Travelling is one of the pleasures of life that everyone must experience. It changes your perspective about the world and throws new light on things. You can also meet some amazing people while you travel, which is great.
There are many spectacular countries that you can visit, and one of them is Turkey. Turkey is a breathtaking place for people who wish to see stunning architecture and empires. The mesmerising beauty, mouth-watering delicacies, and vibrant and rich culture here attract people from all around the globe.
Turkey is a must-visit place, but it is a large country with so many things to offer. So, it is essential to shortlist the Turkey tourist places that you wish to visit in a limited number of days. To help you with this, we have compiled a list of Turkey famous places that you can visit.
Let us go into the details of the Turkey tourist places and famous things in Turkey.
Turkey is a fascinating country located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. With rich history, stunning scenery, and distinctive culture, it’s no wonder Turkey has so many notable claims to fame. From ancient sites to natural wonders, here’s an in-depth look at the top things Turkey is renowned for around the world.
Ancient History
Turkey has been inhabited for thousands of years and was home to some of the greatest civilizations in human history. Numerous ancient sites scatter the landscape, making Turkey a paradise for history buffs.
The most famous is likely Ephesus, an incredibly well-preserved Greek and Roman city from antiquity. Ephesus contains structures like the Great Theatre, Library of Celsus, and Terrace Houses, giving you a window into daily life thousands of years ago.
Turkey also contains the remains of Troy made legendary in Homer’s Iliad. Walking the same streets as Helen Paris, and Achilles is a moving experience.
Some of the world’s first human structures exist at Göbekli Tepe, including immense T-shaped pillars carved 12,000 years ago, predating Stonehenge and the pyramids of Giza.
With sites like Hierapolis, Pergamon, and the ancient capital of Constantinople (Istanbul), Turkey offers an unparalleled look into our distant past.
Natural Beauty
In addition to human history, Turkey boasts awe-inspiring natural landscapes that attract visitors from around the globe.
The unique geological formations of Cappadocia are Turkey’s most famous natural landmark. Millions of years of volcanic eruptions left spectacular “fairy chimneys” dotting Cappadocia’s valleys. You can even stay in cave hotels carved directly into the rocky landscape. Hot air balloon rides over Cappadocia provide stunning aerial views.
The pristine Turquoise Coast contains breathtaking beaches and coves tucked between rugged mountains leading to the sea. The stunning blues and greens of Ölüdeniz and Butterfly Valley exemplify Turkey’s magnificent natural beauty.
Several of Turkey’s natural wonders carry UNESCO World Heritage status, like the bizarre white terraces at Pamukkale and the cascading travertines at Hierapolis.
Exquisite Architecture
With traces left by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans, Turkey hosts outstanding architectural diversity.
The Hagia Sophia, an immense Byzantine church turned Ottoman mosque, remains an awe-inspiring Istanbul landmark. Its massive dome and lavish mosaics still captivate after 1500 years.
The Blue Mosque, also in Istanbul, showcases ornate 17th century Ottoman craftsmanship with hand-painted blue tiles and cascading domes.
Cappadocia also contains fascinating architecture, with churches, monasteries, and entire cities carved into volcanic rock formations underground and above ground.
Dozens of breathtaking mosques and ornate Ottoman palaces like Topkapı Palace help make Turkey an architectural gem.
Delicious Food
Turkish cuisine is rightly world-famous, offering a wide array of mouthwatering flavors.
Kebabs headline Turkish food, from şiş kebabs (skewered meat) to köfte (meatballs) to döner kebab (juicy roasted lamb sliced as kebab or in pita). Grilled meats served with rice or as wraps make tasty quick meals.
Meze small plates like roasted eggplant, stuffed grape leaves, and tzatziki allow sampling diverse Turkish dishes. Olive oil-rich Aegean recipes and spicy southeast Turkish fare offer regional diversity.
Turkish breakfasts (with cheeses, olives, eggs, pastries, jams, honey) and coffee culture help start the day right.
And no trip to Turkey is complete without indulging in baklava, lokum, and other decadent pastries soaked in honey.
