A small part of its territory lies in Europe, the larger part in western Asia. The European part borders Greece and Bulgaria. Its culture is very diverse, combining Eastern and Western traditions, due to its particular location and history.

Best places in Turkey

Istanbul

Turkey’s capital is situated on both banks of the Bosphorus, which separates Europe from Asia.

The city has a rich historical heritage, as it was once the capital of the Byzantine Empire under the name Constantinople, and later the capital of the Ottoman Empire. Its unique location, architectural monuments, and artistic creations found in its museums and palaces have made it a popular destination for tourists.

There are many world-famous attractions in the city. The most well-known is, of course, the Hagia Sophia, which is one of the significant works of ancient architecture. Additionally, the Topkapi Palace should be highlighted, which is not coincidentally among the most beautiful palaces in the world.

Istanbul attractions

Cappadocia

The wonderful region located in central Turkey is famous for its breathtaking geological formations and historical significance.

Its landscape was shaped by volcanic activity, resulting in unique cone-shaped rocks and cave dwellings characterizing the area.

Popular and unique attractions in the world include the numerous, oddly shaped „Fairy Chimneys”, the moonlike landscape of the Göreme valley, Göreme National Park, rock churches, the underground cities of Kaymakli and Derinkuyu, Zelve valley, Avanos (pottery), Uchisar rock fortress, Ihlara valley, and Soglani.

Hot air balloon rides are a must-have experience for visitors, featured in almost all photos.

Fethiye

The city located in the southwestern part of the country, on the Mediterranean coast, is surrounded by beautiful beaches.

The white sandy beach of nearby Ölüdeniz, the Blue Lagoon, is one of Turkey’s most iconic beaches. Its name means Dead Sea, referring to its calm waters that rarely have waves.

Fethiye’s historical attractions include the Lycian rock tombs dating back to the 4th century BC. The most impressive tomb is the Tomb of Amyntas, which towers over the city.

Amasya

The city in north-central Turkey is popular for its beautiful setting, historic Turkish wooden houses, and rich historical heritage.

Its most valuable sights are the old Ottoman-era mansions. One of the most elegant such buildings is the Hazeranlar House, built in 1872 by Defterdar Hasan Talat Efendi for his sister, Hazeran.

Another significant monument is the rock-cut tombs towering above the city, where the kings of Pontus were buried.

The city has given rulers, artists, and scientists to the world, and an important phase of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s life is also associated with it. This shows that Amasya is also an historically important settlement.

Izmir

Turkey’s third-largest city is also called the pearl of the Aegean Sea.

The ancient Roman agora, located in the historical center of the city, is an impressive archaeological site. Its main square is Konak Square, where the famous Clock Tower stands. Built in 1901, the tower is one of the symbols of the city. The most beautiful part of the city is the seaside promenade, Kordonboyu, where you can find many restaurants and bars along with a wonderful view.

It hosts popular and renowned festivals every year. The most famous is the İzmir International Festival, where many world-famous performers, orchestras, and dance ensembles perform. Another important event is the İzmir European Jazz Festival.

Mardin

It is a meeting point of several cultures and religions, reflected in its historical buildings and diverse population.

Its old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, creating a special atmosphere with its narrow, winding streets and closely packed sandstone houses. Most of the buildings bear the stylistic features of Ottoman and Syrian Orthodox architecture.

Among its religious buildings, the most important is the Deyrulzafaran Monastery. This ancient Syrian Orthodox structure was built in the 5th century and is considered one of the oldest monasteries in the Christian world.

Antalya

One of the country’s most popular tourist destinations and the center of the Turkish Riviera.

Antalya’s historical center, Kaleiçi, awaits visitors with narrow, cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era houses, and historical buildings. The old town contains numerous monuments, of which the most spectacular is Hadrian’s Gate. This impressive three-arched gate was built in 130 AD in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian.

Düden Waterfalls

Located near Antalya, it is one of the most impressive natural sights in the region. The Düden River forms two separate waterfalls, the so-called Upper Düden and Lower Düden Waterfalls.

