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10 Best Places to Visit in Turkey

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on April 30, 2024

Steeped in history with a landscape that encompasses beaches and soaring mountains, Turkey has acted as the gateway between Europe and Asia for thousands of years. Being a place of trade and of exchanging cultures has made Turkey a richly diverse country. The point where East meets West, the wealth of culture and breadth of influences has left its mark and is revealed in the country’s mouthwatering culinary landscape, as well as in the innumerable religious monuments and archaeological sites.

Istanbul, once the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, features prominently in most travel plans but there are many more great destinations. You could enjoy your time here staying in boutique hotels inside caves and floating in hot air balloons above the otherworldly landscape of Cappadocia, wandering in the midst of the Greco-Roman world in Ephesus, or simply soaking up the sun in the luxury beach resorts along the Aegean Sea. Here’s a look at the best places to visit in Turkey:

10. Ankara [SEE MAP]

Turkey’s capital city, Ankara, is a sprawling, modern city home to government buildings, commercial businesses, universities and foreign embassies. Located right in the center of the country and the Anatolia region, Ankara is an important transportation hub, linking nationals and tourists alike to other major destinations in Turkey. However, Ankara is not all business. This bustling city also offers a few historic sites and some arts and culture.

An old city once inhabited by various cultures including Hittite, Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman, Ankara is riddled with ancient structures and ruins reflecting its history. Some of the most notable of these are the Temple of Augustus, the Citadel, and a Roman Theatre. Numerous historic mosques can also be found throughout the city. An important 20th century landmark, Anitkabir, is a mausoleum housing the tomb of Turkey’s first President, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

Ankara boasts a lively arts and culture scene with a large concentration of theaters and museums, including the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which houses more than 200,000 objects. Traditional markets and modern malls provide fantastic shopping choices where items such as fresh produce, spices, carpets and electronics can all be purchased.

9. Mardin [SEE MAP]

Perched on a strategic hilltop overlooking the plains of Mesopotamia in southeastern Turkey, Mardin is the capital of the Mardin Province. One of the oldest settlements in the region, Mardin is best known for its cultural diversity and Old City of sandstone buildings that cascade down the hill.

Mardin’s Old City is easily toured by walking. The maze of meandering streets leads visitors along terraced houses and popular sites like Deyrü’z-Zafaran Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in the world, and the Sultan Isa Medresesi, a medieval monument that once served as an astronomical observatory. Zinciriye Medresesi, a 14th century Islamic school, features beautiful courtyards and art works.

The Great Mosque, with its soaring minaret, is hard to miss. Although closed to the public, the citadel presents fantastic photo opportunities. Throughout the Old City is a myriad of shops selling the likes of pottery, silverware, leather and traditional headdresses.

8. Konya [SEE MAP]

One of the oldest cities in the world and best known for its remarkable Seljuk architecture and Whirling Dervishes, Konya is a large city in Turkey’s Central Anatolia Region. In the 12th and 13th centuries, Konya prospered as a capital city under the rule of the Seljuk Dynasty. Today, attractive buildings from that era can still be admired such as the Alaeddin Mosque, which houses the tombs of several sultans. Another popular example is the Ince Minare Medrese, now a museum displaying artifacts from the Seljuk and Ottoman eras.

Although in ruins, the Seljuk Palace is also worth a visit. A modern day architectural attraction is the Seljuk Tower, one of the tallest skyscrapers in Turkey, featuring a revolving restaurant at the top two floors.

In the 13th century, Konya was the home of the Persian theologian and Sufi mystic, Rumi. His tomb, the Mausoleum of Rumi, with its neighboring Melvana Museum, is a must-see site in Konya. Rumi’s followers founded the Mevlevi Order, which are also known as the Whirling Dervishes due to their famous religious ceremonies in which they spin around and around on the left foot while wearing white, billowing gowns. These ceremonies, also known as Sama, can be observed weekly at the Mevlana Cultural Centre.

Konya also offers beautiful green spaces and parks such as Alaeddin Hill, in the city center, and the Japanese Park with its lovely pagodas, waterfalls and ponds.

Because Konya is one of Turkey’s more conservative cities, bars and nightclubs are not as plentiful. However, some hotels and cafes do offer alcoholic drinks.

7. Antalya [SEE MAP]

Nestled along the beautiful Turkish Riviera on the Mediterranean coastline, Antalya is a large, vibrant city welcoming tourists with numerous resorts, hotels, bars and restaurants. Spectacular scenery frames the city with gorgeous beaches and lush green mountains dotted with ancient ruins. From swimming and sailing to mountain climbing, sightseeing and family fun, Antalya offers something for everyone.

A walk around Kaleiçi, the Old Quarter, offers a step back into the city’s ancient past with views of the old city walls, Roman gates, maze-like streets and historic structures that include the Clock Tower and beautiful, old churches, mosques and temples. At the heart of the Old Quarter is the Cumhuriyet Square, surrounded by shops, cafes, Turkish baths and street performers.

Antalya’s main beaches, Konyaalti and Lara, offer white sands, water sports, resorts, bars and restaurants. Nearby the beaches are water parks, amusement parks and a zoo. Several museums exhibit artifacts and relics from the area, including the award-winning Antalya Museum.

6. Marmaris [SEE MAP]

One of Turkey’s most popular seaside resorts, Marmaris is a picture-perfect setting of pine-clad mountains, sandy white beaches, turquoise waters and historic architecture. Located along the Turkish Riviera in southwest Turkey, this stunning cruise port is a tourist paradise with exceptional sightseeing opportunities, water sports, fantastic dining and buzzing nightlife.

Marmaris presents so much to see and do that visitors will be spoiled for choice. A walk along the cobblestone streets of the old quarter offers attractive architecture and a visit to the 16th century Castle of Suleyman the Magnificent. Various boating tours take visitors exploring around the picturesque bays and neighboring villages.

Horse safaris canter through lush pine forests, orange groves, traditional villages and around untouched bays and stunning waterfalls, while jeep safaris present off-the-beaten-track adventures.

Marmaris also features water parks for the whole family and Turkish baths for total pampering and relaxation. If that is not enough, there are a number of day trips from Marmaris to outstanding destinations like Dalyan, Ephesus, Pamukkale and Cleopatra Island.

The nightlife scene in Marmaris is one of Turkey’s most exciting. There are hundreds of restaurants featuring cuisines from all over the world from fast food to fine dining. Bars and clubs are found throughout the city and along the beaches. Not to be missed are the Turkish Night Show venues, which feature traditional Turkish food, mezes and belly dancing.

5. Side [SEE MAP]

A major port in ancient Pamphylia and occupied by Alexander the Great in 4th century BC, Side today is a picturesque town of classic ruins and modern day resorts overlooking sandy white beaches. Located on Turkey’s Mediterranean Coast in the Antalya Province on a small peninsula, Side offers fantastic sightseeing, nightlife and outdoor adventure.

Side’s star attraction is an excavated site of ancient Hellenistic and Roman ruins that include the remnants of a colossal amphitheater, an agora, a Byzantine basilica, public baths, marble columns and various temples. The Roman baths are now restored to house a museum, which displays a number of Roman statues and artifacts. Overlooking the beach, the Temple of Apollo is a spectacular sight, especially at sunset.

Featuring narrow streets and attractive gardens, the charming town of Side offers many restaurants ranging from delis and pizza shops to upscale dining in a variety of cuisines. Just outside of town, the Manavgat River offers boat tours, white water rafting and impressive waterfalls.

4. Bodrum [SEE MAP]

Located in the Mugla Povince in the southern Aegean region of Turkey, Bodrum is the site of the ancient fortified city, Halicarnassus, which was once home to marble buildings, temples, statutes, paved streets and the Mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

After falling into ruins, the city remained a quiet fishing village until the 20th century when Turkish intellectuals brought popularity to it through their writings. Today, Bodrum’s intriguing ruins, stunning beaches and cliff-top resorts attract people from all over the world.

On Bodrum’s eastern side, tourists will find a beautiful beach overlooking brilliant blue water. Near the beach are plenty of cafes, bars and nightclubs. On the western side of town is the marina, shopping centers and restaurants.

No visit to Bodrum would be complete without seeing the Castle of St. Peter, also known as Bodrum Castle. Built from 1402 by the Knights Hospitaller it now operates as a museum. Other sights include the last remains of the Mausoleum, and ancient amphitheater and the Myndos Gate, which was once the scene of a bloody battle during a siege by Alexander the Great.

Besides sightseeing, other things to see and do in Bodrum include the award-winning Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology which is housed inside Bodrum Castle, historic windmills, Turkish saunas and mud baths, windsurfing, scuba diving and boat tours that feature nightclubs and glass-bottomed dance floors.

3. Ephesus [SEE MAP]

Europe’s most complete classical metropolis, Ephesus is an ancient site located in Aegean Turkey. By the 1st century BC, Ephesus was one of the largest cities in all of the Roman Empire, boasting one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis. The ruins of Ephesus are well preserved and contained within a large archaeological site, making it one of Turkey’s most popular tourist attractions.

Ephesus was declared a Roman settlement in 133 BC, although it did not reach its peak until some 200 years later. At one point, when the city was the capital of Roman Asia Minor, Ephesus housed more than 250,000 permanent residents. St.Paul lived in Ephesus, fostering Christianity among many other religions. With the decline of the harbor of Ephesus, and the sacking of the city by Germanic Goths in the third century, Ephesus began its decline.

For roughly 1,500 years, Ephesus was all but forgotten. The remnants of this incredible classical city were hidden from the world until the 1860s, when an international team of archeologists began unearthing the ruins. Today, less than 20 percent of Ephesus has been excavated, but it is still one of the largest accessible archeological sites in the world.

Without question, the most famous structure in Ephesus is the Temple of Artemis. The temple was once the largest on the planet, showcasing just how important the city of Ephesus was. Unfortunately, the temple itself was largely destroyed around the fifth century, but it is still possible to tour the ruins.

Some of the most recently excavated attractions in Ephesus, and certainly some of the most popular, are the Terraced Houses. These were the homes of the richest residents of Ephesus in approximately the first century, and they were built in a modern Roman style.

Remarkably, some of the homes had hot and cold baths, marble floors and even heating systems. On the walls, you can spot unusual artwork, mosaics and even love poems scrawled by hand.

No trip to Ephesus would be complete without seeing the famed Library of Celsus. Built in 123 AD, the library was once of the largest libraries in the ancient world, coming in third after the libraries of Alexandria and Pergamum. The library has been restored, making it easier to see its two-story design, its columns and its capitals.

Be sure to admire the four statues that represent the four virtues. While these are now replica statues, and not the originals, you can still see Sophia, representing wisdom, Episteme, representing knowledge, Ennoia, representing thought, and Arete, representing goodness.

Just two miles from Ephesus is the town of Selçuk, where many visitors choose to spend time before or after exploring the ruins of Ephesus. In the center of Selçuk, you might want to stop and admire the Roman aqueduct that once supplied water to the city, or you could learn a little more about the archeology of the region by exploring the collections at the Museum of Ephesus. You can also browse at the market or pick up double knot carpets, the most popular souvenir from the area.

2. Cappadocia [SEE MAP]

Situated in Central Anatolia of Turkey, Cappadocia is best known for its fairytale landscape of unusual formations resembling chimneys, cones, mushrooms and pinnacles. Natural processes such as ancient volcanic eruptions and erosion have all sculpted these odd formations over the ages, with some of them rising as much as 130 feet (40 meters) high. However, thousands of years ago, mankind added remarkable touches to the landscape by carving out houses, churches and underground cities from the soft rock.

Inhabited as early as 1800 BC, Hittites and other residents chiseled out underground tunnel complexes, seeking safety from invading Persians and Greeks. Much later in the 4th century AD, Christians, fleeing out of religious persecution from Rome, sought refuge in Cappadocia’s tunnels and caves. Today, the region’s natural wonders and historic sites all make it a popular destination.

While much of Cappadocia is located in the province of Nevsehir, some of the main towns in the region are Ürgüp, Göreme, Avanos, Ortahisar and Mustafapasa. Many of these towns offer hotels, restaurants, nightlife options and attractions such as museums, rock castles, fairy chimneys, underground tunnels, old Greek villages, monasteries and handicraft markets. Some of the caves in the region are actually hotels and cater to tourists.

1. Istanbul [SEE MAP]

Once serving as the capital of the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires, Istanbul today is the largest city in Turkey and one of the largest in the world. Istanbul stretches across both sides of the Bosphorus, a narrow strait that connects Asia and Europe, making it the only city in the world spanning two continents. Impressive architecture, historic sites, dining, shopping, nightlife and exotic atmosphere all make Istanbul one of the world’s top tourist destinations.

See also: Where to Stay in Istanbul

The Old City is where most of the city’s impressive historic sites are found, which include the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Another important district is New City, known for its modern day attractions, skyscrapers and shopping malls. Beyoglu and Galata are popular zones for nightlife and entertainment, while the Bosphorus area is home to beautiful palaces, waterfront mansions and urban parks.

There is no shortage of exciting things to see and do in Istanbul . A shopping affair not to be missed is the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. Visiting a Turkish bath is also a great way to experience the local culture. The nightlife scene in Istanbul abounds in numerous restaurants, pubs and nightclubs to suit every budget and preference.

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Reader interactions.

June 29, 2018 at 12:49 pm

You must go to Rize too.

December 18, 2017 at 3:41 pm

Izmir is one of the best Turkey there is,lots of historic places and many great places to see

November 13, 2017 at 8:45 am

You should have added Bursa and Cumalikizik to your list. Bursa and its vicinities offer a lot for the visitors, who would like to taste great food, experience thermal baths, Turkish baths, visit bazaars, mosques, madrasas and enjoy beautiful nature…

June 29, 2017 at 1:56 pm

Turkey has a lot to offer for those who wants to see mixture of cultures, tradition and history. I have been to half of the places mentioned above and each place has its unique history and taste to it. Actually i am planning to move to live in Izmir with my family in less than a month time. We are so excited about this venture, and look forward to get more of Turkey in next few years.

June 21, 2017 at 10:33 pm

I can’t believe you skipped Kastamonu

May 30, 2017 at 2:29 am

I’m suprised you skipped Gaziantep. Gaziantep has the most beatiful Turkish cuisine. You have to taste beyran, kebab, baklava, kadayıf.. In addition, I strongly recommend you to see the ancient city of Zeugma . There are many wonderful muesums and castlle in Gaziantep. I must say that Gaziantep has the biggest zoo.

February 23, 2017 at 12:49 am

Black Sea would be the hidden Gem!! From amazing mountains to the Black Sea it has so much for all to see.

November 15, 2015 at 12:53 pm

I like Ankara, Istanbul, and Antalya. But I really love Ephesus because I really like Greek mythology and historical cities.

June 7, 2015 at 8:52 am

Antalya is definitely one of the best places. When I was a kid, I went there with my family for three days, the beach was sooo awesome!

May 16, 2015 at 12:43 pm

Turkey rocks. Its an amazing destination with a lot of beautiful n mesmerizing sights. Pammukale, Izmir, Uzungöl n safran bolu, Amasra, çanakale should b added to this list if u have time. Moreover u can skip Ankara.

February 26, 2015 at 1:16 am

in addition to: For the ones who are interested in history, Edirne is wonderful to see.

February 26, 2015 at 1:11 am

Don’t make a mistake and never go to Ankara. One of the worst cities in Turkey. I know because I live in Turkey and I lived in Ankara.

Bodrum, Istanbul, Ephesus, Kapadokya, Mardin (security is important), Side, Fethiye (dead sea), Datca and Cunda. These are the best i think

January 8, 2015 at 2:56 am

I cannot believe that you mentioned Ankara in the list. There should be Bursa which has 7 sites (5 Ottoman sultan complexes, Ottoman bazaar and Cumalıkızık Ottoman Village) in Unesco World Heritage list. The city is only 90 minutes by ferry from Istanbul. I highly recommend.

November 3, 2014 at 1:33 am

i’m planning to visit Turky soon ,because it is amazing

October 25, 2014 at 6:49 am

I think,Istanbul is the best to travel,however,Ankara is also awesome place.

October 11, 2014 at 7:42 am

I can’t believe you missed out Pamukkale! That place looks incredible! Other than that, great list! I can’t wait to explore more of Turkey.

September 8, 2014 at 6:26 am

I like Uzungol, Sultan Murat & Sekarsu nice climate, nature at Iis best …

September 2, 2014 at 7:30 pm

Nice list, Side is definitely amazing. Visiting ancient sites in Kas is something travellers shouldnt miss. Two cities are very different one is more touristy and both have great Roman ruins.

August 22, 2014 at 7:50 pm

Izmir is SOOOOOO much better than Istanbul , its crazy that its not even on this list

June 15, 2014 at 7:38 am

If you have 5 days in Istanbul , thats just nice to see it alone . Stay near the Grand Bazaar entrance, which is very near to the tram station of Beyjezit. you can walk to the Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi palace . and Citedel Basalica. Take a tram to Eminonu , where the Spice market and famous Fish restaurants, and then take the Bosphorus Cruise from there. On the third day take a City bus ride to see the outskirts of Istanbul. On 4th day you can go back to see more of what you havent covered the first three days.

April 12, 2014 at 1:01 pm

March 10, 2014 at 12:13 am

Very surprised that the Black sea region is not on your list

January 25, 2014 at 11:44 am

Can somebody advise where to go in turkey for 5 days.?

January 16, 2014 at 9:22 am

I visited Turkey last year and i must say i was impressed greatly! If you want a bit of everything on a trip then dont miss this place.

October 7, 2013 at 12:49 am

Wey!! I have done all of them apart from Ankara and looking to do that this winter

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Home > 43 Best Cities In Turkey To Visit – 2024 List & Map

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

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.

