TOP DESTINATIONS IN TURKEY

Turkey has seen an increase in its number of tourists for the last two years as more and more visitors pour in from around the globe to see its unique sites and cities.

But if you've been looking into taking a Turkish vacation, then you may have no idea where to begin your travels. After all, there is so much to see and do in this naturally beautiful and historic country.

Read on to learn more about fifteen of the top places to visit in Turkey so you can start planning your trip of a lifetime.

Time to plan now! Which ones will you discover first?

1. Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the most popular destinations in Turkey. It's the cultural melting pot of the country and the home to the famous Hagia Sophia.

There you will also find the Grand Bazaar, a large covered market that sells everything you can imagine from fine jewelry to outlandish spices, and ancient antiques. Make sure you go ready to bargain!

2. Cappadocia

Cappadocia is a city of towering boulders and honeycombed hills with some of the most unique topography in the world.

The region has long been used for the soft stone that lends itself to underground shelters. Try to stay in a cave while you're there for a unique experience.

3. Ephesus

Ephesus is an ancient Greek city that lies in Turkey that is famous for the Temple of Artemis that was recognized to be one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

At its height, the city had around 250,000 residents but its population swelled during the spring for the annual festival of Artemis. Today, most of the cities remains can be seen on foot.

4. Aphrodisias

Aphrodisias is a small ancient Greek village located in the upper valley of the Morsynus River. There you can find a temple to Aphrodite that dates to the third century BC.

The city was built around it one year later using marble from surrounding quarries. Today, much of that marble still stands and can be seen in the large civic structures and bath complexes that dot the city.

5. Pamukkale

Pamukkale is a city that is famous for its carbonate mineral surface. The area is dotted with thermal springs that have been historically seen to have healing powers. Today, much of the springs are off limits due to pollution from tourists, but the area remains a historic and scenic gem.

6. Trabzon

Trabzon is a city located on the Black Sea and has a large population. It's located on what was historically the Silk Road and has always stood as a cultural hub for many different religions, languages, and cultures.

It's a beautiful town tucked into the mountains. Today, there are many different religious sites and monuments. It's also home to a ton of unique cuisine and dishes you will have to try when you visit.

7. Mt. Nemrut

Mt. Nemrut is a 7,000 ft high mountain in Turkey and contains the tomb of King Antiochus I of Commagene. It features historic religious sites and is a great place to take a remote hike through the mountains.

Once at the summit of Mt. Nemrut, you will be able to see the ruins of the tomb. Although much of the monument has eroded, you can still get a sense of how impressive the site must have once been.

8. Aspendos

Aspendos is famous for a well-preserved amphitheater from the 2nd-century reign of Marcus Aurelius. It has a capacity of 15,000 people and today is still used as a place for people to go for performances and festivals.

The amphitheater also contains a small museum where you can see the masks and clay tickets that were once used by attendees and performers.

9. Turkish Riviera

The Turkish Riviera is the region of southwest Turkey where the country meets the Mediterranean and Aegean coastlines. There you will find some of the cleanest beaches, best sun, and nicest resorts in the country.

You'll also enjoy the stunning natural views and impressive ancient history of the region.

10. Pergamon

Pergamon is another ancient Greek and Roman city. It's noted for its beautiful sculpture work and its extensive library that was a gift from Mark Anthony to Cleopatra.

The Acropolis of Pergamon was a center of learning for the ancient world. It's also known for its burial mounds and remains from famous Roman, Ottoman, and Byzantine prominent citizens.

11. Gobekli Tepe

Gobekli Tepe is a famous archeological site in Turkey that predates Stonehenge by about 6,000 years. The strange geometry used in the structures erected here is believed to have some sort of connection with religious rituals.

The site provides important information and insight into the things people believed in and the practices they took part in as long as 11,000 years ago.

12. Safranbolu

Safranbolu is an unforgettable town named for the spice, "saffron". It's a bit of a detour from traditional tourist routes through Turkey, but you'll find the city is worth the effort for the adventure.

You'll love the old town district with its bazaars selling sweet-treats, textile goods, and just about everything else. You never know what you'll find around the corner.

13. Catalhoyuk

Catalhoyuk was a large Neolithic proto-city that existed at its high point in 7000 B.C. Today, it is famous for being the oldest village in the world and you can see the ruins of houses that were packed in tightly to the thirty-two-acre area.

14. Troy

Troy was a Bronze Age City that is famous for being attacked in the Trojan war. Today, it is known as Anatolia and is home to many famous ruins that date to the time of the war and before it. It's located near the Aegean Sea as well as the Black Sea making it an important hub for trade for thousands of years.

15. Gallipoli

Gallipoli is a city with more recent history than many of the others on this list. It is famous for its role during World War One as a site where more than 58,000 allied troops met their fate. Although the city has a tough history, it's also a beautiful and culturally rich place to visit.

More Information on the Top Places to Visit in Turkey

The beautiful cities mentioned in this article are great places to visit in Turkey whether you are looking for a lonesome adventure or a fun destination to take the whole family.

For more information to help you plan your travels to Turkey, contact us today.