Hammams (Turkish Baths)
The ritual of visiting a hamam (Turkish bath) dates back to Ottoman and Roman times, and remains an essential Turkish cultural experience.
After relaxing in a hot sauna, a vigorous exfoliation with a kese (rough cloth mitt) leaves skin purified. A massage and bubble wash follows to pamper cleansed skin.
Istanbul’s Çemberlitaş Hamamı, dating to 1584, is the most famous historical Turkish bath, but cities across Turkey offer hammams ranging from old world to modern.
Soaking in hot pools and getting scrubbed at a hamam is a luxurious Turkish spa experience like no other.
Grand Bazaars
For thousands of years, bazaars have been central to Turkish public life. Massive ancient bazaars remain must-see attractions.
Istanbul’s legendary Grand Bazaar, founded in 1461, contains over 3000 shops in a maze of lanes organized by products, from carpets to gold to spices. One of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, this colossal bazaar is a shopping paradise.
The Spice Bazaar by Istanbul’s Golden Horn transports you back centuries with its alluring fragrant stalls. The enormous Kemeraltı Bazaar in Izmir and other regional markets also shouldn’t be missed.
No trip to Turkey is complete without diving headfirst into bustling bazaars brimming with culture and trade.
Thriving Coffee Culture
Coffee plays a central role in Turkish culture, with centuries-old rituals surrounding its preparation and consumption.
Intricate hand readings allegedly allow Turkish baristas to match customers with their ideal cup. Watching coffee masters brew Turkish coffee over hot sand is mesmerizing.
Locals while away hours at café-filled avenues and landmarks like Istanbul’s Galata Tower, making coffeehouses essential community gathering spots.
With beans roasted in spice markets and ground ultra-fine for powerful brews, Turkish coffee stands apart for its deep flavor and strong caffeination. The grounds left offer fortune-telling fun.
Vibrant Nightlife
After dark, cities like Istanbul and Izmir transform into centers of nightlife enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
Open air bars and clubs along the Bosphorus and Aegean waterfronts create exotic backdrops to spend summer nights. Rooftop bars offer stellar city views.
The region of Beyoğlu in Istanbul houses the largest concentration and diversity of nightlife options, from chic rooftop restaurants to rowdy taverns to trendy nightclubs pumping with dance music.
With so much cultural diversity, each neighborhood offers unique nightlife experiences, with something to match every taste.
Textiles and Fashion
Turkey has long traditions of elegant textiles and fashion at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.
Intricately handwoven Turkish carpets and kilims are globally renowned works of art. Carpet shops display masterpieces of intricate designs and rich natural dyes.
Local cotton and silk textile production, like in Bodrum, fuel high fashion centers like Istanbul which blend European and Middle Eastern influences.
Boutiques selling traditional Turkish evil eye symbols, gleaming lanterns, mosaic mirrors, and modern designed apparel mix old and new.
For the ultimate Turkish fashion experience, custom made clothing crafted using centuries of sartorial expertise makes classy souvenirs.
Beautiful Beaches
Turkey’s long coastlines offer spectacular swimming and sunning spots.
The Turquoise Coast around Antalya contains excellent beaches like Kaputaş nestled dramatically between mountain cliffs leading into crystalline waters. Famed spots like Bodrum and Fethiye also promise sunbathing paradise.
The Black Sea region likewise offers nature-surrounded getaways, like the green tranquility of Uzungöl with lakeside cafes.
White sand beaches, warm weather, and inviting waters give Turkey ideal coastal destinations to experience seaside culture.
Whirling Dervishes
The iconic whirling of dervish spiritual dancers represents an eye-catching facet of Turkish culture.
This mesmerizing ritual called the sema involves spinning repetitively to attain religious trances. Flowing gowns and synchronized movements make this captivating to witness.
The Mevlevi Order formed by Rumi in the 13th century carries on this tradition in Konya, where Rumi is buried. Istanbul also holds sema ceremonies and places to see dervishes whirl.
Observing the sema is a way to connect with Turkey’s religious heritage through this hypnotic dancing.