Here’s the combined list of cities in Türkiye, both in Turkish spelling and English spelling in brackets, sorted alphabetically:

1. Adana (Adana) 2. Alanya (Alanya) 3. Alaçatı (Alaçatı) 4. Amasya (Amasya) 5. Ankara (Ankara) 6. Antalya (Antalya) 7. Ayvalık (Ayvalık) 8. Bartin (Bartin) 9. Belek (Belek) 10. Bodrum (Bodrum) 11. Bursa (Bursa) 12. Ceşme (Ceşme) 13. Datça (Datça) 14. Diyarbakir (Diyarbakir) 15. Edirne (Edirne) 16. Eskisehir (Eskisehir) 17. Fethiye (Fethiye) 18. Gaziantep (Gaziantep) 19. Göreme (Göreme) 20. Isparta (Isparta) 21. Istanbul (Istanbul) 22. Izmir (Izmir) 23. Kahramanmaras (Kahramanmaras) 24. Kars (Kars) 25. Kaş (Kaş) 26. Kemer (Kemer) 27. Konya (Konya) 28. Kusadasi (Kusadasi) 29. Mardin (Mardin) 30. Marmaris (Marmaris) 31. Mersin (Mersin) 32. Nevşehir (Nevşehir) 33. Rize (Rize) 34. Safranbolu (Safranbolu) 35. Samsun (Samsun) 36. Sanliurfa (Sanliurfa) 37. Selçuk (Selçuk) 38. Trabzon (Trabzon) 39. Uludağ (Uludağ) 40. Van (Van) 41. Yalova (Yalova) 42. Çanakkale (Çanakkale) 43. Şırnak (Şırnak)

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.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Map Of The Best Cities In Turkey

1. Istanbul

Without a doubt, Istanbul is Türkiye’s most famous city, and not just because it straddles both Europe and Asia. Once known as the capital city of Constantinople, Istanbul is 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 and sometimes mistaking it for the capital.

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 modern-day architecture 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!

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Ankara is Turkey’s capital city, second largest city, and symbol of modern Turkey.

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 . This sophisticated modern city also has a fun side, 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 Civilizations, Ankara Castle, and 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 bus  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.

Alternatively, consider taking the Istanbul to Ankara train !

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Izmir is often seen as Turkey’s second most modern city, which is home to a youthful vibe. 

Located in Western Turkey, with the blue Aegean Sea lapping at its shores , Izmir is a wonderful 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, Turkey’s third largest city, is quite sprawling, but you should be sure to head to the seaside. Here, 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 fantastic 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.

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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.

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. Significant snowfall can be seen 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
• Where To See The Whirling Dervishes In Konya

Bursa is a young and bustling university city that is also perfect for  winter skiing ! 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, the fourth-largest city in Turkey, is famed for being the first capital of the Ottoman Empire and is now 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

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, the place to stop is 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.

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 along 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. 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 from most cities throughout the summer months. 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?
• Kid-Friendly Resorts In Antalya

8. Gaziantep

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 southeast Turkey, and it’s where pistachios are farmed. You’ll also hear it called ‘Antep.’ Packed with historic and beautiful old 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 ancient times; many artifacts 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.

• Reasons Gaziantep Is Worth Visiting

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 combination of beautiful 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

Sanliurfa, 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.

• Should You Visit Southeastern Turkey?

11. Fethiye

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 beautiful natural harbor is a gorgeous 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 by road from Dalaman to Fethiye, 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
• Getting From Istanbul To Fethiye

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 Empire 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 !

Located on the southwest coast, the resort city of 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.

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
• Best Restaurants In Bodrum

14. Canakkale

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 sad 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.

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

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

• Must-See Landmarks In Turkey

15. Kusadasi

Kusadasi is a port city 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.

• Best Beaches In Kusadasi

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 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 of Turkey 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, May, 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.

• Hidden Gems In Turkey

18. Marmaris

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 , which 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
• Beautiful Beaches In Marmaris
• Best Restaurants In Marmaris
• Marmaris Vs. Antalya – Comparison Guide
• Marmaris Vs. Bodrum – Comparison Guide

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Cesme is a charming seaside town located on the western tip of Turkey’s Izmir Province. Known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and historic architecture, Cesme attracts a mix of international and local tourists seeking relaxation and cultural experiences.

This town boasts a vibrant atmosphere, especially during the summer months, with its lively waterfront, marina, and bustling night markets. Despite its popularity, Cesme has managed to maintain an authentic Turkish charm, with narrow cobblestone streets, traditional eateries, and local shops offering a genuine glimpse into Turkish coastal life.

A visit to Cesme wouldn’t be complete without spending time at its famed beaches. Ilıca Beach is particularly popular for its expansive stretches of soft, white sand and thermal springs, which are believed to have healing properties. Another must-visit is Alacati, a nearby town known for its windmills and stone houses and as a hotspot for windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts due to its ideal wind conditions.

Exploring the Cesme Castle is also highly recommended. This 16th-century fortress now houses a museum that showcases the town’s history and offers panoramic views of Cesme and the Aegean Sea . For a unique experience, take a day trip to the Greek island of Chios, just a short ferry ride away, to enjoy its distinct culture and landscapes.

Shopping in the local markets and bazaars is a great way to find unique souvenirs, from handmade crafts to traditional Turkish textiles. The cuisine in Cesme is not to be missed, with an abundance of fresh seafood, local specialties, and Aegean dishes that reflect the region’s rich culinary heritage.

The best time to visit Cesme is from late spring to early autumn, between May and October, when the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for beach activities and exploring. July and August are the peak tourist months, so visiting in the shoulder months of May, June, September, or October can offer a more serene experience with milder weather and fewer crowds.

Cesme is quieter in the winter months, but its mild climate still makes it a pleasant destination for those looking to escape the cold.

The nearest airport to Cesme is Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport, which serves both international and domestic flights. Cesme is approximately an hour’s drive away from the airport. There are regular bus services and shuttle transfers available, providing convenient access to the town. For those looking for a more scenic route, renting a car allows for stops along the beautiful Aegean coastline.

• Where To Stay In Cesme

Van is an enchanting city situated in the eastern part of Turkey, renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning natural landscapes. Nestled on the shores of Lake Van, the largest lake in Turkey, this city is a gateway to exploring ancient Armenian ruins, traditional Kurdish villages, and breathtaking scenery. Van’s unique location, surrounded by rugged mountains and vast plains, makes it a fascinating destination for adventurers, history buffs, and those looking to experience the diversity of Turkey’s eastern regions.

Exploring the historic Van Castle is a must-do for any visitor. This ancient fortress, built by the Urartians in the 9th century BC, offers spectacular views of Lake Van and the city. The site also includes the old town of Van, which was tragically destroyed during World War I, adding a poignant layer to its rich history.

A visit to the Holy Cross Church on Akdamar Island is another highlight. This medieval Armenian church is adorned with intricate carvings and is accessible by a short boat ride on Lake Van, providing a peaceful retreat with stunning views.

For nature enthusiasts, a trip to the Muradiye Waterfalls and the Nemrut Crater Lake, located within a couple of hours’ drive from Van, offers the chance to see some of Turkey’s most beautiful natural wonders . Birdwatching is also a popular activity around Lake Van, which is a stopover for migratory birds.

The city’s bazaars are vibrant and bustling, offering an array of Kurdish textiles, traditional crafts, and the famous Van breakfast, renowned across Turkey for its variety and richness, including local cheeses, honey, and herbs.

The best time to visit Van is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months, when the weather is mild and the natural landscapes are particularly beautiful. These seasons are ideal for exploring historical sites and taking part in outdoor activities without the extreme temperatures of summer and winter.

Van experiences harsh winters with heavy snowfall, which can add a magical touch to the city’s historical sites but might limit access to some attractions.

Van is served by Van Ferit Melen Airport, offering domestic flights from major Turkish cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. The city is also well-connected by road and rail, with bus and train services available from various parts of Turkey. Once in Van, local transportation options such as buses, taxis, and car rentals make it easy to explore the city and its surrounding attractions.

21. Eskisehir

Eskisehir, a vibrant university city located in the northwestern part of Turkey, blends a rich historical heritage with modern-day cultural dynamism. Known for its lively student population, Eskisehir is a hub of creativity, entertainment, and innovation. The city is distinguished by its unique geographical features, including the Porsuk River, which meanders through the city, offering charming canal views reminiscent of some European cities. With its parks, museums, and cultural sites, Eskisehir appeals to a wide range of interests, from history enthusiasts to nature lovers and art aficionados.

One of the city’s most iconic attractions is the Odunpazari Modern Museum (OMM), which showcases contemporary art within a stunning architectural masterpiece. The museum’s collection and exhibitions offer a fascinating glimpse into modern and contemporary art, both Turkish and international.

The historical district of Odunpazari itself is worth exploring for its beautifully preserved Ottoman-era houses, now repurposed as cafes, shops, and boutique hotels, offering a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely stroll.

For a touch of nature and relaxation, Kent Park and Sazova Park are perfect destinations. Kent Park features a large artificial beach and green spaces ideal for picnics. At the same time, Sazova Park, also known as Science, Art, and Culture Park, combines a fairy tale castle, pirate ship, and space house with scientific and cultural exhibits, making it a hit with families.

A cruise on the Porsuk River provides a unique perspective of the city, with several companies offering boat tours that navigate through Eskisehir’s heart, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere from the water.

Eskisehir is delightful to visit in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months when the weather is pleasant, and the city’s parks and gardens are in full bloom. These seasons offer the ideal climate for exploring the city on foot, enjoying outdoor cafes, and participating in various festivals and events.

The summer months (July and August) can be pretty warm, but the city’s numerous shaded parks and river breezes provide ample opportunities to cool off. Winters are cold and sometimes snowy, offering a different charm as the city takes on a serene, picturesque quality.

Eskisehir is well-connected to the rest of Turkey by road and rail, making it easily accessible for visitors. The city’s train station is a major hub for high-speed trains, offering quick and convenient connections to Ankara, Istanbul, and Konya.

For those preferring to drive, Eskisehir is located between Istanbul and Ankara, with well-maintained highways making the journey comfortable and scenic.

Although Eskisehir does not have its own airport, the nearby airports in Ankara and Istanbul provide good alternatives for international and domestic flights, with bus and train services available for the final leg to Eskisehir.

• Best Cities To Visit Near Istanbul

Turkey Travel FAQs About Turkish Cities

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.

What are the 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
• Guide To Hiking The Lycian Way
• Discover Aydin City & Province
• Honeymoons In Turkey – Where To Go & What To Do

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Turkey travel guide

Turkey is a country straddling Eastern Europe and Western Asia, with cultural influences from the Balkans, Mediterranean, Caucasus and Middle East. This bridge between continents has so much to offer travelers. From the eclectic bazaars and mosques of Istanbul to the turquoise coastline of Antalya, Turkey packs a big punch for history buffs, foodies, beach bums and adventurers.

Deciding where to visit in this vast and varied country can be overwhelming. That’s why I’ve put together this list of the 15 best cities to visit in Turkey for your next trip. Read on for my top recommendations on must-see destinations, along with travel tips and highlights for each place.

1. Istanbul

Istanbul is Turkey’s crown jewel. As the country’s largest and most famous city, it tops nearly every traveler’s list. Istanbul straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus strait, giving it a unique Euro-Asian vibe. Its skyline is dotted with historic minarets and modern skyscrapers.

Top Highlights

• Admire breathtaking Byzantine and Ottoman architecture at the  Hagia Sophia  and  Blue Mosque
• Wander through the sprawling  Grand Bazaar  with over 3,000 shops
• Take a Bosphorus ferry ride for stunning views of the Istanbul skyline
• See top sights like  Topkapi Palace  and  Basilica Cistern
• Walk across the  Galata Bridge  and sample street foods in the cafes and restaurants

Istanbul mixes old and new in a vibrant fashion. Spend at least 3 days here to see the top sights. Spring and Fall offer the best weather.

2. Cappadocia

Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscapes look like something from a fairy tale. This region in Central Anatolia is characterized by rock formations and cave dwellings carved out by ancient civilizations.

• Hot air balloon over the  fairy chimneys  at sunrise for magical views
• Explore underground cities like  Derinkuyu  and  Kaymakli
• Visit cave hotels and dine in cave restaurants
• Hike through the  Ihlara Valley  and see ancient monasteries
• Tour  Göreme Open Air Museum  to see painted cave churches

You’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time in Cappadocia. 3 days is sufficient, and it’s best visited in the cooler Spring and Fall months.

Antalya sits on the Turquoise Coast, known for its beautiful blue waters. With a sunny Mediterranean climate, Antalya is a popular beach resort. But it also has a fascinating old town with Ottoman and Roman ruins.

• Relax on  Konyaalti Beach  with views of the Beydağları Mountains
• Explore the Roman-era harbor at  Antalya Old Town
• See ancient artifacts at the  Antalya Museum
• Take a day trip to  Termessos  – an ancient ruined city in the mountains
• Walk beneath waterfalls at  Düden Falls  park

Antalya is a great city for soaking up sun, sea and history. Plan to spend 3-5 days here. Spring, Summer and Fall are ideal times to visit.

Bodrum is a stylish seaside town on the Aegean coast. It has a lively waterfront promenade, excellent seafood restaurants, and proximity to beautiful beaches. Nearby, you’ll find ancient ruins and a 15th century castle.

• Boat tour to  Karaada  for swimming and relaxing in tranquil bays
• Visit the  Mausoleum of Mausolus , one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
• Tour  Bodrum Castle  built by the Knights of St. John
• Indulge in seafood meze at the Old Marina
• Hit the clubs and bars of  Barlar Sokagi

Bodrum is the favorite Aegean destination for the rich, famous and stylish. Plan to spend at least 3 days enjoying the beaches, nightlife and sights. It’s popular in Summer.

5. Pamukkale

Pamukkale’s iconic white terraces are made from mineral hot springs. The cascading pools look like snow or giant cotton terraces. It’s one of Turkey’s most visually stunning sites.

• Bathe in the ancient Roman Baths of  Hierapolis
• Walk barefoot on the white calcium pools of Pamukkale
• See ancient ruins like the amphitheater at Hierapolis
• Visit the Travertines and limestone pools
• Take a tour to explore underground caves

Pamukkale is a wonder of nature. 1-2 days is enough to see the white terraces and soak in the thermal waters. Spring and Fall are the best seasons.

Ephesus was once the Roman capital of Asia Minor. Today it’s famous for its magnificent ancient ruins, including a massive amphitheater and the iconic Library of Celsus.

• Explore the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders
• Walk down the marble-paved Curetes Street with ancient monuments
• See amazing artifacts at the Ephesus Museum
• Visit the House of the Virgin Mary outside town
• Climb up to the Terrace Houses for mosaics and frescoes

You can see Ephesus’ top sites in 1 day, but stay longer to soak in the atmosphere. Avoid Summer crowds if possible.

Fethiye is a relaxed resort town nestled against the sparkling Turquoise Coast. It offers a lively harbor lined with bars, restaurants and yachts, as well as easy access to beaches, coves and ancient ruins.

• Island hop and swim at  Butterfly Valley, Blue Lagoon  and more
• Soak up views on the  Fethiye-Ölüdeniz-Kabak  scenic drive
• Hike and explore the ancient city of  Tlos
• Visit the scenic ruins of the  Kayaköy ghost town
• Barter at the colorful  Fethiye Market  for fresh produce and souvenirs

Fethiye is an ideal base for exploring the region’s beaches and historic sites. You’ll want 3-5 days to relax and do day trips. Visit in shoulder season for smaller crowds.

Konya is best known as the home of the 13th-century poet Rumi and his Whirling Dervishes. Today, it’s a conservative city with some beautiful historic architecture.

• Visit the Mevlâna Museum, once Rumi’s lodge, with his tomb
• Watch a mesmerizing Sema ceremony of the Whirling Dervishes
• See Seljuk-era stone carvings at  Ince Minaret Medrese
• Gaze at the Byzantine mosaics inside the  Alaaddin Mosque
• Wander the labyrinth bazaar of  Bedestan

You can see Konya’s top sites in a day or two. Try to visit for a Sema ceremony in December when Rumi’s death is honored.

Side was once a major port city in ancient Pamphylia. Today, the seaside resort town boasts Roman and Hellenistic ruins alongside inviting beaches.

• Explore the vast Roman amphitheater that could hold 20,000
• See the Temples of Apollo and Athena on the old harbour
• Walk the marble-paved main street of the Agora
• Relax on the white sand  Side Beach  with nearby bars
• Visit the Side Museum’s ancient statues and sarcophagi

You can see Side’s top ruins and enjoy the beaches in 1-2 days. It gets busy in Summer but is quieter in Spring and Fall.

10. Safranbolu

Safranbolu is known for its preservation of Ottoman houses and architecture. It’s like an open-air museum showcasing Turkish history. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Stay overnight in a historic Ottoman mansion house
• Shop for Lokum (Turkish delight) and handicrafts in the Arasta Bazaar
• Tour the 19th-century  Izzet Mehmet Pasha Mosque
• Visit the wax museum inside the  Kaymakamlar House Museum
• Drink Turkish coffee on the old cafes of  Kıranköy  square

Two days gives you time to wander Safranbolu’s charming old town. May and September are ideal with fewer crowds.

11. Gaziantep

Gaziantep is a modern economic hub with an old quarter famous for its cuisine. You’ll find the best regional Turkish food here. It’s also near sites like Roman mosaics and a Stone Age settlement.

• Try local dishes like kebabs, baklava, and Antep pistachios
• Tour the food stalls and shops at  Bakırcılar Çarşısı  bazaar
• See Roman mosaics at the  Zeugma Mosaic Museum
• Visit the ancient site of  Belkıs-Zeugma  on the Euphrates
• View Hittite artifacts at the  Gaziantep Museum

Gaziantep’s foodie delights and historic sites deserve 2-3 days. Visit in Spring or Fall when the weather is pleasant.

12. Marmaris

Marmaris is a bustling resort town situated on a beautiful horseshoe bay. It offers a scenic seaside promenade lined with restaurants, bars and palm trees. Nearby you’ll find secluded coves and beaches.

• Charter a Blue Cruise yacht to sail to small bays and islands
• Party at Bar Street’s open-air nightclubs and bars
• Hike in the Bozburun Peninsula mountains and forests
• Take a jeep safari to off-the-beaten-path villages
• Relax on lively  İçmeler Beach  with water sports

Marmaris offers non-stop seaside fun and nightlife. Stay for 3-5 days for cruising, hiking and beach time. It gets crowded in high summer.

