Ranging from beautiful crystal beaches to the soaring mountains, Turkey has been the perfect destination spot for exploring.
The country is very diverse as it used to be a location for extensive trade and a place where many cultures intertwined.
As a result, there are now many different types of food, archaeological sites, music, and more.
Are you looking to explore Turkey but unsure where to start? Here are ten places that are a must-see!
Ankara
Ankara
Turkey's capital city is home to various government buildings, universities, foreign embassies.
Although the city is prominent in business, it also offers plenty of historical sites and art passed down from various civilizations such as Hittite, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman.
Be sure to check out some notable sites, including the Temple of Augustus, the Citadel, Anitkabir, and the Roman Theatre.
Mardin
Mardin is the capital of Mardin Province, known for the cultural diversity and Old City of sandstone buildings that trail down the hill.
The old city can be explored by walking through the streets of terraced houses, and you'll come across popular sites such as Deyru-z-Zadaran Monastery, Sultan Isa Medresesi, and the Great Mosque.
Konya
Located in Turkey's Central Anatolia Region, Konya encompasses much of the Seljuk architecture and Whirling Dervishes.
It's also one of the oldest cities in the world, holding the Alaeddin Mosque and Ince Minare Medrese, both from the Seljuk and Ottoman eras.
Make sure to check out the Seljuk Tower, which has a remarkable revolving restaurant at the top!
Antalya
Situated on the Mediterranean coastline, Antalya is a vibrant city that has plenty of hotels/resorts, bars, restaurants along the beautiful beaches and mountains.
You'll have a chance to partake in outdoor activities like mountain climbing, swimming, sailing, sightseeing, and much more.
Walk around Kaleici, the Old Quarter, and see the beautiful churches, mosques, and temples that are surrounded by local shops, cafes, and Turkish baths.
Marmaris
Marmaris
Marmaris is one of Turkey's most popular seaside resorts presenting sandy pearl beaches and turquoise waters and features a popular cruise port that is amazing for sightseeing, dining and kicking off a day of water sports.
Get a boating tour or walk through the 16th century Castle of Suleyman the Magnificent.
There are also horse safaris, water parks for the entire family to enjoy.
The nightlife is one of the most vibrant in Turkey, so don't forget to get Turkey's local cuisine for dinner and drinks.
Side
This beautiful town began as a major port in Pamphylia and was occupied by Alexander Great in the 4th century BC.
Tour through the city and view the colossal amphitheater, Byzantine basilica, public baths, and temples.
Make sure to end the day by going to the Temple of Apollo for a gorgeous sunset view.
Bodrum
Bodrum was once an ancient, fortified city, with marble buildings, temples, statutes, and the Mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Visit the beach and stop at the endless cafes, bars, and nightclubs.
The castle of St. Peter (Bodrum Castle) is also a must-see, and open for visitors to explore.
Inside the castle is the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology filled with Turkish saunas, mud baths, scuba diving, boat tours, and nightclubs with fancy glass-bottomed dance floors.
Ephesus
This ancient site also has another one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World called the Temple of Artemis. The ruins are in a large archaeological site, making it one of the most visited places in Turkey.
The Library of Celsus is also another popular site, featuring what was once one of the largest libraries in the ancient world. Browse the market for a double-knit carpet, one of the most popular souvenirs from Ephesus.
Cappadocia
Do you want to visit a real-life fairytale? Cappadocia offers unique land formations resulting from natural ancient volcanic eruptions and manmade touches such as carved out houses, churches, and underground cities from the soft rock.
There are also plenty of restaurants, nightlife, museums, fairy chimneys, and caves to explore endlessly
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Istanbul
Istanbul
Last but not least, you can't leave Turkey without visiting Istanbul.
It's such a large city that it spans two continents! There's countless architecture, historic sites, fine dining, nightlight, and the list goes on. Be sure to check out Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest markets.
If you're looking to explore more of the city, be sure to check out New City and the Bosphorus area.
Head to Beyoglu and Galata for the entertainment and nightlife!
There's so much more to discover within these cities and beyond the popular tourist sites.
Are you ready to head to beautiful, exotic Turkey? Contact us to get planning!
Turkey is calling, and it’s time to answer! From the ancient wonders of Ephesus to the fairy-tale landscapes of Cappadocia, there’s so much to explore in this breathtaking country. Whether you’re dreaming of relaxing on Antalya’s beaches, strolling through Istanbul’s vibrant bazaars, or soaking in the history of Bodrum, Vacations by Andrea is here to help you plan the perfect trip. Let’s work together to create an itinerary that matches your travel style and ensures you don’t miss a thing. Reach out today—your Turkish adventure awaits!
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