Turkey is a great tourist destination for many reasons. The country is home to stunningly beautiful landscapes, from the soaring peaks of the Taurus Mountains to the sun-drenched beaches of the Mediterranean coast. In addition, Turkey boasts a rich and diverse culture, with a long and storied history that is evident in its many ancient ruins and archaeological sites.
Additionally, Turkey is also a great place to visit for its delicious food, including its world-famous kebabs and baklava. Finally, Turkey is a relatively inexpensive country to travel in, making it a great option for budget-minded travelers.
Turkey has long been a popular tourist destination for travel enthusiasts around the world, and with good reason. In this LIstPink travel guide, we will take you through some of the most stunning tourist destinations in this beautiful country.
1. Istanbul: The Jewel of Turkey’s Tourism
Istanbul is a city located in northwestern Turkey on the Bosphorus Strait. It is the largest city in Turkey and the country’s economic, cultural, and historic center. Istanbul has a population of over 20 million people, making it one of the world’s most populous cities.
The city is home to a vast array of cultural and historical attractions, including mosques, palaces, and museums. Istanbul is also a popular destination for shopping, dining, and nightlife.
Some of the top tourist attractions in Istanbul include the Hagia Sophia Museum, the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern, and other great places that we have already talked about in detail in this post. The city is also home to a large number of shopping malls, including the Istanbul Cevahir Mall and the Kanyon Mall. Istanbul is a great destination for food lovers, as the city is home to a wide variety of restaurants serving both Turkish and international cuisine.
The city is also known for its lively nightlife, with a large number of bars and nightclubs catering to both locals and tourists.
2. Cappadocia: The Rock-carved City
Cappadocia, located in central Turkey, is a great travel destination for those who love nature and history. The region is famous for its unique geological formations, fairy chimneys, and underground cities.
Cappadocia is also home to some of the best wineries in Turkey. The wineries produce a wide variety of wines, including red, white, and rosé. In addition to wine, Cappadocia is also known for its delicious cuisine. The region is famous for its kebabs, dolmas, and baklava.
The marvelous rocky region is also a great place to go sightseeing. There are a number of ancient churches and monasteries in the region, as well as underground cities that date back to the Byzantine era.
Below are some of the great things that you can do in Cappadocia:
Cappadocia is an incredible place to visit, with plenty of things to see and do. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, historical attractions, or just someplace to relax, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Cappadocia. Here are some of the best things to do in Cappadocia:
1. Visit the Goreme Open-Air Museum: This museum is home to some of the most incredible cave paintings and rock formations in the world. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Cappadocia.
2. Explore the underground city of Derinkuyu: This ancient city was once home to thousands of people, and it’s now open to visitors. It’s a fascinating place to explore, and it’s a great way to learn about the history of Cappadocia.
3. Take a hot air balloon ride: A hot air balloon ride is a must-do in Cappadocia. The views are simply amazing, and it’s a great way to see the entire region.
4. Hike in the valleys of Cappadocia: There are plenty of hiking trails to choose from in Cappadocia, and all of them offer amazing views of the region.
5. Visit a winery: Cappadocia is home to some of the best wineries in Turkey, so be sure to visit a few while you’re in the area. You won’t be disappointed.
6. Shop at the local markets: The markets in Cappadocia are a great place to find souvenirs, and you’ll be able to find some great deals on local handicrafts.
7. Relax in a hot spring: There are plenty of hot springs in the area, and they offer a great way to relax after a long day of sightseeing.
8. Visit a cave church: There are dozens of cave churches in Cappadocia, and they’re all worth a visit. Each one is unique and offers a different glimpse into the history of the region.
9. Eat a traditional Turkish meal: There are plenty of great restaurants in Cappadocia, and they all serve traditional Turkish cuisine. Be sure to try some of the local dishes while you’re there.
10. Stargaze at night: Cappadocia is one of the best places in the world to stargaze, so be sure to spend some time looking at the stars while you’re there.
3. Antalya: The Hot Beach City
There is plenty to do in Antalya, whether you’re looking for a relaxing holiday or an action-packed adventure. Here are some of the top things to do in Antalya:
1. Explore the old city: The old city of Antalya is full of charming cobblestone streets and historical buildings. Take a stroll through the city and explore the many mosques, shops, and restaurants.
2. Visit the Archaeological Museum: The Archaeological Museum is one of the top tourist attractions in Antalya and is home to a large collection of ancient artifacts.
3. Go shopping: Antalya is a great place to go shopping, with a wide range of stores selling everything from souvenirs to designer clothes.
4. Relax on the beach: Antalya has some of the best beaches in Turkey, so make sure to relax on the sand and soak up the sun.
