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Turkey
Europe
Visit Turkey
Turkey is a captivating country that bridges two continents, Europe and Asia, offering a stunning blend of cultures, history, and landscapes. As you plan your visit, prepare to be enthralled by its rich tapestry of ancient ruins, vibrant bazaars, and breathtaking natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the lunar-like landscapes of Cappadocia, Turkey promises an unforgettable journey.
Begin your adventure in Istanbul, a city that straddles the Bosphorus Strait and serves as a living museum of Byzantine, Ottoman, and modern Turkish history. The iconic Hagia Sophia, with its massive dome and Christian mosaics, tells stories of its past as a church, mosque, and now a museum. Nearby, the Blue Mosque astounds with its six minarets and sweeping architecture, while the Topkapi Palace offers a glimpse into the opulent lives of Ottoman sultans. Don't miss the chance to lose yourself in the Grand Bazaar, a sprawling market with over 4,000 shops selling everything from spices to intricate carpets.
Venture beyond Istanbul to experience Turkey's diverse regions. In Central Anatolia, Cappadocia fascinates visitors with its fairy-tale scenery of towering rock formations and ancient cave dwellings. Opt for a hot air balloon ride at dawn for a magical view of the valleys and "fairy chimneys." To the southwest, the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts boast pristine beaches, ancient cities like Ephesus, and the picturesque terraces of Pamukkale, a natural mineral bath that has been used since Roman times.
Turkey's culinary offerings are as diverse as its landscape, with dishes that are a feast for the senses. Sample kebabs, mezes, and sweet baklava. Each region offers its own specialties, influenced by both Asian and European traditions. Whether you're exploring bustling city streets or quiet mountain paths, the warmth and hospitality of the Turkish people are sure to make your visit a memorable one. With its endless variety, Turkey offers something for every traveler, from history enthusiasts and nature lovers to foodies and culture seekers.
Find your Next Adventure in Turkey
Explore Turkey
Iconic Landmarks
Hagia Sophia
- Originally built as a cathedral, Hagia Sophia in Istanbul has stood as a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture since 537 AD, later converted into a mosque and now serving as a museum.
Topkapi Palace
- Overlooking the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul, this opulent palace complex was the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for approximately 400 years.
Pamukkale
- Known as "Cotton Castle" in Turkish, Pamukkale is famous for its surreal, white terraces of mineral-rich thermal waters formed by calcite deposits.
Mount Nemrut
- This UNESCO World Heritage Site is notable for its summit where large statues of ancient gods and kings are erected, dating back to the 1st century BC in the Kingdom of Commagene.
Ephesus
- An ancient city located in Selçuk, Ephesus is one of the greatest preserved Roman cities in the Mediterranean region, renowned for its massive theater and the Library of Celsus.
Cappadocia
- Famous for its unique geological features called fairy chimneys, Cappadocia is a historical region in Central Anatolia, also known for its distinctive rock-cut churches and underground cities.
Cultural Experiences
Whirling Dervishes Ceremony
Experience the spiritual Sufi practice of whirling, a form of physically active meditation that originated among Sufis, which is still practiced by the Dervishes of the Mevlevi order.
Turkish Tea and Coffee Culture
Delight in the traditional Turkish tea served in tulip-shaped glasses or savor the unique taste of Turkish coffee, brewed over low heat and often served with a piece of Turkish delight.
Turkish Baths (Hamams)
Relax and rejuvenate in a traditional Turkish bath, where you can enjoy steam baths, exfoliating scrubs, and massages in historic and beautifully tiled settings.
Grand Bazaar Shopping
Explore one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, where you can shop for everything from spices and jewelry to carpets and ceramics in a bustling, vibrant atmosphere.
Turkish Night Shows
Attend a Turkish night show to enjoy traditional music and dance performances, including belly dancing, in a festive setting often accompanied by a traditional Turkish meal.
Visit to a Turkish Carpet Workshop
Learn about the ancient art of Turkish carpet weaving by visiting a workshop, where artisans craft intricate designs using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
Outdoor Adventures
Hot Air Ballooning in Cappadocia
Float over ancient volcanic landscapes dotted with fairy chimneys and expansive cave dwellings at sunrise.
Paragliding in Ölüdeniz
Experience the thrill of flying as you soar over the stunning blue lagoon and sandy beaches of one of Turkey's most picturesque spots.
Hiking the Lycian Way
Trek along this scenic 540-km trail that offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coast and ancient ruins.
Sea Kayaking over the Sunken City of Kekova
Paddle over submerged ruins in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean, exploring the ancient sunken city of Kekova.
Mountaineering in Mount Ararat
Embark on a challenging climb to the summit of Turkey's highest peak, where it is said that Noah's Ark came to rest.
Diving in Kaş
Dive into the underwater wonders of the Mediterranean, exploring ancient shipwrecks and vibrant marine life in the clear waters off the coast of Kaş.
Off the Beaten Path
Ani Ruins
- Explore the haunting beauty of this medieval Armenian city, now an eerie, abandoned site with churches, mosques, and palatial buildings near the Armenia-Turkey border.
Amasra
- A charming coastal town on the Black Sea, featuring stunning beaches, a quaint town center, and ancient ruins, perfect for a peaceful getaway.
Lake Van
- Visit this massive, high-altitude soda lake in eastern Turkey, known for its unique saline waters and the historic Akdamar Island with its ancient Armenian cathedral.
Bozcaada
- An idyllic Aegean island with beautiful vineyards, pristine beaches, and a lovely Greek village atmosphere, largely untouched by mass tourism.
Kars
- A city with a rich blend of Turkish and Russian architectural styles, offering access to the nearby Ani Ruins and excellent bird watching in the Kuyucuk Lake Wildlife Reserve.
Mount Nemrut
- Discover this stunning high mountain peak in southeastern Turkey, famous for its massive statues and tomb-sanctuary dedicated to King Antiochus I of Commagene.
Turkey Fun Facts
- Turkey is the world's largest producer of hazelnuts.
- Istanbul is the only city in the world that straddles two continents: Europe and Asia.
- The original name of the city of Istanbul was Byzantium, later changed to Constantinople before it became Istanbul.
- The famous Trojan War took place in western Turkey, around the site where the Trojan horse rests today.
- Santa Claus, also known as St. Nicholas, was born in Patara, Turkey.
- The first ever Christian church was built in Antioch, Turkey.
- Two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World were located in Turkey: the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus.
- Turkey has one of the world’s oldest and biggest malls, the Grand Bazaar, which dates back to 1455.
- The national sport of Turkey is oil wrestling, which dates back to the Ottoman Empire.
- Turkey introduced tulips to the world, and the flowers were exported to the Netherlands where they became widely popular.
Featured Picture Gallery
Istanbul's Famous Maiden's Tower Started Construction in 1110 A.D.
The Galata Tower was Built as the Highest Watchtower of the Walls of Galata
The Hagia Sophia Mosque was Completed in 1664 and is Now a Museum