When it comes to the top tourist destinations in the world, Turkey is not topping any lists. But it sure should be. This country is jam packed with amazing things to see and experience. Some of the oldest civilizations in the world held residence here and certain cities feature prominently in the bible. Ancient ruins and natural wonders fill the many different landscapes. Turkey has so much to offer that I guarantee that the perfect vacation for everyone exists in Turkey. Whether you like relaxing on the beach, exploring major cities, enjoying fresh mountain air, skiing or learning the history of ancient civilizations, Turkey can provide.
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Here are the top 10 Best cities in Turkey to visit and why we love them!
10- Bursa
The first capital city of the Ottoman Empire, it’s not called Green Bursa for nothing. Surrounded by forest and Uludag Mountain, Bursa has something to offer in every season. Skiing in the winter and gorgeous views of nature in the summer and fall, plus a vibrant city brimming with history and culture. The Green Mosque with its stunning interior mosaics and the Green Mausoleum with generations of the first sultans buried there are a must-see. Make sure to try an Iskender Kebab, as it was invented here. Don’t miss a trip up to the top of Mount Uludag by cable car; the views are stunning no matter what season.
9- Gallipoli
During the First World War, a major battle took place on the Gallipoli peninsula in what was then known as the Ottoman Empire. The ANZAC forces landed on April 25th with the goal of obtaining control of the waterway up through Istanbul so that they could ferry supplies to their allies in Russia. However, the Ottoman Empire was able to hold off the ANZAC forces but not before suffering many casualties on both sides. Since the battle in 1915, Turkey has built memorials and burial sites to all of the fallen soldiers. Tours of the battlefields and memorials are given to tell the history and pay respects. The landscape is eerily beautiful and the memorials are extremely moving despite the time lapse. It is definitely worth a stop to see and learn about the men that laid down their lives.
8- Bodrum
This resort town is known for its nightlife and club scene. Travelers can relax on the beach during the day and party all night. The city is split into two sections by its castle. The west side holds the upscale resorts and the east side is home to the clubs and little stretch of beach. Ferries to the Greek island of Kos are available from here. There are also scuba diving and snorkeling outings from here as well. One of the most famous clubs in Turkey resides in Bodrum, Halikarnas. It can host more than 5,000 clubbers and people come to Bodrum specifically to go there. So if you love good nightlife, Bodrum should be high on your list.
7- Trabzon
If you like fresh alpine air, then Trabzon is the place fore you. Positioned right on the Black Sea, the city has been the main center for trade, linking the east and the west. Due to this, the city has seen many different rulers through the years and has a lot of fascinating history that can be seen in the architecture and museums. Don’t miss the nearby picturesque village of Uzungol and white water rafting Ayder. Trabzon is the perfect destination for nature lovers and travelers looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of a city.
6- Fethiye
Fethiye is one of the must see beach towns in Turkey. Its main beach, Oludeniz, has become quite famous due to its beauty and many instagramable photo ops. The beach has lots of water sports available and is quite famous for its paragliding opportunities. Fethiye is also the starting point for many of the Blue Cruises that are famous in this area. The standard is a 4-day and 3-night cruise from Fethiye to Olympos. The boats stop at caves and beaches that are only accessible from the water. It’s a fun and beautiful way to see the coast.
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5- Antalya
This is arguably Turkey’s most popular beach destination, which also happens to be packed with history. Antalya boasts two beaches, a lively nightlife scene, ancient Roman ruins, a beautiful harbor and a visually stunning waterfall. With all that it has to offer, there is certainly something to entertain everyone. Lara and Konyaalti Beach split Antalya’s coastline, which is gorgeously framed by snow capped mountains. Sun beds are available to rent from the many different restaurants and bars lining the beaches. Take a walk a bit out of the main town to see Hadrian’s Gate and the cobble stone walkways that lead down to Antalya’s bustling harbor. From there you can take a boat trip out for a few hours and visit the nearby Duden waterfall. Day trips are also available to the nearby ruins of Perge and Aspendos.
4- Ephesus
Once one of the grandest cities of ancient Rome, and the proud home to the Temple of Artemis (one of the seven ancient wonders of the world), Ephesus is one of the most popular destinations in Turkey. People flock here not only to see what remains of the original wonder, but also to see the fabled last residence and burial tomb of the Virgin Mary. Ephesus is one of the best preserved ancient cities in the world and visitors can really get a feel for what life was like back then.
3- Pamukkale – Best Cities in Turkey
Pamukkale is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Turkey containing the ancient city of Hierapolis. However, the ancient ruins are not what draw the enormous number of crowds. The site is also home to a thermal hot spring that has created something of a phenomenon. Over the years, the calcium deposits have built up, creating what looks like a giant cloud sitting on a hill. The Turkish people have deemed it the “Cotton Castle.” The step like travertines are filled with warm water that travelers can soak in after taking a tour of the ancient city. There is also a larger pool that is open for swimming named Cleopatra’s Pool. It was named after the Egyptian Empress when she supposedly visited and claimed that the waters helped her retain her youth!
2- Cappadocia – Best Cities in Turkey
Cappadocia is one of the most popular destinations in the world right now, thanks to the hot air balloon rides at sunrise that float over the fairy chimney rock formations. That is undoubtedly the must do of Cappadocia, but if you can’t, you can also get some great photos by waking up early and having breakfast as the balloons fly overhead. The landscape has been inhabited for thousands of years and previous civilizations built into the rocks, using them as shelter. As a result, hundreds of monasteries, houses and underground cities exist here for travelers to explore, carved right into the rocks! The entire city of Cappadocia is so unique, that it is definitely a must see if you come to Turkey.
1- Istanbul – Best Cities in Turkey
You absolutely cannot come to Turkey without visiting Istanbul. This city has been a major hub of civilization for hundreds of years and is overflowing with history and culture. The Old City, or Sultanahmet, holds site after site of must see destinations. The Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar are all within a two-mile radius of each other. All of them contain amazing historical significance and are well worth the visit. Travelers also like to enjoy a cruise down the infamous Bosphorus Straight that splits the city into two continents. With as many empires, religions and cultures that this city has known, there’s sure to be something of significance to people from all walks of life.
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