-City-Turkey

Fethiye is part of the Turkish Riviera – it’s considered one of Turkey’s most gorgeous tourist destinations thanks to its beautiful natural harbor, Mediterranean beaches, proximity to the stunning Butterfly Valley , and vibrant nightlife. There are many reasons to visit Fethiye , but its natural beauty is top of the list.

The city is built on the ancient ruins of Telmessos (aka the “Land of Lights”) – one of the most important Turkish cities during the Lycian era.

The best activities in Fethiye include a scenic cruise to the tiny islands in the harbor, paragliding over Ölüdeniz Lagoon (only for the brave, in my opinion!), or exploring the ruined city of Karmylassos just 8 km from the historic center. All of these activities are perfect for exploring the famed beauty of Fethiye!

📚 Read more: Things to do in Oludeniz and Fethiye

10. Marmaris

Port-of-Marmaris

On the same stretch of coast as Fethiye lies Marmaris; with its charming old town, golden-sand beaches, and pine-covered hills, it’s no wonder it often tops lists of the most gorgeous places in Turkey.

It became part of the Ottoman Empire in 1425, and in 1521 Marmaris Castle was built to be used in an attack on the Greek Island of Rhodes, which today can be reached via a short ferry ride from Marmaris.

Visitors to Marmaris should check out the Marmaris Grand Bazaar , aka the Carsi Market, for unique Turkish souvenirs or have some water-based fun at the Atlantis Waterpark. Of course, the city’s beaches can’t be missed, and Marmaris Beach is the biggest and one of the best here!

Castle-of-Alanya-Turkey

The Turkish Riviera town of Alanya is a true contender for the most beautiful city in Turkey thanks to its clear blue sea, epic sunsets, and authentic Turkish village vibe. It’s also home to the famed Cleopatra Beach, named so because the Egyptian Queen is said to have swum here!

Alanya has changed hands many times throughout history – from the Romans to the Greeks to the Ottomans. And that mish-mash of cultures is reflected in the city’s architecture and unique atmosphere.

Besides famous beaches, there are plenty of things to do in Alanya , from checking out the numerous restaurants, bars and shops at the harbor and exploring the town’s famous Alanya Castle .

Built on a rocky outcrop, visitors can have spectacular views of the seaside town and the Mediterranean Sea at the Alanya Castle while they learn about the history of the town and the region.

Amasra

The tiny fishing village of Amasra hugs the Black Sea in Turkey’s Bartın Province and is best described as a hidden gem. 

History tells us that Amasra was part of ancient Paphlagonia and was called Amastria. It was even mentioned in the Iliad by Homer!

This Black Sea port town is renowned for being one of the country’s most breathtaking places. It is where the crystal-clear sea meets lush green mountains, and the historic center is a mix of Byzantine and Ottoman influence. Visitors will find narrow cobblestone streets lined with traditional Ottoman houses, creating a nostalgic ambiance.

With a population of just 6,000 people, Amasra retains its small town charm that visitors love. There are plenty of memorable things to do in Amasra, from admiring the view of the bay and Rabbit Island from Kemere Bridge to hopping on a boat tour around Rabbit Island to enjoying a drink or some food with a view at the waterside restaurants. 

📚 Read More: Can You Swim In The Black Sea In Turkey?

Bursa-City-View

With a nickname like ‘Green Bursa’ it should come as no surprise why this large metropolis, home to many stunning city parks and nestled at the foot of the giant Mount Uludağ made our list of Turkey’s most beautiful cities.

Located in the country’s Northwest, Bursa played an important role in Turkey’s ancient past, and in 1326 it became the Ottoman Empire’s first capital city.  

Like Istanbul, the conservative city of Bursa is known for its mosques, especially the 14th Century Great Mosque, which boasts 20 stunning domes. The fourth largest city in Turkey is home to one of the longest cable cars in the world. It’s 8.2 km long and travels up the side of Mount Uludağ.

Uludag National Park is one of the reasons why Bursa is named “Green Bursa”. It is one of Turkey’s most lush national parks, and visitors can hike in the summer and go skiing in the winter. Undoubtedly, it is one of the most beautiful cities near Istanbul !

City-View-of-Kemer

Kemer is situated on Turkey’s Southern Mediterranean coast and its beauty is well-known due to its pebbled crescent-shaped beaches and the Olympos Cable Car, which climbs to the top of the lush Tahtali Mountains.

Formerly known as the Greek City of Idyros, it was believed to be founded in 690 BC and was once a very important sea trading port.

While if you’re keen to have a beach day in Kemer, you can’t go wrong with Kemer Beach ; conveniently, it’s the closest beach to the city center. FYI, watersport fans will want to check out Moon Light Beach, close to Yoruk Park. Kemer also has a vibrant nightlife, perfect for those looking to party!

15. Eğirdir

Egirdir-Viewpoint

If you are looking for beautiful lakeside towns in Turkey, then you must check our Eğirdir. Located in the Isparata Province of Turkey, the town of about 16,000 residents is situated on the pristine Lake Eğirdir .

This small town is surprisingly one of the most ancient cities in Turkey. It is believed to have been founded around 1200 BC by the Hittites, and since then, have seen influences from Phrygians, Lydians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Seljuks, and Ottomans.

Though there are few historic buildings and attractions left in the town (because it is not very touristy), then is the Eğirdir Castle worth checking out.

Visitors typically come to Eğirdir to enjoy the refreshing waters of Eğirdir Lake and the sweeping views of the lake. There are soaring mountains nearby where visitors can hike up and enjoy panoramic views of the region!

16. Trabzon

Uzungol-Lake-Trabzon

Built on the Black Sea coast in the Northeast of the country, Trabzon is nicknamed the Black Sea Pearl because of its beautiful ocean views!

Trabzon is famous for having its own Hagia Sophia, now a museum adorned with beautiful ceiling frescoes. But one of Trabzon’s most beautiful and awe-inspiring buildings is Sumela Monastery, a short drive away. The Monastery is built into the side of a cliff and is an impressive engineering feat.

The city has sweeping views of the black sea, but the surrounding areas are even more gorgeous. Just a short drive from Trabzon is Uzungöl, one of the most beautiful lakes in Turkey. It is surrounded by lush green mountains, making it a popular destination for nature lovers that enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking.

17. Sirince

sirince, Turkey

The quaint mountain village of Sirince is just a 15-minute drive from the ancient Greek City of Ephesus, one of Turkey’s most popular tourist destinations. This sleepy village’s beauty is remarkable with its traditional whitewashed houses with terracotta roofs and cobblestoned narrow streets.

This village also produces great fruity wine, so one of the best things to do here is go wine tasting. While the town is quite beautiful and charming, it is quite small. We don’t recommend you spend more than a weekend in Sirince or you might get bored!

Cathedral-of-the-Holy-Cross-Akdamar-Island-Van

Located in the eastern parts of Turkey, Van is one of the most beautiful Turkish cities thanks to its location on the shores of the vividly blue Lake Van. It’s a historically important city as it was once the capital of the Urartu and Armenian Kingdoms. 

There are heaps to keep you busy on vacation in this sophisticated modern city, from visiting Akdamar Island, the second biggest island on Lake Van. It’s home to the iconic Armenian Holy Cross Cathedral. 

The Castle of Van is another must-visit in this wonderful city. This huge stone fortress is located at the summit of a 100-meter-tall cliff and boasts phenomenal views of Lake Van. 

19. Erzurum

Grand-Mosque-Erzurum-Turkey

The picturesque city of Erzurum is located in Eastern Anatolia, off the beaten path. What makes it one of the most beautiful cities in Turkey is that it’s situated 1,900 meters above sea level and is surrounded by soaring mountains and ski resorts, perfect for those that enjoy natural beauty.

This small city was founded in 4,000 B.C., and one can learn all about the many civilizations that settled here at the Erzurum Museum. Another must-see attraction in Erzurum is the Çifte Minareli Medrese, a beautiful medieval building that once served as an Islamic Seminary.

Erzurum’s Central Park is a great place for a nature walk, and while you’re there, be sure to snap some photos of Yakutiye Medresesi, which features stunning mosaic tile work. 

Erzurum’s unique blend of natural splendor and historical significance makes it one of the best cities in Turkey to visit for tourists.

Mersin-Maidens-Castle-Turkey

In the South of Turkey and along the Mediterranean Coast lies the city of Mersin, a popular and beautiful tourist destination because of its sandy beaches, fascinating archaeological sites, green open spaces, and easygoing vibe!

The surrounding Taurus Mountains provide breathtaking views and opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.

When you are not sunbathing on the beaches or going for a refreshing swim, the Mersin Museum is a great spot to spend a few hours examining the various sculptures and archaeological artifacts discovered nearby.

Also close by is Gilindire Cave, also known as Aynalıgöl Cave, a beautiful cave system that can be accessed via a boat tour from the town of Aydincik or a 15-minute walk from the Antalya-Mersin highway.

If you have the extra time, make sure you check out the Maiden’s Castle in Kızkalesi, a small town just an hour away from Mersin. It is home to one of the most iconic Turkish landmarks , the Maidens Castle (which is also what Kızkalesi translates to in Turkish), an island castle that is both historic and beautiful!

Side-Turkey-Shopping-Street

The best city to visit in Turkey if you’re looking to mix history with beaches is Side on the Mediterranean Coast. A stunning tourist resort town, it’s a sought-after destination thanks to its plethora of excellent beaches within easy reach of downtown – from Side Beach to Full Moon, and interesting Greco-Roman ruins.

So, history lovers will surely love checking out the city’s ancient landmarks like the Temple of Athena on the harbor or the huge Roman Theater, which has an awesome view of the Taurus mountains from its top tier of seating.

Edirne-Mosque

Edirne, in the Northwest of Turkey, is another historically important city as it once served as the capital of the Ottoman Empire . Interestingly, it was from Edirne that Mehmet the Conqueror initiated a successful military operation to capture Constantinople (now known as Istanbul!)

It enjoys a unique location straddling the Greek, Bulgarian, and Turkish borders, and that’s only one of the most beautiful things about this city – Edirne’s elegant mosques are a big attraction here.

The 16th Century Selimiye Mosque is considered to be one of the best examples of classic Ottoman architecture in Turkey and a present-day UNESCO World Heritage site. The mosque also houses the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum. The Üç Şerefeli mosque is also well worth checking out. 

23. Eskişehir

Eskisehir-Castle

Meaning “old city,” Eskişehir is a large, lively city in the country’s Northwest and is 233 km from Ankara. It has a very European feel, thanks to the settlers from Crimea and the Balkans who came to the city in the 19th Century.  

This modern city made our list because not only is it home to lovely parks and natural hot sulfur springs but it’s recently been rated by Lonely Planet as the happiest and most liveable city in Turkey.

One of the top attractions in Eskişehir is the DisneyLand-esque Sazova Science, Arts, and Culture Park, one of the biggest amusement parks in the region. It features a large swimming pool, a zoo, a science museum, playgrounds, and a steam train that transports visitors around the park. 

Art lovers will feel at home at the Odunpazari Modern Museum here, which exhibits over 1,000 pieces of modern and contemporary art.

24. Oludeniz

Blue-Lagoon-oludeniz-Turkey

Undoubtedly one of the most famous and breathtaking beach resorts in the Mugla Province, Ölüdeniz literally translates to “dead sea,” a nod to the city’s top attraction, Ölüdeniz Lagoon (aka Blue Lagoon ).

The calm, turquoise waters here are ideal for swimming, and if you do just one thing in this Turkish coastal city , make it a trip to this bucket-list-worthy nature reserve. 

But there are more things to do in Ölüdeniz than just the blue lagoon; the crescent-shaped Ölüdeniz Beach is widely referred to as one of the world’s best sandy beaches by travel writers!

25. Çanakkale

Trojan-Horse-In-Canakkale

And last but certainly not least is Çanakkale in the Marmara region. It attracts thousands of visitors every year who flock here to explore Troy – one of the most famous cities of the ancient world and the site of the Trojan War.

The city is also the gateway to the Gallipoli battlefields, where you can learn all about the Battle of Gallipoli (which happened during World War I) and pay your condolences to the fallen soldiers.

But this coastal city offers prospective visitors more than its famed ancient sites. Beautiful sandy beaches, wineries, and excellent restaurants are also waiting to be enjoyed!

Konya

Konya is a small city near Cappadocia which isn’t your usual tourist hot spot, but it’s worth getting off the beaten path for this place.

The vibes here are laid-back and the city just puts you at ease, and the locals are super friendly and always up for a chat – particularly as they don’t see many tourists in their quiet city.

Not to mention Konya is known for its mouthwatering kebabs and delicious sweets like baklava.

The city is also a pilgrimage destination for Sufis, who come to the city to pay their respects at the Mausoleum of Rumi, the resting place of the founder of the Mevlana order, Jelaleddin Rumi.

The tomb is located in the Mevlana Museum, where you can learn more about the Whirling Dervishes. You can also watch Sema whirling dervish ceremonies at the Mevlana Cultural Center.

Konya is considered the birthplace of the Whirling Dervishes, so you can bet most of the attractions are focused around this spiritual practice.

Adana Turkey

You may have heard of Adana which is famously associated with its namesake dish, the Adana Kebab.

Like Konya, it’s a small city that’s often skipped by tourists, but it still has a lot to offer. The city has a long history, and many of its historic landmarks are still intact, including the Stone Bridge, which dates back to Roman times.

It also has a scenic riverside landscape, surrounded by urban parks, beautiful mosques, and authentic bazaars. It’s a quaint and relaxing city in Turkey that still remains a hidden gem.

Anitkabir-Ankara-turkey

Ankara is the capital of Turkey, though is often skipped by tourists who are unaware there is anything to do here.

The city is actually packed with history and has plenty of attractions to explore. One of the most popular landmarks in the city is the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which has a massive collection of ancient artifacts.

The most notable attraction though is Anıtkabir, which is the Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk the founding father of the Republic of Turkey.

If you’re into exploring old neighborhoods, the Citadel area is perfect for wandering around and seeing authentic Turkish life.

29. Sanliurfa (Urfa)

Göbekli Tepe

Sanliurfa, or Urfa as it’s known to the locals, is a city dripping with history. In fact, it’s believed to be the birthplace of our human ancestors!

Most people visit Sanliurfa to visit the Göbekli Tepe, is a mind-blowing open-air archaeological museum site that dates back to the Neolithic age (9500-8000 BCE). It’s known for its large circular structures which contain the world’s oldest known megaliths.

Aside from Gobekli Tepe, Sanliurfa is known for its peaceful and beautiful old city, which is home to Urfa Castle, and Balıklıgöl, a tranquil pool in the middle of the city.

Mardin

If you’re seeking a hidden gem city in Turkey to visit, Mardin is a worthy choice. It’s often overlooked since it’s located near to the Syria border, but those who venture there will find a treasure trove of history and culture.

It’s best known for its old city, which has is perched on a hill overlooking the plains and Syria in the distance, and is filled with unique Artuqid architecture.

Some notable attractions to check out are The Zinciriye Medresesi, a historic building built in the 14th century. It has stunning views overlooking the city.

To learn more about Mardin’s past, visit the Sakip Sabanci Mardin Museum, a stunning museum located in the former city barracks.

Map Of The Most Beautiful Cities In Turkey

Below is a map containing all of the beautiful Turkish cities we have discussed above. Using this map, you’ll be able to plan a Turkey itinerary that includes as many as you wish (if that’s what you want). It definitely helped us to see what the distance is between some of these places and see whether visiting them is worth it or not.

How Many Cities Are In Turkey?

There are approximately 145 cities in Turkey, per the definition that a city must have more than 50,000 residents. This number can change and fluctuate, depending on the change in population. The biggest and more populous city in Turkey is Istanbul, with over 15 million residents.

Some classify a city as having more than 10,000 residents. In that case, there are around 510 cities in Turkey.

It is also worth noting that some cities are still considered cities even though the population has dipped below the threshold.

Most Beautiful Cities In Turkey FAQs

What are the most beautiful small cities in turkey.

The most beautiful small cities in Turkey are Goreme, Eğirdir, Amasra, Side, and Alacati. All of these cities have less than 20,000 residents, retaining their small-town charm that is perfect for escaping some of the hustle and bustle of big cities.

What Are The Main Cities In Turkey?

The main cities in Turkey are Istanbul with over 15 million population, Ankara (the capital of Turkey) with over 5 million population, and Izmir with over 4 million in population.

What Are The Best Cities To Visit in Turkey?

The best cities to visit in Turkey are Istanbul, Izmir, Goreme (Cappadocia), and Antalya. Altogether, these cities are home to some of the most historic places in Turkey, beautiful natural landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and breathtaking beaches.

How To Get Between Cities In Turkey?

There are many ways to get between cities in Turkey. The most affordable and convenient is usually the long-distance bus. However, depending on which cities you are going to, you might also be able to take a train or a ferry. Of course, you can always rent a car and drive or arrange a tourist shuttle.

Final Thoughts

Because of Turkey’s rich history and unique geographic location, there are an abundance of gorgeous cities in Turkey. Whether you are looking for a city with white-sand beaches, one that is nestled in green rolling hills, or one filled with historic landmarks, there is a place for you.

We hope our list of 30 of the most beautiful cities in Turkey has inspired you to book a flight to this amazing country!

tourist city of turkey

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Sean Lau is a professional travel blogger and writer with adoration for Turkey. Originally from the USA, Sean frequently travels to Turkey to explore every nook and cranny. From bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the tranquil beaches of Antalya, Sean has seen it all. He hopes to share his first-hand knowledge, insider insights, and personal anecdotes to inspire fellow travelers to visit Turkey, especially to his favorite destinations – Istanbul and Cappadocia.

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Home > 33 Best Cities In Turkey To Visit – 2024 List & Map

33 Best Cities In Turkey To Visit – 2024 List & Map

Post author Nicky

Written by our local expert Nicky

Nicky, originally from the UK, is now a local in Turkey. She moved to Marmaris, Türkiye for love 12 years ago and is now your Turkey travel planner.

Turkey is not just Istanbul; the fascinating country Türkiye has many cities worth your vacation time. I have been traveling to Turkey for 15 years and still have not seen them all.

That said, here is a list of the best cities in Turkey I loved, from the Aegean Coast to the Black Sea and everything in between. I list what you can see and do in each of the top cities – and why you should visit each one.

  • Kahramanmaras

Turkey Travel Blog_Best Cities To Visit In Turkey

Türkiye is not just about beaches . Sure, the south coast is dotted with countless stunning clear-sea beaches, but if you assume that’s all Turkey is about, you’re missing out in a big, big way!

The authentic Turkish way of life is something every visitor should experience, and the single best way to do that is to head away from the beach resorts and visit a couple of cities in Türkiye.

You’ll experience the culture and traditions of ancient Turkish cities and enjoy the best cuisine. You’ll also see history in abundance.

Of course, Turkey is a big country, which means there are many urban places to visit in Türkiye . To help you figure out the best cities in Turkey to head to, let’s check out where to go in Türkiye for urban vibes, historical landmarks, and delicious cuisine.

Map Of Cities In Turkey

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

1. Istanbul

Best Hotels Near The Blue Mosque -

Without a doubt, Istanbul is Türkiye’s most famous city. It’s also the busiest and largest city in Turkey. Of course, it’s not the capital city anymore, but that doesn’t stop millions of visitors from heading there yearly to experience that bustling Istanbul city life.

What to do in Istanbul:

  • 🚢 Enjoy the city view with live music and stage performances on this cruise with private tables
  • 🚶 Discover the Basilica Cistern beneath the streets of Istanbul with a guided tour
  • 🕌 Enter the magnificent Hagia Sophia, which is the world’s largest place of worship, built by Emperor Justinian in 532 AD on this tour
  • 🍲 Eat your way through Istanbul and sample Turkish delicacies with a guided tour of local favorite food spots
  • 🏰 Skip the line and enter one of the most interesting museums of Turkey – Topkapi Palace and the Balkan Peninsula with this ticket

Istanbul is a city like no other and is undoubtedly one of the best Turkish cities.

Firstly, it’s the only major city in the world to straddle two continents; half of Istanbul is in Europe, and the other half is in Asia! You cross the Bosphorus , and you’re literally in another continent entirely. Cool, right?

The other reason people head to Istanbul is that it’s packed with history. The buildings in Istanbul will make your jaw drop, but there is plenty of the modern-day there, too. History, gastronomy, shopping , nightlife , you name it, you’ll find it. There’s far too much to mention here, so let’s summarize it.

What To See

Everything! The problem with Istanbul is that it’s so big and hectic. This is one of the biggest cities in Türkiye, Europe, and the world. That means you can’t get to see everything in the space of one visit.

So, you have to shortlist the must-visit spots for you. Everyone is different, but if I had to recommend a few places, I’d say Dolmabahce Palace , Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, Grand Bazaar, Basilica Cistern, and Topkapi Palace. All of those are among the top sights to see in Turkey.

Those are the most famous spots, but make sure you head to Taksim for shopping and nightlife, visit Cevahir Mall for major credit card shopping damage, and stop by Besiktas for some of the best (and cheapest) food around. Oh, and if you want a beachside vibe, head to upmarket Bebek for waterside chills and seafood.

You can go to Istanbul any time of year, but bear in mind that the heat can make the crowds very difficult to deal with during the summer months!

Istanbul doesn’t reach the scorching temperatures that the south coast hits. Still, it can be hot indeed, and during July and August, temperatures hit 30 or more regularly.

Winter is the most popular time to visit, and the potential for snow makes the landscapes simply beautiful.

However, Istanbul can be very cold and wet during the winter too. You have to put up with whatever weather Istanbul throws at you, but you’ll be so busy enjoying yourself that you won’t notice.

How To Get There

There are direct flights from almost all major cities via a range of airlines. If you’re already in Türkiye and want to head to Istanbul for a few days, you can take an internal flight with Sun Direct, Pegasus, or Turkish Airlines or take the bus.

Pamukkale and Kamil Koc are two of the most popular, but do remember that you’re looking at around 12 hours on the bus from the south coast to Istanbul compared to 1 hour on the plane!

  • How To Travel Between Istanbul & Cappadocia
  • Our Favorite Hotels Near The Blue Mosque

Things to do in Ankara Turkey - Ankara and Kocatepe Mosque

Ankara is Turkey’s capital city and second largest city. Located in the center of the country, this is where you’ll find the main government buildings, a large amount of history, and a very traditional vibe.

For those who want to experience authentic Turkish life and see one of the major cities in Türkiye , a visit to Ankara is a must.

Many tourists avoid Ankara and stick to Istanbul, but that’s a mistake because the capital is a great place to experience . It also has a very modern and fun vibe, and you’ll find some great restaurants and nightlife spots too.

