21 Breathtaking Places To Explore In Turkey

1. The Blue Lagoon, Oludeniz

I was completely wowed by this Insta-worthy beauty spot! The stunning protected natural lagoon is filled with shimmering brilliant turquoise waters, a gorgeous sandy beach, and stunning backdrop of emerald hills and rugged mountains. I also thought it was a special place with a peaceful but with an almost otherworldly and dreamy vibe. 

My favourite highlights… 

• Going on an awesome tandem paragliding flight with an experienced pilot and getting an incredible bird’s eye view of of the lagoon!  

2. Bodrum

Despite not knowing what to expect, Bodrum really won me over! found the port city and popular tourist resort was filled with an interesting mix of ancient and modern architecture, traditional white-washed houses with blue trim, and a variety of gorgeous beaches from tourist-drenched sands to tranquil coves, ancient ruins, green hills and the sparkling turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea.

I thought the city had a unique dual nature which was a blend of upscale chic with its sprawling five star resorts, trendy bars, fine waterfront restaurants and yacht-filled marinas as well as more of typical Mediterranean tourist resort with its souvenir shops and busy budget cafes. 

My personal highlights… 

• Staying at the Faros Bodrum Hotel – I loved the trendy decor, the four poster bed in my guest room and sunbathing on the pontoon overlooking the sea!

3. Istanbul

I thought this was a truly intoxicating city! I discovered that the largest city in the country had a exotic blend of rich history and modern architecture, with striking iconic landmarks that dominated the skyline, narrow, labyrinthine streets lined with hidden cafes, artisan shops and eclectic neighbourhoods all set against the scenic backdrop of the Bosphorus Strait. 

I was in awe of the unique mix of cultures here as well as the bustling markets, the gorgeous water views, the lively nightlife and its dynamic vibe – it really was where East met the West!

I found it in the northwestern part of the country, straddling both Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait and has a population of over 15 million people. It was once known as known as Byzantium and later Constantinople and has been a major cultural and economic hub since around 660 BCE. 

I flew into Istanbul Airport and spent a heady four days exploring. I squeezed in visiting the iconic landmarks of Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, strolled through the maze-like Grand Bazaar, sampled the trendy nightlife in Beyoğlu, went on a truly magical Bosphorus cruise, tested my haggling skills at the busy Spice Bazaar, people-watched while sipping on a dibek coffee in the lively Taksim Square and gorged on Turkish cuisine from upscale dining to trying street food at İstiklal Avenue.  

• Location: northwest part of the country.
• Best time to visit: spring or autumn (for mild weather and fewer tourists).
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Staying at the gorgeous Mest Hotel Istanbul Sirkeci – I loved the Insta-worthy historic boutique styling, the stunning views of the rooftop terrace which had superb views of the Bosphorus and my ornately tiled guest room balcony! 

4. Cappadocia

I thought this famous and very Insta-worthy historical region was breathtaking! I found surreally beautiful landscapes filled with fairy chimneys, ancient rock-hewn churches, cave dwellings and fascinating underground cities, all set against the backdrop of stunning sunrise hot air balloon rides that illuminated the unique geological formations. To me, it felt magical, romantic and other-worldly, almost fairy-tale like!

I found it located in the cenic Anatolian region in the central part of the country, largely in the Nevşehir Province, but it also extended into Kayseri, Aksaray, and Niğde provinces as well. It’s an unusual region shaped by volcanic activity and erosion, dates back to the Hittites in the 6th century BCE, and today has a population of around 2.5 million.

I flew from Istanbul to Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport which took an hour and 10 minutes and I spent three days here based in Nevşehir (where most of the all the action was at!) and I loved gazing at the otherworldly landscapes and “fairy chimneys” – Peri Bacaları in Turkish – from a hot air balloon. 

I also explored the ancient rock-cut churches of Göreme Open Air Museum, wandered through the underground cities of Derinkuyu (which is the deepest, extending about 55 meters) and Kaymaklı (one of the largest underground settlements in the region) hiked the scenic Love Valley and Rose Valley.

• Location: central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: spring (for hot air balloon rides with clear skies).
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights… 

5. Pamukkale

I personally think this is the country’s most impressive natural wonders! I found the famous natural site was truly extraordinary with its breathtaking white terraces and warm, mineral-rich (mostly calcium carbonate) pools, which spectacularly cascaded down a hillside and the vivid contrast of the surrounding green landscapes. It felt tranquil, surreal and almost other-worldly. 

I found it nestled in the River Menderes valley in southwestern part of the country, near the city of Denizli. It’s name translated into “Cotton Castle” and the area has been used a thermal spa since Roman times, with the nearby city of Hierapolis established around the 2nd century BCE.

