Best Things to Do in Turkey

Arguably the most spectacular example of Byzantine architecture, Hagia Sophia has been a cathedral, a mosque, and today is a museum and one of Istanbul's biggest attractions. Explore its vast interior, admiring the breathtaking domed ceiling, intricate frescoes, and impressive marble designs. All visitors (non-Muslims included) are allowed to enter. Guided tour is available.

One of the top things to do in Turkey is visit Cappadocia to experience the hot air balloon. As the sun rises, witness the fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and rolling hills bathed in golden light from a unique aerial perspective. This bucket-list experience offers breathtaking views and is one of the most iconic ways to appreciate the natural beauty of Cappadocia.

Known For : Pamukkale Natural Park Travertines Hierapolis

Pamukkale is located in southwestern Turkey, in the Denizli Province. It is very famous for its travertines (hot water springs) which is a magical site with turquoise pools and snow-white cliffs. It is one of the most photogenic places in the world. Pamukkale, which means 'cotton castle' in Turkey, is a natural site with carbonate mineral deposits left behind by the flowing water of the hot springs. There are 17 hot springs in the area, known are known for their healing properties. Marvel at the surreal terraces of Pamukkale's calcium travertines and explore the ancient Hierapolis ruins nearby.

Best Time: September

10 Pamukalle Attractions

Ferry rides at the Bosphorous allow you to take a sneak into Asia’s Eminonu, Kabatas and Besiktas and return to the European soil of Turkey. It is a natural strait falling under the international waterways routes and is the narrowest spot that separates Asia and Europe in Turkey. During the ferry ride, you may witness the transformation in architecture and planning of cities between Europe and Asia. And while doing so, you may enjoy some delicious meals and drinks on the ferry to make up for a memorable experience!

Grand Bazaar of Istanbul is one of the oldest and largest markets in the world. The Bazaar encompasses 64 streets, 4000 shops, restaurants, and banks, making it almost its own little city. It is often considered to be among the very first shopping malls in the world. It can be reached through the Beyazıt-Kapalıçarşı tram station.

Cappadocia is home to several natural rock-cut caves that have been preserved over the years and turned into houses, churches and hotels. This out of the box experience of living in an authentic cave, with a cozy yet luxurious environment is only possible in Cappadocia. These suites are comfortable, lavish and equipped with all amenities. The cave suites set in the natural environment of the city, look magnificent and exude luxury.

Indulge in a delicious slice of San Sebastian cheesecake while enjoying stunning views of the Galata Tower. Numerous cafes and rooftop restaurants around the Galata area offer this delightful combination, allowing you to savor a sweet treat with a picturesque backdrop. Top places for eating the cheesecake are Viyana Kahvesi Galata, Sirinfirin Bakery and Milota.

Showcasing the presence of Greeks and Romans, the Ruins of Ephesus is another place you must visit on your trip to Turkey. The ancient city of Ephesus is located in the Aegean region alongside the coast of Lonia. Full of historical sites and ruins of temples and monuments from the Neolithic Age, Ephesus is home to one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, i.e. Temple of Artemis. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ephesus also houses the Gospel of John, one of the seven churches in Asia mentioned in the Book of Revelation.

Immerse yourself in the rich and diverse flavors of a traditional Turkish breakfast, known as "kahvaltı." It typically includes an array of fresh bread, olives, cheeses, tomatoes, cucumbers, honey, and jam, complemented by eggs, sausage (sucuk), and savory pastries (börek). Enjoy it with endless cups of Turkish tea in any cafe or restaurant.

Experience the traditional Turkish bath, or hammam, for a relaxing and cultural immersion. Hammams offer a unique blend of steam bathing, scrubbing, and massages in stunningly beautiful, historic bathhouses. Enjoy the tranquil ambiance, ornate tiles, and soothing rituals that have been a part of Turkish culture for centuries. A visit to a hammam is one of the must do things in Turkey.

Enjoying Turkish coffee in Istanbul is more than just a drink; it's a cultural ritual and a delightful experience. Visit traditional cafes or historic places like the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar, where you can savor Turkish coffee in an authentic setting filled with cultural ambiance. The most popular kind of Turkish coffee is ibrik or cezve coffee.

Situated in the volcanic zone of Hasan Mountain, Goreme National Partrok is a popular tourist attraction across the globe, primarily because of the limestone structures, or “Peri Bacalari” it possesses. These are a maze of tunnels carved out naturally from the limestone rocks present in the area and are believed to have been inhabited by ancient humans. Thus, the limestone formations of Goreme National Park showcase the perfect combination of human life and nature.

