Turkey is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Its strategic location between Europe and Asia has made it an important centre of trade, religion and empire over the millennia. As a result, Turkey boasts some of the most magnificent and historically significant cities in the world. In this article, we will explore the top cities to visit in Turkey for an unforgettable trip.
Istanbul
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No list of top cities in Turkey is complete without Istanbul. This sprawling metropolis straddling two continents is Turkey’s largest and most famous city. For almost 16 centuries Istanbul was the capital of two of the world’s greatest empires – the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. The legacy of this illustrious past can be seen in Istanbul’s wealth of architectural treasures including the magnificent Hagia Sophia and the iconic Blue Mosque.
Yet Istanbul is not just a living museum. The city boasts a dynamic cosmopolitan culture, vibrant nightlife and exciting arts scene. Wander through the Grand Bazaar, haggle for treasures at the spice market, relax at a hamam, or party until dawn – Istanbul offers an incredible diversity of experiences. It’s no wonder Istanbul continues to top lists of must-see destinations.
Cappadocia
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Cappadocia is unlike anywhere else on earth. This semi-arid region in Central Anatolia is characterised by its unique moon-like landscape dotted with tall, chimney-like rock formations known as fairy chimneys. For centuries, people carved houses, churches and even underground cities into the soft volcanic rock.
Cappadocia is a paradise for photography, hiking, and exploration. Popular activities include hot air ballooning over the surreal landscapes, exploring the fascinating underground cities, and visiting the painted cave churches with Byzantine frescoes. The local town of Göreme makes a great base to experience all that this region has to offer. With its cave hotels and restaurants, Göreme itself is part of the Cappadocian charm.
Ephesus
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The spectacular ruins of Ephesus transport you back to Roman times. Once a prosperous trading city and religious centre, Ephesus was considered the “first and greatest metropolis of Asia”. Today it is one of the best preserved Roman cities in the Mediterranean region. The site contains well-preserved landmarks including the imposing Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, and the Great Theatre which once hosted gladiatorial contests.
Ephesus is located near Selçuk, only a short distance from Izmir. After exploring this magnificent ancient city, you can head into Selçuk to visit the Basilica of St John and the Isa Bey Mosque. For a little indulgence, the nearby coastal town of Kuşadası offers beautiful beaches and resorts.
Antalya
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On the Mediterranean coast, the vibrant city of Antalya provides the perfect blend of ancient history and modern amenities. At its heart is the picturesque Old Town, Kaleiçi, with winding cobblestone streets flanked by beautifully restored Ottoman houses. The Old Town wraps around a Roman-era harbour with views of the dramatic cliffside Yivli Minare mosque.
Beyond the Old Town, Antalya has excellent museums, buzzing markets, a lively bar scene, and long sandy beaches. It’s also a great base for exploring the turquoise waters of the Turkish Riviera and remarkable ancient sites like Perge, Aspendos and Phaselis. With its sunny climate and mix of history, culture and natural beauty, it’s easy to see why Antalya is a favourite Turkish travel destination.
Şanlıurfa
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Şanlıurfa, often simply called Urfa, is a fascinating city in southeastern Turkey steeped in myth and legend. It is revered by Muslims as the birthplace of the prophet Abraham who is said to have been thrown into a fire here that miraculously turned into water.
Today ponds of sacred carp swim outside the medieval Urfa Castle and in the surrounding park known as the Pool of the Sacred Fish. In Urfa’s Old City, you can discover buzzing bazaars, the blue-tiled Rawdah Mosque, and Turkish coffeehouses redolent with the smoke of nargile. While in Urfa, don’t miss the chance to visit Göbekli Tepe, an 11,000 year-old temple site nearby that is shedding light on mankind’s transition to settlement and farming.
Trabzon
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On Turkey’s Black Sea coast, Trabzon is an underrated gem. This lively port city once played a major role in trade along the legendary Silk Road. Trabzon was also briefly the capital of the medieval Empire of Trebizond before being conquered by the Ottomans.
Remnants of Trabzon’s storied past can be seen in sites like the 13th century Ayasofya Church featuring exquisite Byzantine frescoes. The busy markets of Trabzon are the place to try delicious regional dishes like hamsi (fresh Black Sea anchovies), kuymak (fondue-like cheese), and kara lahana çorbası (cabbage soup). Trabzon is also the gateway to exploring the forests and mountains of the Black Sea region including the iconic Sümela Monastery.
Izmir
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As Turkey’s third largest city, Izmir is a progressive, cosmopolitan hub of culture. Known in ancient times as Smyrna, it was one of the most advanced cities in the Mediterranean and an important centre of trade. Today Izmir still boasts an entrepreneurial spirit paired with a thriving arts scene.
