Turkey is a spellbinding country that’s cradled between Europe and Asia, steeped in layers of history, dazzling natural beauty, and an eclectic cultural tapestry. It has everything—from otherworldly landscapes and ancient ruins to coastal charms and vibrant bazaars. From my unforgettable journeys across this magnificent land, here are 15 incredible places I absolutely adored and think you will too…
1. Cappadocia
Cappadocia Turkey Hot Air Balloon
Cappadocia is like stepping into a dreamscape sculpted by fairies and time itself. I was left breathless by the region’s honeycombed hills, towering fairy chimneys, and surreal valleys bathed in pastel hues. And the hot air balloon ride at sunrise? Absolutely magical—floating over undulating rocks and sleepy villages as the sky burst into color.
Location: Central Anatolia
Best time to visit: Spring and Autumn (for calm winds and cool weather)
Activities on offer: Hot air ballooning, hiking in Rose Valley, visiting underground cities like Derinkuyu
Accommodation: Museum Hotel, Argos in Cappadocia, Sultan Cave Suites
Map Location and Directions
My highlight: Watching the balloons take off at dawn from a terrace with a warm cup of Turkish tea—pure magic!
2. Istanbul
Istanbul Blue Mosque
Istanbul is where continents kiss. I loved how this grand, bustling city straddles Europe and Asia while weaving together empires of the past. I marveled at the majestic Hagia Sophia, got lost in the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar, and adored the call to prayer echoing through the golden evening light at the Blue Mosque.
Location: Northwestern Turkey
Best time to visit: April–May or September–October
Activities on offer: Visiting Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Bosphorus cruise
Accommodation: Four Seasons Sultanahmet, Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet, Soho House Istanbul
Map Location and Directions
3. Pamukkale
Pamukkale Travertines
I felt like I had walked into another planet here! Pamukkale’s glistening white terraces and turquoise thermal pools looked like a frozen waterfall under the sun. I relaxed in the warm waters while looking over the stunning valley below, then wandered through the ruins of Hierapolis right above the terraces.
Location: Denizli Province, southwestern Turkey
Best time to visit: Spring and Autumn
Activities on offer: Soaking in thermal pools, exploring Hierapolis ruins, Cleopatra’s Pool
Accommodation: Melrose Viewpoint Hotel, Venus Hotel, Doga Thermal Health & Spa
Map Location and Directions
4. Ephesus
Ephesus Ruins
As a history lover, Ephesus absolutely blew my mind! I stood before the grand Library of Celsus, strolled through marble-paved streets, and imagined the ancient crowds that once gathered in its massive amphitheater. It felt like time travel!
Location: Near Selçuk in İzmir Province
Best time to visit: Spring and early Fall
Activities on offer: Exploring ancient ruins, visiting the Temple of Artemis, House of Virgin Mary
Accommodation: Nisanyan Hotel (Şirince), Akanthus Hotel Ephesus, Livia Hotel Ephesus
Map Location and Directions
5. Antalya
Antalya Old Town
Antalya had me swooning with its mix of ancient charm and Mediterranean flair. I loved the cobbled streets of Kaleiçi, the cliffside views, and turquoise beaches. It’s an ideal combo of cultural wonder and seaside escape.
Location: Southwestern coast of Turkey
Best time to visit: April to June or September
Activities on offer: Relaxing at Konyaaltı Beach, exploring Kaleiçi, visiting waterfalls
Accommodation: Tuvana Hotel, Akra Hotel, Alp Pasa Hotel
Map Location and Directions
6. Mount Ararat
Mount Ararat Turkey
The snow-capped, mythical peak of Mount Ararat was a powerful presence. It’s believed to be the resting place of Noah’s Ark, and whether you climb or just admire it from the valleys below, it radiates a mystical majesty.
Location: Eastern Turkey, near the Armenian border
Best time to visit: Summer (for climbing)
Activities on offer: Trekking, photography, local cultural tours
Accommodation: Butik Ertur Hotel (Doğubayazıt), Tehran Boutique Hotel
Map Location and Directions
7. Bodrum
Bodrum Castle Beach Turkey
Bodrum’s breezy Aegean vibe instantly won me over. Whitewashed houses, bougainvillea-draped alleys, and beach clubs with hypnotic views—it’s a sophisticated seaside playground. I adored the slow mornings with seafront Turkish breakfasts and sunset cocktails at the marina.
