Captivated by the idea of visiting Greece? Think again. Türkiye might just offer everything you’ve imagined Greece would be, but with more variety, fewer tourists, and a richer sense of adventure. Here’s why Türkiye should be at the top of your travel list.👇
Why Türkiye is a Better Alternative to Greece For a Vacation
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Relax in true Turkish style: Blue cruises and hammams
Türkiye offers incredible ways to unwind that go beyond lounging on the beach. Consider a 'blue cruise' along the Turquoise Coast which is a scenic, four-day boat trip starting from Fethiye. Sail along crystal-clear waters and visit secluded coves, swim, snorkel, and explore coastal towns. The views are jaw-dropping, especially around Ölüdeniz, often ranked among the world's top beaches. Whether you want to sunbathe or soar above the coast in a paraglider, Türkiye's southern shore has it all.
No trip to Türkiye is complete without experiencing a Turkish hammam.
In this centuries-old bathing ritual, you'll sweat out your stress in a steam room before being scrubbed and massaged with olive oil soap. The entire process leaves you refreshed, cleansed, and glowing to the point where you might even be unrecognizable, scrubbed to a soft pink by the end. Many hammams cater to different groups at different times, so ask your hotel for recommendations to get an authentic experience.
Shop Where East Meets West
Türkiye is a shopper’s paradise, with bazaars and markets full of history and charm. As the crossroads of ancient trade routes, you’ll find treasures ranging from spices to handcrafted textiles, and almost-antiques. Don’t leave without picking up a nazar boncuğu, a blue and white amulet for protection against the 'evil eye,' a symbol you’ll spot everywhere in Türkiye.
Türkiye is a land of marvels that defy belief.
In Cappadocia, you’ll find underground cities that early Christians carved into the soft volcanic rock to hide from invaders. These cities go down multiple levels, with tunnels leading to kitchens, living areas, and even chapels. Meanwhile, above ground, the surreal fairy chimneys, towering, naturally-formed rock spires, give the landscape a magical feel. You can even sleep in a cave hotel or take a hot air balloon ride over the region’s otherworldly terrain.
Another must-see is Pamukkale, meaning "Cotton Castle."
Here, natural thermal waters have formed brilliant white terraces that cascade down the hillside, creating pools of mineral-rich water perfect for a relaxing soak. You can walk barefoot through the pools and take in the unique beauty of the landscape. Nearby are the ruins of Hierapolis, where you can wander among ancient Roman baths and a remarkably well-preserved stadium, often with no one else around.
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Olympos.
This laid-back area is famous for its treehouse accommodations and its unique attraction: the Chimera flames. These mysterious natural flames flicker from the mountainside, seemingly defying explanation. Hiking up to see them at night is a magical experience, and the nearby beach and ruins offer plenty to explore during the day.
One thing that makes Türkiye stand out is its people. Turkish hospitality is legendary, and you’ll find locals eager to share their culture and make your visit special.
Don’t be surprised if you’re offered a gift after a meal or invited into someone’s home for tea. Many travelers find themselves showered with kindness, from free desserts at restaurants to personalized souvenirs from shopkeepers.
But, as with any tourist destination, a few scams exist. Be cautious in touristy areas like the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, where overcharging is common. Some taxi drivers may inflate fares from the airport, so it’s worth getting advice from your hotel or using a ride service. And while most tea invitations are genuine, a rare few may come with an unexpected bill at the end.
You can find all the charm of Greece and more
Türkiye offers everything you’ve dreamed of in Greece, pristine beaches, stunning ancient ruins, and incredible food. All of this but with fewer tourists, friendlier locals, and even more to explore. Whether it’s sailing on a Blue Cruise, soaking in a hammam, or marveling at ancient wonders, Türkiye has something magical for every traveler. The only thing you won’t find? Pork. But with all the other delicious dishes on offer, you won’t miss it!