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16 Most Breathtaking Places To Explore In Turkey
In my opinion, Turkey offers so much more than crowded resorts. I explored beyond the crowds to discover ancient architecture and stunning landscapes, from snow-like natural wonders to hippy beach retreats. Here are my top picks from my many visits…
1. Bodrum
Despite not knowing what to expect, Bodrum really won me over! I found the port city and popular resort to be a captivating blend of ancient and modern architecture, with traditional whitewashed houses trimmed in blue, a mix of lively beaches and peaceful coves, scattered ancient ruins, lush 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.
I found it nestled on the on the Bodrum Peninsula which stretched into the Aegean Sea in the southwestern coast of the country. It dates back to the 12th century BC and was historically known as Halicarnassus. It was once famous for housing the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and today has an estimated population of around 200,000.
I took an international flight into Milas-Bodrum Airport and then a 45 minute shuttle ride and I stayed for a blissful week relaxing on beautiful beaches (the lively Gumbet and the peaceful Bitez were my favorites!).
I also explored the ancient Castle of St. Peter that houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, strolled through the cosmopolitan marina, sampled the nightlife along Bar Street, and discovered the interesting ruins of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus.
- Location: southwestern part of the country.
- Best time to visit: spring and summer
- Activities on offer: swimming, snorkelling, boat tours, scuba diving, shopping
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Staying at the 4-star boutique Faros Bodrum Hotel – I loved the trendy decor, my four poster bed and sunbathing on the pontoon overlooking the sea – they even bought fresh fruit and chilled towels as I relaxed!
2. Istanbul
I thought this city was intoxicating! 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).
- Activities on offer: visiting iconic landmarks, market, boat tours, traditional hammams, and sampling street food
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Staying at the gorgeous 4-star 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!
3. 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 scenic 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) and hiked the beautiful Love Valley and Rose Valley.
- Location: central part of the country.
- Best time to visit: spring (for hot air balloon rides with clear skies).
- Activities on offer: hot air balloon rides, exploring ancient cave churches and underground cities, hiking through surreal valleys
- Map Location and Directions
My highlights…
4. Antalya
I personally thought this was the most stunning city along the Mediterranean coastline! I found an enchanting blend of ancient Roman architecture, long, wide golden sand beaches, a mix of family-friendly and boutique hotels, and restored Ottoman mansions all set against a backdrop of rugged mountains and the shimmering azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
I was equally taken with the vibe which was lively and eclectic with a charm of its historical heritage mixed with an energy of a modern seaside resort.
I found it located on the southwestern coast within the region known as the Turkish Riviera. It dates back to the Roman era, is one of the country’s most populous cities with a population of over one million residents and is also a major tourist destination.
I flew directly into Antalya Airport and stayed for a week on a summer break. I explored the historic old town of Kaleiçi which had narrow cobbled streets and interesting Ottoman-era architecture, visited the impressive Düden Waterfalls, relaxed on the renowned Konyaaltı and Lara Beaches, discovered ancient ruins at Aspendos and Perge, and sampled the lively nightlife located along the marina!
- Location: southern part of the country.
- Best time to visit: autumn (for mild temperatures and fewer tourists).
- Activities on offer: exploring ancient ruins, swimming, visiting waterfalls, scenic cable car ride
- Map Location and Directions
My favourite highlights…
- Staying at the trendy Ashta Nordic Suite – I really liked the Scandi-chic style decor, the huge in-room jacuzzi and the intimate, boutique vibe!
5. 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: swimming, scuba diving, snorkelling, sailing to nearby islands
- Map Location and Directions
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the contemporary boutique retreat Novva Hotel – I loved the views of the shimmering Mediterranean Sea from my Loft Suite, the modern spa, the private beach, and trying a Hatha Yoga class on their garden lawn!
6. 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.
I found it nestled in the Antalya province, on the southwestern coast of Turkey (around 45 kilometers west of Kas) and close to the small town of Gelemiş. It dates back to at least the 7th century BC and was originally established by the Lycians and then it became an important port city under Roman rule.
