Turkey's countryside is full of hidden gems, offering a unique and authentic travel experience for those willing to venture off the beaten path. From quaint villages to stunning natural landscapes, here are some of the best places to explore in Turkey's beautiful countryside.
Cappadocia is one of Turkey's most famous regions, known for its stunning rock formations and unique underground cities. While the area is popular with tourists, there are still plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had.
Visitors can take a hot air balloon ride over the surreal landscape, hike through the valleys, and explore the many hidden churches and monasteries. For a more authentic experience, stay in a traditional cave hotel or join a local family for a home-cooked meal.
Located in northern Turkey, Amasya is a picturesque town nestled in a narrow valley along the Yeşilırmak River. The town is known for its beautifully preserved Ottoman-era houses, many of which are now museums or guesthouses.
Visitors can explore the winding streets of the old town, take a boat ride on the river, and visit the many historic sites, including the ancient Pontic tombs carved into the cliffs above the town.
Safranbolu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Black Sea region of Turkey. The town is known for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture, including beautiful wooden houses and a historic bazaar.
Visitors can explore the narrow streets and alleyways of the old town, visit the many museums and historic sites, and enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine at the local restaurants.
Located in southeastern Turkey, Mount Nemrut is an ancient site that features a series of large statues and tombstones dating back to the 1st century BC. The site is located at an altitude of over 2,000 meters and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Visitors can hike to the summit of the mountain, explore the ancient ruins, and watch the sunrise or sunset over the statues. While the site can be crowded during peak season, it's possible to have a more off-the-beaten-path experience by visiting in the shoulder season or early morning.
Egirdir is a small town located on the shores of Lake Egirdir in southwestern Turkey. The town is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including the lake and surrounding mountains.
Visitors can hike or bike through the nearby mountains, swim or fish in the lake, and explore the old town, which features traditional Ottoman-era houses and a historic castle.
Bozcaada is a small island located in the Aegean Sea, off the coast of northwestern Turkey. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and traditional Greek-style houses.
Visitors can explore the island's many beaches, taste the local wine, and explore the old town, which features narrow streets and colorful houses. The island is also home to a medieval castle, which offers stunning views of the surrounding sea.
Assos is a small town located on the Aegean coast of Turkey, known for its ancient ruins and beautiful natural scenery. The town is home to the ruins of an ancient Greek city, including a large temple dedicated to Athena.
Visitors can explore the ruins, hike through the surrounding hills, and relax on the beautiful beaches along the coastline. The town itself features traditional Ottoman-era houses and a historic harbor, which is still used by local fishermen.