Without a doubt, a visit to Anitkabir is a must. This is the mausoleum of Ataturk. The founder of the Republic of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, was the first president of Türkiye.

It is enormous, so make sure you take time to appreciate its stunning beauty while also understanding that it is a bustling place too. When it comes to Turkish history, this is one of the best places in Türkiye to visit .

The other spots to head to are the Museum of Anatolian Civilisations and Ankara Castle, the beautiful Kocatepe Mosque. Don’t forget to make dinner reservations at Ankara Atakule, a massive communications tower with a top-quality restaurant – dinner with a view!

Book your private Ankara tour with a local here!

Ankara is another one of those famous cities in Turkey you can visit at any time, but during the winter months, you can expect snow, and sometimes lots of it.

The central part of Türkiye can become very cold during the winter, so perhaps the shoulder months of April and May or October and November would be a better option. The summer isn’t the wrong time to visit , but it can be pretty hot without any sea breeze to cool you down for many miles.

Ankara is connected to most major cities via direct flights, and even if you can’t get a direct flight, you can always fly to Istanbul and then connect via domestic flight. Again, long-distance but networks within Turkey are an excellent way to get to the capital. Remember that the journey can be long – you’re looking at around 7 hours from Istanbul to Ankara.

  • Epic Things To Do In Ankara

Things to do in Izmir Turkey

Izmir is often seen as Turkey’s second most modern city. It also has a vibrant and youthful vibe about it. Located in Western Turkey, with the blue Aegean Sea lapping at its shores , Izmir is a fantastic city to visit, and it has many beach resorts dotted around it too. If you’re looking for beach cities in Türkiye to see, this is a fantastic destination.

If you’re looking for shopping and nightlife, this is the place to visit after Istanbul. The city has a very young feel to it, and you’ll see students heading to universities around the city, dining out during the evenings, and enjoying time out with friends on weekends. The weather is also beautiful most of the year , and there are some vast shopping malls to splash the cash in.

Izmir is quite sprawling, but you should be sure to head to the seaside, where you can enjoy chilled-out days and evenings and even take a horse-drawn carriage ride!

The promenade doesn’t feel like it’s in the middle of a vast city at all, but just behind the beachside, you’ll find huge roads that spread all around the city’s reaches, to huge malls and beyond. There are countless places to eat, drink, and party, but if you want to shop here

d to the old bazaar, where you can haggle for your souvenirs .

Of course, Izmir Clock Tower , Konak Square, and Yali Mosque are all must-visit spots.

Anytime! Izmir is a great city to visit year-round, although you should head there between May and October if you want to enjoy the beach. July and August are sweltering when temperatures can often hit 40 degrees, but even during the winter, the temperatures are generally relatively mild compared to many other places in Europe.

Direct flights from most cities head to Izmir all year round . From Istanbul, the flight time to Izmir is just 1 hour. Again, the coach network within Turkey will also get you to Izmir from many other cities.

  • Is Izmir Worth Visiting?
  • Luxury Hotels In Izmir

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Cities in Turkey - Konya, Beysehir stone bridge view in town.Historic stone bridge on Beysehir lake

Konya is located in Central Anatolia and somewhat off the beaten track for many tourists.

However, that doesn’t mean it’s not an excellent spot to head to, and it’s also a common drop-off point for people visiting nearby Cappadocia .

Konya is perhaps most famous for being the former home of Rumi, the Persian poet, and you’ll also find the Mausoleum of Rumi in Konya.

While Konya is one of the most conservative towns in Türkiye compared to other tourist spots in Turkey, such as Izmir and Istanbul , that means you’ll get to see authentic traditions here, and that’s what travel is all about.

Nightlife In Istanbul - Whirling Dervish_Turkey

The Mausoleum of Rumi is a very popular spot, and it’s also fascinating to learn more about the whirling dervishes . Head to the Mevlana Museum to find out more, and you might also see a whirling dervish performance at the Mevlana Cultural Centre.

Another interesting spot is the Alaeddin Mosque, which is beautiful in design and surrounded by peaceful gardens atop a hill with stunning views over the city. The mosque dates back to the 12th century.

Of course, Konya is also home to fantastic cuisine. You should 100% head to traditional ocakbasi restaurants and seafood spots to enjoy some of the finest Turkish food you’ll ever taste.

Again, you can visit Konya anytime, but summers are hot, with cold and often wet winters. It’s possible to see significant snowfall during the winter , especially in December and January. April , May, September, and October are delightful months when it’s not too hot and there is far less rain.

Fly direct to Istanbul from most major cities and then connect to an internal flight to Konya with Pegasus or Turkish Airlines. The flight from Istanbul to Konya takes 1 hour and 10 minutes.

  • How To Get From Istanbul To Konya

Cities InTurkey - Bursa, Turkey

Bursa is a young and bustling university city that is perfect for winter skiing , too! Bursa is around half an hour from the famous Uludag Mountain, which hosts some of the best winter sports in Türkiye. Even during the summer months, Bursa is a great place to head, and here, you’ll get to enjoy a more authentic experience compared to some of the more touristy cities.

Bursa is a green city with countless parks and open spaces, which is refreshing for a large city. Some charming small coastal towns also surround it, so you can easily extend your exploration a little.

Uludag Mountain is simply beautiful, and you should undoubtedly head there, even if you’re not considering skiing! During the summer, there are walking and climbing trails available. Uludag Teleferik is also considered the longest aerial tramway in Europe and will give you some fantastic views over the mountain range.

Check out the stunning Ulu Cami, or Great Mosque, which dates back to the 14th century. The mosque is beautiful in design, and it has 20 domes.

Of course, this being a large city, Bursa is also fantastic for shopping, with Korupark Shopping Centre considered one of the best.

If you want to ski, you should head to Bursa between November and the end of March. However, if skiing isn’t on your schedule, summer is an excellent time to visit the city. The city’s green looks stunning against the cloudless blue sky, and you can also head out to one of the small beach towns for a dip in the sea.

Bursa is just under 2 hours away from Istanbul by road (making it a great day trip from Istanbul !), so you can use the Pamukkale or Kamil Koc bus service to reach Bursa, having flown to Istanbul directly from most major cities.

  • Your Guide To Bursa

Traditional Turkish Adana Kebab or Kebap

Adana is located on the south coast, east of Antalya . Often overlooked by visitors looking for a beach break, this city is slightly more conservative than Antalya and other beach resorts . Still, it’s an excellent spot for those who want to enjoy a more authentic way of life.

Adana is located on the Seyhan River, and it is just inland. However, you can reach the warmth of the Mediterranean Sea in just over 15 minutes by car. You should undoubtedly check out many historical buildings around the area, but there are also many modern spots, such as busy cafes and restaurants.

The city is also the birthplace of the famous Adana kebab . It’s a bit spicy but nothing short of delicious; make sure you try the authentic recipe while you’re in the city. You must try this meat dish while in Turkey , which you’ll become instantly addicted to.

Be sure to wear your walking shoes, as Adana has plenty to see. Stone Bridge is a great starting point, a bridge built in Roman times and the beautiful Sabanci Merkez Mosque. The mosque has six minarets and sits in a stunning waterfront location.

On the other hand, City Park is a great place to enjoy a little people-watching, while Seyhan Dam is a pleasant spot to escape the city and enjoy peace. Ataturk Museum and Ataturk Park are also must-visits when in the area.

While there, stop by the famous Roman-era harbor known as the “ancient harbor of Phaselis.”

Phaselis is an ancient Lycian city located in the province of Antalya. The city boasts three harbors: the Northern Harbor, the Battle Harbor, and the Protected (Sun) Harbor. Of these, the Northern Harbor was the most important during Roman times. The ruins of Phaselis offer a glimpse into its rich history, including Roman baths, agoras, and a theater, among other structures. The site is surrounded by beautiful beaches, making it a popular spot for its historical value and natural beauty.

Adana is an excellent spot to visit regardless of the time of year, although again, during the summer, it can be sweltering indeed. During the winter, you’ll find relatively mind temperatures but more in the way of rain. It’s not unusual to reach the high 30s regularly throughout the peak summer months.

Flying direct to Istanbul is the best option here, and as before, there are many direct flights to Istanbul from most cities. You can then connect via domestic flight, which will take 1 hour and 30 minutes.

What To See In Antalya - Waterfall Duden at Antalya, Turkey

Antalya is one of Türkiye’s most visited spots and one of Turkey’s best destinations. This is also where most tourists will head if they intend to stay in one of the Antalya Province beach resorts, such as Kas , Lara Beach, Alanya, Kemer, Side, etc. However, Antalya is a city in its own right , packed with history, beauty, and plentiful modern-day amenities.

Located on the Mediterranean coast, the city has soaring mountains to one side and the impossible blue of the sea to the other. It’s worth heading out to one of the smaller beach resorts during your stay, although Antalya has some beautiful beaches and incredible natural wonders within very close reach.

So, if you’re looking for the best place to holiday in Turkey with beaches, it doesn’t get much better than beautiful, sunny Antalya.

In the city itself, you’re spoiled for choice. Duden Waterfalls are just a few minutes from the airport, and the dramatic spill of the water down into the sea is something you have to see for yourself. It’s one of Türkiye’s most beautiful, unique places to visit.

Hadrian Castle Gate is another must-visit, as well as Antalya Castle and Kursunlu Waterfall. Of course, the beach – Konyaalti Beach is one of the most famous in the country, and it’s a must-visit for summer fun!

Antalya is also an excellent spot for nightlife, shopping, and food too. You’ll find some fantastic restaurants around the city serving traditional and international dishes.

The good thing about Antalya is that it’s pretty mild all year round, although the heat does turn up during the summer months. If you want to swim in the sea, head to Antalya between May and the end of October.

However, remember that Antalya is one of the most visited cities in Turkey in summer , so crowds from June to September can be a problem. The temperatures are their hottest in July and August.

During the summer, the temperatures are very mild indeed, and although it can rain occasionally, your break is unlikely to be a washout.

There are direct flights to Antalya Airport throughout the summer months from most cities. However, during the winter, you may need to go via Istanbul. Flight time from Istanbul to Antalya is just 1 hour and 10 minutes.

  • Bodrum Vs. Antalya
  • Where To Stay In Antalya
  • Is Antalya Worth Visiting?

8. Gaziantep

Cities In Turkey - Gaziantep_Zeugma

For those adventurous travelers who want to explore a couple of off-the-beaten-track cities of Türkiye, Gaziantep is the perfect spot. This city is welcoming and beautiful, with natural beauty, history, and many traditions. The food here is nothing short of amazing, and you’ll leave with a genuine appreciation for Turkish cuisine .

Gaziantep is located in Turkey’s southeast , and it’s where pistachios are farmed. You’ll also hear it called ‘Antep.’ Packed with historic buildings, this part of Türkiye isn’t where most tourists tend to tread, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t.

The issue for most is that it is closer to the Syrian border than many other Turkish cities and resorts, but it isn’t an unsafe city by any means.

For those who want to explore a different side to what they probably know of Turkey, Gaziantep will help you uncover what you seek.

Head to the Gaziantep Archaeology Museum to learn more about the area and the ancient times; there are many artifacts that have been uncovered in this very historic part of the Türkiye.

Gaziantep Castle is a great starting point as this will show you the whole city before you; there is also an interesting military museum inside. Zeugma Mosaic Museum is another excellent spot to head to, especially if you’re trying to avoid the harsh summer sun.

Of course, most people will visit Gaziantep to learn about traditions and try some famous food . Known for its gastronomy, this is one of the best cities in Türkiye to visit for food . It’s here you can try the very best of Turkish cuisine. Meat kebabs here are something else entirely, and be sure to try lahmacun, meatballs, and ayran, too.

Gaziantep is very hot during the summer, and there is virtually no rain. During the winter, the temperatures drop suddenly, and the showers tend to arrive; however, there are often clear days in between. It’s not unusual to see an abundance of snowfall during the deepest winter days. Therefore, Gaziantep is best visited in April and May or perhaps late September into October.

A flight from Istanbul is your best option , like a bus from any significant Turkish city will take many hours. A flight from Istanbul will take just 1 hour 35 minutes.

Cities in Turkey - Trabzon - Sumela Monastery

Located on the Black Sea Coast, Trabzon is an overlooked city but a huge hidden gem . In the northeast of the country, you’ll see a completely different way of life from the rest of the country, although you will also get to see more rain here than anywhere else!

Trabzon’s black sea beaches are stunning and much less crowded than the ones you’ll see packed out on the south coast. Paradise Beach is also the best spot for sunsets. The city is mainly known for its high, green mountains, beautiful scenery, and anchovies. Yes, you heard right; Trabzon is famous for hamsi, a type of anchovy that is highly famous throughout the country – be sure to try some as fresh as possible!

In short, for a beautiful combination of coastal scenery, beaches, cuisine, and fewer tourists, Trabzon is one of the best Turkish cities to visit.

We’ve just mentioned Paradise Beach, but be sure to head to the mountains and have a proper Turkish breakfast amongst stunning scenery. In the city itself, the Hagia Sofia (not that one, a different one) dates back to the Byzantine era and Cag Megarasi, a cave network that is open to the public. Sera Lake is also a beautiful spot for nature, with pedal boats and fantastic restaurants.

March to May and September to November are the best times to visit Trabzon. Outside those months, you’ll see high summers with a fair amount of rain and cold temperatures with rain during the winter. Snow isn’t unusual from late December into January. Humidity can be a problem during the summer in this part of the country.

A flight from Istanbul to Trabzon takes just 1 hour and 35 minutes.

  • Your Guide To Trabzon
  • Black Sea Resorts In Trabzon

10. Sanliurfa  

Cities in Turkey- Gobeklitepe, Sanliurfa / Turkey

Sanliura, often called ‘Urfa’ by locals, is in southeast Turkey and is a fantastic place to visit if you want to explore the history, food, and local way of life. Here, you’ll have a totally different experience than if you were visiting one of the beach resorts on the south coast, and you’ll meet wonderful locals who will be more than happy to teach you about local customs and culture.  

Urfa is the birthplace of the Prophet Abraham and a city full of history and culture. It is also the former site of Edessa, the Byzantine city. You’ll find Gobeklitepe here, an archaeological site you can visit, checking out the neolithic monoliths that now have UNESCO World Heritage status .  

In the center of Urfa, you’ll find some of the most delicious street food, and make sure you give cig kofte a try – the appearance might put you off, but it’s truly delicious and very healthy, too!  

You’ll find unique architecture around the center of Urfa, and be sure to head to the Archaeological Museum to learn more about the area’s ancient history and Urfa castle.  

In reality, Urfa is an all-year-round city to visit; however, during the summer months (particularly June and August), the temperatures are scorching, and it hardly rains. You’re looking at 40 degrees during this time quickly and often more. So, if you’re not a fan of heat, perhaps avoid this time and stick to the shoulder months, between May and June and late September into early November.  

Winter times can be freezing, especially at night, and it often rains and possibly snows on high ground. However, early December and early February are still relatively mild, so these are good times to go .  

You will need to take a domestic flight from Istanbul to Sanlifurfa, or you could opt for the bus, but this will take you multiple hours – around 17-22 hours on average.  

Check Turkish Airlines and Pegasus for daily flights.  

11. Fethiye  

Fethiye King Tombs, Fethiye center of the 4th century BC, carved into the rock tomb. The Lycian Amintas King Tombs were built in Ionian style and carved from a single piece of rock.

We may be cheating here because strictly speaking, Fethiye is a large town and not a city, but it is growing at a fast rate, and you could argue it might as well have city status! It’s also a top spot to visit regardless of the month, and you’ll find relatively mild temperatures even during the winter.  

Fethiye is located on the south coast, around an hour from Dalaman Airport.  

you have plenty to see and do. This is the peak summer season, and beach time is a must. Olu Deniz is very close by , around 20 minutes away by road, and there you can see the famous Blue Lagoon and perhaps even check out paragliding – this is one of the best places on the planet for this rather hair-raising sport! It depends on when you’re going, but you have plenty to see and do if you’re visiting during the late spring and summer months.

Fethiye is also the start of the Lycian Way , so if you’re into walking and ancient ruins, this is a must for you. Saklikent Gorge is a beautiful spot during the summer months and will show you the very best of Mother Nature. Xanthos is a stone’s throw away, too – one of Turkey’s most famous archaeological sites with plenty of history and ruins to check out.  

In Fethiye , the harbor is a beautiful place to walk and grab a coffee; you can also take a boat trip or watch the stylish boats come and go.  

To get the best out of your visit, head to Fethiye between April and the end of October; however, remember that July and August are when temperatures soar, and there are likely to be more crowds at that time, too. June is beautiful as it’s not too hot yet, and the crowds aren’t quite at their highest point. However, the end of September and the beginning of October are also pleasant.  

In winter, temperatures are relatively mild, except for January, when it rains and gets quite cold . However, during the winter, you’ll also find that the tourist attractions and spots are all closed until the end of April.  

You can find direct flights to Dalaman Airport from most locations during the summer months, and during the winter, you can fly to Istanbul and then take a domestic flight down to Dalaman from there.  

It is around one hour from Dalaman to Fethiye by road, and there are regular buses and transfers to take you there and back.  

  • Where To Stay In Fethiye
  • Best Beaches In Fethiye
  • All-Inclusive Options In Fethiye

Most beautiful mosques in Turkey - Selimye Mosque - Edirne

Edirne is located in northwest Türkiye, right on the border with Bulgaria . This is a beautiful city that is lined with essential and impressive architecture. Once the Ottoman Empires capital, this is where Mehmet II launched his offensive to conquer Constantinople (nowadays Istanbul).  

Simply walking around the city is a joy, with plenty of old buildings and architectural types to spot. However, Selimye Mosque is a must-visit spot ; the architecture here will bring tears to your eyes, such is its beauty, and it’s also famed as one of the most beautiful historic mosques designed by Sinan, the famous architect from Ottoman times.  

Because Edirne was such an important city during the Ottoman Empire, you’ll see countless buildings and historical monuments to check out. The Old Town is undoubtedly a spot to explore, and you can taste local delicacies here too. The waterside area is also beautiful, especially during the spring and summer.  

You should also think about hiring a car and getting out into the local countryside as there are some amazing spots to visit, with colorful fields of sunflowers and grapevines. Iğneada Floodplain Forests National Park and Kurşunlugerme Aqueduct should also be on your visit list.  

It’s possible to visit Edirne at any time of the year; however, remember that December and January are pretty cold, and it can rain quite a lot at this time of year.  

The peak summer months of July and August are pretty hot here, but not as hot as on the south coast, so perhaps June to early July and September and October would be good choices for you.  

How To Get There  

If you are visiting from Bulgaria, you will cross the border (known as Kapıkule on the Turkish side), and then the city center is around half an hour away by road. Check out visa requirements for your country of origin if you plan to do this.  

The other option is to fly into Istanbul and then take the bus to Edirne, which is around 3.5 hours by road.  It makes for a great day trip from Istanbul !

Sailing Turkish Coast - Gumbet, Bodrum, Turkey

Located on the south-west coast, Bodrum has become a glittering destination for the rich and famous over the last few years. Still, even if you’re not swimming in cash, this town is a stunning place to visit during the summer months in particular.

What to See

Bodrum Castle and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology are must-visits in the area, and the views from the castle are stunning.

The promenade is a great spot to enjoy a romantic walk and definitely a top spot for sunsets.

Bodrum is known for its food, and some amazing restaurants are around the area. The most expensive are around the waterfront, but if you head back a little, you’ll find the smaller restaurants that locals visit, offering cheaper prices and more authentic food.

Bitez Beach is the place to go for beach time, with plenty of opportunities to laze on the sand. You can enjoy watersports, and there are many dive spots around Bodrum, with some for beginners, going all the way up to more experienced areas to see some of the most diverse marine life.

While Bodrum is a year-round destination in some ways, it’s more of a summer spot. In the winter months, many of the tourist bars and restaurants will close until the following April, and while some places stay open 12 months of the year, it’s more limited.

The weather is amazing during the summer, but if you’re not into extremely high temperatures and have zero chance of rain, avoid the end of June to the beginning of September. May and the end of September into October are delightful times to visit, with still very warm temperatures but less humidity and fewer crowds.

Bodrum has its own airport, accepting international and domestic flights. The city is also connected to the rest of the country via long-distance buses, and it is only a 3-hour drive from Izmir.

  • Where To Stay In Bodrum
  • Marmaris Vs. Bodrum
  • Best Beach Resorts In Bodrum

14. Canakkale

Day Trips From Istanbul - Try Canakkale Troy Horse Turkey

Many people think that the Battle of Troy took place in Greece, and back in those days, it did. However, that area is the Turkish mainland, known as the city of Canakkale.

If you saw the film Troy with Eric Bana, Orlando Bloom, and Brad Pitt, you’ll have seen the famous wooden Trojan horse – that can be seen in Canakkale. It’s a major pull for tourists, but the area is beautiful regardless of that. Lapped by the waters of the Aegean, Canakkale offers a beach town feel with a more traditional vibe.

The Museum of Troy and the famous Trojan Horse are top spots to visit in Canakkale, but there’s more to it than that. Cimenlik Castle offers impressive views and plenty of history to explore. At the same time, Akbas Cemetery is a somber place to visit and reflect on the bloody history that has marred the area.

If you want beach time, head to Kabatepe Beach or Mitos Beach.

To explore the history of the area, you can visit at any time, but if you want beach time, it’s best to visit between May and October.

How to Get There

Canakkale is a bus ride away from Istanbul, with the journey taking around 3 hours 40 minutes maximum. You can drive by following the E84 and O-6 roads.

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15. Kusadasi

Kusadasi - Aegean Coast Turkey

Kusadasi is a beach resort close to Izmir on the west coast of Turkey, lapped by the warm waters of the Aegean Sea. The two locations are only around an hour’s drive away from one another, which makes it a great place to visit for locals on weekends or public holidays.

Kusadasi is known for its British-style entertainment, and countless large hotels are available for summer fun. However, it also offers a more local vibe if you head away from the main beach area.

Kusadasi Castle is a must-visit, which sits just off the mainland and is connected by a walkway. The views are amazing, and you can learn a lot about the area’s history too.

Of course, you might be after beach time, and in that case, Ladies Beach is the famous spot to head to. This golden sand beach is wide and sweeping; it’s ideal for families.

Families will also enjoy Adaland, a huge water park , or you could head off shopping at Kusadasi Market.

Kusadasi all but closes down during the winter months, and while some things remain open for locals, you won’t get to explore much of the area. It’s best to visit between the end of April and the middle of October when the weather is warm, and everything is open for the summer months. However, avoid July and August if you don’t like extreme heat.

