Tourism in Turkey

Turkey is one of the most famous countries in the world and is a traveler's delight. Officially known as the Republic of Turkey, situated on the border of Europe and Asia, it is encircled by Bulgaria in the northwest, Iraq and Syria in the South, Greece in the west, and Iran and Armenia in the east. Turkey has an influence of Christianism from the European West and an archive of Islamic Middle East impact. Turkey illustrates a western side and modern culture that exists an esoteric and exotic side that is hidden from the world. From the three sides, Turkey is enveloped beautifully by the Mediterranean sea in the South, the Aegean sea in the West, and the Black sea in the North.

One of the most prominent reasons to travel to Turkey is this country holds 16 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in which the Romans, The Byzantines, and the Ottomans played a big role. Turkey tourism elegantly flaunts a varied variety of archaic aura which lures tourists from across the world. Turkey is no less than a heaven for art and history lovers with plenty of ancient museums, artistic monuments, historic Roman and Ottoman wonders, white sand beaches, and pine-covered forests filled with warm hues. The capital city Ankara, Istanbul, Cappadocia, Izmir, and Antalya are some of the most significant cities of this beautiful country. You can head toward one of the artistically pleasing Hagia Sophia Mosques in Istanbul which is full of history and artistic vibes. The Topkapi Palace reflects the lavish Ottoman culture. The historic city of Antalya and Izmir shows the culture and Byzantine imprints.

Turkey Tourism has so much to offer for every kind of tourist. Apart from its classical wonders, adventure junkies can enjoy themselves with a variety of adventure sports on Turkey tour packages. Snorkeling, Kayaking, Canoeing, Scuba Diving, and Windsurfing are some of the popular water sports on the beaches of Turkey. Whereas, one can enjoy a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia with plenty of colorful balloons shimmering in the sky. The green landscapes and pristine white terrains of Pamukkale are worth a visit. The Ölüdeniz beach and Babadag mountain are also on the list of popular nature winders in Turkey.

Istanbul- Where East Meets the West

After arriving in Turkey if you are getting confused about where to start your exploring in Turkey then head straight to Istanbul- the largest city in Turkey. Turkey has situated on both sides of the Bosphorus and lies both in Asia and Europe.

Turkey is a city where the east meets the west and the charm of Istanbul can be easily seen with the minarets, buzzing markets, lively nightlife, gorgeous mosques, and lavish palaces. This Turkish city was a hot point and witnessed some of the greatest empires of history like the Romans, the Greeks, the Byzantium, and the Ottomans.

The architecture of Istanbul played a big role in boosting Turkey tourism with its eye-catching attractions. The gardens of Istanbul like Emirgan and Gulhane when the season of Tulips starts to bloom. The Grand Bazaar is the most famous market not only in Turkey but across the globe where shoppers can go crazy. Some of the best things to do in Istanbul are as follows:

Hagia Sophia- Hagia Sophia is one of the most beautiful mosques in the world and is the finest example of Byzantine architecture. This is one of the main tourist attractions in Turkey that pulls no. of tourists throughout the year.

Topkapi Palace- This lavish palace serves as the main residence of the Ottoman empire for nearly 400 years. There are several halls, courtyards, rooms, and chambers that are open to the public.

Sultan Ahmed Mosque- The Sultan Ahmed Mosque also known as the “Blue Mosque” is situated on the right opposite the Hagia Sophia. This mosque was built by Sultan Ahmed in 1616 and is famous for its breathtaking architecture.

Bosphorus Strait- The Bosphorous Strait divides Asia and Europe and Turkey by lying between them. A cruise in the Bosphorous Strait will surely leave you spellbinding.

Basilica Cistern- Basilica Cistern was built by the Justinian in 532 as a major water supplier to the Palace. The Basilica Cistern is built underneath the Stoa Basilica and is famous for its unmatchable architecture.

Ankara- The Capital City of Turkey

The capital city and the second largest city of Turkey- Ankara is famous for being the “Anchor of Turkey”. Ankara is settled in the Anatolian region of Turkey and is known to be the administrative center of Turkey. Ankara is home to many Roman and Ottoman antiques that are scattered across the city. Ankara reflects the modern and historical world on the global level through its various attractions. Ankara forms the perfect destination for travelers seeking dreamy exploration trips with endless cultural and monumental sites. Ankara is a beautiful place where you can unwind yourself with nature at green parks and open spaces along with many elegant mosques, museums, and cultural centers. Ankara was once known as Angora which was then famous for its Angora wool which is shorn from Angora goats, Angora cats, and Angora rabbits. For doner kebabs, muscat grapes, honey, and pears, Ankara is also a well-known place. There are some other attractions of Ankara which you shouldn’t miss:

Ankara Castle- The Ankara Castle dates back to the 7th century and is a historical site and one of Turkey’s oldest forts. This castle was one of the main forts during the days of the Ottoman, Seljuk, Roman, and byzantine empires.

Haci Bayram Mosque- On your travel to Turkey embarkment don’t forget to visit the Haci Bayram Mosque in Ankara. This mosque is also a mausoleum to one of the famous Turkish poet Sufi Haci Bayram Veli.

Antikabir- Mustafa Kamal Ataturk, the father of the modern Turkish republic, rests in Antikabir. The Peacock Park, the Hall of Honor, Monument Block, and Aslani Yol are some major parts to explore here.

Kecioren Falls- The Kecioren Falls is an artificial waterfall that is situated in Kalaba in the Kecioren metropolitan. This waterfall is surrounded by many pools and fountains.

