is turkey tourist friendly

Is Turkey Worth Visiting? 12 Best Things To Do In Turkey

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 41 mins read
• Post last modified: February 8, 2024
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Turkey is one of my favorite countries in the world. I understand why you might ask: Is Turkey worth visiting? The country often gets many controversial opinions . I spent 15 days traveling in Turkey , which was one of my life’s best experiences.

So in this article, I’ll answer your question about whether Turkey is worth visiting, give you tips for traveling in the country, and discuss the best things you can’t miss on your Turkey bucket list.

Ready to explore Turkey? Let’s get into it.

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

Is Turkey Worth Visiting? Revealed!

Yes , Turkey is very much worth visiting. From the friendliness of locals and the exceptional hospitality they provide to the crystal-clear sea with beautiful beaches , unique landscapes , and interesting historical landmarks and culture , Turkey is undoubtedly worth visiting.

So look no further. If the country interests you, you should start planning your itinerary.

Click on the image below and follow my 10-day Turkish itinerary to see its highlights.

12 Reasons To Visit & Best Things To Do In Turkey

Now that you know Turkey is worth visiting, let me give you some details about what you should visit in Turkey .

Out of my experience traveling in Turkey, I’m giving you the 12 best things to do in Turkey below. So plan your itinerary accordingly to see and experience the highlights .

1. Visit Pamukkale

Pamukkale, also known as the cotton castle of Turkey , is an area famous for beautiful travertine terraces formed by the flowing thermal springs. The calcium carbonate crystallizes on these terraces into the travertine, creating this natural beauty.

You can walk through these terraces barefoot to the top. After, visit the thermal springs and admire the stunning Hierapolis theatre.

You can buy tickets on the spot .

👉 READ ALSO: 19 Best Things To Do In Pamukkale Turkey

PRO TIP: Visit Pamukkale’s travertine terraces in the morning right after opening . You’ll avoid tourist crowds and get to enjoy it more. I think it’s not worth visiting the top thermal baths. But go to the Hiearapolis theatre.

2. Explore Cappadocia

Cappadocia is a must on your Turkey travel list . It’s one of the most picturesque places in the world.

It comprises several small towns , traditional caves , and a unique landscape with castles and natural wonders.

👉 READ ALSO: 9 Best Cappadocia Tours From Istanbul Is Cappadocia Safe To Visit? Top Safety Tips For Travel

Main Cities In Cappadocia & Tours To Take

The main city is Nevsehir , where you can fly or take a bus from other major Turkish cities. The most charming town is Göreme , where I recommend you stay (in a traditional cave).

Other popular towns in Cappadocia are Uschisar , Cavusin , and Ürgüp .

You can choose to do three main tours (green, red, and blue), during which you can explore the highlights of Cappadocia .

Ride A Hot Balloon Above Goreme

You can’t miss riding a traditional balloon in the morning. It’s one of the best travel experiences you can do in Turkey.

If a balloon ride is not for you, watch them from the ground . The best places to watch the Cappadocia balloons are either from your hotel’s rooftop terrace in Göreme or on the Uschisar Castle (opens at 5:00 am).

You can book the balloon ride in Cappadocia via Get Your Guide ( cheaper than on the spot ). Their experiences offer a shuttle from your hotel, a glass of champagne after the ride, unique spots, and a local guide.

Choose one of the balloon experiences by clicking on the images below :

3. Stay In A Traditional Cave Hotel

When visiting Cappadocia, you can’t miss staying in a traditional local cave.

Cappadocia, especially Göreme , has exceptional hotels and hospitality services. Many hotels are built in the local caves , offering travelers a unique experience .

Stay in a cave hotel to get the most out of Cappadocia. Almost all hotels also have a terrace , where you can enjoy traditional Turkish breakfast , views of Cappadocia , and, most importantly, experience thousands of balloons in the morning .

PRO TIP: Wake up at 5:00 am , go to the terrace of your hotel, and watch the stunning balloons riding over Cappadocia . It’s amazing and made me wanna cry.

4. Travel On An Overnight Bus In Turkey

Traveling by overnight buses in Turkey is an experience of a lifetime . I loved the journeys from the start to the very end.

Turkish buses are super comfortable , have clean and spacious seats , and the journey is amazing (even though it can take up to 10 hours). The bus stops regularly (every 2 to 3 hours) at local stations. These stations are bazaars where you can buy food and souvenirs and use the toilets.

So travel at least once on an overnight bus in Turkey : it’s worth it and super comfortable.

You can book the overnight bus online via BusBud or any other online platform.

PRO TIP: I recommend taking a bus from Istanbul to Göreme (Cappadocia) or vice-versa, one of the most popular routes.

5. Enjoy The Beaches Of Southern Turkey

Turkey has some of the best beaches and vacation resorts . Many Europeans choose to spend their vacations on the Turkish beaches near Antalya .

So if you want an all-include holiday , Turkey can be a great place. Look for hotel resorts around Antalya , south of Turkey.

If you’re visiting Turkey alone , you must visit Kaputas Beach . It’s considered to be the most beautiful beach in Turkey . Visit early in the morning to get a spot and avoid tourist crowds . It is beautiful.

You can reach Kaputas Beach by bus from Fethiye or Kas City .

6. Bargain In A Bazaar In Istanbul

Bazaars in Istanbul are crazy. I recommend leaving an entire day in Istanbul shopping and visiting the bazaars.

Try bargaining with the salesmen when you shop for souvenirs. Indeed, they expect you to bargain , so don’t be a typical tourist. Instead, be a traveler , immerse yourself in authentic Turkish culture, and don’t disappoint them. Bargain until you get the best price .

👉 READ ALSO: Istanbul Itinerary for 3 Days – get my tips for bargaining on a Turkish Bazaar

7. Visit Hagia Sophia Mosque & Experience Prayer

Hagia Sophia was originally built as a church back in 325. Constantine, I started the construction of the pagan temple. It remained a church for over 1000 years until it became a mosque.

In 1453 , Sultan Murad II converted it into a mosque when Constantinople (Istanbul today) fell under the Ottoman Empire . Until 1934, Hagia Sophia served as a mosque for over 500 years .

After, it was converted into a museum after the Turkish Government decided to reclaim it as a mosque and reintroduce the prayers.

You can explore Hagia Sophia free of charge by entering the mosque. However, women must cover their heads with a scarf and wear long-sleeve clothes .

It was one of the best experiences for me visiting Hagia Sophia. It has a special vibe .

PRO TIP: The best time to visit Hagia Sophia is between 8:00 and 10:00 p.m. It’s less crowded, and you can experience the prayer . You can just be there and watch if you don’t want to participate. No one will kick you out. So check it out.

8. Get Lost In The Grand Bazaar Of Istanbul

Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is the largest covered market in the world . I recommend having a guide with you because it’s easy to get lost.

Wander around local shops, buy your favorite souvenirs, watch the tea culture and man offering tea and coffee throughout the market, and try to bargain with locals. They love it, so play the bargain game with them.

Be strong, and don’t let yourself be put off by the very salesy Turkish people . They’re just doing their job.

Grand Bazaar is also one of the most popular places worldwide to buy gold .

Overall, the bazaar has approx. 3000 shops and about 61 streets . So yeah, it’s huge and best explored with a local guide .

You can book a guided tour of Grand Bazaar by clicking on the images below:

9. Travel On A Boat From Europe To Asia (Istanbul)

Istanbul is the only city worldwide on two continents , Europe and Asia. And one of the best things to do in the city is to hop on a boat and cruise through the Bosphorus straight from the European side of Istanbul to the Asian side.

It’s a unique experience , so don’t miss it. Now, you’ve stood simultaneously on two continents and were in a single city.

10. Enjoy Traditional Turkish Food

When you’re in Turkey, you can’t miss eating traditional food. My favorite part is the Turkish breakfast which consists of a variety of things, sweet and sour. Honestly, after eating this breakfast (brunch), I didn’t have to eat the rest of the day. So try traditional Turkish breakfast.

Some popular Turkish dishes you have to try are:

• Dönner Kebab
• Meze – typical Turkish appetizers (sauces, hummus, salads, roasted vegetables)
• Börek (my favorite)
• Lahmacun – Turkish pizza
• Dolma – grapre leaves stuffed with rice & meat
• Menemen – classic Turkish scrammbled eggs
• Köfte – meat balls
• Pide – delicious bread with toppings
• Baklava – sweet
• Lökum – Turkish delight
• Turkish tea , coffee , and Ayran

The locals love their tea and coffee . When you walk through the bazaar, you’ll see a man walking around and offering tea or coffee. You can get tea and coffee everywhere.

Turkish coffee is specific, so watch a Turkish man traditionally prepare it for you in hot sand .

Locals also like to drink Ayran with their meals. It’s a salty yogurt drink that you have to try.

11. Learn About Gallipoli WWI Battlefields In Canakkale

Turkey also played a major role in the First World War . One of the most critical battles happened in Canakkale , which is well-known as the Battle of Gallipoli .

It was the campaign where the Allied ships landed on the Gallipoli peninsula near Canakkale. They intended to pass through the Dardanelles and capture Constantinople (nowadays Istanbul) to eliminate Ottoman Turkey from the war .

Today, you can explore Canakkale and learn about this battle in an on-site museum.

Canakkale is a beautiful city where you can explore the Cimelnlik Castle, walk through its promenade , and taste delicious Turkish food .

👉 READ ALSO: 33 Famous Turkey Landmarks To Visit

12. Admire Ephesus – Ancient City

Ephesus is one of the most beautiful landmarks in Turkey . It’s an archaeological site , an ancient city that used to be the Mediterranean’s main commercial center .

You’ll learn a lot about culture throughout history, from Greece up to the Roman Empire. During a guided tour , admire its ancient ruins and excavations , Turkish baths, and the Hadrian Temple.

How To Get To Turkey

Turkey has excellent international connections , so it’s very easy to get to the country. You can get to Turkey by plane , train , or bus .

Getting To Turkey By Plane

The most convenient and easiest way to get to Turkey is to fly in.

Turkey has 2 major airports , in Istanbul and the capital city of Ankara. Both airports have great connections to other major cities worldwide. It’s also easy to reach other parts of Turkey from these airports.

➡ Get the best flight deals to Turkey by clicking this link.

PRO TIP: I suggest flying to Istanbul . It’s the easiest and best place to start your Turkey itinerary . From there, you have connections to other locations in Turkey.

Getting To Turkey By Train

If you want to experience train travel, the best way to get to Turkey by train is to hop on the Orient Express train from Sofia (the capital of Bulgaria). Or do the entire train ride from London to Istanbul. This train ride was featured in the detective story ‘ Murder On The Orient Express ‘ written by Agatha Cristie.

It’s also possible to reach Turkey by train from Greece – Athens and Thessaloniki.

Getting To Turkey By Bus

Turkey is also well-connected by bus . You can easily reach Istanbul in Turkey by bus from other major cities in the Balkan countries .

There is a direct bus connection to Istanbul from Sofia, Plovdiv (Bulgaria) , Thessaloniki ( Greece ), or Skopje ( North Macedonia ) . You can also reach Turkey by bus from Tirana ( Albania ) or Athens (with a change in Thessaloniki).

➡ Check bus connections on the Busbud website .

How To Get Around Turkey

You can get around Turkey by plane, bus, or train .

My favorite way to get around Turkey is its super comfy buses . It’s also easy to book tickets. You can book them online (which I recommend to secure a seat) or at all local bus stations in major cities.

Flying Around Turkey

I recommend getting around Turkey by plane for long-distance travel . For example, flying from Istanbul to Nevsehir is a good idea to visit Cappadocia .

Or you can also fly from Cappadocia (Nevsehir) to Antalya to enjoy Turkish beaches.

Getting Around Turkey By Bus

The easiest way to get around Turkey is by bus . I wouldn’t say before I visited, but Turkey has fantastic buses . They are super comfortable , clean , and spacious . Bus travel in Turkey is one of the best in Europe and Asia.

So you can easily travel by bus from Istanbul to other major Turkish destinations such as Izmir, Denizli (Pamukkale) , Antalya , Ankara , Nevsehir, Goreme (Cappadocia) , or Fethiye .

Smaller cities such as Kas offer local bus connections, too. You’ll pay directly on the bus for the tickets or at the local train stations for the connections between small cities.

Getting Around Turkey By Train

Turkey has also trains all over the country. The major train routes in Turkey are:

🚇 Istanbul – Izmir 🚇 Istanbul – Denizli (Pamukkale) 🚇 Istanbul – Ankara 🚇 Ankara – Izmir

PRO TIP: You can also use Eurrail Pass In Turkey, which is great news!

Best Time To Visit Turkey

The best time to visit Turkey is either May or September . The weather is perfect with great temperatures, not too cold or super hot. These two months are also less crowded than the summer months (June, July, and August).

The average temperatures in May and September are 20°C to 28°C .

Visiting Turkey in the summertime is also a good idea, but prepare for more tourist crowds.

👉 READ ALSO: What Is Istanbul Known For? 21 Reasons To Visit

To help you plan your visit to Turkey , I’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Turkey. These will help you enjoy the country to the fullest and have the best time in Turkey , so check them out below.

Is Turkey Safe For Tourists?

Yes, Turkey is safe for tourists . There is nothing to be afraid of. Turkish people are friendly and always offer help when you need it. They are very hospitable and easygoing.

I felt safe traveling in Turkey for 14 days.

Is It Worth Visiting Turkey With Only Istanbul On The List?

Yes, only Istanbul is much worth visiting. However, if you don’t have time, just visiting Istanbul for 2 to 3 days is worth it .

The city has a rich history and culture, delicious street food, and unique vibes. It’s the only city in the world on two continents (Europe and Asia). So Istanbul should be on your list if you can’t visit anything else in Turkey.

Is It Safe To Travel To Turkey After Earthquake?

Yes, it’s still safe to travel to Turkey after Earthquake. The earthquake mostly affected the southeastern part of Turkey, far from the main attractions.

Still, it significantly impacted the country and life of locals. But regarding safety, there is nothing to fear if you want to visit Turkey’s western and central parts.

Is Turkey An Expensive Place To Visit?

Turkey is generally a cheap destination . However, it depends on the place you’ll visit and stay. The major touristy destinations such as Cappadocia can be pricy . But they also offer more affordable options.

Turkey a variety of accommodations and activities, so you can choose if you’re on a budget or want a bit of luxury .

As a mid-range traveler , I plan to spend around $70 daily in Turkey . It includes everything from a mid-range hotel to food, attractions, and transportation.

Can You Tip With Euro In Turkey?

Yes, you can tip with Euro in Turkey . But always make sure you’re giving them notes . They won’t accept coins as it’s difficult to exchange them. But you can happily tip with Euro and even USD bills .

Should I Bring Cash To Turkey?

Yes , I highly recommend bringing cash to Turkey. Many places don’t accept cards , especially in the bazaars, street food, and some attractions. So always have a handful of cash with you . You don’t want to miss anything because you don’t carry cash.

Wrap-Up: Is Turkey Worth Visiting?

These are the top 12 things to do in Turkey and the reasons why Turkey is much worth visiting . The country offers incredible natural beauty, interesting history, and delicious food that you must experience. So connect with locals in the bazaars, enjoy traditional breakfast, ride the hot air balloon, and have a great time in Turkey .

If you have any questions or need help planning your trip to Turkey, contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll gladly help you. Or check out my favorite travel resources and plan by yourself.

Happy Travels!

More Tips For Turkey Travel

Looking to visit more places in Turkey? Check out my related articles:

Turkey Itinerary For 10 Days

Istanbul Itinerary for 3 Days

33 Famous Turkey Landmarks To Visit

What Is Istanbul Known For? 21 Reasons To Visit

19 Best Things To Do In Pamukkale Turkey

9 Best Cappadocia Tours From Istanbul

27 Best Things To Do In Cappadocia: Ultimate Guide

Is Istanbul Safe For Americans? Safety Tips For Travel In 2023

Is Cappadocia Safe To Visit? Top Safety Tips For Travel

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

TURKEY : Interested in more articles for Turkey? Check out my Turkey Travel Page :

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Turkey Travel Tips: 22 Things to Know Before Going to Turkey

If you’re heading to Turkey soon, you’re lucky! But it’s smart to look for some Turkey travel tips and advice as the country can be exotic depending on where you come from.

Rest assured though, you will have a memorable trip in Turkey, whether you visit just Istanbul or take time to go to other parts of the country. It is a diverse, beautiful country with amazing landmarks , flavorful food , good beach resorts, and lots of activities to suit every preference. Traveling there is fun and affordable, making Turkey a prime tourist destination.

Here are 22 things to know before going to Turkey that will certainly be helpful to you, especially if you are going for the first time. 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Safety in Turkey

2. you may need a visa to enter the country, 3. turkey is a large country, so take note of flying time or driving distances, 4. weather in turkey & best time to visit, 5. cost of living in turkey, 6. getting around turkey, 7. where to go in turkey, 8. spend some time exploring istanbul, 9. try the local food, 10. be prepared for traffic and lots of people, 11. taxi scams to be avoided, 12. always carry cash, 13. you must haggle to buy anything, 14. turkey is a shopping destination, 15. turkey is also a medical destination, 16. dress modestly at cultural sites and in bazaars, 17. wi-fi may not work as well, 18. communication outside istanbul, 19. bring a travel adapter, 20. some websites are banned, 21. what to pack, 22. relax and things will be done, faq about visiting turkey.

Let me address this right away. It is crazy how this beautiful country gets portrayed in the media at times. There is no safety issue in traveling to Turkey, whether as a couple or a family.

We traveled to Turkey with our 2-year-old daughter, and everyone was kind and so playful with our daughter. Of course, if you are a solo female traveler, you would take the same precautions that you would in any other country in Asia or Africa.

The recent earthquake in 2023 in the Aegean region in Turkey was devastating and relief efforts are still on, but this is far away from tourist places, so don’t let that keep you away from planning a trip to Turkey. And if you are the worried type, having travel insurance is always a wise choice.

Like many countries around the world, you may not be able to freely enter Turkey depending on your country of origin. 

Surprisingly, this is a key aspect that often slips the minds of those living in developed countries (myself included). Yet, even citizens of countries like the United States are required to apply for a visa to visit Turkey. Quite astonishing, isn’t it?

For Americans, it is quite simple: all you have to do is fill in a form online and pay $50. You’ll get an e-Visa in just a few minutes, allowing you to stay for up to 90 days.

Check here to find out if you need a visa or not to enter Turkey.

Lake Van in Middle Easter Turkey

While planning your Turkey itinerary, make sure you factor in moving time from one city to another. We covered just Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Ephesus over a 10-day Turkey itinerary , and that trip felt packed (traveling with a 2-year-old).

Our flight time from Ataturk Airport in Istanbul to Kayseri (airport at Cappadocia) was 2.5 hours. Combine that with travel time to and from both airports, it took the better part of a day. Ditto for the flight and travel time from Cappadocia to Izmir (to visit Ephesus).

If you are taking a road trip instead of internal flights, the time to travel between cities would just multiply. So do account for travel times and then finalize places to visit in Turkey.

Turkey is a large country with differing weather patterns depending on where you go, but it is mainly continental.

In general, summers can be extremely hot so be prepared for strong sun if you go in this time. But it’s the best period to enjoy the beaches and the pleasures of swimming. However, exploring certain sites, such as Ephesus for example, can be fairly exhausting at this time of year, as the heat is overwhelming.

Winter can be cold, quite rainy, and snowy in some parts. In Central Anatolia, temperatures can drop as low as -30°C / -22°F!

The best time to visit Turkey would be in spring or autumn. The shoulder seasons are indeed ideal for walking, especially in Cappadocia. There are also fewer tourists, which means more opportunities to talk to the locals.

The cost of living in Turkey is lower than in the US or Western Europe. However, you will be surprised at how expensive activities and tours can be, such as the famous hot-air balloon rides in Cappadocia (yes, prepare some cash).

There is also a big difference between Istanbul and the rest of the country. So if you want to take souvenirs home with you, it is wise to avoid buying them in Istanbul, where prices are skyrocketing. It is more budget-savvy to make your purchases as you go along.