The best way to get to Kusadasi is to fly into Izmir Airport and then take a transfer or bus, which should last for just over one hour.

The Land of Legends in Belek, Turkey

Belek is a beach town in the Antalya region on the Mediterranean coastline. It’s a famous spot for amazing beaches, but it’s also known for golf courses and thermal spas. Belek is quite upmarket and small; however, during the summer months, it gets hectic.

There are many historical sites around Belek, including Aspendos and Perge.

  • Families will enjoy the Land of Legends Theme Park, packed with rides and attractions. There is also a nearby waterpark called Troy.
  • Belek Clock Tower is a famous and well-photographed spot. However, the area is primarily famous for its golf courses and beaches.
  • Carya Golf Course and Cornelia Golf Club are two of the most notable; however, The Montgomerie Maxx Royale Golf Club is another that is extremely exclusive. If you’re into beaches, make sure you head to Kadriye Beach. History lovers should undoubtedly check out Aspendos, with its huge amphitheater.

Belek is a summer destination, and you won’t really get much of an experience if you visit in the winter months. For the best of the weather, I recommend May and June and the end of September into October. The Antalya region’s summer season lasts slightly longer than the rest of the coastline, often stretching into mid-November.

July and August bring scorching temperatures with high humidity and large crowds.

The best way to get to Belek is to fly to Antalya Airport and then take a bus or private transfer. The journey takes around 40 minutes, depending on traffic.

17. Diyarbakir

DIYARBAKIR, TURKEY - Markets

Diyarbakir is a little off the beaten track for most visitors to Turkey, but it’s an area that’s rich in culture and traditions while offering some of the best food in the country.

Located in the southeast, Diyarbakir is the largest city in that region and is famous for its ancient city walls and exceptional natural sights.

The city walls and Diyarbakir Grand Mosque are two of the most famous sights to see, but the Cahit Sıtkı Tarancı Museum is also a great spot to visit.

You can shop around the city and find some great bargains, and also make sure that you try some of the local food as it’s some of the tastiest you’ll find in the whole of Turkey.

Diyarbakir Castle is a great place to explore history and take fantastic photographs, but if you’re craving high-street shopping, head to Forum Diyarbakir or Ninova Park Shopping Centre.

Diyarbakir isn’t a beach town, so it’s best to avoid it during the peak summer months, as the temperatures can get extremely hot without any relief from a sea breeze. The winter months can be very harsh, and snowfall isn’t rare. Therefore, I’d recommend visiting during the spring or fall months, with April and May and October and November as good times to go.

Diyarbakir has its own airport; however, most flights will go via Istanbul. You can fly into either Sabiha Gokcen Airport on the Asian side of Istanbul or the Istanbul Airport on the European side. From there, take a domestic flight to Diyarbakir Airport, which should take around 1 hour and 50 minutes.

Driving or going by bus isn’t the best idea unless you have a lot of time. The journey from Istanbul to Diyarbakir by road can take around 15 hours.

18. Marmaris

Things to do in Marmaris Turkey

Marmaris is a very popular coastal town in the Mugla region . Surrounded by many villages and lots of beautiful countryside, Marmaris is a stunning mixture of blue and green, and during the summer months, it’s extremely busy, often with British and Scandinavian tourists.

However, over the last few years, Marmaris has become more of a domestic tourist spot, which means a more authentic experience if you venture off the main beachfront.

Spending time on the beach is a must-do, and Uzunyali Beach is a long and golden stretch that is backed by countless hotels, bars, and restaurants. Your sun lounger and parasol will be free if you purchase food and drinks from the bar or restaurant to which part of the beach belongs. However, I recommend heading to Icmeler Beach instead. This is just a ten-minute taxi drive away and offers a more chilled-out experience, with a wider beach area and a safer spot for children to roam away from the main road.

You can also take a boat trip around the bay, stopping at several islands and enjoying the stunning scenery. Jeep safaris head into the countryside, allowing you to visit small villages and take in sweeping views. Marmaris Castle is another must-visit, while haggling at the Grand Bazaar will give you plenty of bargains to return home.

During the peak summer months between the middle of June and the middle of September, Marmaris is HOT. There is zero chance of rain, and temperatures often hit 40 degrees or more. However, May and the start of June and the middle of September to the end of October are great times to visit, with still very warm days, cooler evenings, and fewer crowds.

Marmaris is very quiet during the winter months, and while some places do stay open, it’s more of a summer destination if you want the full experience.

You can fly to Dalaman Airport from most European cities during the summer months or from Istanbul on a domestic flight. The transfer time from Dalaman to Marmaris is 1 hour 30 minutes, and you can take the local Havas Bus or a shuttle/private transfer.

  • Marmaris City Guide
  • Marmaris Vs. Antalya

What are the best Turkish cities to see on my first trip to Turkey?

For your first trip to Turkey, some of the best cities to visit are Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, and Pamukkale, each offering unique experiences and historical landmarks.

What famous cities in Turkey should I see?

Some famous cities of Turkey that you should consider visiting are Istanbul, Ankara, Antalya, Izmir, and Bursa, each with its own cultural and historical significance.

How do you pick which cities in Turkey to visit?

When deciding which cities to visit in Turkey, consider your interests, whether you prefer history, beaches, architecture, or natural landscapes. Also, plan your Turkey itinerary based on the duration of your trip.

What cities of Turkey are the most populated?

Istanbul is the most populated city in Turkey, followed by Ankara, Izmir, and Bursa.

What are famous cities in Turkey from the past?

Some famous cities in Turkey from the past include Ephesus, Troy, Pergamon, and Hierapolis, which are ancient historical sites with rich archaeological heritage.

Cities in Turkey to visit with kids?

Antalya, Bodrum, and Side are great cities in Turkey to visit with kids, offering family-friendly attractions and beautiful beaches.

Tourist cities in Turkey that have to be seen at least once?

Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Pamukkale are tourist cities in Turkey that are must-visit destinations, offering unique experiences and breathtaking sights.

What towns in Turkey are the best?

Some of the best towns in Turkey to visit are Alaçatı, Kas, Safranbolu, and Fethiye, known for their charm, history, and natural beauty.

Best cities to visit in Turkey as a family?

Antalya, Izmir, and Bodrum are excellent cities to visit in Turkey as a family, offering various family-friendly activities and accommodations.

Most beautiful cities in Turkey?

Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Fethiye are often considered among the most beautiful cities in Turkey, each boasting unique landscapes and cultural richness.

What are the important cities in Turkey from the Ottoman era?

Istanbul, Bursa, and Edirne are important cities in Turkey from the Ottoman era, playing significant roles in the empire’s history and architecture.

Best cities in Turkey to visit solo?

Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara are great cities in Turkey to visit solo, offering vibrant urban environments, cultural experiences, and plenty of major attractions.

Famous Turkish cities from history?

Ephesus, Troy, and Pergamon are famous Turkish cities from history, known for their archaeological significance and ties to ancient civilizations.

  • The Do’s And Don’ts Of Visiting Turkey
  • Best Places To Visit In Turkey For Every Type Of Traveler
  • Best Beaches To Visit In Turkey
  • Ephesus, UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Why Winter In Turkey Is A Good Idea
  • Honeymoons In Turkey – Where To Go & What To Do

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Best places to visit in Turkey

Whether you want to visit turkey’s cities such as culturally rich istanbul and liberal izmir, or watch hot-air balloons drift over cappadocia — these are the best places to visit.

tourist city of turkey

A vast country of diverse cultures, cuisines and geography, Turkey is the traveller’s dream: cheap, fascinating, safe and hospitable, with something to suit every taste. Whether you want to toast for two weeks on a sunbed, pound Istanbul’s frenetic pavements, ski in the mountains of Anatolia or visit a fairytale city, you will find it here in this unique, often confusing country. Package tourism has hit Turkey big time since the 1980s but you can still find plenty of lesser known nooks, while in recent years it has also become a centre of halal tourism, aimed at the worldwide Muslim market. Although it’s best known as a summer-sun destination, there is also plenty to do in the winter, from a train ride through the snow-locked Anatolian interior to a trip to the desert cities of Mesopotamia. Leave lots of room in your suitcase for the bargains to be found in the bazaars.

Main photo: Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia at dusk (Getty Images)

With its Armenian roots and heavy stone architecture, Turkey’s easternmost city feels more like a Caucasian place than an Anatolian one. Kars is the last stop on the Eastern Express, a train ride from Ankara that takes 24 hours through the stunning wilderness of the Turkish interior. Cabins are basic but clean and comfortable, the restaurant car is decent, and tickets are a bargain. Once you’re there, go and visit the ancient Armenian churches, some of them ruins, others converted into mosques, and climb up to Kars castle for a panoramic view out from the old fortifications.

Where to stay Hotel Katerina Saray, housed in a Russian building commissioned by Tsar Nicholas II

2. Black Sea

Turkey’s northern coast misses out to the Aegean and the Med, but there is a cottage holiday industry here catering to surfers, ecotourists and Gulf Arabs who come to its cool green mountains for an escape from their desert summers. If you are a confident driver, hire a car and take a trip on the sometimes alarming roads along the coast. If not, with a base in Rize, the heart of the tea-growing region, or historic Trabzon or Samsun, you can visit ancient Christian monasteries, verdant mountain villages and lively port towns.

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Where to stay Abant Aden is a boutique eco resort in the green hills of Bolu

A view of the Blue Mosque from the Bosphorus (Getty Images)

3. Istanbul’s Bosphorus strait

Pretty much any form of public transport that takes you from one side of Istanbul to the other will mesmerise you, be it the genteel passenger ferry with its tea stall and open decks, or the dolmus, the stuffed public minibus that weaves hair-raisingly through the traffic over the bridge. The strait is 550m across at its narrowest point, and the vistas from the middle are incredible; taking in palaces, shanty towns, mosques, skyscrapers, ports and islands. Sunset is the best time to see the historic peninsula from the water, when the sun sinks directly behind the domes of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

Where to stay Sumahan on the Water, Istanbul’s boutique seaside hotel

The ski centre at Uludag (Alamy)

Occasionally visible from Istanbul, Uludag mountain, 130 miles south of the metropolis, was the place from where the ancient gods watched the Trojan war. These days, from December to March, it is Turkey’s premier ski destination. There are resorts for all tastes, ranging from boozy all-inclusives to halal resorts. There are 22 lifts on the mountain and runs for all levels, as well as ski courses and equipment hire. It’s a popular place for Istanbullus to spend New Year, and there are music festivals in both winter and summer.

Where to stay Monte Baia Uludag, an all-inclusive in the middle of 9,000m of slopes

Everyone knows the basics — kebab, mezze, baklava — but each region of Turkey proudly claims its own culinary speciality or tradition. You can pretty much stick a pin in a map and choose a good province to eat your way around, but you will definitely be delighted by a foodie trip to Hatay, a southern province whose rich cuisine is influenced by Syrian, Mediterranean and Anatolian cooking. The small region is also a cultural and religious melting pot, packed with ancient sites and a recently revamped archaeological museum.

Where to stay Museum Hotel Antakya, a luxury hotel built into and around the city’s stunning new archaeological museum

Hot air balloons in the Goreme national park, Cappadocia (Getty Images)

6. Cappadocia

This enchanted landscape of rocky outcrops known as fairy chimneys is the perfect place to spend a romantic weekend outdoors. In the Cappadocia national park you can hike, horse ride, and float over the 1,000m high plateau in the middle of Anatolia. This city of cave houses was first settled by Christians in the sixth century, and lives on today with cosy boutique hotels built inside the ancient rocks. Indulge in the classic Cappadocia experience — a dawn hot air balloon ride.

Where to stay Seraphim cave hotel, a historic mansion set over an acre of fairy chimneys

Wine has got good in Turkey over the past five years, largely thanks to a clutch of cutting-edge wineries that are bringing viniculture back to Asia Minor. You can eat, drink and wander the vineyards at several wineries in the Thrace region, an easy day trip from Istanbul. Further south, there are a number of other open vineyards, many growing the Narinca variety, around the Aegean and Mediterranean coast. Several great wine houses back in Istanbul offer extensive local wine lists, served up with cheese and meat platters.

Where to stay Bakucha Vineyard Hotel offers up luxurious cool with local food and – of course – great wine

The Blue Lagoon near Fethiye (Getty Images)

This quaint town is the jumping-off point for some of the most beautiful scenery along the turquoise coast, including the famed Blue Lagoon, a round inlet of crystal seas ringed with perfect sand. You can paraglide from the nearby Babadag mountain to enjoy a bird’s eye vista of the coastline, and take boat trips out to bays that are only accessible from the water. Fethiye is also a start point for the Lycian Way, a 300-mile hiking trail along the coast that is dotted with family-run pensions and cafés, but you can also camp along the way.

Where to stay Ece Sarayi Hotel in Fethiye’s glittering marina

• 14 of the best hotels in Fethiye • Best things to do in Fethiye

The cityscape of Ankara, including the Aslanhane and Kocatepe mosque (Getty Images)

Turkey’s modern capital usually loses out to Istanbul, the old heart of the Ottoman empire and still the biggest city in terms of population and cultural clout. But although it can’t rival Istanbul in history or size, Ankara is still worth a weekend visit. The atmosphere is far calmer, there are elegant parks and broad pavements, and it’s the place to learn more about Turkey’s republican history. The most famous monument is Anitkabir, the mausoleum of Kemal Ataturk, Turkey’s founder and first president, which also incorporates a museum and collection of neo-classical monuments.

Where to stay Hotel Ickale offers classic luxury with a front-row view of Anitkabir

Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar (Getty Images)

10. Istanbul’s ancient shopping centre

The weak lira makes Turkey the place to pick up a bargain, and if you know where to look there is great artisanship going on. Peruse Istanbul’s famous Grand Bazaar — possibly the world’s oldest shopping centre and certainly its most atmospheric — but stick to the antiques and leather sections if you’re actually looking for something to buy. For rugs, lamps and the other classic Turkish souvenirs, seek out smaller shops away from the tourist areas where you’ll find genuine products and lower prices. There are also lots of independent art galleries in upmarket neighbourhoods such as Nisantasi and Kadikoy on the Asian side, selling reasonably priced originals by Turkish, Iranian and Syrian artists.

Where to stay Innova Sultanahmet, opulence a stone’s throw from the Grand Bazaar

Cirali Olympos beach at Antalya (Alamy)

11. Antalya

The gaudy heart of Turkey’s package tourism industry is also the gateway to some of Turkey’s most stunning natural beauty. Grab a hire car and head out of the city to find national parks, protected coastlines and species, and a burgeoning ecotourism sector. Kas, a coastal town 120 miles southwest of Antalya, has become a popular destination for middle-class Turks, who come for the quaint old hotels and the village-y vibe. In Cirali, 40 miles to the south of the city, you’ll find a boho vibe with treehouse hotels and the ancient ruins of Olympos in an emerald green stretch of the coast.

Where to stay Olympos Mountain lodge, a chalet getaway with a luxury-eco vibe

The view from Selcuklu Konagi, a hotel in a sandstone mansion at Mardin

The biggest tourist draw in the lesser visited east of Turkey, Mardin is an ancient Christian city built into a rocky outcrop that overlooks the plains down to the Syrian border. There are sumptuous Orthodox monasteries which are still used for religious worship, alongside Ottoman mosques and charismatic old cave houses. The region is known for its ethnic coexistence, its food and its rich red Syriac wine, best enjoyed on the terrace of one of its old sandstone mansions.

Where to stay Selcuklu Konagi, a 300-year old sandstone mansion

Turkey’s most liberal city — and proudly so — Izmir’s unique vibe is flavoured by its young population, many of them students, its multicultural history and its relationship with the sea. Most of the beautiful old city was sadly destroyed during Turkey’s war of independence in 1922, but with its wide boulevards, palm trees and lively pavements packed with fish restaurants and bars, it’s still an easy place to fall in love with. Come in the spring before the weather gets too stifling and stay in one of the old courtyard houses that have been converted into boutique hotels.

Where to stay Lagora Old Town Hotel, cosy rooms set around a 300-year-old courtyard

The bay of Cleopatra’s Baths, easily reached from Gocek (Getty Images)

In Turkey private sailing is not just for the rich and famous: you can get the private yacht experience on a moderate budget. Gather enough friends and you can affordably hire a gulet — a traditional sail boat — with crew for several days sailing around the coves, islands and beaches of this idyllic part of the Mediterranean coast. Gocek is the hub of Turkey’s gulet tours, but in fishing villages all along the western coast you will find mariners willing to take you out for a few hours, while in other coastal towns and Istanbul you can hire motor boats to take you out for the day.

Where to stay Six can sail in luxury on the Gulet Serenity

Take me there

Inspired to visit Turkey but yet to book your trip? Here are the best packages from Tui Holidays and BA Holidays . Here’s a selection of some of the best Turkey tours from our Times Travel partners . And if you’re still unsure of where you want to go or what type of holiday to book, get in touch here and one of the Designer Travel experts will be in contact to help you arrange your perfect tailor-made break.

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Turkiye has many beautiful cities with stunning views and landscapes. You should definitely go there if you want to see something different!

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  • 1. Istanbul

Istanbul is the capital of civilizations. I mean the city of Istanbul. It has been shown to be an important tourist destination both in Turkey and other countries. Many historical buildings exist there. Visitors from around the world come to see them.

Istanbul is a city in Turkey and is the country’s largest city. It is also the country’s economic, cultural, and historic center. Istanbul has many historical attractions, including Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.

image 1

What is the cheapest time to visit Istanbul?

The cheapest time to visit Istanbul is during the shoulder months of November through March.

How many days in Istanbul are enough?

A lot of tourists come to Istanbul because it is an important city in Turkey. There are many famous places such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahce Sarayi, etc. You can also enjoy shopping, eating delicious foods and visiting museums. However, some of these places may be crowded during peak hours. So, I suggest you spend more than 3 days in Istanbul.

Does Istanbul have a beach?

Beaches are nice places to relax and enjoy the sun. You can go swimming or drink cocktails there. There are many beaches around Istanbul.

Is taxi expensive in Istanbul?

Taxis are cheap. They are all meted out. You pay according to your distance travelled. For example, you pay around 70 TL from Ataturk Airport to Taksim . From Taksim to Sultanahmet costs around 60-65 TL.

Izmir is located in the Mediterranean region of Turkey. Known for being a tourist destination, Izmir welcomes many tourists each year.

image 2

How many days do you need in Izmir?

Izmir is a beautiful city with many things to see and do. Two days isn’t enough time to explore everything the city has to offer, but you’ll get a taste of what there is to see.

Is Izmir worth visiting in winter?

Winter in Izmir gets quite cold, and there is a high chance of rain and snow. Tourists prefer to avoid winter in Izmir.

Is İzmir Turkey in Europe or Asia?

Izmir is located on the west coast of the country, and is part of the larger region of Southeast Europe. It is also a major port city in the Mediterranean.

Antalya is located in the Mediterranean region. It is also the first place tourists think about before visiting. Many historic buildings are found in this city. Antalya, known for its beautiful beaches, takes the first place on the list of tourist destinations.

image 3

What is the best month to visit Antalya?

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Antalya because of its Mediterranean climate. Hot weather makes summer too uncomfortable for tourists. Winter is also cold, but it’s better than summer.

How many days should I spend in Antalya?

Antalya is a city located along the Mediterranean Sea. It’s known as the gateway to Turkey’s southern coast. It’s also a great place to explore the ancient ruins of Pamphylia. Three days is enough time to see everything.

Can you swim in Antalya in May?

Swimming in May is pleasant in Antalyabut swimming isn’t allowed in the sea due to high temperatures. You can swim for a long time but you need to be careful because the water is too hot.

Which part of Antalya is best?

Kaleici is the best place to stay in Antalya. You’ll have plenty of history, and pretty sights to take a look at.

Bursa is a beautiful city located in the Marmarra region of Turkey. It is an industrial city, a commercial city, and a tourist city. Many local and foreign visitors come to see the historic buildings.

image 5

How many days do you need in Bursa?

We stayed two nights in Bursa, and we saw the real city. We passed by many historical spots, but the most interesting place was the Blue Mosque. It was built during the Ottoman empire, and it still looks beautiful today. You could also see another famous building called the Selimiyeh Caddesi, which is a street full of shops and restaurants.

Is there an airport in Bursa Turkey?

Yenişehir Airport is located in the city of Yınışehir in the province of Bursa in Turkey.

Why is the Bursa Turkey important?

Bursa was the first capital city of the Ottoman Empire. This complex contains the graves of sultans and other important people.

It is located in the Aegean region of Turkey. Pamukkale comes to mind first when Denizli is mentioned. Many local and foreign visitors come here. Many local and foreign tourists come throughout the year to see Pamukkale, which has one of the most beautiful views in the world.

image 4

What is Denizli known for?

Denizli is a city in the Aegean Region in Turkey. It is famous for its textiles industry. Tourists come here because of its many beautiful sights.

How do you get to Denizli Turkey?

Kamil Koc runs a bus service from Antalya to İzmir three times per day. He charges more than double the price of the metro, but the journey time is half as long. Meanwhile, Metro Turizm runs buses twice daily from Antalya to Izmir. These buses take longer than the metro, but charge less money and are cheaper. Finally, TCDD runs trains from Çardak (near Antalya) to Denizli once per day. Trains run slower than buses or the metro, but are much cheaper.

What is Denizli Pamukkale?

Pamukkale means “cotton castle” because of the white cotton-like rock formations found there. Thermal springs make the area very attractive to tourists.

How far is Denizli from Istanbul?

the driving distance between Istanbula to Denizli is about 562 km. It will take you about 6 hours and 23 minutes to drive from Istanbul to Denizli.

  • 6. Nevsehir

Nevsehir is a charming province located in the Central Anatolia region. Cappadocia region is very famous. Fairy chimneys and balloon tours here attract many local and foreign tourists.

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When is the best time to go to Nevşehir?

During the summer months, there is less rain, but the temperature stays warm enough to be comfortable. There are fewer tourists during this time, so accommodation costs are lower.

Where is Nevşehir?

A city named after a famous Turkish poet. The city was once called Neapolis and then renamed to Nevşehir. The city is located near the center of central Anatolia. This region is known as the land of fairy chimneys.

  • 7. Gaziantep

Gaziantep, located in our Southeastern Anatolia Region, attracts many tourists throughout the year due to its many historical structures. This city, which is especially famous for its baklava, entered our list from the 9th place.

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  • 8. Canakkale

Canakkale is a wonderful city located in the Marmara region of Turkey. Tourists who come here experience emotional moments. Known for its historical and natural beauties, the city is among the must-see cities of Turkey.