Kaş is a laidback beach town on the Lycian Coast, near excellent diving spots. It’s popular with travelers looking to enjoy the sea, small town vibes and access to ancient sites.

• Dive and snorkel at sunken ruins and reefs
• Hike the Lycian Way trail along stunning coast views
• Sea kayak to explore coves and islands
• Visit the mountain-top acropolis of  Xanthos
• Relax on  Küçük Çakıl Beach  which allows free camping

Kaş offers activities for adventure travelers who like intimate towns. Stay for 3-5 days of outdoor fun and sights. Shoulder season means smaller crowds.

14. Trabzon

Trabzon is an underrated Black Sea city with an old town full of Ottoman sites. It’s also the gateway to hiking in the green Sumela Valley with its iconic monastery.

• Admire Byzantine frescoes at  Sumela Monastery
• Hike through the Altındere National Park’s forests and rivers
• Learn about Ottoman history at the  Atatürk Museum House
• Shop at the  Kunduracılar Market  for shoes, clothes and jewelry
• Enjoy Black Sea cuisine like Akçaabat meatballs and hamsi fish

Trabzon’s outdoor beauty and distinctive culture deserve 2-3 days. Visit in Spring before the rainy season starts.

15. Çanakkale

Çanakkale overlooks the Dardanelles strait and is steeped in World War I history. This city near Troy makes a great base to explore Gallipoli battlefields and islands like Bozcaada.

• Take a somber walk at Anzac Cove and other Gallipoli battle sites
• Tour Troy and see a replica Trojan horse
• Hike Mount Ida for gorgeous views of the region
• Swim and taste wine on Bozcaada, the third biggest Aegean island
• Try delicious fish like sardines and sea bass

Çanakkale’s powerful history and lively vibe deserves 2-3 days. Early Spring and late Fall mean less crowds.

Travel Tips for Visiting Turkey’s Best Cities

Getting around.

• Air Travel: It’s easy to fly within Turkey on domestic carriers like Turkish Airlines, Pegasus or SunExpress.
• Train: Affordable and comfortable but limited routes. Best for Istanbul-Edirne, Ankara-Konya.
• Bus: Extensive network reaches every region. Good discount companies like FlixBus.
• Car Rental: Convenient for exploring regions like Cappadocia or the Aegean. Drive on the right.
• Ferries & Boats: Link coastal towns and islands. Great for the Aegean or Mediterranean.

Where to Stay

• Hotels: Range from budget to luxury. Book well in advance for peak season.
• Pensions: Family-run with charm and local hospitality. Great budget option.
• Homestays: Live like a local. Platforms like Couchsurfing or Airbnb.
• Hostels: Best for solo travelers on a budget. Limited private rooms.
• Caves: In Cappadocia, you can even stay in carved out cave hotels!

When to Visit

• March to May: Spring temperatures, fewer crowds, wildflowers bloom
• June to August: Peak season with perfect beach weather but crowded
• September to November: Cooler Fall weather, ideal for city & cultural trips
• December to February: Colder months with some rain/snow. Low season

What to Eat

• Kebabs: From meatballs to kofta, kebabs are everywhere. Try döner and şiş.
• Meze: Small plates like stuffed grape leaves, cacık, baklava, lokum
• Breakfast: Simit (breads), menemen (scrambled eggs), cheese, olives
• Street foods: Snacks like roasted chestnuts, simit with cheese, or fish sandwiches
• Turkish coffee: Thick, strong coffee. Order it şekersiz for without sugar.
• Rakı: Distilled anise drink, usually with meze or fish. Add water to dilute.
• Ayran: Refreshing cold yoghurt drink enjoyed with meals.
• Turkish tea: Black tea served in tulip-shaped glasses, often with dessert.
• Accommodation: Hostel dorm from $15, budget hotel from $50, luxury hotel from $200
• Food: Street snacks for a few lira, restaurant meals from $5-15
• Attractions: Free to $30 for sites like Hagia Sophia, Ephesus, Troy
• Transportation: Buses from $5, domestic flights from $50
• Daily total: $50-100 per day

Discover Authentic and Vibrant Turkey

From majestic minarets and blue lagoons to ancient ruins and whirling dervishes, Turkey offers travelers endless diversity. Wander the bazaars of Istanbul, relax on Mediterranean beaches, explore Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys or visit sites like Ephesus and Troy. Whether you’re trekking, discovering history and culture, or just soaking up the sun and cuisine, Turkey will leave you saying “çok güzel!” (very beautiful).

More Beautiful Destinations in Turkey

Beyond the top 15 cities, Turkey has even more incredible destinations waiting to be explored. Here are some bonus cities and regions worth adding to your Turkey itinerary:

16. Şanlıurfa

Şanlıurfa, also known simply as Urfa, is an underrated city in Southeastern Anatolia. It’s known as the birthplace of the prophet Abraham and has a fascinating blend of Turkish, Kurdish, Arabic and Armenian influences.

Top highlights include:

• Exploring the historic Old City with the stone Balıklıgöl complex
• Visiting Abraham’s Cave and the sacred pilgrimage sites
• Seeing remains at the Neolithic settlement of Göbekli Tepe
• Trying the local cuisine with isot pepper and驴anlıurfa kebabs
• Cooling off at the Karakoyun and Atatürk Dams and their lakes

Şanlıurfa may be off the main tourist trail, but 2-3 days here will show you genuine Turkish culture beyond Istanbul. Come in Spring or Fall.

Mardin is a city in Southeastern Anatolia with a wealth of architecture and history. The charming city center has many ornately carved stone houses, mosques, churches and bazaars.

Top things to do include:

• Taking in panoramic views from the hilltop old town
• Exploring the 12th century Mardin Citadel and grand Zinciriye Medresesi
• Learning about ancient Mesopotamia at the Mardin Museum
• Seeing Syriac monasteries like Deyrülzafaran and Mor Hananyo
• Sipping traditional Turkish coffee on Cumhuriyet Caddesi

Mardin offers a glimpse into Turkey’s diversity. Spend 2-3 days enjoying its mix of Arab, Kurdish and Turkish cultures. Spring and Fall have ideal weather.

Bursa was the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, and retains its imperial mosques and markets. Nestled at the base of Uludağ Mountain, it’s a green city with hot springs.

Top attractions include:

• Exploring mosques like the Grand Mosque and Green Mosque
• Taking the cable car up Mount Uludağ for winter sports
• Browsing silk scarves and towels in the sprawling Grand Bazaar
• Relaxing in the thermal baths at Çekirge Hot Springs
• Sampling İskender kebab, a local specialty, and creamy pide cheese bread

Bursa deserves 2-3 days to take in the Ottoman history, skiing and local specialties. Visit in Spring to beat the heat.

As Turkey’s third largest city, Izmir has an urban yet laidback coastal vibe. Known for its diversity, it has Greek, Armenian and Jewish influences.

• Strolling the lively Konak Pier shopping area
• Seeing ancient relics at the Izmir Archeology Museum
• Taking a ferry to Çeşme Peninsula towns and beaches
• Exploring the ruins of the ancient Agora of Smyrna
• Eating seafood like grilled calamari and midye dolma stuffed mussels

Izmir has big city amenities with seaside appeal. Give yourself 2-3 days to take it all in. Spring and Fall have pleasant weather.

Edirne sits on the Greek and Bulgarian borders, surrounded by rivers. It was the Ottoman Empire’s capital before Istanbul, and retains graceful mosques and markets.

• Marveling at the architectural beauty of Selimiye Mosque
• Shopping for spices, fruits and nuts at the Ali Paşa Bazaar
• Exploring the 15th century Edirne Palace
• Seeing Ottoman weaponry at the Edirne City Museum
• Tasting fried liver and famous meatballs at Ciğerim Ciğerim Restaurant

You can see Edirne’s top mosques, palaces and cuisine in 1-2 days. Avoid the summer peak season crowds if possible.

Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path

Beyond Turkey’s famous cities and main tourist sites, there are many hidden gems waiting to be uncovered if you venture off the beaten path. Here are some of the best underrated spots in Turkey:

On the Aegean coast, Ayvalık has a charming old town with Greek Orthodox churches and a laidback vibe. It’s surrounded by olive groves and has great beaches nearby like Sarimsakli.

Akçakoca is a small Black Sea town with pristine beaches and rural countryside. Watch fishermen haul in the catch of mackerel and bonito fish.

Amasra is a quaint Black Sea fishing village with whitewashed Ottoman houses, two bays for swimming, hillside hikes and local seafood eateries.

Patara Beach

Patara Beach in Lycia has over 12 miles of sandy coastline dotted with ancient Lycian ruins. It’s nestled between mountains and only disrupted by nesting sea turtles.

In the Bolkar Mountains, Yedigöller or “Seven Lakes” offers an incredible hike among seven highland lakes with crystal blue waters.

Salt Lake (Tuz Gölü)

In central Anatolia, this stunning salt lake has a lunar-like landscape of white salt formations, best seen at sunset.

The ancient city of Afrodisias has incredible marble statues and carvings still being uncovered today, without the crowds of Ephesus.

Sultan Marshes

Adventure to this vast wetland ecosystem in Central Anatolia to see colorful birdlife, water buffalo, and a traditional rural way of life.

In Cappadocia, Güzelyurt has cave houses and underground cities without the main tourist crowds. Nearby is Ihlara Valley.

Uzungöl in northeastern Turkey looks like it belongs in the Swiss Alps with its lakeside village surrounded by lush green mountains.

Experiencing Turkish Culture

Beyond the sites and scenery, don’t miss the chance to experience authentic Turkish culture. Here are some top activities:

Baths & Spas

After sightseeing, relax sore muscles in a traditional hamam (Turkish bath) like the beautiful 16th century Çemberlitaş Hamamı in Istanbul.

Regional Festivals

Each spring, Şanlıurfa puts on the mesmerizing communal Sıra Gecesı ritual with music, prayer and whirling.

###Cooking Class

Learn to make Turkish classics like kebabs, baklava, dolma, or how to brew Turkish coffee during a cooking class. Istanbul and Cappadocia offer many options.

Whirling Dervishes

Seeing the mystical Mevlevi Sema ceremony of the whirling dervishes in Konya is a memorable experience.

Turkish Tea

Stop at a local tea garden to sip black tea from tulip-shaped glasses, served strong with sugar cubes.

Turkish Coffee

Sample traditional dark roasted coffee boiled in a cezve. Let the grounds settle before enjoying.

Water pipe (Nargile)

Try puffing on fruity shisha waterpipe tobacco. Cafes across Turkey offer nargile, especially in Istanbul and Antalya.

Turkish Bath Products

Shop for soaps, oils and towels made from locally grown olive oil, laurel, honey and other natural ingredients.

Street Snacks

Try snacks like simit (sesame rings), roasted chestnuts or corn, kokoreç (grilled lamb intestines) or midye dolma (stuffed mussels).

Call to Prayer

Loud, haunting calls ring out five times daily from mosques announcing prayer times. Time sightseeing around avoiding them if sensitive to noise.

Planning Your Perfect Turkey Trip

With endless destinations to choose from, planning the perfect Turkey trip can be daunting. Here are some sample itineraries to inspire you:

First Timers (10-14 Days)

Istanbul (3-4 days) → Cappadocia (2-3 days) → Ephesus (1 day) → Pamukkale (1 day) → Antalya or Bodrum (2-3 days)

This route hits Turkey’s highlights for first-time visitors: Istanbul’s history, Cappadocia’s landscapes, Ephesus’ ruins, Pamukkale’s cotton terraces, and the Turquoise Coast’s beaches.

###Culture Vultures (10-14 Days)

Istanbul (3-4 days) → Şanlıurfa & Mardin (3 days) → Cappadocia (3 days) → Konya (1 day) → Safranbolu (2 days)

For those focused on culture, history and architecture, this itinerary includes time in the diverse southeast, Cappadocia’s cave towns, Rumi’s Konya, and preserved Ottoman Safranbolu.

###Outdoor Adventurers (10-14 Days)

Istanbul (2 days) → Fethiye (3 days) → Kalkan (2 days) → Kaş (2 days) → Konya (1 day) → Cappadocia (3 days)

Active travelers will love time on the Turquoise Coast’s beaches and coves in Fethiye and Kaş, combined with trails in Cappadocia and historical sites.

###Foodies (10-14 Days)

Istanbul (3 days) → Gaziantep (2 days) → Şanlıurfa (2 days) → Antalya (2 days) → Alpine villages (3 days) → Bursa (2 days)

Turkish cuisine shines in this trip to foodie havens Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa, coastal Antalya, rural villages, and Ottoman Bursa.

###Relaxing Beach Getaway (7-10 Days)

Dalaman → Fethiye (2 days) → Ölüdeniz (2 days) → Kalkan (2 days) → Patara (1 day)

With long stretches of beautiful coastline, spend a week or more soaking up the sun and swimming along the Turquoise Coast, especially laidback spots like Fethiye, Ölüdeniz and Kalkan.

Traveling in Turkey on Any Budget

One of the best parts of Turkey is that you can have an amazing trip no matter your budget.

If backpacking on a budget, you can find dorm beds for as low as $5-10 a night, travel between cities by overnight bus, stick to street food like simit and döner for just a few lira, and haggle at bazaars.

For mid-range travelers, boutique hotels run $50-100 per night, you can take faster trains or domestic flights between regions, sit down for kebab and meze restaurant meals, and join some group tours.

On a high-end trip, stay at luxury five-star beach resorts starting at $200+ per night, get around via rental car and private transfers, eat at upscale restaurants, and enjoy activities like hot air ballooning in Cappadocia.

Turkey offers great value across the spectrum. Save money by avoiding the peak summer season, having flexible dates, and booking things directly rather than through a package.

No matter your budget, you can find ways to immerse yourself in incredible history, nature and hospitality.

Start Planning Your Turkish Adventure

Whether you’re looking for ancient sites or modern cities, beach relaxation or outdoor adventures, Turkey has something for every type of traveler.

I hope this guide has helped showcase the diversity of experiences across Turkey’s magical landscapes. From acclaimed cities like Istanbul to hidden spots like Mardin, there are so many places to uncover.

Use this as a starting point to craft your own Turkish itinerary. You can then deep dive into each destination with guidebooks and blogs.

The turquoise coast and cappucino valleys await! As the locals say, haydi or “let’s go” – it’s time to start your Turkish adventure. But first, one more cup of çay.

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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.

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

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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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12 unmissable things to do in Turkey

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 © 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 Oct 12, 2021 and updated Jan 3, 2022.

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Wander-Lush

25 Beautiful Places in Turkey for Your Travel Itinerary (Must-sees & Hidden Gems)

A land of immense natural beauty and diverse cultures underpinned by eons of history, Turkey (Türkiye) is a country like no other.

Here are 25 jaw-droppingly beautiful destinations (including 10 hidden gems!) you can’t overlook when planning your trip, from hot springs to beach resorts, coastal towns to ancient cities hewn from rock, palaces, monasteries, sparkling lakes, sacred mountains, and much, much more!

In travellers’ terms, Turkey is in a league of its own. This is the place where East meets West; where Europe and Asia collide and produce a transcontinental culture clash. Amazing food, diverse traditions, religions and histories – these are the things that make Turkey such an unforgettable travel destination.

Although Turkey is known for its beautiful beaches and hot air balloon-filled skies, it’s so much more than that. Once the playground of great figures such as Cleopatra, Caesar and Alexander the Great, Turkey’s historical significance is proudly displayed in the palaces, mosques, monasteries and countless archaeological sites that dot the vast landscape. There are no fewer than 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Turkey plus 41 national parks where unforgettable valleys, lakes and mountains lay in wait.

Fragrant bazaars and stunning views at every corner, from the narrow streets of Istanbul – one of the world’s great cities – to Turkey’s small towns and villages, the urban landscape is every bit as enigmatic.

To help you narrow down your wish list, I’ve rounded up the most beautiful places in Turkey to visit.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

When is the best time to visit Turkey?

Summer is peak tourist season in Turkey, when prices go up – along with the temperatures – and popular destinations become overcrowded, especially the bigger cities such as Istanbul and towns along the Turquoise Coast.

A better time to visit Turkey is during spring or fall shoulder season . Winter is a great time to plan an Istanbul city break , just note that the east of Turkey and the mountainous regions experience very cold winters. See a list of the best places to visit in Turkey in winter .

How to get around Turkey

One thing to know before you visit Turkey is that this country is big! Most travellers fly into Istanbul, which is indeed a good place to start your itinerary. It may be necessary to take a domestic flight or two to travel onwards to central or eastern Turkey. The country’s railway network can also come in handy: There are regular trains from Istanbul to Ankara and Kars.

Once the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars Railway launches, this will make it possible to travel into Eastern Turkey overland from the South Caucasus.

If you want to visit all of these diverse and beautiful destinations, renting a car for a Turkey road trip is the best option. I recommend using Local Rent .

25 of the most beautiful places in Turkey to add to your itinerary

From the domes of the Blue Mosque to the cobalt waters of the Black Sea, the bustling city of Istanbul and the enigmatic Hagia Sophia to the hidden secrets of Turkey’s underground cities and historic sites, from popular tourist attractions to hidden gems , here are the most gorgeous places to visit in Turkey!

1. Istanbul: The most beautiful city in Turkey

A melting pot of cultures in the truest sense of the term, Istanbul has to be one of the most beautiful cities in Turkey. It’s a transcontinental city, meaning you can literally travel between Europe and Asia in a matter of minutes – in fact, it’s as easy as crossing a bridge.

Istanbul’s skyline is dotted not only with the spires and domes of mosques, but also with medieval European architecture. This is because the city was the capital of four major empires throughout the ages, including the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, the Latin Empire and the Ottoman Empire.

But that’s not all. Istanbul is known for its delicious food, cafes that serve up Turkish coffee, traditional baths (hammams), Whirling Dervish ceremonies , vibrant nightlife and unique shopping experiences, which include the biggest covered Bazaar in the country: The one and only Grand Bazaar.

