Tourist Spots in Turkey : All you need to Know

Turkey is among the world’s most visited countries for tourism. Travellers can expect many different experiences and things to do which that will leave a lasting impression, and make your vacation memorable. Here are 15 top tourist attractions to visit in Turkey that will make your vacation great:

List of The Best Tourist Attractions in Turkey

1. Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia is known as one of the ancient world’s most important monuments. It’s a spectacular religious building located in Istanbul, which is also called the 8th wonder of the world and a famous tourist attraction. Here, you’ll witness incredible mosaics and spectacular forms of different art and architecture.

2. Ephesus

Ephesus is among the best places to visit in Turkey. It holds the largest Roman architectural ruins collection East of the Mediterranean and only 15 percent is unearthed so far. The Celcius Library here is a popular attraction. This region brings archaeologists, historians, and thousands of tourists to see the ruins. The city was also known for the Temple of Artemis, which is among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

3. Cappadocia

Cappadocia is a historical site with unique cliffs shaped throughout millions of years through water and wind altering the land. The churches here are rock-cut and are preserved really well, ranging from small sizes, hidden in caves, to even multi-cave structures. Some sites to visit here are Kaymakli, Derinkuyu, Goreme, Avanos and Uchisar towns. You can discover the place on foot but most prefer to catch see the landscape from a ride on a hot-air balloon.

4. Pamukkale

Pamukkale is in the Southwestern region of Denizli. It stands over Hierapolis’, an ancient city’s ruins. This place is famous for the white limestone travertines which are shaped by hot springs filled with calcium and have been used as a centre of thermal treatment for millennia. This is a unique place worth seeing.

5. Mount Nemrut

Located in Southeast Turkey on the Taurus Mountains is Mount Nemrut, a fantastic destination. The gods’ statues on the East and West around the mountain, along with Temple Zeus’ remains, are known to be King Antiochus I’s resting place. These massive statues once guarded Mount Nemrut, but today, unfortunately they crumbled down. But even the remains are still magnificent.

6. Sumela Monastery

Sumela Monastery, constructed in the 4th century, is among the world’s oldest monasteries. Located outside Trabzon city, it sits atop the majestic Zigana Mountains. It has a brilliant architectural design and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The monastery attracts many spiritual seekers and architecture enthusiasts.

7. Topkapi Palace

The Topkapi Palace is a wonderful place to visit. It shows the Ottoman sultan’s royal lifestyle. It was the Turks’ main residence and in 1924, and was transformed into a museum. The palace museum has various chambers and grand rooms. Some things you’ll see here are the spoonmaker’s diamond, royal treasury, Topkapi dagger, weapons, Ottoman clothing, manuscripts, and armours.

8. Ani

Ani was founded over 1600 years ago as a Silk Road city. It was walled-in and borders Armenia. It’s no longer inhabited. It was destroyed due to Mongol raids, trade routes issues, and earthquakes. Among many ruins, the prominent ones are – Church of the Redeemer and the Church of St. Gregory. The ruins are mesmerizing, elaborate, and represent the city that was once powerful.

9. Aspendos

This site is incredible and home to a huge Roman theatre. During the rule of Marcus Aurelius, the theatre hosted many festivals and cultural performances. Today, the annual Ballet Festival and Aspendos Opera are hosted. This historic location has incredible acoustics that results in quite an experience.

10. Cruising the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean Sea is an exquisite sight to enjoy. Cruising down the coastline is a must here. On the cruise, you’ll glide through the blue waters, forest-clad slopes, and white sand beaches. Apart from amazing sites, the coast has several incredible activities like visiting historic locations, eating exquisite Turkish cuisine, and visiting Marmaris or Fethiye.

11. Oludeniz

Oludeniz is known as the most famous beach in Turkey. It has blue-green waters and is surrounded by lush forest. You can relax, sunbathe and swim in the waters. It is also known for paragliding. Do this and catch an excellent aerial view.

12. Pergamon

Founded in the 3rd century BC, Pergamon is a remote coastal town that holds immense history. A recognizable ruin here is the Acropolis, an iconic library now in ruins. There’s also a gymnasium, marketplace, and temples of Hera and Demeter.

13. Patara

Patara is Turkey’s longest beach. It has many famous beach cafes and sunbeds and umbrellas. You can also witness the sunset and moonrise from a nearby dune top. It is an enchanting place and one of the most famous and visited places in Turkey.

14. Kabak Bay

Kabak Bay is a break from city life. Here, you’ll enjoy swimming, sunbathing, relaxing, and snorkelling. The beach is usually crowded but is still an enjoyable place to relax. There are also sumptuous meals served with olives, tomatoes, pickles, and lots more.

15. Antalya

Antalya is the 5th most populous city in Turkey and has the best beaches in Europe. You’ll love Old Town structures from the Ottoman era. Hadrian’s Gate is among the most famous sites here built in the honour of the Roman emperor. The beaches are famous for luxurious resorts and entertainment.

Now that you’ve read about the incredible tourist attractions in Turkey, what are you waiting for? Start packing and enjoy!