Turkey is one of the most fascinating countries in the world with its historical richness, unique geography and cultural diversity due to its location at the crossroads of three continents. In this article, we will examine in detail 10 interesting destinations that must be seen in Turkey. A comprehensive guide to places of interest in Turkey awaits you, featuring historical information, cultural insights, transportation options to these locations, regional activities, and nearby places to visit. So, what are the top places of interest in Turkey? Let's explore together 👇
Visit the Top 10 Places of Interest in Turkey
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1. Istanbul - A Unique Beginning at the Crossroads of Civilisations
Istanbul is a cultural mosaic that has been the capital of the Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman Empires throughout history. Situated on both sides of the Bosphorus, the city unites Europe and Asia not only geographically but also culturally. It is one of the most visited places of interest in Turkey.
Historical and Cultural Riches:
Historical buildings such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace stand out with their architectural splendour and historical importance. While experiencing the centuries-old trade culture in the Grand Bazaar, you can watch the city 360 degrees from the Galata Tower.
Modern Istanbul:
While neighbourhoods such as Istiklal Street, Karakoy and Kadikoy are the centre of attraction for the young generation with their modern cafes and art galleries, a boat trip on the Bosphorus allows you to discover the romantic side of Istanbul.
Transport:
Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gökçen Airport provide both domestic and international connections to the city. Metro, Marmaray, ferry and tram lines are highly developed in urban transport.
What to do in Istanbul?
Visit the many historical locations dating back to the Ottoman & Byzantine Empires
Visit the Famous Princes' Islands
Explore the Old & New city to experience both sides of Istanbul
Istanbul is home to many museums and historical palaces.
2. Cappadocia - Fairy Chimneys, Balloons and Underground Cities
The Cappadocia region, which covers Nevşehir and its surroundings, is one of the most unique tourist destinations in the world with its unique geological formations, traces of the early Christian period and fairy-tale atmosphere.
Why Visit?
Rising to the sky at sunrise with hot air balloons in Cappadocia is almost like a dream. The region also fascinates both nature and history lovers with its monasteries, chapels and museums carved into the rocks.
Highlights
Goreme Open Air Museum
Uchisar Castle
Derinkuyu and Kaymakli underground cities
Pasabag and Zelve Valley
Activities:
- ATV and jeep safari, valley walks (Rose Valley, Ihlara Valley), local wine tastings.
Transport:
- There are direct flights to Nevsehir and Kayseri Airports. Shuttle or car hire is preferred for transportation to the region.
Nearby Excursions:
- Pottery making workshops in Avanos, stone architecture tour in Mustafapasa.
3. Ephesus Ancient City - One of the Greatest Cities of Antiquity
Ephesus, located in the Selçuk district of Izmir, is one of the best preserved ancient cities in world history. This city, which was home to 250,000 people during the Roman period, is an open-air museum.
Historical Importance:
It is home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the world. In addition, the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre and the Temple of Hadrian must be seen.
Culture and Tourism:
There are boutique hotels, local handicraft markets and museums intertwined with the historical atmosphere in the region. Selçuk Museum is another centre of attraction where the artefacts found in Ephesus are exhibited.
Transport:
Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport can be reached by train or bus. Guided tours are recommended at the entrance of Ephesus.
What's nearby?
Sirince Village: Famous for wine tasting and stone houses
The House of the Virgin Mary: An important place for pilgrimage
4. Pamukkale - The Magic of Travertines and Thermal Health
Pamukkale, located in Denizli, is unique in both natural and archaeological terms with its white travertine terraces and the ancient city of Hierapolis. This area, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, also takes the lead in Turkey's health tourism.
Thermal Healing:
The hot springs in Pamukkale vary between 35-100 °C and are known to be good for various ailments, from skin diseases to rheumatism.
Ancient City of Hierapolis:
It offers a rich history with its theatre, agora, baths and necropolis area. It is also a unique experience to swim in Cleopatra Pool.
Transport:
- Denizli Çardak Airport is a 1-hour journey after landing. Alternatively, buses are available from the city centre.
Activities:
- Walking barefoot in travertines, swimming in thermal pools, and paragliding.
5. Mount Nemrut - The Summit Full of God Statues and Legends
Mount Nemrut, one of the most iconic symbols of Eastern Anatolia, is located in the Kahta district of Adıyaman and fascinates its visitors with its mysterious giant god statues on its summit, reaching an altitude of 2,150 metres. This ancient complex, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, was built by Antiochos Theos I, the ruler of the Commagene Kingdom in the 1st century BC.
Historical Importance and Legendary Structures:
This tumulus structure, where Antiochos was placed on the same level as the gods, is a synthesis of Greek and Persian cultures. The statues of Zeus, Apollo, Heracles, and Antiochos on the east and west terraces are placed facing east and west - this is associated with sunrise and sunset rituals. Although the heads of the statues have been separated from their bodies over time, the mystical atmosphere is still alive.
Visit Info:
Best time: June to September, early morning or at sunset.
Getting there: After reaching Kahta from Adıyaman Airport, you can take a minibus or private tour to Nemrut. The last section to the summit requires walking.
Tips: The weather can be chilly; warm clothes, a torch and comfortable shoes are recommended.
Nearby Attractions:
- Karakus Tumulus, Cendere Bridge, Arsemia Ancient City, Kahta Castle.