The palm-lined promenade known as Kordonboyu is perfect for strolling and soaking up waterfront views. The labyrinthine Kemeraltı bazaar area transports you back to Izmir’s days as a trading port. Izmir is also just a short distance away from Ephesus as well as the striking seaside Greco-Roman site of Pergamon. With its vibrant mix of old and new, Izmir deserves more time on any Turkish itinerary.
Side
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The small resort town of Side sits on a peninsula jutting into the Mediterranean. In ancient times, Side served as an important port for merchant ships. Today, the ruins of ancient Side are some of the most impressive in Turkey. The town’s Hellenistic and Roman monuments include the vast Roman amphitheatre, Greek temple columns, and a spectacular set of Roman baths.
Beyond the fascinating classical sites, Side charms with its pretty coastal scenery, sandy beaches, and friendly atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to relax on the Mediterranean coast while also immersing yourself in history. Don’t miss sipping Turkish coffee or refreshing glasses of çay as you watch the sun set behind the ruins.
Summary
Turkey is blessed with a wealth of fascinating and beautiful cities steeped in history. Cosmopolitan Istanbul, the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, the magnificent ruins of Ephesus and Side, and vibrant coastal cities like Antalya and Izmir all offer compelling reasons to visit. Exploring these cities provides insight into the many incredible chapters of Turkish history while also experiencing modern culture and hospitality. For an unforgettable Turkish adventure, be sure to add some of these mesmerizing cities to your travel itinerary.
Cities in Turkey Turkey, a country bridging Europe and Asia, is known for its rich history and diverse landscapes. From the bustling capital city of Ankara to the historic wonders of Istanbul, the coastal beauty of A
Known For : Hagia Sophia Sultan Ahmed Mosque Topkapi Palace
Although not the official capital of Turkey, Istanbul is still very much the heart of all activities in the country. It is Turkeys largest and most populated city and also the centre of tourism. Istanbul is located on both sides of the Bosphorus and thus lies in both Europe and Asia.
Best Time: March to May or September to November (Spring or Autumn)
Known For : Kaleici Konyaalti Beach Roman Harbour
Antalya is one of the oldest yet most modern cities in Turkey. It is located in the southwestern region and is bordered by the Tauras Mountains. Antalya is famous as a Turkish resort city since it is home to several stunning beaches flanked by large and luxurious Las Vegas style resorts. It is as popular with couples looking for a romantic getaway as it is with families looking for an unforgettable trip.
Best Time: April to December
Known For : Kemeralti Market Kizlaragasi Hani Agora Open Air Museum
Izmir is the third largest city in Turkey (after Istanbul and Ankara) and the second biggest port. It is a modern metropolitan with a developed and busy city centre surrounded by a large bay. Located on the coast of the Aegean sea, Izmir is known for its beaches and watersports.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Fethiye Old Town Amyntas Rock Tombs Paragliding in Fethiye
Fethiye is a port city located on the Turquoise Coast of Turkey. Known for its natural harbor and turquoise blue waters, Fethiye is situated around 144 kms away from Antalya in the Aegean region of Turkey. Several rock tombs and beachfront promenades make for tourist spots in the city. The postcard-worthy backdrop of Fethiye, with dense forests, blue coastline and smaller islands nearby, make the city a perfect destination for a beachy holiday.
Best Time: July to Oct
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Known For : Bodrum Castle Bodrum Museum Of Underwater Archaeology Gumbet Beach
Bodrum is a beach town nestled in the Bodrum peninsula along the southwestern Aegean Coast. Located opposite the Greek island of Kos, the city is known for its marinas and beaches. One of the most popular vacation destinations in Turkey, Bodrum enjoys close proximity to Izmir, located around 230 kms from it. It is an ideal getaway for people who prefer beach vacations, with its quaint and turquoise blue waters.
Best Time: August to November
Known For : Ankara Castle Roman Baths of Ankara Anitkabir
Ankara is the capital of Turkey and the second largest city after Istanbul. It is located in the centre of the Anatolian region and is known to be the nations administrative centre. It is home to many well-preserved Roman and Ottoman relics scattered throughout the city.
Best Time: April to June and September to November
Known For : Marmaris Castle and Archeology Museum Marmaris Old Town Marmaris Marina
The port city of Marmaris is located at Mugla Province on the Mediterranean Coast in South-west Turkey. It is situated on a mountain-ringed bay, opposite the famous Greek island Rhodes. Known for its isolated bays, luxury hotels and resorts and stunning coastline that extends into picturesque valleys, it is a popular holiday town for water lovers along the Aegean coast.
