Turkey Attractions: A Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Turkey

Istanbul: The City of Two Continents

Istanbul is the largest and most populous city in Turkey, and one of the most visited cities in the world. It is also the only city in the world that spans two continents: Europe and Asia. Istanbul is a melting pot of cultures, religions, and civilizations, and has a history that dates back to ancient times. Istanbul is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in Turkey, such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar, and the Bosphorus Strait. Istanbul is also a modern and cosmopolitan city, with a vibrant nightlife, a diverse culinary scene, and a lively arts and culture sector.

Some of the best things to do in Istanbul are:

• Visit the Hagia Sophia, a former church and mosque that is now a museum, and admire its stunning architecture and mosaics.
• Explore the Blue Mosque, a 17th-century mosque that is famous for its six minarets and blue tiles.
• Wander around the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman sultans, and see the lavish rooms, gardens, and treasures.
• Shop at the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, and haggle for souvenirs, carpets, jewelry, and spices.
• Cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, the waterway that separates Europe and Asia, and enjoy the views of the city skyline, bridges, and palaces.
• Experience the Turkish culture and cuisine, by trying some of the local delicacies, such as kebabs, baklava, Turkish coffee, and tea, and watching a whirling dervish show or a belly dance performance.

Cappadocia: The Land of Fairy Chimneys

Cappadocia is a region in central Turkey that is known for its unique and surreal landscape, formed by volcanic eruptions and erosion over millions of years. Cappadocia is famous for its fairy chimneys, which are cone-shaped rock formations that dot the valleys and hills. Cappadocia is also renowned for its cave dwellings, churches, and underground cities, that were carved by ancient civilizations and used as shelters and hiding places. Cappadocia is one of the best places to visit in Turkey for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers.

Some of the best things to do in Cappadocia are:

• Take a hot air balloon ride over the fairy chimneys, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the sunrise and the landscape.
• Visit the Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see the rock-cut churches and frescoes that date back to the 10th century.
• Explore the Kaymakli Underground City, one of the largest and deepest underground cities in Cappadocia, and learn about the history and lifestyle of the people who lived there.
• Hike in the Rose Valley, one of the most scenic and colorful valleys in Cappadocia, and see the rock formations, caves, and churches.
• Stay in a cave hotel, and experience the authentic and cozy atmosphere of living in a cave.

Ephesus: The Ancient City of Wonders

Ephesus is an ancient city in western Turkey that was once one of the most important and prosperous cities in the Roman Empire. Ephesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the best-preserved classical cities in the world. Ephesus is a must-see attraction in Turkey for history and archaeology enthusiasts, as it showcases the remnants of the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations. Ephesus is also a sacred site for Christians, as it is believed to be the final resting place of the Virgin Mary, and the location of one of the seven churches of Revelation.

Some of the best things to do in Ephesus are:

• Marvel at the Library of Celsus, the most impressive and iconic structure in Ephesus, and one of the largest and most beautiful libraries in the ancient world.
• Walk along the Marble Street, the main street of Ephesus, and see the shops, houses, and monuments that lined the street.
• See the Temple of Hadrian, one of the most ornate and well-preserved temples in Ephesus, and admire its facade and reliefs.
• Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a small stone house that is believed to be where Mary spent her last years, and a pilgrimage site for Christians.
• Watch a performance at the Great Theatre, a massive amphitheater that could seat up to 25,000 people, and was used for gladiator fights, theatrical shows, and political events.

Pamukkale: The Cotton Castle

Pamukkale is a natural wonder in southwestern Turkey that is famous for its white travertine terraces, formed by the mineral-rich waters that flow from the hot springs. Pamukkale means “cotton castle” in Turkish, and the name aptly describes the appearance of the terraces, which look like a snowy hillside. Pamukkale is one of the most popular attractions in Turkey, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the nearby ancient city of Hierapolis. Pamukkale is a great place to visit in Turkey for relaxation, wellness, and sightseeing.

Some of the best things to do in Pamukkale are:

• Soak in the thermal pools, and enjoy the healing and soothing effects of the water, which is rich in calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonate.
• Explore the ruins of Hierapolis, an ancient city that was founded as a spa town, and see the necropolis, the theater, the temple of Apollo, and the martyrion of St. Philip.
• Visit the Pamukkale Museum, and see the artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Pamukkale and Hierapolis.
• Watch the sunset over the terraces, and admire the changing colors and reflections of the water and the sky.

Antalya: The Turkish Riviera

Antalya is a city on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, and the capital of the Antalya Province. Antalya is the largest and most popular tourist destination in Turkey, and is nicknamed the “Turkish Riviera” for its sunny climate, sandy beaches, and turquoise waters. Antalya is also a city with a rich and diverse history, dating back to the ancient times, and has many historical and cultural attractions to offer. Antalya is the perfect place to visit in Turkey for beach lovers, sun seekers, and culture vultures.

