Holidaying In Turkey? Check Out Our Favourite Top Turkish Destinations
Rich with history and culture, Turkey offers quite a few attractions. Whether you want outdoor adventures, shopping, or to see some of the places you studied in school, Turkey is a great choice. As always, traveling has its risks. For an optimal holiday experience, don’t forget to purchase Turkish travel insurance before you head out to one (or all) of Turkey’s best destinations.
1. Istanbul
Does Istanbul need any explanation? Beautiful architecture, plentiful shopping, and fascinating history. The city caters to your cosmopolitan tastes as well as your intellectual curiosity. While here, you can’t miss the Sultan Ahmet Camii (Blue Mosque) or the Aya Sofia.
2 – Ankara
The capital city of Turkey is a great centre of transportation. There are lots of museums throughout the city to keep your interest, such as the Museum of Ethnography, where you can view artifacts of Seljuk and Ottoman. Take day trips out to smaller destinations to round out your trip with a variety of experiences.
3. Konya
One of Turkey’s oldest cities, Konya is well known for its spectacular architecture.
Spend your days admiring the lovely Seljuk architecture. Before you leave, don’t miss the famous Whirling Dervishes.
4. Antalya
This beautiful Mediterranean city is full of resorts, hotels, and good dining. Enjoy swimming and sailing along the beautiful coastline. Hike and climb in the coastal mountains. Take the public transit throughout the city and see the ancient ruins.
5. Marmaris
This cruise port on the Turkish Riviera offers white beaches and sparkling blue waters. During the day, travel by boat to the Datça Peninsula to explore the coves and bays. Be sure you see the restored castle of Suleyman The Magnificent. Rest up in the afternoon so you can enjoy the active nightlife that Marmaris has to offer.
6. Side
Interested in Greek and Roman history? See the Hellenistic and Roman ruins including the remains of a huge amphitheater. Stay in a resort overlooking the sea and walk along the sandy beaches. In the evening, enjoy fine dining and a vibrant nightlife.
7. Bodrum
This beach town offers plenty of sightseeing and relaxation in one of its seaside resorts. Bodrum is home to the ruins of the Mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. You can also enjoy the Castle of St. Peter, also known as Bodrum Castle. The castle was built in the 1400s and is now a museum.
8. Ephesus
A thriving city in the times of the Roman Empire, Ephesus is home to the Temple of Artemis, another of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This destination is ideal for the history buff. Visit the huge library, take pictures of the ancient ruins and spend an afternoon in stunning Celsus library.
9. Goreme
The gateway to Goreme National Park has a wealth of natural beauty. This area is ideal for backpacking. Explore the city that was carved into volcanic rock. As you hike through the park, don’t miss the cave churches painted by medieval monks.
10. Dalyan
Another great location for an outdoor adventure. Enjoy mud baths, river tours, and bike rides. Marvel at the ancient Lycian tombs nestled into the cliffs above the river.
Whether you want history, shopping or outdoor adventures, Turkey can give you a vacation you won’t forget. As with all travel abroad, don’t forget to check the government website for advice on travelling to foreign destinations.