At the Upper Düden Waterfall, water plunges from a cave, which you can walk behind, providing a unique experience. The park has walkways, picnic areas, and viewpoints.

The Lower Düden Waterfall is located right on the beach, where the Düden River plunges water from a steep cliff into the sea. The sight is particularly impressive as the water falls from more than 40 meters high.

Pamukkale

Literally meaning „cotton castle”, it is one of the world’s rare wonders and part of UNESCO World Heritage.

The snow-white limestone pools were created by hot spring water rich in calcium hydrogen carbonate and carbon dioxide, about 35°C, gushing from underground and flowing down the hillside. The place was visited as a spa even in ancient times.

There are several hot springs in the vicinity of Pamukkale, which are also used by newly built spas and hotels. Because of this, it has become one of the destinations of modern health tourism.

Ankara

The capital of Turkey since 1923, it is the second-largest city after Istanbul.

Ankara is not a traditional tourist destination in the conventional sense. Cultural tourism is significant, with museums standing out. The historical and archaeological museums here display numerous valuable, ancient Anatolian artifacts.

Its most famous attraction is the Anıtkabir, located on a hill in the Anittepe district. This is the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who was the founder, first president, and greatest reformer of the Turkish Republic. In the adjacent museum, you can find Atatürk’s memorabilia: his letters, personal items, photographs, and a wax figure of the president.

In the old part of the city, there are numerous historical monuments, such as ancient Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Turkish style buildings and narrow, winding streets. Among the notable sights are the Temple of Augustus and the Hacı Bayram Mosque.

Ankara attractions, weather

Kurşunlu Waterfall

Located near Antalya, it is part of Kurşunlu National Park.

The waterfall plunges from a height of 18 meters and continues into seven small lakes. It is surrounded by lush, green forest that is home to numerous plant and animal species.

Ephesus

An ancient Greek city on the Aegean coast, it is one of the most important and best-preserved archaeological sites in the world.

Founded in the 10th century BC, it was one of the largest and most important cities in Asia Minor during Roman times. It was famous for its Temple of Artemis, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Unfortunately, only a few columns remain today, but it was once a huge and impressive structure.

One of the most impressive buildings is the Library of Celsus. It originally contained 12,000 scrolls and conceals a sarcophagus where Celsus, the library’s namesake, rests.

The theater is the best-preserved building in Ephesus. It hosted not only theatrical performances but also public gatherings and community events. Its auditorium is 50 meters in diameter, carved into a hillside. It could accommodate 24,000 people.

Konya

The city is famous for its rich history, religious and cultural heritage, especially due to the traditions of Sufi mysticism and the Mevlevi dervishes.

The Mevlana Museum is Konya’s most famous attraction and one of the most visited places in Turkey. It houses the tomb of Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi, the famous Persian poet and Sufi mystic, and founder of the Mevlevi dervish order.

Enthusiasts of architecture and applied arts consider Konya a treasure trove of Seljuk art. The best example of this is the Alaeddin Hill in the city center, which is home to the Seljuk-era Alaeddin Mosque.

Mount Nemrut

Located in the southeastern part, it is one of the country’s most important and spectacular archaeological sites and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

The mountain was the most important sanctuary and burial site of the ancient Kingdom of Commagene. King Antiochus I built his own mausoleum and temples to ensure divine status for himself.

The statues on the mountaintop are monumental in size and depict King Antiochus I and various gods. These gods include Apollo, Zeus, Hercules, and Tyche.

The mountain is easily accessible from the city of Adıyaman, which can be reached by car or local tours.

Safranbolu

It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage and one of the best places in Turkey where visitors can gain insight into the everyday life and architectural style of the Ottoman era.

Most of the buildings in the old town date from the 18th and 19th centuries and were built in traditional Ottoman style, which includes a combination of wood and stone.

The city has more than a thousand traditional Ottoman houses, many of which now function as museums, guesthouses, or restaurants. These houses are known for their distinctive architectural style, characterized by prominent wooden balconies, ornate window frames, and tiled roofs.