If you’re visiting Istanbul only, avoid buying in the Grand Bazaar. There is plenty of choice, but it is pricer than in the surrounding shops, even if you bargain.

Below is a rough daily budget per person for enjoying your Turkey trip to the fullest:

• For about $30 USD/day (810 TRY), you can travel in backpacker mode : crash in budget hotels, eat on the go or at local joints and hop on public transport.
• For around $50 USD/day (1350 TRY), you’re in for more treats : a comfy hotel stay, dining out at restaurants, hopping on public transport, plus a few cab rides and sightseeing.
• For about $70 USD/day (1890 TRY), you’re in for a deluxe experience : a cozy stay in an upscale hotel, rent a car and eat at good restaurants. You can also treat yourself to some fine handicrafts.

Compare accommodation prices in Turkey on Booking.com

Subway in Istabul

Exploring Turkey is best achieved through a combination of car rental and air travel. The country’s vast landscapes lend themselves to memorable road trips, but it would be impossible to rely solely on the car.

If you are in Istanbul and want to visit Cappadocia for example, the best is to take a domestic flight between Istanbul and Kayseri, rent a car there, and then fly back to Antalya to visit the coast with another car.

Turkey’s public transport is well-equipped with buses and dolmuş . Dolmuş are collective minibusses serving both urban centers and their outskirts. While budget-friendly, dolmuş operates on a fill-and-go basis, needing patience and time. As for bus rides, they are too long and often uncomfortable, so they are not appropriate for short visits.

In urban areas, public transport is efficient and affordable, and taxis are readily available—just ensure the meter is engaged (more details below).

Turkey has many places of interest and very different regions. To fully experience its charm, consider dedicating 2-3 days – or more – to each location, as the country’s vastness makes day trips challenging.

Here are the best places to stay in Turkey to get the most out of the country and explore the must-sees:

• Istanbul : Often mistaken for the capital, this sprawling metropolis is an ideal starting point for your Turkish adventure.
• Cappadocia : A truly picturesque and Instagrammable destination, Cappadocia’s rock churches around Göreme present an enchanting open-air museum .
• Izmir : With a history spanning over 3,000 years, this ancient city boasts a rich cultural heritage and significant historical sites.
• Pamukkale : Its renowned sparkling-white terraces create an otherworldly setting that’s sure to captivate.
• Antalya : Wander through its winding streets and embrace the unique ambiance of one of Turkey’s most stunning cities.
• Bodrum : A blend of modernity and trendiness, Bodrum ranks among Turkey’s top seaside resorts.
• Selçuk : This charming town serves as a base for exploring the ancient marvels of Ephesus during the daytime.

I have been to Istanbul twice; it is a fascinating city. Istanbul straddles 2 continents and the Bosphorus flows through the city. The ancient sites at Sultanahmet are just stunning. The grandiose Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Topkapi Palace are incomparable. The hustle and bustle at Grand Bazaar or Spices Market has to be seen to be believed.

And then there is the modern part of Istanbul that is so cosmopolitan and yet, distinctly Turkish, like Istiklal Caddesi and Taksim Square.

So don’t just spend a day in this vast cultural metropolis. I would recommend 3 to 4 days in Istanbul to explore it fully. If staying for more than 3 nights in Istanbul, my suggestion would be to stay 2 nights in Sultanahmet to be close to the ancient sites. And the remaining nights in any of the modern neighborhoods (Beyoglu, Besiktas would be good options) to explore the rest of Istanbul.

Also, the traffic is ferocious in Istanbul so do account for the time taken to travel from one part of the city to another.

Read more : Discover Istanbul most famous landmarks

Turkish cuisine is influenced by many different cuisines and cultures like Central Asian, Middle Eastern, and so on. There are so many savory local foods to try, like the dolma, pide, menemen.

If you like kebabs, there is a large variety to be found – doner kebabs, adana kebabs, chelo kebab to name a few. And this would be heaven for those who have a sweet tooth – the sheer variety of baklava and other sweets is unbelievable. A hot cup of tea or coffee would complement any meal perfectly.

One of the best experiences was our food walk tour in Istanbul . Not only did we try out local cuisine at small eateries, but we also ventured into many different neighborhoods on both sides of the Bosphorus that we may not have gone to by ourselves.

You may want to enjoy the famous Turkish breakfast or kahvalti. This would be a table full of small plates. You could even try it in the afternoon if this much food is not your preference in the morning.

I already mentioned the crazy traffic in Istanbul earlier. I come from India and am used to a lot of people. And yet, I was overwhelmed by the sheer number at the Grand Bazaar.

To go from one neighborhood to another in Istanbul, account for peak traffic timings. It can be ferocious. And it’s not just bazaars that are crowded in this sprawling city. A walk on Galata Bridge in the evening can be quite an adventure with people jostling for space!

Before getting into a taxi, check if there is a meter and ask for the approximate amount and the route. Most taxi drivers would take the direct route and not the longer ‘scenic one’ if they see you being cautious and questioning.

During the drive, turn on your own GPS to make sure the driver takes you to the right place and always keep an eye on the meter so the driver doesn’t turn it off.

It is also good to ask the locals in your hotel beforehand about the money it would cost to go from one place to another.

There are Ubers available in Istanbul. Even when using the Uber app, some drivers may take a shot and ask you for cash: never give cash as you will be also charged online on the app, ending up paying twice.

Credit cards are widely accepted across Turkey, but it is advisable to keep a small amount of cash handy as well. This is particularly important when venturing beyond major urban areas, where card acceptance might not be as reliable, and ATMs could be scarce.

Should you need to exchange money, it is best to do so upon your arrival in Turkey to secure more favorable exchange rates

While shopping for a Turkish souvenir, in Grand Bazaar or outside, do not shy away from haggling. This is the time to put these skills to the test!

When the shopkeeper tells you the price for something, quote less than half. He would accuse you of robbing him blind, and make wild gestures at times. Take your time to bargain and the final price mostly would be between the 2 prices quoted – the initial price by the shopkeeper and the price you started with.

But don’t let this culture of haggling keep you away from buying souvenirs from Turkey. There are food products like tea, coffee, baklava, and Turkish Delight that you can take back home.

There are also lovely ceramics, Iznik tiles, brassware, and copperware, tea sets to be bought. And if you don’t mind something heavy and expensive to be transported back home, Turkish rugs are quite famous.

Medical tourism in Turkey is booming, with people flocking from all over the world. They are drawn not only by the top-notch quality of care and state-of-the-art facilities but also by the incredibly favorable prices for various procedures. In fact, some surgeries are up to 80% cheaper in Turkey!

In addition to affordable rates, what attracts so many patients to Turkey is the simplification of administrative procedures. The country goes the extra mile when it comes to healthcare, often offering all-inclusive packages. Airfare, airport pick-up, luxury accommodation, tailored travel itinerary… Essentially, all you need to do is pay, and the rest is taken care of!

The majority of patients come to Turkey for procedures such as hair transplants, dental surgeries, cosmetic interventions, bariatric surgeries, laser eye treatments, and dermatological therapies. So don’t be surprised if, at the airport or on the plane, you come across several bandaged skulls or noses!

Inside Hagia Sophia in Istanbul

Turkey is diverse and so is Istanbul, so be aware of where to dress conservatively. Dress modestly for all mosques and cultural sites within the Sultanahmet area. Both men and women need to cover their legs and heads before entering a mosque.

Also, know the proper etiquette at a mosque and that non-Muslims cannot go to the inner sanctum during prayer times. Some spots may require you to take your shoes off and then wash your hands.

There are modern neighborhoods in Istanbul where Westernized attire is normal. And you will see all sorts of swimwear at any of the beach resorts in Turkey . However, modern holiday resorts do not truly represent Turkey. For an authentic feel, do visit the local village outside your tourist resort. And dress modestly for this visit.

Be prepared for patchy Wi-Fi connectivity, especially outside Istanbul. Even for passcodes at places including the airport, you need a Turkish or a European number. If you really need Wi-Fi to work, you should buy a local Turkish sim card (for those having an international phone plan) or rent a Pocket Wi-Fi.

The prepaid sim card is the least expensive option. It includes a predefined amount of mobile data, which you can use as you wish without worrying about going over the limit. But be careful where you buy it, as the price may vary depending on the store. Prefer buying it in a Turkcell shop .

Pocket Wi-Fi is the best solution if you need to share the connection between several devices or with several people. It offers unlimited mobile data on a top local network. You can rent one online or visit a Turkcell store. The cost is about $8 – $9 per day for rentals of 5 days or more (shorter rentals aren’t as cost-effective).

Get a 5-day Pocket Wi-Fi that you can share with up to 10 people for just 42€ here .

English is not widely spoken in Turkey. And if you step outside Istanbul, it is best to know some words and phrases to help you around. This is particularly important if you have allergies or food preferences, you should know the specific Turkish words to make yourself understood.

💡Here’s a shortlist of the basic expressions to know when traveling to Turkey:

• Hello = Merhaba
• Ok = Tamman
• Good morning = Günaydın
• How are you? = Nasılsın?
• Please = Lutfen
• Thank you = Teşekkürler
• Goodbye = Güle güle or Hoşçakal
• Good evening = Iyi akşamlar
• Good night = Iyi geceler

The electricity voltage is 220 V in Turkey, and you have to carry a standard European travel adapter (F type).

Make sure you pack it in your luggage as it may be difficult to find one that works properly when in Turkey. If you don’t have one, I recommend buying this one or this one if you travel a lot.

There’s a list of about 50,000 websites that can’t be accessed from within Turkish borders due to various reasons . The list includes platforms like Booking.com (can be used for Turkey but when outside the country), Paypal, and Wikipedia, as well as illicit and prohibited sites.

Surprisingly, even though these sites are restricted in Turkey, they still pop up in search engine results. Consequently, when attempting to find information on Google and inadvertently clicking on a banned site (often Wikipedia ranking first), your device grapples for several minutes, only to be met with your browser stating “This site is not accessible.” This can be quite frustrating.

Fortunately, there is a solution: using a VPN. But again, beware: many VPNs are blocked in Turkey, so you’ll need a VPN with robust security features.

Regarding clothing, your choices will naturally hinge on the season of your visit to Turkey. To help you in making appropriate clothing selections, download this free winter/summer packing list here . 

As for the rest, here’s a list of the essentials you’ll need for a trip to Turkey, whatever the season: 

• Electrical adapter
• Good walking shoes (the most important item, there is nothing worse than wearing uncomfy shoes when walking all day long)
• Packing cubes (hey, you need to make space for the souvenirs!)
• Travel towel
• Sweater and/or a  hoodie
• B01A0NT3D6 (always, even to protect yourself from the winter sun!)
• Scarf to enter mosques, ideally in linen or cotton gauze for more comfort

Check this page to make sure you don’t forget anything in your luggage.

Sirince Valley in Western Turkey

Do remember that things don’t work in Swiss time here. People do have a laissez-faire attitude towards most things in life, so work will be done when it gets done.

So don’t find ‘Turkey time’ aggravating and you will have a nice holiday!

Hope you’ve found these travel Turkey tips helpful! But I’m done yet, so keep reading to get more info 👇

What is the currency in Turkey?

The official currency in Turkey is the Turkish lira (TRY), and it is divided into kuruş. 

Currently, $1 USD = 27,03 TRY. Check the exchange rates here (always up to date).

Is Turkey dangerous to visit? 

No, Turkey is not dangerous to visit. Apart from the risk of terrorist attacks (as in many European countries), Turkey is a safe country, with the exception of certain regions, and you will have no trouble getting around.

Cities such as Istanbul and Ankara are considered safe, although they face common urban problems such as pickpocketing, which can be found in most of the world’s major cities.

However, caution is advised in certain southern regions that border Syria and Iraq, such as Mardin and Diyarbakir provinces. These areas have experienced an ongoing armed conflict between the Turkish military and the PKK (Kurdistan Workers’ Party), which is classified as a terrorist organization by some countries.

How is driving in Turkey?

Turkey is well-equipped with modern infrastructure, generally clear signage, and readily available fuel and services throughout the country. But before you hit the road, here are a few driving in Turkey tips & info: 

• If you’re not a Turkish citizen, you have to be 21 to be allowed to rent and drive a car
• Most tourists can drive in Turkey with a valid foreign driver’s license for up to 6 months. However, if your driver’s license is printed in a non-Roman alphabet like Arabic or Chinese for instance, an international driver’s license is required.
• Turkey has a zero blood alcohol limit, which means you can’t drink and drive in Turkey.
• In the old towns, the lanes are extremely narrow, steep, and made of cobblestones, most of which are missing, so avoid them as much as possible.
• Speed limits are not always indicated, so here they are: freeways are limited to 120 km/h (75 mph), dual carriageways (out of town) to 90 km/h (55 mph); and 50 km/h (30 mph) in town.
• Be quick and efficient at traffic lights. The locals won’t give you a moment’s rest, honking as soon as the light turns green.

Is tap water safe to drink in Turkey?

No, it is not recommended to drink tap water in Turkey. Drink capped bottled water only wherever you are in Turkey (even restaurants and hotels) and avoid ice cubes.

Where to stay in Turkey?

Here is a selection of the very best accommodation to stay in Turkey’s most popular places, Istanbul & Cappadocia:

Accommodations in Istanbul:

• ✅ Overall Best Hotel – Galata Greenland Hotel : from far the best one, spotlessly clean, beautifully decorated with good service, and perfect location.
• ✨ Best Luxury Hotel – RUZ Hotels : this 5-star hotel has an outstanding customer grade of 9.4/10 and a spectacular terrace with a view. Nothing more to say!
• 💰 Best Budget Hotel – Hotel Sultanahmet : you can’t be closer to Hagia Sophia! The view is so incredible, the place is clean with all amenities.

Accommodations in Cappadocia:

• ✅ Overall Best Hotel – Elite Cave Suites : this is the best value for money you can find in the area. Great location, amazing caves to sleep in, a great terrace with a view, in short, a full Cappadocia experience.
• ✨ Best Luxury Hotel – Divan Cave House : this hotel is exactly what you’d expect from Cappadocia, with exceptional facilities and services.
• 💰 Best Budget Hotel – Cappadocia Stone Palace : everything is perfect, for a very affordable given the area. It is clean, the staff is helpful and the rooftop has a crazy view.

Find more accommodation elsewhere in Turkey on Booking.com .

🔍 Read more:

• Best Landmarks in Turkey
• Best Landmarks in Istanbul
• Is Istanbul worth visiting?
• 1-day itinerary in Istanbul
• 2-day itinerary in Istanbul
• 4-day itinerary in Istanbul
• Karakoy Istanbul Neighborhood Guide
• Balat Istanbul Neighborhood Guide

Hope you liked these useful tips for traveling to Turkey and that they will help you spend a wonderful time there. 🙂 

About the Author

Shweta has always been passionate about travel and immersing in new experiences. Having been to over 40 countries, she blogs at Zest In A Tote to bring family-friendly itineraries and tips, destinations, and luxury stays to her readers. Her belief in family travel needn’t be boring and one can do a mix of local culture & food, adventure activities, and relaxation, all with family. Connect with Shweta on Facebook or Instagram .

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You have done a great job of highlighting some of the most important and helpful things to know before going to Turkey, such as visa, safety, transportation, culture, food and attractions. I like how you explained each tip in a clear and concise way, with some useful links and resources. Your photos are stunning and inspiring, too.

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Turkey Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Welcome to the Crossroads of Civilizations: Your Ultimate Turkey Travel Guide

Turkey stands as a sentinel at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, a mosaic of cultures, histories, and landscapes that beckon travelers from around the globe. This guide is your key to unlocking the treasures of Turkey, from the bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the lunar landscapes of Cappadocia, the azure waters of the Aegean to the rugged peaks of the Taurus Mountains.

One Nation Travel specializes in Turkey tours , featuring trips to Istanbul, Cappadocia tours , Pamukkale, and Antalya for cultural and scenic experiences.

Exploring Turkey’s Diverse Landscapes and Climate Zones

Turkey’s geography is as varied as its history, with each region offering a distinct climate and terrain. The Black Sea region boasts lush greenery and a mild climate, while the central Anatolian plateau challenges visitors with its steppe climate and hot summers. Understanding these variations is crucial for planning your travel wardrobe and activities.

Journey Through Time: Turkey’s Rich Tapestry of History

The Hittites, Byzantines, Ottomans, and many others have left their indelible marks on Turkey. Each city is a living museum, with layers of history waiting to be discovered. From the ancient ruins of Ephesus to the iconic Hagia Sophia, Turkey’s historical sites are not just attractions; they are portals to the past.

The Melting Pot of Cultures: Understanding Turkey’s Social Fabric

Turkish culture is a vibrant tapestry woven from the many civilizations that have thrived here. This section delves into the customs, traditions, and daily life that create the country’s unique cultural identity. Learn about the importance of hospitality, the nuances of Turkish tea culture, and the significance of family in Turkish society.

Essential Pre-Travel Tips for a Hassle-Free Turkish Adventure

Before you embark on your Turkish journey, there are practicalities to consider. This section covers everything from packing essentials to cultural dos and don’ts, ensuring you are fully prepared for your adventure.

Navigating Visa Policies for a Smooth Entry into Turkey

Understanding Turkey’s visa requirements is essential for a smooth travel experience. This section provides up-to-date information on visa processes, fees, and exemptions, helping you to plan your entry into Turkey with confidence.

Prioritizing Health and Safety While Traveling in Turkey

Your well-being is paramount when traveling. Here, we discuss health precautions, insurance, and safety tips for various Turkish locales, so you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind.

Bridging the Language Gap: Communicating in Turkey

While Turkish is the official language, this guide offers practical advice on overcoming language barriers, from useful phrases to language apps, ensuring clear communication throughout your travels.

Managing Your Liras: A Guide to Turkish Currency and Budgeting

Budgeting for your trip is made easier with insights into the Turkish Lira, cost of living, and tips for keeping your finances in check while enjoying all that Turkey has to offer.

Mastering Movement: Turkey’s Transportation Network

Navigate Turkey’s extensive transportation network with ease, from domestic flights to intercity buses and ferries, ensuring you can traverse the country’s vast landscapes efficiently.

From Ottoman Mansions to Boutique Hotels: Finding Your Perfect Stay in Turkey

Turkey’s accommodation options are as diverse as its regions. Whether you’re looking for luxury, comfort, or a touch of history, this section helps you find the perfect place to rest your head.

A Culinary Odyssey: Sampling Turkey’s Gastronomic Delights

Turkish cuisine is a feast for the senses. Explore the country’s culinary offerings, from street food to fine dining, and learn about the dishes that must not be missed.

The Art of Bargaining: Shopping for Authentic Turkish Souvenirs

Shopping in Turkey is an experience in itself. Discover the best markets and shops for authentic souvenirs and learn the art of bargaining to get the best deals.

Celebrating with the Locals: Turkey’s Festivals and Events Calendar

Turkey’s calendar is packed with festivals and events that offer a glimpse into its cultural heart. This section guides you through the most significant and vibrant celebrations across the country.

Embracing the Great Outdoors: Turkey’s Natural Wonders

From hiking in the Kaçkar Mountains to hot air ballooning in Cappadocia, Turkey’s natural attractions are a playground for the adventurous. Learn about the best outdoor activities and how to experience them responsibly.

Sun, Sea, and Sand: Turkey’s Best Beaches and Coastal Retreats

Turkey’s coastline is dotted with stunning beaches and seaside towns. This section highlights the best spots for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

After Dark: Experiencing Turkey’s Vibrant Nightlife Scene

As the sun sets, Turkey’s cities come alive with a vibrant nightlife. From rooftop bars in Istanbul to beach parties in Bodrum, discover the best spots for an unforgettable night out.

Hidden Gems: Exploring Turkey’s Lesser-Known Locales

Go beyond the tourist trail with recommendations for off-the-beaten-path destinations that offer unique experiences and breathtaking beauty.

Creating Memories: A Guide to Family-Friendly Travel in Turkey

Traveling with family? This section provides tips for making your trip enjoyable for all ages, with suggestions for family-friendly attractions and activities.

Love in the Land of the Crescent Moon: Romantic Escapes in Turkey

For those seeking a romantic getaway, Turkey offers enchanting experiences, from sunset cruises to intimate cave hotels. Discover the most romantic destinations and activities.

