The colorful and vivacious country of Turkey in the Middle East is an interesting vacation destination. With plenty of Places to visit in Turkey, one can experience the ancient influence of Greek, Roman, Ottoman, Persian and Byzantine eras in its many cities, like Ankara, Istanbul and Cappadocia. Along with history is the culture of this place which one can experience in its Mosques and other monuments that have stood the test of time.
Moreover, one day you can be ascending the highest peaks in the country to the next day floating on the salty Dead sea or experiencing the stark contrast between old and modern, Places to see in Turkey offer everything. The calming beaches, the lush parks, the fun-filled nightlife, you name it and Turkey has it. During your trip, this exquisite location becomes even more interesting as you get to be a part of two continents that Turkey straddles between.
Tip: Travel to famous places in Turkey in ferries; stack up on sunblock, and hike to places to discover new things.
1. Kabak Bay
Want some hippie vibe? Check out the tranquil Kabak Bay. If you’re in Turkey, visiting places like the Kabak Valley near Fethiye will be very easy, since you can simply hire a taxi to enjoy the jaw-dropping beauty. Or if you’re adventurous at heart, you can always opt for a day hike. It is one of the most beautiful and famous places in Turkey.
2. Butterfly Valley
Unleash the bohemian in you in the charming Butterfly Valley, one of the best places to visit in Turkey. You can laze around in a hammock, sip your favorite drink and enjoy a campfire and music at the Rock Bar. It is one of the famous Turkey places to visit.
3. Patara
A must among places to see in Turkey is Patara, the longest beach in Turkey. There are a few reasonably priced beach cafés with umbrellas and sunbeds for hire here if you’re wondering what to see in Turkey once you’re at this beach. Also if you’re lucky, you can witness a sunset and moonrise at the same time from the top of a dune. Absolutely enchanting, This place is amongst the most famous Turkey places to visit.
4. Princes’ Island
Princes’ Island is among the major tourist attractions in Istanbul, Turkey. The best thing here is the silence – horse-drawn carriages and bicycles are available instead of motorized vehicles. The landscape of Princes Island makes it one of the stunning islands and the best places to visit in Turkey in February for those who seek peace and solitude. In fact, travelers sometimes end up spending as long as 6 to 7 days in Turkey only to see the charm of the Princes’ Island.
5. Cappadocia
One of the best places to visit in Turkey, Cappadocia is the result of a volcanic eruption. Explore the place with a horse ride, take an air balloon ride, and don’t forget to sip on Turkish tea. It is one of the best cities in Turkey that will leave you in awe of it. This is one place you must surely explore if you are visiting Turkey in September or October.
6. Hagia Sophia Museum
If your first destination is Istanbul, don’t forget to visit the iconic Hagia Sophia Museum, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Turkey. A church built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, it was converted to a mosque after some 900 years. It is one of the most beautiful mosques in Istanbul and one of the best places to visit in Turkey.
7. Mount Nemrut
Can’t miss this one on our list of Turkey famous places. This historical site, the 8th wonder of the world, is situated on the Arisaema antique road and is studded with huge statues of King Antiochus I Theos of Commagene two lions, two eagles and various Greek, and Persian gods.
8. The City Of Ephesus
Wondering what to see in Turkey that isn’t crowded and cliched? The ancient city Ephesus located in Selcuk, a small town 30 km away from Kusadasi, is one of the best Turkey tourist places that you can visit for some much-needed peace and quiet. An active commercial center once, it is now among the best places to go in Turkey now. This is amongst the best places to visit in Turkey. Though most of it is in ruins, some structures like The Great Theatre and the Library of Celsus can still be seen.
Tips: Consult government-run tourism information offices to get an idea on how to go to various places to see in Turkey. The staff is multilingual and helpful regarding all sorts of inquiries.
9. Grand Bazaar
Jeweler, souvenirs, rugs, tea, and clothes – you get everything at the Grand Bazaar. And yeah, don’t forget to bargain. For those who are seeking to shop their hearts out without feeling guilty at some of the best places in Turkey for holiday for shopping, this is the place to be at. Grand Bazaar hides something for each and every one. One day would not be enough to explore the beauty of this famous and significant attraction in Turkey! This bazaar is one of the best places to visit in Turkey as it reflects the rich culture and art of this country.
