12 Most Unusual Non-Touristy Experiences in Turkey

Embark on a private full-day tour of Ephesus, guided by an expert through its storied ruins and religious sites. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, explore the ancient city’s grand ruins including the theater and the Celsus Library, and marvel at the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the ancient wonders of the world. This personalized tour ensures a timely return to your cruise ship, offering an enriching, in-depth experience of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There’s nothing like having someone scrub you down and then wash and massage you in a cloud of soap foam, especially inside a historical hamam decked out in marble and a whole lot of steam. The hamam experience is definitely one of Turkey’s foremost attractions, and many visitors look forward to a relaxing and thoroughly cleansing Turkish bath.

Experience Cappadocia from above with a hot-air balloon flight at dawn, providing stunning views of its unique landscapes. The experience includes a light breakfast with hot drinks and snacks, door-to-door transport for extra convenience, and a post-flight celebration with a nonalcoholic toast. Capture the morning light on camera and take home a flight certificate to commemorate your journey.

Embark on a private half-day food tour in Istanbul, tasting 10 iconic local delicacies. Your guide will lead you through historic passages like Cicek Pasaji and Avrupa Pasaji while introducing you to Turkish culinary traditions. Savor a mix of sweet and savory treats, including Turkish delight and durum. This personalized tour adjusts to your dietary needs and offers ample opportunities to engage with your guide on Turkish cuisine.

The whirling dervishes are part of the Mevlevi/Sufi Order founded by 13th-century Persian poet and Sufi mystic Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Balkhi-Rumi and explores elements of mysticism within Islam. The whirling dervish ceremony is a truly striking experience not only visually because of the dervish robe and perfected movement but also because of the spiritual aura that the ritual expresses.

Escape to the serene beauty of Orak Island on the Bodrum Orak Island Boat Tour. Known as the “Maldives of Bodrum,” this tour blends the azure allure of the sea with the verdant charm of olive groves. Dive into crystal-clear waters, sunbathe on pristine beaches, and explore untouched natural settings. This popular tour promises a stress-relieving day filled with swimming and relaxation, perfect for an unforgettable day out with family or friends.

Many are already quite familiar with Turkey’s major sights such as Istanbul’s imperial mosques and palaces, Ephesus, Cappadocia, etc.; however, the ruins of the Lycian Empire are still a bit on the down low. The Lycian Way is an excellent hiking trail that stretches 540 kilometers (336 miles) along the coast and passes by about 25 remote historical Lycian sites. The footpath can take around 29 days to complete and goes from Fethiye to Antalya.

Oil wrestling is probably one of Turkey’s most unusual sports in which athletes are doused in oil before they wrestle for the win. The Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival has been taking place since 1346 and is the place to see both younger athletes and the champions (called Pehlivan) battle it out on the field.

Explore the ancient Greco-Roman city of Hierapolis and the stunning natural wonders of Pamukkale on this small-group tour. Discover the UNESCO-listed sites known for their therapeutic hot springs and the striking white terraces of Pamukkale, often referred to as the Cotton Castle. The tour includes a dip in Cleopatra’s Pool, a buffet lunch, entrance fees, and convenient round-trip transportation from your hotel.

Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s historical splendor with a customizable private tour spanning 1 to 3 days. Explore iconic sites such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Your itinerary includes a mix of architectural marvels, bustling bazaars like the Grand Bazaar, and scenic locations like the Bosphorus and Dolmabahce Palace. Each day offers a unique pathway through the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, guided by an expert to enhance your experience.

The area comprising Trabzon and Rize along the Black Sea can be most readily compared to the Alps, with beautiful mountains, green valleys, and small mountain cabins all around. For nature lovers, Turkey’s Far Northeast is a truly unique experience because of its utter detachment from city life within unspoiled nature. One of the area’s most visited spots is the Sumela Monastery, a Greek Orthodox monastery within the Pontic Mountains.

Embark on an adrenaline-fueled adventure in Antalya with this thrilling combo tour. Tackle ten white-water rapids on a 9-mile rafting journey, guided by a professional with full safety gear. After rafting, take on an off-road challenge in a buggy or ATV, and soar on a zipline. Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch by the river and benefit from convenient round-trip transfers from your hotel in the Antalya area.