Best Time: June to September
Known For : Mevlana Museum Whirling Dervish Ceremony Konya Karatay Medresesi
Considered to be one of the first residential cities of the world, Konya is a town in the Central Anatolia region in Turkey, towards the south of Ankara. Konya houses numerous mosques and museums and is most popular for the Mevlana Museum, housing the Mevlana tomb. It is also the best place in Turkey to experience the Whirling Dervishes ceremony.
Best Time: April to September
Known For : Ilica Beach Cesme Marina Cesme Castle
Surrounded by the Aegean Sea, Alacati is a coastal town in Turkey. Nestled in the Cesme peninsula, this charming-old Greek town is popular for its vineyards, windmills and the sea. It is studded with natural stone houses with alcove windows and vibrantly coloured doors. Just a stoneÍs throw from Izmir, Alacati has an interesting history dating back to the 17th century and was recognised as a historical site in 2005.
Best Time: June to September
Known For : Trabzon Castle Boztepe Tea Garden Sera Lake
Located on the Black Sea coast of northeastern Turkey, Trabzon is a city with an epic history. Known for its distinctive churches, mosques and natural marvels, Trabzon, formerly known as Trebizond, is the second-largest city in the Black coast region. Trabzon is an excellent place to travel to for admirers of nature, history and architecture.
Best Time: March to May and September to November
Known For : Alanya Castle Red Tower Cable Car Alanya
Alanya is a resort town in the Turkish Riviera, located around 124 kms from Antalya. Alanya is an excellent destination for travelers who seek solitude and a hustle-free countryside trip. It is the perfect blend of medieval history and touristy spots with its turquoise beaches and ancient ruins.
Best Time: Feb to May, Sep to Dec
Known For : Cesme Marina Cesme Castle Gulet Boat Trip in Cesme
The Turkish coastal town of Cesme is located on the Aegean coast towards the west of Izmir. It is located 89 km from Izmir in Turkey and very close to the Greek island of Chios. Surrounded by crystal blue seas, Cesme is one of the most magnificent stretches in Turkey and a popular holiday resort town. Studded with fig and gum trees and lush green fields of aniseed and golden sand beaches, Cesmes unspoilt beach promenades offer solitude and peace. It is the third best surfing resort in the world.
Best Time: June to September
Known For : Grand Mosque of Bursa Koza Han Green Mosque Bursa
Also known as the Green Bursa, Bursa is situated at the foothills of Mount Uludag in Anatolias Marmara region. Bursa is one of Turkeys most important historical cities, with a rich Ottoman history. It is known for its picturesque parks and gardens, vintage Ottoman houses and ornate tombs of Sultans. Bursa was awarded the UNESCO World Heritage status for being the birthplace of the Ottoman Empire.
Best Time: November to March
Known For : Maidens Castle Mersin Marina Forum Mall Mersin
Located 380 kms from Antara, Mersin is a port city on the Mediterranean coast of southern Turkey. The largest seaport in Turkey, Mersin is a significant economic city of the region; and is rightly regarded as the ïPearl of the MediterraneanÍ. With the most extended seashore in the entirety of the Mediterranean region, Mersin has been beaming with skyscrapers, hotels, opera houses and other urban amenities in the past decade.
Best Time: June to Oct
Known For : Phaselis Kemer Beach Mount Chimaera
Kemer is a seaside resort town on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, at the foothills of the Taurus Mountain. Known for its panoramic views of pine trees, golden sand beaches, and lush green valleys, Kemer is located 32 kms from Antalya, a popular holiday destination.
Best Time: June to September
Known For : Ladies Beach Ephesus Kusadasi Castle
The beach resort town of Kusadasi is located on the Aegean Coast in Turkey. Located 95 km ride from Izmir, the island of Kusadasi is known for its stunning turquoise sparkling waters, sandy beaches and large marinas. This major cruise destination is also the gateway to historical ruins in Ephesus, an ancient town in the surrounding areas.
Best Time: June to Oct
Known For : Adana Stone Bridge Adana Central Park Sabanci Central Mosque
The city of Adana is situated on the banks of the Seyhan River, around 35 kms from the northeastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Housing vast Cilician Plains, Adana is the fourth largest and one of the most populous places in Turkey. It is not a major tourist location in Turkey, but it is frequented by tourists on extended vacations in the country.
Best Time: Mar to June, Oct to Nov
Goreme, nestled within volcanic rock formations, serves as the entrance to Goreme National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient cave churches dating back to the 10th and 11th centuries. This area is renowned for its unique chimney rock formations and attracts backpackers. Besides its natural beauty, Goreme is a wonderful place to savor Turkish cuisine and local wines.
This post was published by Anchal Jain
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