Turkey's Most Beautiful Destinations
Nine places worth planning a trip around, with the attractions, food, and logistics for each.
Best Time to Visit
April-May and September-November
Recommended Duration
3-5 days
Category
Cultural Heritage
Top Things to Do in Istanbul
Hagia Sophia – Marvel at this architectural masterpiece that served as both church and mosque
Blue Mosque – See the blue Iznik tiles and six minarets of Sultan Ahmed Mosque
Grand Bazaar – Navigate through 4,000 shops in one of the world's oldest covered markets
Bosphorus Cruise – Sail between continents and see the city's skyline from the water
Topkapi Palace – Explore the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans for 400 years
Best Time to Visit
April-June and September-October
Recommended Duration
4-7 days
Category
Beach & History
Top Things to Do in Antalya
Kaleiçi Old Town – Wander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with Ottoman houses
Düden Waterfalls – Witness spectacular waterfalls cascading directly into the Mediterranean
Aspendos Theatre – Visit one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world
Konyaaltı Beach – Relax on the long pebble beach west of the city center
Perge Ancient City – Explore well-preserved ruins including stadium, theater, and Roman baths
Best Time to Visit
April-June and September-November
Recommended Duration
3-4 days
Category
Natural Wonder
Top Things to Do in Cappadocia
Hot Air Balloon Ride – Float above fairy chimneys at sunrise for views over the whole valley
Göreme Open Air Museum – Discover rock-cut churches with Byzantine frescoes dating to 4th century
Derinkuyu Underground City – Explore the deepest underground city reaching 8 levels below ground
Love Valley – Hike through unique phallic-shaped rock formations and fairy chimneys
Cave Hotels – Sleep in authentic cave rooms carved into volcanic rock
Best Time to Visit
May-October
Recommended Duration
3-5 days
Category
Adventure & Beach
Top Things to Do in Fethiye
Ölüdeniz Blue Lagoon – Swim in the famous turquoise waters of this protected nature reserve
Paragliding from Babadağ – Soar 1,969 meters above sea level for spectacular aerial views
Butterfly Valley – Hike to this secluded beach accessible only by boat or challenging trek
Lycian Rock Tombs – Marvel at ancient tombs carved into cliffsides dating to 4th century BC
12 Islands Boat Tour – Island-hop through pristine bays and hidden coves
Best Time to Visit
April-June and September-October
Recommended Duration
2-4 days
Category
Diving & Culture
Top Things to Do in Kaş
Scuba Diving – Explore underwater caves, reefs, and the famous Blue Cave
Lycian Sarcophagi – Discover ancient stone tombs scattered throughout the town
Kaputaş Beach – Visit this small beach with turquoise water at the bottom of a gorge
Kekova Sunken City – Take a boat tour to see ancient ruins submerged underwater
Patara Beach – Relax on this 18km stretch of pristine sand and ancient ruins
Best Time to Visit
May-October
Recommended Duration
3-6 days
Category
Resort & Nightlife
Top Things to Do in Marmaris
Marmaris Marina – Stroll along the luxury yacht-filled harbor and waterfront promenade
Marmaris Castle – Explore this 16th-century Ottoman fortress with panoramic bay views
Dalyan River Cruise – Take a boat trip to see ancient Lycian rock tombs and Iztuzu Beach
Bar Street – The center of the town's nightlife, packed with clubs in summer
Cleopatra Island – Visit this day-trip destination with unique golden sand beaches
Best Time to Visit
May-October
Recommended Duration
3-5 days
Category
Luxury & History
Top Things to Do in Bodrum
Bodrum Castle – Visit this impressive 15th-century Crusader castle housing the underwater archaeology museum
Bodrum Marina – Experience luxury shopping, dining, and yacht watching in this upscale harbor
Ancient Theatre of Halicarnassus – Explore ruins of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
Windmills of Bodrum – Photograph the white windmills on the ridge above the harbor
Beach Clubs – Enjoy sophisticated beach culture at venues like Nikki Beach and Xuma Beach
Best Time to Visit
April-June and September-November
Recommended Duration
2-4 days
Category
Urban & Ancient
Top Things to Do in İzmir
Ephesus Ancient City – Day trip to one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world
Kemeraltı Bazaar – Shop in this historic covered market dating back to the 17th century
Kordon Waterfront – Walk along the scenic Aegean coastline promenade
Alsancak District – Bars, cafes, and restaurants in the city's main going-out district
Izmir Clock Tower – Visit the Ottoman-era landmark at the center of Konak Square
Best Time to Visit
April-June and September-November
Recommended Duration
1-2 days
Category
Natural Wonder
Top Things to Do in Pamukkale
Travertine Terraces – Walk barefoot on the famous white calcium carbonate formations
Hierapolis Ancient City – Explore well-preserved ruins including theater, necropolis, and Roman baths
Antique Pool – Swim in thermal waters among ancient marble columns (Cleopatra's Pool)
Pamukkale Museum – Learn about the area's geological formation and archaeological finds
Hot Air Balloon Ride – See the white terraces from above during sunrise flights