There are countless famous landmarks to see in Istanbul, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Galata Tower , Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, and many more. And then there are Istanbul’s hidden corners, including the gorgeous Arnavutkoy neighbourhood , with its Ottoman-era mansion houses.

Get there: Fly into Istanbul Airport. Where to stay: Ayramin Hotel Taksim, boutique hotel 200m from Istiklal Street. Search rooms here .

2. Pamukkale & Hierapolis

The mineral spring waters that have cascaded down this hillside for thousands of years have created an extraordinary sight. Located in Turkey’s Büyük Menderes Valley, the 17 tiered pools of Pamukkale – which means ‘cotton castle’ – make up the most beautiful thermal spring you’ll ever see. You can find the stacked white Travertine terraces overlooking the city of Denizli. 

Back in the day, Pamukkale was one of the most popular thermal pools in Turkey. It was a spa, first used in the 2nd century BC and famous for its healing properties. Today, the perfectly blue water that fills these white limestone bowls still stays at a comfortable 34 degrees Celsius.

No day trip to Pamukkale is complete without a stop in Hierapolis, one of the first thermal spa resorts in the world. This spa city was also founded at the end of the 2nd century and is home to the famous Antique Pool, also known as the ‘Cleopatra Pool’.

Legend has it that the famous Cleopatra herself often bathed in these warm waters, gifted to her by Mark Antony on the occasion of their wedding. The pool itself was once covered by the Roman temple of Apollo, but now the columns lie dormant in the water, adding even more charm to this unique bathing experience.

Get there: 1-hour flight or overnight coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Hotel Sahin, simple rooms 20m from the Pamukkale travertines. Search rooms here .

3. Ancient Ephesus

Did you know Ephesus is considered one of the great outdoor museums of Turkey? In ancient times, Ephesus was a port city and was considered to be one of the most important Greek outposts and trading centres in the entire Mediterranean region. Throughout history, many different forces conquered the city. It even played a role in spreading Christianity.

Today Ephesus is one of the largest and most celebrated Roman archaeological sites in the eastern Mediterranean and remains a popular Christian pilgrimage destination. In 2015, the ancient town was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Other nearby famous landmarks include the House of the Virgin Mary on Mount Nightingale and the Ruins of the Temple of Artemis, which is one of the Wonders of the Ancient World.

Get there: 1 hour by road from Izmir or 7 hours by coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Eliada Hotel (Kusadasi). Search rooms here .

4. Cappadocia

If you have an Instagram account, then you’ve probably already seen the iconic photos of hot air balloons soaring over unique landforms in Cappadocia.

Located just outside the town of Goreme in the south-centre of Turkey, Cappadocia is known for its otherworldly, cone-like rock formations. As well as the ‘fairy chimneys’, the landscape is dotted with magnificent rock-cut monasteries including Selime Monastery, a popular sunset spot.

Every morning, 100-150 hot air balloons float over Goreme to create one of the most beautiful scenes in Turkey. But don’t be fooled, hot air ballooning is not the only thing you can do in Cappadocia . This area is known for its outdoor activities, including hiking. Popular sunrise trails can be found in Love Valley, Pigeon Valley and Rose Valley.

Get there: 1.25-hour flight or overnight coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Sofa Hotel (Avanos), one of the area’s best cave hotels. Search rooms here . Recommended reading: Learn more about the famous hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia and other things to do in Goreme here .

5. Butterfly Valley

Only accessible by boat, or via a very difficult trek down from Faralya village, Butterfly Valley is a real hidden gem. If you manage to get here, you’ll find its one of the best off-the-beaten-path experiences in Turkey.

The valley takes its name from the roughly 100 species of butterflies found in the area, including the endemic orange, black and white Jersey Tiger. The Turkish Government declared the 86,000sqm valley a preservation area in 1987 to protect the butterflies and the local flora.

With lush greenery, waterfalls and a sandy cove, this whole area is perfect for hiking. Those that make their way to the water’s edge are often looking to slow down and connect with nature. On the shoreline you’ll find a campsite with a beach bar that serves beers and grilled fish.

Get there: 1 hour by road from Fethiye.

6. Bodrum: One of the most beautiful places in Turkey

Often called the ‘St. Tropez of Turkey’, this beautiful resort town is located on a peninsula enveloped by shimmering sapphire and turquoise waters. Bodrum is most famous for its array of sandy beaches – more than 60 in total.

With a unique mix of archaeological sites, attractions, nightlife and culture, Bodrum is an alluring destination for travellers of all types, not just sun-seekers. It also happens to be surprisingly affordable if you’re savvy about where to stay.

If you’re a history buff, then one of the highlights of the city is the waterfront-located Bodrum Castle. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only visually beautiful but also packs a historical punch. Inside the castle you will find the Underwater Archeology Museum, which features a variety of artefacts unearthed from the seabed. Another highlight is the Mausoleum of Mausolus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Get there: 1-hour flight or overnight coast from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Ena Boutique Hotel, overlooking Bodrum Castle. Search rooms here .

7. Mount Ararat

Mythical Mount Ararat is actually two separate peaks, both of which are dormant volcanoes. Their summits are snow-capped throughout the year. The thing that makes Ararat so famous is that it’s believed to be the mountain on which Noah and his ark landed during the great flood.

If you ‘re looking to do some trekking , climbing Mount Ararat doesn’t require much technical skill as most of the path is quite easy. The biggest challenge, however, is the altitude, as it is over 5,000m high. The trek takes around 8-9 hours.

Get there: 3 hours by road from Kars. Where to stay: Tehran Boutique Hotel (Dogubayazit). Search rooms here .

8. Kas: The prettiest village in Turkey

Another place where you can escape the hustle and bustle, the old fishing village of Kas is one of the most beautiful places in Turkey. This seaside town offers a cool combination of ancient history that traces back to the Lycian kingdom plus modern leisure activities that you can enjoy around its twin harbours.

One of the more interesting sites in Kas is the Lycian Rock Tombs (Likya Kaya Mezarlari), which mirror similar tombs found in other parts of Turkey. According to Atlas Obscura , the Lycians believed their dead were carried to the afterlife by magic winged creatures, thus they placed them in geographically high places such as the cliffside. Some of these tombs can be seen just above the Old Town in Kas, including the King’s Tomb, which is located at the top of the bazaar street in the heart of the old town.

Kas is also known for its gorgeous whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets that lead down to white-sand beaches.

Quick tip: Be sure to visit Kaputaş Beach. If you’re into exploring the underwater world, then head to the island of Kekova.

Get there: 1.25-hour flight or overnight coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Luna Kas, beachfront hotel with a pool. Search rooms here .

9. The Blue Lagoon (Oludeniz)

Oludeniz is known all around the world as Turkey’s Blue Lagoon because of its perfectly aquamarine waters. The natural cove is formed by a long peninsula that curves around the Mediterranean coastline, creating a giant swimming hole reminiscent of Croatia’s Adriatic coast .

One of the most popular activities at the Blue Lagoon is obviously to pull up a beach chair and enjoy the sun in between fresh dips in the ocean’s calm waters. If you’re an active traveller, then this beach is one of Turkey’s best spots for paragliding due to the amazing views of the lagoon and surrounding cove.

The Lycian Way, Turkey’s famous long-distance hike, passes through this area.

Get there: 20 minutes by road from Fethiye. Where to stay: Harbour Suites (Fethiye). Search rooms here .

10. Koprulu Canyon

Koprulu Canyon is both a canyon and a national park in the province of Antalya. It’s also Turkey’s most popular water sports area.

The canyon trails for 14km along the Koprulu river , its rock walls towering to a maximum height of 400m. The surrounding park is home to a rich diversity of flora including pine, fir, and oak trees, and even wild olives. It also hosts the largest cypress forest in Asia Minor.

Highlights include whitewater rafting on the river Oprucay, visiting archaeological sites and historic Roman bridges nestled in the park, hiking and even camping.

Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Antalya.

Ankara might not be Turkey’s most famous city, but it is the nation’s capital. A mecca for Turkish food and a centre for the performing arts, music and dance, Ankara is a dream destination for culture-focused travellers who want to sink their teeth into Turkish traditions.

Kemal Ataturk, the first president of Turkey who was born in Thessaloniki , declared Ankara the capital in 1923. His mausoleum, Anitkabir, sits prominently above the city centre as a hilltop tribute to his role in shaping modern Turkey.

Don’t miss the world-class Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which documents the region’s preclassical history in stunning detail. The Citadel (Kale) neighbourhood is the most charming part of town for a wander, with dozens of cafes, craft workshops and boutiques nestled inside quaint red-roofed houses.

Get there: 1.25-hour flight or overnight coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Divan Cukurhan, one of Turkey’s finest boutique hotels. Search rooms here .

12. Lake Van

One of Turkey’s largest lakes, Lake Van, is located in the eastern part of the country close to the cities of Erzurum and Kars. Formed by tectonic movements, the water is naturally high in saline. In the 11th century, it formed a land border between the East Roman Empire and the Turko-Persian Seljuk Empire.

The city of Van on the lake’s eastern edge is a natural jumping-off point for enjoying this sublime landscape. Nearby, the abandoned 15th century Ktuts monastery sits on a tiny island, creating one of the area’s most striking scenes. The Armenian Apostolic edifice sits on Akdamar Island just off the coast and can be accessed by ferry for an up-close look.

For the perfect sunset spot, head to Van Fortress. Find more exciting things to do in Van here .

Get there: 4 hours by road from Kars. Where to stay: RÖNESANS LİFE HOTEL (Van). Search rooms here .

13. Trabzon & the Black Sea Coast

Though not as famous as the Turquoise Coast, Turkey’s Black Sea Coast is another popular tourist destination that comes alive in the warmer months. As well as white sand beaches, you’ll find dramatic cliffs and panoramic views.

The city of Trabzon is a good base for exploring the countless small seaside resort towns that run up and down the seashore. Breathtaking mountain peaks rise us behind the water, framing the beaches beautifully. This is Turkey’s tea tourism capital, so you simply must sample the local leaves while you’re in town!

There are plenty of treasures to be found in the hills as well, including Soumela Monastery (AKA Sumela Monastery) and Uzungol, a picturesque lakeside village at the edge of the Kackar Mountains.

Get there: 1.5-hour flight or overnight coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Radisson Blu Hotel Trabzon. Search rooms here .

14. Gaziantep

If you are a foodie, then this one’s for you! Gaziantep is one of the oldest settlements in the region, with roots that go back more than 10,000 years. This is a city where ancient history meets culinary culture .

If you need proof: Gaziantep was added to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a city of gastronomy in 2015. Between the fresh produce, wonderful desserts, delicious sauces and blends of flavours, there are more than 400 local specialties to try in Gaziantep – so what will you try first?

Get there: 1.5-hour flight or overnight coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Anadolu Evleri, historic hotel in the centre. Search rooms here .

15. Antalya

Antalya, one of the most beautiful cities in Turkey, is also the hub of the Turkish Riviera and is the largest settlement on the country’s Mediterranean coast.

This is an urban metropolis much like Istanbul but with the kind of laid-back charm only a city with world-renowned sandy beaches can offer. A beautiful history lies beneath the surface: Antalya is dotted with mosques, churches, and a Turkish bath from ancient times designed in the Greco-Turkish style.

Be sure to set aside plenty of time for visiting Kaleiçi, the city’s historic old town. Before Antalya was one of Turkey’s top resort destinations, it was the ancient city of Attalia. The old town has structures dating back from the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, Ottoman and even modern Turkish republican eras. It is the perfect mix of old and new and should not be missed – it ‘s also incredibly walkable as it falls within an area of one square kilometre.

Get there: Fly into Antalya Airport (1.25-hour flight from Istanbul) or overnight coach. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Sibel Pension, traditional guesthouse with panoramic sea views. Search rooms here .

Top 10 hidden gems in Turkey

16. ishak pasha palace: a hidden gem in turkey.

One of Turkey’s most striking but lesser-visited historical sites, the Ishak Pasha Palace is located in the country’s far east, close to the borders of Iran and Armenia . Commissioned in 1784 by the Kurdish Sanjak Chief Ishak Pasha, it’s a rare example of an Ottoman-period palace that has stood the test of time.

The vast complex combines Ottoman, Seljuk, Persian and Armenian architectural styles to perfectly reflect the layers of culture and history that define this part of Turkey. Inside, visitors can admire the beautiful facades, a mosque, opulent ceremonial halls, arched gates and a mausoleum.

The Ishak Pasha Palace cuts a striking figure against a backdrop of mountain peaks, with the city of Doğgubeyazit stretched out in the valley below.

Quick tip: This part of Eastern Turkey experiences heavy snowfall in winter , so it’s preferable to visit in late spring or summer.

17. Alacati: A charming alternative to Cesme

Located on the Aegean Coast close to Izmir, Alacati is a little slice of blue-and-white paradise. If you want to walk relatively quieter laneways and experience sleeping inside an authentic stone house, Alacati is a good alternative to the more-popular Cesme.

Charming stone houses draped in bougainvillaea flowers and cobbled streets make this one of the most traditional towns in Turkey. There is plenty to do in Alacati to warrant staying for a few nights, from boat trips and windsurfing to summiting the nearby 16th-century Cesme Castle. But your time might be best spent simply weaving your way between cute restaurants and bars that serve local wine.

Subtle differences in the shape and layout of Alacati’s historic houses reveals the story of their owners: Homes that belonged to Ottoman Greek families have an enclosed balcony and cumba alcove window, and are usually painted in violet or Aegean blue. Besides the architecture, windmills and street murals add to Alacati’s appeal.

Get there: 1 hour by road from Izmir. Where to stay: Gaia Alacati, stunning rooms inside an authentic stone house. Search rooms here .

18. Safranbolu: One of the best small towns in Turkey

If you’re on the hunt for Turkey’s cutest small town, look no further than Safranbolu. Located in the Black Sea region on a former tributary of the Old Silk Road , Safranbolu used to be a centre for growing and trading saffron. Hence the name, which combines the name of the precious spice and the Greek word polis , meaning ‘city’.

The town revolves around Çarşı district, where hundreds of perfectly preserved Ottoman houses line charming cobbled streets. This style of architecture can be seen across the old Ottoman world, from Berat in Albania to Plovdiv in Bulgaria . Safranbolu’s houses are among the finest in the region – no wonder the entire town was inscribed as a UNESCO Site in 1994. More than 1000 other registered historical artifacts can be found on Safranbolu’s streets, including an ancient sundial.

The 17th-century Cinci Han – once a caravanserai – now provides visitors with sweeping views from its rooftop, while the restored Tarihi Cinci Hamam offers the chance to experience a traditional 17th-century bathhouse.

Get there: 6-hour coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Mehves Hanim Konagi, design hotel in a heritage Ottoman mansion. Search rooms here .

19. Mount Nemrut: A lesser-known archaeological site

Well-known among Turkish people but still relatively obscure on the world stage, Mount Nemrut is a true hidden gem. Located in south-eastern Turkey within Mount Nemrut National Park, this 2,100-metre-tall peak is one of the highest in the country.

Majestic as it may be, it’s not the natural landscape that makes Mount Nemrut memorable – rather, it’s the area’s ancient ruins. Recognised by UNESCO as the royal tomb of Antiochus, the site dates to the 1st century BC. Huge limestone heads now strewn across the volcanic soil once topped seated statues depicting the Greek and Persian gods. At some point in history the pantheon was ransacked and the statues desecrated, creating the otherworldly scene you see today.

Often referred to as the ‘Throne of the Gods’, Nemrut Park has many more archaeological treasures to discover, including burial sites, Roman bridges , and the ruins of ancient cities associated with the ancient Kingdom of Commagene.

Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Adiyaman. Where to stay: Nemrut Kervansaray Hotel, historic property and closest option to the top of Mount Nemrut. Search rooms here .

20. Mardin: An ancient city in Anatolia

Floating on a rocky outcrop above the Mesopotamian plain, the city of Mardin in Anatolia is both a time capsule and a living library of history, archaeology and religious heritage. Better still, it’s almost completely free of mass-tourism.

Fashioned almost entirely from locally mined, buff-coloured limestone, the city emerges from the landscape as if it were a natural rock formation. The narrow streets are bristling with traditional houses – take note of the local building style, which favours sloping facades and big courtyards – interspersed with historic buildings and little workshops belonging to the city’s Syrian Orthodox silversmiths.

Climb up to the top of the ridge for stunning views of the mountain village and surrounding grasslands from the citadel. On a clear day, you might be able to see all the way to the Syrian border.

There is immense beauty in Mardin’s diversity: The proliferation of churches and mosques belonging to different denominations attest to the area’s long and storied history. Be sure to visit the Meryem Ana Syriac Catholic Church (1895), the Surp Kevork Armenian Apostolic Church, the Mor Hirmiz Chaldean Catholic Church, and the Mor Petrus and Pavlus Assyrian Protestant Church.

Get there: 2-hour flight from Istanbul or 4 hours by road from Gaziantep. Where to stay: Maridin Hotel, stunning suites set in a historic stone building with rooftop terraces, Turkish baths and a pool inside a cave! Search rooms here .

21. Konya: Home of the Whirling Dervishes

Konya is known throughout Turkey and the world for one thing: As the home of the Islamic Mevlevi Order, AKA the Whirling Dervishes . As the last residence of Rumi, the Sufi sect was founded here in Turkey’s spiritual heartland back in 1273.

One of the top things to do in Konya is of course to enjoy an authentic Whirling Dervishes experience. Semas take place on weekends at the Mevlana Cultural Centre. The Mevlana Museum is very much worth visiting if you want to learn more about Dervish traditions – or for a fully immersive cultural experience, attend the Mevlana Festival, which is held every December.

Other points of interest include the myriad of beautiful mosques and the Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden.

Get there: 1-hour flight from Istanbul or 3 hours by road from Ankara. Where to stay: Konya Dervish Hotel, cosy rooms inside a 200-year-old Ottoman house. Search rooms here .