5. Take a trip to the waterfalls: The Karpuzkaldıran Waterfalls are a must-see attraction in Antalya. These beautiful waterfalls are located in a picturesque setting and are perfect for a day trip.
6. Try some Turkish cuisine: Turkish cuisine is renowned for being some of the best in the world. Make sure to try some of the local dishes while you’re in Antalya.
7. Go on a jeep safari: If you’re looking for an adventure, go on a jeep safari through the stunning Turkish countryside.
8. See the sights from a hot air balloon: A hot air balloon ride is a great way to see the sights of Antalya from a different perspective.
9. Visit the Hadrian’s Gate: The Hadrian’s Gate is a beautiful Roman gate that is well worth a visit.
4. Konya: The City of Whirling Dervishes
Konya is a city located in Central Anatolia in Turkey. It is the seventh most populous city in Turkey with a population of 1,197,814 as of 2010. Konya is an important cultural and commercial center and is the capital of Konya Province.
Here are 10 things to do in Konya:
1. Visit the Mevlana Museum: The museum is dedicated to the 13th-century Sufi mystic and poet Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi. The museum is located in the former palace of the Mevlana family.
2. Climb The Alaaddin Hill: The hill is located in the city center and is home to the Seljuk Alaaddin Mosque.
3. Visit the Karatay Madrasa: The madrasa was built in 1251 by the Seljuk vizier Alaaddin Karatay.
4. The Konya Archaeological Museum: The museum is home to a large collection of Seljuk and Ottoman artifacts.
5. Visit the Turkish National Carpet and Kilim Museum: The museum is home to a large collection of Turkish carpets and kilims.
6. Take a walk in the city center: The city center is home to a number of historical mosques and madrasas.
7. Take a walk in Seman Park: The park is home to a number of beautiful gardens and is a great place to relax.
8. Have a cup of tea in a traditional Turkish teahouse: There are a number of teahouses located in the city center.
9. Sample the local cuisine: The city is home to a number of restaurants serving traditional Turkish cuisine.
10. Shop for souvenirs: The city is home to a number of souvenir shops selling a variety of Turkish souvenirs.
5. Trabzon – Green, Hilly, and Chilly
The Black Sea Region’s jewel, Trabzon is a city rich in history and natural beauty.
Here are 10 things you must do when visiting:
1. Climb to the summit of Mount Çakır Tepe for panoramic views of the city and the Black Sea.
2. Explore the ruins of the 13th-century citadel of Trabzon.
3. Admire the beautiful frescoes of the 14th-century Sumela Monastery.
4. Visit the Ortahisar Fortress, a well-preserved Byzantine fortress.
5. Wander through the bazaar and buy some souvenirs.
6. Sample the local cuisine, which is a mix of Turkish and Russian flavors.
7. Take a boat trip to the nearby Zigana Mountains.
8. Visit the Museum of Trabzon, which features exhibits on the city’s history and culture.
9. Go for a walk in the lush Rize Valley.
10. relax on the beaches of the Black Sea.
6. Gaziantep: Food, History, and a Zoo
Gaziantep is a city in southeastern Turkey, near the Syrian border. It is the sixth most populous city in Turkey with a population of 1.9 million. The city is known for its cuisine, including its kebabs, which have been featured in The New York Times.
Here are 10 things to do in Gaziantep:
1. Visit the Gaziantep Museum of Archaeology: This museum is home to a large collection of artifacts from the ancient civilizations that once inhabited the region.
2. Visit the Gaziantep Fortress: This fortress was built in the 9th century and is now a popular tourist attraction.
3. Take a walk through the Gaziantep Zoo: This zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears.
4. Sample the local cuisine: Gaziantep is known for its delicious kebabs, which can be found in restaurants throughout the city.
5. Visit the Gaziantep Bazaar: This bazaar is home to a variety of shops and stalls, where you can find a wide range of souvenirs to take home with you.
6. Take a walk through the city park: Gaziantep’s city park is a great place to relax and enjoy the fresh air.
7. Visit the Gaziantep War Museum: This museum is dedicated to the memory of those who died in the Battle of Gaziantep during World War II.
8. Take a day trip to Sanliurfa: Sanliurfa is a city located just a few hours away from Gaziantep. It is home to a number of ancient ruins and religious sites.
9. Take a day trip to Aleppo: Aleppo is the largest city in Syria, located just a few hours away from Gaziantep. It is home to a number of ancient ruins and historical sites.
10. Take a day trip to Damascus: Damascus is the capital of Syria and is home to a number of ancient ruins and historical sites.
