Turkey is a cultural melting pot of the ancient and modern worlds, which makes sense given its location at the intersection of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The outcome of a stunning collision of East and West is nothing more than an enormous mashup of religion, culture, and history.
A sensory assault awaits you in the vast valleys and bazaars filled with the aroma of incense! In addition to experiencing cultural shock, you'll fit right in with the hectic flurry of activities.
1. Mount Ararat
Any backpacker traveling through Turkey should make a trip to Mount Ararat a priority.
If there's one reason you may recognize the mountain, it's because Noah and his animal ark are said to have set foot on it following the great deluge in biblical times.
The mountain is located on the border between Iran and Armenia in the east of the nation. The pleasant beaches and bustling cities that most people associate with Turkey are in sharp contrast to the mountains that are always covered in snow.
It consists of two dormant volcanoes on its tops. For the sports fans, making it to the peak of one of the hills is worth it and one will do it once in a lifetime.
2. Hagia Sophia, Istanbul
One of the highlights of Istanbul should be the Hagia Sophia, hidden away in the historic Sultanahmet District of Istanbul.
Apart from its charm, its history is pretty tangled. Originally erected as a Byzantine cathedral in the mid-fourth century, the building was de-linked from the Byzantines and became a mosque under Ottoman dominion. In the 1930s, it was converted into a museum, and very recently in 2020 it became a mosque again.
It is now accessible to both religious and secular visitors, who are welcome to take in its opulent golden dome, stained-glass windows, and intricately hand-mosaic interiors. Additionally, be sure to view the Sultan's graves in the mosque as well as the Norse inscriptions.
3. Cappadocia
Cappadocia, a place that you should never miss when planning a trip to Istanbul, has attracted millions of tourists with its strange land, stone valleys, and multi-colored hot air balloons in the sky.
This light tan area, elevated on the Anatolia Plateau, contains striking cave settlements with building-sized churches and monasteries carved inside a soft volcanic stone. And there are slender rock columns as well.
Cappadocia Balloon Festival, one of the famous festivals in Turkey, has been held yearly in July for three days since the year 2005.
The Lycian Way Trail
The Lycian Way is believed to be one of the most thrilling trekking paths that follows the trace of the old road of the ancient people- the Lycians.
This ancient population flourished in the fifth century, living in about 35 cities in the Lycian region (modern-day Turkey).
If you’re wondering about how long is the world's most popular hiking trail? The trail stretches 335 miles down the southern coast. That amounts to an incredible 142 hours of hiking overall!
The drive through the Butterfly Valley, a cove with enormous cliffs towering from the deep blue ocean below, was the most breathtaking highlight. This location is highly recommended.
5. Ishak Pasha Palace
Ishak Pasha Palace is one of Turkey's lesser-known sights, and we heartily recommend visiting it.
A remarkable preservation of an Ottoman Empire palace which is located in eastern Turkey not far north of the borders with Armenia and Iran.
This palace truly has withstood the test and passing of time. This lavish building which rests on a mountain whose view is that of Dogubeyazit depicts the historical background of this region with the incorporation of architecture from Ottoman, Seljuq, Persian as well as Armenian empires.
6. The Pamukkale Travertines
Located in the Büyük Menderes Valley, the Pools of Pamukkale, or the “Cotton Castle” as called by the natives is a series of natural hot springs and pools.
One of the most popular natural thermal baths in the area, the terraced pools created by the spring's flowing water over millennia are largely recognized for their purported therapeutic benefits.
One of the oldest thermal baths in the world, Hierapolis, is sometimes disregarded while the travertines attract large throngs of visitors. It is well-known for its Antique Pool, which is said to have been Cleopatra's bath.
The Temple of Apollo, the remnants of which now rest calmly beneath the sea, previously housed this pool. It is easy to understand why this natural phenomenon is among Turkey's top ten tourist destinations.
7. Akdamar Island, Lake Van
Experience a portion of Turkey's stunning east sans the throngs of people by traveling to Akdamar Island.
Akdamar Island is situated in the center of Lake Van, the largest lake in Turkey, and is framed by Mount Ararat. Blue may not be the color associated with all these past societies; however, it is the main color used to encircle the entire island.