I took an hour and 10 minutes flight from Nevşehir (near Cappadocia) to Denizli Çardak Airport (the closest airport to Pamukkale) and from there I took 1-hour drive to Pamukkale and stayed for a very unique three days mostly soaking in the warm waters in the terraces.

I also found time to squeeze in exploring the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, which had a well-preserved theatre and necropolis, swam in the historic thermal pool, known as ‘Antique Pool’ which was strangely filled with submerged fragments of ancient marble columns, and visited the interesting Hierapolis Archaeology Museum.

• Location: western part of the country.
• Best time to visit: spring (to enjoy warm temperatures without extreme heat).
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Bathing in the ancient thermal pools of Hierapolis and gazing at the views of the unique travertine terraces and the surrounding countryside! 

6. Butterfly Valley

I thought this picturesque canyon was like paradise! I found it to be a breathtaking and secluded spot with scenery consisting of dramatic cliffs that encased a serene, untouched sandy beach, dreamy turquoise waters, and lashing of surrounding greenery. It was also a special place because of the thousands of butterflies that I saw congregating in the trees and bright pink flowers behind the beach which gave me a spectacular show of pretty colors!

Although the real highlight was seeing the thousands of butterflies (hence its name) which lived in the trees behind the beach which I saw when I visited in the summer months creating a dramatic kaleidoscope colors! I was completely enchanted by its unspoilt, rustic and eco-friendly charm – it felt tranquil and almost mystical! 

• Location: southwestern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: summer (for butterflies and turquoise waters).
• Activities on offer: swimming, hiking, camping, butterfly watching.
• Accommodation: camping on the beach, Butterfly Valley Bungalows, basic eco-friendly lodges.
• Map Location and Directions

7. Kas

I thought it was a very charming seaside town! I thought it was a Mediterranean gem with its picturesque blend of whitewashed buildings adorned with colorful bougainvillea flowers, quaint cobbled streets, artisan shops, friendly street cafes, white pebble beaches and unbelievably clear turquoise waters all set against a backdrop of the dramatic Taurus Mountains. I particularly loved its very laid-back, bohemian vibe, and the fact that it attracted a great mix of artists, backpackers and tourists.

I found it located along the Mediterranean Sea, in part of the Antalya Province in the southwestern coast of the country. It’s nestled between the sea and the mountains, offering dramatic views and easy access to both beach and hiking activities. It has a history dating back to the ancient Lycian civilization, with origins believed to date as far back as the 4th century BC. Today it has  population of around 7,000 people and is scattered with ruins and tombs. 

I flew into Antalya Airport and from there it was a three hour drive and I stayed for a gorgeous week. I mostly just relaxed (the picturesque Kaputas Beach was my favorite hangout!) but I also went scuba diving and explored the intriguing sunken city of Kekova, discovered the ancient ruins of Antiphellos, and went for a romantic sunset sail along the gorgeous Turkish Riviera.

• Location: southwestern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: autumn (for warm sea temperatures and quieter streets).
• Activities on offer: paragliding, scuba diving, boat tours, exploring ancient ruins.
• Accommodation: Hotel Aysima, Aqua Princess Hotel, small family-run pensions.
• Map Location and Directions

8. Patara

This was my favorite under-the-radar gem in Turkey! I thought it was a striking place where I found impressive ancient ruins and a very long, golden sandy beach bordered by rolling dunes and the rugged Taurus mountains. The beach was so beautiful it was once voted one of the top beaches in the world by Times Online and I agreed – it really was a special place! I thought the vibe here was unique too – to me it felt serene and untouched with a slight bohemian vibe. 

• Location: southern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: summer (for beach relaxation and clear weather).
• Activities on offer: sunbathing, swimming, visiting ancient ruins, bird watching.
• Accommodation: Patara Delfin Hotel, Patara Viewpoint Hotel, budget guesthouses near the beach.
• Map Location and Directions

9. Fethiye

I thought this was a wonderful port city! I found that it was very easy-on-the-eye with a pretty natural harbor enveloped by rugged cliffs, a charming old town filled with traditional stone houses, and nearby pristine beaches and wonderfully clear azure waters. I liked that it had a a lively yet laid-back vibe, with a unique blend of both traditional Turkish culture mixed in with modern tourist amenities!

I found it tucked away in on the coast of the Turquoise Riviera, near the base of the Taurus Mountains and close to the island of Rhodes in Greece and the Blue Lagoon in the Aegean region of the country. Its history has origins as the ancient city of Telmessos, as early as the 5th century BC, and through the years have seen Lycian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman rule.

I came here when I was visiting the Ölüdeniz Beach (which was part of the Blue Lagoon) and from there it was only a 20 minute drive. I spent an idyllic three days here mostly relaxing on Çalış Beach (which was a mix of pebbles and sand) which had a lively promenade lined with restaurants and bars.