It gets its name from saffron, which has been cultivated in the area for centuries. Saffron products, such as sweets and soaps, can be purchased in local markets and shops.

Trabzon

The city on the Black Sea coast was once an important trading center of the Byzantine Empire. It was also known as the capital of the Empire of Trebizond in the Middle Ages.

Its most famous attraction is the Ayasofya Museum, also known as Hagia Sophia. The 13th-century Byzantine church later functioned as a mosque and is now a museum. The church’s beautiful frescoes and mosaics are impressive examples of Byzantine art.

The Atatürk Köşkü is an elegant villa built for Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. The villa is located in a beautiful garden and now operates as a museum, showcasing Atatürk’s life and work.

Lake Van

Turkey’s largest lake is located in the Eastern Anatolia region. The salty, volcanic lake was formed during the eruption of Mount Nemrut volcano.

Lake Van has exceptionally clear, blue water, and the surrounding mountains offer a breathtaking view. Its area is about 3,755 square kilometers, and its deepest point is about 450 meters.

Akdamar Island is one of its most popular tourist attractions. The Armenian Church of the Holy Cross, built in the 10th century, is located on the island. The church is famous for its impressive stone carvings and frescoes depicting biblical scenes. The building is an outstanding example of Armenian architecture.

Aspendos

The ancient city located in Antalya province is famous for its impressively preserved Roman theater.

It is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman theaters in the world, built during the reign of Marcus Aurelius in the 2nd century. It can accommodate about 15,000 spectators and has excellent acoustics, still allowing for concerts and performances today.

Another significant structure is the aqueduct. This is a channel bridge built in the 2nd century to ensure water supply. It carried water from the mountains to the city of Aspendos for more than 15 kilometers, with the help of numerous bridges.

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Turkey’s most populous settlement, it is a cultural, artistic, and economic hub, and was the capital until 1923.

The city spans the Bosporus and the Sea of Marmara, and although only a smaller part of it is in Europe, it is still considered a European city. Its unique location, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman architectural relics, as well as the artistic works in its museums and palaces, have made it a favorite destination for tourists.

Istanbul attractions

Hagia Sophia

Istanbul’s most famous building and the top destination for every tourist.

Built in the 6th century by Emperor Constantine I, it was constructed in just five years. From 1453, after Constantinople fell to the Ottomans, until 1934 it served as a mosque, then as a museum until 2020, and since July 2020 it has functioned again as a mosque.

The building is massive: the main dome is 31 meters in diameter and 55.6 meters high, with a total floor area of 7570 m2.

Opening hours: April 15 – October 1, 9 AM-7 PM; October 1 – April 15, 9 AM-5 PM. Closed on Mondays!

Admission is free!

Blue Mosque

Originally named Sultan Ahmed Mosque, it is located opposite Hagia Sophia. Its name comes from the blue tiles covering the interior walls.

One notable difference from Hagia Sophia is its six minarets. Only two mosques in Turkey have this feature (the other is in Adana).

The mosque was built between 1609 and 1616 by order of Sultan Ahmed I. The complex includes the tomb of the Sultan and his wife, Kösem Sultan, a madrasah, and a hospital. The Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most popular attractions, one of the world’s most famous buildings, and part of the World Heritage.

Suleymaniye Mosque

Unsurprisingly, this mosque is also a must-see among Istanbul’s attractions! The city’s second-largest mosque, it was commissioned by Sultan Suleiman I.

The mosque measures 59×58 meters, with the main dome 53 meters high and 27.25 meters in diameter. In the garden, you can find the mausoleums of Suleiman I and his wife (Hürrem), and daughter (Mihrimah).

Galata Tower

Istanbul’s most famous lookout, originally built as a lighthouse in the 6th century.

The Romanesque building stands 66.9 meters tall with a diameter of 16.45 meters, and wall thickness of 3.75 meters. It also has a café on top, offering a 360-degree view of Istanbul.

Entrance fees and opening hours can be found here!

Dolmabahçe Palace

Located on the western, European side of the Bosporus, north of Beyoğlu.