Some of the best things to do in Antalya are:

• Relax on the Konyaalti Beach, one of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Antalya, and enjoy the sun, sea, and sand.
• Visit the Antalya Museum, one of the best and most comprehensive museums in Turkey, and see the collections of artifacts, sculptures, mosaics, and coins from various periods and civilizations.
• Explore the Kaleici, the old town of Antalya, and see the charming and colorful houses, shops, cafes, and mosques.
• See the Hadrian’s Gate, a monumental arch that was built in honor of the Roman emperor Hadrian, and marks the entrance to the old town.
• Experience the Duden Waterfalls, a scenic and spectacular waterfall that cascades into the Mediterranean Sea, and creates a natural pool.

Mount Nemrut: The Mountain of Gods

Mount Nemrut is a 2,134-meter-high mountain in southeastern Turkey that is known for its extraordinary archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. On the summit of the mountain, there are huge statues of ancient gods and kings, dating back to the 1st century BC, when the mountain was the royal tomb of King Antiochus I of the Commagene Kingdom. The statues, which are about 10 meters tall, represent Greek, Armenian, and Iranian deities, as well as Antiochus himself, and symbolize the cultural and religious syncretism of the kingdom. The statues are surrounded by a tumulus of stone chips, which is believed to cover the actual tomb of Antiochus. Mount Nemrut is one of the most impressive and mysterious attractions in Turkey, and offers a spectacular view of the sunrise and the sunset.

Some of the best things to do at Mount Nemrut are:

• Admire the statues of the gods and kings, and see their different expressions and features.
• Learn about the history and culture of the Commagene Kingdom, and its relations with the Roman Empire and the Parthian Empire.
• Enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, and the Euphrates River.
• Watch the sunrise or the sunset from the east or the west terrace, and see how the light changes the colors and the mood of the statues.

Ölüdeniz: The Blue Paradise

Ölüdeniz is a beach resort in southwestern Turkey, and one of the most popular and beautiful destinations in the country. Ölüdeniz means “dead sea” in Turkish, and refers to the calm and crystal-clear blue lagoon that is separated from the open sea by a narrow sandbar. The lagoon is a natural park, and a protected area for its flora and fauna. Ölüdeniz is also famous for its paragliding activities, as it is located near the Babadağ Mountain, which offers a perfect spot for launching and landing. Ölüdeniz is a paradise for beach lovers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.

Some of the best things to do at Ölüdeniz are:

• Swim, sunbathe, or relax on the sandy beach, or the pebbly beach of the lagoon, and enjoy the turquoise water and the green scenery.
• Try paragliding from the Babadağ Mountain, and experience the thrill and the beauty of flying over the lagoon and the sea.
• Visit the Butterfly Valley, a secluded and scenic valley that is home to many species of butterflies, and a waterfall.
• Take a boat trip to the nearby islands, coves, and caves, and explore the marine life and the natural wonders.

Aspendos: The Ancient Theater

Aspendos is an ancient city in southern Turkey, and one of the best-preserved and most impressive Roman sites in the country. Aspendos was founded by the Greeks in the 7th century BC, and later became part of the Roman Empire in the 2nd century AD. Aspendos is famous for its theater, which is considered to be one of the best-preserved and most magnificent Roman theaters in the world. The theater could seat up to 15,000 people, and had a remarkable acoustics and architecture. The theater is still used today for cultural events and festivals, such as the Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival. Aspendos also has other ancient monuments, such as a basilica, an aqueduct, a stadium, and a temple.

Some of the best things to do at Aspendos are:

• See the theater, and admire its facade, stage, seats, and decorations.
• Watch a performance at the theater, and enjoy the atmosphere and the sound quality.
• Explore the other ruins of the city, and learn about the history and culture of Aspendos.
• Visit the nearby Aspendos Bridge, a Roman bridge that crosses the Eurymedon River, and see the ancient inscriptions and reliefs.

Safranbolu: The Ottoman Heritage

Safranbolu is a town in northern Turkey, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994. Safranbolu is a well-preserved example of the traditional Ottoman architecture and culture, and has a history that dates back to the 13th century. Safranbolu is named after the saffron, a valuable spice that was cultivated and traded in the region. Safranbolu has many historical and cultural attractions, such as the old houses, the mosques, the bazaars, the hammams, the caravanserais, and the museums. Safranbolu is a charming and authentic town, and a great place to experience the Ottoman lifestyle and cuisine.

Some of the best things to do at Safranbolu are:

• Stay in a konak, a traditional Ottoman house that has been converted into a guesthouse, and enjoy the hospitality and the comfort.
• Visit the Çarşı, the old town of Safranbolu, and see the wooden houses, the cobblestone streets, and the shops.
• Shop at the Arasta Bazaar, a covered market that sells handicrafts, souvenirs, and saffron products.
• Relax at a hammam, a Turkish bath, and enjoy the steam, the massage, and the scrub.
• Taste the local delicacies, such as the saffron rice pudding, the lokum, the baklava, and the çörek.