Tailored Journeys: Crafting Your Ideal Turkey Travel Itinerary

Whether you have a week or a month, this section helps you create an itinerary that suits your interests, time frame, and budget, ensuring you make the most of your time in Turkey.

Respect and Understanding: Navigating Turkey’s Laws and Social Etiquette

Understanding local laws and etiquette is essential for a respectful and enjoyable visit. This section covers the essentials of Turkish customs and legalities.

Staying Connected: Tech Tips for Travelers in Turkey

Stay connected with tips on SIM cards, internet access, and navigating technology in Turkey, ensuring you can share your experiences with friends and family back home.

Traveling Responsibly: Embracing Sustainable Practices in Turkey

Sustainable travel is more important than ever. Learn how to minimize your footprint and contribute positively to the communities you visit in Turkey.

Heading Home: A Smooth Departure from Turkey

As your journey comes to an end, this section offers advice for a hassle-free departure, from airport transfers to duty-free shopping.

Frequently Asked Questions: Turkey Travel Guide

This section addresses common queries travelers have about visiting Turkey, providing clear, concise answers to help with trip planning.

Reflecting on Your Turkish Odyssey: The Journey Continues

As you reflect on your travels through Turkey, this conclusion offers a moment to consider the lasting impact of your experiences and the memories you’ll carry with you.

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Turkey travel guide: Everything you need to know before you go

From multi-cultural istanbul to the beautiful biodiversity of the black sea coast, discover turkey’s wide-ranging charms, article bookmarked.

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A popular sun-and-sea destination, Turkey has more – much, much more – to offer travellers, whether you fancy big-city buzz, mountain adventures, a relaxing rural escape or a deep-dive into thousands of years of history. From grand mosques to fairy chimneys, alpine plateaus to ancient ruins, every corner of the country has its own attractions, along with distinctive landscapes, cultural traditions and culinary specialties.

Current ravel restrictions and entry requirements

Turkey eliminated all Covid-19-related travel restrictions as of 1 June 2022. Masks are no longer required in any indoor or outdoor spaces except hospitals. British citizens do not need a visa to travel to Turkey for stays of up to 90 days out of every 180 days.

• Read the full Turkey travel rules here

Best time to go

The turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea beckon in the summer months, but beach resorts, Istanbul and other top attractions are often crowded and expensive in the sweltering peak season. Spring and autumn are perfect for exploring ruins and Turkey’s wealth of natural wonders, and it’s still generally warm enough take a dip in the sea or watch the sunset from a rooftop bar with a drink in hand. The otherworldly rock formations of Cappadocia are especially dreamlike when blanketed with snow in winter.

Top regions and cities

Coveted by emperors and sultans alike, Istanbul has been capturing hearts for centuries and remains an intoxicating mix of grand historical monuments and vibrant modern life. There are must-see sights like the opulent Topkapı Palace and architecturally awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, of course, but spare some time to wander the city’s backstreets and sample what its different districts have to offer. Immerse yourself in the contemporary art scene in Beyoğlu or the hip nightlife in Kadıköy, explore the traditional neighbourhoods of Fatih and Üsküdar or take in the Bosporus views and chic café culture of Arnavutköy and Bebek. Whatever you do in Istanbul, be sure it includes a ride on one of the city’s ferries, which offer million-pound panoramas for pocket change.

• Best hotels in Istanbul
• Istanbul city guide

Mediterranean coast

Turkey’s nearly 1,000-mile-long Mediterranean coastline is a top draw with its beach resorts for all budgets, from luxury suites in posh Bodrum to family-friendly package holidays in Alanya. But this picturesque region is also dotted with exquisite, little-visited ancient ruins like the mountaintop city of Termessos, the pine-shrouded coastal settlement of Phaselis and the sand-dusted remnants of Patara, which just happens to sit next to one of Turkey’s best beaches. Even in larger resort towns, you don’t have to stray far from your sun lounger to soak in some history: Antalya has a fine archaeological museum featuring treasures from around the region, while Alanya boasts a spectacular Seljuk-era castle and shipyard.

• Turkey’s top beach breaks for summer and beyond

Fantastical formations of soft volcanic rock sprout amid undulating hills and valleys in Cappadocia, a region of central Turkey known for its ethereal landscapes. See it from above, carried aloft by one of the colourful fleet of hot-air balloons that fills the skies at sunrise. Or delve many storeys deep into the earth inside one of the labyrinthine underground cities where ancient residents of the area took shelter from marauding forces. Other highlights include touring the elaborate frescoes inside the cave churches of the Göreme Open-Air Museum, hiking one of the many trails crisscrossing Cappadocia’s scenic valleys, sampling the local wine and staying in a cave dwelling turned character-filled boutique hotel.

Among the most important cities in the ancient Mediterranean world, Ephesus is today one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman ruins anywhere, boasting the towering façade of the Library of Celsus, a 40,000-seat theatre carved into the hillside and the fresco- and mosaic-bedecked terrace houses of the elite class. Stay in nearby Selçuk, a pleasant town with its own impressive historical attractions, or in the quaint hilltop village of Şirince. Ephesus is about an hour by car from İzmir airport, making it easy to pair with a trip to the Çeşme peninsula for some quality beach time.

Best under-the-radar destinations

Eastern black sea.

The lush mountains rising up from Turkey’s eastern Black Sea coastline hold some of the country’s most dramatically beautiful and biodiverse landscapes – rugged peaks, mist-shrouded valleys, wildflower-dappled plateaus – and a cultural richness to match. Hunt for abandoned medieval Georgian churches and monasteries in remote parts of Artvin and Erzurum provinces; tour the tea plantations in the foothills of Rize that produce the country’s favourite caffeinated drink; or visit the Greek Orthodox Sumela Monastery, founded in the 4th century on a steep perch in the mountains around Trabzon.

Southeast Anatolia

A crossroads of cultures for thousands of years, the cities of south-eastern Turkey are steeped in history. Visit the Neolithic temple at Göbekli Tepe, where the archaeological finds have changed our understanding of human history; explore the sacred sites and sprawling bazaar in Şanlıurfa; wander the winding alleyways of Mardin, where churches sit side-by-side with mosques; and marvel at the Roman mosaics preserved in the fine museums in Gaziantep and Antakya – both also among the country’s most noted gastronomic destinations. Contemporary culture is alive and well too: Mardin hosts an international art biennial, and Diyarbakır is an important centre for Kurdish artists, writers and musicians.

Lakes Region

Just over the mountains north of Antalya, the Lakes Region around Isparta and Burdur is mostly known, if at all, for its rose and lavender fields, the latter of which have become a popular backdrop for photo shoots during the colourful harvest season. But there’s much more to discover here, starting with the stunning ruins of Sagalassos, Kibyra and more than a dozen other ancient cities, and including Seljuk caravanserai and ornately decorated Ottoman mansions and mosques. Nature-lovers can stroll around bucolic rural villages or the eponymous lakes or adventure into massive caves and deep gorges.

Best things to do

Sample turkish cuisine.

Blending influences from the many cultures that have lived there over the centuries, food in Turkey is as diverse as it is delicious: from hearty mountain fare (lots of dairy, beans, dark greens and a ribsticking cornmeal fondue) in the Black Sea to spicy kebabs and sweet filo-dough pastries in the southeast to fresh seafood and wild herbs along the Aegean coast. Since Istanbul is a city of migrants, you can eat your way through Turkey’s regional cuisines without leaving its borders. Don’t miss having a lavish Turkish breakfast and an evening with a tableful of meze at a lively meyhane – both convivial meals meant for sharing, and lingering over.

Take a blue cruise

If your idea of an amazing holiday is doing a whole lot of nothing at all, may we suggest a few nights – or even a whole week – on board a traditional wooden gulet as it slowly plies the idyllic coves, bays and uninhabited islets of Turkey’s Mediterranean coastline. Known as a blue cruise ( mavi yolculuk ), this is a classic get-away-from-it-all escape. You may be surprised at how easily you can fill your days with swimming, eating, napping and doing it all over again. For more active travellers there are plenty of opportunities to disembark and hike to remote ruins and sweeping viewpoints.

• Enjoy a blue cruise around Turkey’s Aegean coast

Hit the trails

If you have the time and stamina, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in Turkey’s gorgeous landscapes than by hiking one of its long-distance trails, which often allow you to visit ancient archaeological sites and get a taste of local village life as well. The 310-mile Lycian Way along the southern coast is the oldest and best-known of these routes, but there are also extraordinary treks to be had in the Kaçkar mountains above the Black Sea, the Aladağlar range south of Cappadocia, the Phrygian Way through the western steppe or the historical St Paul Trail running north through the mountains from Antalya to the Lakes Region, to name just a few.

Getting around

Direct domestic flights from Istanbul’s two airports go to almost every part of the country. There’s also a vast bus network, ranging from overnight intercity coaches to village minibuses. Rail service is much more limited, though Istanbul is connected to the capital city of Ankara, as well as Eskişehir and Konya, by fast train. Roads are generally well-maintained, making a hire car a good option for exploring the countryside.

How to get there

Pegasus Airlines and Anadolu Jet (a Turkish Airlines subsidiary) typically have the cheapest flights from the UK to Istanbul, while easyJet, Jet2 and other low-cost airlines and charters fly direct to coastal destinations like Dalaman, Antalya and Bodrum in the summer months. Train travel to Istanbul from the UK is a multiday trip involving several transfers.

Money-saving tip

If you can, avoid travelling to Turkey in high summer, when hotels and airfares for Istanbul and the coastal resorts soar along with the temperatures and the crowds. Early autumn is still warm and inviting for both sightseeing and swimming.

What’s the weather like?

Summers are hot: humid in Istanbul and on the coasts, and dry inland. Winters are cold and wet in Istanbul, snowy in central Turkey, and range from rainy to relatively mild along the Mediterranean.

What time zone is it in?

All of Turkey is in GMT+3 year-round.

What currency do I need?

Turkish lira, though some hotels and tour operators will accept pounds, euros or dollars.

What language is spoken?

Turkish. In big cities and tourist areas, you can usually find speakers of at least passable English; elsewhere, most people will genially find ways to overcome the language barrier. Any attempts by visitors to learn a few niceties in Turkish tend to be warmly received.

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An Epic 7-Day Turkey Itinerary (Plus Option For 10 Days)

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

This website uses affiliate links. For more information, click here .

If you’re planning for a week in Turkey, you’re in for a fantastic trip. In this 7 day Turkey itinerary , you’ll get to see some of the most fascinating historical landmarks, and unique and unspoiled natural landscapes and get familiar with the warm-hearted Turkish culture.

If you want to see all the highlights of the country, this itinerary will show you the best of the country. We’ll also show you how to travel from A to B and which order to see things in, to avoid spending too much time traveling and spend more time exploring.

Are 7 Days Enough for Turkey?

But first, the question we always get asked is; are 7 days in Turkey enough? The truth is, Turkey is a big country, 783,562 km² to be exact, and to really see all of it, you’re going to need more than 7 days.

Even to see the highlights, we recommend at least 10-14 days so you don’t have to rush around and exhaust yourself seeing everything.

However, if you only have 7 days in Turkey we totally understand that not everyone is blessed with time. You can see the highlights of Turkey in seven days, but you do need to sacrifice some landmarks unless you want to burn out with all the traveling.

This is why we have prepared two 7 day itinerary options. This is so you can decide which attractions to sacrifice and which side of Turkey you want to see most.

The Best Turkey Itinerary for 7 Days

Fitting everything into 7 days is no easy task. So to help you pick the right itinerary for you, we’ve given you two options.

The first option is a history and culture tour of Turkey, taking you to some of the oldest and most beautiful historical landmarks in the country.

The second option covers some history, natural landscapes, and the iconic Turkish Riviera for some beach days.

Whatever brings you to Turkey, you’ll find our 7 day Turkey itineraries will cover it all. Let’s take a look…

Suggested Itinerary 1: Istanbul > Cappadocia > Izmir

Below you’ll find our first option for this 7 day Turkey itinerary. This is what we consider to be the best itinerary for seven days and covers the most iconic Turkey landmarks .

Day 1: Istanbul

Our itinerary begins in the enchanting city of Istanbul. This once capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empire, named then as Constantinople, is brimming with history and culture. It’s also the biggest city in the world to span two continents; Europe and Asia.

On the first day of your visit to Istanbul, you’re going to want to explore the neighborhood of Sultanahmet . This is where you’ll find the most iconic landmarks in the city, including the Hagia Sophia, The Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern.

This day will do a lot of walking but it’s all within the same area, so you won’t need to travel far today, but you’re going to see exactly why Istanbul is a city worth visiting .

Stop 1: The Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is the most beautiful work of architecture in Istanbul, so it makes sense to visit this attraction first. It was built between 1609 and 1616 by Sultan Ahmed I. It became famous for its hand-painted Iznik blue tiles that you can see inside.

The mosque features more than 200 stained glass windows, as well as a stunning carved marble mihrab that’s worth checking out. It’s also the resting place of Sultan Ahmed I.

The Blue Mosque has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 and is one of Turkey’s most famous sites.

Stop 2: Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is just across Sultanahmet Park from the Blue Mosque and is another one of the most important mosques in Turkey. It was built in 537 by the Roman Emperor Justinian. It was originally used as a cathedral for Constantinople, where it remained the largest Christian church in the Eastern Roman Empire for over 1,000 years.

After Constantinople was seized by the Ottoman Empire, it was converted into a mosque. It was a museum for a short time between 1935-2000 but was converted back into a mosque. It has some of the most stunning architecture, mosaics, and artistic coverings of all the mosques in the city.

📚 Read more: The Most Beautiful Churches in Istanbul

Stop 3: Topkapi Palace

Around the corner from the Hagia Sophia is the Topkapi Palace . The palace was the former home of the Ottoman sultans in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Today, it is a large museum, showcasing artifacts from the Ottoman era. Not all rooms are open to the public, but the most beautiful ones are. The Ottoman Imperial Harem and the treasury are the main reasons to visit this palace in Istanbul .

The Topkapi Palace was also declared a UNESCO site in 1985 and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

Stop 4: Basilica Cistern

During the Byzantine Empire, the Byzantines built several cisterns under the city as a water storage system for the city’s palaces. The largest and best-preserved cistern in the city is the Basilica Cistern .

The cistern is approximately 138 meters long by 64.6 meters wide, covering a total area of 9,800 square meters — roughly the size of two football fields. It has the capacity to store 100,000 tons of water. It is one of the greatest engineering achievements of the East Roman Empire.

It is just 150 meters away from the Hagia Sophia, so it makes sense to see this historical landmark on the same day.

Stop 5: Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar

Another one of the major landmarks in Istanbul is the Grand Bazaar. It is the largest and oldest covered market in the world, with 61 streets and over 4,000 shops. It began operating in 1455 after the Ottomans captured Constantinople.

The vibrant Grand Bazaar is the best place to pick up Turkish souvenirs , from Turkish delights to Turkish lamps, rugs, towels, and clothes.

Around the corner from Grand Bazaar is the Spice Bazaar. This is another souk market where you can shop for various teas and spices. The spices are said to help with certain medical conditions, from diabetes control to weight loss, and mood enhancers.

Stop 6: Turkish Hamam

After all this walking around, you’re going to want to relax a little. We recommend finishing off the day in a Turkish Hamam, which is similar to a Roman Bath. It’s not just a public bathing space, but a spa where you can get massages and beauty treatments.

Located next to the Hagia Sophia is the Hurrem Sultan Hamam, which was built in the 16th century. It’s a little pricey, but if you’re going to enjoy a Turkish bath in Istanbul , you might as well go to an authentic one!

Day 2: Istanbul:

On the second day we’re going to cross the Galata Bridge and explore the Kabataş neighborhood. This is still part of Europe and features many iconic attractions that should not be missed.

Stop 1: Galata Bridge

We’ll begin at Galata Bridge, a 19th-century bridge that crosses Istanbul’s Golden Horn channel. The bridge is famous because of the fishermen who cast their lines here, attracting hundreds of seagulls.

The bridge has two parts, the top part is where the cars cross the bridge and also where you’ll find the fishermen, and along the bottom part you’ll find many restaurants serving fresh seafood meals. Though as scenic as it sounds, we cannot recommend you to eat at one of the restaurants underneath the bridge – they are pricey and not the best in terms of quality.

Stop 2: Galata Tower

Next, we’ll visit the iconic Galata Tower. By now you have probably noticed the tower in the skyline, given that it is the city’s watch tower.

It was built as a part of the Walls of Galata in 1348 by Byzantine Empire. The Galata Tower has had a tumultuous past, having caught fire in 1794 and 1831. It was also badly damaged in a storm in 1875.

The tower was renovated in the 1960s to look like the original but using concrete instead of wood. You can climb to the top of the tower and witness 360-degree panoramic views of the city. The museum and exhibition hall inside the tower is also one of the best museums in Istanbul .

Stop 3: Istiklal Street

Istiklal Street is the most famous street in Istanbul and is where you’ll find a blend of historic and modern. It was historically known as Grand Avenue of Pera, and is a pedestrian street made famous for its red tram that rides from one end to the other.

There are many high-street brands setting up shops here in the old buildings that were once apartments for the Romans. It’s a great place to pick up some street food or find a traditional Turkish restaurant down one of the side streets. If you’re into nightlife, you’ll find vibrant bars and clubs in this area.

This area also has some of the best rooftop restaurants in Istanbul , offering patrons sweeping views of the area around it, including Sultanahmet and even the Asian side on a good day.

Stop 4: Bosphorus Cruise

If your legs are a little tired from all this walking, then a Bosphorus cruise is a great way to enjoy the sunset.

The cruise takes you through Istanbul’s Golden Horn and out into the Bosphorus Strait, the body of water separating the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. It goes as far as the Bosphorus Bridge before returning back to the harbor, which is usually in Eminönü.

It gives you a unique perspective of the city from the water, and it’s also the best way to see the palaces in Istanbul . Many of the palaces were built next to the water, and their beautiful decoration and architecture are best seen from the water.

If you want the nicer cruises, we highly recommend that you book your tickets online in advance. You can get some of the lower quality ones at the harbor, but you’ll want to reserve the better ones.

Stop 5: Whirling Dervishes Show

If you went for a sunset cruise, then you’ve got plenty of time to enjoy a whirling dervishes show in the evening. This is a traditional Turkish dance where dancers look as though they are floating across the floor.

As well as being a dance, it’s an active meditation exercise, which originated from the Sufi tribes in the 13th century. This is one of our favorite things to do in Istanbul at night .

Day 3: Istanbul

No Istanbul visit is complete without exploring the Asian side, which is what you’ll be doing on the third day in Istanbul. We’ll be visiting the largest mosque in Istanbul, the hip and vibrant area of Moda, and tasting delicious Istanbul street food .

Stop 1: Çamlıca Mosque

The first stop is Çamlıca Mosque, located at the top of Çamlıca Hill. To get here from the historic center, you must first take the metro to Üsküdar and then change to the metro to Kısıklı. From here, you simply walk up the hill.

The Camlica Mosque is the largest mosque in Istanbul and measures 72 m (236 ft) tall. The six minarets measure even higher to 107.1 m (351 ft). This stunning mosque is a sprawling complex large enough to house 63,000 worshipers at one time.

There’s also an art gallery, library, and conference hall. It was designed by two female architects, Bahar Mızrak and Hayriye Gül Totu, and was said to have cost $110 million USD to make.

Stop 2: Kadikoy and Moda

After spending time admiring the mosque, head over to the area of Kadikoy. Here you’ll find bustling markets and fishermen on the waterfront. This is the perfect place to sample some street food. We highly recommend the balık ekmek (fish sandwich). There are also plenty of cute cafes and restaurants.

After wandering the neighborhood of Kadikoy, head further south to Moda. This is a residential neighborhood with street art, boutique stores, cool coffee shops, and a relaxing park. If you haven’t tried Turkish ice cream, dondurma, yet, this is the perfect place to do so!

Stop 3: Uskudar

Uskudar is one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Istanbul’s Asian side. It is situated adjacent to the Bosphorus, and facing west, naturally offers some of the best sunset views in Istanbul.