I also discovered the ancient rock tombs of Telmessos also located here, strolled through the charming streets of the Old Town, relaxed on the beautiful beaches of Ölüdeniz, take a boat trip to the secluded Butterfly Valley, and watched the paragliders off Babadağ Mountain. 

• Location: southwestern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: spring (for blooming nature and comfortable weather).
• Activities on offer: boat tours, scuba diving, paragliding, exploring local markets.
• Accommodation: Yacht Classic Hotel, Hillside Beach Club, budget hotels and guesthouses in town.
• Map Location and Directions

10. Dilek Peninsula-Buyuk Menderes Delta National Park

Dilek Penninsular-Buryuk Menderes Delta National Park was established in 1966 among the older Turkish National Parks, and I think this place is just sublime! 

It is also known as one of the most diverse wildlife parks in the country, with hundreds of species found within its borders. If you truly want to see it all in one park, this is the one to visit.

It has everything from mountains to pristine waters, so bring your gear and enjoy your time at Dilek Penninsular-Buyuk Menderes Delta National Park.

• Location: western part of the country.
• Best time to visit: spring (for wildlife viewing and moderate temperatures).
• Activities on offer: hiking, wildlife viewing, swimming, picnicking.
• Accommodation: camping within the park, lodges in nearby Kusadasi.
• Map Location and Directions

11. Iztuzu Beach, Dalyan

This is a nesting ground for one of the rarer creatures in the country. The loggerhead turtle nests annually on the beach, and if you are lucky enough to visit between May and September, you might catch a glimpse of these impressive creatures making their way to the ocean.

Beach officials work diligently to stake off nesting sites and protect the delicate turtles from overzealous tourists and other predators.

• Location: southwestern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: summer (to witness loggerhead turtle nesting season).
• Activities on offer: swimming, turtle watching, sunbathing, boat trips.
• Accommodation: BC Spa Hotel, Dalyan Resort, local pensions.
• Map Location and Directions

12. Ayvalik

Located on the Northern Aegean Coast of Turkey, Ayvalik is considered the prettiest coastal town in the country. It faces the Greek Island of Lesbos, and therefore, the two cultures seem to come together in this fantastic space.

Ancient buildings depicting Greek architecture remain a massive staple in the city of Ayvalik, and this classic notion mixes perfectly with modern life in the area. Those looking for a unique place to explore find Ayvalik ideal. Remember your camera, as you will want to take many pictures.

• Location: northwestern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: summer (for enjoying the coastal town and sea breeze).
• Activities on offer: exploring Greek architecture, boat tours, swimming, photography.
• Accommodation: Cunda House Hotel, Macaron Konagi, boutique hotels in town.
• Map Location and Directions

13. Side

Relaxation is everywhere you look on the Side. The city is a large-scale resort, but you would be wrong if you think you will be brought into an area with noisy tourists and a lot of confusion. 

The site has made it its mission to ensure every guest enjoys their stay in this remarkably laid-back beach town.

Roman sculptures and the illustrious Taurus Mountains offer a backdrop to the city that makes visitors return. Beaches are provided on either side of this Peninsula, so you can visit both and choose your favorite.

• Location: southern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: spring (for warm, pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds).
• Activities on offer: visiting Roman ruins, beach relaxation, boat tours, shopping.
• Accommodation: Barut Hemera, Side Star Beach Hotel, all-inclusive resorts.
• Map Location and Directions

14. Icmeler

Located on the Datcha Peninsula, Idmeler is another resort city, but rest assured, it is a city all the same. Again, this is an area of the country where you can go from sea to mountains in just a matter of kilometers. 

Hiking and all forms of water activities are available here, and as in classic Turkish style, crystal clear waters abound. Apart from being beautiful, tourists note that the area is spotless, with abundant toilets and showers for public use.

Friendly residence adds to Icmeler’s overall charm, making it a top destination any time of the year.

• Location: southwestern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: summer (for beach activities and crystal clear waters).
• Activities on offer: swimming, hiking, water sports, exploring local shops.
• Accommodation: Marti Resort, Grand Yazici Club Marmaris Palace, family-friendly hotels.
• Map Location and Directions

15. Koprulu Canyon

Koprulu Canyon offers ultimate beauty and fun. A national park, It provides the opportunity to hike, bike, kayak, and whitewater raft in one location.

Whether you want to relax under the stars or enjoy a white-knuckle adventure, Korulu Canyon is the place to go. The canyon is over 14 km long, so much time can be spent enjoying the water or simply hiking the cliffs surrounding Koprulu Canyon.