7. Bursa: Istanbul’s Sister City
Bursa is a city in northwestern Turkey and the capital of Bursa Province. It is located about 140 km south of Istanbul. The city is renowned for its thermal baths and historical monuments. Bursa is also home to some of the most famous Turkish dishes such as İskender kebap, döner kebap, and köfte.
Here are 10 things you should not miss doing when in Bursa:
1. Visit Uludag National Park: Uludag National Park is a beautiful mountain park that is perfect for hiking, cycling, and skiing.
2. Shop at the Bursa Grand Bazaar: The Bursa Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and most famous bazaars in Turkey. It is home to hundreds of shops and vendors.
3. See the sights of the Ottoman Empire: Bursa was once the capital of the Ottoman Empire, and there are still many sights and monuments from that time period to be seen.
4. Eat a traditional Turkish breakfast: Turkish breakfast is a huge and delicious affair, and it’s a great way to start the day.
5. Visit the Bursa Museum of Archaeology: The Bursa Museum of Archaeology is home to a large collection of ancient artifacts from the region.
6. Take a boat ride on the Bursa River: The Bursa River is a great place to take a relaxing boat ride and enjoy the sights of the city.
7. Visit the Bursa Zoo: The Bursa Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears.
8. See the sights at Cumalikizik: Cumalikizik is a small village located just outside of Bursa that is home to some of the most beautiful Ottoman architecture in the country.
9. Take a trip to the thermal springs: The thermal springs of Bursa are a great place to relax and enjoy the healing properties of the water.
10. Sample the delicious Turkish cuisine: Turkish cuisine is some of the best in the world, and Bursa is home to many excellent restaurants serving up the best of the best.
8. Izmir: The 3rd Biggest City
Izmir is a city on the Aegean Sea in western Turkey. It is the third most populous city in the country after Istanbul and Ankara. It is the second most important port in Turkey after Istanbul. Tourism is an important industry in Izmir. The city has many historical and cultural sites that attract tourists. These include the ancient city of Ephesus, the Kemeraltı bazaar, the İzmir Museum of Archaeology, and the İzmir Atatürk Organized Industrial Zone.
Here are 10 things you can do in Izmir:
1. Visit the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved in the world.
2. Take a ferry to the nearby island of Samos, a beautiful place with great beaches.
3. Climb Mount Nemrut, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with incredible views.
4. Explore the winding streets of the ancient city of Bergama.
5. Relax on the beautiful beaches of Cesme.
6. Sample the delicious Turkish cuisine.
7. Explore the fascinating history of the Ottoman Empire.
8. Shop in the vibrant markets of Izmir.
9. Take a walk in the lush forests of the Izmir National Park.
10. Visit the beautiful Aspendos Theater.
9. Alanya: A Popular Destination
Alanya is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Turkey. It is located on the Mediterranean coast and is known for its beaches, resorts, and historical sites. The city is a popular destination for vacationers from all over the world, and the tourism industry is a major contributor to the local economy.
Here are the 10 things you can enjoy doing in Alanya:
1. Swim in the Mediterranean Sea
2. Take a boat trip to one of the nearby islands
3. Climb to the top of the Alanya Castle
4. Wander through the narrow streets of the old town
5. Relax on the beach
6. Shop in the markets
7. Eat Turkish food
8. Take a walk or cycle along the river
9. See the sunset over the sea
10. Enjoy the nightlife
10. Ankara: Last But Not Least, The Capital
Ankara is the capital of Turkey and is a large city with a population of over 4.5 million. It is a mix of old and new with historical mosques and churches, and modern high-rise buildings. There are many places to see and things to do in Ankara, such as visiting museums, going to the bazaar, or hiking in the nature parks.
Here are 10 things to do in Turkey’s capital city:
1. Visit Anitkabir, the mausoleum of Atatürk, the founder and first president of the Republic of Turkey.
2. Explore the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which is one of the largest museums in the world devoted to a single region.
3. Have a picnic in one of Ankara’s many parks, such as Güven Park or Ulus Park.
4. Take a walk or ride a bike along the Ankara Citadel Wall.
5. Sample Turkish cuisine at one of the city’s many restaurants.
6. Shop at the Çankaya and Kızılay shopping districts.
7. Visit the Temple of Augustus and Rome, the only surviving Roman temple in Ankara.
8. Attend a performance at the State Opera and Ballet or the National Theatre.
9. See the ruins of the Great Temple of Zeus at Beypazarı, an hour outside of Ankara.
10. Explore the caves of Mount Erciyes, a popular weekend getaway from the city.
These were our top ten cities in turkey for tourists to visit. Did you visit Turkey already? What other places would you recommend visiting?