4 Spectacular Things to Do in Turkey for an Unforgettable Vacation
Has this lockdown left you with a serious case of the travel bug? Are you eager to plan your next getaway once the world opens up again? If so, you should join the 51.9 million people who visit Turkey annually. From ancient history to stunning natural beauty, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in Turkey.
Ready to feel inspired? Read on for our vote on the best places to visit in Turkey.
1. Marvel at Architecture in Istanbul
You’ll probably land in Istanbul when you arrive in Turkey, which is the perfect starting point for your journey.
Istanbul is a glittering city that’s bridged Europe and Asia for over 2,000 years. Not surprisingly, many historic landmarks in Istanbul are on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Go on a shopping spree in the dizzying maze of the Grand Bazaar—the world’s oldest and largest market. Sign up for a tour of the 1,500-year-old Hagia Sophia cathedral-turned-mosque.
Finish your day with a cruise along the Bosporus while you admire the spires of Istanbul’s 3,113 mosques.
2. Go Resort-Hopping Along the Turkish Riviera
Looking for turquoise waters and beautiful beaches? Rent a car and plan a road trip along the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas.
Start on the southern coast in Antalya and head west, stopping in the towns of Kas and Fethiye along the way. Or begin on the west coast in Izmir and drive south to Bodrum.
Whichever option you choose, you’re sure to be astounded by the hidden coves, towering mountains, and bright blue waters. And don’t miss a side trip to the calcium pools of Pamukkale, one of the most visited sites in Turkey.
3. Explore the Rock Formations of Cappadocia
Cappadocia’s “fairy chimneys” look like a scene from another planet. Almost as impressive as the landscape itself is what locals have done with it, carving houses and even churches into the rocks!
Take a hot air balloon flight to see the impressive scenery of Goreme from above. Then spend a night you’ll never forget in one of the area’s many cave hotels.
If you’re overwhelmed by options, a Turkey travel agency can help to organize your plans.
4. Visit the Ancient Ruins of Ephesus
No list of Turkey tourist attractions would be complete without mentioning the 3,000-year-old city of Ephesus.
See history come to life as you wander ruins that pre-date the Greek Empire. Follow the footsteps of Alexander the Great and the 1st-century Christians.
This is also your chance to see what remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the original Seven Wonders of the World.
Feeling Inspired by These Things to Do in Turkey?
One thing is for sure: You won’t run out of amazing things to do in Turkey.
When you arrive in Istanbul, you’ll be dazzled by the country’s colorful history and culture. Take a road trip along the coast, spend the night in a cave hotel, and tour some of the oldest ruins on earth.
So what are you waiting for? It’s time to start planning your next vacation to Turkey—the crossroads of the East and the West!
Love what you read? Check out our other travel posts for more fresh inspiration.
With over 20+ years of experience in a variety of corporate and entrepreneurial environments, Diana has developed a great understanding of Marketing Strategy, Brand Development, Customer Success, Public Relations and Management. Her internal drive for developing others and external brands, has allowed her to work in some of the largest cities in the world including Milan, Paris, NY, Mexico, and the Middle East. This experience has been fundamental to Diana’s success and ability to communicate cross-culturally.