There are many things to do in Uskudar; if you have some time, we recommend you to walk around the neighborhood and check out some of the fresh fish markets. If it’s closer to sunset time, make sure you grab a spot by the promenade with a great view of the Maiden’s Tower!

After exploring Istanbul for the third day, you’re going to need to get to Cappadocia. To do this, you’ll want to take an evening flight to Cappadocia as the bus is 12 hours overnight. Flights from Istanbul to Cappadocia take just over 1 hour and flights run regularly every day. There are two airlines that regularly operate this route:

• Turkish Airlines
• Pegasus Airlines

There are two airports in Cappadocia – Kayseri Airport (ASR) and Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV). Both are quite similar in terms of distance to Goreme, the historic center of Cappadocia, so we recommend just booking the cheapest one.

Similarly, there are two airports in Istanbul – Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW). Both offer flights to Cappadocia but IST is usually easier to get to, but it depends on where you are staying.

When planning your route to the airport, just keep in mind that the traffic in Istanbul can be terrible, so allocate your time accordingly.

When you arrive in Cappadocia, we HIGHLY recommend you to have an airport transfer to your hotel. This is because the taxi drivers at the airports in Cappadocia are known to overcharge tourists. You’ll definitely save money with the airport transfer!

Day 4: Cappadocia

Cappadocia is a vast desert landscape in the Anatolia region of Turkey. It’s set at 1,050m above sea level, so the temperature gets cold at night, even in the summer. You’ll want to base yourself in Goreme, one of the best areas to stay in Cappadocia . From Goreme, a lot of the places to visit in Cappadocia will be within walking distance away.

The entire region is famous for its fairy chimneys, which are ancient cave dwellings that people used to live in, as well as its unique rock formations that are unlike anything else in the world. You can stay in a cave hotel in Cappadocia , which is a unique experience in itself.

Cappadocia is notoriously hard to get around, so most travelers decide to take tours or rent a car in Cappadocia . This is the best way to see a lot of attractions in just a short time. Public transport in Cappadocia is unreliable, and it takes 2 hours on a bus to cover a distance that can take 30 minutes by car.

📖 Read More: Most Stunning Hotels In Cappadocia With Views Of Hot Air Balloons

Stop 1: Hot Air Balloon Flight

Without a doubt, Cappadocia is most well known for its hot air balloons that float through the skies during sunrise. Since the hot air balloons fly depart at sunrise, you’ll want to book this in advance so you can try and do this on your first day.

The reason we recommend doing it on the first day is that the flights are weather-dependent, so if the weather isn’t good for flying the trip can be moved to the following day.

You will only have two days in Cappadocia on this itinerary, so you do need to understand hot air balloon flights are really a stroke of luck.

Assuming you were able to have your hot air balloon flight in the morning, you’ll be back at your hotel by 9 am and ready to have breakfast. After breakfast, you can start exploring some of the best Cappadocia’s attractions .

Stop 2: Red and Rose Valley

There are many valleys in Cappadocia worth visiting, but if we had to choose just one (or two) then we would definitely say to visit the Red Valley and Rose Valley . These two valleys are located right next to each other, so it’s easy to visit both.

The valleys are some of the easiest hikes in Cappadocia and take you through stunning landscapes. You’ll pass fairy chimneys, cave churches, ancient cave dwellings, and impressive rock formations.

If you have more time, you can also visit Love Valley or Pigeon Valley , which are located just outside Goreme’s town center.

Stop 3: One of the Underground Cities

There are several underground cities in Cappadocia, but the main ones are the Kaymakli Underground City and the Derinkuyu Underground City. These underground cities were built in the 7th and 8th centuries as a way for the local Christians to hide from the Arab invaders.

The Derinkuyu Underground City is the most popular one as it’s the largest underground city open to the public. It is eight levels deep and once housed 20,000 people. Only four levels are open to the public.

Kaymakli is the oldest underground city and also allows visitors to explore four levels, but it is much smaller than Derinkuyu.

The two cities are only a 15-minute drive from one another so it’s possible to see both, but they offer much of the same experience so we recommend you pick one. If you’re not sure which one to visit, we have a guide on which is better; Derinkuyu or Kaymalki.

Stop 4: Sunset Viewpoint

By now you’re probably feeling a little tired from all the exploring, so we recommend you take a trip to one of Cappadocia’s famous sunset viewpoints . There is one in the center of Goreme town called Lover’s Hill , if you don’t feel like driving far. These sunset viewpoints give you the best views of the valleys, fairy chimneys and rock formations of the region.

Alternative itinerary:

If you don’t want to rent a car and drive, you could do one of the red tours or green tours of Cappadocia.

These are popular tours that allow you to see as much of the region as possible, from the underground cities to the vast valleys in Cappadocia. Both tours have different attractions, so it’s best to look up which one is best for you.

Luckily, we have a helpful guide on this; red tour vs green tour .

There’s also the blue tour , which is a small group tour that also visits some of the best sights in Cappadocia, but the itinerary for the blue tour differs depending on the company you book with.

Day 5: Cappadocia

On the second day in Cappadocia, you’re going to need to go slow as you’ll have a flight to catch later in the day.

We suggest you explore the Goreme Open Air Museum in the morning, followed by one of the valleys after lunch.

Pigeon Valley or Love Valley is a good choice because they are close to Goreme. But if you have the extra time, we recommend heading to Ihlara Valley , a stunning canyon that stretches for 15 kilometers and reaches depths of up to 150 meters.

We don’t recommend hiking the entirety of it because it’ll take too long, but check out some of the landscape, cave churches, and especially the iconic Selime Monastery .

If you don’t have a long time to spend, then you can see Devrent Valley or Monks Valley , which take about 30 minutes to see.

Take an evening flight to Izmir. There are no direct flights from Cappadocia to Izmir. You’ll first need to catch a flight to Istanbul and change. Flights take around 4-5 hours with the change over in Istanbul but remember you need to get to and from the airport.

📖 Note: It is also possible to catch a flight tomorrow morning from Cappadocia to Izmir, because Izmir Airport has a direct train to Selcuk, which is where Ephesus (your next destination) is located.

Day 6: Izmir (Ancient City of Ephesus)

One of the biggest reasons to visit Izmir is to visit the ancient ruins of Ephesus. This well-preserved city dates back to the 10th century BC at the time of the Ancient Greeks. The city is huge, spanning an area of 6.6 square kilometers.

Visitors can still see the well-preserved Greco-Roman architecture from the remains of the city which gives you a glimpse of what life would have been like many years ago.

The most notable landmarks in Ephesus Turkey are the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the Ancient World, as well as the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, the House of the Virgin Mary and the Roman Amphitheater that was once large enough for 24,000 spectators.

You can get to Ephesus directly from Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport. We recommend getting an early flight to Izmir, storing your luggage in the airport, then going to Ephesus by train. It is the most time-efficient way to see Ephesus, especially since the train departures aren’t too frequent.

📖 Read More: How to Get from Izmir to Ephesus

You could easily spend a day exploring Ephesus, but if you have time to spare we recommend visiting the nearby village of Sirence, which is a quaint market village that only has 600 residents.

It’s located about 8 kilometers from Ephesus and features many small houses dating back to the Hellenistic period. It’s also a great place to pick up handmade crafts to take home as souvenirs.

Day 7: Izmir

On your final day in Izmir, you’ll want to explore Izmir before you head back home. We suggest visiting the ancient ruins of Smyrna Agora Ancient City in the morning, followed by one of the green parks in the city.

The Kültürpark İzmir Park is a nice and relaxing area to wander around before getting a flight. Make sure to check out the stunning Izmir Clock Tower before you go, too. The Kemeraltı Bazaar is the perfect place to grab some Turkish souvenirs, if you haven’t done so already!

Don’t miss out on the Alsancak district . It is one of the busiest districts in town and where you can truly feel the spirit of Izmir!

Are you reading this from Turkey? Maybe you need a VPN!

If you’re already in Turkey, there is one thing you absolutely NEED: a reliable VPN .

You may find some of your favorite websites and apps are blocked in Turkey , such as popular hotel site booking.com

A VPN allows you to get passed this ruling and enables you to browse these sites without any hassle, and it’s completely legal.

We use Express VPN when we’re in Turkey and we’d recommend it to anyone. It’s affordable, quick, and easy to use.

Suggested Itinerary Option 2: Istanbul > Cappadocia > Antalya

For the second option of our 1 week Turkey itinerary, we have swapped out Izmir for Antalya. Izmir is definitely worth a visit if you love history, but another reason to visit Turkey is for the iconic Turkish Riviera.

If you would like some time by the beach, then you should make a stop by Antalya instead, one of the best coastal cities in Turkey . Don’t worry though, there’s still plenty of history to explore here, you just will have to miss the famous Ephesus.

For this itinerary, we would recommend you spend two days in Istanbul, two days in Cappadocia , and three days in Antalya .

You can follow the same itinerary as option one up until Cappadocia, but instead, follow these three days at the end.

Day 5-7: Antalya

The great thing about Antalya is not only its beaches but its location. Nestled in the center of Turkey along the coast, it’s possible to take day trips from Antalya to other areas that you might want to visit, such as Pamukkale, Alanya, Kemer and Side.

During these three days in Antalya, we’ll be exploring its incredible history, stunning surrounding nature, and beaches. We’ll also give you one day to pick a day trip of your choice.

Here’s where you can find airport transfers to make this part of the trip smooth:

• To Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV)
• To Kayseri Airport (ASR)
• From Antalya Airport to hotel

Day 5: Antalya Beaches

After all the exploring you’ve done so far, you deserve a rest. We recommend you take the first day in Antalya to explore one (or two) of Antalya’s beaches.

If you are staying in Antalya’s historic center (Kaleici), which you totally should, then the city’s most popular beach – Konyaalti Beach, is only a short 30 minutes away by public transport. It is a beautiful beach with the famed Taurus Mountain Range in the background, however, it is quite a rocky beach.

Konyaalti Beach is one of the best beaches if you are traveling as a family in Turkey because it is super accessible and easy to get there.

If you want something more sandy, you can check out:

• Lara Beach – an hour away from Antalya historic center
• Kaputaş Beach – 3 hours away from Antalya in Kas, only recommend if you have the time.
• Cleopatra Beach – 2 hours away from Antalya in Alanya, super beautiful.

Day 6: Day trip from Antalya

We mentioned earlier that Antalya is a great location for day trips. It’s possible to take a day trip to Ephesus and Pamukkale from Antalya, but there’s a lot of travel involved.

If you want to take a day trip to somewhere historic, then the Ancient City of Perge or the Lycian Rock Tombs of Myra are only a short drive away.

Alternatively, you can take a boat tour from the historic Roman harbor. This is a great way to explore the turquoise blue waters of the Turquoise Coast and admire the stunning Lower Duden Waterfalls , one of the greatest attractions in Antalya.

Another popular day trip is to Antalya’s stunning nature spots. The Taurus Mountains and Koprulu Canyon are all a short distance from Antalya city center and provide excellent hiking, biking, and white water rafting facilities.

Day 7: Antalya Old Town

On the last day, you will need to fly back home, so you won’t want to travel too far that day. This is why exploring the Old Town of Antalya is best kept to the end. Antalya has a long and fascinating history, having been conquered by many tribes – from the Greeks, Romans, Ottomans, and even Egyptians.

The Old Town is the best place to see all that history come to life. Make sure to include the old Roman Harbor, Hadrian’s Gate, and the beautiful Antalya Clock Tower on your Antalya itinerary .

Extend to 10 Days Turkey Itinerary

You might be realizing by now that 7 days is not a lot of time to see the whole of this massive and diverse country. If you would like to extend your Turkey trip from 7-10 days, here’s what we recommend you do.

For a 10 day Turkey itinerary, we recommend you combine our two options. We recommend you spend three days in Istanbul , two days in Cappadocia, two days in Antalya, and then fly to Izmir for the final three days, spending one of those days taking a day trip to Pamukkale .

Your 10 day Turkey itinerary would look something like this.

• Day 1-3: Istanbul
• Day 4-5: Cappadocia
• Day 6-7: Antalya
• Day 8: Izmir
• Day 9: Pamukkale
• Day 10: Izmir to home

📚 Read More: The Ultimate Istanbul, Cappadocia and Pamukkale Itinerary!

Getting Around Turkey

Turkey has quite a decent transport system, especially for internal flights. You can fly directly from Istanbul to Cappadocia, Cappadocia to Antalya , Antalya to Izmir, and Izmir to Istanbul, which really reduces the amount of travel time you spend. Especially as you only have 7 days.

You can also take long-distance night buses. The advantage of this is that you don’t lose a day of traveling by traveling overnight. The downside is it’s exhausting. After trying to sleep on a 12-hour bus journey, you’re going to feel very drained exploring all the attractions.

The same goes for if you are driving. It’s quite inexpensive to hire a car and drive, however, we don’t recommend this option for getting around Turkey for a 7 day itinerary. This is because you will be far too exhausted to see and do anything.

In Cappadocia, there is a minibus network that connects you to all the main attractions, and it’s also possible to hire a car in Cappadocia or take taxis from A to B. Most attractions are within a 30-minute drive from one another so if you hire a car in Cappadocia you can see more, and also won’t be too tired after driving.

To get around the cities – Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya have a great internal transport service, including a tram service that connects you to many of the main attractions.

For each city, you don’t need to buy a ticket, you can simply use your contactless payment card to pay for any public transport.

📖 Note: Contactless cards are now accepted in most of the major cities in Turkey, including Istanbul, Antalya, Izmir, Fethiye, Marmaris, Bodrum, Oludeniz, Alanya, and more.

Best Time to Visit Turkey

We know that we’re not all lucky enough to pack our bags and zip off at a moment’s notice, so if you’re planning a trip to Turkey in advance, then you’ll need to consider when is the best time to visit.

Fortunately, any time would be a good time to visit. Even in the winter! During the winter, temperatures in Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya are mild at a comfortable 15°C on average. Winter in Cappadocia is a sight that you’ll never forget.

Cappadocia is at a much higher elevation than the other spots on our itineraries, so you can expect it to be much colder. In fact, it even snows here.

Imagine seeing a desert in the snow? Magical. If Cappadocia is one of the main reasons for your trip to Turkey, then check out our complete guide on the best time to visit Cappadocia .

The wettest months of the year are December – February. This is when Turkey receives most of its rainfall, with a 19% chance of rain most days.

The hottest months are July and August. The temperatures can reach as high as the low 40°C’s in August, so if you’re visiting this time of year then make sure to prepare for it to be hot and bring plenty of sun protection.

Perhaps the best time of year to visit is during the shoulder seasons (April, October, and November), as the weather is dry, a comfortable temperature, and nearly always sunny. Plus they are considered the quiet season so you can visit without the crowds. This is the best time to visit Bodrum and destinations on the coast.

Tips for Visiting Turkey

Before you start packing your suitcase and booking places to stay in Istanbul, Cappadocia, Izmir, or Antalya, we have just a few words of advice to help you make the most out of your trip to Turkey,…

• Get your e-Visa before you fly – Americans now need a visa to enter Turkey. Though you can get one on arrival, it is much cheaper to get it ahead of time on the government’s official site. If you’re not from America, it’s a good idea to check the entry requirements from your country, which you can also do at the official site .
• Pick up a Turkish SIM card or an eSIM – Make sure you are always connected and have plenty of data, as you’re going to need to use Google Maps to find your way to attractions.
• Get a museum pass if you want to see more than one museum – If you’re interested in seeing more than one museum, you can save money by using the city pass which allows you to enter multiple museums. There is a city pass for Istanbul and Antalya.
• Get the museum pass for Cappadocia if you are doing independent sightseeing – The Cappadocia Museum Pass covers 13 attractions in Cappadocia, including the underground cities and Goreme Open Air Museum. You could potentially save some money by getting the Cappadocia Musuem Pass.
• Book internal flights early – You can typically save a bit on your travel budget for Turkey if you are prepared and book your flights in advance.
• Be prepared for disappointment with hot air balloons in Cappadocia – The hot air balloons can only fly when weather conditions are optimal, which is not every day. As you only have a short time in Turkey, you would need to be lucky for the weather to be good on your trip. For hot air balloons, it’s best to visit Cappadocia in June – August.
• Drink plenty of water – Turkey is hot pretty much all year round, so be prepared for this and carry plenty of water with you.
• Wear appropriate clothing when traveling in Turkey – You should cover your shoulders and knees when entering a mosque, and women need to cover their hair.

How Many Days In Turkey To Spend?

Generally speaking, you can spend as many as a few weeks to as little as a few days in Turkey . As we mentioned, Turkey is a massive country with plenty of things to do and see. Each region of Turkey provides a different experience for travelers – from rich historic cities like Istanbul to beautiful beaches in the Turkish Riviera.

If this is your first trip to Turkey, we recommend you to spend at least a week to two weeks. This will give you enough time to explore one region of Turkey thoroughly and understand its cultural significance as part of the Republic of Turkey.

For people with only a few days, it is best that you spend it in one city or part of Turkey, whether that would be Istanbul, Cappadocia, or Antalya.

FAQs About This 7 Day Turkey Itinerary

Here’s what people usually ask us about this 7 day Turkey itinerary…

Is 7 Days Enough to Visit Turkey?

7 days is not enough time to see all of the highlights in Turkey. We recommend to spend at least 10-14 days to see it all comfortably. But if you only have limited time on your itinerary, you can However, you can see many of the top landmarks in 7 days.

Where Should I Go in Turkey for a Week?

If you have one week in Turkey, you should focus your time on Istanbul, Cappadocia, and either Antalya or Izmir. This way, you can experience some of the best our every region in Turkey.

Which is better Bodrum or Antalya?

Antalya and Bodrum are both amazing places to visit in Turkey. We recommend Antalya over Bodrum since it is a little bit more historical, cultural and affordable.

Final Thoughts on Turkey Itinerary 7 days

So there you have it, this is how you can spend a week in Turkey. As you can see, there’s a lot to pack into a 7 day Turkey itinerary, which is why we have given you two options. We hope that this Turkey itinerary helps you plan your adventure.

If you have any questions, let us know in the comments.

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Louisa Smith

Louisa is a professional travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust for exploring the captivating country of Turkey. With a deep appreciation for the country’s diverse history and natural beauty, Louisa has made it her mission to share the wonders of Turkey with the world. Born in the UK and raised by two Travel Agent parents, she was born with a perpetual case of the travel bug and now travels full time as a travel writer. Louisa has embarked on numerous adventures across Turkey, and shares her first-hand expertise and experience about her favorite destinations in Turkey, such as Antalya, Alanya, Fethiye and Bodrum.

18 thoughts on “An Epic 7-Day Turkey Itinerary (Plus Option For 10 Days)”

Excellent and detailed itinerary . Thanks a ton for the efforts. If you could share the 14 day itinerary recommendation, that would be very helpful

Thank you! We will prepare a 14 day itinerary in the future. But in the meantime, if I had 14 days, I would do something like this:

Day 1-3: Istanbul Day 4-6: Cappadocia Day 7-10: Antalya Day 11: Pamukkale Day 12-14: Izmir

Honestly, I wouldn’t add any more places to this as there are so many great day trips you can take from Izmir and Antalya, so I would prefer to spend more time there.

Thanks a ton.

Many thanks for such a detailed itinerary.

I am planning to visit Turkey during Eid holidays for 7 days in April and was actually struggling with the various tour agents to finalize the places. But this is very concise and informative.

I will definitely consider this.

Best comprehensive summary on visiting Turkey and to visit all the historical sites in 7-10 days itinerary.

Is there a ballpark budget you have for the 10 day trip (excluding flights)?

Hi Khadija, we have a complete guide on budgeting in Turkey. You can view that here: https://theturkeytraveler.com/is-turkey-expensive

hi planning to do a solo travel to turkey In Aug (12th-19th) with the following iternary.