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Aydin is a wonderful city in Turkey’s Aegean Region, with a population of 1,068,260. There are 17 districts connected to the city center. The city has a texture that fascinates everyone with its historical structures and natural beauties. There are many places to visit and see in Aydin. It is a city you should definitely visit when you go on a Aegean Tour.

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While Mugla is located in the Aegean region of Turkey, it also has some of its lands in the Mediterranean Region. Mugla has come to the fore with mostly sea tourism. Many local and foreign tourists flock to Marmaris and Bodrum districts throughout the year. Known as the center of sea, sand and sun, the city entered the list at the 8th place.

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  • 11. Şanlıurfa

Claimed birthplace of the Prophet Abraham and once the Byzantine city of Edessa, Şanlıurfa has always been one of the most interesting stops in Turkey’s southeast.

In the last few years, as the archaeological site of Göbeklitepe has been opened up to tourism, a new wave of visitors have also flocked here. These Neolithic monoliths, sitting just on the city outskirts, were anointed with UNESCO World Heritage status in 2019.

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In the city center itself, a massive and thoroughly contemporary new Archaeological Museum provides one of Turkey’s most fascinating museum experiences, thoroughly complementing the site by devoting a large swath of its space to exhibits from both Göbeklitepe and the Şanlıurfa region’s importance in early human history.

Even without these two recent major tourist attractions though, Şanlıurfa has plenty for visitors to unpack.

The old town district’s bazaar is a busy muddle, where traditional craft workshops and market produce stalls huddle amid skinny alleys and where the courtyards of old caravanserais are now put to use as atmospheric open-air cafés.

Leading out from the old town district, at the city’s very heart, is leafy Gölbaşı park. This major pilgrimage area plays center stage in the city’s local lore, with historic mosques built on sites important to the story of Abraham, and fish ponds filled with sacred carp.

The ornately tiled Mevlana Museum, home to the tomb of 13th-century Sufi poet and preacher Mevlana Celaleddin Rumi, has made this old Seljuk capital a major stop for any traveler heading east from the Mediterranean coast.

Most visitors time their trip to watch a performance by the whirling dervishes (twice weekly in summer; once a week the rest of year) in the birthplace of this Mevlevi Sufi sect.

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Konya’s Sufi connection has made its tourism name but there are plenty of things to do beyond the dervishes.

The central city is crammed with the surviving mosques and monuments from Konya’s grand era as Seljuk capital in the 13th century. Some, such as the Karatay Medresesi, have been painstakingly restored and turned into interesting museums that highlight the artistic accomplishments of the Seljuk era.

Outside the city itself, the stark surrounding plains are home to a host of attractions that will convince history-minded travelers to linger another night in town.

Top of the list is the settlement mound of Çatalhöyük, where archaeologists unearthed one of the world’s largest Neolithic villages.

  • 13. Fethiye

With its spectacular harbor front setting, this small city of 100,000 is one of Turkey’s most popular places to visit along the Mediterranean coast.

Fethiye is a major yachting destination. There are bundles of sailing activities on offer, from daily group boat tours to multi-day private yacht hire.

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The harbor here is also the departure point for Turkey’s most famous sailing itinerary: the three-night Blue Cruise, which takes in some of the best coastal panoramas along this stretch of coast.

Although Fethiye is primarily all about the water, its location is also perfect for launching out to explore the vast amount of ruins hidden in the surrounding lush forested hills.

The Classical-era Lycian ruins of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Xanthos and Letoön are just two of the major archaeological sites within day-tripping distance.

If, though, you are simply focused on sun and sea, this is the nearest city base for the famed beaches of Ölüdeniz, with its paragliding and boat trips, and Butterfly Valley.

  • 14. Eskişehir

This major university center is all about café culture, gardens, and art.

Full of youthful energy and buzz, Eskişehir is a big hit with local families who day trip here on summer weekends for gondola rides on the river, picnicking in the parks, and strolling the small old town district of Odunpazarı .

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Odunpazarı is also where you’ll find Eskişehir’s newest attraction. The OMM (Odunpazarı Modern Museum) art gallery holds a permanent collection of modern art, comprising sculpture and installations as well as paintings, and hosts temporary exhibitions of big names in the contemporary art scene. It’s the most important private art gallery outside of Istanbul.

Eskişehir used to be bypassed by many travelers, but the new high-speed train lines connecting Istanbul with Ankara and Konya have made Eskişehir (a station on both lines) a popular stop off for travelers heading inland.

  • 15. Antakya

Antakya (often called Hatay locally) is ancient Antioch, the early center of Christianity where both St. Paul and St. Peter preached to the first converts.

The labyrinthine old town area, with its cobblestone alleys, old Ottoman houses, markets, and a handful of churches, is perfect for aimless strolling. Antakya’s other major attractions are just on the outskirts of the center.

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The Roman and Byzantine mosaic art collection at Hatay Archaeology Museum is only rivaled by Gaziantep in its world-class status. Beyond the mosaics, the museum also exhibits fascinating Bronze Age artifacts.

On the road to the museum, you pass both the Church of St. Peter (one of the oldest churches in the world) and the new Museum Hotel (opened in 2019), which was built over and around the world’s largest intact mosaic floor ever found.

Nudging up against the borders with both Bulgaria and Greece, Edirne is the major city of Thrace (the tiny corner of northwest Turkey that sits within Europe).

Once the Roman city of Adrianople and later capital of the Ottoman Empire (Mehmet II launched his conquest of Constantinople from here), Edirne has a long and grand history that can be glimpsed in the preserved imperial architecture that still dots its central city.

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The major tourist attraction in town is Edirne’s Selimiye Mosque, regarded as the finest example of mosque architecture built by the famed Ottoman architect Sinan.

Any visitor interested in history, though, will find plenty of other things to do in Edirne, with a glut of other mosques and Ottoman-era monuments to explore.

Edirne’s location makes it a convenient stop on the overland route between Istanbul and Bulgaria or northern Greece.

Amasya sits squeezed between high cliffs, with the Yeşilirmak River winding through its center.

Although a laid-back, small city today, Amasya was once capital of the Kingdom of Pontus and later, during the city’s Roman era, it was the birthplace of Strabo, the famed Roman geographer.

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There may be few big tourist attractions or major things to do within town, but Amasya makes up for that fact by providing plenty of ambience and opportunities to soak up the views.

Stroll the riverfront where a clutch of preserved Ottoman wooden mansions line the northern bank, with the tombs of Pontic kings cut into the looming cliff above, and then head up to the scant remains of the castle, perched on the cliff summit for vistas across the valley.

In the central city itself, don’t miss visiting the 15th-century Sultan Beyazıt II Mosque with an interior that rivals Istanbul’s imperial mosques for grandeur.

Kars is the closest base to the ruins of Ani, one the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Most travelers heading to the archaeological site stay overnight in Kars. Kars’ unique style is due to the city being occupied by Russia during the 19th century. The city was built using stone cut into the shape of buildings. The roads were laid out in a grid pattern.

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The city’s northern corner is home to a handful of historic buildings. Head first to the Kümbet Mosque, which was originally the 10th-century Armenian Church of the Apostles and then hike up to Kars Castle for the views across the town and surrounding stark countryside.

Çeşme is an ancient city located in Turkey. It is known as a tourist destination because of its castle and beaches. There are many archaeological finds around the city.

Çeşme is a Turkish resort town west of Izmir, on the Aegean Sea. Overlooking the harbor is Çeşme Castle, a restored military fortress. It now houses the Çeşme Archaeology Museum, with displays of marble busts, metal coins and artifacts from nearby excavations. On the east side of the Çeşme peninsula is sandy Ilica Beach, with warm thermal sulfur springs. Around Çeşme are clear waters and accessible dive sites.

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Once a cozy fishing village of only a few thousand people, Bodrum has experienced a renaissance in the last half century that has transformed this once-sleepy community into one of Turkey’s most popular vacation hotspots. Writers, intellectuals, artists and musicians have long called this Aegean town home, or second-home, attracting a vibrant cultural scene paralleled only by the town’s nightlife. Windswept beaches and glittering waters provide the backdrop to the perfect beach getaway.

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Journal of Nomads

The 13 best places to visit in Turkey

Where should I travel to in Turkey? Where are the best places to visit in Turkey? We have compiled a list of the best places to visit in Turkey to help ensure that you have the most incredible trip.

We have also included some extra information regarding the best activities to try whilst in Turkey, as well as listing some of the best places to stay in Turkey to help you plan your time in this unique country a little bit easier, see it as your very own Turkey travel guide and let us help you create the trip of a lifetime!

From sun-drenched beaches to lush, forest-covered mountains, vibrant and bustling cities to ancient ruins, Turkey is a country with an incredible amount to offer.

The country boasts a startling 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites with so many more historical places and sites set to blow your socks off in absolute awe and wonder. A country dripping in history and culture, Turkey has a complete array of stunningly beautiful places awaiting you.

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Pamukkale - Journal of Nomads

We spent nine months in Turkey so we had plenty of time to visit various locations.

Some of them were mentioned in tourist guides, others were recommended by locals or we discovered them during one of our hitchhiking trips . They all marked us in a very special way and we would love to share those places with you.

Reading Tip: How much does it cost to travel to Turkey?

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I’ll receive a small commission, at no extra costs for you. This way you’re helping me run this website and writing more informative and awesome guides like this. I only recommend products and services that I like and trust. Thank you!

Turkey Travel Essentials & Resources

  • Turkey Travel Guide: 10 useful things to know before you go
  • Where to go: 13 Beautiful Places to visit in Turkey
  • Travel Costs : Turkey Budget Guide
  • Tours & Experiences: City tours, guided day trips, multiple-day tours
  • Visa: Visa-free or e-visa for most passports – Check the required Turkey travel documents!
  • Getting there: Search for flights to Istanbul, Ankara, Antalya and Izmir in Turkey
  • Where to stay : Find a room in hotels, hostels or guesthouses
  • Travel Insurance: Choose the best travel insurance for Turkey
  • Getting around : Rent a car in Turkey or travel by bus, train or taxi

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Where should I travel to in Turkey – The 13 best places to visit in Turkey

1. Istanbul

Top things to see and do in Istanbul

It’s most likely that you’ll begin your trip in the city of Istanbul , a city that straddles east and west, divided by the Bosphorus Strait that splits the city into two separate parts.

The only city in the world that can lay claim to residence on two different continents (Asia and Europe), Istanbul really is one of the most unique cities in the world. With over 2500 years of traditions, history and incredible landmarks, this city is a complete cultural melting pot.

Istanbul has been the capital of four empires and the remains of each of these empires can still be seen today. Many buildings and landmarks from Istanbul’s opulent past remain intact today and the cultural heritage of the city is highly impressive.

Go and marvel at the beautiful Hagia Sophia , a Byzantine structure that was originally built as a Christian church in the 6th century CE (532–537) under the direction of the Byzantine emperor Justinian I. In later centuries it then became a mosque, a museum, and then a mosque once more.

This building reflects the religious changes that have happened over the centuries, boasting both inscriptions of Islam as well as lavish mosaics of Christianity.

best things to see in Istanbul

The Blue Mosque is another of the city’s world-renowned landmarks, named famously after the blue tiles that surround its walls. Built between 1609 and 1616, this building still holds high importance to the history of the Ottoman Empire.

Daily prayer services still occur in the mosque so why not go and spend some time there, say a prayer and embrace the architectural beauty.

Blue mosque in Istanbul - Best sites to visit in Istanbul

Other top tourist attractions are the Grand Bazaar , the largest covered market in the world, the Topkapi Palace and museum where you can view the imperial collections of the Ottoman Empire and then head up the Galata Tower to take in the view of the cityscape.

things to do in Istanbul

Whether it’s the only destination on your list, Istanbul really is one of the best cities to visit in Turkey.

Reading Tip: Top 17 Things to do in Istanbul – Complete Istanbul City Guide

How to get to Istanbul

The easiest way to get to Istanbul is by plane. Turkish Airlines along with other major airlines have regular daily flights to this remarkable city.

Places to stay in Istanbul

There are hundreds of lovely, well-priced places to stay when visiting Istanbul. We have included a few hotels and guesthouses for less than €50/night below:

  • Atlantis Royal Hotel ( check price and availability here )
  • Sirkeci Ersu Hotel & SPA ( check price and availability here )
  • Ahmet Efendi Konağı ( check price and availability here )

Things to do in Istanbul

We would highly recommend going on a walking tour and you can take one for FREE through Old Istanbul.

You’ll learn all about the incredible history of Istanbul and also be guided to a number of the city’s beautiful landmarks, including the ones we have mentioned above.

Read: T o p 1 7 Things to do in Istanbul

2. Bursa / Cumalikizik

Bursa - Best non-touristic cities to visit in Turkey - Journal of Nomads

Cumalikizik is a UNESCO World Heritage town, 20 minutes from Bursa.

Perched in the hills on the foot of the Uludag Mountain, the cobblestoned and narrow streets of this 700-year-old village remain largely untouched and have been well preserved.

This little village is another one of the many well-visited tourist places in Turkey, with streets lined with traditional houses, the higher you walk up, the less crowded it becomes.

The friendly reputation of the local villagers, some of who have turned their homes into family-run eateries, precedes them and draws you into this charming Ottoman hamlet, offering you a peek into the traditional Turkish way of life.

Bursa, known as ‘Yeşil Bursa’ (Green Bursa) due to the high number of parks and mountains surrounding it, was also once the capital of the Ottoman state.

How to get to Bursa

From Istanbul- A bus will take you 3 1/2-hours and cost you 15TL, just over €1.(Nilüfer Turizm/bus company) (tel. 0224/444-0099)

Things to do around Bursa

On the west side of Bursa, in the village of Çekirge are natural thermal spring baths whose fame has spread throughout the East and the source of all of them is from Mt. Olympus.

Reading Tip: 10 Useful Things to Know before Visiting Turkey

The 13 best places to visit in Turkey

History lovers gather round, you do not want to miss out on visiting the ruins of Ephesus and the surrounding area, which was once an ancient Greek city. It’s not only the biggest area of excavation in the world but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Located just outside of Selçuk, it was once considered to be the most important Greek city and trading center in the Mediterranean region.

Few ancient landmarks stand quite as impressive as the ruins of this ancient city. Immerse yourself in the ancient history of this place, although thousands of years have gone by, it is nearly impossible not to be impressed by the history and remains of this once bustling city.

It’s also worth visiting the Temple of Artemis, Temple of Hadrian, and the Basilica of St John whilst in the area.

Ephesus is open to visitors every day of the week, and visiting hours may vary depending on the summer and winter seasons. The cost to enter the ruins is 60 TL (Turkish Lira) or about $10.

How to get to Ephesus

You can get to Ephesus from Selçuk by dolmuş (minibus) or taxi. They run every half hour between Selçuk bus station and the lower entrance of Ephesus archaeological site and the journey will take about 5-10 mins.

4. Pamukkale

what is the best time to visit Pamukkale

The mineral white forests of petrified water, series of terraced warm pools of water and the numerous waterfalls that connect all these pools together make for a pretty dream-like landscape in Southwestern Turkey.

The terraces have been created from layers of travertine, white sediment that has been deposited by the hot springs that over time have solidified and become solid.

Platforms, cliffs, and terraces have been formed, entirely made up of this sediment, and you can understand why this place is called ‘cotton castle’ in Turkish, as they appear together as some kind of giant, white castle.

What to expect in Pamukkale?

The temperature of the water that flows from the springs is roughly between 35 °C (95° F) to 100 °C (212° F) and you can bathe in mostly all of the 17 springs. They have been drawing visitors since the second century BC and it’s been said that Cleopatra herself bathed in these very pools.

What to see in Pamukkale

Another one of Turkey’s impressive World Heritage Sites, this open-air spa makes for a completely unique and ancient UNESCO experience.

Reading Tip: Things to do in Pamukkale – The Complete Traveler’s Guide to Pamukkale

How to get to Pamukkale

From Istanbul: There are direct flights from Istanbul to Denizli Çardak, the nearest airport to Pamukkale. The cheapest option is then to go by shuttle bus from the airport to Denizli city’s bus station and catch a dolmuş that departs every 15-20 minutes to Pamukkale.

From Selçuk: Take a train to Denizli Çardak and then from there, take a dolmuş the same as mentioned above.

From Cappadocia: Take an overnight bus. They usually depart around 8PM and arrive the next day at 6AM.

Where to stay in Pamukkale

Read The Complete Guide to Pamukkale for our selection of best places to stay whilst visiting Pamukkale.

5. Gelemis /Patara

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Lycian Way - Patara - Journal of Nomads

Gelemis is a small village completely off the beaten path and untouched by mass tourism. It’s set right at the edge of the coastline in the foothills of the gorgeous Taurus mountains and it’s the perfect place for expat artists in need of some inspiration.

Life here is organized around agriculture and apiculture (beekeeping). People grow all kinds of fruits and vegetables and the landscape is filled with small clusters of beehives.

Next to the village of Gelemis lies an 18km long stretch of beach that can be described not only as one of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches in all of the Mediterranean but is also the second most important nesting site in Turkey for the endangered loggerhead sea turtles.

Known as Patara, this beach and the surrounding area provide you with an ideal swimming and camping destination, founded by the Lycians during the Roman Empire, it also used to be one of the most important cities and seaports on the Turkish Riviera.

Patara happens to also be the birthplace of Saint Nicholas who was also known as Nikolaos of Myra, a 4th-century Christian saint who would later give rise to the traditional model of Santa Claus. You read that right, the infamous Mr Claus.

There are no tour companies that operate in Patara and everything is local or independent from the pensions where you can stay to the eateries that are run by local families, the only cafe on the beach is run by the local authority with the profits being put back in to support the local area.

The beach remains largely untouched by commercial development due to the city’s few surviving buildings, temples, bathhouses, colonnaded streets and theatre which are incredibly interesting to explore.

Best places to visit in Turkey - Lycian Way - Patara - Journal of Nomads

Patara is also the stage for a unique cultural event that we would recommend to everyone to attend; the annual Nomadic Walk.

Every year, the people of Patara organize a 10 km walk from Delikemer to Patara where the hikers follow the old Roman aqueducts which were used to bring water from Islamlar, a small town in the mountains, to Patara.

This walk also forms part of a 509 km footpath known as the Lycian Way. If you would like to know more about this event and maybe participate, have a look at our article In the Footsteps of the Nomadic Tribes .

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Lycian Way - Patara - Journal of Nomads

How to get to Patara

Patara is 230 km South-West of Antalya, the easiest way to get there is to follow the coastal highway (highway D4000) through Kaş and Kalkan.

If you’re not in the mood to see the coast and rather see gorgeous mountain landscapes, there is an alternate route that follows highway 3500.

If you’re coming from Fethiye, follow the highway D4000 south for 73 km.

Where to stay in Patara

Hotels and pensions for less than €50/night:

  • St. Nicholas Pension ( check price and availability here )
  • Flower Hotel Patara ( check price and availability here )

6. Myra (Demre)

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Myra - Journal of Nomads

Myra was an ancient Lycian town that is now known as Demre.  Most of this ancient city has disappeared and all that remains today are its incredible ruins – an enormous Roman theatre, ancient Roman baths, and two huge necropolises that are carved in the vertical rock cliffs.

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Myra - Journal of Nomads

If you want to experience one of the most unique places to visit in Turkey, Myra ticks that box. 

The tomb of Saint Nicholas is also housed in the center of Demren at St. Nicholas Church, an ancient East Roman basilica church, built in 520 AD. I

t is noted for its remarkable wall frescos, architectural and religious significance and after a nearby river changed its course, the church was filled with silt and was buried but the frescoes remained intact which is why it remains to be one of many great places in Turkey to visit today.

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Demre - St Nicholas - Journal of Nomads

If you like to see more of this area, check out our video Santa’s Tomb .

How to get to Myra

Demre is located almost halfway between Patara and Antalya. To visit this city just follow the coastal highway (D4000) east of Patara for 87 km.

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey -Olympos - Journal of Nomads

The bohemian dream of Olympos is nestled amongst lush, pine forests and is the backdrop of Antalya province’s Mediterranean coast.

This is a truly spectacular place, where overgrown Lycian ruins sit within the surrounding forests, this is the place to come if you’re seeking some peaceful tranquility.

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey -Olympos - Journal of Nomads

This ancient area is under protection which means no luxury hotel or resorts have permission to build, instead you have the opportunity to strip things back to nature and spend a night staying in one of the many Kadir Tree Houses and little wooden shacks.

Olympos is also one of the nesting sites for Caretta Caretta loggerhead sea turtles along Turkey’s Southern coast and it’s important to be respectful and follow the guidelines so as to not disturb their ancient nesting cycle during your stay. 

How to get to Olympos

Olympos is located 77 km north of Demre following the coastal highway (D4000).

As you will approach Olympos the highway will start going through a very high mountain pass. If you have time we would definitely recommend stopping to enjoy the view before continuing to the ruins, it’s totally worth it.

Where to stay in Olympos

The most famous way to spend your night here is in one of the many different tree houses scattered throughout the area. Below we have listed a few other accommodation options for you to choose from:

  • Kadir’s Tree Houses (Kadir’in Yeri) are the most famous in Olympos and these were built by the founder of this place Kadir Kaya, 31 years ago. Check here for availability .
  • Bayrams Tree Houses sit much closer to the beach in a quieter location. Nestled next to orange and pomegranate trees, there is also a lounge and bar area, the ideal place to sit around an open fire in the evening with a cold beer. Check here for availability .

Things to do in Olympos

If you’re up for a small mountain climb, Mount Chimaera is worth visiting whilst you are in Olympus.

BBest places to visit in Turkey -Olympos - Chimaera - Journal of Nomads

It’s about a one-hour walk to see Yanartaş or alternatively, you can hop on a service bus or organize a car from your accommodation.

The climb will take you another half an hour approx to reach the top of this small mountain but it’s so worth it to make it to the top where you’ll witness a very unusual sight.

Yanartaş are flames that burn on their own and never go out made from a combination of natural gases that emerge like flames from the rock, burning day and night as they enter into contact with the air.

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey -Olympos - Chimaera- Journal of Nomads

If you head to the top, just before sunset, you’ll see the flames at their most spectacular.

There are many areas around Olympos that are great for rock climbing. One of the most well-known areas for climbing is at Kadir’s Tree Houses where you will be able to find all the necessary supplies and gear for your level.

8. The Blue LAgoon / Ölüdeniz

The 13 best places to visit in Turkey

The Blue Lagoon in Ölüdeniz is on the list of Turkey’s top UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The gorgeously vibrant, turquoise water within the lagoon boasts a tremendous array of different shades of blue great with a thin finger of beautiful white sand that curves around the water.

