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10 Places to Visit in Turkey

Ten Places to visit in Turkey

Turkey established itself as the core hub of the Silk Road. It was and still is, the place where Eastern and Western cultures meet. At the top of so many (including mine) bucket-list destinations and one of the most visited countries on the planet, Turkey is one place you absolutely must-see.

From white sand beaches to ancient buildings, here is your guide to 10 places to visit in Turkey.

Cappadocia

The heart of Anatolia, this destination is famous for its “fairy chimneys” and the rainbow of hot air balloons that flow in the sky.

Air Balloons in Cappadocia

Find a spot for yourself on the gorgeous terraces overlooking the desert landscape, and start early! Get up before dawn and watch the sunrise then start spotting hot air balloons.

Bring your camera to Rose Valley for an unforgettable view, explore the fascinating caves, then watch the sunset over Göreme.

Pamukkale

This UNESCO World Heritage site has an otherworldly beauty. The thermal waters of the white terraces have been a spa destination all the way back to Roman days. Scale to the top of the nearly 200 m / 655 feet tall cliff to take in the wonder of this amazing spot.

Hot springs in Pamukkale Turkey

Mardin

One of the oldest cities of Northern Mesopotamia, this is one of Southeast Anatolia’s must-visits. Located near the Syrian border, Mardin has a dynamic blend of Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, Seljuk, and Mongol cultures. The history and architecture are truly unlike anywhere else.

Buildings in Mardin Turkey

Be sure to fuel your journey with a unique coffee blend like dibek, a coffee made with cardamom, and menengic, an amazing pistachio and milk blend.

Marmaris

A town on the Mediterranean coast is the crown jewel of the Turkish Riviera. This stunning region is also known as the Turquoise Coast for its flawless beaches.

Boats at Sea in Marmaris Turkey

Of course, it’s a beach lover’s dream but it’s also more than that. Whether you are looking for outdoor spots that’ll get your heart pumping or non-stop nightlife, this is the place to be.

This is also a prime base for island hopping. In just three hours, you can be over to the Greek island of Rhodes.

Kas

Kas is one of the best scuba diving destinations on the planet. This gorgeous little bougainvillea-covered town is known for its ancient ruins and top-notch restaurants.

From su böreği to kunefe, this place is an indisputable foodie favorite.

Boat in sea in Kas Turkey

Konya

One of the oldest cities in the world and best known for its remarkable Seljuk architecture, Konya is one of the largest cities in Turkey. Konya offers beautiful green spaces and parks such as Alaeddin Hill, in the city center, and the Japanese Park with its lovely pagodas, waterfalls and ponds.

Dancer in Konya Turkey

Izmir

Turkey’s most overlooked city”. While tourists flock to Istanbul and other coastal hotspots, this treasure is left for the locals.

Ruins of Izmir in Turkey

Turkey’s third-largest city, this coastal city has always looked toward Europe. A meeting point of cultures, Izmir offers a unique blend of European and Middle Eastern influences. Soak in the view from Asanor, take in the wonders of the Roman Empire, then do some people watching at one of the countless sidewalk cafes.

Bodrum

Bodrum is home to the ancient fortified city, Halicarnassus, which was once home to marble buildings, temples, statutes, paved streets, and the Mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Sea view in Bodrum Turkey

Today, Bodrum’s ruins, stunning beaches, and cliff-top resorts attract people from all over the world. On cities east side, you will find a beautiful beach overlooking brilliant blue water.

Near the beach are plenty of cafes, bars, and nightclubs. On the western side of town are the marina, shopping centers, and restaurants.

Ephesus

Old stomping grounds of everyone from Alexander the Great to ​​Cleopatra, the ancient city of Ephesus was a key Roman city. It was the capital of Asia Minor, and second only to Rome in terms of population and cultural significance.

Ruins at Ephesus in Turkey

As one of the best-preserved ancient Roman cities along the Mediterranean, this cultural mecca is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It’s also an easy day trip from Izmir, Kusadasi, or Selçuk.

Ankara

A sprawling, modern city, Ankara is home to government buildings, commercial businesses, universities, and foreign embassies. Located right in the center of the country and the Anatolia region, Ankara is an important transportation hub, linking nationals and tourists alike to other destinations in Turkey.

Temple in Ankara Turkey

It is not everything business in Ankara, the old city was once inhabited by various cultures including Hittite, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman.

That is why today Ankara is riddled with ancient structures and ruins reflecting its history. Some of the most notable of these are the Temple of Augustus, the Citadel, and a Roman Theatre.

Turkey - 10 cities to visit
10 Places to visit in turkey

Hello! I’m Sara, a Croatian native. I’ve traveled all over the world and have knocked out some amazing cities and countries off my bucket list.

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