10. The Egyptian Bazaar
Love spices? Egyptian Bazaar is one of the best Turkey tourist places to discover some unfamiliar spices and dried fruits. Turkey is known for its markets and bazaars. The hustling and bustling of these markets make Turkey seem more lively and vibrant. The local sellers are equally welcoming but one might need extensive bargaining skills to spend some less money here. It is one of the cheap places to visit in Turkey.
11. Ottomania
The Ottomania is Turkey’s largest retailer of carpets and rugs. The prices of the carpet range from $1000 to $10000. Turkey is known for its handicrafts and handmade rugs and carpets. The authenticity that oozes out of the material and designs from these carpets is something that one cannot find anywhere. Get these rugs as souvenirs at some of the best places to visit in Turkey for shopping, a touch of Turkey that will stay with you for a lifetime.
12. Sahaflar Carsisi
Among the most beautiful places in Turkey, this is the perfect one for book lovers. Sahaflar Carsisi, the second-hand book bazaar, is one of the oldest markets of Istanbul. It is open on all days, except Sunday.
Tips: Beware of fake items. Brush up your bargaining skills. Learn a few Turkish words and use them while shopping.
13. Istanbul
Voyages of Discovery is a unique way to discover many of the best places to visit in Turkey. Before it heads to Greece, Voyages of Discovery visits Çanakkale, Dikili and Antalya. One of the most famous and most visited cities, there is an extensive number of places to visit in Istanbul, Turkey, including the pristine Istanbul beaches that tourists love to explore.
14. Marmaris
Another best place to visit in Turkey is Marmaris. The Thomson cruises start off at Marmaris. It gives a tour of almost all prominent places to see in Turkey – Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque and others. Marmaris showcases magnificent views of the Turkish waters that are bound to take the breath away of spectators.
15. Port Of Istanbul
If you are looking for a budget cruise to cover select best places in Turkey, MSC cruises are the best. It covers most of the top-drawn tourist attractions like the Roman city of Ephesus and the city of Istanbul. The cruises that sail through this port allow travelers to witness a perfect amalgamation of comfort and luxury. This makes every traveler fall in love with Turkey instantly! This is one of the best places to see in Turkey.
16. Eminonu
The stunning Bosphorus strait connects the Black Sea with the Mediterranean. Though it is one of the most overlooked places to visit in Turkey for couples, it has a lot to offer. You can take a full Bosphorus tour by night by ferry. The ferry leaves before dusk providing great Istanbul sunset views. You can also opt for a private tour and luxury yacht to cruise through the best places in Turkey.
Tips: The best time for a cruise through tourist places in Turkey is during May-June or Sept-Oct. Ask for recommendations from fellow travelers, and book in advance to avoid the rush.
17. Izmir
Izmir is the frontier and sunshine city of Turkey. With a population of over 4 million, Izmir is the third-largest city in Turkey. Situated on the western edge of Turkey, Izmir is famous for its figs, olives, and grapes. Surrounded by mountains and bays, Izmir is the land of natural, organic and fresh, which makes it one of the best places to visit in Turkey. The beautiful city of Izmir offers visitors a unique holiday experience that attracts people from all over the world.
18. Topkapi Palace
Built-in the 15th century by Mehmet the Conqueror, the palace remained both the symbolic and political home of the Ottoman Empire until 1853. This palace will take you back in the past with its decoration, treasure, and Haren, which is why it’s one of the most interesting places in Turkey for history geeks. All together makes this place spellbound and is a must-see for any tourist visiting Istanbul in Turkey. The palace was converted into a museum after the fall of the Ottoman Empire in 1924.
19. Ani
Rumored to be an abused, forgotten metropolis which is abandoned for centuries. With extraordinarily beautiful churches, the city will put you in an uneasy feeling, but the beauty of its surroundings and striking landscape presents an opposite picture of beauty and serenity, making it one of the best places to visit in Turkey. The ruins of Ani have been inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2016.
20. Pamukkale
Pamukkale literally means, “cotton castle” in Turkish and with over two million visitors annually it is one of Turkey’s top attractions and a precious in the world with its cotton-look terraces. Its natural site is located in Denizli in southwestern Turkey. Pamukkale is
famous for its surreal, brilliant white travertine terraces and warm springs. There are some interesting places to visit in Pamukkale.