Hop on the nostalgic tram at Taksim Square to explore the heart of modern Istanbul. This historic tramway runs along Istiklal Avenue, offering a charming and scenic ride through one of the city’s busiest and most iconic streets. Enjoy the vibrant mix of shops, cafes, and historic buildings as you travel, capturing the dynamic spirit of Istanbul in a leisurely tram journey.

Indulge in the authentic experience of Turkish tea, or "çay," a staple of daily life in Turkey. Served in small, tulip-shaped glasses, Turkish tea is strong, aromatic, and traditionally enjoyed without milk. Whether in bustling tea gardens, cozy cafes, or at a local bazaar, sipping on this hot beverage is a must experience thing in Turkey.

Also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the Blue Mosque is one of the many beautiful mosques built by the Ottoman Empire in Turkey. Being one of the most popular tourist attractions of the city, the mosque has been functioning since the time it was built in 17th Century AD. On your trip to the place, you will be mesmerised by the hand-painted blue tiles externally adorning the domes and minarets. Just as much as the exteriors of Blue Mosque are alluring, the swirling blue interiors are equally magnificent.

Trying Turkish street food in Istanbul is a quintessential and delightful experience for tourists. Indulge in iconic street foods like simit, doner kebab, gözleme, kokoreç and traditional Turkish desserts such as baklava or künefe. Visit bustling markets like the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar, where you can find a plethora of street food stalls. You can also join a guided food tour.

Nargile bars, or hookah lounges, are an integral part of Turkish social culture. Enjoy the aromatic experience of smoking flavored tobacco through a water pipe while sipping Turkish tea or coffee. These bars provide a cozy, communal atmosphere perfect for relaxing and chatting with friends. Nargile bars are found throughout Turkey, especially in Istanbul.

The Whirling Dervish Ceremony, known as the Sema Ceremony, is an ancient spiritual practice originating from the Sufi order of Islam, particularly associated with the followers of Mevlana Rumi. During the ceremony, the Dervishes, clad in long white robes with conical hats symbolizing tombstones, perform a ritualistic dance. The Sema Ceremony is a profound spiritual experience for both participants and spectators, offering a glimpse into the mystical aspects of Sufism and the philosophy of Mevlana Rumi. Istanbul's Galata Mevlevi House and Konya's Mevlana Museum are notable places to witness this captivating ceremony.

Delve into the fascinating underground cities of Cappadocia, such as Derinkuyu and Kaymakli. These ancient, multi-level cities were carved out of soft volcanic rock and served as hiding places for early Christians and other communities. Explore the intricate network of tunnels, chambers, and storerooms, and marvel at the ingenuity and history embedded in these subterranean marvels.

Mount Nemrut, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a majestic mountain located in southeastern Turkey. It's renowned for its colossal statues and ancient stone sculptures dating back to the 1st century BC. Visiting Mount Nemrut offers not only a chance to marvel at the impressive ancient sculptures but also provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, especially during sunrise or sunset. The journey to the summit involves a hike, allowing travelers to witness these remarkable archaeological remnants in a breathtaking natural setting.

In what may be considered a true example of grandeur and opulence, visiting the Dolmabahçe Palace of Istanbul is the next thing you need to do on your next Turkey trip. Having been home to six Sultans, the Palace comprises a total of 285 rooms and four large salons. Overlooking a stunning view of the strait, the other attractions in the vicinity of the visually appealing architecture of Dolmabahçe Palace include the nearly 500 meters long façade and the 4,000-kilogram Bohemian glass chandelier!

Paragliding in Oludeniz will allow you to witness stunning views of the coastline, mountains, and the famous Blue Lagoon. The flights typically take off from Mount Babadag, 2000 meters above sea level. Usually, the minimum cost is 300 TL, which also goes up to 1600 TL. Kidrak beach, Butterfly valley, and Oludeniz Beach are famous for paragliding.

Koprulu Canyon is located in Manavgat, Antalya, surrounded by a national park of the same name. It is most famous for river rafting. There are several agencies offering a range of packages for rafting in the clear waters of the river Köprüçay. Most rafting tours offer pick-up, drop-off, and lunch and last between 7 and 24 hours, depending on the package chosen.

Isktiklal Caddessi or Istiklal Avenue is the busiest street in Istanbul filled with a long stretch of cafes, restaurants, shopping centres, bars, cinemas and galleries. Estimated to have been visited by over 3 million people on the weekends, it is the best way to experience the vibrant, hustling side of the city. Located in the heart of the city, the avenue houses so many recreational activities that it is a favourite place to visit by the residents of the city. Even a stroll along the avenue would fascinate you to the very end and leave you asking for more. The road stretches for 1.4 km from Taksim Square and finishes the Galata Tower, and a full day is needed to explore this crowded street.