List of Turkey Famous Places
Here is a list of Turkey’s beautiful places that will leave you in awe of the beauty of the country, and you might never want to leave once you are here:
Hagia Sophia
In case you wish to explore one of the intellectual places in the country, Hagia Sophia has to be on your bucket list. The heritage site has been preserved by UNESCO and is a treasury full of ancient wisdom and knowledge.
In the 6th century, the Ottoman Turks refurbished the church into a mosque. But, later, the mosque was secularised. It is one of the top Turkey tourist places that you must visit on your trip.
Kabak Bay
The hustle and bustle of the cities can put a toll on you, but Kabak Bay is your perfect escape if you wish to avoid it. It is a seashore that is located near to the Lycia village. The village does not have a huge population.
On your trip, you can enjoy many activities like snorkelling, swimming, and sunbathing. You can also use the tents for relaxing and have a scrumptious meal at a restaurant nearby. This place is definitely one of Turkey’s beautiful places.
Topkapi Palace
To get a view of the grand lifestyles of the Ottoman Turks, it is important to visit the Topkapi Palace. The palace features many chambers and rooms that display different antique objects.
You will also be able to catch a glimpse of the royal treasury, harem chambers, Topkapi dagger, Ottoman clothing, weapons, armour, manuscripts, etc. This is one of the top Turkey famous places to visit.
Mount Nemrut
The stunning monument was the home to King Antiochus I Theos, who belonged to the Kingdom of Commagene. You will catch a glimpse of stone heads featuring ancient Gods, stunning remains of huge statues, and Greco-Persian deities. Thus, it is one of the top Turkey beautiful places.
Pamukkale
Pamukkale, which is translated to cotton candy, is a place that tourists from all over the world visit. It has terraces that look like cotton candy. The terraces are white and look like they are covered with snow and surrounded by lush scenery.
Some of the top highlights of this breathtaking place are calcite hill, white travertine terraces, and hot water springs. Thus, if you are in Turkey, this is a Turkey tourist place that you must go to.
Blue Mosque
A true delight for your eyes, the Blue Mosque is a splendid blue-coloured building that comes in the list of one of the most visited places in Turkey. You can go to the mosque at any time except for the time of prayer.
However, to enter the mosque, the dress code has to be strictly followed – women have to cover their heads, and men have to keep their legs covered at all times. The mosque has intricate floral detailing that you must pay attention to so that you can make the most of your visit to the place.
Chora Church
Earlier a Byzantine Greek Church, it was later revamped by the empire of Ottoman Turks. In the year 1948, this Byzantine church was turned into a museum so that the stunning Byzantine frescoes and mosaic work could be preserved. This place has to be on your list of places to visit as it is sure to mesmerise you with the architecture that the country has to offer.
Grand Bazaar
If you love shopping, this place will leave you mesmerised. In this market, you can purchase jewellery, carpets, Turkish crockery, Turkish tea, and exquisite antiques. You can purchase souvenirs for your loved ones from here.
The shopkeepers in the market keep calling out to you as you pass through, so ensure that you keep bargaining so that you can get a decent price. While you go around the country, ensure you do not end up missing this place. Thus, it is one of the top Turkey famous places to visit.
Devrent Valley
The beauty of nature will leave you stunned in this valley that has lunar-shaped landscapes and unique formations of rock. The place is also known as Imagination Valley because you can get yourself clicked with one of the rock formations that look like animals, fictional characters, mythological beings, and ladies.
A tip here would be to wear off-white so that it is easy to blend with the surroundings and also be creative when you pose!
Uchisar Castle
If you come to Turkey with your friends or lover, the castle is a place that you need to visit. The small rooms of the palace are connected using stairs and tunnels. This will add an element of thrill and fun when you are exploring the castle.
You will also be able to see a breathtaking view of your surroundings from the castle’s top. This is surely one of Turkey’s beautiful places that you have to visit on your trip.
Soganli Valley
One of the abandoned towns of the country, the Soganli Valley is a treat for all adventure lovers. Exploring the valley can be quite adventurous, and you will be thrilled. If you love hiking, you can hike to one of the churches, or you can keep exploring the valley to make the most of this place.
