The Best Things to See and Do in Turkey
You’ll probably be familiar with the major sights in Turkey, from the Hagia Sophia to Ephesus, the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia to the beaches of Antalya. However, Turkey has a lot more to offer. Here are some top things to see and do.
Want to explore the vibrant bazaars and rocky valleys in Turkey? Book Culture Trip’s 12-day group tour, where you’ll stop at key historical sites and glide across the landscape in a hot-air balloon.
1. Take a blue cruise
Bridge
In the summer, there’s nothing better than cruising along the Mediterranean or Aegean coast and making frequent stops for swimming or exploring. Turkey offers many blue cruises (also referred to as gullet sailing), which offer a unique way to experience the beautiful coastal towns and beaches of the country.
2. Go swimming in Çıralı
Architectural Landmark
About an hour’s drive outside Antalya, Çıralı is still a bit of a local secret and has one of the most beautiful beaches imaginable. Stay at a down-to-earth pension, take a dip in the dark blue water and explore the nearby ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Olympos.
4. Visit a thermal spa in Afyonkarahisar
Spa
5. Take a wine tour
Winery
Turkish wine is just beginning to make its mark on the world and the boutique vineyards here are in some of the most scenic Turkish landscapes. Tour operators such as Wine Tours Turkey offer an intimate glimpse into the wine-making regions of Tekirdağ, Hasköy, and Sarköy through private dinners with wine pairings.
6. Drink boza at Vefa Bozacısı
Cafe, Turkish
Boza is a fermented millet drink usually enjoyed in the winter months – and Vefa Bozacısı is the best place to try it. Open since 1876, it provides a glimpse into the old Istanbul that is inevitably fading away.
7. Explore Mardin
Natural Feature, Architectural Landmark
One of the lesser-known destinations in Turkey, treasured for its architecture and history, Mardin is one of the most beautiful cities in the country. Get lost among the narrow historic streets, gaze up at the famous Artuqid stone houses, and indulge in the local cuisine (including amazing spiced wine).
8. Take a long Bosphorus cruise
Natural Feature
One of the best ways to see Istanbul is from the Bosphorus. Hop on the long cruise operated by the city ferry to travel from Eminönü to where the strait meets the Black Sea. Get off at Anadolu Kavağı and eat fresh fish by the water before the ferry takes you back into the city.
9. Spend a weekend in Şirince
Architectural Landmark
A true marvel that’s still relatively unknown to visitors, the small village of Şirince outside of Izmir is a spectacular find with historic houses. Stay at Nişanyan Hotel – the owner was the first to undertake restorative projects to save the Şirince houses back in 1991.
10. Visit Safranbolu
Historical Landmark
The historic Ottoman houses of Safranbolu are some of the most well preserved examples you can find Turkey. It’s no wonder the small town became a Unesco World Heritage Site in the 1990s.
11. Hike up Mount Nemrut
Archaeological site
Climb to the top of Unesco-listed Mount Nemrut to discover a royal tomb that dates back to the first century BCE. Huge statues depict King Antiochus I Theos of Commagene and various Greek, Armenian, and Medes gods.
12. See Hasankeyf before it disappears
Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark
Inhabited by at least six empires throughout history, Hasankeyf is a significant ancient city that will soon dissolve due to a dam project that will flood the area. Make sure to see the ancient caves, Old Tigris Bridge, the mosque, and the Zeynel Bey Mausoleum before they disappear.
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.
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