3 days-Istanbul 2 days – capadocia 2 days- Antalaya

just wanted to know should i do bookings in advance for tours, ( i know balloon rides needs to be booked in advance). need some help and clarification on following:

1. is it safe to use the metro and tram for commuting in city? 2. should i book tours in advance since i heard its peak tourist season in Aug

Hi Sheetal, since you’re traveling in August I would recommend you book tours and hotels in advance as this is one of the busiest seasons in Turkey. If for any reason a tour can’t happen, you will be refunded. The hot air balloon rides for example can only fly when weather conditions are optimal so if the weather isn’t on your side you can reschedule or be refunded the full price of the ticket. Yes it’s safe to use the metro in Istanbul, it’s much safer than using public taxis in our opinion. You can use the tram in Istanbul and Antalya as well which is also safe. However, be aware of your belongings and keep an eye out for pickpockets when they are crowded. I recommend you get the Istanbulkart and Antalyakart, which are travel cards that you can top up and use on all public transport in the city.

I have 7 days and I want to visit – Istanbul, Cappadocia and Pamukkale. My in and out flights are from Istanbul. I have planed Istanbul and Cappadocia but I am struggling to plan beyond Cappadocia to Pamukkale. Any suggestions?

It’s quite a long distance from Cappadocia to Pamukkale, so because you are short on time your best option is to either take the night bus from Cappadocia to Denizli and then a bus to Pamukkale so you can save a day of your itinerary for exploring (assuming you can sleep on a night bus), or you can fly to Denizli and take a bus. Here is a complete guide on how to get from Cappadocia to Pamukkale that has more detail on how to do this.

hi guys, i have a trip to Turkey next week (20 Sept onwards). My planned route is Istanbul – Alacati – Cesme – Ephesus – Pammukale – Cappadocia – Istanbul.

I’m having trouble finding the right info for my travel from Izmir-Ephesus-Pammukale . 1. If i were to take the train in the morning from Izmir to Selcuk & then a taxi/minivan to Ephesus, is there any luggage storage place at the Selcuk Train station ? 2. From Selcuk in the late noon/evening, what is the best public transport to get me to Pammukale and stay the night there? 3. Early morning visit Pammukale pools and is there a bus to Cappadocia ? or any other suggested public transport?

kindly advise.

Hi D, there is no luggage storage at Selcuk train station, but there is luggage storage at Selcuk bus station which you can use for a fee. You can then get a train to Denizli after exploring Ephesus from Selcuk (I believe there are several throughout the day and the last one is around 8pm, but do check with the ticket office when you arrive). I suggest you stay in Denizli overnight and then get the minibus to Pamukkale the next morning. After exploring Pamukkale you should return to Denizli and then you can then get a night bus from Denizli bus station to Cappadocia, or you can fly from Denizli to Cappadocia if you don’t like long-distance buses. I hope this helps!

Hello Sean and Louisa! I came across your page while planning for my 12 days Turkey itinerary, which is happening end of Oct 2023. This would be my first time to Turkey and your page has been really helpful. Would like to get your thoughts & advice on my planned itinerary.

My planned route currently looks like this:- Istanbul – 3 days Cappadocia – 3 days Antalya – 3 days Pamukkale – 1 day Izmir – 3 days

Questions: 1. Is it advisable to rent a car to travel between Cappadocia > Antalya > Pamukkale > Izmir? I’m planning to fly from Istanbul > Cappadocia, and from Izmir > Istanbul on the final day. Can you recommend a good car rental contact? Are public transportation ie. buses frequent and reliable in this route? What would be the best way to get around? 2. Is it worth spending a night in Pamukkale or should I travel directly from Antalya to Izmir, and plan a separate day for Pamukkale? 3. Should I make a stop in Fethiye, in between Antalya and Pamukkale?

Thanks in advance 🙂

Hi Ade, we’re pleased you found this guide helpful. Your itinerary plan looks good! You can rent a car which is the easiest way to get around, but it’s also possible to get from place to place via bus. Buses are frequent between these places and you also have the option of taking night buses, which helps to give you more time for exploring. The bus company we like is Metro, and you can find bus tickets from their website here . If you prefer to rent a car, we recommend using Discover Cars. We have found the best prices with them and we have used them ourselves and know them to be reliable. You can browse car rental options here . If I were you, I would get the bus from Cappadocia to Antalya and take a day tour from Antalya to Pamukkale so you don’t need to worry about traveling yourself and spending the money on a car hire. Here is a link to a great tour from Antalya to Pamukkale . Then you can fly from Antalya to Izmir directly. I don’t think you will have time to fit Fethiye in on this trip, as it’s about 3-4 hours from Antalya to Fethiye depending on whether you drive or take a bus, and also not really on the route to Pamukkale. If you get the day tour as we mentioned then you should have plenty of time to fit everything in.

Thanks for the advice and reco! Would definitely consider them. Can I opt to take the bus from Antalya to Pamukkale (spend a night here) and then take another bus to Izmir the following day?

You can take the bus from Antalya to Denizli, and then there is another bus to Pamukkale. If you spend the night in Pamukkale, I recommend you get up early in the morning and visit the Travertine Terraces at sunrise, and explore the ruins and swim in the hot spring pools. Then you can leave late morning and catch a bus from Pamukkale to Denizli, and then another bus from Denizli to Izmir. It’s a lot of road travel, but it’s possible. I recommend you check out this guide on how to visit Pamukkale for sunrise .

This has been really helpful. Thank you so much!

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Turkey Travel Guide

Destinations, introduction.

Simply put, Turkey is a country of many marvels. From its incredible landscapes to geological wonders, ancient sites and bustling cities that are teeming in vibrant culture, colorful bazaars, tantalizing cuisine and friendly people, Turkey is a unique place that has beckoned to the senses from the earliest of civilizations.

Linking western Asia to southeastern Europe across the Turkish Straits, Turkey is a large country that is home to some of the world’s most beautiful and bizarre landscapes that range from spectacular Mediterranean beaches to majestic snowy mountains, verdant hills and steppe formations.

The nation’s capital is Ankara, a modern city of skyscrapers and distinguished cultural venues such as the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. Turkey’s largest city, Istanbul , is widely known for its Grand Bazaar, vibrant nightlife and historic treasures like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

The stunning Turkish Riviera boasts the Mediterranean seaside resort cities of Marmaris and Antalya , while in the Central Anatolia Region, Konya is noted for its striking Seljuk architecture and the Whirling Dervishes. Other popular destinations include the ancient city of Ephesus, Cappadocia dotted with its fairy chimneys, and the natural cascading rock terraces at Pamukkale.

The Ultimate 7 to 10 Days in Turkey Itinerary

Published on December 21, 2023

by Brittany Scott-Gunfield

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A 7 to 10-day Turkey itinerary is an exciting prospect as it’s located in one of the most diverse geographical areas, with a beautiful Mediterranean coastline, green valleys, snowy mountains and sparse volcanic areas spread out within its borders.

So for your trip to Turkey, we’ll try to encompass as much of the landscape as possible, while taking you through its most renowned historic sites and cities and sampling its excellent array of local cuisine.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Turkey?

In an area twice the size of Germany and a population of over 85 million people, Turkey is a huge country with a unique culture, blending cuisine and traditions from the Middle East and Greece, and boasting a long and intriguing history. From the Mediterranean coast to the Iranian border, Turkey has so much to offer tourists.

You can see a lot of the country in one go if you take a month-long road trip from Istanbul, down the west coast, across the centre and back via the green landscape of the Black Sea shore in the north.

But for a shorter trip, you can also stick to the west coast to see the remains of several Ancient Greek settlements and open-air museums as well as utilise the cool, clear Mediterranean Sea to cool off in the heat, by renting a car for your Turkey trip.

If you’ve only got 7 days in Turkey, you can still see a great amount of the major cities and beautiful Western coast, but it’s advisable to fly some distances such as Istanbul to Izmir to shorten your journey and make the most of the time you have.

If you’re more interested in city life and taking day trips from a city base, you can happily spend a few days in Istanbul, 2 days in Izmir and 2 days in Bodrum, Fethiye or Antalya to make up a short but diverse itinerary without having to rush around from place to place. You can also easily fly into each of these cities.

For those who would like to spend a bit longer exploring, then plan to spend at least 10 days. Though you’re still not going to be able to see everything, it will give you enough time to get a feel for Istanbul, spend some time along the beautiful coast and also enjoy the splendours to be found in the incredible Cappadocia region.

Getting To & Around Turkey

Istanbul is a huge transport hub, with two major airports, Istanbul IST and Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen SAW, where you can enter the country or transfer on to other cities. You can also arrive by bus from Eastern Europe easily in Istanbul to start your trip to Turkey if you’re on a longer trip.

For our Turkey itinerary, it’s best to rent a car to get from place to place, although if you don’t drive or don’t want to risk driving in a foreign country where the road rules can be slightly different, you can also easily get around by aeroplane and bus.

There are very few trains in Turkey so it’s best not to rely on these for transportation, but stick to coaches. Kamil Koc and Pamukkale are very reputable coach services taking you throughout Turkey, serving water and snacks on board for free. You can view schedules here.

Within cities like Istanbul, Izmir or Bodrum it’s best to use public transport, especially the metro and tram system, as they are much quicker than trying to travel on the roads.

Istanbul is three times the size of London, straddling two continents with approximately 15 million people living there, so you can always guarantee the city will be busy, and not worth trying to drive in – especially from one side of the Bosphorus to the other.

You can arrange your rental car in the city for the day you leave Istanbul for Izmir, so you don’t waste any more and can travel down at your own pace. You can browse options here.

You can expect police stops all over the country, whether you’re in your own car, a public bus or walking in the street, so keep your passport on you at all times to avoid any difficulty identifying yourself.

In some cases, the police will also check the date of the entry stamp in your passport to ensure you haven’t overstayed your 90-day visa-free travel in the country.

7 to 10-Day Turkey Itinerary

Following the Western coastline from Istanbul to Antalya before heading inland to Cappadocia, our itinerary will show you some of the country’s highlights and best-kept secrets.

Day 1 – Istanbul

Istanbul is a spectacular city and one with international prestige among tourists, so you’ll want to spend at least 2 days in Istanbul while you’re in Turkey to be able to see the main highlights and soak in the chaos of city life in one of the world’s largest metropolises.

The most famous attractions are located on the European side of the city, with many concentrated in the Fatih (meaning conqueror) district, so this is where you’ll want to spend most of your first day.

Visit the enormous and beautifully decorated Blue Mosque built in the 17th century by order of Sultan Ahmet who is laid to rest with his family in a mausoleum within the gardens. Then a short walk away is Istanbul’s most famous and one of its oldest attractions, the Hagia Sophia.

Now a mosque, you will have to dress appropriately to enter and avoid prayer times, but the visit remains awe-inspiring as you can gaze up to the layers of history adorning the high ceilings, where large gold medallions decorated with the names of Allah, Prophet Muhammed, four caliphs and two grandsons of Muhammed are hung in front of 6th century Roman mosaics depicting Mary and Jesus.

Then move a short distance again to discover the amazing Cistern Basilica with its Roman medusa heads under pillars in the ancient underground reservoir and the historic bazaar where you can enjoy a kebab or Turkish coffee as well as browse the small shops selling everything from spices to carpets and gold jewellery.

If you have time, the Topkapi Palace is also located in the Fatih district and showcases life in the Ottoman Empire with its exhibits. This visit can take a few hours so make sure you have enough time to cover everything you want to see.

Thanks to the excellent metro system, you can stay wherever is most cost-effective in Istanbul; the European side can be more expensive than the Asian side, but it depends on your tastes.

Because you only have a short time in Istanbul, it can be worth taking a walking tour to ensure you’re able to see all of the top highlights of the city. If you plan to enter several attractions, then consider  getting a Museum Pass.

Where to Stay in Istanbul

Kupeli Hotel – This 3-star hotel is situated in the central Fatih district within easy reach of sites such as the Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. They have plenty of rooms and a very good breakfast.

Cronton Design Hotel – Also situated in the Fatih neighbourhood, this luxe hotel has several plush rooms, an inviting spa to relax in and a wonderful breakfast to enjoy each morning.

MySuite Istanbul Cihangir – Located in the cool and central Cihangir neighbourhood, these apartments are perfect for those after a self-catering option. There are plenty on offer and there is A/C in all of them.

Cheers Hostel – This hostel is great for backpackers and budget travellers. Located within a stone’s throw of attractions like the Blue Mosque, there are plenty of room types, social events and good common areas.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Istanbul hotels!

Day 2 – Istanbul

With still plenty to cover in Istanbul, your second day in the former capital of the Ottoman Empire should take you further around the city.

Still on the European side, you should visit the famous Galata Tower where the first unpowered flight took place from the tower across the Bosphorus and enjoy the wonderful views over the rooftops to the sea.

Then move along the coastline to the exquisite Dolmabahçe Palace, designed in the style of Western European palaces such as Versailles and later serving as First President of the Republic Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s residence.

Crossing the Bosphorus in a small public ferry, you’ll get great views over the two sides of the city and usually a taste of more modern Turkish music thanks to a resident busker.

In Kadikoy, you’ll also see the more modern side of the city, with trendy cafes, bars and restaurants dotted around, frequented by the younger population. This is a great area of the city to stay in and enjoy some great traditional meals with a modern twist and a few Efes beers.

Day 3 – Izmir

Flying or driving down to Izmir for the 3rd day of your Turkish adventure, there’s plenty of history and culture waiting for you. If you choose to drive, plan to get as early a start as possible as it can take about 5 hours.

Once in Izmir, visit the centre of the city, Konak Square, with its iconic clock tower, before heading into Kemeralti, Izmir’s historic bazaar to browse the local products and enjoy a great kebab.

Besides the bazaar is the ancient site of Agora, which was previously the economic centre of Ancient Izmir known as Smyrna.

If you enjoy discovering the country’s history, head on to the Alsancak Tekel Factory which has been turned into the Archaeology and Art Museum of the city, located in the great neighbourhood of Alsancak.

In the museum, you can discover many ancient treasures that have been uncovered in the region, from Foca in the north to Ephesus in the south, making it a perfect introduction to what you can expect to find the following day in Ephesus.

Alsancak is also a great neighbourhood to stay in, with plenty of great places to eat from pizza to sushi, and many bars and pubs as well.

The public transport in Izmir is great, but for one day in the city it’s beneficial to stay more centrally. However, you can expect a lot of noise overnight, from the early morning calls to prayer to the bin collectors and people drinking in the nearby bars. 

Where to Stay in Izmir

Zeniva Hotel – Situated in the centre of Izmir close to Cumhuriyet Square, this hotel is perfect for mid-range visitors. They have an array of cool and modern rooms and a fab breakfast available daily.

Key Hotel – Those looking for a bit of luxury will love this intimate seaside hotel in a central area of Izmir. They have a great view of the sea, a wonderful restaurant and a delicious breakfast each morning.

Lotus Garden Hostel – Great for backpackers or for those looking to experience a great social atmosphere, this hostel has both dorms and private rooms and great common areas.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Izmir hotels!

Day 4 – Ephesus

Just an hour driving south from Izmir you’ll get to the incredible historic site that is the Ancient City of Ephesus. You can stay in nearby Sirince or Selcuk where you can also go wine tasting, or stay in Izmir and join an organised tour to Ephesus for a day trip.

This major archaeological site is still being uncovered, although what has already been discovered will surely impress you and it is a fascinating place to visit.

You can spend a whole day wandering amongst the ancient pillars and friezes, dating back to the 10th century BCE when the Greeks founded the city, and others from the Romans’ take over in the 2nd century CE.

Discover the fantastic 24,000-seater amphitheatre and the ornate facade of the Library of Celsus which was rebuilt in the 1970s.

If you have time you can also head to the nearby museum dedicated to the site, with many more artefacts and information explaining their significance. However long you have, a month or just 7 days when you visit Turkey, you can’t miss out on a trip to Ephesus.

Day 5 – Bodrum

A couple of hours further south or 3 and a half hours on the coach from Izmir, is the sweet seaside town of Bodrum . With its long coastline full of restaurants and bars, and shining white stone streets with shops open until the early hours of the morning, this is a lively summer town and a great place for daytime relaxation and nighttime action.

Although the overall atmosphere is of sunbathing, drinking cocktails and cooling off in the clear water, you can also discover the ancient history of Bodrum, from the amphitheatre and ruins of the mausoleum of Mausolus (a structure once so impressive it gave above-ground tombs their name) to Bodrum castle built by the Order of the Knights of Saint John.

Bodrum Castle uses many historic pieces of rubble from the ancient mausoleum and juts out from the coastline giving visitors amazing views over Bodrum marina and beach. It also houses the underwater archaeology museum, so there’s plenty to discover within the castle walls before heading off into the town for some sun, sea and sweet and savoury delights.

As a popular destination for tourists and cruise ships, you’ll find plenty of hotels and B&Bs across the town for all budgets.

Where to Stay in Bodrum

Hotel Centro Bodrum – This lovely hotel is a great mid-range option in Bodrum. They have a range of gorgeous rooms along with a fantastic swimming pool, on-site restaurant and daily breakfast.

Casa Nonna Bodrum – The perfect hotel for a romantic escape, this adults-only hotel has an excellent location in Bodrum. Situated on the beach, they have a spa and numerous restaurants along with lovely rooms to choose from.

La Luna Hostel – This hostel is great for those visiting on a budget or are after a great social atmosphere. They have lots of dorms and good common areas and self-catering facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Bodrum!

Day 6 – Day Trip to Kos

Staying in Bodrum, you should also make the most of the incredible coastline as well as your proximity to one of the most popular of the Dodecanese Islands. It may seem unusual or even sacrilegious to include a day trip to Greece in an itinerary for Turkey, however, the two countries share a great deal of culture and history.

A ferry ( can be booked here ) can take you out to the island of Kos in around one hour, making it perfect for a day trip, as you see the fortress in the harbour, built by the same Knights Hospitaller as Bodrum Castle, and the 2,500-year-old Plane Tree of Hippocrates.

Walk around the marina or take a little train or taxi to the other ancient Greek sites located on the island such as the 3rd century BCE medical centre, the Asklepieion.

Kos has plenty to see in a day, and some wonderful restaurants to enjoy as you look over the azure sea back to Turkey.

Day 7 – Kabak

For the end of 1 week in Turkey, you’ll want to set off early to reach the beautiful area of Kabak or the city of Fethiye.

Just north of Fethiye is Dalaman Airport, the main airport for the region, so if you’ve just got 7 days in Turkey, this is a great place to finish and take your flight back home or back up to Istanbul to transfer on further afield.

If you’re lucky enough to spend more time in Turkey, this is a beautiful location for either sunbathing or getting adventurous while en route to Antalya.

Kabak is located in a famous valley with a beautiful seafront; you can stay in one of the many hotels located in the area, each with fantastic views over the sea to the front and the green mountainsides behind.

Spend your day hiking through the valley to reach the pretty waterfall or swim around the coast to the cave. The trails are well marked and your hotel staff give you basic directions. If you do want to hike, the middle of summer may not be the best time to visit this area due to the intense heat.

Or, head to the nearby small town of Ölüdeniz where you can go paragliding for a very reasonable fee, or enjoy the long beaches while watching the paragliders land all around. There’s also a small inlet with shallow water, perfect for families with young children.

If you’re spending 10 days, continue for another few hours driving and plan to spend a couple of nights in Antalya.

Where to Stay in Antalya

Mai İnci Hotel – Located just 800 metres from the beach, this is an excellent mid-range option in Antalya. There is free parking, 2 on-site restaurants, a spa and wellness centre and much more.

Hotel Lykia – This luxe hotel located in the old town of Antalya is another perfect place to make as your base. They have plenty of classic rooms, a lovely swimming pool and countless other amenities available to guests.

City Moonlight Aparthotel – A great option for those after a self-catering accommodation. They have a range of flats to choose from and a great location for exploring Antalya.

Hostel Vague – This hostel is a good budget option for backpackers visiting Turkey. They have a great location in Antalya and lots of room and bed choices available.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Antalya hotels!

Day 8 – Antalya

Further south along the coast is the popular destination of Antalya. With its incredible coastline, historic communities dotted around the area, archaeology museums and sand sculpture open-air museum, there’s loads to see and do in a day in Antalya.

Lounge on the beaches, take a day trip out to the cable car in Kemer for fantastic views over the forests and coast or hike into the canyon, you won’t be short of activities in Antalya, whatever your interests.