Add in a gorgeous mountainous backdrop and you’ll understand why this beach is considered to be one of the most beautiful places in Turkey and is one of the most photographed too.

For this reason, it’s important to note that it can be extremely busy with visitors.

If you’re after a more spacious way to view this site, why not consider taking to the skies and trying your hand at paragliding, soaking up the spectacular views from the air.

How to get to the Blue Lagoon

You can catch a bus from nearby Antalya, a resort town on the south coast that will take about 3.5 hours and cost you around €6.

9. The Lycian way / Fethiye to Antalya

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Lycian Way - Patara - Journal of Nomads

Located on Turkey’s Tekke Peninsula, known historically as Lycia, the Lycian Way is a footpath that spans across 540 km of mountains, coastline, and valleys from Fethiye to Antalya.

A well-marked-out path takes you past many major archaeological sites, stretches of beautiful coastline and gorgeously lush pine forests and hiking the entire way would take you around a month to complete.

If you decide to walk this path, the route will take you past historical sites from the Greek culture and Roman Empires that date back to 8 BC, passing through traditional villages that seem untouched by tourism where you can find food and other supplies.

Your accommodation options whilst on this path are guest houses, village homes and basic B&Bs although, we might suggest camping as a fantastic option and depending on your location, it can be the easiest option whilst walking the Way.

It is possible to walk only parts of the way and depending on your hiking experience, you could choose the eastern part for the tougher hike especially close to Fethiye are particularly tricky.

The western part would be more suitable if you are not as experienced as this is the easier section of the way.

The best time to go would be either in the Spring March-May or in the Autumn months of September/October, that way you’re not walking in the sizzling summer heat and avoid the larger crowds of tourists.

Experiencing walking along the Lycian Way is a really special way to take in so many of the sights to see in Turkey.

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Lycian Way - Patara - Journal of Nomads

Reading Tip: Cycling in Turkey – 3 Cycling Routes

How to get to the Lycian Way

The Lycian way starts in Olu Deniz, about 2 hours from the Dalaman airport and finishes in Antalya but you can find numerous access points to this path along the coast.

Since it connects the archaeological sites of Myra and Olympos, it is also very easy to access the path from these two locations.

Where to stay on the Lycian Way

We have included a link to a great website that lists a whole heap of places to stay whilst walking the Lycian Way. Find it here .

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Konya - Journal of Nomads

From incredible architecture, great food and some of the oldest mosques in Turkey, this is a brilliant city for you to load up on culture.

Konya is the Islamic capital of Turkey and home of the world-famous spiritual poet Rumi, known to the Turkish people as ‘Melvana’ – (the sainted one), and his tomb is kept within The Mevlana museum.

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Konya -Rumi - Journal of Nomads

This mystic and Sufi saint loved all religions and followed his own religion which was love and his followers are known as the Whirling Dervishes.

The whirling is a form of Sama, a physically active meditation and is also called ‘Sufi spinning’. The Dervishes listen to music, whilst focusing on God and spin their body in repetitive circles, which is a symbolic imitation of the planets orbiting the sun.

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Konya - Dancing Dervishes - Journal of Nomads

This spinning dance represents a spiritual journey to enlightenment in which the Dervishes aim to reach the source of all ‘perfection’.

They seek through abandoning their egos and personal desires to find truth and cultivate inner peace so in turn, they can foster peace and world harmony.

Known as the heart and soul city, no trip would be complete without a visit to Konya, one of Turkey’s best cities.

How to get to Konya

From Istanbul or Ankara, it’s faster, more comfortable, and not much more expensive to take the high-speed train. Two trains leave daily between Istanbul and Konya, stopping at Eskişehir where you will have to change trains, taking in total about 4.5 hours.

If traveling by plane, Turkish Airlines has several flights each day between Istanbul and Konya.

Driving or hitchhiking – If you are coming from Antalya, follow the highway D4000 until you are in Kizilagac. From there take the D695 north and follow it until it becomes the highway D696. Continue following this road and you will arrive in Konya. The total distance from Antalya to Konya is 304 km.

Where to stay in Konya

Below, we’ve listed a few choices for accommodation whilst visiting Konya. Hotels and guesthouses for less than €50/night:

  • Araf Hotel: see here for availability
  • Rumi Hotel: check here for availability
  • Bera Konya Hotel: see here for availability and prices

Things to do in Konya

If you want to truly experience the essence of Konya, take yourself to see an authentic Sema ceremony and watch the Whirling Dervishes perform.

The ceremony is a free event that takes place every Saturday night at 7 pm at the Mevlana Cultural Center and we would advise that you head there early to get yourself a seat with a great view.

Each show lasts about two hours and it’s a wonder to see.

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Konya - Dancing Dervishes - Journal of Nomads

11. Cappadocia

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Cappadocia - Journal of Nomads

High on the Anatolian plateau, Cappadocia’s curious landscape resembles that of a fantasy world.

The rugged mountains, vast plains, and the formation of its valleys and landscape have been shaped by the frequent eruption of three volcanoes and created from layers of deposits of lava, volcanic ash and basalt.

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Cappadocia - Journal of Nomads

Earthquakes and effects of erosion have contributed to the creation of Cappadocia’s famous ‘fairy chimneys, tall cone-shaped honey-colored rocks that have been slowly eroded into stunning sculptural forms that resemble minarets.

The history of Cappadocia is as rich and remarkable as its landscape. The first dwellers in this region were troglodytes or cave dwellers during the Bronze Age who carved out cave houses, churches and monasteries from this soft volcanic rock, creating settlements underground.

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Cappadocia - Journal of Nomads

The cave houses were then used later on in history by Christians fleeing Roman persecution. Nowadays, locals in Cappadocia now inhabit many of these cave houses and treat them as their permanent homes.

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Cappadocia - Journal of Nomads

Cappadocia is one of the best places in Turkey for families to meet in a unique tourist environment, a place for you to make some memories of a lifetime.

If you thought that the views were spectacular from the ground, imagine the mesmerizing view from 3200 feet above the ground in a hot air balloon?

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Cappadocia - Journal of Nomads

Watch more about Konya and Cappadocia in the video Dancing Dervishes and Hot Air Balloons .

How to get to Cappadocia

Turkish Airlines has daily flights from Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir to the Nevşehir airport. From there, there is a bus that leaves from the airport at the top of every hour called the Tüzköy minibus.

This bus will take you to Gülşehir and from there you can catch a local city bus into the main city center of Cappadocia.

Where to stay in Cappadocia

  • BUDGET: Old Town Stone House ( see availability here )
  • MID RANGE: Lunar Cappadocia Hotel ( check prices here )
  • LUXURY: Sultan Cave Suites ( find more info here )

What to do in Cappadocia

Voted as one of the best destinations in the world for hot air ballooning, Cappadocia attracts people from all over the world who want to set sail up into the clouds and take in the wonder of its incredible landscape from the sky.

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Cappadocia - Journal of Nomads

If you choose a sunrise trip, you will be taken up for one hour over the fairy chimneys, orchards, and vineyards.

It’s wise to reserve your ticket ahead of time during the high season and the cheapest tickets for a standard flight are sold for about €90.

12. Sumela Monastery, Trabzon

Trabzon - Best non-touristic cities to visit in Turkey - Journal of Nomads

Nestled in a cliff, 1200 meters above sea level is where you’ll find the Sumela Monastery in Trabzon province on Turkey’s Black Sea coast, which is said to be more than a thousand years old.

This Greek Orthodox Ministry, built in the year 346 AD holds both cultural and historical significance and is a prominent tourist attraction.

Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, built to house an icon of her that was believed to possess miraculous properties. Built high into a cliff, access to the building is via a steep path through the forest and then via a narrow stairway.

The principal areas of the Monastery are the Rock Church, kitchens, students’ rooms, a library, several chapels as well as a holy water fountain.

Both the inside and outside walls of the church have been covered in intricate and detailed frescoes that depict biblical scenes from the lives of the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ.

The murals of the chapel were painted in three different periods, on three different levels with most of those that are visible today dating back to the 18th century.

In 2000 the Monastery was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List and has been closed to the public since 2015 for safety reasons, however, the site was partially reopened in July 2020 after the completion of major restoration works.

This part of North-Eastern Turkey is quite unique with nearby Trabzon not only lying close to the Black Sea but also the epic Pontic Mountains passing through it, it’s an area of Turkey that has been sprinkled with bouts of silence and a lot of beauty.

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Hostel - Bageni Pansyon - Journal of Nomads

How to get to the SUmela Monastery in Trabzon

From Trabzon, you should be able to get a dolmuş (pronounced dol-moosh) direct from the east-bound dolmus station located along the highway.

They leave twice a day at 11 AM and 2 PM in the summer.

Reading Tip: 10 Best Non-Touristy Cities to visit in Turkey

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Ayder - Journal of Nomads

Artvin sits by the Black Sea, on the border of Georgia, and is yet another one of the beautiful places to visit in Turkey.

Surrounded by mountains, some reaching 4,000 metres, it’s dreamlike landscape carved by the Çoruh River (one of the longest-running in Turkey) is full of rock formations, steep valleys and forests of tall pine trees that will completely mesmerize all who visit.

This is a truly breathtaking place and among the wonders that everyone should see at least once.

This part of Turkey is also the area where you can find the Laz people. It’s a culture that has its very own language, called Laz that has been classified by UNESCO as an endangered language.

The Laz people have their own traditions, one of them involves the Tulum, a form of Turkish bagpipe that people dance the Horon to.

I visited this gorgeous place and met Evrim, the owner of a hostel there (see below) who is a descendant of the Laz people of Turkey.

I also had the honor of meeting Evrim’s father who told me all about the history and culture of the Laz people, recited some beautiful Laz poems and taught me some Laz words too.

How to get to Artvin

The fastest and easiest way to get there from Istanbul is to follow the highways E80 and E70 east. The road is long (1219 km) but you will see some of the most scenic landscapes that we have seen in Turkey.

You can fly from Istanbul to Erzurum (1hr 45 flight) and then from there you can take a bus (3h 36m bus) from Erzurum Otogar that leaves 5 times a day.

Where to stay in Artvin

Bageni Pansiyon is the perfect place to spend some time day gazing at the green valley below and the ocean in the distance.

Awesome places to hitchhike in Turkey - Hostel - Bageni Pansyon - Journal of Nomads

Things to do in Artvin

The most popular reason for visiting and exploring this area is for its natural beauty and the various trekking and hiking opportunities on offer.

Mount Kaçkar is one of the highest mountains in Turkey and is the most popular trekking route.

The Trans-Kaçkar route that takes you through Yusufeli Yaylalar Village to Rize – Çamlıhemşin Ayder Highlands is another option for avid trekkers and mountaineering groups.

Visitors also travel here to try out some of the more adventurous activities to do in Turkey such as skiing, rafting and canoeing.

We really hope this article has helped you plan for your trip and that you’re no longer asking the question of, ‘where should I travel to in Turkey?’.

We have tried our very hardest to cover what we believe to be the best places to visit in Turkey and the top things to do whilst you are there. Wishing you the most magical of trips!

Don’t forget to check out the articles below, in which we tell you everything you need to know about this beautiful destination!

MORE TURKEY TRAVEL POSTS

  • The 13 beautiful and unique places to visit in Turkey
  • 10 best non-touristy cities to visit in Turkey
  • 10 useful things to know to visit Turkey
  • The complete guide to the miraculous pools of Pamukkale
  • Top 17 things to do in Istanbul
  • Backpacking in Turkey on a budget – How much does it cost to travel in Turkey
  • Is Turkey dangerous? This is what we’ve learned so far!
  • In the Footsteps of the Nomadic Tribes
  • 25 photos that will trigger your wanderlust for Turkey
  • What happens when you overstay your visa in Turkey
  • One year of hitchhiking – the good, the bad, and the untold stories. Part 2: Turkey
  • Cycling in Turkey: 3 great routes

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25 thoughts on “the 13 best places to visit in turkey”.

Thanks ! Was a great Post !

Thank you Kevin!

Hey! Loved the post and Im planning my trip. Whats the name and place of the hostel in Rize/Artvin?

Hi Hibbe, thank you so much! The name of this hostel is Bageni Pansiyon and it’s located in the mountains near the village of Findikli. You can find more info and the exact address of this hostel here: https://www.facebook.com/bagenipansiyon/

I came here as an aupair in 2017 and it is totally different than I thought. Turkey is a lovely country and thanks aupairinturkey, the agency in Turkey I had a chance to discover this country. You sohuld all visit here and people are so friendly

Thank you! We are visiting Turkey next week and want to avoid all of the conflict. We have based our trip on your itinerary and are looking forward to it (not hitting everything).

Hi Laura, very happy to hear you used this post as inspiration for your trip! Which places are you going to visit? Have a great trip and enjoy!!

Living in Turkey, this post put a big smile on my face. You’ve visited a diverse range of places and had some great experiences. We have a lot of dots to visit on our map of Turkey. The list keeps getting longer, regardless of how many places we visit. So when I read your post about overstaying on your visa, I could easily relate how that happened. Wishing you happy travels to come!

Hi Pascale! Your comment puts a smile on my face 🙂 Turkey has so many beautiful places and has so many varied experiences to offer! We still want to return to visit some places and regions that we had to skip last time. I can imagine that your list is only growing 😀 Where in Turkey are you based? Wishing you a great time exploring the country and ticking of your list 😀 Warm wishes!

Hi Cynthia, thank you for your kind wishes. We’re currently based in Faralya, which is near Fethiye. We do have plans to move around though!

thanks for the advice. what is effes?

Effes is a Turkish beer, I like it (and I’m from Belgium… 😉 )

Turkey has been on my radar after seeing so many beautiful pictures on Instagram. I would love to go on a hot air balloon in Cappadoci one day! And Pamukkale looks absolutely stunning!

You’ve discovered so many beautiful gems!! What’s your favorite??? I’m bookmarking this for when I take a trip to Turkey! I’d love to go to Pamukkale and Cappadocia most especially! And maybe ride on a hot air balloon! What a dream!

Woow! That’s one hell of an article. I loved every bit of it! I really like Turky, but i’ve been only to Istanbul so far. I really want to see each and every place you wrote about here and hopefully even more. Good luck on your trip! I admire u deeply! 🙂

Thank you Nastja 🙂 Turkey is a surprisingly varied ranging from fantastic beaches to stunning archaeological sites. Hope you go back there one day to explore more of this beautiful country!! 🙂

I was completely hooked to your post right from your first picture of Myra (and I ended up researching a lot about it later on). I have spent such little time in Turkey and I think it’s a shame. Bookmarking this post for planning my adventures there 🙂

Thanks!! Myra is definitely worth a visit! Where did you stay when you visited Turkey?

Turkey is a wonderland and all of these places that you have listed look breathtaking. Turkey has been in my bucket list since a long time and now I can’t wait to add these places in my bucket list. Amazing!

Pack your bags and go there NOW 🙂 We were very pleasant surprised when we discovered all these beautiful places that Turkey has to offer!!

All of these places look simply incredible, most of which I’d never heard of before! Patara and Myra remind me a lot of different archaeological sites in Jordan. I suppose given their geographical proximity they must share a little bit of history right? Also, I’ve never actually seen a photo of Cappadocia without balloons in it so haven’t ever fully appreciated the landscape. It definitely looks absolutely breathtaking!

Yes, Patara and Myra have definitely a similar look to the sites in Jordan. Cappadocia might be famous for its hot air balloon rides but we didn’t think that was the highlight of our visit there. That landscape is so outworldy and is beautiful to see with and without balloons 😉

Great post Nicholas, You posted covered almost all the must see sites Turkey. Love it. I must say that I had thought of visiting Turkey one day but the pictures from Myra, Pamukkale and Cappadocia are simply stunning. More interesting than the capital Istanbul, which everyone talks about.

Thanks man! We first had the idea to visit Istanbul but eventually never made it there. Instead we ventured through other parts of the country and we’re happy we did or we might have missed out on these beauties!

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7 of the best cities to visit in Turkey

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Few countries so close to home can tick off as many travel essentials as Turkey , with flights from the UK taking around four hours, or about four days if you take the train.

The country has warm weather in both summer and winter, while being home to beautiful coastal areas , renowned historic sights, buoyant party resorts and an eclectic range of cities.

It’s no secret that Turkey is an excellent holiday destination. But less well known is the variety on show within its cities, a surprising number of which will keep you busy over a weekend or even longer.

Istanbul is many visitors’ first taste of the country, with its high-octane way of life and excellent range of things to do providing a memorable introduction to Turkish culture, history, cuisine and nightlife.

In Turkey’s south west, the Turquoise Coast – also known as the Turkish Riviera – is home to cities such as Bodrum and Antalya . They combine distinct heritage with striking coastal beauty, the perfect spots to visit in the midst of a beach holiday in this laid-back part of the world.

In the capital, Ankara , meanwhile, a vibrant energy attracts Turkish and foreign visitors alike.

But in a country so large, and so blessed with captivating cities, it can be difficult to know where to begin. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the best cities in Turkey to help you plan your next adventure , whether it’s history, nightlife or culture that gets you going.

Istanbul is the most visited Turkish city by foreign tourists

With a population of around 16 million people, Istanbul is a city that seemingly never sleeps. Bisected by the emerald waters of the Bosphorous Strait (which you can tour by boat for marvelous views), this is the place where two continents meet, and this fusion of distinct cultures has created a vibrant city whose energetic way of life often borders on chaotic.

A city steeped in the history of both Europe and Asia, Istanbul has been the home of three different empires over almost three millennia, and today still preserves some remnants of these vastly different cultures. Ottoman and Byzantine influences dominate, particularly in the Sultanahmet district, home to many of the city’s must-see sights.

Prime among these are the Blue Mosque, with its towering minarets, and the Hagia Sophia, a mosque that was originally constructed as a church, reflecting the changing influences that the city has been subject to. Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern are the district’s other main attractions, though it pays to explore further afield in areas like Balat, originally the city’s Greek Orthodox and Armenian neighbourhood, and Fener.

For a more contemporary taste of Istanbul, Arnavutköy is the heart of the city’s nightlife scene, while SALT Beyoğlu hosts art exhibitions and film screenings.

Read more on Turkey travel :

  • Best Turkey holiday destinations
  • All aboard the night train to Istanbul: the reality of one of the ‘world’s best’ rail journeys
  • Turkey’s best winter sun spots to visit

Antalya is the fifth most populous city in the country

Most years, Antalya competes with Istanbul for the title of ‘most visited Turkish city’. Though just a fraction of the size, Antalya, the capital of the country’s Turquoise Coast, punches above its weight in the tourism stakes thanks to a characterful old town, a beautiful harbour and dozens of beautiful surrounding beaches.

Some of the best nearby beaches include Cirali, Konyaalti and Patara, and while many choose to stay in one of the various beachfront resorts that populate the surrounding coastline, exploring Antalya itself is certainly worth leaving your sun lounger for.

Its charming old town, known as Kaleiçi, consists of labyrinthine streets housing a series of mosques, ancient walls, russet-roofed stone buildings and parks that attest to the influence of Ottoman culture and architecture. These narrow alleys snake down to the equally idyllic harbour, where a slew of cafes and restaurants welcome revellers throughout the day and night.

Bodrum was once home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World

Bodrum is best known as an ideal spot for a Turkish summer holiday. Set among rolling green hills, it has an enviable coastal location, pristine beaches like Yahsi and Aspat, a variety of tourist sites and lively nightlife for those who seek it.

A range of resorts, from the dazzling high-end to the more affordable and family-friendly, cater to all sorts of tourists, whether you’re looking for parties on the marina or want to delve into the region’s history. There’s plenty of Bodrum’s past to explore; once known as Halicarnassus, it still contains a mausoleum, ancient ruins, a Roman theatre and the 700-year-old Bodrum Castle.

Like any coastal tourist city, there’s plenty more to see and do in Bodrum away from ruins and sun loungers. Scuba diving is a popular activity in nearby Gokova Bay, while boat trips around the peninsula or the Dalyan River are a good way to spend an afternoon, as is wine tasting at Karnas Vineyards . The town’s proximity to Kos means that tourists and locals alike will often spend the day in Greece too.

Ankara was declared the capital of Turkey in 1923

Turkey’s capital city may be overshadowed by world-renowned Istanbul, but Ankara offers visitors an experience of Turkey’s ‘other’ side, away from chaotic cities and party-centric coastal resorts. This is a youthful, exciting city that fuses the old and the new. It is fuelled by its relatively new status as a major city, and vibrant modern areas such as studenty Kizilay and more upmarket Kavaklidere.

But Ankara has been careful not to forget its past. High above the city sits the Anit Kabir, the vast mausoleum of the father of modern Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who led the War of Independence and bestowed the city’s status as capital. Down below in Hisar, Roman monuments like those at Ulus sit alongside Byzantine citadel walls that enclose Ottoman-era mini villages. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and the Museum of the War of Independence are two more historical highlights, while the parks of Kugulu and Genclik provide some much-needed green space.

Izmir is home to around 4.5 million people

Izmir is sometimes overlooked in favour of nearby Bodrum or Marmaris, but Turkey’s third largest city is home to plenty of arts, culture and a rich heritage, as well as the idyllic coastal resorts of Cesme, Alacati and Urla.

While the city’s past was characterised by activity around the Bay of Izmir, Konak Pier and the impressive city promenade (known as Kordon), the modern-day symbol of the city is its 20th-century Clock Tower.

It is located in the middle of Konak Square, in the district of the same name, which is also the gateway of the maze-like 17 th -century Kemeralti Market. This Turkish bazaar stretches across the city into the Roman agora, with the ancient Kadifekale fort being the other main historic site.

Edirne was capital of the Ottoman Empire before Constantinople

Located on the border with Greece and Bulgaria , Edirne is a city with a more European feel than other Turkish counterparts, but one whose architecture, mosques, bazaars and palace provide a constant reminder that you are in a former Ottoman capital.

Edirne sits along the banks of both the Maritza and Tunca rivers, surrounded by verdant plains and with much of the same white-washed, russet-roofed building styles as Antalya. The city’s main landmark is the 16th-century Selimiye Mosque, an impressive Unesco-listed structure that has become a symbol of Edirne. Other mosques, such as Muradiye, Old Mosque and the Sultan Beyezid II Complex, adorn the city skyline, while a series of bridges over the Tunca also hark back to Ottoman times, and provide a base for summer relaxation and mild swims.

Regular ferries operate between Marmaris and both Rhodes and Symi in Greece

Marmaris is a popular coastal town, welcoming thousands of tourists every summer despite its modest size. It benefits from a striking location on the Aegean Sea and surrounded by dense forest and towering hills, with a coastline that is home to golden sand lapped by azure waters along beaches like Urban or Long Beach.