Reaching the island, accessible only by ferry, there is an Armenian St. Cross Church built in the tenth century that has fallen into disrepair and ruin. You will uncover the ruins of a convent that was associated with the church during your perambulations.
Ready for a history lesson? We've got you covered! The church is now a well-run museum with carvings inside that show biblical scenes of David and Goliath and Adam and Eve.
8. Blue Lagoon, Olüdeniz
Among the top ten destinations in Turkey for daring tourists is Ölüdeniz Blue Lagoon.
It is well-known for its crystal-clear blue seas and little sandbar and is located on Turkey's southern coast along the historic Lycian Way Trail.
Kayaköy is a short walk away; it's the remains of an Ottoman settlement that was once bustling, interspersed with abandoned stone houses.
The Ölüdeniz Beach is also a part of the Ölüdeniz National Park, and as such, it is necessary to pay a small admission fee. Calm waves and warm water beaches? In our opinion, the rather insignificant cost is worth it!
Ephesus; Ancient City, Selcuk
One of the places in the world that possesses both a sense of history as well as striking natural beauty, is the Ancient City of Ephesus.
As believed in ancient times, Ephesus was the most celebrated City of Greece according to its prominence and bustling northernmost port of the Mediterranean trade.
10. Koprulu Canyon National Park
If you're interested in outdoor activities, be sure to put the Koprulu Canyon at the top of your schedule when visiting Turkey!
Situated in the province of Antalya, the Koprulu Canyon National Park is situated by the Kopru River. This is one of the most impressive canyons ever to exist.
The blue water beneath the craggy rocks rises at an almost 90-degree angle, leaving only the most tenacious pine, cedar, and cypress trees to thrive in between the fissures.
Apply a layer of sunscreen and go through the small gorge by kayaking or white water rafting during the day.
If you're not into water activities, the National Park is a great place for enthusiastic hikers. They can follow designated paths through stunning Mediterranean scenery and historic ruins.
11. The Grand Bazaar, Istanbul
The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is a cultural experience unto itself. Known as one of the biggest covered markets globally, this vibrant marketplace weaves through more than sixty lanes and alleyways, offering a wide range of goods for sale. It compensates for a fantastic weekend spent in Istanbul.
12. Alacati, Izmir
The little village of Alacati is one of the most picturesque spots in Turkey, although it is still not well recognized.
The hip town is well-known to wine and food enthusiasts for its mills, cobblestone streets, and wayside cafes and boutiques.
13. Kars
Because of its high altitude and bitterly cold winters, Kars is referred to as Turkey's winter wonderland.
The primary resort in the region, Sarikamis, is located inside the Allahuekber Mountains. In addition to offering winter activities, the city is the site of a historic Armenian city's ruins.
14. The Duden Waterfalls, Antalya
The coastline of Duden Waterfalls is empty near Antalya International Airport. Water tumbles down Mount Taurus into the sea, amidst luxuriant Mediterranean vegetation.
When the sun sets, take a picnic and camp in the protected park to witness the thunderous rush of the waterfall. This one truly is successful!
15. The Ancient God Statues, Mount Nemrut
Mount Nemrut, in southeast Turkey, is most known for the enormous, randomly carved stone heads that rest on its peaks.
Without the aid of contemporary gear, we can't be too certain how they got there. Visit this mountain on a guided tour instead of trying to save the day.
16. Patara Beach
Patara is by no means a hidden gem despite being the longest beach in Turkey. There is plenty of space for everyone, thus it is almost ever called busy.
If you visit at the appropriate moment, you may be able to see the moon rise and set simultaneously from the top of a specific dune.
Conclusion
Explore the pristine Aegean Sea by boat, trek the renowned Lycian Way, and visit Istanbul's Hagia Sofia to admire the building's magnificent artwork and architecture.
The Pools of Pamukkale have to be the top pick on this list. These white travertine terraces have a seductive quality that will make you think you've traveled through time and space.
Every tourist, regardless of age, may find something to enjoy in Turkey's cultural mixing pot of the East and the West.
Why do you wait? Write down your itinerary for Turkey and get to work!