It’s famous for being the birthplace of Saint Nicholas and is also one of the few remaining nesting sites for the endangered loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta).
I flew into Dalaman Airport, then take a two-hour bus ride drive to the village of Gelemiş, which was the gateway to Patara and I stayed for a dreamy week mostly relaxing on the gorgeous s 18-kilometer-long beach.
Although, I also explored the remarkable ruins of its ancient city, which included a well-preserved amphitheater and the oldest lighthouse on the Lycian coast, visited the Patara archaeological museum, and gazed at Insta-worthy sunsets views!
- Location: southern part of the country.
- Best time to visit: summer (for beach relaxation and clear weather).
- Activities on offer: swimming, snorkelling exploring the ancient ruins, spotting loggerhead sea turtles
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights….
- Staying at the Golden Lighthouse Hotel – I really liked the contemporary decor, how my room overlooked the hillside and green olive groves and the boho-light vibe!
7. The Blue Lagoon, Oludeniz
I was completely wowed by this Insta-worthy beauty spot! I discovered a stunning protected natural lagoon filled with shimmering brilliant turquoise waters, a gorgeous sandy beach, and stunning backdrop of emerald hills and rugged mountains. It felt like a truly special place – peaceful, yet with an almost otherworldly, dreamlike vibe!
- Location: southwest part of the country.
- Best time to visit: summer
- Activities on offer – swimming, paragliding, boat tours, snorkelling, and hiking the scenic Lycian Way.
- Map Location and Directions
My favourite highlights…
- Going on an awesome tandem paragliding flight from summit of Mount Babadağ and seeing sunbathers dotting the curved sandy spit below, and even a super-cute loggerhead turtle swimming near the shore!
8. Butterfly Valley
I thought this picturesque canyon was like paradise! I found it to be a breathtaking and secluded spot, with dramatic cliffs enclosing a serene, untouched sandy beach, dreamy turquoise waters, and lush greenery all around. 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 colours!
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!
I discovered it tucked away within the Fethiye district of Muğla Province on the southwestern coast (near the town of Ölüdeniz). It’s a been protected nature reserve since the 1980s due to its unique flora and fauna, over 80 butterfly species including the Jersey Tiger, and is uninhabited except for seasonal visitors. I really admired that it had a strict conservation policy to preserve its natural beauty.
I took a 40 minute boat ride on a day trip from Ölüdeniz when I was visiting the Blue Lagoon and relaxed and swimming on the pristine beach gazing at the unique scenery! I also had time to hike up to the stunning waterfall located behind the valley.
- Location: southwestern part of the country.
- Best time to visit: summer (for butterflies and turquoise waters).
- Activities on offer – swimming, hiking to a hidden waterfall, spotting butterflies, camping under the stars, boat trips from Ölüdeniz.
- Map Location and Directions
My highlights…
- Staying at the unique 4-star boutique aparthotel Ansira Fethiye – I loved seeing the sweeping views of Fethiye Bay from my hot tub balcony, the chic boho vibe and the organic toiletries.
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.
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Staying at the chic and trendy 4-star Ansira Fethiye – I loved my huge in-room jacuzzi, my spacious room, the high quality linens and the coastal charm vibe!
10. 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. I loved how 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 in the quirky 4-star Sinter Terasse House Hotel 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).
- Activities on offer: soaking in the warm, mineral-rich pools, swimming among ancient ruins in the Antique Pool, explore the ancient city of Hierapolis
- 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 – tiny white calcium deposits clung to my skin like glitter!
11. Alanya
I really enjoying staying at this beach resort city! It thought it was a gorgeous place – there was the majestic Alanya Castle perched on a rocky peninsula, sparkling turquoise waters, long pale gold sandy beaches, historic Seljuk architecture and a mix of tasteful low-rise modern resorts and small boutique guest houses.
I really liked how it felt both relaxing but there was still a buzz – there was a heady mix of bustling bazaars, busy bars and modern nightlife but it was still fiercely proud of its historical heritage and well-preserved ancient ruins.
