Discover Enchanting Turkey
Turkey is a fascinating country with a rich history, impressive architecture, beautiful beaches, and delicious gastronomy. From the vibrant Istanbul to the tranquil Mediterranean coast, there is something for everyone in this lively and colorful country. Here we’ll help you with information to plan your trip to Turkey.
Places to Visit
Istanbul: Turkey’s largest city and home to some of the world’s most impressive monuments, such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar. In addition to its rich history, Istanbul is a nightlife hub with countless bars, clubs, and restaurants.
Cappadocia: A region in central Turkey known for its unique rock formations, underground caves, and stunning landscapes. Visitors can enjoy hot air balloon rides at sunrise or sunset to experience panoramic views of the region.
Pamukkale: A town in western Turkey famous for its hot springs and natural white travertine pools. It’s a unique place in the world where visitors can walk on natural terraces and soak in the thermal waters.
Ephesus: One of Turkey’s most important archaeological sites, Ephesus is an ancient Roman city with impressive monuments like the Great Theater and the Celsus Library. A must-visit for history and archaeology lovers.
Antalya: A coastal city in southern Turkey, famous for its beaches, historical ruins, and nightlife. It’s also a great place to enjoy water activities like snorkeling and diving.
Where to Stay
There is a wide variety of accommodation options in Turkey, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Here are some of my recommended places:
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus: Located in the heart of Istanbul, this luxury hotel offers stunning Bosphorus views, a world-class spa, and several high-end restaurants.
The House Hotel Bosphorus: This luxury boutique hotel is located in the historic Ortaköy neighborhood, with views of the Bosphorus and the Bosphorus Bridge. The rooms are elegant and comfortable, and the service is excellent.
The Dorm Cave By Travellers: This hotel in Cappadocia is unique as it’s built in a cave. The rooms are simple but cozy, and the atmosphere is quiet and relaxing.
Alp Pasa Hotel: This boutique hotel in Antalya is a historic 18th-century building with comfortable rooms and traditional Turkish decor. The hotel also features a beautiful garden and an outdoor pool.
Hippy Homes Hostel: Located in the tranquil coastal town of Olympos, this hostel is a great place for those seeking budget accommodation and a relaxed experience. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and there are communal areas to socialize with other travelers.
What to Do in Turkey
Visit a Mosque: Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country and home to some of the world’s most impressive mosques. The Blue Mosque in Istanbul and the Selimiye Mosque in Edirne are just a few of the many options to visit.
Enjoy a Turkish Bath: Also known as a hammam, Turkish baths are a unique experience in Turkish culture. There are many places to enjoy a relaxing bath, such as the famous Çemberlitas Hamami in Istanbul.
Experience the Grand Bazaar: One of the largest markets in the world, Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is an impressive place to explore and shop for Turkish souvenirs. There are over 4,000 shops in the market, so it’s easy to get lost in the excitement.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: The Cappadocia region is famous for its unique rock formations and stunning landscapes. One of the best ways to experience the region’s beauty is through a hot air balloon ride at sunrise or sunset.
Savor Turkish Cuisine: Turkish cuisine is one of the most delicious in the world, with dishes like kebabs, baklava, and meze. There are many excellent restaurants throughout the country, but some of my favorites include Asitane Restaurant in Istanbul and Tike Restaurant in Antalya.
Turkish Gastronomy
Turkish gastronomy is a combination of influences from Ottoman, Persian, Arabic, and Balkan cuisines. Here are some dishes and drinks I recommend trying during your visit:
Kebab: A grilled meat dish served with pita bread, salad, and sauce.
Meze: A variety of small dishes, similar to Spanish tapas, served as appetizers.
Baklava: A sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough and nuts, covered in honey or sugar syrup.
Raki: An anise-flavored alcoholic beverage that’s mixed with water before drinking. Cay: Turkish tea is a popular drink throughout the country and is served in small glass cups.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Places in Turkey
Turkey is a country full of hidden gems and lesser-known places worth exploring. Here are some off-the-beaten-path destinations I recommend visiting:
Ani: An abandoned medieval city located in eastern Turkey, near the Armenian border. The city was once the capital of the Armenian Bagratuni Kingdom and is home to numerous ancient churches and fortifications. It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fascinating place to visit.
Safranbolu: An ancient town in the Karadeniz region, known for its wooden houses and Ottoman architecture. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a great place to explore narrow alleyways and local markets.
Derinkuyu: An underground city located in the Cappadocia region. It was carved into volcanic rock over 2,000 years ago and could house up to 20,000 people. It’s an impressive place to explore and learn about the region’s history.
Mount Nemrut: A mountain in southeastern Turkey, known for its giant Hellenistic-era statues. The statues are located at the mountain’s summit and offer stunning views of the region.
Akyaka: A coastal village on the Aegean Sea, known for its sandy beaches and white-and-blue houses. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and sea.
Turkey is a country rich in history, culture, natural beauty, and delicious gastronomy.
From the impressive Ottoman architecture to the ancient ruins of Hellenistic civilization, through the beautiful landscapes of Cappadocia and the beaches of the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas, there is something for every taste in Turkey.
Additionally, the warm hospitality and friendliness of the people make tourists feel welcome and at home. Turkey is a unique and exciting experience you’ll never forget. Read our article about things to do on a Marmaris Turkey in your next trip.