• Location: southern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: summer (for rafting and other outdoor activities).
• Activities on offer: whitewater rafting, hiking, camping, kayaking.
• Accommodation: camping sites, Koprulu Canyon Bungalows, nearby lodges in Manavgat.
• Map Location and Directions

16. Antalya

Antalya is best known as the Turkish Riviera and, I think, the most stunning part of the Mediterranean coastline. It blends thriving modern city and ancient history on your doorstep, boutique hotels, and restored Ottoman mansions.

Heading into the mountains, you can make the most of the beautiful scenery by visiting the spectacular Düden or Kursunlu waterfalls.

• Location: southern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: autumn (for mild temperatures and fewer tourists).
• Activities on offer: visiting waterfalls, exploring old town, beach relaxation, visiting museums.
• Accommodation: Akra Hotel, Tuvana Hotel, boutique hotels in Kaleici.
• Map Location and Directions

17. Ankara

Ruggedly and rustically beautiful, Ankara is the country’s capital. It is the country’s second-largest city after Istanbul and the center of the Turkish government.

It has historically been a vital and much-fought-over crossroads of trade. The city was famous for its long-haired Angora goat and prized wool mohair.

The historical center of Ankara is situated upon a rocky hill that rises 150 meters above the plain on the left bank of the Sakarya River’s tributary.

• Location: central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: spring (for exploring the city comfortably).
• Activities on offer: exploring historical sites, visiting museums, walking through markets.
• Accommodation: Divan Ankara, Swissotel Ankara, budget hotels in Kizilay.
• Map Location and Directions

18. Temple of Hadrian

The facade of this ancient and wondrous temple has four Corinthian columns supporting an exquisite curved arch, the middle of which contains a relief of Tyche, the goddess of victory.

Although the carvings are replicas, with the originals in Ephesus, the quality and setting transport you back in time.

The pedestals with inscriptions in front of the temple are the bases for the statues of various emperors. In contrast, inside the temple, above the door, a human figure, probably Medusa, stands with ornaments of acanthus leaves.

• Location: western part of the country.
• Best time to visit: spring (for comfortable sightseeing conditions).
• Activities on offer: sightseeing, exploring ancient architecture, photography.
• Accommodation: hotels in Selcuk, Celsus Boutique Hotel, budget guesthouses near Ephesus.
• Map Location and Directions

19. Alanya

Alanya is a paradise of sun, sea, and sand. If you want more cultural vibrancy, It is a beautiful place to start.

Its pristine sandy beaches, modern hotels, and quality fish restaurants make it a great holiday centre.

The cafes that ring the harbour are popular gathering places for tourists and locals, with three blue flag beaches and many sights, including Damlatas Cave, the Archaeology and Ethnography Museum, and the Dim Çayi Valley.

• Location: southern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: summer (for enjoying beaches and outdoor attractions).
• Activities on offer: beach relaxation, visiting the castle, boat trips, exploring caves.
• Accommodation: Sunprime C-Lounge, Alaiye Resort & Spa, beachfront hotels and apartments.
• Map Location and Directions

20. Kure Mountains National Park

Kure Mountains National Park is a must-see place. Although it has only been an official national park since 2000, its natural beauty will envelop you.

With over 129 bird species, nine amphibian species, and 48 mammals documented so far, there is no limit to what you might see in this beautifully complex national park.

The park’s beauty is not simply a statement made by a few, but something stated by many as Kure Mountains National Park is on the global list of must-see places before you die. Hiking through this area is an exciting and breathtaking experience.

• Location: northern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: autumn (to make the most of the foliage and pleasant hiking).
• Activities on offer: hiking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, exploring caves.
• Accommodation: camping within the park, Kure Dag Evi, eco-lodges nearby.
• Map Location and Directions

21. Northern Cyprus

Half the island of Cyprus belongs to Greece, and the northern part belongs to Turkey; this section isn’t as popular with tourists as the Greek portion, but it’s still filled with gorgeous scenery, superb beaches, and ancient towns waiting to be explored. As it uses the Turkish Lira, it’s also a lot cheaper than its Greek neighbour

My favourite areas include Famagusta, which is located on the east coast, the charming harbour town of Kyrenia (which has a stunning ancient castle), its cosmopolitan capital Nicosia, the ancient city of Salamis and the unspoilt Karpaz Peninsula.

• Location: northeastern part of the island.
• Best time to visit: spring (to enjoy blooming landscapes and mild temperatures).
• Activities on offer: exploring ancient ruins, visiting castles, beach relaxation, enjoying local cuisine.
• Accommodation: Dome Hotel Kyrenia, Merit Crystal Cove, boutique hotels and budget apartments.
• Map Location and Directions

Location of Turkey

Turkey is located partly in Europe and partly in Asia and is bordered by Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Greece and Bulgaria.

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