I found it nestled like a jewel along the Mediterranean Sea in the Antalya Province southeastern coast. It’s situated approximately 135 kilometers east of the city of Antalya. It apparently dated back to the Paleolithic era but became significantly prominent around the 4th century BC when it was known as Coracesium.
It later flourished under Roman and Byzantine rule before becoming a key city in the Seljuk Sultanate in the 13th century. Today it’s home to around 312,000 residents as well as being a popular tourist destination with no less than three blue flag beaches.
I flew directly into Antalya Airport and then I drove for two hours to the city and stayed for a dreamy week at the gorgeous boutique Cook’s Club Alanya mostly relaxing in the swimming pool and the famous Cleopatra Beach.
Although, I also explored the historic Alanya Castle and its Red Tower, ventured into the Damlatas Caves which had incredible stalactites, enjoyed panoramic views from the Alanya Cable Car, went river rafting in the pretty Dim Çayi Valley, learnt about the area’s interesting history at the Archaeology and Ethnography Museum and sampled the local cuisine in the bustling Alanya Bazaar.
- Location: southern part of the country.
- Best time to visit: summer (for enjoying beaches and outdoor attractions).
- Activities on offer: swimming, snorkelling, boat rides, Damlataş Cave, cable car, boat trips.
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Hanging out at the cafes that circled the harbour – it was an awesome experience to drink aromatic Türk Kahvesi (Turkish Coffee) and rose-flavored lokum at the Ravza Restaurant & Cafe while gazing out at the sea and Alanya Castle.
12. Side
I really enjoyed visiting this coastal town! I thought it was very picturesque with a unique mix of both ancient history and natural beauty. I saw striking Greco-Roman architectural ruins set against a backdrop of long golden sandy beaches framed by the sparkling turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. I really liked its small beach town vibe which was mixed with an old-world charm.
Established around the 7th century BC as a Greek colony I discovered it located on the Antalya Province, situated between the cities of Antalya and Alanya on the southern Mediterranean coast of the country.
I drove an hour from Antalya and spent a relaxing three days at Side Aquamarin Resort & Spa which had a private beach and I squeezed in exploring the interesting ancient ruins of the Roman amphitheater and Temple of Apollo, strolled along the charming harbor, relaxed on the stunning East and West Beaches, shopped in the local markets, and dined in the charming waterfront restaurants.
- 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.
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Tying Şakşuka which was a delicious cold meze of fried eggplants, potatoes, and peppers topped with a rich tomato and garlic sauce and generously drizzled with olive oil.
13. Ayvalik 
This was one of my favorite under-the-radar destinations! I actually thought it was one of the prettiest coastal towns I’d visited in the country with its charming, narrow cobbled streets lined with traditional Greek-style buildings, gorgeous beaches filled with soft, golden sands and clean, clear waters which were a striking shade of turquoise. I was also sucked in by its laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere and its slight bohemian vibe and artistic flair!
I found it nestled on the Greek island of Lesbos on northwestern Aegean coast of the country (near the city of Balıkesir). It dates back to the 16th century when it was established as a significant settlement during the Ottoman Empire and was mostly populated by Greeks so today it has a fascination mix of both Greek and Turkish cultures as well as a population of 30,000 permanent residents.
I took a 5 hour bus ride from Istanbul and stayed for a very relaxing four days at the chic and trendy Ayvalık Sea Long. I found that was enough time to explore the historic Cunda Island which had quaint streets and restored stone houses, sample the local olive oil-based dishes, relax on the pristine Sarımsaklı Beach, visit the ancient Taksiyarhis Church turned museum, and take a scenic boat ride to the surrounding archipelago, which included the Ayvalık Islands Nature Park which I saw was a ecological paradise!
- Location: northwestern part of the country.
- Best time to visit: summer (for enjoying the coastal town and sea breeze).