22. Amasra: A laid-back fishing village on the Black Sea

The fishing village of Amasra is a somewhat peaceful place to retreat from the crowds that descend on Turkey’s Black Sea Coast every summer. Small sandy beaches, restaurants serving fresh fish, and boat trips to the two nearby islands, Big Island and Rabbit Island, are among the most popular activities on offer.

Curvaceous Amasra takes its form from the natural harbour at its centre. The Roman-era Amasra Castle overlooks the bay, with a tide of little red roofs running down the hill to meet the inky waters of the Black Sea.

Get there: 5.5 hours by road from Istanbul. Where to stay: Amasra Kerem Apart, self-contained beach apartment with panoramic terrace views. Search rooms here .

23. Aladaglar National Park: Crimson Peaks & waterfalls

The perennially snow-capped mountains of Aladaglar National Park are a popular destination for skiing in winter and for trekking in the warmer months. The highest peaks in the park – there are no less than four that tower above 3,700 metres – command views of both the Black Sea and the Mediterranean.

The Ala-Daglar range extends over four provinces in central Turkey and offers some of the country’s best alpine hiking and mountaineering. One of the most beautiful spots here is the Kapuzbasi Waterfalls and glacier ponds, which offer cool relief for trekkers during summer.

Sunset in Aladaglar National Park is something else. Known as the ‘Crimson Mountains’ in Turkish, the Ala-Daglar are graced by a brilliant scarlet flush every evening, painting a truly magnificent picture.

Get there: 2 hours by road from Kayseri. Where to stay: Taurus Guest House, simple rooms and Turkish food prepared from organic ingredients at the edge of the park in Cukurbag. Search rooms here .

24. Sirince: Turkey’s breakfast village

One of the best things to do in Turkey is eat a lavish kahvalti spread breakfast – and one of the best places for breakfast in the entire country is in picturesque Sirince.

This small village on a hill is easy to reach from Izmir and less than 30 minutes’ drive from the ancient city of Ephesus. Known for its organic garden produce and the buzzing Sirince Bazaar, chefs here draw on local supplies to furnish some of the most delicious breakfast mezes in the land. There are dozens of cafes and pansiyons on the town’s pedestrian-only streets, each serving up different early morning specialties. Hilltop Sirincem Restaurant & Cafe Pansiyon is one of the most popular.

Come for breakfast, stay for the views! The old-style houses here command gorgeous outlooks from every direction. Spend a couple of slow-paced nights using Sirince as a base for visiting the various sights around the area – and you can enjoy a home-cooked kahvalti every morning!

Get there: 20 minutes by road from Ephesus or 1 hour by road from Izmir. Where to stay: Heaven’s Gate, an idyllic stone-and-wood family home with generous private suites and a pool. Search rooms here .

25. Sanliurfa: The City of Prophets

Sanliurfa (Urfa) is the ideal place to stay when visiting the world’s oldest temple, Gobekli Tepe. The Neolithic archaeological site is a mere 30 minutes by road from the city. But Urfa has its own charms that make it more than worthy of your time.

Sometimes called ‘the City of Prophets’, legend says that Abraham was born in Urfa. Its relevance to Jewish, Christian and Islamic history makes Sanliurfa a popular pilgrimage site for believers of the three faiths. Many of the city’s most prominent landmarks, including the Pool of Sacred Fish (where Nimrod cast Abraham into the fire), are tied to Biblical history. Take a stroll through the leafy Golbasi Park or explore the warren-like souq. Don’t miss the views from the 9th-century Urfa castle or a visit to the stunning 12th-century Great Mosque.

A must-do in Urfa is to stay at the Palmyra Boutique Hotel, which is set inside a restored palace. The opulent rooms and character-filled hallways and terraces are reason enough to visit Urfa!

Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Gaziantep. Where to stay: Palmyra Boutique Hotel, elegant rooms in the city centre. Search rooms here .

Which of these pretty places in Turkey are you most excited about visiting? What did I miss? Leave your recommendations in the comments below!

Turkey essentials

Here are some of the websites and services I recommend for planning a trip to Turkey. Remember to check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Turkey using the Skyscanner website .

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Turkey and apply for an expedited visa online.

DOCUMENTATION: Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip to Turkey with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

CAR HIRE: Use the Local Rent platform to hire a car from a local agent. Prices start from as little as 18€ per day.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Turkey hotel deals on Booking.com .

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Browse the Viator website to find the best itineraries and prices for Istanbul food tours, Cappadocia balloon rides and more!

More Turkey inspiration

• The perfect first-timer’s itinerary for 4 days in Istanbul
• Essential travel tips for Istanbul
• Istanbul travel budget
• Guide to Arnavutkoy , a hidden gem in Istanbul
• Tips for visiting Istanbul’s Galata Tower
• Where to go in Turkey in winter

Amazing Information.

Thanks for the great list.

Great list. I would also add Sanliurfa, Mardin and Diyarbakir. I believe they are amazing.

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20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Turkey

Written by Jess Lee Updated May 11, 2023

Author Jess Lee lives in Turkey and has been writing about traveling in Turkey for over a decade. She has authored several travel guidebooks to the country .

Packed to the brim with ancient monuments left over from a parade of empires, and endowed with showcase scenery that never fails to impress, Turkey is a dazzling destination that straddles Asia and Europe.

Its vibrant culture, famous food, and vast history wow all who venture here, while its glorious landscapes, from the sun-soaked Mediterranean to the mighty mountains and arid steppe, are tourist attractions in themselves.

Whether you want to lap up the Byzantine and Ottoman glories of Istanbul on a city break, laze on the beach, delve into history wandering through ruins such as Ephesus, or see some of the world's most surreal panoramas in Pamukkale and Cappadocia, this country offers visitors a wide range of things to do.

For ideas on the best places to visit read our list of the top tourist attractions in Turkey.

1. Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) Mosque

3. cappadocia, 4. topkapı palace, 5. pamukkale, 7. cruising the mediterranean, 8. mount nemrut, 9. ölüdeniz, 10. aspendos, 12. pergamum, 13. the blue mosque, 16. safranbolu, 17. the bosphorus, 18. gaziantep zeugma mosaic museum, 19. göbeklitepe, 20. sumela monastery, best time to visit turkey.

Highlight: Take in the majestic interior of one of Istanbul's most iconic buildings

Renowned as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world, the spellbinding Byzantine glory of the Hagia Sophia Mosque (Aya Sofya) is not only one of the top things to do in Istanbul, but also in Turkey.

Built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian in 537 CE, it is renowned as the Byzantine Empire's greatest architectural achievement and has remained the world's largest church for 1,000 years.

The staggering bulk of its exterior is rimmed by the delicate minarets added after the Ottoman conquest, while the sumptuous and cavernous frescoed interior is a grand reminder of old Constantinople's might and power.

This famed monument is a must-do for every tourist visiting the country.

• Read More: Exploring Hagia Sophia Mosque: A Visitor's Guide

Highlights: Crane your neck at the Library of Celsus, hike up the cavea of the Great Theater, and stroll amid the ruins of this ancient city

Not to be missed, the mighty ruin of Ephesus is a city of colossal monuments and marble-columned roads.

One of the most complete, still-standing famed cities of antiquity in the Mediterranean region, this is the place to experience what life must have been like during the golden age of the Roman Empire.

The city's history dates back to the 10th century BCE, but the major monuments you see today all date from its Roman era when it was a thriving commercial center.

In particular, the Library of Celsus, the complex of frescoed terraced houses, and the Great Theater all point to the wealth and importance of Ephesus during the Roman period.

A sightseeing trip here will take at least half a day to cover the major highlights and longer, if you really want to explore, so make sure you plan your visit so you don't feel rushed.

• Read More: Visiting Ephesus: Attractions, Tips & Tours

Highlights: Take in panoramic views from a hot-air balloon, hike within valleys of volcanic rock, and marvel at cave-chapel Byzantine art

The surreal, swooping rock valleys of Cappadocia are every photographer's dream.

Cliff ridges and hill crests are home to rippling panoramas of wave-like rock or wacky-shaped pinnacles that have been formed by millennia of wind and water action.

And if you don't feel like hiking for the views, this is one of the world's top destinations to take a hot-air balloon ride .

Nestled in this unique lunar-like landscape are the frescoed rock-cut churches and cave-cut architecture of the Byzantine Era, when this area was home to monastic Christian communities.

In particular, the multiple cave-churches of Göreme Open-Air Museum and Ihlara Valley are home to some of the best examples of surviving mid-Byzantine-era religious art in the world.

Cappadocia's villages, half hewn into the hillsides, where travelers base themselves to explore the surrounding countryside, are also an attraction in themselves, with their boutique hotels that allow you to bed down in a cave with full contemporary comforts.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cappadocia
• Top-Rated Things to Do in Turkey

Highlights: Soak up the Ottoman finery amid the salons of the sultans

Sumptuous beyond belief, Istanbul's Topkapı Palace takes you into the fantastical, opulent world of the Sultans.

It was from here, during the 15th and 16th centuries, that the sultans of the Ottoman era carved out an empire that would extend up into Europe and down through the Middle East and into Africa.

The interiors, with their decadently exuberant tiling and lavish jeweled decor, are an unforgettable peek into the Ottoman's power base.

In particular, don't miss the Imperial Council building, where the empire's business was conducted by the Grand Vizier; the arms collection displayed in the Imperial Treasury; the world-class collection of miniature paintings; and the dazzling Harem rooms, which were designed by the famed Ottoman architect Sinan.

The surrounding public gardens were once the sole domain of the Royal Court but are now open to the public and provide a tranquil, green respite from the city streets.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Istanbul

Highlights : Hike up the famed white terraces, swim in the antique pool, then take in the views from the top tier of the theater's cavea

One of Turkey's most famous natural wonders, the pure white travertine terraces of Pamukkale ("Cotton Castle" in English) cascade down the slope looking like an out-of-place snowfield amid the green landscape.

Although the travertines are themselves a highlight of a Turkey trip, the vast and rambling ruins of Greco-Roman Hierapolis, an ancient spa town, lie scattered across the summit of this calcite hill.

After exploring the ancient theater, with its views across the countryside, and the remnants of the city's agora, gymnasium, necropolis, and grand gates, you can swim in the mineral-rich waters which made this ancient spa town famous, in the antique pool.

Afterward, walk down the travertine hill, wading through the pools of water in the upper terraces, to the small modern village of Pamukkale below.

For the best photographs, come at dusk when the travertines glow as the sun sinks below the horizon.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Pamukkale

Highlights: Stroll the twisty lanes of the old town, sloth on the beach, or launch yourself out on history-filled trips amid the hilltop ruins of the hinterland

This bustling Mediterranean hub has something for everyone.

The two main beaches outside of town are sun-sloth heaven in summer and attract holidaymakers from across Europe. While the old town area, snug right in the center of town, with its cobblestone alleyways rimmed by creaky Ottoman-era mansions, is a wonderful place to explore.

The Antalya Museum is renowned as one of the country's best, with an astonishing collection of Hellenistic and Roman marble statuary, and there are bags of attractions outside of town for travelers who want to use Antalya as a base.

In particular, Antalya is an easy base for day trips to some of Turkey's most famous Greco-Roman ruins, including Aspendos and Perge, which are just outside the city, and the town of Side, with its glut of ruins.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Antalya

Highlight: Experience Turkey's dramatic coastline from the sea on a scenic slow-travel adventure

Turkey's Mediterranean coastline has ruins galore and many things to do, but for many people, it's all about soaking up the sun while enjoying the gorgeous coastal views.

Cruising on a yacht is the number one activity for visitors to Bodrum and Fethiye for good reason. The steep forest-clad slopes, hidden coves sporting tiny white-sand beaches, and hundreds of scattered islands are the perfect place for exploring by sea. Even diehard landlubbers will be impressed.

One of the most famous trips is known as the Blue Cruise and travels from Fethiye south down the coast until disembarking near Olympos , home to the famous natural phenomenon of the Chimaera.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bodrum

Highlight: Hike up to the summit to see the sun rise over the mountaintop ruins

The top sightseeing drawcard for eastern Turkey, Mount Nemrut's summit funerary mound is scattered with the broken remnants of once mammoth statues, which guarded it.

This weird and lonely place has to be one of Turkey's most peculiar archaeological sites. The giant stone heads of long-forgotten gods stare out from the summit, casting an eerie atmosphere over the barren mountaintop.

The summit's building works are the work of Antiochus I, ruler of the Commagene Kingdom, which lay here in the buffer region between the Roman and Parthian empires.

Antiochus I dedicated this grand funerary mound to himself as a showcase of his importance, raising a 50-meter-high artificial peak on Mount Nemrut's summit and then decorating it with statues of himself and various gods.

The most popular time to visit is at sunrise, so you can watch the statues as they loom out of the dark.

• Read More: Exploring Mount Nemrut: A Visitor's Guide

Highlights: Turkey's tandem paragliding hub, resort living, and lazy beach life

Impossibly turquoise-blue water. Check. Lush green forest tumbling down a cliff to a white-sand beach. Check. The sheltered inlet of Ölüdeniz, just a short journey from Fethiye, is Turkey's most famous beach, and with scenery that might as well have fallen off a perfect postcard, it's easy to see why its popularity hasn't waned.

If the beach gets too crowded, it's time to take to the skies and experience the stunning aerial views on a tandem paragliding dive off the summit of mighty Babadağ (Mount Baba), which rises up behind the shore.

Oh, did we mention that Ölüdeniz is one of the world's top paragliding destinations? Check.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Fethiye

Highlight: Admire this monumental relic of Roman rule

Just south of the resort city of Antalya, the jaw-dropping mammoth bulk of the Roman Theater of Aspendos celebrates the pomp and ceremony of Marcus Aurelius' rule.

Considered the finest surviving example of a classical age theater still standing in the world, the highly restored, 15,000-seat theater is one of antiquity's star attractions.

Although the theater is the main reason for a visit here (and for most visitors on a half-day trip from nearby Antalya or Side, the theater is all they see) the Aspendos site offers plenty more ruins to explore.

There are remnants of an aqueduct, agora, stadium, and a Byzantine-era basilica, all scattered over the vast hillside area here surrounding the theater.

Read More: Aspendos: A Visitor's Guide

Highlights: Hike amid the Lycian ruins then relax on Turkey's longest beach

With such a long Mediterranean coastline, there's a beach for every type of sun worshipper in Turkey, but Patara is among its most famous swathes of sand.

Trailing for 18 kilometers along the shoreline, the beach offers plenty of space, so even in the height of summer, you can still find a quiet spot far away from the crowds.

Adding to the experience, just behind the sand, are the vast ruins of Ancient Patara , which include a colonnaded street, restored bouleuterion (the parliament of the city), and a theater that sat 5,000 people.

Once you've had your fill of sun, sand, and swimming, wander behind the sand dunes and explore the crumbling remnants of this once-prosperous Lycian city.

Patara is easily reached from both Kas and Fethiye.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions in Fethiye

Highlights: Panoramic vistas across the ruins and surrounding hills from the Acropolis and theater

Turkey has an abundance of Greco-Roman ruins, but none can be so romantically placed as ancient Pergamum in modern-day Bergama.

Once home to one of the ancient world's most important libraries (which rivaled Alexandria's library in prominence) and home to the famed medical school run by Galen, Pergamum's remaining temple remnants now preside dramatically across a hilltop.

It's an incredibly atmospheric place to explore. The Acropolis area with its theater cut into the hillside holds the most remains and offers sweeping panoramic views across the countryside.

Below, the Asklepion area is home to the ruins of the city's renowned medical center.

This is a great place to visit if you want to get a real feel for life in the Classical era.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Pergamum and the North Aegean

Highlight: An opulent interior with the Ottoman era's delicately detailed blue-and-white tiles

This famous mosque (officially called the Sultanahmet Mosque), facing the Hagia Sophia Mosque across Sultanahmet Park in Istanbul, is one of Turkey's most visited monuments.

Built by Sultan Ahmed I, the mosque was designed to mimic the Hagia Sophia by the architect Sedefkar Mehmet Ağa, a disciple of the Ottoman era's most renowned architect, Sinan.

With six slender minarets and a sprawling courtyard complex, everything about the Blue Mosque is on a grand scale but it's best known for its prayer hall interior covered in tens of thousands of blue Iznik tiles (for which the mosque gained its moniker), lit by shards of light from 260 windows.

Non-worshipping visitors are welcome to visit outside of prayer times. Everyone must have knees and shoulders covered, and females must wear a headscarf.

Highlight: Strolling amid the ruins of one of the Classical world's most famous mythical cities

One of Turkey's most well-known ancient ruins, this site is thought by many to be the Troy of Homer's Iliad .

Whether it is, or not, the Troy of the Trojan War myths, the multi-layered, rambling ruins here expose a vast history of occupation, abandonment, and reoccupation that stretches right back to the early Bronze Age.

The ruins include well-preserved city walls and fortifications, the remnants of a palace, megarons (Mycenean hall complexes) and houses, along with later Roman-era sanctuary and Odeon monuments.

Just down the road from the Troy site is the new Troy Museum , one of Turkey's best museums.

The vast and thoughtfully collated collection inside tells the tale of Troy, from its earliest occupation right through to the modern era, including the mythology that surrounds the site; the controversial and damaging excavations of early archaeological work here; and the story of the missing cache of gold, silver, and copper artifacts (known as Prium's Treasure) currently held at Moscow's Pushkin Museum, which were unearthed at the site and illegally smuggled out of Turkey by Heinrich Schliemann.

Read More: Visiting Troy from Istanbul

Highlight: Rambling this vast site of shattered churches set high on the steppe

The ruins of the powerful Silk Road city of Ani sit abandoned on the plains rubbing up against Turkey's modern border with Armenia.

Once capital of the Armenian Kingdom, Ani's golden age came to an end in the 14th century after Mongol raids, earthquake destruction, and trade route tussling all played their part in the city's decline.

The beautiful red-brick buildings still crumbling away amid the steppe grass have a mesmerizing effect on all who visit.