21. Selimiye Mosque
Built-in the Ottoman and Islamic architecture, the mosque is magnificent beyond belief. Built by Mimar Sinan, this mosque is a place that has historical importance, but this mosque also holds religious importance and falls in the European part of Turkey. The Ottoman imperial mosque was designed by one of the most distinguished architects of the Ottoman Empire, Mimar Sinan. The Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex have been recognized as a World Heritage site by UNESCO. This is one of the most visited in the list of Turkey famous places.
22. Erzurum
Erzurum is a paradise for architecture and history lovers. It is a hub for tourists visiting Eastern Turkey in December. It is the largest city in the entirety of Erzurum province and one of the most attractive Turkey tourist spots. The fantastic and incredible Seljuk, Saltuk, Mongol and Ottoman mosques and Seminaries are the main attraction of the city. The city is surrounded by mountains and steppes.
23. Sumela Monastery
Sumela Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries to be built in the entire world and its construction dates back to the 4th century. Located outside the Turkish city of Trabzon, this stunning, lonely setting acts as the major attraction for the visitors being. Sumela Monastery is standing on the cliff of Zigana Mountain and it is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best places to visit in Turkey for architecture fanatics and spiritual souls.
24. Aladağlar National Park
Sprawled over 55065 hectares of land, this mountainous Park was established in 1995 and is famous as the Alps of Turkey. The Aladağlar Na is ideal and famous for its trekking, hiking, and mountaineering sports in the entire country. This is one of the best Turkey tourist places. The region is covered with rocks only and the colors are very different from our daily life in cities.
25. Ankara
Considered Turkey’s Beating Heart, Ankara is the capital of and the second-largest city in Turkey. At an altitude of 850m lies the city of Ankara. Ankara is located in the very heart of the Eastern Edge of the great High Anatolian Plateau. The city is known for its beautiful and long spread yellow wheat fields, young volcanoes and a huge number of the Steppe. From the top of the Ankara Citadel, you can get a panoramic view of the city. Also, there are a plethora of spellbinding places to visit in Ankara that certainly reflect the true essence of Turkey. Do visit this city as it is one of the most popular among the best places to visit in Turkey list!
26. Bodrum
Bodrum was used to be a pleasant fishing village of a few thousand people, Bodrum has transformed into one of the most popular vacation hotspots of Turkey. Its inviting, colorful environment attracts people from all over the world. The best places to visit in Turkey that you shouldn’t miss visiting are The Bodrum Castle, the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, Myndos Gate, and the ancient Bodrum Theatre.
27. Akdamar Island
Situated in the Salty Lake Van, Akdamar Island is famous mainly for its Holy Cross, Church, and other Armenian Monastery which stay ruined, but still have its glory retained. The famous Akdamar Church is now transformed into a museum, and there are many bas relief carvings on the exterior walls. The carving depicts the Biblical scenes with Adam, Eve, Abraham, Jesun, David and, Goliath. With breathtaking adjacent areas, the Island is surrounded by steep rocks. It also offers a mesmerizing view with almond trees blooming in the spring months making it one of the best places to visit in Turkey.
28. Çanakkale
Explore the Gallipoli battlefields and the ruins of Troy in the city, Çanakkale is an honorable resting place for the soldiers who lost their lives in Gelibolu. The city of Çanakkale lies at the narrow 1200m entrance to the Dardanelles, which connects the Marmara Sea and the Aegean Sea. The famous Archaeological Site of Troy is also added to the World Heritage Cultural List of UNESCO.
29. Avşa Island
Sprawled over an area of 14 square miles, the Avşa Island is also known as Türkeli. Located within the borders of Balikesir province, the island is almost completely surrounded by beaches. The island has a large range of hills running down the middle, some beautiful bays are also there for bathing, swimming or just for relaxing in the hot weather, which is why it’s one of the best places to go in turkey in summer. This is one of the best Turkey tourist places. There are plenty of hotels, bars, nightclubs, and restaurants with live music for visitors and nightlife is also very colorful in Avşa.
30. Pigeon Valley
Pigeon Valley, officially known as Güvercinlik Vadisi, got its name from the many pigeon houses carved into the rocks and cliffs. This unique valley is one of the best places to visit in Turkey. Located between the Goreme and Uchisar district in Cappadocia, the Pigeon Valley is one of the longest valleys that reflects distinctive formations. This nature-friendly area is perfect for walking, trekking, and hiking. The magical environment of the valley grabs people from all over the world.