Love Valley
One of the most famous Turkey tourist places is this valley. It is essential that you hike to the very top of this valley to catch a glimpse of the fairy chimney and the entire valley. Also, you can ask for a wish from the wish tree that is present in the valley. This is a place for people who love to click pictures, so take plenty of stunning ones for yourself.
Antalya Museum
Known as the largest tunnel aquarium, this is a place for people who wish to see various species of aquatic life. It can be a great experience for the kids as they can understand in detail about aquatic life and its traits. You can enjoy a fun learning session during the trip here.
Kaleici
The stunning old town located in Antalya will provide you with experiences that you will never forget. You can witness the splendid Hadrian gate, private beaches, the watchtower, and bohemian cafes here. Also, while you are here, you cannot afford to miss the mesmerising sunset if you wish to get a wholesome experience of the place.
Perge
This is a famous place in Turkey that has been inspired by Roman architecture. It is the best place for photography and mini shoots. You can see the preserved Roman gates, the Roman stadium, and the Tomb of Plancia Magna. These ruins have been maintained well for the people who are visiting from all around the globe.
What is Turkey Famous for?
Apart from the stunning places, there are many famous things in Turkey that you can experience. Here is the list:
Hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia
While you travel around Turkey, one of the things that you must do is take a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia. You can catch a glimpse of the sunset from the balloon. You will also get to see the lunar landscapes, open-air museums, and underground cities. It is an absolute delight and one of the top famous things in Turkey.
Turkish Cuisine
If you are in Turkey, you cannot return without trying Baklava. It is a mouth-watering pastry that is filled with different nuts and soaked in honey. You can also try the rice pudding and kebabs that will leave you wanting more. Lokum is another dessert that you must try. It is made using a gel of sugar and starch and is coated using icing sugar.
Turkish Beverages
Turkish coffee and tea are an absolute must-try when you are in Turkey. Turkish coffee remains one of the top beverages that people drink worldwide. The drink is made with the use of grounded coffee and is mixed with some water till it gets froth. The coffee is then poured into cups. The drink can feel somewhat gritty, but it is rich, and you will get a caffeine boost from it.
Turkish Baths
When you travel through Turkey, allow yourself the luxury of a Turkish bath. The city centre has 500-year-old Turkish baths that allow locals and tourists. The process starts with steaming and a massage with soap suds and then eventually a bath to get you the ultimate relaxation.
Turkish Ice Cream
The Turkish ice creams are very different from the usual ice creams as they have a hard texture and can be very resilient to melting. This is because they are made using salep and mastic. In addition, while giving the ice cream to you, the vendor will show you some funny tricks that leave the tourists amused. It is one of the famous things in Turkey that you must try.
Oldest Underground Train
Turkey is home to the oldest underground train in the entire Europe. Opened in 1985, the Istanbul tunnel connects Pera and Karakoy. Thus, it becomes essential to take a ride through this amazing tunnel while you are in Turkey.
Bosphorus Cruise
You can try a cruise ride in the beautiful Black Sea to catch a view of a beautiful sunset and a spectacular view of the city of Istanbul. The city of Istanbul is located in Asia as well as Europe, so you can see the sea merge as well.
Additionally, the cruise will offer many dining and lunch options along with private events and dance performances. It is one of the most famous things in Turkey that you must experience.
Atakule
The 125-metre-tall observation and communication tower is located in Cankaya. In addition, you can also visit the rotating restaurant located on the rooftop to enjoy many different Turkish delicacies. The same floor has a cafe where you can enjoy a great meal with your closed ones.
Turkey is a stunning country that you can visit if you are looking to travel abroad. It has so many things to offer and some of the most beautiful places in the world. You can plan a trip in a way that you are able to cover most of the places in your trip.
Also, before you plan your trip, understand the visa requirements and the time it takes to process the visa. Make a detailed itinerary so that you do not miss anything and make the most of your trip to this breathtaking country.
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10 Surprising Things Turkey Is Famous For
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