Experience the rugged beauty of Cappadocia's unique terrain by riding an ATV bike through its valleys and hills. This adventurous activity allows you to explore off-the-beaten-path trails, traverse rocky landscapes, and discover hidden gems like secluded cave dwellings and panoramic viewpoints. An ATV tour is exhilarating to see Cappadocia’s natural wonders up close.

Visit Topkapi Palace in Istanbul to discover the opulent world of the Ottoman sultans. This magnificent palace complex, now a museum, features lavish courtyards, intricate tilework, and a rich collection of artifacts, including the famous Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker’s Diamond. Wander through the Harem, the private quarters of the sultans, and imagine the grandeur and intrigue of the Ottoman Empire. Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace are located in the same compound in Sultanahmet in Istanbul and can be visited together.

Savor the flavors of Turkey's wine industry by tasting local wines from regions like Cappadocia and Thrace. Visit vineyards and wineries to learn about traditional and modern winemaking techniques and enjoy wine tastings amidst stunning landscapes. Turkish wines, particularly those made from indigenous grape varieties, offer a unique and delightful addition to your culinary exploration of the country.

Hippodrome of Constantinople was originally developed by the Byzantines as a sports arena, where events such as chariot racing were conducted. Later on, during the Ottoman rule, the place was used for playing Cirit, an ancient Turkish game. While it is believed that there were multiple obelisks set up during the ancient times, the time has eroded most of the structures, with only one Egyptian obelisk existing in good condition. You may also visit other interesting places within the Hippodrome, such as the Serpent’s Column, the German Fountain, and the walled obelisk.

One of Turkey's oldest sites, the Ankara Castle is a historical fortification dating back to the 7th century. The castle overlooks the city from its peak and is often associated with Ottoman, Seljuk, Roman and Byzantine empires. One of the best things to do in Turkey, the castle embodies different architectural styles and is home to twenty pillars and two gateways. The streets leading to the castle are studded with old Ankarian houses.

The ancient city of Troy is one of those places in Turkey which is visited by both locals and tourists. Being nearly 5,000 years old, the city's ruins depict the presence of some of the greatest rulers of the ancient world. These include Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar, who invaded the city with the help of the Trojan Prince Aeneas. Built and demolished nearly nine times, the city ruins speak of the massacre during the historical Trojan War even today. Many such interesting facts can be learned on your trip to Troy.

The father of the modern Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, found his resting place at the Anitkabir, a mausoleum in Ankara. Standing tall on a hilltop, this mausoleum is elaborate and carved with intricate designs. The complex has many areas to explore, like the Hall of Honor, Peacock Park, Aslanlı Yol’, and Monument Block, among others. The mausoleum looks mesmerizing at night, with its well-lit walls and borders.

Explore the history of Turkey through the Demre Myra Kekova Tour, a private tour which takes you across different places in Turkey. The tour starts at Myra, the ancient city which withholds Roman amphitheatres and Lycian tombs. Then it moves on to Demre - known for its famous St. Nicholas church. Lastly, it stops at Kekova, a dreamy city which once had an island called Simena that sank due to earthquakes.

Starting at Fethiye and going till Antalya, the Lycian way is a 540 km long stretch of marked hiking trails amidst Turkey’s beautiful beaches, jungles and mountains. While it takes roughly 30 days and a decent trekking experience to complete the entire path, Lycian Way is split into many smaller route options for tourists with the limited time that offer the thrill and adventure of hiking, precious memories to take back home, and unforgettable views.

Translating to “Potbelly Hill”, Gobekli Tepe is a must-visit place for you if you are fond of architecture and history. Situated around 12 kilometers from Urfa city, this archaeological site is located in the Southeast Anatolia region of the country. The place was discovered by German archaeologist Klaus Schmidt, who believes that the site possesses the ruins of the world’s first temple! Even the ruins present here date back to nearly 11,000 years, around 5,000 years older than Stonehenge! With such an interesting site present in Turkey, you must visit the place during your trip.

Aqua Vega Aquarium is Turkey's longest shopping mall aquarium that houses nearly 12,000 sea creatures in thematic salt and freshwater tanks. Most of the magical creatures here, including sharks, are brought from all over the world's rivers and oceans and are only seen in documentaries. Some of the animals found here include sea turtles, crocodiles, alligators, and sharks, among other saltwater and freshwater sea animals.