Like Antalya, the town begins in its yacht-filled marina, with a maze of narrow streets slowly snaking back into the old town, itself a sea of red roofs and white-washed buildings. Marmaris Castle, the museum, the bazaar and Jinan Gardens are worth exploring to take in history, a spot of shopping and a pleasant stroll, before ending the day on aptly named Bar Street, the centre of the city’s often raucous nightlife.

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20 Cities in Turkiye

- This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure.

Turkiye is a vast country of 85 million people, with Istanbul, a city of 15.5 million, straddling Europe and Asia. Two of its natural boundaries, the west and the south are seas while it has land borders with eight different countries, two to the northwest, Greece and Bulgaria and a further six in the east from Georgia right around to Syria. The modern-day state celebrates its centenary later in 2023. It is perhaps fitting that this is the year when its name change recognises the country in its own language, Turkiye, and so, from this point onwards, that is the name that the United Nations registers.

Ankara is the national capital, a large inland city in Turkiye away from the “organised chaos” of the country’s most famous city, Istanbul. Formerly known primarily as Anatolia, a mountainous and largely rural region, there are still many large cities throughout Turkiye. In recent times, the infrastructure has been further developed with the road system dramatically upgraded. In addition, there is a comprehensive domestic flight schedule run by both the national airline and Pegasus. There are over 50 airports in Turkiye, with the longest domestic flights from Istanbul to the extreme east of the country taking two hours. You can see then the size of this vast country. Here are 20 cities in Turkiye, other than the capital, categorised by a common feature by which they may be known.

Plan Your Trip

2- istanbul, 11- eskisehir, 16- kahramanmaras, 17- diyarbakir, 19- sanliurfa, 20- gaziantep, cities in turkiye.

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tourist city of turkey

Find A Hotel – If you’re curious about this article and are looking for somewhere to stay, take a look at these amazing hotels .

20 Cities In Turkey (now Turkiye) To Visit

  • Best of Turkey 10-Day Package Tour – explore top cities on a package tour.
  • From Istanbul: 8 Days Highlights of Turkey Bus Tour – good value.
  • Ankara: Private Tour with a Local – discover the capital’s secrets.
  • From Istanbul: Day Trip to Edirne – the second capital of the Ottoman Empire.
  • Cappadocia to Konya, Pamukkale and Ephesus Tour – archaeology and geology at its best.

Capital City Of Turkiye

panoramic view of Ankara aerial

The highlight of any visit to the capital of Turkiye is to see the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the republic’s first President and the man who inspired his troops in World War I.

His tribute to those on both sides who fell at the famous battle in Gallipoli marks him as an important figure in 20th-century world history.

He died fairly young at age 57 in 1938, and his life continues to be celebrated by all Turks over 80 years later.

Ataturk chose Ankara as the national capital in 1923; today, this modern city is home to over 5.5 million.

It not only functions as a capital, but it is also home to culture and art.

Top tour: Ankara: Private Tour with a Local.

Ottoman Capitals

Aerial of Istanbul at sunrise

Istanbul is one of the world’s truly great cities.

The Ottomans took it in the middle of the 15th century, and it was the centre of a massive empire until the First World War.

Called Constantinople until the arrival of the Ottomans, Istanbul’s main tourist sites are on its European side with the Bosphorus, the link between the Black Sea and the Aegean dividing Europe from Asia.

Its expansion on the Asian side has been remarkable. Visitors will find a hectic city with busy roads and ferries crossing the Bosphorus every minute, day and night.

The waters are very important commercially and for ferry passengers travelling between the continents.

Edirne Selimiye mosque

One of the cities that the Ottomans used as a capital before they took Constantinople was the city of Edirne, northwest towards the border with Greece and Bulgaria.

It was founded in Roman times and was the scene of many conflicts over the centuries before being taken by the Ottomans in the late 14th century.

The city’s highlight of under 200,000 (the metropolitan population exceeds 400,000) is undoubtedly the wonderful mosque.

Selimiye, with its huge dome and four minarets, was built in the 16th century and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site for over a decade.

Top tour: Istanbul: Day Trip to Edirne .

Panoramic view of the city of Bursa

Another former Ottoman capital, Bursa is the centre of Turkiye’s car manufacturing.

However, its long Muslim history means that you may not be surprised that one of its highlights is a mosque dating back to the 14th century, Ulu Cami (Great Mosque).

Bursa sits below Mount Uludag, offering excellent skiing facilities in wintertime.

This is northwest Turkiye, close to the Sea of Marmara and not too far from Istanbul.

There are numerous historical and religious sites to visit while its nickname, “Yesil Bursa (Green)”, came about because of the number of parks and trees in the immediate region.

The metropolitan population is 3 million and growing.

Top tour: From Istanbul: Green Bursa Full-Day Excursion.

  • 20 Landmarks In Turkey
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Coastal Resort Cities 

The Aegean and Mediterranean coastlines have seen huge development in recent decades as charter flights and package holidays have been increasingly popular and available.

City of Izmir seen from the hill

This city and port sit on the Aegean, facing west.

The Greeks founded it in ancient times, with the Romans taking over later.

It became an important trading port in those days and retained its commercial role with western traders, typically French, British and Venetian visiting from the 16th century onwards.

Today, it is Turkiye’s main export port.

The population is approaching 4.5 million, making it the third largest city in Turkiye by population.

Izmir has everything you would expect of a modern city, art, culture, history, shopping and entertainment, with its cuisine reflecting the foreign influences it has embraced over the years.

From Izmir, you may want to do a full-day tour to Ephesus . 

Hill of the city of Bodrum in Turkey

In the southwest facing the Greek Island of Kos in the Aegean, Bodrum has grown rapidly since Turkiye became a popular resort destination.

It is in a region whose history includes the Greeks, Persians, Alexander the Great, the Romans, the Crusaders and the Ottomans.

One of the Ancient Seven Wonders of the World was here, destroyed by earthquakes, the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus.

Bodrum Castle now stands on its original site, one of many places to see.

The warm waters and lovely beaches swell the local population of just under 200,000 hugely with easy access via Bodrum-Milas International Airport.

Top tour: Full-Day Orak Island Boat Trip from Bodrum .

Butterfly Valley, natural cove of Fethiye

Another resort in Mugla, Turkiye’s southwest province, Fethiye is growing as quickly as Bodrum.

Its population of around 160,000 has doubled in a decade.

Nearby Dalaman International Airport receives huge numbers of visitors each year, many of whom head 45 kilometres (25 miles) east to Fethiye with its lovely bays, offshore islands and beaches.

Additional attractions here include sarcophagi dating back to the Carian Empire in the years BC, the abandoned city of Kayakoy, Greek until the founding of the Turkish republic, and natural wonders like Butterfly Valley.

Top tour: Oludeniz: Butterfly Valley Tour & St. Nicholas Island Cruise .

Antalya is Turkiye’s main tourist city on the Mediterranean coast, with its international airport busy all year around.

Visitors may head off to other resorts to its east and west but Antalya itself has much to appeal to tourists.

Its heart is Kaleici (Old Town), with the Hadrian Gate the entrance to narrow cobbled streets, Ottoman-style houses, bars, restaurants and plenty of pensions to stay in.

A small harbour sits at its base where you can sit back with a coffee and enjoy the view.

There are numerous alternatives for tourists wishing to stay in Antalya.

Many top-quality hotels offer all-inclusive deals, with plenty lining the coast east and west of the city centre.

map of Turkey

The Black Sea stretching from Istanbul all the way east to Georgia, is Turkiye’s northern border.

Two of the most significant settlements here are described below.

Trabzon is mentioned in Greek literature as far back as 400 BC.

It is in the far northeast of Turkiye, a city and port of 800,000 with links across the Black Sea primarily to Georgia, Russia and Ukraine.

There is a small mosque, Hagia Sophia, within the city and a house gifted to Ataturk by the city in 1924.

Trabzon is also an excellent base for those wanting to explore the attractions in the immediate area inland, with Sumela Monastery, a 4th-century Greek Orthodox Monastery, probably the most famous.

This is close to Turkiye’s tea-growing area with attractive steep river valleys heading up to a beautiful plateau region.

Top tour: Trabzon: Guided City Highlights Tour.

Samsun is the largest city along the Black Sea coastline in this area, stretching between two river deltas.

It is just beyond the halfway point between Istanbul and the border with Georgia.

There are around 1.35 million living in the province as a whole with over half in the city.

It was the base from which Ataturk began the Turkish War of Independence after the end of the Second World War.

It is popular with Turkish tourists with several beaches and water sports available and a significant number of natural attractions inland as well as museums and mosques.

Anatolia, formerly known as Asia Minor, makes up most of today’s Turkiye. In reality, it covers around 97% of the nation, but for this article, some of the cities have been placed under other sub-titles.

Turkiye’s rail network is not comprehensive but one of the main routes from Istanbul via Ankara to the east goes through Eskisehir.

It lies 330 kilometres (200 miles) south of Istanbul and 233 kilometres (145 miles) west of Ankara.

The city population is approaching 900,000 and is home to three important universities and several museums.

Eskisehir (“Old City” in Turkish) is one of the major industrial cities of Turkiye but it also offers plenty in the way of history and culture, its origins predating Christ in the times of the Phyrigians.

Konya bus passing a mosque

Konya is another ancient city in central Anatolia south of Ankara.

It is on the quickest road travelling west to east in Turkiye and is on the route to Cappadocia for anyone travelling from the west.

The city population has exceeded 1 million, with more than that again in the province of which it is the capital.

Its oldest mosque was built in the 13th century and has been a significant settlement since the earliest days.

These days, it has become one of the country’s most prosperous cultural and religious cities.

Significant numbers of tourists visit each year, while trade within the country and exporting means Konya plays an essential role in the national economy.

Top tour: Cappadocia to Konya, Pamukkale and Ephesus Tour.

That train at Istanbul and goes via Eskisehir and Antalya eastwards to Kars, which is high up on a plateau in the northeast (commercial trains head on through to Georgia and finally Baku on the Caspian Sea).

Many tourists head to Kars mainly to visit the 11th-century ruins of Ani, an abandoned Armenian city.

In the city itself, the castle looks down over the Kars River and the city has more statues than any other place in Turkiye.

Agriculture is very important locally, but the winter climate can be very severe, making it a single-crop region.

Cheese and honey are the most profitable products in this sector.

Lake Van in winter

Van sits on the eastern shore of the largest lake in Turkiye in the extreme east, close to the borders with Iran and Armenia.

The saline soda lake covers a vast area, 3755 sq. km.(1,450 square miles) and is fed from the rivers and streams coming from the surrounding mountains.

It was formerly a largely Armenian population that lived there; boundaries have changed significantly, of course, with Turkiye only taking control a century ago.

Today, many of the 400,000 population are Kurdish.

The Van cat is something that has brought the city’s name to the fore.

Van cats are white and have different coloured eyes.

South-East Turkiye

Much of what is now a region in Turkiye was once Mesopotamia, fed by the rivers Tigris and Euphrates, which rise in Turkiye and then flow into Syria and Iraq to the Persian Gulf.

It is an area that has recently suffered colossal damage and casualties from strong earthquakes and aftershocks.

Each of the cities in Turkiye below has a significant population and a rich history and culture.

A popular tour takes a circular route to visit all the ones mentioned below, starting in Adana, heading out to the furthest one east before turning south to Mardin before returning.

Adana city center

Adana is a huge city close to the eastern end of the Mediterranean, a city of 2.25 million that some claim is the oldest permanently settled place in the world.

It is mentioned in Homer’s Iliad and was important to everyone from the Greeks and Romans to the Hittites. St. Paul was born as Saul in nearby Tarsus incidentally.

Adana has quite a mixed population and was under French control until the modern republic’s foundation.

The impressive Sabanci Mosque is modern, virtually a copy of the one in Edirne and just over two decades since opening.

The Roman Stone Bridge is another of the city’s highlights, while the spicy kebab, given the city’s name, features on all menus throughout the republic.

If you travel east then north 200 kilometres (125 miles), you will come to the home of Turkish ice cream, Kahramanmaras.

Turkish ice cream (“dondurma” in Turkish) has a gluey yet sweet consistency created using powder from the roots of orchids added to the mixture.

Famous ice cream companies have set up here, and one of the main reasons tourists visit is to taste the original ice cream where it is made.

The city has a population of over 1 million and became part of the new republic after a brief period under British then French control.

Diyarbakir’s famous city walls look down on the Tigris River flowing south.

The city is a further 370 kilometres (230 miles) east, with the impressive fortress dominating the region.

Just over 1 million live in the city itself, with the majority being Kurdish.

If there was ever to be a Kurdish state, this would be its capital.

Its past includes the Assyrians, with the region converting to Islam in the religion’s very early days.

The Turk-Kurdish conflict here has marred the region, but tourists have returned to enjoy this lovely city in recent years.

It even has an agricultural area recognised by UNESCO as it maintains its original ancient layout.

A tip: try the sugar-coated almonds!

Old town of Mardin

Largely just south, 96 kilometres (60 miles), you will reach Mardin, a wonderful ancient city with cobbled streets and an impressive ancient monastery.

South is heading down the Tigris to the Syrian border, but in recent times, visitors are returning even though the refugee crisis is not yet solved.

Building in the old town is strictly limited in size and style, with UNESCO ensuring that regulations are observed.

Mardin is relatively small, with a population of around 130,000.

It is a city with a sizeable Arab population, Kurds, and some Assyrian Christians, although the Great Mosque spells the Islamic religion.

skyline of Sanliurfa aerial view

If you head west now for 200 kilometres (125 miles), you will reach Sanliurfa, where you are certain to hear about Abraham.

The local king was said to have tried to burn Abraham, but the fire turned to water which remains as a lake full of fish that flourish because it is forbidden to try to catch them.

Within the city, you will see old cave houses by the road, while the neolithic site of Gobleki Tepe is just a very short distance away.

The ancient site of Harran is of equal interest, where the conical dome houses made of clay are well worth a visit.

On the road west to Gaziantep from Sanliurfa, you will cross back over the Euphrates River, a total 150-kilometre (94 miles) trip.

This city of 2 million is back towards Adana, which is a further 185 kilometres (115 miles) west.

It is famous for its cuisine with the dessert, baklava, especially distinctive.

Unfortunately, Gaziantep is now best known as the epicentre of a destructive earthquake that has even damaged the old castle walls.

In happier times, tourists flocked there for the cuisine, the castle, the historic heart of the city, and the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, which has few equals anywhere.

The city will rebuild and those tourists will visit again soon, everyone hopes.

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Jan 3, 2022 • 8 min read

The landscape of  Cappadocia and its horizon filled with hot air balloons is one of the most iconic sights in Turkey

The landscape of Cappadocia and its horizon filled with hot air balloons is one of the most iconic sights in Turkey © Francesco Riccardo Iacomino / Getty Images

Whether your ideal vacation involves sunbathing on a Mediterranean beach , trekking in rugged mountains or learning more about the complex cultural layers laid down over thousands of years of history, Turkey has options to entice every kind of traveler. 

The country boasts an abundance of ancient sites and diverse natural landscapes, as well as lively cities, tantalizing food and opportunities for adventure. You'll never cover everything on just the one vacation but here’s our pick of the best things to do in Turkey to get you started.

Woman admiring ruins at Ephesus in Turkey

Tour the ancient city of Ephesus

The well-preserved streets of Ephesus are lined with evidence of what daily life was like for the ancient Greeks and Romans who inhabited the city for hundreds of years: the remains of their shops and schools, temples and public toilets.

Highlights of the main site include the intricately carved facade of the Library of Celsus – once the third-largest library in the world – a huge open-air theater, a Roman bath and numerous monumental fountains and gates. Well worth the separate admission fee are the Terraced Houses . These luxurious residences belonged to the Roman elite and are full of mosaics, frescoes and marble worthy of an episode of “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous.”

Luxuriate in a Turkish bath

In the days when most homes lacked indoor plumbing, hamams (commonly referred to as Turkish baths in English) played a crucial role both as a place to get clean and to socialize. Today, they’re typically a special-occasion destination, more often frequented by tourists than locals, but still a luxury well worth indulging in.

The full treatment includes a scrub and massage by a same-gender attendant, but you can also opt to bathe yourself in their steamy chambers. With their marble-covered interiors and sky-lit domes, the grandest hamams – such as the Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamamı , the Cağaloğlu Hamamı and the Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı in Istanbul – are a treat for the eyes as well as the body. In the old Ottoman capital of Bursa, hamams like Eski Kaplıca and Yeni Kaplıca feature pools fed by the area’s natural thermal springs.

See Cappadocia from above and below

First thing in the morning, the skies above Cappadocia fill with hot-air balloons that take visitors floating above the area’s canyons, fairy chimneys and other fantastical rock formations. Even if you don’t fancy a flight, it’s worth getting up early to see the colorful aerial display from the ground. For a more, er, down-to-earth experience, follow labyrinthine tunnels many stories deep into underground cities such as Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı , where thousands of people took shelter from invaders for months at a time. In addition to living quarters, these subterranean settlements included facilities to stable animals, cook, worship and even make wine.

Imam bayildi with vegetables and sesame close-up on a plate

Feast on meze and fish

The “rakı-balık” night is a quintessential Turkish dining experience, particularly in Istanbul and along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. What some call the national drink of Turkey, rakı is a strong anise-flavoured liqueur typically mixed with water and ice, and balık is fish. Such meals typically start with an assortment of meze, which are often the real stars of the show.

These small dishes meant for sharing feature both classic and creative combinations of vegetables, herbs and seafood, often topped with yogurt or cooked in olive oil. If you do manage to save room for the main course, popular fish choices depending on the season include grilled levrek (sea bass) and çipura (sea bream), or lightly fried istavrit (mackerel), barbun (red mullet) and hamsi (anchovies).

Shop in colorful bazaars

Despite the proliferation of shopping malls and grocery stores, traditional bazaar culture remains strong in Turkey. Most historic centers will have at least one çarşı , a shopping arcade or maze-like marketplace district with vendors selling everything from cheap souvenirs to handmade leather or metal crafts. Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar (known as the Kapalı Çarşı, or “covered marketplace” in Turkish) is the most famous example, but ones in cities like Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa are more atmospheric and authentic.

Equally colorful and important to local life is the pazar , an open-air market for fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables and other food products, as well as clothing and household goods. Depending on the town or city neighborhood, they might be set up in the street under rigged-up tarps, in an emptied parking lot or garage, or in a purpose-built structure. Held in different areas on set days of the week, they’re cheap and lively places to buy staples or just browse. Some large pazars , like the weekly market in the resort town of Fethiye, feature stalls selling gözleme (stuffed flatbreads) and other simple dishes to sate hungry shoppers.

The ornate interior of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul

Admire architectural splendor in Istanbul

The rulers of the city formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople left their marks in grand style. The Hagia Sophia ’s soaring dome still leaves visitors awestruck a millennium and a half after its construction, while the towering Aqueduct of Valens and the vast subterranean Basilica Cistern attest to the impressive engineering feats that the Romans employed to supply the city and its residents with drinking water. 

With a prime position overlooking the confluence of the Bosphorus, Golden Horn and Marmara Sea, Topkapi Palace evokes the might of the Ottoman Empire at its peak: lavishly decorated chambers, a treasury dripping with massive jewels and a kitchen that could feed 4000 people. Istanbul’s minaret-studded skyline is a heritage of the Ottomans as well. The famous Blue Mosque gets the most attention, but visitors shouldn’t miss the tiny, tile-bedecked Rüstem Paşa Mosque and the graceful Süleymaniye Mosque , perched atop one of the old city’s seven hills. History buffs can really dig into the different cultural eras in Istanbul by exploring its wealth of museums detailing the fascinating legacy of the city .

Cruise turquoise waters on a gület

Few vacations are more relaxing than a multi-day cruise aboard a gület (traditional wooden yacht) plying sections of Turkey’s southwestern coastline between Bodrum and Antalya . While away the long, sunny days swimming in secluded coves, reading or playing tavla (backgammon) on deck, eating fresh-caught fish, drinking rakı as the sun sets and sleeping out under the stars. If you get tired of blissfully lazing around, you can hop ashore along the way to explore the ancient ruins of Knidos , climb to the top of the Crusader Castle in Kaleköy or stop for lunch at one of the cool cafe-restaurants in Kaş . 

Hike the Lycian Way

For a more active way to explore the Turquoise Coast, consider taking on part of the Lycian Way , a long-distance trekking path stretching 540 km (335 mi) from Fethiye to Antalya. Best traversed in spring or fall, the sometimes challenging trail winds along spectacular coastal cliffs, through bucolic villages and beach towns, past ancient ruins and up into the mountains.

Most sections have accommodation options in small pensions as well as camping. Highlights along the way include the secluded valley of Kabak , the long sandy beach of Patara , the massive rock tombs of Myra , the ruins of Olympos and the “ burning rock ” at Çıralı. If you want to see more of Turkey's incredible landscape on foot and escape the crowded tourist spots, extend your trip and spend some time exploring the country's stunning array of national parks .

See incredible Roman mosaics

Tiny colored cubes of glass, ceramic or stone were used during the Roman era to make amazingly detailed tableaux depicting mythological tales, heroic battles, lavish banquets and other scenes. Splendidly preserved examples of these mosaics, which often decorated the floors of grand palaces and villas, can today be found in numerous museums in Turkey, most notably the Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum , the Hatay Archaeology Museum and the Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum in Şanlıurfa.

Linger over a leisurely Turkish breakfast

It’s hard to think of a better way to fuel up for a big day of sightseeing than with a Turkish breakfast spread ( serpme kahvaltı ). Start with the savory nibbles: olives, cheeses, sliced tomatoes and cucumbers, perhaps some spicy pepper paste along with your eggs. Then satisfy your sweet tooth with homemade jams and a decadent swirl of honey and thick cream ( kaymak ). Different parts of the country have their own special additions: fresh herbs along the Aegean coast, cornmeal cooked with melted butter and cheese (called mıhlama or kuymak ) in the Black Sea region, and fermented cheese and hot peppers in Hatay. Endless small glasses of black tea are universal.

Nemrut Dağı ruins

Watch the sunrise from atop Mt. Nemrut

The surreal sight at the summit of Nemrut Dağı is testament to both the extent of the power that can be wielded by a ruler and to its inevitable decline. In the 1st century BCE, a Hellenistic king had massive statues of deities, mythic beasts and other figures built on top of a rocky peak as a monument to his own greatness. Earthquakes over the centuries toppled the heads of these statues from their bodies and they now sit scattered around a stark, remote landscape. Tour groups typically bring visitors up here at sunrise or sunset, but if you stay overnight at one of the simple lodgings a little below the summit, you can experience both.