Don't miss the Church of the Redeemer and the Church of Saint Gregory, with their elaborate stone masonry and fresco remnants still visible; the bulky Ani Cathedral building; and the Manuçehr Mosque, built by the Seljuk Turks when they captured the city in the 11th century and thought to be the first mosque built in what would become Turkey.

Highlight: Idly wandering cobblestone streets amid the old town of wood-beamed mansions

Turkey's best-preserved Ottoman town is a fabulously photogenic place of skinny winding alleys crammed with finely restored wooden mansions which were once the home of wealthy merchants and now have been transformed into boutique hotels and restaurants.

There's little to actually do in town. Instead, this is a place to simply stroll the streets and admire the old-world atmosphere.

It's also known for its traditional sweets and crafts and there are plenty of cute shops where you can pick up a unique souvenir.

If you're road-tripping inland from Istanbul, this is a fantastic place to stop-off for the night and experience the historic ambience.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Safranbolu

Highlight: Take a scenic sightseeing trip on Istanbul's famed continent-dividing strait

One of the world's great waterways, the Bosphorus Strait separates Europe from Asia and connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara (and hence, out to the Mediterranean).

Cruising along the Bosphorus, whether by hopping local ferries, on a tourist ferry cruise, or a private boat, is one of the great tourist attractions of an Istanbul stay. This is the most relaxing sightseeing opportunity in Istanbul.

Onboard, it's all about soaking up the scenery from the water, with the shorefront lined with Ottoman palaces; villas; and wooden mansions out to Rumeli Fortress, built by Mehmet the Conqueror; and (farther north along the strait), the Byzantine-era ramparts of Anadolu Fortress.

Highlight: A dazzling collection of Greco-Roman mosaic artistry

Due to the ongoing aid response in the aftermath of Turkey's February 2023 earthquake, the Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum has been temporarily closed. For information on reopening, check the official museum website .

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.

Nearly all the Hellenistic and Roman-era floor mosaics displayed here are originally from the Greco-Roman ruins of the town of Zeugma, which is now half-submerged due to the construction of the Bericik Dam. The mosaics, cleverly curated and displayed so that they can be viewed from their best angles, provide visitors with a sense of the artistry of the Greco-Roman era.

Despite the many huge mosaics here, the most famous mosaic in the collection, known as the Gypsy Girl , is one of the smallest pieces. It is displayed dramatically in its own darkened room, so that the intricate artistry of the piece can be better appreciated.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Gaziantep

Highlight: Soaking up the atmosphere of standing amid the world's earliest religious monument

One of Turkey's most important ancient ruins, the hilltop site of Göbeklitepe , near Şanlıurfa, has generated hundreds of headlines worldwide, been anointed with UNESCO World Heritage status, (and provided the inspiration for the Netflix series The Gift ) since it was opened to the public.

This small site of towering T-shaped pillars, inscribed with animal figures and anthropomorphic details, dates from the pre-pottery Neolithic era and is thought by archaeologists to be the world's earliest religious sanctuary.

Although it may not have the wow-factor of Turkey's many, much later Bronze Age and Greco-Roman ancient sites, Göbeklitepe's importance in our understanding of early human history has made it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Turkey's southeast.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Şanlıurfa

Highlight: Exploring this stunning Byzantine religious center that clings to the cliff-side

With its stunning, lonely setting, built into a cliff face, Sumela Monastery (Monastery of the Virgin Mary) is the star attraction for visitors along the Black Sea Coast.

Wandering around this abandoned religious complex, with its church interiors crammed with dazzling and vibrant frescoes, is a must for anyone who makes the long journey to Turkey's northeast region.

The monastery first opened during the Byzantine era and only ceased operation as a working religious center in 1923, when the monks were forced to leave as part of the Greek-Turkish Population Exchange.

Today, wandering its empty cells, it's easy to imagine the isolated lives of the monks who once lived here.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on the Black Sea Coast

Overall, depending on what you plan to do, Turkey can be visited year-round, but for the most dependable weather, the best times to visit are the months of May, June, July, August, September, and October.

May, June, September, and October are the prime time for Turkey travels, with plenty of blue skies and sunshine and softer light for photography, but fewer crowds. Just remember to pack a warmer layer for after dark and a jacket in case of rain.

Spring wildflowers bloom across the countryside in May, while the displays of colorful fall foliage during October make these two months the best for keen photographers.

July and August are the most popular months to visit, with temperatures regularly peaking over 30 degrees Celsius and little chance of rain disrupting your plans. If you're here specifically for the beach and activities on the water, this is peak season.

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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.

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.

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

Antalya, İzmir, Goreme and Ankara are really great, need to be seen but Istanbul is the most charming one, don’t miss it.

Why on earth is Ankara here? En kara, more like! Dull city. Erzerum, Sivas, Martin, even Diyarbakir more interesting

marmaris is the best

This southwestern Turkish destination is a vibrant haven you can easily fall in love with.

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?

Dear Rekha,

check out our Istanbul guide for all necessary information about the city.

Best regards, GBB Team

You’re right

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

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.

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!

I loved Antalya when I visited Turkey! Definitely a must-visit. Thanks for this amazing list.

thank you for your comment, we appreciate it!

I loved Istanbul when i visited turkey really i enjoyed

thanks for your comment, we appreciate it!

Best GBB Team

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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20 Best Beach Towns and Coastal Cities in Turkey

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

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Are you looking for the best beach towns and coastal cities in Turkey? You are in luck.

Turkey is blessed with thousands of miles of stunning shorelines catering to every type of traveler. Nestled between the Mediterranean and Aegean seas, Turkey’s coastline is a treasure trove of pristine beaches, charming towns, and vibrant cities waiting to be explored.

From the azure waters of Antalya to the golden sands of Bodrum, each destination offers a unique blend of sun-soaked relaxation, mesmerizing landscapes, rich history, and mouth-watering cuisine. And let’s not forget about the seaside towns by Turkey’s Black Sea in the North!

After having the luck to visit these beachside destinations, we are here to share 20 of our favorite coastal cities and beach towns in Turkey. Ready to soak up the sun, sea, and sand? Let’s go!

What Are The Best Beach Towns in Turkey?

1. ölüdeniz.

Ölüdeniz is without a doubt one of the most stunning and beautiful coastal towns in Turkey. Famed for its breathtaking Blue Lagoon , Ölüdeniz offers its visitors genuinely crystal-clear turquoise waters and powdery white sand beaches, all with the incredible contrast of the diamond-green colored, pine tree-laden mountains in the background.

Blue Lagoon isn’t the only famous attraction in Ölüdeniz . Thrill-seekers will be glad to know that there’s the option of paragliding off of the side of Babadag Mountain which rewards those brave enough with spectacular views of the rugged, mountainous coastline.

For those that want to stay on two feet, the Lycian Way Trail ends in the hills of Ölüdeniz and near Butterfly Valley, and after a long and strenuous hike through waterfalls, jagged clifftops and ancient ruins, you’ll have the best views of Ölüdeniz and Fethiye in the distance.

Perched on a small peninsula extending out into the Black Sea is the beautiful Turkish coastal town of Amasra. Full of charm and tranquillity, Amasra is a perfect destination for a summer holiday that’s properly off the beaten track.

Amasra has a rich history with the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines all settling in the town leaving behind remnants of the empires that once were. The town is also home to well-preserved ancient ruins, bridges, and even a Roman castle.

There are also two picturesque bays, one on either side of the main peninsula, with beautiful soft sand and equally beautiful water. On an evening, the promenades come alive with the many bars and restaurants all vying for custom, serving cocktails, and freshly caught seafood.

Read More: Can You Swim In The Black Sea?

Named after the many Ottoman fountains found spread throughout the city, Cesme is a lovely little seaside town in Turkey, just one hour’s drive from Izmir, that is becoming more and more popular with tourists and locals looking for a relaxing, yet lively beachside escape.

Hotels have largely taken over the beaches in the immediate area but there’s still ample space for those wanting to just relax for free and take in the beautiful Aegean Sea.

Several luxury hotels and mega beach resorts line the beach giving you a misconception that Cesme is a busy resort town.

But among the all inclusive resorts, beach clubs, and snazzy bars, you’ll find traditional narrow streets lined with quaint cafes, local restaurants, boutique hotels, and markets of a weekend giving you an amazing blend of vibrancy and all-important Mediterranean vibes.

Alacati is a small beach town on the south Aegean coast, a little less than an hour’s drive from the popular coastal city of Izmir.

This Turkish seaside town is known for its picturesque charm, with rustic stone houses smothered in the almost luminous pink of Bougainvillea and snaking cobbled streets of the Ottoman Empire filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes combine to create an incredibly unique bustling but laid-back Turkish coast atmosphere.

Once you’re done exploring all of the nooks and crannies of the old town, head down to the bay and test yourself with some windsurfing. Alacati is one of the best places in Turkey to windsurf due to the strong winds coming off of the open ocean.

5. Kusadasi

Kusadasi, nestled within its own bay, is an attractive beach town in Turkey often referred to as the gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus, which is just a 20-minute drive away. This makes it an ideal base for exploring the remarkable archaeological site as well as for a relaxed, beachside holiday perhaps with the children in tow.

Ladies Beach is one of the most popular spots to catch some Mediterranean sun, and its intriguing name is due to the fact only females were allowed to swim here during the Ottoman Empire’s reign of the region.

Elsewhere, the palm tree-laden promenade is a peaceful evening walk along the beachfront leading into the multitude of bars and restaurants catering to hungry locals and tourists alike.

Moving further down south, Kaş is an unspoiled Turkish beach town in the province of Antalya, and a firm favorite of historians and archaeologists due to being built on the site of the ancient port of Antiphellus . Ruins that can be seen today include various hillside tombs and a perfectly preserved amphitheater dating back over 2000 years.

Aside from these fascinating relics of Turkey’s past, Kaş is also home to some of the best beaches in Turkey. Kaputas Beach , nestled in the middle of towering cliffs, is one of the beaches in Turkey that’s most dramatic, and Big Pebble Beach in the heart of Kas is another that’s always a popular choice for swimming and sunbathing.

Don’t forget to grab a snorkel or go out on scuba diving boat trips. Kaş is one of the best places for snorkeling and diving in the entire Mediterranean Sea with shipwrecks and plane wrecks to explore and various rare marine life to swim with.

Much like the small seaside village of Oludeniz, Icmeler is a charming town completely surrounded on all three sides by pine forests in the mountains. With this in mind, Icmeler is a stunning little beach town for those that like to stay active through hikes and other activities.

The turquoise waters and white sand of Icmeler Beach are beautifully maintained, offering visitors hundreds of sun loungers and umbrellas. Along the beachfront, you’ll also find plenty of bars, restaurants boutique hotels, and shops to keep you busy.

Being only a 15-minute drive away from the incredibly popular beach resort town of Marmaris, Icmeler offers a more laid-back atmosphere than its loud and busy neighbor but is still within close proximity to enjoy everything it has to offer.

What Are The Best Coastal Cities In Turkey?

1. istanbul.

Istanbul is one of Turkey’s most popular destinations, and for good reason. A melting pot of East meets West, where Europe becomes Asia. Now, many might not immediately think of Istanbul being a coastal city, but it’s certainly right on the Turkish coast, two in fact. The Black Sea to the north, and the Sea of Marmara to the south, with the Bosphorus Strait flowing in between.

Exploring the best of what Istanbul has to offer will lead you to some incredible places, like the Hagia Sophia, a 1,500-year-old church turned mosque following the invasion of the Ottoman Empire, and The Blue Mosque, standing tall in Sultanahmet Square since the early 1600s with its famous blue-tiled interior.

A stroll down Istiklal Street will see you pass hundreds of shops, cafes, and restaurants with Turkish street food sellers on the side, and how can you forget a visit to the Topkapi Palace, the former headquarters-turned-museum of the Ottoman Empire before retiring back to one of the many boutique hotels in the city.

Read More: Suggested Istanbul Itineraries: 3 to 7-Day Options

With a population of almost 3 million, Turkey’s third-largest city happens to sit on the southern coast of the Aegean Sea, bathing in the gorgeous Mediterranean sun year-round. This makes it a perfect destination for any time of year. Even in January, the thick of the Turkish winter, temperatures still rarely drop below 12-13 degrees Celsius.

There are many things to do in Izmir . The myriad of mazy alleys and streets filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants all emanating some amazing smells just keep you wanting to explore deeper and deeper. If you fancy catching some fresh sea air, head down to Izmir’s promenade which extends pretty much the entirety of the bay along the Aegean.

Finally, what’s a visit to Izmir without seeing the famous Clock Tower? Built in 1901 in the city’s Konak Square, it’s become a symbol of the city and even featured on Turkey’s 500 Lira banknotes.

Read More: Best Time To Visit Izmir

Antalya is Turkey’s second most popular tourist destination thanks to its gorgeous soft sandy beaches of Kaputas, Kleopatra, Lara, and Konyaalti.

Part of the Turkish Riviera, many private beach resorts have set themselves up to cater to the mass influx of domestic and international tourists here in the summer months, but even beyond the golden sands and deep blue of the Mediterranean, there’s still plenty to see and do in this incredible city and province.

Starting with Aspendos Theatre , this remarkably well-preserved ancient amphitheater is unmissable on a trip to Antalya, and just 25 miles from the center, it’s the perfect day trip from Antalya for any history buff.

Duden Waterfalls is an amazing waterfall in Antalya and a popular option for holidaymakers wanting some adventure, and speaking of adventure, hikers will love the famous Lycian Way, which begins in Antalya and stretches over 500 kilometers of pristine Mediterranean coastline.

Don’t miss Antalya’s historic center, otherwise known as “ Kaleiçi ” or Old Town. It’s a beautiful area that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the city. This district is where you can truly feel the historical and spiritual influences that have shaped Antalya over centuries.

And of course, we have to mention Lara Beach (again). It is perhaps the most famous beach in Turkey, a blue flag beach with long stretches of soft sand, beach clubs, water sports centers, and a stunning hotel zone.

Read More: When Is The Best Time To Visit Antalya?

Heading an hour’s drive east of Antalya city center sits the quaint town of Side (pronounced ‘see day’) on the famed Turquoise Coast . Mostly overshadowed by its much larger and more popular neighbor, Side often flies well under the radar of those wanting a typical Turkish beach holiday.

It’s a beautiful blend of the typical Mediterranean natural beauty, with ancient history that makes one of the most beautiful cities in Turkey . Two beautiful beaches, appropriately named East & West Beach, effectively surround the historic town itself, and just a short 10-minute drive out of town, you’ll find the jaw-dropping natural wonder of Manavgat Waterfall .

It’s one of the most visited waterfalls in Turkey, with locals and tourists bringing picnics and spending the day at this stunning site.

Not to be confused with the very similar-sounding city of Antalya, Alanya is a much smaller coastal city nestled away in between the imposing Taurus Mountains and the Meditteranean Coast, offering travelers a unique natural landscape.

Alanya has a deep history which is on show at historic sites even today, with the iconic Alanya Castle being the number one thing to do. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, it was built on the remnants of an ancient Byzantine fortress.

Other than visiting the most beautiful beach towns and white sandy beaches in the area like Cleopatra Beach , why not head out on an adventurous jeep safari where you’ll traverse the mountainous terrain stopping off at canyons, waterfalls, and mud baths along the way? There are so many things to do in Alanya , despite being relatively small in size.

6. Marmaris

Marmaris is one of the most popular destinations for holidaymakers on Turkey’s Mediterranean Coast and is evidenced by its heaving nature pretty much year-round. In recent times, it’s become a little bit more party-oriented than catering to just families, but that’s not to say it’s all beers, cocktail buckets, and thumping music until the early hours.

Peaceful boat trips are one of the best things to do in Marmaris, making full use of the stunning blue seas and panoramic vistas at your disposal.

Marmaris Marina is also a pleasant place to spend the evening, with the lights from the boats and the many bars and restaurants along the waterfront, having some cocktails and a candlelit dinner is a great way to end the day. For the kids, Marmaris is home to some of the best waterparks in the country such as Atlantis and AquaDream.

Situated on the South Aegean Coast is the beautiful coastal city of Bodrum, one of the most popular beach destinations in Turkey. Bodrum really comes alive in the evenings, when the sun goes down and everyone comes to enjoy the bars, restaurants, and boutique shops in the charming streets of the city’s Old Town.

Nightlife in Bodrum is definitely catered to the tourist crowds here, with ‘Bar Street’ a bustling favorite, and when the night gets a little too heavy, the beautiful sandy beaches to recover on aren’t far away. Gumbet Beach is a popular choice, as is Turgutreis, which is a 25-minute drive away, and hosts a wonderful local market on Saturdays.

Bodrum is also home to some of the most luxurious beach resorts in Turkey . So if you want to splurge on your vacation and be by the beach, then make sure you check out Bodrum!

Fethiye is a picturesque port city on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast and offers picture-perfect landscapes that are hard to beat anywhere on the planet. Fethiye is worth visiting if you’re a nature lover.

The city itself is built upon an old ancient town, some of which you can still see today like the Lycian Rock Tombs (Amyntas Rock Tombs) that are carved into the mountainside. If you’re up for it, you can actually hike up to these tombs and go inside. Turn around and you’ll get incredible panoramic views of Fethiye and its bay, though there’s not much inside of them.

Saklikent National Park is also a great day out, where you can hike through imposing narrow canyons and cool off the fast-flowing, ice-cold water. If you need some rest and relaxation, Oludeniz is not far away, and it’s postcard-worthy Blue Lagoon. Oh – and don’t forget a sunset dinner on top of Babadag Mountain. The views across the coastline are unmissable.

Fethiye is also a good base to explore the Butterfly Valley , a dense pine forest valley that leads to a secluded beach with turquoise waters and beautiful views!

An old seaport dating back to the 7th century, Kemer is nothing short of a hidden gem when it comes to Turkey’s Turquoise Coast.

One must-visit place is Tahtalı Dağı , also known as Mount Olympos. Whether you hike or take the Olympos Cable Car, reaching the summit rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the region.

