The diverse city of Istanbul, the surreal rock formations of Cappadocia, the ancient ruins of Ephesus, and the sparkling Mediterranean and Aegean coastlines are Turkey’s biggest attractions, but each region of the country has something unique to offer.

The variety of landscapes, heritage, and culinary culture will surprise those who have never explored beyond holiday resorts and the beach. While it’s easy to travel around Turkey, the country has too much to see and do to experience it all in one trip. Since most domestic flights connect through Istanbul, consider spending at least a few days in this vibrant global metropolis before venturing to other top destinations in Turkey.

  1. Istanbul: One of the world’s premier cities, Istanbul should be on every traveler’s must-visit list. Iconic landmarks such as the grand Byzantine basilica Aya Sofya, commonly known as Hagia Sophia in English, and the opulent Topkapı Palace, once home to Ottoman sultans, testify to the city’s rich history as the seat of powerful empires.

However, allocate some time to experience Istanbul as it stands today. Explore the trendy Kadıköy neighborhood, known for its vibrant cafe and bar scene, stroll through the quaint streets of the more traditional Fatih district, or immerse yourself in contemporary art in Beyoğlu. And don’t miss the simple pleasure of sipping çay (tea) on a ferry while soaking in breathtaking views of the city.

Planning tip: While you could easily spend your entire vacation in Istanbul, consider venturing further afield to discover other Turkish delights if time allows.

  1. Cappadocia: Cappadocia stands as a geological marvel in the heart of Turkey. The rich history of early Christians in Anatolia unfolds at the Göreme Open-Air Museum, alongside numerous cave churches and underground cities dotted throughout the valley. Romance flourishes in the intimate cave hotels and restaurants, while sunrise balloon rides offer a picturesque experience complemented by a champagne toast. For adventurers, the region’s lush valleys and rocky terrain provide ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running.
  2. Turquoise Coast: Yes, Turkey’s Mediterranean shoreline stretching between Fethiye and Antalya is brimming with stunning spots for sun, surf, and sand vacations, but it also showcases remnants of ancient civilizations that once thrived in the region. The coastal ruins of Patara (home to one of Turkey’s finest beaches), and Phaselis are particularly charming, while the rock tombs of Myra leave a lasting impression. For a deeper dive into the region’s history, the Antalya Museum offers valuable insights. Explore by embarking on a gület cruise, trekking along the Lycian Way hiking trail, or navigating the scenic (albeit winding!) coastal roads by car.
  3. Gallipoli and the North Aegean: Cemeteries honoring the tens of thousands of soldiers who perished in fierce battles on the Gallipoli Peninsula during WWI are spread across picturesque rolling hills, adding to the solemnity amid such strikingly beautiful landscapes. The region also serves as the entrance to Turkey’s North Aegean coastline, offering a more laid-back alternative to the Mediterranean. Here, you can leisurely explore charming seaside towns like Ayvalık and Foça, visit the island vineyards of Bozcaada, explore the ancient city of Troy (boasting an exceptional museum), and marvel at the breathtakingly positioned hilltop acropolis of Bergama.
  4. Pamukkale: The bright-white terraces of Pamukkale are surely one of the most photographed sites in Türkiye, incongruously gleaming above the rural town like freshly fallen snow. The warm mineral water that flows through them was the basis for the ancient spa city of Hierapolis, whose extensive remains sprawl out along the hilltop next to the famous travertines.Planning tip: Pamukkale also makes a good base for visiting other nearby ancient sites like Laodicea, Tripolis and – most notably – the gorgeous ruins of Afrodisias with its impressive collection of Roman marble sculptures.
  1. Datça: Relaxing and reconnecting with nature are the main attractions on the secluded Datça and Bozburun peninsulas in the southern Aegean. Instead of the lively nightlife found in nearby Bodrum and Marmaris, you’ll discover extensive stretches of rugged coastline, picturesque rural villages, and cozy beach resorts and coastal towns. A helpful hint: The Carian Trail, a long-distance hiking route, loops around both peninsulas. Prior to embarking on your journey, verify accessibility as certain parts of the trail may have been affected by wildfire damage during the summer of 2021.

 

  1. Eastern Black Sea: The rugged, chilly waters of the Black Sea might not beckon, but shift your focus inland to witness the allure of the Eastern Black Sea and Kaçkar Mountains. Down at lower altitudes, you’ll find Türkiye’s main tea and hazelnut production zones, nestled amid verdant valleys that cascade toward the coast from towering peaks. These high plateaus, such as Pokut, once grazing grounds for livestock, now draw tourists in search of breathtaking vistas and authentic Black Sea culture and cuisine. Ascending further, the Kaçkar Mountains promise thrilling summer treks for seasoned hikers. Trabzon serves as the primary air travel hub for the region, boasting attractions like the cliff-side Sumela Monastery.
  1. Eastern Turkey: The vast landscapes of Turkey’s far east have a remote ruggedness unmatched elsewhere in the country. Perhaps best known to travelers as the endpoint of the Eastern Express, a popular and scenic overnight train trip from Ankara, the border city of Kars retains striking architecture from its years as a Russian outpost in the 1800s. Nearby are the extensive and evocative UNESCO-listed ruins of Ani, an ancient Armenian capital. A three-hour drive south will take you to the remote Ishak Pasha Palace, passing by the fabled Mount Ararat en route. Continue on to Van, where you can fuel up on one of the city’s famously elaborate breakfast spreads before visiting the fine museum in town and taking a day excursion to Akdamar Church, a masterfully decorated Armenian church and monastery complex on a small island in Lake Van.
  1. Southern Anatolia: The frequently ignored southeastern Anatolia region stands out as one of Turkey’s cultural and culinary gems. The cities of Gaziantep and Antakya (Hatay) are renowned for their cuisine, and they each feature museums displaying remarkable collections of Roman mosaics. Mardin’s charming and well-maintained old town serves as an excellent starting point for discovering the monasteries and Roman ruins nearby. Just beyond Şanlıurfa lies Göbeklitepe, the world’s oldest religious site, complemented by its own impressive archaeology museum and bustling bazaar.

  2. Safranbolu: Named after the saffron that thrived and was traded here for centuries, is now a favorite destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in its ancient Ottoman ambiance. Numerous historic wood-framed mansions in the town have been lovingly restored and transformed into charming boutique hotels, cafes, and restaurants. If the quaintness becomes overwhelming, the canyons, waterfalls, and forests of the nearby Yenice Forest offer a refreshing natural escape.