Imagine the beginnings of human civilization

Turkey is home to some of the world’s most important Neolithic sites , which are still yielding new insights – and questions – about how humans lived more than 10,000 years ago. In the center of the country near Konya, the excavations of Çatalhöyük have provided clues about early “urban” life, the period when people started to transition from nomadic ways to settled agrarian livelihoods. In the southeast outside of Şanlıurfa, the findings at the ritual complex of Göbeklitepe – thought to be the world’s first place of worship – have transformed our understanding of when humans began to develop religious beliefs and practices.

You might also like: Do you need a visa to go to Turkey? The 10 most incredible places to visit in Turkey How to drink Turkish coffee like a local

This article was first published October 2021 and updated January 2022

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Unearth the hidden treasures of Gumusler Monastery, a remarkable monastic complex nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia, Turkey. Enhanced by exploring Europe trip packages, this ancient UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a captivating journey into the region's rich religious and cultural heritage.Explore the intricate frescoes, cave chapels, and underground tunnels, each telling stories of spiritual devotion and artistic brilliance. The serenity of Gumusler Monastery's surroundings, away from the crowds, creates a tranquil atmosphere ideal for reflection and exploration.A visit to Gumusler Monastery is an immersive experience, offering insights into the monastic life of the past and the architectural wonders created by its inhabitants. Embrace the spiritual ambiance and admire the exquisite craftsmanship that makes this hidden gem an exceptional destination for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the soul-stirring charm of Cappadocia's ancient heritage.

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Nestled on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey, the Ari Burnu Cemetery stands as a poignant testament to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Gallipoli Campaign of World War I. Enhanced by exploring Europe trip packages, this hallowed ground offers a solemn and reflective atmosphere, serving as the final resting place for those who fought valiantly on this historic battleground.As you enter the cemetery, you are immediately struck by the rows upon rows of pristine gravestones, each one representing a life cut short in the pursuit of duty. The quiet serenity that envelops the cemetery invites contemplation and remembrance. Here, visitors have the opportunity to pay their respects, honoring the bravery and resilience of the fallen soldiers.Walking along the paths, you'll notice the meticulously maintained graves, adorned with flowers, wreaths, and personal mementos left by visitors from around the world. These offerings stand as gestures of gratitude and serve as a reminder that the sacrifices made in the name of freedom will never be forgotten.The cemetery also features poignant memorials and plaques that recount the stories of the soldiers and the battles fought in this historic campaign. These tributes offer a glimpse into the human experiences and hardships faced by the soldiers, further deepening the significance of this sacred ground.

Curetes Street

Walking along Curetes Street today, visitors are transported back in time. Enhanced by Europe packages, The well-preserved ruins reveal the grandeur of the ancient city, with remnants of towering columns, intricate facades, and ornate carvings. As you stroll along the street, you can imagine the sound of bustling footsteps, the clinking of merchant stalls, and the lively conversations of residents and visitors.The street was lined with various structures, including shops, houses, public buildings, and temples, showcasing the architectural brilliance of the ancient world. The facades of these structures, adorned with sculptural reliefs and decorative elements, provide a fascinating insight into the artistic and cultural achievements of the time.Curetes Street was more than just a thoroughfare; it was a place where the social, commercial, and spiritual life of Ephesus converged. The street led to the iconic Library of Celsus, the impressive Temple of Hadrian, and other significant structures, making it a vibrant and significant part of the city's fabric.Visiting Curetes Street allows visitors to walk in the footsteps of ancient Ephesians, experiencing the ambience of a thriving ancient city. It is an opportunity to appreciate the rich history, architectural ingenuity, and cultural heritage of Ephesus, and to marvel at the remarkable preservation of this archaeological treasure. As you explore the remnants of Curetes Street, you can't help but be captivated by the sense of connection to the past and the enduring legacy of this magnificent ancient city.

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istanbul turkey

Top 5 Cities to Visit in Turkey

  • April 18, 2017
  • 20 Comments
  • Places to Visit

Turkey, a country where two continents meet, despite the unfortunate events in the recent time, is still one of the favourite destinations among tourists from around the world. This is not difficult to understand, since it is one of those places with stunning scenery and rich historic legacy where you can feel the mixture of old and modern culture where the traveler is looking for breathtaking coastlines, remote beaches or heavenly food. If you’re planning a trip to Turkey anytime soon, we will tell you where exactly to go and why!

Turkish capital is the second largest city in the country, as well as the major university centre. It is a modern jungle city popular with tourists and, although it may seem differently at first glance, it is a symbol of independece and Western values . The most important figure of the city is well-known Atatürk, whose legacy is undeniable, which is best observable in Mausoleum of Atatürk , a huge tomb and memorial to the first president of the new Republic of Turkey who declared Ankara as the capital. Don’t forget to include the walking tour of the historical Old Quarters in your visit, because strolling through narrow, cobbled streets surrounded by old red-roofed Ottoman houses is something definitely worth experiencing.

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This urban cultural melting pot is something you must visit at least once in your lifetime. Who hasn’t heard of the famous Hagia Sophia, the magnificent church turned into a mosque and a symbol of Constantinople or Blue Mosque built in the 17th century? Another reason to go there is Grand Baazar, one of the largest covered markets in the world where you can buy everything, from jewellery and spices to carpets and antiques (don’t forget to bargain there, otherwise you will be ripped off). Apart from so many things to see in this historically rich metropolis offers some of the best views in Turkey , from a boat on the Bosphorus during sunset or the Galata Tower.

Together with Istanbul, Antalya is the most popular tourist region in Turkey . The best way to discover the beauty of the region is to use a cable car to travel up Mount Tahtali , from where you can marvel at the stunning panoramic views of the coastline. After the climb, check out the ruins of Phaselis and gorgeous beaches nearby. It is an ancient Lycian city once ruled by Alexander the Great whose remains also include an amphitheatre and houses. For sun lovers, Lara Beach is the best destination, as can you enjoy not only the crystal blue sea, but if you happen to be there during high season in summer, the Antalya sand festival as well, where talented artists create life-size figures to impress the visitors.

The coastal Turkish city of Izmir is one of the fastest-growing cruise-ship ports of call on the Aegean Sea and an excellent place to stay if you’re planning a trip to nearby Ephesus and Pergamon. Spend your days browsing the streets and visiting some of the most extensive Roman ruins outside Pompeii. Don’t forget to include Pamukkale in your tour, an amazing geographical phenomenon, unique in the world. It is a mini plateaux with the hot spring water flowing down from the top of the mountain which, on its way down, add white limestone to the ancient plateaux. Visitors can bathe there which are reputed to be good for health. Also, the Izmir Clock Tower is a must-see, it is set in idyllic location for enjoying while gazing at the people passing by and sipping some cooling beverage.

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As a town carved into the volcanic rock , Göreme is the way to the Göreme National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 10th- and 11th- century cave churches. Apart from being a popular place to go to among backpackers, the park is also a great zone to sample the traditional Turkish cuisine and wine . The city itself is situated in the historic region of Cappadocia, in which in a magnificent landscape, entirely sculpted by erosion, the Göreme valley and its surroundings contain rock-hewn sanctuaries that provide unique evidence of Byzantine art in the post-Iconoclastic period. It’s a paradise on Earth for all history and architecture lovers.

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  20Comments

'  data-srcset=

Antalya, İzmir, Goreme and Ankara are really great, need to be seen but Istanbul is the most charming one, don’t miss it.

'  data-srcset=

Why on earth is Ankara here? En kara, more like! Dull city. Erzerum, Sivas, Martin, even Diyarbakir more interesting

'  data-srcset=

marmaris is the best

'  data-srcset=

This southwestern Turkish destination is a vibrant haven you can easily fall in love with.

'  data-srcset=

The destinations you have mentioned indeed, some of the best places to visit in Turkey. I am planning my next trip to Istanbul, can you share some things to in Istanbul to make my trip convenient and easy?

'  data-srcset=

Dear Rekha,

check out our Istanbul guide for all necessary information about the city.

Best regards, GBB Team

'  data-srcset=

You’re right

'  data-srcset=

Which 3 cities are top of the list in Turkey?

Dear Noshaba,

it is difficult to say what would be the top 3 Turkish cities since it is a subjective matter. However, the list of cities is based on our personal opinion and we definitely recommend visiting them.

Best, GBB Team

'  data-srcset=

can you please help me i am planing to visit with my family With 3 chd which city city shuld visit for 7 day please advice appreciated

it is really hard to answer such a question as it depends on too many things, especially your preferences. If you want a personalised itinerary, we suggest you contact one of the tourist agencies in Turkey, they will be glad to help you.

'  data-srcset=

skip ankara …

Istanbul and Goreme are MUST DO

Izmir for Ephesus and beach proximity (Fethiye etc)

Antalya for its historical richness – do check it out the museum. If you are not able to visit Ephesus, check out the ruins near Antalya – there are enough and more.

thank you for your comment, we truly appreciate it!

'  data-srcset=

I loved Antalya when I visited Turkey! Definitely a must-visit. Thanks for this amazing list.

thank you for your comment, we appreciate it!

'  data-srcset=

I loved Istanbul when i visited turkey really i enjoyed

thanks for your comment, we appreciate it!

Best GBB Team

'  data-srcset=

plse advise which are the best beaches, thks.

Please feel free to explore our post on the best beaches in Turkey . We hope you find it helpful in planning your travels and discovering a beach that suits your preferences. Happy exploring! 🙂

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Places To Visit in Turkey

Here are the top 36 tourist places in turkey, 1. istanbul.

tourist city of turkey

1 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 88 Tourist attractions

Although not the official capital of Turkey, Istanbul is still very much the heart of all activities in the country. It is Turkey's largest and most populated city and also the center of tourism. Istanbul is located on both sides of the Bosphorus and thus lies in both Europe and Asia. Its ...

Best Time: March to May or September to November (Spring or Autumn)

2. Cappadocia

2 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 37 Tourist attractions

Cappadocia is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey. It is located in the centre of Turkey, almost 700km from Istanbul. It is a land of natural wonder famous for its picturesque valleys, unique cave hotels, mystical underground cities and fairy chimneys (unique rock formations)...

3 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 37 Tourist attractions

Antalya is one of the oldest yet most modern cities in Turkey. It is located in the southwestern region and is bordered by the Tauras Mountains. Antalya is famous as a Turkish resort city since it is home to several stunning beaches flanked by large and luxurious Las Vegas style resorts. It is ...

Best Time: April to December

4 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 23 Tourist attractions

Bodrum is a beach town nestled in the Bodrum peninsula along the southwestern Aegean Coast. Located opposite the Greek island of Kos, the city is known for its marinas and beaches. One of the most popular vacation destinations in Turkey, Bodrum enjoys close proximity to Izmir, located around 230 kms...

Best Time: August to November

Turkey Travel Packages

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7 Days Turkey Tour Package - Bosphorus Cruise in Istanbul

9 day turkey itinerary with hot air balloon ride, turkey tour package with pamukalle baths, istanbul and kusadasi delights - 5 nights/6 days, 8 nights turkish extravaganza package, 10 day turkey itinerary with cable car tour & konya sightseeing, 5. pamukkale.

5 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 10 Tourist attractions

Pamukkale is located in southwestern Turkey, in the Denizli Province. It is very famous for its travertines (hot water springs) which is a magical site with turquoise pools and snow-white cliffs. It is one of the most photogenic places in the world.

Best Time: September

6 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 26 Tourist attractions

Ankara is the capital of Turkey and the second largest city after Istanbul. It is located in the centre of the Anatolian region and is known to be the nation's administrative centre. It is home to many well-preserved Roman and Ottoman relics scattered throughout the city.

Best Time: April to June and September to November

7 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 24 Tourist attractions

Izmir is the third largest city in Turkey (after Istanbul and Ankara) and the second biggest port. It is a modern metropolitan with a developed and busy city centre surrounded by a large bay. Located on the coast of the Aegean sea, Izmir is known for its beaches and watersports.

Best Time: October to June

8. Marmaris

8 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 22 Tourist attractions

The port city of Marmaris is located at Mugla Province on the Mediterranean Coast in South-west Turkey. It is situated on a mountain-ringed bay, opposite the famous Greek island Rhodes. Known for its isolated bays, luxury hotels and resorts and stunning coastline that extends into picturesque valley...

Best Time: June to September

9 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 19 Tourist attractions

Fethiye is a port city located on the Turquoise Coast of Turkey. Known for its natural harbor and turquoise blue waters, Fethiye is situated around 144 kms away from Antalya in the Aegean region of Turkey. Several rock tombs and beachfront promenades make for tourist spots in the city. The postcard-...

Best Time: July to Oct

10 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 20 Tourist attractions

Alanya is a resort town in the Turkish Riviera, located around 124 kms from Antalya. Alanya is an excellent destination for travelers who seek solitude and a hustle-free countryside trip. It is the perfect blend of medieval history and touristy spots with its turquoise beaches and ancient ruins.

Best Time: Feb to May, Sep to Dec

11. Dalaman

11 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 6 Tourist attractions

The town of Dalaman is located in the Mugla province on the southwestern coast of Turkey. Dalaman is both a district and the main town of the district. This popular coastal town, situated close to Fethiye, is known for its scenic beaches, natural marvels and ancient ruins.

Best Time: July to Nov

12 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 20 Tourist attractions

Also known as the Green Bursa, Bursa is situated at the foothills of Mount Uludag in Anatolia's Marmara region. Bursa is one of Turkey's most important historical cities, with a rich Ottoman history. It is known for its picturesque parks and gardens, vintage Ottoman houses and ornate tombs of Sultan...

Best Time: November to March

13 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 20 Tourist attractions

Kas is a coastal town in the Antalya province of Turkey. It is the most sought-after scuba diving destination in Turkey and is known for sandy beaches, thrilling water sports and fresh seafood.

14. Alacati

14 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 8 Tourist attractions

Surrounded by the Aegean Sea, Alacati is a coastal town in Turkey. Nestled in the Cesme peninsula, this charming-old Greek town is popular for its vineyards, windmills and the sea. It is studded with natural stone houses with alcove windows and vibrantly coloured doors. Just a stoneÍs throw from Izm...

15. Manavgat

15 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 10 Tourist attractions

Located 75 kilometers from Antalya, Manavgat is a coastal town in Pamphylia on the Mediterranean shore of Turkey. It lies almost between Antalya and Alanya and almost blends into Side, a historical holiday destination in Turkey. Nestled in the foothills of the Taurus mountains, Manavgat offers pictu...

16. Kusadasi

16 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 22 Tourist attractions

The beach resort town of Kusadasi is located on the Aegean Coast in Turkey. Located 95 km ride from Izmir, the island of Kusadasi is known for its stunning turquoise sparkling waters, sandy beaches and large marinas. This major cruise destination is also the gateway to historical ruins in Ephesus, a...

Best Time: June to Oct

17. Oludeniz

17 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 14 Tourist attractions

Oludeniz is a resort village nestled on the southwestern coast of Turkey, known for its vast white Belcekiz Beach and the turquoise waters of Oludeniz Tabiat Park. Home to picturesque beaches, Oludeniz is located around 140 kms from Antalya. This Aegean resort town has a pebbled beach near the sandy...

Best Time: April to July

18 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 16 Tourist attractions

Side is nestled in the Southern Mediterranean coast of Turkey, located 78 kms from Antalya. It encompasses the modern resort town and the ruins of the ancient city, making it a perfect blend of ancient and modern architecture. Backed by the blue sea, it is an ideal holiday destination for people who...

Best Time: September to November

19 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 3 Tourist attractions

Gocek is a town in the Fethiye district of Mugla Province, Turkey. The resort town of Gocek offers panoramic views of the sea and lush green valleys. It is an ideal place for travelers who enjoy a country-style vacation in the middle of nowhere. Located at a 20-minute hilly drive from Dalaman Airpor...

20. Trabzon

20 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 16 Tourist attractions

Located on the Black Sea coast of northeastern Turkey, Trabzon is a city with an epic history. Known for its distinctive churches, mosques and natural marvels, Trabzon, formerly known as Trebizond, is the second-largest city in the Black coast region. Trabzon is an excellent place to travel to for a...

Best Time: March to May and September to November

21 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 15 Tourist attractions

Considered to be one of the first residential cities of the world, Konya is a town in the Central Anatolia region in Turkey, towards the south of Ankara. Konya houses numerous mosques and museums and is most popular for the Mevlana Museum, housing the Mevlana tomb. It is also the best place in Turke...

Best Time: April to September

22 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 8 Tourist attractions

Nestled on the Lycian coast, the Mediterranean town of Kalkan is one of the most beautiful locations in Turkey. Known for its historical architecture, crystal clear blue waters and lush green surroundings, Kalkan is an unspoiled haven of nature. This beach town is located one and a half hour's drive...

Best Time: February to May

23 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 12 Tourist attractions

The Turkish coastal town of Cesme is located on the Aegean coast towards the west of Izmir. It is located 89 km from Izmir in Turkey and very close to the Greek island of Chios. Surrounded by crystal blue seas, Cesme is one of the most magnificent stretches in Turkey and a popular holiday resort tow...

24 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 12 Tourist attractions

Kemer is a seaside resort town on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, at the foothills of the Taurus Mountain. Known for its panoramic views of pine trees, golden sand beaches, and lush green valleys, Kemer is located 32 kms from Antalya, a popular holiday destination.

25 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey

Gumbet is a beach resort town on the Aegean coast of Turkey, around 3 kms from Bodrum. This topaz blue bay is known for its lush green, pine-forest mountains and stunning seashores. Situated in the Bodrum peninsula, Gumbet is an excellent alternative to Bodrum itself. This town makes for an excellen...

26 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 6 Tourist attractions

Dalyan is a small town nestled on the southwestern coast of the Mugla province in Turkey. It is located between Marmaris and Fethiye. Dalyan is exceptionally famous for its turtle nesting grounds, particularly for the protected loggerhead species. Moreover, the panoramic vistas of the sea make Dalya...

Best Time: Mar to June, Sep to Oct

27 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 12 Tourist attractions

Located 380 kms from Antara, Mersin is a port city on the Mediterranean coast of southern Turkey. The largest seaport in Turkey, Mersin is a significant economic city of the region; and is rightly regarded as the ïPearl of the MediterraneanÍ. With the most extended seashore in the entirety of the Me...

28 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 14 Tourist attractions

The city of Adana is situated on the banks of the Seyhan River, around 35 kms from the northeastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Housing vast Cilician Plains, Adana is the fourth largest and one of the most populous places in Turkey. It is not a major tourist location in Turkey, but it is frequen...

Best Time: Mar to June, Oct to Nov

29. Kayseri

29 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey

Central Anatolia's Kayseri, formerly Caesarea in Roman times, is located over the mountains to the west of Cappadocia. It was formerly known as Mazaka and was situated on the foothills of Mount Argaeus, the volcano now known as Erciyes. As a result, Kayseri serves as a bridge between central and sou...

Best Time: May to September

30. Sapanca

30 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 8 Tourist attractions

A town and district in the Sakarya Province of the Marmara region, Sapanca is known for its lakes, plateaus, creeks and lush greenery. This Turkish retreat is merely an hour and a half's drive away from Istanbul and is an excellent weekend retreat if you enjoy the countryside. A natural heritage tha...

31. Icmeler

31 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 5 Tourist attractions

Nestled 8 kms to the southwest of Marmaris, in the Mugla Province, is the resort town of Icmeler. Located on the Datca peninsula, Icmeler is known for stunning landscapes that make an excellent backdrop for paragliding and hiking. This town, in the Aegean region, is surrounded by lush green pine tre...

32. Hisaronu

32 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey

The resort village of Hisaronu is located in the Fethiye district of the Mugla Province in Turkey. Hisaronu is an excellent place for people who like a laid-back vacation. Located on the turquoise coast, this beautiful sea destination is an excellent stop for visitors traveling to the Blue Lagoon in...

33. Sarigerme

33 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey

Sarigerme is a small village close to Dalaman in Turkey, now a prominent neighborhood in Ortaca. It is a tranquil place, perfect for a laid-back getaway. Located 25 minutes from Dalaman and Ortaca, Sarigerme is ideal for unwinding on an extensive holiday. There is much less to do in the village, exc...

Best Time: April to November

34. Nevsehir

34 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey

Nevşehir, nestled within the enchanting landscapes of Cappadocia in central Turkey, stands as a gateway to a world of ancient wonders and captivating natural beauty. It serves as a gateway to the captivating landscapes of Cappadocia, characterized by fairy chimneys, unique rock formations, and ...

35 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey

Ürgüp, nestled within the captivating landscapes of Cappadocia, stands as a cultural gem in the heart of Turkey. This enchanting town, located in the Nevşehir Province, boasts a strategic position amidst the surreal beauty of the region's volcanic rock formations and historic treasures. Renowned for...

36 out of 36 Places to visit in Turkey 14 Tourist attractions

Göreme is a small town nestled in the heart of Cappadocia and is renowned for its unique landscape, featuring fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and rock-cut churches. It's a popular hub for tourists exploring Cappadocia due to its central location, offering accommodations, restaurants, and easy access...

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Turkey Travel Guide: Plan Your Perfect Trip

Written by Jess Lee Updated Sep 24, 2021

Turkey is a destination that offers something for all visitors. During the long, hot summer, tourism is concentrated in Istanbul and along the coast, but even a beach holiday is easily combined with cultural sightseeing, as most of the popular resort towns are within day-trip distance to some of the country's most famous classical-era ruins.

Travel inland from the feted coastline, though, and the true diversity of Turkey is revealed. From vast ruins perched on mountain summits to fresco-covered Byzantine-era cave churches and Ottoman mosques, and hiking trails following ancient pilgrimage paths to the buzzing foodie and café culture of the cities, a vacation in Turkey can effortlessly incorporate both epic history and an incredible variety of landscapes.

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Inspirational ideas for planning your trip to turkey, best time to visit turkey, visitors guide to istanbul, visitors guide to antalya, best towns in turkey, outdoor attractions & activities in turkey, historic highlights of turkey, essential stats & facts, first-time traveler tips for turkey.

Aerial view of Ölüdeniz beach & lagoon

Whether you're planning a trip that concentrates on history, hitting the beach, exploring Turkey's varied countryside or a mix of it all, find out what the highlights are with our overviews on the best places to add to your visit.