Explore the ancient city of Phaselis , where you can wander through its well-preserved ruins and marvel at the ancient Greek & Roman way of life. It is believed that the ruins date back to 700 BC!

For a beach destination that features historic sites, stunning beaches, and beautiful mountains, Kemer is the place to go!

10. Trabzon

Leaving the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean behind, we find ourselves on Turkey’s northern coastline with the Black Sea city of Trabzon. It’s a far cry from any of the other sun-bleached, sand-filled coastal cities we’ve mentioned, instead focusing on the luscious hillsides and valleys of this often-forgotten region of Turkey.

The most famous attraction in Trabzon is the phenomenal Sumela Monastery . Built into a steep cliff 1,200 meters (3,900 ft) above ground in the Altındere valley, this ancient Orthodox monastery is one of the most stunning landmarks in Turkey .

Don’t miss Uzungol , a natural lake and a picturesque village approximately 1.5 hours from the seaside city of Trabzon. The lake is situated on the foothills of the Soganli Mountains and is surrounded by lush greenery and high mountains, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

The Mediterranean City of Mersin is one of the best hidden gems in Turkey. The city is most famous for being built on the ruins of an ancient settlement, perhaps as old as more than 6000 years ago.

Mersin’s geographical location, right on the cusp of the Middle East, brought together several empires, notably the Persians, Romans, and Byzantines.

Mersin’s beaches are beautiful and relatively untouched, with Maiden Beach being the best along with Susanoglu near Silifke. In Mersin city center, Mersin Marina is one of Turkey’s largest and features a huge variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars for you to enjoy, and whilst you’re in the area, Saint Antuan Latin Catholic Church is a must.

Situated along the Black Sea, Samsun is the largest city on the Turkish Black Sea coast, lying between the deltas of the Kızıl and Yeşil rivers.

The city is also known for being called Amisos, which is the name of the city under the Byzantines. It was only renamed Samsun after the Seljuq Turk took over in the latter half of the 12 century. The city is recognized as the place that inspired the Turkish War of Independence.

For beach lovers, make sure you check out Atakum Beach , a sandy beach that stretches a good portion of the city. It has a beautiful promenade with a cycling path, and it’s lined with cafes and restaurants where you can sample local cuisine.

Because it is believed that the start of Turkish War Independence was started here, there are many museums dedicated to that event. Don’t miss out on the Bandirma Vapuru Museum, a replica of the steamboat that carried Mustafa Kemal Atatürk from Istanbul to Samsun at the start of the Turkish War of Independence.

13. Çanakkale

Tucked in the north Aegean Coast, The coastal city of Çanakkale is one of the most overlooked seaside destinations in Turkey. While there aren’t stunning beaches like those destinations on the southern Turkish coast, Çanakkale has a beautiful waterfront with charming cafes and restaurants.

The landscape in Çanakkale is gorgeous, as visitors can admire the beauty of the extremely narrow Dardanelles Strait that decides Europe and Asia. The nearby Gallipoli Peninsula is best known for its significant role in World War I during the Gallipoli Campaign, or the Battle of Gallipoli. Here you can visit the Çanakkale Martyrs’ Memorial, a powerful tribute to the fallen soldiers of World War I.

Çanakkale is also known for the ancient ruins of Troy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a fascinating glimpse into the Bronze Age civilization. The site gained worldwide fame through Homer’s epic poem, “The Iliad,” which recounts the story of the Trojan War.

Map of The Best Turkish Beach Towns And Coastal Cities

Beach Towns And Coastal Cities In Turkey FAQs

What are the best places to visit on the turkish riviera.

The best places to visit on the Turkish Riviera are Antalya, Fethiye, Bodrum, Kas, Kusadasi, Side, and Alanya. These destinations are home to some of the best beaches in Turkey and are filled with history and gorgeous landscapes.

Where Are The Best Beaches In Turkey?

The best beaches in Turkey are near the country’s Southern Mediterranean Coast. It is also nicknamed the Turquoise Coast thanks to the high concentration of blue flag beaches and crystal clear water!

As you can see, there are plenty of amazing coastal cities and beach towns in Turkey! Whether you are looking for a destination with pristine beaches, a historic seaside city, or a lively port city with restaurants bars, and a lively nightlife, hopefully you found it in this article!

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Louisa Smith

Louisa is a professional travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust for exploring the captivating country of Turkey. With a deep appreciation for the country’s diverse history and natural beauty, Louisa has made it her mission to share the wonders of Turkey with the world. Born in the UK and raised by two Travel Agent parents, she was born with a perpetual case of the travel bug and now travels full time as a travel writer. Louisa has embarked on numerous adventures across Turkey, and shares her first-hand expertise and experience about her favorite destinations in Turkey, such as Antalya, Alanya, Fethiye and Bodrum.

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Places To Visit in Turkey

Here are the top 36 tourist places in turkey, 1. istanbul.

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

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9 Day Turkey Itinerary with Hot Air Balloon Ride

Turkey tour package with pamukkale baths, 10 day turkey itinerary with cable car tour & konya sightseeing, 7 days turkey tour package - bosphorus cruise in istanbul, highlights of turkey honeymoon package - witness fairy chimneys, istanbul antalya package - 6 days 5 nights, 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 ...

Best Time: April - June, September - October

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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10 Best Non-Touristy Cities to Visit in Turkey

Which places to visit in Turkey? Here’s an overview of the best 10 non-touristy cities to visit in Turkey and reasons why you should visit them, written by the Turkish travel blogger Doruk from toptiertraveler .

Thanks to its amazing diversity, Turkey is without a doubt one of the best countries in the world to visit for tourists.

It’s really difficult to make a list of cities to visit in Turkey since each city (and even regions inside cities) in this beautiful country is distinct from one another and they all offer unique experiences to their visitors.

Although you can come up with this conclusion pretty easily, the majority of people are unaware of it.

For the overwhelming majority of visitors, Istanbul and Ankara are the top destinations, though cities like Bursa and Trabzon are completely ignored. However, if you have the time and resources, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t visit some of Turkey’s lesser-known but equally beautiful cities.

“If you have the time,” is the main phrase here. Since Turkey is such a large country, some of the cities on this list would require you to drive (if you have a rental car) or take buses or trains for long distances.

However, once you arrive at each of your destinations, you will undoubtedly realize that the long trip was well worth it.

Before moving on to the list, there’s one more thing I’d like to note.

Turkey has a long and fascinating history, as you will learn while reading (or you might already know this if you have visited the country).

Millions of people have called Anatolia home, from prehistoric civilizations to the mighty empire of Rome and the Ottomans. This has resulted in a cultural and historical richness in modern-day Turkey, which is what distinguishes each of the cities on this list.

The east and west, the north and south, are all very different from one another, and many visitors feel as though they are entering a new country each time they visit a new region.

Reading Tip: 9 Beautiful Places to visit in Turkey

That being said, it is now time to move on to the overview of the 10 best non-touristic cities to visit in Turkey…

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Bursa was given the nickname “Yeşil Bursa” (Green Bursa) thanks to the numerous parks and beautiful mountains inside and around the city.

It was once the capital of the Ottoman state, and its importance as an industrial center is still felt today. In the winter, the ski resort of Mount Uludag, which overlooks it, is a popular destination for skiers.

In the summer, the mountain provides relief from the heat and breathtaking views. You can take the teleferik to the summit.

Another place to go to is Cumalkizik, a preserved Ottoman village just outside of the city center with quaint cobblestone streets, which offers a glimpse into the traditional Turkish way of life; come here for the huge village breakfast spreads.

Trabzon is a beautiful city for two reasons: it is located on the Black Sea in northern Turkey, and the Pontic Mountains pass through it, giving it a hill-station feel.

The region offers a unique viewpoint on Turkey, with plenty of quiet moments. A popular place to explore is the Sumela Monastery, established by the Greek Orthodox Church in 346 AD.

Here in Trabzon you can: spend the night near the Uzun Göl or Long Lake, watch the sunset over the Black Sea at Boztepe, and pay your respects to the nation’s founding father at the Trabzon Ataturk Kosku museum.

Trabzon also has its own Hagia Sophia, which is not to be confused with Istanbul’s!

3. Kusadasi (Aydin)

Kusadasi is a lively and pleasant city to visit, and it is a perfect holiday destination thanks to the various package-tour companies that operate here.

Tourists will enjoy a variety of hotels, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs along the coast, with the party scene being particularly memorable. What’s more surprising is that, despite these amenities, Kusadasi (Aydin) is still less common than its neighbors Izmir and Mugla.

Kusadasi is well worth a visit due to its proximity to some interesting historical and natural sites, in addition to the stunning beaches and spectacular views of the sea.

The ancient site of Ephesus is interesting to visit, and the Dilek Peninsula National Park is perfect for getting back to nature.

4. Canakkale

The seaport of Canakkale is situated on Turkey’s Dardanelles strait’s Asian coast, in an area rich in ancient and modern history, as well as time-tested myths and legends. In fact, many of Canakkale’s sights and activities are connected to the city’s most popular stories.

The wonderful city of Canakkale, which was first inhabited about 6,000 years ago during the Copper Age, has seen numerous invading armies pass through the area and has been ruled by a number of different states.

The legendary Trojan Wars and the Gallipoli Campaign, the most well-known battle between the Allies and the Ottomans in World War I, both took place nearby, as did the Greek mythology epic love story Hero and Leander.

Going on a historical tour of Gallipoli, visiting the many museums inside the city, admiring the massive castles, and paying your respects to the martyrs of the deadly First World War are the best activities to do here.

5. Sanliurfa

Many people visit Sanliurfa, also known as Urfa and “the Prophet’s City,” for pilgrimages or to renew their spirits. It’s intoxicating to walk around the nearby bazaar, trying to take in all that’s going on. It has a distinct Middle Eastern flavor.

Though the city is increasingly evolving as a result of urban development projects, the beautiful Dergah Park and Mosque Complex serves as a reminder of the city’s ancient past. Anyone visiting Urfa should make a point of visiting the ancient Gobekli Tepe temple.

Konya is a romantic city that would appeal to poets and dreamers alike. It’s no wonder that in the 13th century, Mevlana Rumi, the famous Sufi poet and whirling dervish, wrote his famous, heartfelt verses here.

Your first stop should definitely be the Mevlana Museum, which is adorned with beautiful roses and houses the tomb of the renowned poet.

Its Semahane contains a museum of historical religious objects. Visit the Alaeddin Tepe park in the evening for a stroll and a cup of Turkish tea. Other fine arts are represented in Konya by the Tile Museum and the Museum of Wooden and Stone Carving, ensuring that all art lovers have a great time!

The rolling hills of the Cukurova area, immortalized in Yaşar Kemal’s classic novel Memed, My Hawk, surround Adana, Turkey’s sixth largest city, which sits alongside the Seyhan River.

It’s best known for making Turkey’s Adana kebab, and foodies will almost certainly make a point of trying it in one of the city’s restaurants when they visit. On the other side, this city has a lot more to offer tourists.

The hinterland of Adana is riddled with archaeological sites and historic tourist attractions, making it one of the best places to visit. It’s also a good place to start because you can travel to Turkey’s eastern Mediterranean region from here.

8. Gaziantep

Foodies are familiar with Turkey’s Baklava Center. Gaziantep’s sweet treats are well-known around the world. There’s a lot to see and do apart from the sugar rush, though.

The Zeugma Mosaic Museum in Gaziantep is a renowned tourist destination. The museum houses one of the world’s most significant collections of Roman period mosaic floor art, which was all rescued from the nearby Belkis-Zeugma archaeological site before it was flooded by the Birecik Dam’s waters.

Wandering through Gaziantep’s old town is one of the city’s true pleasures. Its numerous baklava shops and compact bazaar alleys are densely packed with traditional craftwork stores and historic coffee houses that could easily occupy an entire day.

Mardin’s narrative reads like a “who’s who” of conquest. Assyrians, Arabs, Seljuk dynasties, Kurdish, Persian, Mongols, and Ottomans have all battled for control of the town.

Today, a maze of labyrinthine alleyways runs under a cliff ridge, offering plenty of old-world atmosphere and events.

Thanks to its abundance of ancient buildings, some of which have been converted into luxury hotels, Mardin’s timeless allure is attracting a new wave of visitors who want to soak up the cultural heritage.

Kars, in the east of Turkey, is known as the “Winter Wonderland” because of its high altitude and harsh weather conditions. This city  has snow for the majority of the year. As a result, Kars is home to Sarikamis, a fantastic ski resort nestled in the Allahuekber Mountain Range’s foothills.

Another feature of Kars worth noting is the city’s Armenian presence. Even today, a sizable proportion of the population has Armenian ancestors.

The ruins of the ancient Armenian city of Ani, which dates back to medieval times, is the most prominent landmark here. Aside from the beautiful churches that still stand tall and proud, the scenery in Ani is also breathtaking.

To summarize, Turkey is a nation that is rich in contrast and diversity. Each of the cities on this list is distinct in its own way; whether it’s natural beauty or historical significance, each city has a story to tell.

And one thing is certain: getting out of the tourist traps of Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir is the perfect way to make your journey to Turkey truly unforgettable.

Reading Tip: 25 photos that will trigger your wanderlust for Turkey

About the Author

Hello everyone! I am Doruk Karadag, a full-time student in Ankara, Turkey, and also a travel blogger at toptiertraveler.com .

I have always had a passion for traveling and I hope you enjoy reading my posts. To find out more about me and my blog, you can check out my socials: Facebook , Twitter and Pinterest .

2 thoughts on “10 Best Non-Touristy Cities to Visit in Turkey”

Onece often I have visited Turkey. Really turkey is most beautiful country in the world. If setuation become normal I will visit tukey again insaallah. Thanks for informatin about these tourist place.

Thank you! And hopefully, you get to visit Turkey again soon!

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Luxury Istanbul: Premier Weddings in Turkey

Last Updated on May 31, 2024

Imagine saying "I do" surrounded by the captivating beauty of Turkey, a destination where timeless history and stunning landscapes create the perfect backdrop for your wedding day. Whether you envision a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, Turkey offers an array of breathtaking locations to make your special day unforgettable.

There's no better way to ensure your day goes smoothly than by engaging the help of professions. Luxury Istanbul offers premier wedding planning for couples from across the globe. Since its inception in 2009, Luxury Istanbul has established itself as the premier destination for weddings and exclusive events, leveraging over 25 years of combined experience in the travel and leisure industry to create truly unforgettable celebrations.

Premier Wedding Planning Services

At Luxury Istanbul, elegance and meticulous planning go hand in hand. Led by Ayşegül Kavaklı , one of Türkiye’s most sought-after wedding planners, our dedicated team is committed to bringing each couple’s unique vision to life. We understand that your wedding day should be as unique as your personal story.

Comprehensive Wedding Packages

We offer all-inclusive wedding packages that cater to a diverse range of needs, ensuring that every detail is covered:

• Venue Scouting and Contracting: We specialize in identifying and securing the perfect wedding venues, from idyllic beach settings to luxurious ballrooms, ensuring they align with your vision.
• Customized Planning: Our team excels in developing personalized themes and concepts, meticulously planning every detail from start to finish.
• Full-Service Coordination: We guarantee flawless execution on your wedding day, with comprehensive on-site management to oversee every aspect.
• Culinary Delights: Our custom menu planning and tasting sessions promise to delight your senses and those of your guests, making your wedding dinner a highlight of the celebration.
• Additional Luxuries: Our services extend to include accommodations, transportation, and bespoke entertainment options to enhance the guest experience.

Why Choose Turkey for Your Dream Wedding

Turkey is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich historical backdrop, and vibrant culture, making it an ideal destination for your wedding. Whether you envision a beach wedding along the stunning coastline of the Aegean Sea or a dream ceremony in the magical settings of Cappadocia , Turkey offers a mosaic of unforgettable locations. Learn more about weddings and honeymoons in Turkey.

Diverse Wedding Venues

Turkey's array of different wedding venues caters to any theme or preference. From the romantic beaches of the Mediterranean to the opulent palaces of Istanbul , you can find the perfect wedding venue to match your dream day. Luxury Istanbul’s expertise in venue scouting makes these idyllic settings accessible for your special day.

Cultural and Scenic Richness

The rich cultural heritage of Turkey adds a unique warmth and splendor to wedding celebrations. Imagine exchanging vows against the backdrop of ancient ruins or during a sunset on a pristine beach—Turkey weddings are as picturesque as they are memorable.

Exceptional Value

Turkey offers exceptional value for destination weddings, allowing you to enjoy a lavish celebration at a fraction of the cost compared to other popular wedding destinations. Luxury Istanbul leverages this advantage with all-inclusive wedding packages that cover everything from the wedding cake to the final dance, ensuring your budget is spent wisely without compromising on luxury.

Though Turkey is an amazing place to have a wedding, we recommend hiring a wedding planner who can help coordinate all of the details, allowing you to have an unforgettable celebration.

Luxury Istanbul's Dedication to Your Wedding

Luxury Istanbul specializes in planning destination weddings that cater to diverse tastes and traditions, all set in the breathtaking landscapes of Turkey. Our extensive local knowledge and strong partnerships with top-tier vendors across Turkey enable us to offer versatile wedding settings, from serene beachfronts to elegant urban locales.

We take pride in our ability to customize each wedding according to the couple's unique preferences, ensuring that each wedding in Turkey meets the couple's expectations. We understand that ceremony and celebrations can vary widely to match their vision. Whether it's a civil ceremony, a religious ceremony, or a non-traditional celebration, we tailor every detail to meet the specific needs of each couple. We offer destination wedding planning for international couples planning to wed in Turkey as well as for Turkish couples planning weddings abroad. No matter your wedding destination, we can help plan your special day.

Our commitment to excellence in wedding services is highlighted by our meticulous attention to detail. We manage every aspect of the wedding planning process, from the earliest planning stages to the final moments of the celebration, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience. This dedication allows us to create not just a wedding, but an unforgettable experience in Turkey's stunning venues.