It served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire from 1856 to 1923. Built by Sultan Abdul-Mecid I, it was completed in 1856. The palace contains 285 rooms and 46 halls.

The palace comprises three parts: the Mabeyn-i Hümâyûn (men’s quarters), Muayede Salonu (the ceremonial halls), and the Harem-i Hümâyûn (the harem or the Sultan’s family quarters).

Entrance fees and opening hours can be found here! Closed on Mondays!

Topkapı Palace

The administrative center of the Ottoman Empire from 1465 to 1853, it was commissioned by Sultan Mehmed II. It is one of the world’s most famous palaces.

Located between the Golden Horn and the Sea of Marmara at the so-called Sarayburnu (Seraglio Point), the palace consists of several smaller buildings surrounded by four courtyards. It currently operates as a museum, showcasing porcelain and glassware, Ottoman-era clothing, weapons, miniatures, calligraphic documents, and jewels.

Entrance fees and opening hours can be found here! Closed on Tuesdays!

Sunken Palace

Also known as the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı), it’s one of the largest among the several hundred ancient water reservoirs. Built in 532 by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it was in use until the end of the 16th century.

The 143×54 meter hall is supported by 336 marble columns, each over 8 meters tall. The walls of the hall are 4 meters thick.

The cistern was featured in the 2016 movie „Inferno”.

Entrance fees and opening hours can be found here!

Ortaköy Mosque

A mid-19th-century Ottoman mosque in the neo-baroque style, located on the Bosphorus shore.

It’s worth visiting the Ortaköy district for its vibrant atmosphere. Numerous cafés, restaurants await visitors, and the mosque offers a great view across the river.

Taksim Square

Istanbul’s main square and a popular meeting place for locals. Here stands the Republic Monument.

The İstiklal Avenue, the city’s main street, starts southwest from here. It’s lined with numerous shops, cafés, restaurants, and famous buildings like Madame Tussauds and the historic Çiçek Pasajı passage.

Galata Bridge

This bridge connects the Golden Horn with the old city (Sultanahmet). It’s worth walking from Galata Tower to Hagia Sophia across the bridge.

The lower part of the bridge hosts a fish market and seafood restaurants. Boat trips also depart from here.

Archaeological Museum

Istanbul’s most significant museum, where the Ancient Orient section displays about 15,000 artifacts, mainly from ancient Mesopotamia and pre-Greek Anatolia.

The museum offers a broad spectrum of ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and other Anatolian peoples’ legacies, dating back to the sixth century BC.

Entrance fees and opening hours can be found here!

Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi)

One of Istanbul’s iconic buildings, located on a small island on the Bosphorus shore. Its location makes it a popular attraction.

It functioned as a lighthouse for a long time. Today, it houses a café and restaurant, offering a magnificent view of the city from its upper terrace.

Rumelihisarı

The Rumeli Fortress or castle is a complex built on a hillside along the Bosphorus, northwest of the city center.

Built in the 1450s during Sultan Mehmed II’s reign, it was intended for the conquest of Constantinople. After the city’s capture, it lost its military role, later serving as a prison and open-air theater. It now operates as a museum.

Entrance fees and opening hours can be found here! Closed on Mondays!

Seven Towers

Known in Turkish as Yedikule Hisarı, located southwest of the city center on the Sea of Marmara shore.

The fortress’s most famous part is the Porta Aurea (Golden Gate), over 1600 years old. Unfortunately, it’s quite dilapidated, but renovation works have recently started.

It functioned as a prison for centuries, housing several Hungarian notables: Bálint Török, Gergely Bornemissza, Pál Béldi.

Miniatürk

The park displays miniature replicas of Turkey’s attractions.

With more than 130 models at a 1:25 scale, it’s one of the largest parks of its kind in the world. It features buildings from beyond Turkey’s borders, such as the Gül Baba tomb in Budapest.

Entrance fees and opening hours can be found here!

Grand Bazaar

Not far from Hagia Sophia, it’s one of the world’s largest covered markets.

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