Turkey is a country blessed with a rich history, incredible natural beauty, and fascinating cultural sites that attract visitors from all over the world. As a leading Turkish travel agency, we’re often asked for recommendations on the best places to visit on a trip to Turkey. After many years of experience designing custom Turkey tour itineraries, here are some of our absolute favorite destinations and attractions that should be on every Turkey bucket list:
The vibrant capital of Istanbul should be at the top of any Turkey itinerary. This city spans Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus strait, giving it a truly unique atmosphere. Some must-see highlights include:
With its mix of historic sites, markets, cafes, and museums, Istanbul is an endlessly fascinating city to explore.
The otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia are like nowhere else on earth. This region in central Turkey is characterized by whimsical “fairy chimneys” and cave dwellings carved right into rock formations. Some of our favorite things to do here include:
With its unique geological formations, ancient history, and brilliant sunset views, Cappadocia is a truly magical place to visit.
Along Turkey’s western Aegean coast, you’ll find spectacular Greco-Roman ruins, gorgeous beaches, and charming coastal villages. The famous ancient city of Ephesus is a can’t-miss attraction, where you can walk down marble streets and see sites like the mammoth Library of Celsus. Other highlights along the coast include:
With sunny weather, dazzling ruins, and inviting coastline, visiting the Aegean region is an idyllic way to experience some of Turkey’s most famous historical sites.
Along Turkey’s Mediterranean south coast, you’ll discover some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. The lively resort town of Antalya serves as a gateway to this sunny region’s top attractions:
With its striking scenery, laidback seaside towns, and ruins dotted along the coast, the Turquoise Coast is a delightful area to relax or engage in active adventures.
In additional to its famous historical sites, Turkey is also an incredible destination for savoring delightful cuisine and absorbing endlessly fascinating culture. Be sure to try dishes like kebabs, baklava pastries, mezes, and Turkish coffee. Visit bazaars, museums, and cultural sites to learn about traditions like tilemaking, carpet weaving, whirling dervishes, and more. With so many flavors, sights, sounds, and experiences, Turkey offers visitors endless opportunities for one-of-a-kind memories.
Whether you want to explore cosmopolitan Istanbul, marvel at Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes, or relax on the Turquoise Coast, Turkey has something to delight every type of traveler. As Turkey specialists, we highly recommend adding these remarkable destinations to your travel bucket list. Let us create your dream custom Turkey tour to see the very best of this captivating country.