Ankara: The Capital of Turkey

Ankara is the capital and the second-largest city of Turkey, and the center of the Turkish government, administration, and diplomacy. Ankara is a modern and dynamic city, with a history that spans over 3,000 years. Ankara has many historical and cultural attractions, such as the Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which displays artifacts from various ancient cultures that inhabited Anatolia, the Ankara Castle, a medieval citadel that overlooks the city, and the Kocatepe Mosque, a large and elegant mosque that is a symbol of the city. Ankara is also a city with a lively and diverse social life, with many cafes, restaurants, bars, and parks.

Some of the best things to do in Ankara are:

• Visit the Anıtkabir, and pay respect to Atatürk, the father of the Turks, and see the museum, the hall of honor, and the ceremonial plaza.
• Explore the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, and see the collections of artifacts, sculptures, pottery, jewelry, and coins from various periods and civilizations, such as the Hittites, the Phrygians, the Urartians, and the Lydians.
• See the Ankara Castle, and admire the views of the city from the walls, and the old houses and shops inside the castle.
• Pray at the Kocatepe Mosque, or admire its architecture and interior, which features four minarets, a dome, marble columns, and stained glass windows.
• Enjoy the Turkish cuisine and culture, by trying some of the local specialties, such as the Ankara tavası, a lamb stew, the döner kebab, a meat dish, the ayran, a yogurt drink, and the baklava, a sweet pastry.

Bodrum: The Pearl of the Aegean

Bodrum is a coastal town in southwestern Turkey, and one of the most popular and attractive destinations in the country. Bodrum is a town with a rich and colorful history, dating back to the ancient times, when it was known as Halicarnassus, and was the birthplace of Herodotus, the father of history. Bodrum is famous for its castle, which was built by the Knights of St. John in the 15th century, and houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which displays artifacts and shipwrecks from various eras and regions. Bodrum is also a town with a vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere, with a lively nightlife, a diverse culinary scene, and a charming marina.

Some of the best things to do in Bodrum are:

• See the Bodrum Castle, and explore its towers, courtyards, and dungeons, and see the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which exhibits artifacts and shipwrecks from the Bronze Age, the Classical Age, the Byzantine Age, and the Ottoman Age.
• Visit the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and see the remains of the monumental tomb of King Mausolus, and the statues and reliefs that decorated it.
• Enjoy the beach and the sea, and swim, sunbathe, or relax on the sandy or pebbly beaches, or the wooden platforms, and enjoy the turquoise water and the green scenery.
• Try the water sports and activities, such as sailing, windsurfing, diving, snorkeling, fishing, or boating, and explore the marine life and the natural wonders.
• Experience the nightlife and the cuisine, and party at the bars, clubs, and discos, or dine at the restaurants, cafes, and taverns, and try some of the local delicacies, such as the meze, a variety of appetizers, the seafood, the köfte, a meatball dish, and the raki, an anise-flavored drink.

Gaziantep: The Gastronomy Capital

Gaziantep is a city in southeastern Turkey, and one of the oldest and most culturally rich cities in the country. Gaziantep is a city with a history that dates back to the Hittite Empire, and has been influenced by various civilizations, such as the Assyrians, the Persians, the Romans, the Byzantines, the Seljuks, the Mongols, the Ottomans, and the French. Gaziantep is famous for its cuisine, which is considered to be one of the best and most diverse in Turkey, and has been recognized by UNESCO as a Creative City of Gastronomy. Gaziantep is also known for its baklava, a sweet pastry that is made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and syrup, and is regarded as the best in the country.

Some of the best things to do in Gaziantep are:

• Taste the cuisine and the baklava, and try some of the local specialties, such as the beyran, a lamb and rice soup, the lahmacun, a thin crust pizza with meat and vegetables, the kebabs, the dolma, stuffed vegetables, and the katmer, a thin pastry with cheese and pistachios.
• Visit the Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum, the largest mosaic museum in the world, and see the stunning and colorful mosaics that date back to the Roman and Byzantine periods, and depict mythological scenes, animals, and portraits.
• See the Gaziantep Castle, a medieval fortress that was used as a defense and a prison, and learn about the history and the culture of Gaziantep, and the heroic resistance of the people during the Turkish War of Independence.
• Explore the Bakırcılar Çarşısı, the copper market, and see the craftsmen who make and sell various copper products, such as pots, pans, trays, and ornaments.
• Experience the culture and the festivals, and watch a shadow puppet show, a traditional form of entertainment, or join the celebrations of the Gaziantep Culture and Art Festival, or the Pistachio Festival.

Conclusion

Turkey is a country that has something for everyone, and is a great destination to visit for any traveler. Turkey has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and a variety of experiences to offer. Whether you are looking for historical sites, scenic landscapes, vibrant cities, or relaxing beaches, Turkey has it all. In this article, we have explored some of the best attractions in Turkey, and given you some tips on how to make the most of your trip. We hope you have enjoyed reading this article, and that you have found it useful and informative.