Visit these top 10 amazing places for the perfect holiday in Turkey
For the perfect blend of culture, history and nature this summer a holiday in Turkey could be the ideal vacation.
Exotic Turkey is home to some of the most unique and fascinating scenery in the world, as well as 11 UNESCO world heritage sites that hold some incredible ancient historical treasures. From buzzing Istanbul – a true crossroads of East and West, to the sparkling Aegean coast, to the dramatic, surreal landscapes of Cappadocia and Pamukkale, visiting Turkey is bound to be one exciting trip the hardest part will be deciding where to start!
To help here is my take on the most amazing places to see.
Istanbul
Turkey’s exotic capital, Istanbul, is often referred to as one of the world’s greatest cities with so much history and culture to explore. Istanbul is former capital of two empires and a city with a skyline of domes and minarets that straddles both Europe and Asia. With Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, cruising the Bosphorus and haggling in the grand bazaar, there is so much to explore in Istanbul which makes it the perfect place to start your holiday in Turkey.
Ephesus
You can discover so many historical gems on a holiday in Turkey including Ephesus. With the exemption of Pompeii, Ephesus is the second largest and best preserved ancient city in the Mediterranean, once the wealthy capital of Roman Asia.
Pamukkale
This otherworldly looking sight is the result of a natural phenomenon that has created these stunning white terraces and travertines (pools) saturated with dissolved calcium bicarbonate. Nearby are also impressive ruins of the ancient city of Hierapolis.
Bodrum
The beautiful rocky Bodrum Peninsula is arguably Turkey’s most popular destinations for beach holidays. From pretty, white washed Bodrum town to the many gorgeous beaches out on the peninsula, to the hippest resorts and night spots, Bodrum offers something for everyone.
Cappadocia
The unique landscape of Cappadocia holds rock cut churches, cave houses and fairy tale like scenery. Taking in this surreal landscape from a hot air balloon has to be a bucket list worthy adventure.
Patara
Turkey is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. For the perfect holiday in Turkey you could combine a beach break with visiting ancient ruins all in one destination! Patara is Turkey’s longest and most beautiful beach which is near the ancient Lycian city of Patara so beach bums and history buffs are all kept happy and Patara is great for kids and families too.
Nemrut Dagi
These bizarre stone heads adorn a remote mountain top in the east of the country, the outlandish legacy of a king trying to prove his faith to the gods and ensure himself eternal life.
Konya
The Turkish town of Konya is also a fascinating place to visit on a holiday to Turkey. Konya is a place of pilgrimage for Muslims and the home of the Whirling Dervishes – an essential and unique Turkish experience.
KayaKoy
Kayakoy is a ghost village of more than 2000 ruined cottages and a basilica that were all abandoned in 1923 when the Anatolian-Greek population was relocated. Another quirky, unique, amazing experience waiting to be explored!
Olympos
Olympos is a unique destination where you can explore the over grown ruins of the historic Lycian site in an idyllic beach side location. There’s a bit of a laid back, hippiesque scene here, you can do yoga and stay in a cute tree house and feel the days slip away in this special place.
Have you been to Turkey? Where was your favourite destination?
3 comments
I love traveling so much. I have traveled so many countries so far. But, haven’t explored Turkey as yet. The list which you have published here will benefit travelers all around the world.
Thanks for sharing the top destinations to visit in Turkey. 🙂
Thanks, glad you liked the post and yes, there are so many amazing things to see in Turkey. I hope you get to visit soon 🙂
The views are breathtaking !!