Antalya is also the start (or end) point of the famous Lycian Way, a 520-mile trail connecting 18 ancient sites along the coast to Ölüdeniz, so a great day out would be to hike along part of the trail.

There are some fantastic hotels and villas in the area surrounding Antalya as well as in the city centre, so you can choose according to your tastes and budget.

Antalya is a walkable city and you can visit the beautiful old town, Kaleiçi, Hadrian’s Gate, the modern centre and the coastal fortress wall easily on foot if you’re staying centrally.

You can also take organised tours to see some of the epic Roman amphitheatres and ruins along the Lycian Way if you don’t have your own transport or enough time for hiking in your Turkey itinerary.

Day 9 – Cappadocia

Quickly becoming one of the most popular tourist attractions in Turkey is the historic site and national park in the region of Cappadocia. In central Turkey, you’ll either need to spend 6 hours on the road or a couple of hours on a plane from Antalya via Istanbul to Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport.

Since it may take a while to reach if you’re on a Turkey road trip and there’s so much to see, you should definitely spend 2 to 3 days in Cappadocia if possible.

For your first full day, you’ve got to visit Göreme National Park. Wander around the open-air museum, seeing the caves built into the strange volcanic sculpture-like rock formations and visiting the chapels built by the post-iconoclastic former inhabitants, feasting your eyes on the colourful seccos adorning the walls and ceilings for the last 800 – 900 years.

There are many great hikes in this area so feel free to take off and discover the rock formations as a small group, or join a guided tour(such as  a green tour  or  red tour ) to learn about the history of the troglodyte communities that created the communities and why they were forced to do so.

You can stay nearby in the town of Nevşehir to easily get around the region by bus or private taxi if you don’t have a car.

Where to Stay in Cappadocia

Aysel Inn House – This guesthouse in Avcilar is a great base for exploring Cappadocia. They have breakfast, free parking and even provide bikes for guests who want them.

Divan Cave House – Located in Göreme, this hotel is perfect for those who want to stay in a fairy chimney while in Cappadocia. They have several classicly-decorated rooms and a great daily breakfast.

Diadem Cappadocia – Another cosy budget option in Göreme, they have great double rooms along with some dorm rooms to suit all kinds of guests.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cappadocia hotels!

Day 10 – Cappadocia

To put the cherry on the cake, or the final sprinkle of pistachio on the baklava, of your 10 days in Turkey, you have to finish it off with a magical hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia.

Taking off at sunset, these trips take a couple of hours and show you how vast the volcanic region is and how incredible it looks as the sun rises, before settling back down and providing you with a traditional Turkish breakfast and often a glass of champagne too.

You can either  choose a group trip or splash the cash for  a private trip  you’re looking for a romantic trip.

If the winds are not in your favour and you’re not able to take flight, there’s a fantastic alternative; the Derinkuyu Underground City. 85 metres underground is the almost 3,000-year-old dwelling that can hold up to 20,000 people, with small rooms dotted around, joined by steep staircases.

The underground city is even more impressive with its air circulation system, its plumbing and its own chapel. If you have enough time on your final day in Turkey, check out this fantastic place before catching your flight back to Istanbul.

Have More Time?

If you’ve got more than 1 week in Turkey, there are plenty of other historical sites and beautiful parts of the country to discover. From Cappadocia, you can continue driving for 7 hours to the amazing site of Göbekli Tepe. You can also fly via Istanbul within 5 hours, but this is a great stop on a Turkey road trip.

This ancient site is still being uncovered, but from the statues and engravings of animals and people found so far, it’s possibly the oldest civilisation in the world, showing how prehistoric communities were farming animals and crops even over 11,000 years ago.

If you want to have a round trip from Istanbul, you should also come back via the northern Black Sea coast. This area is much greener than other parts of the country thanks to the sea and surrounding rivers and is a great place to go hiking and camping. Or, continue northeast to Erzurum or Sarıkamış for a ski trip!

Turkey is a huge country with a diverse range of attractions and activities, so it’s impossible to see everything in Turkey in 10 days. But taking a week-long road trip along the west coast or flying from Istanbul to Izmir, to Antalya and Cappadocia, are great ways of discovering the best of the beautiful country.

Are you planning to visit Turkey? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Ultimate 4 to 5 Days in Istanbul Itinerary

Izmir or Bodrum: Which Turkish City to Visit?

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Bodrum Itinerary

About Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Brittany is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Colchester, England, she is slowly but surely travelling the world as a digital nomad. She loves to hike around different landscapes and has a deep love for travelling around France (and elsewhere in Europe).

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The 13 best places to visit in Turkey

Where should I travel to in Turkey? Where are the best places to visit in Turkey? We have compiled a list of the best places to visit in Turkey to help ensure that you have the most incredible trip.

We have also included some extra information regarding the best activities to try whilst in Turkey, as well as listing some of the best places to stay in Turkey to help you plan your time in this unique country a little bit easier, see it as your very own Turkey travel guide and let us help you create the trip of a lifetime!

From sun-drenched beaches to lush, forest-covered mountains, vibrant and bustling cities to ancient ruins, Turkey is a country with an incredible amount to offer.

The country boasts a startling 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites with so many more historical places and sites set to blow your socks off in absolute awe and wonder. A country dripping in history and culture, Turkey has a complete array of stunningly beautiful places awaiting you.

We spent nine months in Turkey so we had plenty of time to visit various locations.

Some of them were mentioned in tourist guides, others were recommended by locals or we discovered them during one of our hitchhiking trips . They all marked us in a very special way and we would love to share those places with you.

Reading Tip: How much does it cost to travel to Turkey?

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I’ll receive a small commission, at no extra costs for you. This way you’re helping me run this website and writing more informative and awesome guides like this. I only recommend products and services that I like and trust. Thank you!

Turkey Travel Essentials & Resources

• Turkey Travel Guide: 10 useful things to know before you go
• Where to go: 13 Beautiful Places to visit in Turkey
• Travel Costs : Turkey Budget Guide
• Tours & Experiences: City tours, guided day trips, multiple-day tours
• Visa: Visa-free or e-visa for most passports – Check the required Turkey travel documents!
• Getting there: Search for flights to Istanbul, Ankara, Antalya and Izmir in Turkey
• Where to stay : Find a room in hotels, hostels or guesthouses
• Travel Insurance: Choose the best travel insurance for Turkey
• Getting around : Rent a car in Turkey or travel by bus, train or taxi

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Where should I travel to in Turkey – The 13 best places to visit in Turkey

1. Istanbul

It’s most likely that you’ll begin your trip in the city of Istanbul , a city that straddles east and west, divided by the Bosphorus Strait that splits the city into two separate parts.

The only city in the world that can lay claim to residence on two different continents (Asia and Europe), Istanbul really is one of the most unique cities in the world. With over 2500 years of traditions, history and incredible landmarks, this city is a complete cultural melting pot.

Istanbul has been the capital of four empires and the remains of each of these empires can still be seen today. Many buildings and landmarks from Istanbul’s opulent past remain intact today and the cultural heritage of the city is highly impressive.

Go and marvel at the beautiful Hagia Sophia , a Byzantine structure that was originally built as a Christian church in the 6th century CE (532–537) under the direction of the Byzantine emperor Justinian I. In later centuries it then became a mosque, a museum, and then a mosque once more.

This building reflects the religious changes that have happened over the centuries, boasting both inscriptions of Islam as well as lavish mosaics of Christianity.

The Blue Mosque is another of the city’s world-renowned landmarks, named famously after the blue tiles that surround its walls. Built between 1609 and 1616, this building still holds high importance to the history of the Ottoman Empire.

Daily prayer services still occur in the mosque so why not go and spend some time there, say a prayer and embrace the architectural beauty.

Other top tourist attractions are the Grand Bazaar , the largest covered market in the world, the Topkapi Palace and museum where you can view the imperial collections of the Ottoman Empire and then head up the Galata Tower to take in the view of the cityscape.

Whether it’s the only destination on your list, Istanbul really is one of the best cities to visit in Turkey.

Reading Tip: Top 17 Things to do in Istanbul – Complete Istanbul City Guide

How to get to Istanbul

The easiest way to get to Istanbul is by plane. Turkish Airlines along with other major airlines have regular daily flights to this remarkable city.

Places to stay in Istanbul

There are hundreds of lovely, well-priced places to stay when visiting Istanbul. We have included a few hotels and guesthouses for less than €50/night below:

• Atlantis Royal Hotel ( check price and availability here )
• Sirkeci Ersu Hotel & SPA ( check price and availability here )
• Ahmet Efendi Konağı ( check price and availability here )

Things to do in Istanbul

We would highly recommend going on a walking tour and you can take one for FREE through Old Istanbul.

You’ll learn all about the incredible history of Istanbul and also be guided to a number of the city’s beautiful landmarks, including the ones we have mentioned above.

Read: T o p 1 7 Things to do in Istanbul

2. Bursa / Cumalikizik

Cumalikizik is a UNESCO World Heritage town, 20 minutes from Bursa.

Perched in the hills on the foot of the Uludag Mountain, the cobblestoned and narrow streets of this 700-year-old village remain largely untouched and have been well preserved.

This little village is another one of the many well-visited tourist places in Turkey, with streets lined with traditional houses, the higher you walk up, the less crowded it becomes.

The friendly reputation of the local villagers, some of who have turned their homes into family-run eateries, precedes them and draws you into this charming Ottoman hamlet, offering you a peek into the traditional Turkish way of life.

Bursa, known as ‘Yeşil Bursa’ (Green Bursa) due to the high number of parks and mountains surrounding it, was also once the capital of the Ottoman state.

How to get to Bursa

From Istanbul- A bus will take you 3 1/2-hours and cost you 15TL, just over €1.(Nilüfer Turizm/bus company) (tel. 0224/444-0099)

Things to do around Bursa

On the west side of Bursa, in the village of Çekirge are natural thermal spring baths whose fame has spread throughout the East and the source of all of them is from Mt. Olympus.

Reading Tip: 10 Useful Things to Know before Visiting Turkey

History lovers gather round, you do not want to miss out on visiting the ruins of Ephesus and the surrounding area, which was once an ancient Greek city. It’s not only the biggest area of excavation in the world but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Located just outside of Selçuk, it was once considered to be the most important Greek city and trading center in the Mediterranean region.

Few ancient landmarks stand quite as impressive as the ruins of this ancient city. Immerse yourself in the ancient history of this place, although thousands of years have gone by, it is nearly impossible not to be impressed by the history and remains of this once bustling city.

It’s also worth visiting the Temple of Artemis, Temple of Hadrian, and the Basilica of St John whilst in the area.

Ephesus is open to visitors every day of the week, and visiting hours may vary depending on the summer and winter seasons. The cost to enter the ruins is 60 TL (Turkish Lira) or about $10.

How to get to Ephesus

You can get to Ephesus from Selçuk by dolmuş (minibus) or taxi. They run every half hour between Selçuk bus station and the lower entrance of Ephesus archaeological site and the journey will take about 5-10 mins.

4. Pamukkale

The mineral white forests of petrified water, series of terraced warm pools of water and the numerous waterfalls that connect all these pools together make for a pretty dream-like landscape in Southwestern Turkey.

The terraces have been created from layers of travertine, white sediment that has been deposited by the hot springs that over time have solidified and become solid.

Platforms, cliffs, and terraces have been formed, entirely made up of this sediment, and you can understand why this place is called ‘cotton castle’ in Turkish, as they appear together as some kind of giant, white castle.

The temperature of the water that flows from the springs is roughly between 35 °C (95° F) to 100 °C (212° F) and you can bathe in mostly all of the 17 springs. They have been drawing visitors since the second century BC and it’s been said that Cleopatra herself bathed in these very pools.

Another one of Turkey’s impressive World Heritage Sites, this open-air spa makes for a completely unique and ancient UNESCO experience.

Reading Tip: Things to do in Pamukkale – The Complete Traveler’s Guide to Pamukkale

How to get to Pamukkale

From Istanbul: There are direct flights from Istanbul to Denizli Çardak, the nearest airport to Pamukkale. The cheapest option is then to go by shuttle bus from the airport to Denizli city’s bus station and catch a dolmuş that departs every 15-20 minutes to Pamukkale.

From Selçuk: Take a train to Denizli Çardak and then from there, take a dolmuş the same as mentioned above.

From Cappadocia: Take an overnight bus. They usually depart around 8PM and arrive the next day at 6AM.

Where to stay in Pamukkale

Read The Complete Guide to Pamukkale for our selection of best places to stay whilst visiting Pamukkale.

5. Gelemis /Patara

Gelemis is a small village completely off the beaten path and untouched by mass tourism. It’s set right at the edge of the coastline in the foothills of the gorgeous Taurus mountains and it’s the perfect place for expat artists in need of some inspiration.

Life here is organized around agriculture and apiculture (beekeeping). People grow all kinds of fruits and vegetables and the landscape is filled with small clusters of beehives.

Next to the village of Gelemis lies an 18km long stretch of beach that can be described not only as one of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches in all of the Mediterranean but is also the second most important nesting site in Turkey for the endangered loggerhead sea turtles.

Known as Patara, this beach and the surrounding area provide you with an ideal swimming and camping destination, founded by the Lycians during the Roman Empire, it also used to be one of the most important cities and seaports on the Turkish Riviera.

Patara happens to also be the birthplace of Saint Nicholas who was also known as Nikolaos of Myra, a 4th-century Christian saint who would later give rise to the traditional model of Santa Claus. You read that right, the infamous Mr Claus.

There are no tour companies that operate in Patara and everything is local or independent from the pensions where you can stay to the eateries that are run by local families, the only cafe on the beach is run by the local authority with the profits being put back in to support the local area.

The beach remains largely untouched by commercial development due to the city’s few surviving buildings, temples, bathhouses, colonnaded streets and theatre which are incredibly interesting to explore.

Patara is also the stage for a unique cultural event that we would recommend to everyone to attend; the annual Nomadic Walk.

Every year, the people of Patara organize a 10 km walk from Delikemer to Patara where the hikers follow the old Roman aqueducts which were used to bring water from Islamlar, a small town in the mountains, to Patara.

This walk also forms part of a 509 km footpath known as the Lycian Way. If you would like to know more about this event and maybe participate, have a look at our article In the Footsteps of the Nomadic Tribes .

How to get to Patara

Patara is 230 km South-West of Antalya, the easiest way to get there is to follow the coastal highway (highway D4000) through Kaş and Kalkan.

If you’re not in the mood to see the coast and rather see gorgeous mountain landscapes, there is an alternate route that follows highway 3500.

If you’re coming from Fethiye, follow the highway D4000 south for 73 km.

Where to stay in Patara

Hotels and pensions for less than €50/night:

• St. Nicholas Pension ( check price and availability here )
• Flower Hotel Patara ( check price and availability here )

6. Myra (Demre)

Myra was an ancient Lycian town that is now known as Demre.  Most of this ancient city has disappeared and all that remains today are its incredible ruins – an enormous Roman theatre, ancient Roman baths, and two huge necropolises that are carved in the vertical rock cliffs.

If you want to experience one of the most unique places to visit in Turkey, Myra ticks that box. 

The tomb of Saint Nicholas is also housed in the center of Demren at St. Nicholas Church, an ancient East Roman basilica church, built in 520 AD. I

t is noted for its remarkable wall frescos, architectural and religious significance and after a nearby river changed its course, the church was filled with silt and was buried but the frescoes remained intact which is why it remains to be one of many great places in Turkey to visit today.

If you like to see more of this area, check out our video Santa’s Tomb .

How to get to Myra

Demre is located almost halfway between Patara and Antalya. To visit this city just follow the coastal highway (D4000) east of Patara for 87 km.

The bohemian dream of Olympos is nestled amongst lush, pine forests and is the backdrop of Antalya province’s Mediterranean coast.

This is a truly spectacular place, where overgrown Lycian ruins sit within the surrounding forests, this is the place to come if you’re seeking some peaceful tranquility.

This ancient area is under protection which means no luxury hotel or resorts have permission to build, instead you have the opportunity to strip things back to nature and spend a night staying in one of the many Kadir Tree Houses and little wooden shacks.

Olympos is also one of the nesting sites for Caretta Caretta loggerhead sea turtles along Turkey’s Southern coast and it’s important to be respectful and follow the guidelines so as to not disturb their ancient nesting cycle during your stay. 

How to get to Olympos

Olympos is located 77 km north of Demre following the coastal highway (D4000).

As you will approach Olympos the highway will start going through a very high mountain pass. If you have time we would definitely recommend stopping to enjoy the view before continuing to the ruins, it’s totally worth it.

Where to stay in Olympos

The most famous way to spend your night here is in one of the many different tree houses scattered throughout the area. Below we have listed a few other accommodation options for you to choose from:

• Kadir’s Tree Houses (Kadir’in Yeri) are the most famous in Olympos and these were built by the founder of this place Kadir Kaya, 31 years ago. Check here for availability .
• Bayrams Tree Houses sit much closer to the beach in a quieter location. Nestled next to orange and pomegranate trees, there is also a lounge and bar area, the ideal place to sit around an open fire in the evening with a cold beer. Check here for availability .

Things to do in Olympos

If you’re up for a small mountain climb, Mount Chimaera is worth visiting whilst you are in Olympus.

It’s about a one-hour walk to see Yanartaş or alternatively, you can hop on a service bus or organize a car from your accommodation.

The climb will take you another half an hour approx to reach the top of this small mountain but it’s so worth it to make it to the top where you’ll witness a very unusual sight.

Yanartaş are flames that burn on their own and never go out made from a combination of natural gases that emerge like flames from the rock, burning day and night as they enter into contact with the air.

If you head to the top, just before sunset, you’ll see the flames at their most spectacular.

There are many areas around Olympos that are great for rock climbing. One of the most well-known areas for climbing is at Kadir’s Tree Houses where you will be able to find all the necessary supplies and gear for your level.

8. The Blue LAgoon / Ölüdeniz

The Blue Lagoon in Ölüdeniz is on the list of Turkey’s top UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The gorgeously vibrant, turquoise water within the lagoon boasts a tremendous array of different shades of blue great with a thin finger of beautiful white sand that curves around the water.

Add in a gorgeous mountainous backdrop and you’ll understand why this beach is considered to be one of the most beautiful places in Turkey and is one of the most photographed too.

For this reason, it’s important to note that it can be extremely busy with visitors.

If you’re after a more spacious way to view this site, why not consider taking to the skies and trying your hand at paragliding, soaking up the spectacular views from the air.

How to get to the Blue Lagoon

You can catch a bus from nearby Antalya, a resort town on the south coast that will take about 3.5 hours and cost you around €6.

9. The Lycian way / Fethiye to Antalya

Located on Turkey’s Tekke Peninsula, known historically as Lycia, the Lycian Way is a footpath that spans across 540 km of mountains, coastline, and valleys from Fethiye to Antalya.

A well-marked-out path takes you past many major archaeological sites, stretches of beautiful coastline and gorgeously lush pine forests and hiking the entire way would take you around a month to complete.

If you decide to walk this path, the route will take you past historical sites from the Greek culture and Roman Empires that date back to 8 BC, passing through traditional villages that seem untouched by tourism where you can find food and other supplies.

Your accommodation options whilst on this path are guest houses, village homes and basic B&Bs although, we might suggest camping as a fantastic option and depending on your location, it can be the easiest option whilst walking the Way.

It is possible to walk only parts of the way and depending on your hiking experience, you could choose the eastern part for the tougher hike especially close to Fethiye are particularly tricky.

The western part would be more suitable if you are not as experienced as this is the easier section of the way.

The best time to go would be either in the Spring March-May or in the Autumn months of September/October, that way you’re not walking in the sizzling summer heat and avoid the larger crowds of tourists.

Experiencing walking along the Lycian Way is a really special way to take in so many of the sights to see in Turkey.

Reading Tip: Cycling in Turkey – 3 Cycling Routes

How to get to the Lycian Way

The Lycian way starts in Olu Deniz, about 2 hours from the Dalaman airport and finishes in Antalya but you can find numerous access points to this path along the coast.

Since it connects the archaeological sites of Myra and Olympos, it is also very easy to access the path from these two locations.