Location: Southwestern Turkey
Best time to visit: Late Spring or early Fall
Activities on offer: Castle of St. Peter, sailing, nightlife, exploring ancient ruins of Halicarnassus
Accommodation: The Marmara Bodrum, Macakizi Hotel, Mandarin Oriental Bodrum
Map Location and Directions
8. Göbekli Tepe
Göbekli Tepe Turkey
This place gave me goosebumps! Considered the world’s oldest known temple complex, it’s older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. I walked among the stone pillars and couldn’t believe the mysteries this site still holds.
Location: Southeastern Turkey, near Şanlıurfa
Best time to visit: Spring and Autumn
Activities on offer: Exploring the archaeological site, visiting Şanlıurfa’s museums
Accommodation: Elci Konagi Butik Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn Şanlıurfa
Map Location and Directions
9. Fethiye & Ölüdeniz
Blue Lagoon Oludeniz
Fethiye’s lush coast and the famous Blue Lagoon in Ölüdeniz were everything I dreamed of and more! I paraglided off Babadağ Mountain for the most thrilling bird’s-eye view and swam in waters that seemed unreal.
Location: Southwestern coast
Best time to visit: May to October
Activities on offer: Paragliding, Blue Lagoon swimming, Lycian Way hiking
Accommodation: Liberty Hotels Lykia, Jade Residence, Yacht Classic Hotel
Map Location and Directions
10. Troy
Troy Turkey Ruins
Standing at the ruins of ancient Troy was something special. With layers of history and legend (hello, Trojan Horse!), this place whispered stories of gods and warriors at every turn.
Location: Northwestern Turkey, near Çanakkale
Best time to visit: Spring or Fall
Activities on offer: Exploring ruins, visiting the Troy Museum
Accommodation: Kolin Hotel, Troia Tusan Hotel, Grand Eceabat Hotel
Map Location and Directions
11. Kaş
Kas Turkey
Kaş was a total hidden gem. A bohemian coastal town with a relaxed vibe, it offered me charming boutique shops, incredible diving spots, and unforgettable sunset dinners on the water’s edge.
Location: Mediterranean coast
Best time to visit: May to October
Activities on offer: Scuba diving, boat trips, ancient theater visits
Accommodation: Hotel Sonne, Lukkies Lodge, Nur Hotel
Map Location and Directions
12. Sumela Monastery
Sumela Monastery Cliff Turkey
This cliffside monastery is a true marvel! Nestled in the lush mountains of Trabzon, the frescoed halls and jaw-dropping views made this one of my most awe-filled experiences in Turkey.
Location: Macka, Trabzon Province
Best time to visit: Summer
Activities on offer: Hiking, photography, historical site tours
Accommodation: Zitaş Hotel, Novotel Trabzon, Royal Comfort Hotel
Map Location and Directions
13. Lake Van
Lake Van Eastern Turkey
This vast saline lake in eastern Turkey is hauntingly beautiful. I loved taking a boat out to Akdamar Island to see the Armenian Cathedral, set against snow-dusted peaks and the shimmering blue.
Location: Eastern Turkey
Best time to visit: Spring and Summer
Activities on offer: Boating, visiting Akdamar Island, birdwatching
Accommodation: Elite World Van Hotel, Tamara Hotel Van
Map Location and Directions
14. Safranbolu
Safranbolu Ottoman Houses
Walking through Safranbolu felt like stepping back centuries. This UNESCO-listed town is a treasure trove of Ottoman architecture. I loved sipping strong Turkish coffee in a centuries-old caravanserai.
Location: Karabük Province, Northern Turkey
Best time to visit: Spring or Fall
Activities on offer: Exploring Ottoman houses, local markets, historical bathhouses
Accommodation: Gulevi Safranbolu, Hilton Garden Inn Safranbolu, Hancıoğlu Konak Otel
Map Location and Directions
15. Patara Beach
Patara Beach Turkey
Patara is one of the longest and most untouched beaches I’ve ever seen. I wandered over soft sands, explored nearby ancient ruins, and even saw baby sea turtles at dusk—completely magical!
Location: Mediterranean coast, near Gelemiş
Best time to visit: Summer
Activities on offer: Beach relaxation, exploring ancient Patara, turtle watching
Accommodation: Flower Hotel Patara, Golden Lighthouse Hotel
Map Location and Directions
Ready to Discover Turkey?
Whether you’re chasing myths, mountains, or Mediterranean waters, Turkey offers a spectacular array of adventures. From the warm hospitality to the heady mix of cultures and sights, every corner of this country left me spellbound. Let me help you plan your dream trip through our complimentary travel planning service!
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