Turkey is one of the most unique countries in the world because it is part of two continents, both Europe and Asia. Turkey has a long and complicated history which makes it such an intriguing country to visit. You can experience a unique city vibe in Istanbul, explore the captivating Cappadocia region with its unusual landscapes or relax on the Turquoise Coast. Turkey really does have it all, no matter your budget or travel style!
Istanbul
Istanbul is one of the best places to visit in Turkey. This city is bursting at the seams with culture! Visit the stunning Blue Mosque in Sultanahmet or grab a traditional Turkish coffee at a local café. Wander through the Spice Bazaar and eat the best fish sandwich of your life in Karakoy. Don’t forget to venture over to the Asian side for a more laidback vibe and delicious food!
Cappadocia
When you think of Turkey, the stunning Cappadocia region probably comes to mind. This is where over one hundred hot air balloons fill the skies at sunrise almost every morning. Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia is a bucket-list activity however there are plenty more incredible things to do in Cappadocia!
One of the best things to do in Cappadocia is to stay overnight at a cave hotel in Goreme. Most cave hotels have a viewing terrace where you can watch the hot air balloons fly straight overhead! Visit the famous Love Valley, Red Valley, and Pigeon Valley to witness the most incredible natural landscapes you will ever see in your life. You can even go for a sunset horse ride or take an ATV tour through these breath-taking valleys.
Pammukale
Pammukale features one of the most unique natural phenomena in the world, the Travertines of Pammukale. Also known as the ‘cotton castle’ due to the calcium carbonate forming the bright white terraces on the hillside. Mineral rich water trickles into the travertines creating pools of milky blue water that are a beautiful sight to see! You can bathe in the pools and walk around the surprisingly grippy travertines. The entry ticket to the Travertines of Pammukale also includes entry to the ancient city of Hierapolis which is worth exploring while you are there.
Ephesus
Ephesus is one of the most well-preserved ancient roman cities on Earth! A must visit for anyone travelling Turkey’s turquoise coast. At Ephesus you will walk the same streets the Romans once walked while marvelling at the beautiful mosaics floors that are thousands of years old. The star of the show is the Library of Celsus that once held 12,000 scrolls! This is considered to be one of the oldest libraries in the world.
Fethiye
Fethiye is the largest town on the Turquoise Coast. It is the ideal location to take a boat trip out to explore the 12 islands or the famous Butterfly Valley. Make sure to catch the sunset with a leisurely stroll along the marina. If you are looking to relax, why not indulge in a traditional hammam, also known as a Turkish bath. Fethiye have many hammams to choose from, hammams are often separated by gender however there are hammams that accept mixed gender couples too.
Cannakale
The main reason to stay in Cannakale is to sail across the Bosphorus Strait to visit the famous Gallipoli War Zone. Locations of significance you will want to include on your itinerary are ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Memorial, Beach Cemetery, Chunuk Bair and The Nek. The Cannukale Destani museum is well worth a visit and explains the Turkish point of view of the Gallipoli war. Cannakale is the perfect base for a day trip out to the ancient city of Troy of which the famous movie ‘Troy’ is based off.
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