You can still gain a lot from Cappadocia by wandering through the city without jumping on the expensive hot air balloon rides or taking tours of the caves. Turkey is a huge country with a diverse range of attractions and activities, so it’s impossible to see everything in Turkey in 10 days. But taking a week-long road trip along the west coast or flying from Istanbul to Izmir, to Antalya and Cappadocia, are great ways of discovering the best of the beautiful country.
For a different perspective, you can paraglide or take a hot air balloon ride over the region to see the tops of the fairy chimneys below you appearing like an alien planet. Pamukkale is an ancient city that sits in western Turkey with its picturesque terraced white-and-blue pools that appear to be dripping with icicles. Once the ancient spa city of Hierapolis, today, it’s a protected area that people visit to explore the unique landscape and ruins unspoiled by development. From exotic palaces and iconic domed mosques to underground cave cities and Mediterranean beaches lined with castles and ruins, the best places to visit in Turkey offer a captivating allure for all types of travelers.
As far as quick and easy snacks go, it’s hard to pass up simit, a bread similar to a sesame-encrusted bagel. Carts selling simit can be found at bus and train stations, main streets and other busy thoroughfares. As well as restaurants serving traditional Ottoman and contemporary cuisines, there are countless street stalls and markets serving all sorts of Turkish favorites. Blessed with vast areas of fertile soil, Turkey also ranks among the world’s top agricultural producers, featuring many farms, orchards, vineyards and olive groves which you can visit to taste the produce yourself.
If you do want to hike, the middle of summer may not be the best time to visit this area due to the intense heat. Mardin, with its rich history of Syriac, Arab, Turkish, Mongol, and Ottoman influences, is renowned for its stunning architecture. Intricately carved limestone buildings climb the mountainside, Viaggi in Turchia with narrow cobblestone streets and staircases weaving through the city. Grand mosques, numerous churches, monasteries, and museums dot Mardin, offering endless exploration opportunities. This city on the Turkish Riviera offers beautiful beaches, nature retreats, ancient wonders, and a fascinating history.
Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes look like they’re straight out of a fantasy. Glide over the region in a hot air balloon at sunrise, admire the unique rock formations, and explore homes carved into the cliffs. Whether hiking through valleys or soaking in the view from above, this otherworldly destination feels truly magical. A luxurious and idyllic retreat where guests can enjoy world-class amenities, stunning golf courses, and pristine beaches.
Donations fund a program where young scholarship awardees undertake outreach workshops with marginalized children in regional villages. Turkish coffee is known around the world for its unique brewing method. It’s made with finely ground arabica beans, often with cardamom, in a cezve – a pretty copper or brass pot with a long, thin handle. It has a thick layer of foam on top and leaves a muddy sediment at the bottom of the cup. Home to some of the tastiest produce, traditional cooking methods and influences from Asia, Europe and the Middle East, Turkey’s food is surprising, delicious and delightful (pun definitely intended).
Türkiye Travel Guide
Julian Club Hotel in the Mediterranean city of Marmaris is a cheaper alternative to other coastal destinations such as Antalya and Izmir, offering outdoor pools and spa services. There are regular shuttle services with fixed prices between Dalaman airport and Marmaris city center. Learn the secrets of the spice markets, visit stunning religious sites, wander lively Instanbul, then discover otherworldly landscapes of hot springs and hot air balloons. From belly dancers to baklava, our expert Trafalgar Travel Directors will take you on a remarkable voyage through Turkey. Be My Guest invites you to connect with locals, while MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences let you positively impact communities. Plus, on many tours, you’ll overnight at Stays with Stories accommodations with tales as rich as the places you explore.
You’ll want to exercise a lot of caution while on the road, but you’ll more than likely be fine. The buses in Turkey will take you pretty much anywhere you need them to, are reasonably comfortable, and exceptional value for money. They’re the cheapest option for travelling both short and long distances across the country, and usually offer air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a snack on board.
Being avid travellers ourselves, we know what is essential to creating that perfect trip and combine all these elements in every one of our tours. With fascinating destinations, expert guides, like-minded travellers, premium accommodation, and travel — not to mention competitive prices; we strive to tick all the boxes with unique and authentic travelling experiences. Explore exotic destinations like Egypt, Turkey, Jordan, Israel, Russia or India & Nepal.
Days 19 And 20: Pergamon, Çanakkale, Troy And Gallipoli
On the way check out the Sultanhanı Caravanserai, an ancient trading outpost with an incredible entrance gate. Istanbul has got so much to offer, and as your trip draws to a close, it’s time to put on your comfortable walking shoes and prepare to explore the historical Istanbul. If you are a fan of Dan Brown’s Inferno, you’ll recognize a lot of these attractions from the adventures of Robert Langdon. On your third day in Turkey, you get to tick off one of the most iconic activities in the region – flying above the ground in a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia.
Hotels in Konya were extremely affordable and you can stay in some very nice modern hotels for a reasonable rate. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hattusha is an interesting stop between Safranbolu and Cappadocia and, after spending the afternoon exploring the ancient site, we arrived in Cappadocia just in time for sunset. 10-day holiday package with guided tours of Istanbul’s main attractions (historical Sultanahmet & Bosphorous) then on to Greece for … When travelling to Turkey, it is important to be aware of the local customs and culture. For example, it is considered rude to show public displays of affection. It is also essential to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
A resort city with white sand beaches and fancy hotels surrounding the yacht-filled Old Harbor, Antalya is one of the best places to visit in Turkey if you’re looking for relaxation and beachy vibes. Get there early to avoid the crowds (it’s best to stay overnight!) while soaking, splashing and relaxing in these unique springs. And when your fingers have turned pruney, head to the top of the hill where you can explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis. One of the most gorgeous pools in Göreme, Local Cave House is a boutique property that offers cave suites for double, triple and family-sized occupancy. Carved into the cliffside in Göreme, the hotel features a beautiful terrace with swimming pool and hookah lounge.
Packed full of quality inclusions, we give you so much more for your money on every no-hassle trip. July and August are the most popular months to visit, with temperatures regularly peaking over 30 degrees Celsius and little chance of rain disrupting your plans. If you’re here specifically for the beach and activities on the water, this is peak season. May, June, September, and October are the prime time for Turkey travels, with plenty of blue skies and sunshine and softer light for photography, but fewer crowds. Just remember to pack a warmer layer for after dark and a jacket in case of rain. Non-worshipping visitors are welcome to visit outside of prayer times.