- Activities on offer: relaxing on beaches, swimming, historic sites and nature park
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Trying Zeytinyağlı Barbunya which was a hearty dish of creamy borlotti beans slowly cooked with tomatoes, onions, carrots, and plenty of delicious local olive oil!
14. Icmeler
I was completely charmed by this popular beach resort town! I found a gem filled with stunning natural beauty with broad sandy beaches that gently sloped into the ultra-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, tasteful low-rise buildings and a striking backdrop of wonderful green mountains! It felt relaxing and welcoming and I thought was ideal for families and couples seeking a more peaceful retreat away from the busier tourist spots.
I discovered it located on the Datcha Peninsula, around 8 kilometers southwest of Marmaris, in the province of Mugla on the southwestern coast of the country. It was once a sleepy fishing village, has transformed into a popular tourist destination with a population that swells significantly during the summer months.
I drove 15 minutes from the busier resort of Marmaris and stayed there for four days mostly just kicking back and relaxing on the beach. Although I also went scuba diving and jet skiing, hiked through pine-forested trails in the surrounding mountains, enjoyed a boat trip to explore the nearby islands, and checked out the bustling markets (I loved the fresh mulberries and simit, sesame-encrusted bread rings) and local eateries serving up traditional Turkish cuisine!
- Location: southwestern part of the country.
- Best time to visit: summer (for beach activities and crystal clear waters).
- Activities on offer: sunbathing, swimming, scenic hikes, jet skiing, parasailing, boat trips, market
- Map Location and Directions
My highlights…
- I really liked how spotless and pristine looking the beach was! There were also plenty of toilets and showers for public use, a lifeguard and water sports equipment rentals including jet skis and paddle-boards!
15. Koprulu Canyon
I loved this stunning natural gorge! I found breathtaking scenery consisting of towering rocky cliffs, unspoilt Mediterranean vegetation, and clear turquoise waters of the Köprüçay River. I really liked how it exuded both an adventurous and exhilarating vibe!
I found it tucked like like a hidden jewel in the Antalya Province of Turkey, around 90 kilometers northeast of Antalya city, within the Köprülü Canyon National Park. It was established in 1973, is home to the rare Anatolian leopard, mountain goats, foxes, and a range of birds and it attracts outdoor adventure and nature lovers.
I drove 1.5 hours from Antalya and stayed for full day. I went whitewater rafting and kayaking on the Köprüçay River, hiked scenic trails and saw views of the ancient Roman Oluk Bridge and Büğrüm Bridge and zip-lining across the gorge, which was a little scary but a lot of fun too!
- 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
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Staying overnight at the Gökçesu Camping Site – I really liked their facilities which included a good sized shower block, a market, cute picnic tables right by the river, laundry facilities and even organized rafting activities on the Köprüçay River!
16. Ankara
This is the capital city of Turkey! I thought it was easy-on-the eye city and I really liked its striking contrast between the ancient Ankara Castle and the modern architectural skyline as well as its green parks and avenues lined with impressive embassies and stately museums. There were some areas with a less charming urban sprawl and congestion but overall I really liked its sophisticated and youthful energy which was driven by its large student population!
I found it located in the central part of the country, positioned in the heart of the Anatolian plateau and was established as the capital of Turkey in 1923 to centralize governance away from the Ottoman imperial capital of Istanbul. It currently has a population of over 5.5 million people and is a hub for political, educational, and cultural activities.
I flew into Esenboğa Airport and stayed for a long weekend at the romantic and unique hotel Divan Cukurhan and that was enough time to discover its main sights.
I visited the impressive Anıtkabir (the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk), explored the ancient Ankara Castle, discovered the city’s intriguing history at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, enjoyed a picnic in Gençlik Park, and shopped for crafts and spices at the historic Ulus Market.
- Location: central part of the country.
- Best time to visit: spring (for exploring the city comfortably).
- Activities on offer: historic sights, shopping, city views
- Map Location and Directions
My highlights…
- Stocking up on the aromatic spices of sumac, pul biber (crushed red pepper), and dried mint ready to try Turkish cooking for when I got back home!