  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Turkey
  • Top-Rated Things to Do in Turkey
  • Plan Your Trip to Turkey: Best Itineraries
  • Best Cities in Turkey
  • Best Honeymoon Destinations in Turkey
  • Best Mosques in Turkey
  • Best Things to Do in Winter in Turkey
  • Turkey in Pictures: 17 Beautiful Places to Photograph

Hot-air balloons over Cappadocia

Summer: This is high season in Turkey, when visitors from across Europe fly in for some Mediterranean beach time, and Turks take advantage of the long summer school holiday to head for the sand as well. The resorts all along the coast spring into action, and Istanbul bustles every weekend with visitors on short city breaks.

Blue skies and hot weather prevail across the entire country. In eastern Turkey, temperatures soar. If you want to head to the mountains for hiking, though, or to Mount Nemrut to view the stone heads on the summit, this is the best season to go. Pre-booking hotels in popular tourism destinations (Istanbul, all along the coast, and Cappadocia) is a good idea. Also, expect hotel prices in the above destinations to be at their highest.

Fall: (September and October) This is a great time to visit Turkey. Along the coast, it's less busy, and hotel prices fall, but the weather is still mostly sunny and warm. Once the summer heat has fizzled out, it's perfect sightseeing weather to explore eastern Turkey, with plenty of blue skies still and moderate temperatures (though pack some cold-weather clothes, as the first snow out in the east can hit from mid-October).

Winter: Many resorts along the coast shut up shop completely, and hotels that stay open drop prices substantially. Expect plenty of rain along the coast, and inland to be blanketed in snow. Hotel prices in Istanbul and in Cappadocia are at their lowest, though many travelers specifically travel to Cappadocia during this season to see the fairy chimneys dusted with snow. Ski season begins in November.

Spring: Unless you're visiting specifically for a beach holiday, this is the best season to visit Turkey. Wildflowers cover the countryside, hotel prices in major destinations are still low, and historic sights aren't crowded. Istanbul's public parks are covered in tulips in April. Many hotels in beach towns don't open their doors until May. Mount Nemrut has generally opened for visits by mid-April.

May is one of the best months of the year to travel in eastern Turkey, with moderate temperatures. Do pack your umbrella if traveling in spring, as this is Turkey's rainiest season.

Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) in Sultanahment, Istanbul

Istanbul is a destination in itself. Once Constantinople, the grand capital of both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, it is one of the world's great cities.

Although rightly famed for its historic monuments, Istanbul is also the heartbeat of contemporary, cosmopolitan Turkey with a thriving modern art, music, and cultural scene and the most interesting and varied shopping, dining, and café life in the country.

  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Istanbul
  • Exploring Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya): A Visitor's Guide
  • Exploring Istanbul's Archaeological Museum: A Visitor's Guide
  • Istanbul's Grand Bazaar: Things to Buy & Shopping Tips
  • Best Places for Shopping in Istanbul
  • Top-Rated Day Trips from Istanbul
  • Visiting Troy from Istanbul: Attractions, Tips & Tours
  • Best Beaches near Istanbul
  • Best Parks in Istanbul
  • From Istanbul to Bodrum: Best Ways to Get There
  • From Istanbul to Pamukkale: Best Ways to Get There
  • From Istanbul to Izmir: Best Ways to Get There

Antalya old town's Roman harbor

During the Turkish summer, Antalya is the major gateway city to the Mediterranean shore.

This city isn't just a staging post for hitting the beach, though. Some of Turkey's most famous classical-era ruins including Aspendos, Perge, and the ruins of Side are within easy day-tripping distance, while Antalya is also the perfect starting or ending point for travel itineraries taking in the coastal scenery and historic highlights of Turkey's coastline.

  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Antalya
  • Exploring the Ancient City of Aspendos: A Visitor's Guide
  • From Istanbul to Antalya: Best Ways to Get There

Cobblestone street in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Safranbolu

While the beach towns along the Aegean and Mediterranean grab the most visitors, away from the coast, Turkey's provincial cities and towns offer plenty of historical and cultural sightseeing.

Turkish capital Ankara is home to two of the country's most important monuments. Konya is where the whirling dervishes began, foodie visitors head to Gaziantep simply to eat its world-renowned baklava and to Bursa to sample its Iskender kebap, and Safranbolu is a painstakingly preserved Ottoman-era old town.

Out east, Mardin and Şanlıurfa are two of the most popular bases to explore the rugged landscapes, multi-ethnic heritage, and lonely ruins of eastern Turkey.

For the famous classical-era ruins along the Aegean Coast, Selçuk and Izmir are great bases, while Fethiye and Kaş offer sailing, kayaking, hiking, and many other outdoor activities along with plenty of ruins within day-tripping distance.

Best Towns for the Beach & Outdoor Activities

  • Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Fethiye
  • Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Bodrum
  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kaş
  • Top-Rated Things to Do in Marmaris
  • Top-Rated Things to Do in Alanya
  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Side
  • Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Kuşadası

Best Towns for History & Culture

  • Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Ankara
  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Konya
  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Safranbolu
  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Gaziantep
  • Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Bursa, Turkey
  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Mardin
  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Şanlıurfa
  • Top-Rated Things to Do in Adana, Turkey
  • Top-Rated Things to Do in Edirne, Turkey
  • Top-Rated Attractions in Selçuk & Ephesus

Sailboat anchored off Oludeniz Beach

The calcite travertines of Pamukkale and the fairy chimney landscape of Cappadocia are two of Turkey's most famous landscapes. Both are prime bases for plenty of historic sites and ruins and outdoor activities, including hot-air ballooning, hiking, horse riding, and paragliding.

Down on the coast, the beaches are the main attraction, though activities such as hiking, sailing, kayaking, and paragliding offer plentiful opportunities to get off the sand.

To experience Turkey's most lush landscapes, don't miss adding the Black Sea coast into your itinerary, while the mountains and lakes around Eğirdir are an easy add-on to a coastal trip and provide a glimpse into the variety of Turkey's countryside.

  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cappadocia
  • Hot-Air Ballooning in Cappadocia: A Complete Guide
  • From Istanbul to Cappadocia: Best Ways to Get There
  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Pamukkale
  • Top-Rated Things to Do in Ölüdeniz
  • Top-Rated Beaches in Turkey
  • Top-Rated Attractions on the Black Sea Coast, Turkey
  • Exploring the Sagalassos Ruins and Lake Eğirdir
  • Top-Rated Islands in Turkey

Roman theater in Ephesus

Turkey's history is mind-boggling. Many travelers head here specifically to visit classical-era ruins such as Ephesus, and then realize once here just how much more there is to see.

Archaeological sites here cover the full breadth of human history, from the earliest temple and earliest Neolithic villages ever discovered, right up to the glorious mosques and monuments of the Ottoman era.

  • Visiting Ephesus: Attractions, Tips & Tours
  • Exploring Laodikeia: A Visitor's Guide
  • Exploring Mount Nemrut: A Visitor's Guide
  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Mount Nemrut Region
  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Pergamum & the North Aegean
  • Top-Rated Attractions in Çanakkale, Gallipoli Peninsula & Troy
  • Exploring the Mevlana Museum: A Visitor's Guide
  • Exploring Ancient Olympos & the Chimaera: A Visitor's Guide
  • Visiting the Atatürk Mausoleum (Anıtkabir)
  • Exploring the Top Attractions of Ancient Harran
  • Exploring Gordion, Museum & History
  • A Visitor's Guide to Çatalhöyük: Excavations & History

Pamukkale's calcite travertine

  • Population of Turkey: The population of Turkey is 82 million. Turkey's population has seen dramatic urbanization, with approximately 76 percent of the population living in urban areas. The country's northwest is the most densely populated region with around 20 percent of the population living in Istanbul.
  • Capital of Turkey: The capital of Turkey is Ankara. It has a population of five million.
  • Geography of Turkey: Turkey is the 38th largest country in the world, covering 783,562 square kilometers. Turkey shares borders with eight countries: Bulgaria and Greece to the west; Georgia, Armenia, the Azerbaijan exclave of Nakhichivan, Iran, and Iraq to the east; and Syria to the south.
  • Languages of Turkey: The official language of Turkey is Turkish. Around 10 percent of the population is Kurdish and speak Kurmanji (Northern Kurdish) as well.
  • Currency of Turkey: Turkey's currency is the Turkish Lira
  • Time Zone of Turkey: Turkey's time zone is UTC + 3

Akdamar Island on Lake Van

Tourist Visas: Turkish tourist visas are required and must be purchased pre-arrival through the official e-visa website.

Electricity: Turkey uses two-prong European-style plugs.

Hotel Rates: Hotel rates in Turkey normally include breakfast and Wi-Fi.

Visiting Mosques: Outside of prayer times, mosques in Turkey are open for non-Muslims to visit. Wear modest clothing and always take your shoes off before entering the prayer hall (a shelf for shoes is normally provided at the entrance). Women should don a headscarf before entering. At larger famous mosques, there is usually a bin full of headscarfs you can borrow.

The National Drink: Turkey's national drink is tea, served black in small tulip-shaped glasses. Turkey consumes the most tea in the world, and tea (grown in the Black Sea region) is also one of its most profitable agricultural exports. You will be offered tea everywhere. When using a tea self-service urn (at hotel breakfasts) there is one tap for straight tea and another for hot water. You are supposed to mix it to your required taste. Try one third tea to two thirds water.

Shoes: If you're invited into a home in Turkey, always take your shoes off at the door.

Smoking: In Turkey, smoking is officially banned in all indoor spaces, including restaurants and hotels. The ban is strictly enforced in Istanbul and in areas that receive a lot of tourism (such as the coastal resort towns and Cappadocia) but be aware that it tends to be more loosely adhered to outside of these areas.

Turkey Maps

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Travel to Istanbul: Stepping into a treasure trove of history

Travel & tourism.

Turkey’s port city on Bosphorous is a mosaic of Ottoman architecture and incredible food

Hagia Sophia

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The Greeks called it Byzantium. It was Constantinople in the history books. I know it as Istanbul. The largest city in Turkey languished on my bucketlist for a long time. That was until last week. I flew Turkish Airlines to the city that straddles Europe and Asia, making it a melting pot of cultures.

Istanbul was everything and more than what I had read and imagined. History and culture remained entwined so inextricably that every step was a journey into the past. Three days with Tour Istanbul gave me a glimpse of the Ottoman capital, and I felt that there was much more to the city than I had seen. And when I left, my heart kept saying, “I’ll be back.”

Watch: A swing through to Istanbul

The Bosphorus Sea — the strait linking the Black Sea to the Mediterranean through the Marmara Sea — is central to life in Istanbul. Many Turks cross the waterway every day, living on the Asian coast and working in Europe. And vice versa. So, it was only natural that the strait was crucial to my discovery of Turkey’s largest port city.

Every day, I motored through the Bosphorus Bridge (15 July Martyrs Bridge) and once rode the ferry as we explored the city. But nothing could beat the boat ride through the Bosphorus, which certainly was the highpoint of my stay in Istanbul.

It was a cold, dank morning with mist hovering over the blue waters as I boarded the yacht Kareem Denizcilik at the Uskudar Pier. As the winds picked up speed, my icy cold fingers reached for hot Turkish tea. I braved the elements and stayed outside the cabin on the boat to take in the sights before alighting at the Ciragan Palace Kempinski Hotel.

Bosphorus

There was something magical about the Bosphorus. The undulating waters, the steady stream of ferries, tankers, and cruise ships, the three bridges, and the palaces and heritage buildings on the banks form a kaleidoscope of images that kept playing on a loop. I just stood and watched in awe. It was simply stunning.

I had a sampling of the Bosphorus a couple of days earlier. The dinner at Chacha Balik restaurant on the Asian side and breakfast at Dolmabahce Palace Cafe in Europe were special. What better ambience than the backdrop of the Bosphorus Bridge, although chilly winds drove us indoors? I will also remember it for my first Turkish coffee, sipped between bites of baklavas slathered with cream.

My first trip across the Bosphorus was to the sets of Kurulus: Osman (Establishment Osman). As OTT platforms and web series shrunk the entertainment world, Turkish television series have soared in popularity. After being dubbed into several languages and shown on several networks, the TV series now boast audiences beyond the Arab world and have a worldwide fan base. “It’s become like K-pop. We have Latin Americans coming to the sets,” our guide told us as we drove past the hills to a forested area.

Nestled in a valley of Riva, Beykoz district, are the sets of a village with hut-like structures that brought the Ottoman saga to life. Kurulus: Osman, currently in the fifth season, has been wildly popular after the prequel Dirilis: Ertugrul (Resurrection: Ertugrul) made waves for five years till 2019. The runaway success prompted the producers to turn the sets into a tourist attraction, where visitors dress up in their favourite Alps and Hatun characters and re-enact some scenes. And yes, I got to shake the bloodied hands of the lead actor Burak Ozicivit, who came off after filming a battle scene.

That was my first taste of the Ottoman Empire, which eventually ruled Europe, Asia and the Middle East after coming to power in 1299. The Ottoman past is a recurring theme in Istanbul: two of the three Bosphorus bridges are named after the Ottoman kings Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge and Yavuz Sultan Selim.

The Ottoman palaces and heritage structures bring hordes of tourists to Istanbul. I made it to the Beylerbeyi Palace on the Asian side of the Bosphorus before it closed for the day. Commissioned by Sultan Abdulaziz, the Ottoman-style palace was built between 1861 and 1865 as a summer residence. A pool and fountain are the main features of the reception hall that hosted heads of state.

I caught a glimpse of the Dolmabahce Palace on the European coast, the largest monoblock palace in Turkey at 45,000sqm. Since a visit was not on the agenda, I missed seeing the fusion of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Ottoman styles of architecture.

The Bosphorus Bridge

A walk through the streets of Kuzguncuk in Uskudar district brought me face-to-face with buildings from another era. Painted wooden houses, plane trees, cafes and patisseries lined the steep roads of Kuzguncuk, which faces the Black Sea on the Asian coast. Home to a mix of Turks, Armenians, Greeks and Jews, the Kuzguncuk residents are called the Brotherhood of Religions, as the neighbourhood houses mosques, synagogues and churches.

I swung by the Galata port one morning before hitting the hippest neighbourhood in Istanbul. Karakoy was indeed a surprise packet. A bustling area with sheesha cafes, taverns, cake shops, designer boutiques and street art, the neighbourhood has a vibrant vibe, which I’m sure will be ramped up when night falls and multi-hued bulbs light up the street.

A trip to Istanbul would be incomplete without a visit to Hagia Sophia, which is a mosque and museum. So after hurrying to the Hippodrome in Sultan Ahmet Square to see the Obelisk of Theodosius (the Egyptian obelisk of Pharoah Thutmose III was re-erected in Constantinople by the Roman emperor Theodosius I in the 4th century), I quickly scurried across the see the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

The mosques of Instanbul

Turkish mosques are different, with distinct flat, semi-circular domes and thin, tall spires. They are beautiful. A quick Google reference tells me that they reflect Ottoman architectural styles with Byzantine influence. I had earlier seen the impressive Dolmabahce Mosque on the waterfront, the ornate Nusreti Mosque, the imposing New Mosque (Yeni Camii) and later the Taksim Mosque.

After a decent into the cavernous Basilica Cistern, a subterranean Byzantine water storage structure built in 532, I headed to Taksim Square to see the Republic Monument. That was followed by a stroll down Istiklal Street, which reminded me of Meyondong Street in Seoul. But bigger and with more people. At times, it felt as if a sea of humanity was coming towards me. I was jolted out of the stupor by the clanging bell of an old tram that trundled by.

Earlier, I had studiously avoided shopping while wandering through the Egyptian Spice Bazaar, packed with shoppers and tourists. A trip to the Grand Bazaar was scrapped, so it made sense to shop at Istiklal Street. I picked up some baklavas on the way, having gorged on them in the past few days.

Turkish television series

I’ve had baklavas in the past, but these were so much better. Not just baklavas, Turkish food generally sent my restraint out of the window. I avoid bread, but simit (sesame-encrusted round bread) was sensational. And cheese, so many different types. I love Turkish kebabs, but the national dish of sucuk or sujuk (spicy beef sausage) was so delicious that I ditched the kebabs. I tucked into some Ali Nazik (lamb stew) too.

The food was so good that I dreaded stepping on a weighing scale. Istanbul was indeed a gastronomic delight. It will stay with me, along with the sights and sounds of the Bosphorus.

Byzantium, Constantinople or Istanbul, the name doesn’t matter. With its culture and heritage, the throbbing city is a must-see destination. History stalks you at every step.

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Istanbul: Stepping into a treasure trove of history

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Travel + Leisure

This City Was the World's Most Visited in 2023

Twenty million people flew to Istanbul last year.

There’s something distinctly magical about the soft light of Istanbul. The sun seems to hover in a totally different way there, casting what appears to be a forever golden hour glow. Perhaps that’s part of the reason more than 20 million people flew to the ancient Turkish city in 2023. 

Or, maybe it’s for sights like the Hagia Sophia. Or perhaps it’s to shop in the Grand Bazaar or stay in the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, voted the number one hotel in the world by Travel + Leisure readers in the 2023 World’s Best Awards . And I mean, come on, of course, people also go for the baklava.  

Whatever the reason, people truly seem to be flocking to Istanbul. And those more than 20 million arrivals made it the number one city for international arrivals on earth in 2023, according to Euromonitor International’s World’s Top 100 City Destinations report. 

“International travel has continued to make a strong recovery in 2023, with 38 percent growth in terms of the number of trips, projected to reach 1.3 billion by the end of the year,” the report’s findings stated. “Istanbul tops the list for the number of International arrivals in 2023 with 26 percent growth year-on-year.” 

Istanbul was followed by London in second place for most international arrivals (up 17 percent) and Dubai in third (up 18 percent). Rounding out the top five is the beachside Turkish city of Antalya, followed by Paris in fifth. 

The report noted that a good deal of international travel’s recovery in 2023 can be credited to the return of Chinese international travel after that nation lifted its quarantine. In return, Hong Kong saw a massive resurgence in international arrivals too, marking a 2,495 percent increase in 2023. 

And 2024 may be a bigger year than ever for travel to Istanbul and the entire nation. In January, Turkey relaxed its visa requirements for North Americans (Canadians and Americans included), allowing them to travel visa-free for up to 90 days.

“Americans vacationing in Türkiye no longer require a visa to visit what has become one of America’s favorite overseas travel destinations,” Go Türkiye previously shared with T+L. “2023 was the best year ever for American tourism to Türkiye, and with the cancellation of the visa requirement, 2024 is expected to be even bigger.”

The only downside is you’ll likely have to make reservations to all the must-see spots even earlier or wait in longer lines. But again, that’s OK. You can just pop into a cafe for a second helping of baklava. 

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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .

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    🚢 Enjoy the city view with live music and stage performances on this cruise with private tables; 🚶 Discover the Basilica Cistern beneath the streets of Istanbul with a guided tour; 🕌 Enter the magnificent Hagia Sophia, which is the world's largest place of worship, built by Emperor Justinian in 532 AD on this tour; 🍲 Eat your way through Istanbul and sample Turkish delicacies ...

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    It is an industrial city, a commercial city, and a tourist city. Many local and foreign visitors come to see the historic buildings. Bursa. How many days do you need in Bursa? ... Aydin is a wonderful city in Turkey's Aegean Region, with a population of 1,068,260. There are 17 districts connected to the city center.

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    The city of Gaziantep is one of southeastern Turkey's great highlights for a few days of guzzling Gaziantep's renowned baklava and strolling the alleys of its old city district, but its most famous attraction is the Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum. The museum contains both one of the largest and most important mosaic collections in the world.

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    A meze dish Feast on meze and fish. The "rakı-balık" night is a quintessential Turkish dining experience, particularly in Istanbul and along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. What some call the national drink of Turkey, rakı is a strong anise-flavoured liqueur typically mixed with water and ice, and balık is fish. Such meals typically start with an assortment of meze, which are ...

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  15. Tourism in Turkey

    Destinations Istanbul Dolmabahçe Palace is a popular tourism destination in Turkey. Ortaköy Mosque and the Bosphorus Bridge. Istanbul is one of the most important tourist spots not only in Turkey but also in the world. There are thousands of hotels and other tourist-oriented industries in the city. Turkey's largest city, Istanbul has a number of major attractions derived from its historical ...

  16. Top 5 Cities to Visit in Turkey, where to go and what to see

    It is a modern jungle city popular with tourists and, although it may seem differently at first glance, it is a symbol of independece and Western values. ... we suggest you contact one of the tourist agencies in Turkey, they will be glad to help you. Best, GBB Team. Reply. Akhila • 2022-05-14T08:07:33+01:00. skip ankara …

  17. 36 Places To Visit In Turkey

    Tourist attractions The city of Adana is situated on the banks of the Seyhan River, around 35 kms from the northeastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Housing vast Cilician Plains, Adana is the fourth largest and one of the most populous places in Turkey. It is not a major tourist location in Turkey, but it is frequen...

  18. Home

    VISIT TURKEY - OFFICIAL TRAVEL GUIDE TO TURKEY. Plan your holiday in Turkey with free guides and videos. Learn about Istanbul, Ephesus, Cappadocia, Antalya, Turquoise Coast, where to stay, walking, fishing and more.

  19. Turkey Travel Guide: Plan Your Perfect Trip

    Best Time to Visit Turkey Hot-air balloons over Cappadocia. Summer: This is high season in Turkey, when visitors from across Europe fly in for some Mediterranean beach time, and Turks take advantage of the long summer school holiday to head for the sand as well.The resorts all along the coast spring into action, and Istanbul bustles every weekend with visitors on short city breaks.

  20. Travel to Istanbul: Stepping into a treasure trove of history

    Turkey's port city on Bosphorous is a mosaic of Ottoman architecture and incredible food Published: March 11, 2024 18:55 Shyam A. Krishna, Senior Associate Editor Follow us

  21. What travelers to Turkey need to know

    In 2021, Turkey's travel and tourism sector contribution to GDP was $59.3 billion, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council. The World Bank says that the quakes have caused around $34 ...

  22. This City Was the World's Most Visited in 2023

    Istanbul was followed by London in second place for most international arrivals (up 17 percent) and Dubai in third (up 18 percent). Rounding out the top five is the beachside Turkish city of ...

  23. Greece and Turkey to restart bi-lateral talks

    Greece and Turkey have restarted diplomatic talks, with Deputy Foreign Minister Ambassador Alexandra Papadopoulou and Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Ambassador Burak Akçapar meeting today March 11 in Ankara in the context of the two countries Foreign Ministries' political dialogue. The meeting will focus on the Greek-Turkish bilateral relations as well as on the regional and international

  24. COVID-19 Information

    Last Updated: December 7, 2022. The CDC's Order requiring proof of vaccination for non-U.S. citizen nonimmigrants to travel to the United States is still in effect. For more information see Requirement for Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination for Air Passengers.. Check the CDC website for additional information and Frequently Asked Questions. Entry and Exit Requirements