Where to stay on the Lycian Way

We have included a link to a great website that lists a whole heap of places to stay whilst walking the Lycian Way. Find it here .

From incredible architecture, great food and some of the oldest mosques in Turkey, this is a brilliant city for you to load up on culture.

Konya is the Islamic capital of Turkey and home of the world-famous spiritual poet Rumi, known to the Turkish people as ‘Melvana’ – (the sainted one), and his tomb is kept within The Mevlana museum.

This mystic and Sufi saint loved all religions and followed his own religion which was love and his followers are known as the Whirling Dervishes.

The whirling is a form of Sama, a physically active meditation and is also called ‘Sufi spinning’. The Dervishes listen to music, whilst focusing on God and spin their body in repetitive circles, which is a symbolic imitation of the planets orbiting the sun.

This spinning dance represents a spiritual journey to enlightenment in which the Dervishes aim to reach the source of all ‘perfection’.

They seek through abandoning their egos and personal desires to find truth and cultivate inner peace so in turn, they can foster peace and world harmony.

Known as the heart and soul city, no trip would be complete without a visit to Konya, one of Turkey’s best cities.

How to get to Konya

From Istanbul or Ankara, it’s faster, more comfortable, and not much more expensive to take the high-speed train. Two trains leave daily between Istanbul and Konya, stopping at Eskişehir where you will have to change trains, taking in total about 4.5 hours.

If traveling by plane, Turkish Airlines has several flights each day between Istanbul and Konya.

Driving or hitchhiking – If you are coming from Antalya, follow the highway D4000 until you are in Kizilagac. From there take the D695 north and follow it until it becomes the highway D696. Continue following this road and you will arrive in Konya. The total distance from Antalya to Konya is 304 km.

Where to stay in Konya

Below, we’ve listed a few choices for accommodation whilst visiting Konya. Hotels and guesthouses for less than €50/night:

• Araf Hotel: see here for availability
• Rumi Hotel: check here for availability
• Bera Konya Hotel: see here for availability and prices

Things to do in Konya

If you want to truly experience the essence of Konya, take yourself to see an authentic Sema ceremony and watch the Whirling Dervishes perform.

The ceremony is a free event that takes place every Saturday night at 7 pm at the Mevlana Cultural Center and we would advise that you head there early to get yourself a seat with a great view.

Each show lasts about two hours and it’s a wonder to see.

11. Cappadocia

High on the Anatolian plateau, Cappadocia’s curious landscape resembles that of a fantasy world.

The rugged mountains, vast plains, and the formation of its valleys and landscape have been shaped by the frequent eruption of three volcanoes and created from layers of deposits of lava, volcanic ash and basalt.

Earthquakes and effects of erosion have contributed to the creation of Cappadocia’s famous ‘fairy chimneys, tall cone-shaped honey-colored rocks that have been slowly eroded into stunning sculptural forms that resemble minarets.

The history of Cappadocia is as rich and remarkable as its landscape. The first dwellers in this region were troglodytes or cave dwellers during the Bronze Age who carved out cave houses, churches and monasteries from this soft volcanic rock, creating settlements underground.

The cave houses were then used later on in history by Christians fleeing Roman persecution. Nowadays, locals in Cappadocia now inhabit many of these cave houses and treat them as their permanent homes.

Cappadocia is one of the best places in Turkey for families to meet in a unique tourist environment, a place for you to make some memories of a lifetime.

If you thought that the views were spectacular from the ground, imagine the mesmerizing view from 3200 feet above the ground in a hot air balloon?

Watch more about Konya and Cappadocia in the video Dancing Dervishes and Hot Air Balloons .

How to get to Cappadocia

Turkish Airlines has daily flights from Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir to the Nevşehir airport. From there, there is a bus that leaves from the airport at the top of every hour called the Tüzköy minibus.

This bus will take you to Gülşehir and from there you can catch a local city bus into the main city center of Cappadocia.

Where to stay in Cappadocia

• BUDGET: Old Town Stone House ( see availability here )
• MID RANGE: Lunar Cappadocia Hotel ( check prices here )
• LUXURY: Sultan Cave Suites ( find more info here )

What to do in Cappadocia

Voted as one of the best destinations in the world for hot air ballooning, Cappadocia attracts people from all over the world who want to set sail up into the clouds and take in the wonder of its incredible landscape from the sky.

If you choose a sunrise trip, you will be taken up for one hour over the fairy chimneys, orchards, and vineyards.

It’s wise to reserve your ticket ahead of time during the high season and the cheapest tickets for a standard flight are sold for about €90.

12. Sumela Monastery, Trabzon

Nestled in a cliff, 1200 meters above sea level is where you’ll find the Sumela Monastery in Trabzon province on Turkey’s Black Sea coast, which is said to be more than a thousand years old.

This Greek Orthodox Ministry, built in the year 346 AD holds both cultural and historical significance and is a prominent tourist attraction.

Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, built to house an icon of her that was believed to possess miraculous properties. Built high into a cliff, access to the building is via a steep path through the forest and then via a narrow stairway.

The principal areas of the Monastery are the Rock Church, kitchens, students’ rooms, a library, several chapels as well as a holy water fountain.

Both the inside and outside walls of the church have been covered in intricate and detailed frescoes that depict biblical scenes from the lives of the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ.

The murals of the chapel were painted in three different periods, on three different levels with most of those that are visible today dating back to the 18th century.

In 2000 the Monastery was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List and has been closed to the public since 2015 for safety reasons, however, the site was partially reopened in July 2020 after the completion of major restoration works.

This part of North-Eastern Turkey is quite unique with nearby Trabzon not only lying close to the Black Sea but also the epic Pontic Mountains passing through it, it’s an area of Turkey that has been sprinkled with bouts of silence and a lot of beauty.

How to get to the SUmela Monastery in Trabzon

From Trabzon, you should be able to get a dolmuş (pronounced dol-moosh) direct from the east-bound dolmus station located along the highway.

They leave twice a day at 11 AM and 2 PM in the summer.

Reading Tip: 10 Best Non-Touristy Cities to visit in Turkey

Artvin sits by the Black Sea, on the border of Georgia, and is yet another one of the beautiful places to visit in Turkey.

Surrounded by mountains, some reaching 4,000 metres, it’s dreamlike landscape carved by the Çoruh River (one of the longest-running in Turkey) is full of rock formations, steep valleys and forests of tall pine trees that will completely mesmerize all who visit.

This is a truly breathtaking place and among the wonders that everyone should see at least once.

This part of Turkey is also the area where you can find the Laz people. It’s a culture that has its very own language, called Laz that has been classified by UNESCO as an endangered language.

The Laz people have their own traditions, one of them involves the Tulum, a form of Turkish bagpipe that people dance the Horon to.

I visited this gorgeous place and met Evrim, the owner of a hostel there (see below) who is a descendant of the Laz people of Turkey.

I also had the honor of meeting Evrim’s father who told me all about the history and culture of the Laz people, recited some beautiful Laz poems and taught me some Laz words too.

How to get to Artvin

The fastest and easiest way to get there from Istanbul is to follow the highways E80 and E70 east. The road is long (1219 km) but you will see some of the most scenic landscapes that we have seen in Turkey.

You can fly from Istanbul to Erzurum (1hr 45 flight) and then from there you can take a bus (3h 36m bus) from Erzurum Otogar that leaves 5 times a day.

Where to stay in Artvin

Bageni Pansiyon is the perfect place to spend some time day gazing at the green valley below and the ocean in the distance.

Things to do in Artvin

The most popular reason for visiting and exploring this area is for its natural beauty and the various trekking and hiking opportunities on offer.

Mount Kaçkar is one of the highest mountains in Turkey and is the most popular trekking route.

The Trans-Kaçkar route that takes you through Yusufeli Yaylalar Village to Rize – Çamlıhemşin Ayder Highlands is another option for avid trekkers and mountaineering groups.

Visitors also travel here to try out some of the more adventurous activities to do in Turkey such as skiing, rafting and canoeing.

We really hope this article has helped you plan for your trip and that you’re no longer asking the question of, ‘where should I travel to in Turkey?’.

We have tried our very hardest to cover what we believe to be the best places to visit in Turkey and the top things to do whilst you are there. Wishing you the most magical of trips!

Don’t forget to check out the articles below, in which we tell you everything you need to know about this beautiful destination!

MORE TURKEY TRAVEL POSTS

• The 13 beautiful and unique places to visit in Turkey
• 10 best non-touristy cities to visit in Turkey
• 10 useful things to know to visit Turkey
• The complete guide to the miraculous pools of Pamukkale
• Top 17 things to do in Istanbul
• Backpacking in Turkey on a budget – How much does it cost to travel in Turkey
• Is Turkey dangerous? This is what we’ve learned so far!
• In the Footsteps of the Nomadic Tribes
• 25 photos that will trigger your wanderlust for Turkey
• What happens when you overstay your visa in Turkey
• One year of hitchhiking – the good, the bad, and the untold stories. Part 2: Turkey
• Cycling in Turkey: 3 great routes

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10 Useful Things to know to visit Turkey

10 Best Non-Touristy Cities to Visit in Turkey

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Backpacking in Turkey on a budget – How much does it cost to travel in Turkey?

One year of hitchhiking – the good, the bad and the untold stories. Part 2: Turkey

25 thoughts on “the 13 best places to visit in turkey”.

Thanks ! Was a great Post !

Thank you Kevin!

Hey! Loved the post and Im planning my trip. Whats the name and place of the hostel in Rize/Artvin?

Hi Hibbe, thank you so much! The name of this hostel is Bageni Pansiyon and it’s located in the mountains near the village of Findikli. You can find more info and the exact address of this hostel here: https://www.facebook.com/bagenipansiyon/

I came here as an aupair in 2017 and it is totally different than I thought. Turkey is a lovely country and thanks aupairinturkey, the agency in Turkey I had a chance to discover this country. You sohuld all visit here and people are so friendly

Thank you! We are visiting Turkey next week and want to avoid all of the conflict. We have based our trip on your itinerary and are looking forward to it (not hitting everything).

Hi Laura, very happy to hear you used this post as inspiration for your trip! Which places are you going to visit? Have a great trip and enjoy!!

Living in Turkey, this post put a big smile on my face. You’ve visited a diverse range of places and had some great experiences. We have a lot of dots to visit on our map of Turkey. The list keeps getting longer, regardless of how many places we visit. So when I read your post about overstaying on your visa, I could easily relate how that happened. Wishing you happy travels to come!

Hi Pascale! Your comment puts a smile on my face 🙂 Turkey has so many beautiful places and has so many varied experiences to offer! We still want to return to visit some places and regions that we had to skip last time. I can imagine that your list is only growing 😀 Where in Turkey are you based? Wishing you a great time exploring the country and ticking of your list 😀 Warm wishes!

Hi Cynthia, thank you for your kind wishes. We’re currently based in Faralya, which is near Fethiye. We do have plans to move around though!

thanks for the advice. what is effes?

Effes is a Turkish beer, I like it (and I’m from Belgium… 😉 )

Turkey has been on my radar after seeing so many beautiful pictures on Instagram. I would love to go on a hot air balloon in Cappadoci one day! And Pamukkale looks absolutely stunning!

You’ve discovered so many beautiful gems!! What’s your favorite??? I’m bookmarking this for when I take a trip to Turkey! I’d love to go to Pamukkale and Cappadocia most especially! And maybe ride on a hot air balloon! What a dream!

Woow! That’s one hell of an article. I loved every bit of it! I really like Turky, but i’ve been only to Istanbul so far. I really want to see each and every place you wrote about here and hopefully even more. Good luck on your trip! I admire u deeply! 🙂

Thank you Nastja 🙂 Turkey is a surprisingly varied ranging from fantastic beaches to stunning archaeological sites. Hope you go back there one day to explore more of this beautiful country!! 🙂

I was completely hooked to your post right from your first picture of Myra (and I ended up researching a lot about it later on). I have spent such little time in Turkey and I think it’s a shame. Bookmarking this post for planning my adventures there 🙂

Thanks!! Myra is definitely worth a visit! Where did you stay when you visited Turkey?

Turkey is a wonderland and all of these places that you have listed look breathtaking. Turkey has been in my bucket list since a long time and now I can’t wait to add these places in my bucket list. Amazing!

Pack your bags and go there NOW 🙂 We were very pleasant surprised when we discovered all these beautiful places that Turkey has to offer!!

All of these places look simply incredible, most of which I’d never heard of before! Patara and Myra remind me a lot of different archaeological sites in Jordan. I suppose given their geographical proximity they must share a little bit of history right? Also, I’ve never actually seen a photo of Cappadocia without balloons in it so haven’t ever fully appreciated the landscape. It definitely looks absolutely breathtaking!

Yes, Patara and Myra have definitely a similar look to the sites in Jordan. Cappadocia might be famous for its hot air balloon rides but we didn’t think that was the highlight of our visit there. That landscape is so outworldy and is beautiful to see with and without balloons 😉

Great post Nicholas, You posted covered almost all the must see sites Turkey. Love it. I must say that I had thought of visiting Turkey one day but the pictures from Myra, Pamukkale and Cappadocia are simply stunning. More interesting than the capital Istanbul, which everyone talks about.

Thanks man! We first had the idea to visit Istanbul but eventually never made it there. Instead we ventured through other parts of the country and we’re happy we did or we might have missed out on these beauties!

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What LGBTQ travelers need to know before visiting Turkey

Jun 8, 2023 • 4 min read

Last June authorities detained over 300 Pride participants at events in Istanbul © Kemal Aslan/AFP via Getty Images

Turkish summers are an attractive proposition, with the promise of white sandy beaches and boat parties providing the perfect summer escape.

But following the re-election of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan as president last month, members of the LGBTQ community believe they are being sent a message that Turkey is not a country where they will be welcome.

At the end of May, President Erdoğan used his victory speech  to speak out against what he termed "LGBT forces." "In our culture, family is sacred; no one can interfere," he told supporters. "We will strangle anyone who dares to touch it." 

Here's everything LGBTQ+ travelers and their allies should know if considering a trip to Turkey . 

What's the situation with LGBTQ+ rights in Turkey?

Unlike many majority-Muslim nations , homosexuality is legal in Turkey, and despite political hate speech, tolerance is often the norm in urban areas like Istanbul . 

Still, Turkey scores low on the LGBTQ+ acceptance meter compared to the rest of Europe. In 2022, ILGA-Europe ranked Turkey 48 out of 49 countries regarding LGBTQ+ equality. The absence of support keeps many locals in the closet: several people living in Turkey chose not to speak or to give only their first names when interviewed for this piece. 

Erdoğan has said the LGBTQ+ community is "spreading like the plague," and Pride parades regularly lead to arrests. In 2015, police sprayed Istanbul Pride marchers with tear gas and water cannons . Last June, authorities detained over 300 Pride participants at events around the city. 

For Kaan, a Turkish-born gay man who grew up in the nation's capital and relocated to the Netherlands in March, a lack of LGBTQ+ protections is one of the main reasons he chose to leave his home country. He cites the right to marry and gender discrimination as two of his deciding factors. "Hidden governmental pressure to make LGBTQ+ people invisible on TV influenced my decision to move most," he says.

Mustafa Korkmaz, an Istanbul-based tourism professional who runs two sites dedicated to LGBTQ+ travel in Turkey  and identifies as gay, remains optimistic. "LGBTQ+ life is better than it was 20 years ago," he says. "Taksim, the neighborhood where I live in Istanbul, is sort of a gay ghetto," he says, using language that started to define urban gay enclaves in cities like San Francisco in the 1960s. "I have transgender neighbors. There are 10 LGBTQ+ bars nearby." 

What should LGBTQ+ tourists know while touring Turkey? 

Kaan and Mustafa believe Turkey is safe for LGBTQ+ travelers if they take certain precautions. "Same-sex couples can walk hand-in-hand, arm-in-arm," says Kaan – a common way Turkish men express friendship. But public displays of affection like kissing are "not in the country's culture, even for straight people." 

What's expected of locals only sometimes applies to tourists. "People in the travel industry are more liberally-minded, in general," says Mustafa, and it's unlikely they'll experience discrimination in hotels or on tours. Still, it's best to use discretion – particularly in small, conservative towns, where adopting a "don't ask, don't tell" policy about sexuality and gender can safeguard against hostility.

Kaan considers most major cities – Istanbul, Ankara , Izmir , Antalya , Eskisehir , and Bodrum – safe to visit, though there aren't many opportunities for LGBTQ+-oriented attractions outside of Istanbul. 

But even in Bodrum, which Mustafa likens to rainbow flag-flying Mykonos , it's possible to run into prejudice. In 2021, travel blogger Ben Schlappig reported that several local hotels would not allow two men to stay in the same room -  a policy that discriminates against gay couples. Travelers worried about a potential issue should call ahead before booking a stay. 

What considerations should travelers make before visiting an anti-LGBTQ+ destination?

Some LGBTQ+ rights advocates call for travel boycotts to nations like Turkey, arguing that tourist dollars shouldn't line the pockets of unwelcoming regimes. Others see LGBTQ+ visibility as a form of grassroots activism achieved by supporting progressive local businesses that build bridges toward acceptance. 

But before getting caught in the crosshairs of travel ideology, it's essential to consider personal comfort and safety. If you have an easy time passing as straight or cisgender, discrimination might not pose a threat. Likewise, if the physical expression of same-sex desire isn't necessary while traveling, local customs might not hinder your happiness.

Kaan has visited 39 countries and doesn't allow discrimination to stop him from seeing new destinations. Still, when it comes to personal pleasure, he prefers countries where he doesn't have to hide his sexuality. 

The amount of intolerance you're willing to accommodate in your itinerary, however, is entirely up to you.  

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15 AWESOME THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN TURKEY WITH KIDS

Whether you are traveling with little kids or young teens, Turkey has numerous things to do and places to visit for those seeking a perfect family vacation. There are tons of activities to choose from, so once you seal the dates for the perfect family trip, it is time to plan the little details to spice it all up. Home to crystal clear coastlines, amazing cities to discover, trails, camping, and many other things, Turkey has it all to strengthen family bonds.

We all have been there; we all know it is a great challenge to travel with toddlers, especially when they are 2-3 years old. So, a 2 hours tour of a historical site would not get their attention and would not allow parents to enjoy it the most. But, if you mix-match things that everyone in the group enjoys, it would make all the difference. Without bragging about how we do this, here we have listed fifteen awesome things to see and do with kids in this thrilling country.

1. First Stop: Istanbul, The Capital of All Times

Well-connected with numerous countries, Istanbul is easy to get and has tons of things to do for families. The city population is around 20 million, and toddlers make up %10 of it while the total number of children is almost 4 million. So, you see where I am trying to get with these numbers; Istanbul is a heaven for kids! Since there are too many things to do in this destination alone, here we have made a separate list for some of the best options:

Rahmi Koc Museum

Founded by Rahmi Koc in 1994, one of the richest and highly respected families in the country, the museum is dedicated to the history of transport, industry, and communications. The industrial museum is more of a “boys” featuring a remarkable collection of trains, cars, boats, buses, planes, engines, and even a WWII-era submarine you can visit paying an extra charge. It also has a workshop for children if you would like to follow the event calendar and signup for one.

Bosphorus Cruise

Almost any kid loves to be o a boat, and if it is Istanbul, it makes it a double-bonus! A nice cozy ride along with the historical landmarks and waterside villas on a private motor-yacht, soft drink, tea-coffee, and fruit plate or cookie service, and if the sea traffic is quiet, your kids can be the captain for a couple of minutes (they love it). Don’t forget to buy some Turkish bagels (simit) as you will need a lot for the seagulls following your ride.

Here this package includes a private ride on Bosphorus.

Legoland Theme Park

Among 26 other locations worldwide, Istanbul Theme Park has more than 5 million pieces of bricks. Besides build & learn activities, Legoland offers a beautiful Istanbul-themed mini-park, 4-D cinema, kingdom quest, creative workshops, factory tour, and many other fun things. It is best to get there earlier by booking an online ticket as it might get pretty packed, especially during the weekends and public holidays.