Cappadocia- The Heartland of Turkey

Cappadocia is situated in the middle of Turkey and is a world-famous tourist destination. Cappadocia is also known as the “Fairytale City” due to its beautiful settings and beehive-type cliffs. On your Turkey tour packages, don’t miss visiting this city which appears to be a Utopian world. There are many underground cities nestled underneath the hilly terrains of Cappadocia which counts as many as 36 cities. Hot balloon rides at sunrise are the top most things to do in Cappadocia. The Goreme Open Air Museum is a wonderful UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to hidden exotic frescoes and churches. During the time of invades, many Christian people use to hide here. Experience the living of the old age world by living in unique cave hotels. Cappadocia refers to a region that has undertaken several cities like Urgup, Goreme, Uchisar, and Ortahisar. Cappadocia has hiking trails which can be a sure-shot adventure for adventure enthusiasts.

Fairy Chimneys- Due to the erosion of volcanic soft rock, these Fairy Chimneys were formed. These unique rock formations in the Cappadocia region are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Goreme Open Air Museum- Goreme Open Air Museum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a cluster of Churches and frescoes carved under hills. Goreme Open Air Museum is situated in the Nevesehir region of Cappadocia.

Uchisar Castle- Uchisar Castle is most famous for its panoramic view and is situated on the highest point in the Cappadocia region. The Uchisar Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that overlooks the Goreme and Fairy Chimneys.

Hot Air Balloon in Cappadocia- For a hot air balloon ride, Cappadocia in Turkey is a world-famous place. Witness the charming sunset and sunrise from above the Cappadocia landscape and capture the moments that you will cherish for life.

Antalya- Riviera Town in Turkey

One of the most modern and oldest cities in Turkey is Antalya which is also known as the “Turkish Riviera Town”. Antalya is encircled by the Tauras mountains and situated in the southwest region. On your Turkey tour packages, Antalya is a romantic city for couples and families can also enjoy their trips along with the Turquoise coast. Antalya is a melting pot of traditional and contemporary. The old area of the city situated at the heart of the city is known as ‘Kaleiçi’. One can stay in the old Ottoman houses here which are now restored and full of modern amenities. Antalya has some rugged places and monuments as this city has been a part of the Ottoman, Greek, Roman, and Byzantine Empires. Antalya offers a zestful nightlife and ‘Kaleiçi’ is the main tourist attraction as it has several Ottoman houses and modern amenities.

Aspendos- Aspendos is located close to Antalya and is a famous historic attraction that was once a Greco-Roman city in Pamphylia. Roman Theatre is the most famous attraction in Aspendos.

Kaleiçi- It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey and has become an important city center. The Hadrian Gate, Hidirlik Tower, and Suna-Inan Kirac Kaleiçi Museum are the highlights of this province.

Termessos- Termessos is situated in the Gulluk Dagi National Park northwest of Antalya which is also called Eagle’s Nest. Termessos is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in Turkey.

Konyaalti Beach- Konyaalti Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Antalya famous for its nightlife. It is one of the most picturesque destinations in turkey famous for water sports.

Izmir- The Aegean Pearl

Izmir is a modern metropolitan situated along the Agean sea which is best known for its pristine beaches and watersports. After Athen in Greece, Izmir is the second largest urban accumulation. Izmir has a long and important history because this city was established by the Greeks, and controlled by the Romans, Alexander the Great restored it and later the Ottomans included it in their empire. Izmir was previously known as Smyrna and Konak Square is the main center of the city. In the world of modernity and traditions, Izmir is a gateway, and considering its historical value there are no such historic monuments in the cities due to a great fire in 1920. On your journey of travel to Turkey, Clock Tower is the best-known site, and this city experiences a Mediterranean site.

Izmir Clock Tower- Situated in Konak Square, Izmir clock Tower is one of the classical and significant clock towers. This tower stands next to the sea and bazaar and is a classic example of Ottoman architecture.

Agora Open Air Museum- The Agora Open Air Museum also known as the Agora of Smyrna caters to the ruins of ancient Roman and Greek marketplace. There are three of the four main gates, waterways, a basement, Corinthian columns, and several classical arches are the remains in Angora.

Konak Square- Konak Square is also known as Konak Meydani which is a busy public square in the center of Izmir. Konak Square is designed by the renowned Gustav Eiffel, this square is popular for shops, cafes, buildings, and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit Turkey

There are certain seasons and months which will suit you perfectly when you are planning your Turkey trip. These are as follows:

Spring Season (From April to June)- From April to June is the best time to visit Turkey as the country welcomes the Spring season. Turkey is considered a year-round destination due to its varied geographical terrains and the places you want to visit. For outdoor adventure activities like exploring archaeological sites, trekking, and cycling, April to June is the best time.
Autumn Season (From late October to November)- From late October to November, the temperature starts to get a little cold. You can visit the Mediterranean and Agean coasts of Turkey with its mild winters and mild summers season.

Nightlife in Turkey

If you are a party owl and want to enjoy the best nightlife then Turkish nightlife is one of the most exciting ones in entire Europe. Depending on your area of visit, the country offers the most trendy and cosmopolitan places. For the night owls, the bars, clubs, and taverns make up for them. In case you are in one of the big cities like Istanbul, Antalya, Izmir, and Ankara then you will find that the younger generation is more into glinting dance clubs and chic jazz bars. Along the banks of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, you will find such bars lined to cherish the beautiful sunset. Don’t miss “Belly Dancing” which is a tradition in Turkey.

Shopping in Turkey

With the resonant and bustling markets of Turkey, shopping is much more fun. You can buy jewelry, musical instruments, local handicrafts, and leather apparel as souvenirs from local shops. Copperware textiles, brass, ceramics, embroideries, Turkish carpets, rugs, and kilims are other significant products that you can buy. Being packed with plenty of boutiques and big-label brands, Istanbul is a major shopping hub. Show your bargaining skill here at the markets.