Summer in Turkey: 10 Unique Experiences for the Perfect Vacation

29.07.2025 - 16:08

If you have not yet made your summer holiday plans or if you are tired of the classic routes and want to pursue new discoveries, you should definitely take a look at the unique options that Turkey offers you. With its historical richness, natural beauties and cultural diversity, Turkey offers holiday opportunities for every taste. From stunning beaches to ancient cities, from clear blue skies to lush green valleys, discover 10 unique experiences that will make your summer unforgettable with this special list! So, what to do in Turkey during the summer? And why should you visit Turkey during the summer? Let's explore together!

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1. Embrace History and Nature at Cleopatra Beach (Gökova, Muğla)

Sedir Island is a natural wonder with its golden beaches and clear waters in the middle of Gökova Gulf. However, it is not only its beauty that makes this place special; it is also the historical texture of the place. As you walk among the ruins of the ancient city of Kedrai, you will feel that time has stopped. And then Cleopatra Beach... According to legends, these special sands were brought from North Africa especially for Cleopatra. Even now, you will find yourself in an ancient story when you step on these pearl-like sands, which are only found on this island. Swim in the azure waters and experience a coolness that goes back to ancient times.

2. Ascend by Balloon at Sunrise in Cappadocia (Nevşehir)

Cappadocia's fairy chimneys and extraordinary structures formed from lava tuffs offer a unique view in the world. To see this view most impressively, take a hot air balloon ascending to the sky in the early morning. With the breathtaking views of the Love Valley, Pigeon Valley and Uchisar Castle stretching as far as the eye can see, the sense of freedom you feel will be indescribable. After the balloon tour, explore the underground cities, rock-carved churches and stone hotels of Cappadocia and experience historical and natural beauties together.

3. Trace the Past in the Stones of Sagalassos (Burdur

) Take the cool winds of the Mediterranean behind you and set off towards the ruins of a civilisation hidden at the summit of the Taurus Mountains. Sagalassos continues to fascinate its visitors with its impressive structures from the Hellenistic period, the theatre and especially the magnificent Antonine Fountain. Flowing for more than 1,800 years, washing your face with the water flowing from this fountain is a great opportunity to establish a historical connection and refresh yourself in the heat of summer. Listen to the sound of the stones and feel the whispers of the past in this ancient city, which is on the UNESCO Temporary Heritage List.

4. Walk Barefoot on Travertines in Pamukkale (Denizli)

The snow-white terraces of Pamukkale are a miracle formed by the accumulation of mineral waters over time, which nature has worked like a work of art. While walking in the warm thermal waters, you feel as if you are moving on the clouds. The ancient city of Hierapolis, located right next to the travertines, offers a discovery full of history and healing with its Roman theatre, baths and ancient pool. Especially swimming in the Ancient Pool is a unique experience that will refresh both your soul and body.

5. Swim in History in the Blue of Kekova (Antalya)

Kekova, one of the most special corners of the Mediterranean, is fascinating not only for its natural beauties but also for its ancient ruins under the sea. Starting from the ancient city of Simena and extending to Kekova Island, this route is perfect for those who want to explore history both on land and under the sea. During your boat trips, you can watch the sunken city from glass-bottomed boats and observe the ancient stairs disappearing into the sea. Have you ever imagined that swimming in turquoise waters could be so mystical?

6. Discover an Underground City in Derinkuyu (Nevşehir)

The underground cities of Cappadocia reveal the engineering and survival skills of thousands of years ago. Derinkuyu Underground City is the largest of these underground settlements. Extending 85 metres below ground and consisting of 8 floors, this city has stables, kitchens, churches, cemeteries and ventilation systems. Even imagining that thousands of people once lived here for days to protect themselves from attacks is an adventure in itself. As you wander through this dark and mysterious city, you will journey into the depths of history.

7. Natural Solitude in Olympos (Antalya)

Olympos, which meets the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea at the foot of the Taurus Mountains, is one of the rare places where both nature, history and free-spirited holiday understanding are combined. While walking among the ruins of the ancient city, you can come across the nests of caretta carettas and cool off on the beach where the sea and the forest are intertwined. You can experience the camping spirit to the fullest by staying in tree houses and rediscovering the simple but fascinating aspects of life while watching the stars in the sky at night.

8. Step into the Legend in Troy (Çanakkale)

Get ready to open the pages of an epic from thousands of years ago! The ancient city of Troy, the subject of Homer's Iliad, is a place that fascinates mythology and archaeology enthusiasts. Walking on these lands where the legendary Trojan War took place is like going on a journey where history and literature are intertwined. At the end of your visit to the ancient city, don't forget to take a souvenir photo in front of the giant Trojan Horse replica. Perhaps this shot will become a part of your personal mythology.

9. Gaze at the Bosphorus and the Continents from Rumeli Fortress (Istanbul)

In Istanbul, you can see history at every step, but some places have become symbols of this history. Rumeli Fortress is one of the most impressive structures of the Bosphorus. This castle, built by Fatih Sultan Mehmet before the siege of Istanbul, stands out with both its strategic importance and its view. When you climb to the top, Europe on one side and Asia on the other greet you. Looking at two continents at the same time and watching the blue of the Bosphorus will tell you why this city is called ‘the capital of the world’.

10. Witness the History of Humanity at Göbeklitepe (Şanlıurfa)

Göbeklitepe, known as the historical zero point, is one of the oldest known settlements of humanity. Dating back 12,000 years, this megalithic temple area is a document of how hunter-gatherer societies transitioned to settled life. The symbols, animal figures and geometric patterns on the huge stone columns offer surprising clues about the worldview of that period. As you wander through these structures, which are 8,000 years older than the pyramids, you will feel the weight and magic of witnessing the beginning of history.