Clientele and Scope of Services

Luxury Istanbul's portfolio extends beyond wedding planning. While specializing in creating dream weddings, we also excel in organizing corporate events and private luxury tours. Our versatile services cater to a diverse clientele, including local celebrities and international guests from Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. We have organized a variety of events that respect and incorporate a wide range of cultural traditions, showcasing our adaptability and dedication to personalized service.

Wide-Ranging Expertise

From intimate beach weddings to grand international weddings, Luxury Istanbul is equipped to manage every aspect, ensuring each celebration is seamless and stress-free. We handle everything from legal paperwork for international couples to arranging religious or civil ceremonies according to personal preferences.

Other Services

While weddings are at the heart of what we do, Luxury Istanbul's capabilities extend into orchestrating sophisticated corporate events and bespoke private tours. Our experience with high-profile clients, including global corporations and diplomats, demonstrates our capability to handle events of any scale with precision and elegance.

Entrust Your Special Day to Luxury Istanbul

At Luxury Istanbul, your wedding is more than just an event; it is the beginning of a lifetime of cherished memories. We invite you to entrust us with your dreams, and in return, we promise to deliver an experience that surpasses every expectation. From the idyllic setting of your ceremony to the meticulous planning and execution of every detail, we are committed to making your special day perfect.

Fill out the form to learn more about how we can help you plan your wedding or other events in Turkey.

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Passing Thru Travel

Top 10 Megacities Worth Visiting in 2024

Posted: March 22, 2024 | Last updated: March 22, 2024

Megacities, the colossal metropolises that house millions of souls, showcase human ingenuity and resilience. These urban behemoths are centers of economic and political power and cultural cauldrons where tradition meets modernity. Exploring these cities can be a daunting yet exhilarating experience. This guide aims to navigate you through the labyrinth of the world’s largest cities, uncovering their hidden gems and iconic landmarks.

1. Tokyo, Japan

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Fotos593

Tokyo presents a fascinating juxtaposition of cutting-edge technology and timeless tradition, making it a unique destination for any traveler. As you wander through the bustling streets of Shibuya or the serene gardens of the Imperial Palace, you’ll find that Tokyo’s charm lies in its contrasts. The city’s culinary landscape is equally diverse, offering everything from sushi prepared by world-renowned chefs to comforting bowls of ramen at a local stand.

Cultural aficionados will appreciate the city’s dedication to the arts, with numerous museums and galleries showcasing traditional Japanese art and contemporary works. Visiting the historic Asakusa district, with its ancient Senso-ji temple and traditional market streets, is a must to glimpse Tokyo’s heart. Tokyo’s efficient public transportation system makes navigating this vast city surprisingly manageable, allowing you to explore its many facets easily.

Insider’s Tip: For an authentic and less crowded experience, visit the Tsukiji Outer Market early in the morning to enjoy fresh sushi and explore the myriad of stalls selling everything from seafood to handmade kitchen knives.

When to Travel: Spring (March to May) for cherry blossom season or autumn (September to November) for the colorful foliage.

How to Get There: Fly into Tokyo Narita or Haneda airports. The city’s extensive public transportation network makes getting around both convenient and efficient.

2. Delhi, India

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Don Mammoser

Delhi, the sprawling capital of India, is a city steeped in history, with monuments that tell tales of its rich past. The majestic Red Fort, with its stunning Mughal architecture, and the serene Lotus Temple, a feat of modern design, stand as testaments to the city’s diverse cultural heritage. Delhi’s streets buzz with energy, offering a sensory feast of colors, sounds, and smells.

The city’s culinary scene reflects its multicultural makeup, with delectable dishes ranging from spicy street food to sophisticated North Indian cuisine. For shoppers, Delhi offers an array of options, from the bustling bazaars of Chandni Chowk, where bargaining is an art, to the upscale boutiques in Hauz Khas Village.

Amidst the chaos, the city’s green spaces, like the expansive Lodhi Gardens, provide a tranquil retreat. Exploring Delhi is an immersive experience that offers an exploration into the heart of India.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the spice market in Old Delhi to experience the true essence of Indian spices. Be prepared for a sensory overload.

When to Travel: The best time to visit is between October and March when the weather is cooler.

How to Get There: Indira Gandhi International Airport serves as the main gateway. Delhi’s metro system provides an efficient way to navigate the city.

3. São Paulo, Brazil

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Celso Diniz

São Paulo, the financial powerhouse of Brazil, is a city that pulsates with a vibrant cultural life. It boasts an impressive array of museums, such as the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP), known for its remarkable collection of European and Brazilian works. The city’s culinary scene is a gastronomic adventure, reflecting the diversity of its population with a wide range of international and Brazilian cuisines.

São Paulo’s nightlife is equally dynamic, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues catering to all tastes. The city’s architecture combines the old and the new, with modern skyscrapers alongside historic buildings.

For a taste of São Paulo’s bohemian side, visiting the neighborhood of Vila Madalena is essential, with its street art, eclectic shops, and cozy cafes. São Paulo’s sheer size can be overwhelming, but its cultural richness and the warmth of its people make it an unforgettable destination.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the Vila Madalena neighborhood for its vibrant street art and bustling nightlife.

When to Travel: May to September offers cooler temperatures and less rain.

How to Get There: São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport is the main entry point. The city’s metro and bus lines cover extensive areas.

4. Shanghai, China

Image Credit: Pexels / Wolfram K

Shanghai, China’s futuristic metropolis, is a city that never seems to sleep. The iconic Bund waterfront contrasts the colonial-era buildings and the modern skyscrapers across the Huangpu River. Shanghai’s status as a global financial hub is evident in its towering skyline, yet the city’s traditional Chinese gardens, such as the tranquil Yu Garden, provide a peaceful escape from the urban rush.

The Shanghai Museum offers a deep dive into China’s artistic heritage, while the city’s burgeoning contemporary art scene can be explored in the galleries of the M50 art district.

Culinary explorers will find Shanghai’s food scene exhilarating, ranging from sumptuous dumplings at a street stall to innovative cuisine at upscale restaurants. The city’s fast-paced lifestyle and rich cultural tapestry make Shanghai an exhilarating destination for the urban explorer.

Insider’s Tip: Take a walk along the Bund at dawn to see the city’s skyline in the soft morning light, away from the crowds.

When to Travel: Spring (March to May) and autumn (October and November) offer mild weather.

How to Get There: Shanghai Pudong International Airport is the main international gateway, with the city’s public transport network providing easy access to key attractions.

5. Lagos, Nigeria

Image Credit: Shutterstock / ba55ey

Lagos, the vibrant heart of Nigeria, is a city of stark contrasts and relentless energy. It is where traditional markets coexist with luxury shopping malls and serene beaches border bustling urban neighborhoods. The city’s music scene is a powerful expression of Nigerian culture, with Afrobeats echoing through the lively nightclubs and beachfront bars.

Lagos is also a center for Nollywood, Nigeria’s booming film industry, which has gained international acclaim. The city’s art scene is vibrant, with spaces like the Nike Art Gallery showcasing the work of local artists.

For a taste of Lagos’ culinary diversity, a visit to one of the city’s many markets, such as the Lekki Market, offers an array of local and international flavors. Despite its challenges, Lagos captivates with its dynamic spirit, rich cultural landscape, and the resilience of its people.

Insider’s Tip: Experience the city’s nightlife in Ikeja, where live music venues offer an authentic taste of Nigerian music.

When to Travel: The dry season from November to March is the best time to visit.

How to Get There: Murtala Muhammed International Airport serves as Lagos’s main entry point. Taxis and ride-sharing services are the most convenient ways to get around.

6. New York City, USA

Image Credit: Shutterstock / pisaphotography

Often hailed as the “city that never sleeps,” New York City offers its visitors endless experiences. From the towering skyscrapers of Manhattan to the diverse neighborhoods of Brooklyn and Queens, each borough presents its own unique character. The city’s museums, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art, house some of the world’s most important art collections.

New York’s theater scene is unparalleled, with Broadway and off-Broadway shows catering to all tastes. Central Park, an urban oasis, provides a green retreat in the heart of the city.

New York’s food scene is as diverse as its population, offering everything from iconic street food to gourmet dining experiences. The city’s energy, its bustling streets, and the diversity of its cultural offerings make New York an unforgettable destination.

Insider’s Tip: For a unique view of the city, take the Staten Island Ferry for free and enjoy the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline.

When to Travel: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and a host of cultural events.

How to Get There: Three major airports serve NYC, with extensive subway, bus, and taxi services available for city navigation.

7. Mumbai, India

Image credit: Shutterstock / Aanimesh

Mumbai, the bustling metropolis on India’s west coast, is a city of dreams and stark contrasts. The heart of Bollywood, India’s film industry, influences the city’s vibrant cultural scene. Mumbai’s architectural heritage, from the iconic Gateway of India to the historic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, reflects its colonial past and the aspirations of its people.

The city’s culinary landscape offers a tantalizing array of street food, seafood, and traditional Maharashtrian cuisine. Mumbai’s markets, such as Crawford Market and Colaba Causeway, are a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from spices to fashion.

The city’s coastline, with its beautiful beaches, provides a respite from the urban chaos. Mumbai’s spirit is indomitable, characterized by its bustling streets, the warmth of its people, and the diversity of its cultures.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the early morning fish auction at Sassoon Dock to glimpse the city’s bustling maritime trade.

When to Travel: November to February offers cooler temperatures and less humidity.

How to Get There: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport is the main gateway. Mumbai’s local train network is extensive but crowded; taxis and auto-rickshaws are also popular modes of transport.

8. Mexico City, Mexico

Image Credit: Pexels / Ivon Gorgonio

Mexico City, one of the oldest cities in the Americas, is a vibrant metropolis that boasts an impressive array of historical sites, museums, and culinary experiences. The city’s heart, the Zócalo, is surrounded by landmarks such as the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace. Mexico City’s cuisine, from street tacos to gourmet restaurants, is a highlight of any visit.

The city’s rich history is palpable in its neighborhoods, from the ancient canals of Xochimilco to the bohemian streets of Coyoacán. The Frida Kahlo Museum, located in her former home, offers insight into the life of one of Mexico’s most iconic artists. Mexico City’s parks, like Chapultepec, provide green spaces for relaxation and recreation. The city’s vibrant energy, rich cultural heritage, and culinary delights make it a captivating destination for travelers.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the city’s markets, like La Merced or San Juan, for an authentic taste of Mexican food and culture.

When to Travel: The dry season from November to April is ideal for visiting.

How to Get There: Mexico City International Airport is the main entry point. The metro system is an efficient way to explore the city’s attractions.

9. Jakarta, Indonesia

Image caption: Shutterstock / amadeustx

Jakarta, Indonesia’s sprawling capital, is a dynamic city with a rich cultural history. The city’s history is reflected in its monuments, museums, and colonial architecture. Jakarta is also known for its vibrant street food scene, offering a taste of Indonesia’s diverse culinary traditions. The National Monument (Monas) provides a panoramic view of the city, while the historic port of Sunda Kelapa offers a glimpse into Jakarta’s maritime heritage.

The city’s shopping districts, from the luxurious malls of Central Jakarta to the bustling markets of Glodok, cater to every taste and budget. Jakarta’s art scene is thriving, with contemporary galleries and cultural festivals showcasing the work of local and international artists. Despite its challenges, Jakarta’s energy and diversity make it an intriguing destination for those looking to explore the complexities of urban Indonesia.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the old town of Kota Tua to experience Jakarta’s historical charm and enjoy a bike ride around its Dutch colonial buildings.

When to Travel: The dry season from June to September is the best time to visit.

How to Get There: Soekarno-Hatta International Airport serves as Jakarta’s main airport. The city’s traffic can be challenging, so plan your travel times accordingly.

10. Istanbul, Turkey

Image credit: Shutterstock / aslan ozcan

Istanbul, a city that straddles two continents, offers a unique blend of European and Asian cultures. Its rich history is visible in landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. Istanbul’s bazaars, including the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar, offer a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells.

The city’s culinary scene reflects its diverse heritage, with dishes ranging from savory kebabs to sweet baklava. A cruise on the Bosphorus provides stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline and a unique perspective on the city’s geographical and cultural divide. Istanbul’s vibrant street life, historic neighborhoods, and the warmth of its people make it a fascinating destination for travelers seeking to experience the confluence of East and West.

Insider’s Tip: Take a ferry ride on the Bosphorus for breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and a unique perspective on Istanbul’s geographical and cultural divide.

When to Travel: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.

How to Get There: Istanbul Airport is the main international gateway. The city’s public transport system provides comprehensive coverage, including metros, trams, and ferries.

The Bottom Line

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Carles Iturbe

Exploring the world’s megacities is an adventure that unveils the heart and soul of our global civilization. Each city, with its unique blend of history, culture, and innovation, offers a window into the lives of its inhabitants. As you navigate these urban landscapes, take the time to delve beneath the surface, for it is there that you’ll discover the true essence of each metropolis. Embrace the chaos, seek out the serene, and let the world’s largest cities reveal their secrets to you.

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The post Top 10 Megacities Worth Visiting in 2024 republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Ryan DeBerardinis.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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Israel-Gaza latest: Hamas responds to ceasefire proposal - as Netanyahu casts doubt on deal

Joe Biden announced a surprise plan with three phases: the first would be a six-week ceasefire, the second the return of remaining hostages, and the third a reconstruction plan for Gaza. We'll be bringing you all the reaction to this throughout the day.

Sunday 2 June 2024 07:16, UK

• Israel-Hamas war

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• US President Joe Biden announces new ceasefire and hostage deal proposal
• Hamas views latest proposed deal 'positively'
• Israel's conditions for ending the war have not changed, Netanyahu's office says
• Chances of ceasefire 'not that realistic', expert says  
• Egypt making 'intensive efforts' to resume negotiations - report
• Israeli opposition leader urges Netanyahu to take deal - and says he will prop up government
• Explained: What is in Biden's three-phase plan?
• Analysis: Israel seemed blindsided by Biden announcement
• Live reporting by Emily Mee

We will be focusing on our general election coverage tomorrow, but we'll be back with more live updates on the Israel-Hamas war next week. 

Models Bella and Gigi Hadid are collectively donating one million dollars (£785,000) to support relief efforts, according to their agent. 

The money will go to Heal Palestine, Palestine Children's Relief Fund (PCRF), World Central Kitchen (WCK), and United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).

The sisters have frequently been vocal in their support for Gaza, and their father Mohamed Anwar Hadid is himself Palestinian. 

After Hamas's 7 October attack on Israel, Gigi, 29, offered her condolences to those affected.

"My thoughts are with all those affected by this unjustifiable tragedy, and every day that innocent lives are taken by this conflict - too many of which are children," she wrote on Instagram.

"I have deep empathy and heartbreak for the Palestinian struggle and life under occupation, it's a responsibility I hold daily."

She added: "While I have hopes and dreams for Palestinians, none of them include the harm of a Jewish person."

Bella, 27, said in May that she was "devastated at the loss of the Palestinian people and the lack of empathy coming from the government systems worldwide".

The United Nations food agency has said it is unable to feed most civilians in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. 

Only 27,000 people in Rafah are currently being reached by the World Food Programme (WFP), according to its local director Matthew Hollingworth. 

Roughly one million Palestinians are living in the area, many of them displaced from other parts of Gaza. 

"The sounds, the smells, the everyday life are horrific and apocalyptic," Mr Hollingworth told journalists. 

"People sleep to the sounds of bombing, they sleep to the sounds of drones, they sleep to the sounds of war, as now tanks roll into parts of central Rafah, which is only kilometers away. And they wake to the same sounds." 

A ceasefire proposal consisting of three phases has been outlined by Joe Biden. 

What do those phases entail, what have Israel and Hamas said about the plan and how does it compare to the last proposal?

Read more below...

The French president has backed the ceasefire proposal set out by Joe Biden last night. 

Emmanuel Macron said he supported the proposal for "a durable peace" and that the war "must end". 

France is also working with partners in the region on "peace and security for all", he said. 

A high-level official has said Egypt is undertaking "intensive efforts" to "resume negotiations" for a ceasefire and hostage deal, according to a report. 

The official, quoted by Al-Qahera TV, said this was "in light of the recent American proposition". 

Last night, Joe Biden detailed a ceasefire and hostage deal proposal that he said Israel had put to Hamas. 

However, Israeli officials have told our correspondents they were "blindsided" by the announcement. 

If it works, then this will be a smart and cunning diplomatic move.

If it doesn't then President Joe Biden will look foolish.

He knows the huge risk of once again being taken for a ride by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Few knew that he was due to make this announcement.

Read more from our US correspondent Mark Stone below...

The Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) has said 33 of its employees have been killed in Gaza since the war began. 

Of those, it said 19 were killed "while performing their humanitarian duties". 

The organisation today buried Mohammed Jihad Abed, an employee in the disaster risk management department. 

He was killed in an Israeli attack on his home in Rafah last night. 

American, Egyptian and Israeli officials will be meeting tomorrow in Cairo to discuss the reopening of Gaza's Rafah crossing, according to a report. 

Egypt is insisting that Israel withdraw its forces from the crossing, a high-level source told Egypt's state-linked Al Qahera TV. 

Israel seized the Gaza side of the crossing last month during its offensive in the city of Rafah. 

Earlier this week, a member of Egypt's security forces was killed in a shooting incident near the Rafah crossing.

An Egyptian soldier stationed on a watchtower had reacted to seeing an armoured vehicle carrying Israeli troops cross a boundary line near the border while the soldiers pursued and killed several Palestinians, two Egyptian security sources told Reuters news agency. 

The soldier opened fire and Israeli forces fired back, killing him, the sources said, sparking an exchange of gunfire between the two sides. 

The British prime minister has praised the proposed ceasefire deal set out by Joe Biden, saying it is "welcome news". 

Rishi Sunak said he hopes Hamas "takes this opportunity to take this deal that is on the table, [and] that would ensure hostages can be released and be back with their families". 

He also expressed hopes to "flood Gaza with far more aid than has been getting in" and to "use that pause in the fighting to build a sustainable and lasting peace". 

Mr Sunak joins a growing group of world leaders expressing support for the deal, which will only put more pressure on Israel and Hamas. 

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