6. Gobeklitepe - The Point Where Human History Was Rewritten
Gobeklitepe, located about 20 kilometres from the Şanlıurfa city centre, is a discovery that changed the archaeological history of not only Turkey but also the whole world. This site, which was uncovered by excavations started in the 1990s, is considered to be the oldest known temple in the world with a history of approximately 12,000 years.
Scientific and Historical Value:
Gobeklitepe was groundbreaking in terms of showing that people established a belief system and settled down with religious motivation at a time when agriculture had not yet emerged. The animal motifs on the giant T-shaped stone columns reflect the symbolic world of hunter-gatherer societies. There are also opinions that these structures were built with astronomical alignments.
Visiting Experience:
Modern Museum Area: Protected by a glass terrace, the excavation site offers a modern and educational environment with information boards, AR applications and a visitor centre.
Transport: Approximately 30 minutes by car from Şanlıurfa GAP Airport. There are also regular tours from the city centre.
Entrance Info: Museum card is valid; guided tours are recommended during the summer season.
Places to See Around:
- Baliklıgol, Urfa Castle, Harran Kumbet Houses, Sanliurfa Archaeological Museum.
7. Sumela Monastery - A Mystical Building on the Black Sea Cliffs
Sumela Monastery in the Maçka district of Trabzon is a unique Orthodox monastery complex situated on a steep mountainside at an altitude of 1,200 metres. Built in the 4th century AD, it is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and has been a retreat for Christian monks for centuries.
Architectural Features and Historical Richness:
The monastery complex includes a church, a library, monks' rooms and a holy ayasma. Especially the Byzantine frescoes decorating the walls of the main church are of great importance in terms of art history in terms of depicting religious scenes and saints. The monastery has managed to survive over the years despite the harsh natural conditions.
How to get there?
Transportation from Trabzon Centre: Approximately 1 hour away. You can leave your car in the car park and walk up the path.
New infrastructure: The restored monastery has been made more comfortable with glass terraced walkways that are not affected by rain.
Entrance: Museum card is valid; early hours should be preferred in summer months.
Nearby Nature Activities:
- Hiking in Altindere Valley National Park, plateau trips (Hamsikoy, Zigana Plateau), and experiencing local Black Sea cuisine.
8. Safranbolu - The City Where Time Stops with Ottoman Architecture
Safranbolu in Karabük province is one of the best preserved Ottoman settlements in Turkey. It looks like an open-air museum with its wooden mansions, historical bazaars and stone streets. In 1994, it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Architectural and Cultural Texture:
The 17th and 18th century houses clearly show the classical Ottoman residential architecture: bay windows, stone foundations, wooden walls and large courtyards. Cinci Han, Cinci Hammam, Köprülü Mehmet Pasha Mosque and Yemenic Arastasi are the main historical buildings to visit.
Gastronomy and Handicrafts:
Turkish delights produced from saffron flowers, stuffed leaves with meat and homemade jams are unique to the city. Coppersmithing and wood carving are among the handicrafts that are still alive.
Transport:
Approximately 3 hours by road from Ankara, 5 hours from Istanbul. It is easily reached by minibus services connected to Karabük railway station.
What's nearby?
Tokatli Canyon and Crystal Terrace
Yoruk Village Traditional village life experience
Incekaya Aqueduct
9. Fethiye & Oludeniz - Turquoise Face of the Mediterranean and Lycian Civilisation
Fethiye is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Muğla. Especially Ölüdeniz Lagoon has become one of the most photographed natural areas in Turkey with its blue-green tones and calm sea. It is also the starting point of the Lycian Way.
Beaches and Nature:
Oludeniz is perfect for swimming, canoeing and paddle boarding with its waveless water and natural lagoon. Paragliding from Babadağ is considered one of the most beautiful jump routes in the world. The Butterfly Valley, accessible only by boat or a steep path, offers a unique area for nature lovers.
Historical Richness:
Telmessos Ancient City: Remains of the city's ancient past
Ancient cities such as Tlos, Xanthos, and Letoon are 30-60 minutes away by car.
Transport:
- Fethiye is reached by a 45-60 minute drive from Dalaman Airport. A minibus network is developed in the city.
Activities
Paragliding (Babadag)
Boat tour (12 Island Tour)
Hiking and water sports in Saklikent Canyon
Mud bath in Dalyan
10. Bodrum - The Aegean Pearl at the Intersection of History and Entertainment
Bodrum is the symbol of summer holidays, nightlife and Aegean culture. However, it attracts attention not only with its beach clubs but also with its historical texture and cultural diversity. Built on ancient Halicarnassos, the city was the hometown of Herodotus and home to the Mausoleum of Mausolus.
Historical Riches:
Bodrum Castle, built in the 15th century, is now home to the Museum of Underwater Archaeology.
The ruins of the Ancient Theatre and Mausoleum trace the classical era.
Modern Bodrum:
- Bars Street, Yalikavak Marina and the luxury hotels and restaurants of Turkbuku represent modern tourism. Coastal villages such as Gumusluk offer a more bohemian and peaceful experience.
Getting there:
- A 45-minute shuttle from Milas-Bodrum Airport to the city centre. It is possible to reach every town on the Bodrum peninsula by minibuses.
Popular Activities:
Blue cruises and gulet tours
Diving and water sports
Visiting art galleries and local workshops