Istanbul Toy Museum

Founded by the Turkish poet Mr. Sunay Akin in 2005, the museum has an exceptional collection of 4000 pieces. It is a perfect call for children at any age between 6 and 18 and parents reading the history of different cultures starting from the 1860s. This museum is on the Asian side of Istanbul and makes a perfect en-route visit if you are planning to tour the Asian side or if you are on your way to catch a late afternoon flight from Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) Airport.

Hands-on Cooking

No doubt you have already heard about the legendary Turkish Food that you will be enjoying in each city. Thanks to its population, Istanbul has everything and offers different types of cooking classes. If you are traveling with preschoolers, choosing your fish from the market and let them enjoy seeing how it is cooked would be an alternative. If you are touring with young teens or teenagers, even better, you might want to include a food tour as well that will encourage them to become more open-minded eaters.

Princes’ Islands

If you have plenty of time or a leisure day that you are not sure how to benefit it, Prince’s Islands might be one good alternative where you can also escape from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul. Taking a 90 minutes ferry ride to Buyukada, you can enjoy strolling around the island (approx. 4 km route), hiring bicycles or tandems (which is pretty fun for kids), and stay at a nice hotel with an outdoor pool for the day. The next morning after breakfast, you can walk down to the ferry dock and enjoy the ride back to the city center.

Basilica Cistern

Among some other underground cisterns of Istanbul, this one has the Medusa heads on the columns and might attract your teenagers if they are especially into Mythology. Brief them, you are on your way for an adventure going underground to see a sea of columns inside one of the oldest cisterns.

Galata Tower

If not on the second day of Istanbul, you may want to include Galata Tower on your bucket list of the family vacation. The tower is 60 meters in height and will offer you stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline. Take some photos while enjoying the story of the legendary 17th-century Ottoman aviator Hezarfen Ahmed Celebi who flew from the very top of the Galata Tower and landed Uskudar on the Asian side of Istanbul.

As the name entails, Miniaturk is an open-air museum of Turkey’s significant highlights and historical sites, consisting of 135 models at 1:25 scale of the original monuments and places. It will make them feel like Disney’s The BFG walking through the monuments and strengthening your architectural knowledge of the different civilizations. Some of these features are monuments, obelisks, castles, tombs, bridges, synagogues, churches, caravanserais, mosques, palaces, mansions, and many more.

Istanbul Naval (Maritime) Museum

Home to over 20,000 pieces, the Istanbul Maritime Museum is the biggest naval museum in Turkey, listed among the world’s most leading ones. It has a rich collection of navigation devices, ship accessories, seals, ornaments, coins, scrolls, pennants, lanterns, amphoras, clocks, costumes, stamps, and inscriptions, and many more.

Istanbul Aquarium

Children usually love animals, and nothing inspires them more than getting close and connected with nature. Home to approx. 1500 species of 17,000 land & sea creatures of over 1500 species, Istanbul Aquarium will amaze you for how it is designed regarding the theme it offers from the Black Sea to the Pacifics. You might need a full day of visit for this biggest thematic aquarium in the world. The innovative technology used in each section will keep your kids interested while they will love the rain forest, interactive games, movies, and other visual graphics.

Vialand (Isfanbul) Theme Park

If you have young children and have a free day that you don’t know how to fulfill, this might be an alternative for half of that day while there are attractions for smaller kids due to size limitations (mostly 120 cm height). Most fairly monotonous, the theme park is still among the top list of families who are looking for a big shopping mall and something fun for the kids at the same time.

Nostalgic Red Tram

The carriage is not only fun for honeymooners or those visiting during new years eve, but it is also pretty fun for kids while it runs along the famous Istiklal Street of Taksim. If you have a plan to stroll around this neighborhood, your kids might enjoy a one-way ride traveling back in time with this nostalgic ride from the 1900s.

Madame Tussauds

Another hands-on activity for kids at a workshop at Madame Tussauds is a chain wax statues museum. More than 60 famous characters, including Einstein, Ataturk, Madonna, Leonardo Da Vinci, Mozart, and many others, are exhibited in real-sizes. These statues are super real and a perfect opportunity to stop by and get a photo taken with your kids’ favorite celebrity. The museum offers five different science and culture themes, VIP, history, and legendary leaders. While the idea is to experience wax art, your kids will also enjoy some of the other activities inside.

There is more to list for this city itself, such as cooking classes, spice market for Turkish Delights, ice skating, art museums, etc. However, we believe that you have an idea about some of the top things to do in Istanbul now, and rest assured, we will be recommending more of the other gems while planning your itinerary.

2. Head to Cappadocia: The Land of Fairy Towers

Once children hear the word “adventure” and learn that the adventure includes hot-air balloons, nothing can beat Cappadocia! Upon landing, seeing the snowy peak of Erciyes (if you are visiting in winter, you might consider enjoying a full day of skiing there as well), after an hour’s drive, you will be checking in to your family-friendly cave hotel and rest. The next morning, watching this jaw-dropping landscape from the hot-air balloon (age limit: 6) will be the best start, yet there is a lot more to do today. After breakfast, going down for 4 or 6 floors in an underground city cave, trying to understand the fairy chimney rock formations, enjoy a pottery-making session, do some short hiking at some of the best valleys, or do the same track on a horse and many more. Besides the educational value with its millions of years of history, this is a dream place for kids. While they will enjoy the peaceful, pollution-free atmosphere after Istanbul, their minds will still be pretty busy using their imagination about geography.

Till this far, you will already easily cover a one-week itinerary in Turkey (meaning ideal for a spring break). From here onward, plan to spend anything one to two more weeks.

3. Aquapark Adaland (Kusadasi)

If an aquapark is the centerpiece of your family trip, then this place might be for you. Aquapark Adaland Kusadasi has a ton of activities and water sports to fulfill your day. A big family slide, water coaster, loop slides, kids pool, activity pool, wave pool, lazy river, rafting, and safari park are among the top things to do at this resort. If you would like, Ephesus is pretty close and would sauce up the trip with some educational and historical value.

4. Let Them Run Wild at the Beach

Children adore freedom, and after visiting Istanbul and Cappadocia, there is no better way to give them what they well-deserved! Turkey is a haven of crystal clear beaches  and depending on the ages of your kids, there is a great variety of family-friendly accommodation from all-inclusive resorts to private villas or connecting family rooms. Starting from Cesme on the west, Marmaris, Fethiye, Bodrum, and Antalya are among the best family beach vacations.

5. Cirali Beach & Olympos: Camp Around

If your group consists of youngsters interested in camping in tents or treehouses, hiring one around the ancient Lycian ruins of Olympos might be one of the options. While the area is rather popular amongst the hippie backpackers, there is a luxury hotel just by the beach and some family bungalows that are pretty reasonably priced. The Chimera is another visit that can be reached with 40 minutes of hiking up the hill to see the eternal flames burning for thousands of years.

6. Oludeniz: Go Hiking Along the Lycian Way

Exploring parts of the Lycian Way is a fantastic way to soak up the beautiful views of the Mediterranean slowly. Listed as one of the world’s top 10 great walks, the full trail is about 540 km taking approximately 29 days from Oludeniz in Fethiye to Antalya. It may not be suitable to walk the entire length with the kids, but a short version such as the trails around Oludeniz would be a great alternative to exercise for half-day and early in the morning. The trails are waymarked and generally consisting of hard and stony ground.

In addition to the Lycian Way, there is paragliding and a blue flag beach in Oludeniz that you will be able to include some water sports.

7. Take Your Kids on a Fabulous Seakayaking Ride

Another popular family fun is to do sea kayaking that is best done in a beautiful Mediterranean town called Kas. Less than an hour’s drive away, either privately or with a group, you can enjoy a full or half-day tour around the preserved Sunken City of Lycia in Kekova. Enjoying a lunch break, you can take some beautiful photos from the Simena Castle built by the Knights of Malta.

Since this is a single day activity, we would recommend more than a day at this mesmerizing place. It is also one of the best places for scuba diving, hiking, biking, coasteering, standup paddleboarding (SUP), etc.

The famous Kaputas beach is also close by if you would like a beach as most of the hotels in Kas are built on a platform by the water, and if you have smaller kids, you might instead enjoy Kaputas.

Finally, Saklikent Gorge and Xanthos would make another excellent day trip if you have enough days to spend on the above recommendations.

8. Bodrum: An Amazing Family Vacation Spot

Listen, as one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, Halicarnassus is a pure posh for those seeking a better summer vacation. From daily gulet trips to the accommodation with a kids club and all other activities, Bodrum has many family things to do.

It has over 70 blue flag beaches with a great variety of sandy to pebbly coves, and almost all offer a nice selection of cafes, restaurants, and other families that every family may need. If you are in the mood of doing some water sports, Gumbet might be an ideal option for you that has parasailing, banana, and kayaking.

Don’t forget to squeeze in the Bodrum Castle and its newly-renovated Underwater Archaeology Museum that offers a beautiful education of underwater life for youngsters.

As there is a direct ferry to Kos from Bodrum, you can do a daily visit to Kos. If Greece is your next destination after Turkey, you can also benefit from the idea of a fast-ferry connection to Rhodes via Kos, then to Mykonos or Santorini, and finally to Athens before home.

9. Antalya: Explore the Wonders of the Mediterranean

Antalya is not only a haven for chain resorts, yet it can be an excellent base if you would like to benefit from the kids club on some days and escape for an adventure when desired. It gets even better if you are vacationing with older kids or teenagers.

Besides some of the most preferred blue flag beaches within the destination, Lara is one of the top choices. There is an aquarium in the city center. For adventure lovers, Koprulu Canyon National Park is the best beat in the country for rafting.

10. Splash Away at the Natural Hot Pools of Pamukkale

The hot springs of Pamukkale is another great spot for a fun mixture of history and relaxation. The ancient health center has a wide terrace of thermal pools on a hill formed out of calcium and carbon dioxide. The water comes out of the ground, and it gets to the pools with channels, and besides the travertine terrace, there is an antique pool of Cleopatra that is open and warm enough to swim all year-round.

The only handicap of the site is that it might get invaded by tour buses during the peak season. Yet, you can still explore the historical site of Hierapolis and splash away at the natural hot pools with relish by planning the day wisely to avoid any crowds.

11. Have a Dream Trip on a Private Yacht

If all-inclusive or kids club is not your style, then let’s splurge the luxury! Chartering a private traditional gulet yacht is one of the best ideas for large family vacations. Embarked at one of the ports of Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, or Antalya, you will set the sails off for one of your best family moments. A highly experienced crew will take care of the cooking, arranging water sports and visits relying on your preferences, and why not let the kids catch some fish and enjoy a barbeque night together?

Here is a 14-day family trip that is blended with some other great experiences.

12. Turkish Ice Cream Challenge

After all the sweet treats of lokum (Turkish delight) in Spice Market, this fun experience is another one you will not be able to miss unless you are hiking in the mountains for the entire trip. Spotting the ice-cream cart easily at one of the popular streets or sites, you will see the ice-cream vendor in his traditional dressing, ringing the bell hanging down the cart with his long scoop. Once you are in the line and ready to get the delicious ice-cream made out of milk, mastic, and orchid tubers, you will be enjoying the vendor’s tricks till you get the complete piece. This is a traditional and fun part of the process that you should let the kids enjoy the challenge.

13. Hamam (Turkish Bath) Experience

Sweating on the marble “belly” stone, scrub massage, relax and enjoy a glass of fresh tea. Turkish Baths have been one of the best gathering areas in the culture for hundreds of years, especially before we did not have that much technology in our lives. Imagine it more like a spa, yet in a more traditional concept. If you arrive in Istanbul early enough, and if your kids are over four years old, then this is a perfect start for the family trip. Since hot baths are good for blood circulation and vascular function, you will feel ready to kick the road the next day and get over the jetlag much easier.

14. The First Cittaslow Town of Turkey: Akyaka

If your family is interested in eco-friendly holidays or if you have not been to such a slow city before, yet looking for a place to recharge, then this might be the place to hit the nail on the head! Located on the south Aegean coast of Turkey, Akyaka was designated a slow city by Cittaslow International in 2010. Since then, it has been one of the country’s most visited towns out of the other 17 towns registered as a slow city.

It is home to some endangered animals and surrounded by numerous unique beauties, just resting by the Azmak River and enjoying a slow village breakfast is priceless! While Akyaka has a beautiful beach with crystal clear shallow waters, Akcapinar Beach is also close by, regarded as one of the hotspots for kite surfing. Sedir Island, aka Cleopatra Beach, is another attraction known for its unique golden sand known and its ancient city of Cedrae.

15. Eskisehir Science Arts and Culture Park: Sazova

While the beautiful blue castle might remind you of Disney World, it is named “Fairytale Castle,” designed with eight beautiful main towers representing Turkish monuments. As an alternative to many other day trips from Istanbul, Eskisehir can be reached with a speed train trip of 2.5 hours or a direct flight, which might take longer considering the airports’ arrival and departure times.

As the name implies, the castle offers different fairytale themes that kids can join and enjoy the roleplay of their favorite characters. There are other attractions in Sazova Park, such as a pirate ship, an aquarium, a science museum, and many others that will keep your kids amused the whole day.

Important note: if you think it will be a Disney World experience, it will end with disappointment. Thus, if Eskisehir is en route to your road trip adventure, then it might worth and don’t forget to take a gondola ride on the Porsuk River.

Travel Checklist & FAQ for Families Planning A Trip to Turkey

How much does it cost for a week’s trip with the family.

While it is hard to give a concrete answer for this, you can expect to pay anything from 8000 EUR to 15,000 EUR for a nice trip. These are the best possible sample averages for sure, considering the number of travelers will be two adults + 2 or 3 kids, and rates are based on 2020.

Immunization Records & Allergy Notes

It is always better to stay up to do with the regular vaccinations before traveling, not only to Turkey but basically anywhere. Before leaving your home country, please check your country’s official travel advisory and get professional medical recommendations as parents will make the final decision.

Some of the routine vaccines recommended by the CDC are the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and the annual flu shot.

Photocopies of Passports

Just like the e-Visa that you will be getting online, print a copy of your passport only in case they might get lost or stolen. Pickpocketing has been away from the streets for many years now, almost all around the country, but it is better to have a “Plan B” than to be sorry.

Baby Seat Notes

While booking your trip, please make sure both the airlines or flight ticketing agency and your travel advisor have all the baby seat notes for private transportation and domestic air tickets.

Which Part of the Plane?

Turkish Airlines is a family-friendly company, and most flight attendants are well-trained to serve families on long hauls. Depending on the airline company, you can choose or buy seats in advance or during the online check-in, be ready to select your seats, thinking what the best for your baby and your family is.

Since most planes are noisy in the back where the restrooms and the space for staff are located, the best is to go as upfront as possible. This will give you the advantage of getting served first, a quieter moment for the sleep, and, most importantly, get in and exit first if you are especially traveling with carry-ons.

Travel Kit for Kids

If you are going with an age group of 3 to 8 years old, they might want to pack their own backpack to get into the travel mood while you are packing. While lots of toys might already eat the whole space, you can get one of the favorite toys. Some of the alternatives are drawings, workbooks, paintings, digital tablets for emergencies, lollipops, or other types of candy they like, tissues & wet pipes, some snacks, and medication.

Note for medication: if not the exact, there will be a similar brand for what you are looking for. So, you don’t really need to pack all, but get the must-have ones for the plane, plus if they are on any special prescriptions.

Games on the Plane

Taking a few new games will make them happy and keep you entertained if you especially have kids 6+ ages. Boogie board, scrabble, bingo, the cube, or similar travel games are generally easy to pack and don’t cover a lot of space. If you are enjoying a gulet trip , then some extra card games that are unique to your home country can go in the luggage as well.

If you have older children, their reaction to traveling overseas will be similar to parents. However, if you are traveling with toddlers or younger kids, then you might want to take some precautions, such as adjusting their sleeping time slowly before the travel starts. If it fits in your schedule, it might be useful to plan the arrival day as a “recovery day” to adjust. The same applies to the last day of the trip before returning home. In addition to the Hamam experience recommended above on the list, you can get some melatonin to help you get over the jetlag faster.

Most toy shops in Turkey offer a great variety, but these places are majorly out of your travel routes as big brands like Toys Shop, Armagan Oyuncak, or similar stores are located at malls. You will be finding some local handmade dolls and wood-made toys, but those are pretty rare compared to the past, like many other handicrafts. Thus, we would recommend you bring some favorite toys with you that will save your life during any crisis.

Turkish people adore children in general, and most of the restaurants within the country are family-friendly. It is not that 100% of them will have high chairs or children’s menus, but a significant number of them will still have those. So, you will be able to find a lot of options throughout the entire trip.

Our guides are also used to accompany family tours. They will be selecting the restaurants accordingly and sharing their recommendations for the evening if you would like to dine out at a walking distance restaurant.

There are more than ten different qualities that you can easily get, even at corner groceries. If it is to recommend something, Prima might be a better option than others (we were happy with this brand and used it for both of our kids).

Babysitters

At almost any of the destinations mentioned above, we will be able to get you a babysitter if you would like to enjoy fine or romantic dining in Istanbul or elsewhere, or if your kid is under six years old and can’t go on the hot-air balloon in Cappadocia. The rates would be starting from 30-40 EUR per hour that may vary depending on the season and destination.

Big cities such as Istanbul and Antalya are pretty comfortable with strollers. However, Cappadocia or Ephesus might be challenging due to the cobblestone or rough ground. So, an easy-to-pack baby carrier or an all-terrain stroller might save your life at these locations.

Just as many other add-ons for families, laundry is something that will not also cost an arm and a leg. Most hotels have it available, but make sure to check it with your travel advisor before getting to the next destination if the laundry is better and accessible here or there.

Recommendations for Booking Your Hotel and Travel Services

Make sure to note every little detail such as baby car seat, baby crib, kettle for boiling water when needed, etc. By doing so, you will not have to worry about these before arrival as some hotels have limited cribs or extra beds, and especially during the peak season, if there are many families alike, they might have run out of it once you check-in to your hotel.

Plan Your Family Vacation in Turkey with Made in Turkey Tours

Turkey is a haven for a memorable family vacation, and it has more than everything you need that a destination can offer. As experts in travel and traveling as a family since 2016, let us plan you a customized trip that your kids will be thrilled to go along with by implementing all the fantastic activities for kids of all ages and families of all sizes in Turkey and neighboring countries.

• Travel Updates

Tourist dies getting ‘Brazilian bum-lift’ in Turkey, organs missing from body

A 38-year-old mum died after flying to Turkey for plastic surgery. But it was what was discovered after her death that horrified family.

Plane crash in Thailand kills all on board

‘Scary’ ordeal before man climbed out plane

Aussie son, dad skydive ends in tragedy

A British mum-of-two has died after having “Brazilian bum-lift” surgery in Turkey that she hoped would change her life.

Hairdresser Kaydell Brown, 38, from Sheffield in England, paid $10,500 for the procedure as well as a tummy tuck and a boob job, The Sun reports.

Her devastated sister Leanne, 40, who was due to have the same surgery, slammed the Istanbul clinic as a “shop that needs shutting down”.

The UK’s Foreign Office says 28 Brits have died after having cosmetic surgery in Turkey since 2019.

Kaydell jetted over for the surgery, which would have cost around $30,000 in the UK, in the hopes it would get her life “back on track”.

Kaydell and Leanne were in high spirits as they walked through arrivals at the airport in Turkey.

Two days later, Leanne who was due to be operated on next, was informed by medics that her sister had died in the recovery room.

Staff said they tried to wake Kaydell up after surgery and some fat must have travelled to her lungs.

Devastated Leanne recalled how the clinic broke the heartbreaking news to her.

Leanne told ITV News: “She went in for surgery about 9.30am and that was the last time I saw her.

“I was in the room waiting for her to come back. I’d asked a few times where she was, how long she was going to be and they just kept saying she was coming and then I got a knock on the door.

“Three people walked in and said, can you come with us please?

“They took me to a room and they just started trying to say, you know, there’s complications with surgery, you know things can happen. And I said, ‘has my sister died?’ And he just said, ‘I’m sorry, but yeah’.”

Leanne was in deep shock and the clinic, it seemed, wanted to get her home.

She added: “They just gave me an envelope and said here’s your money back and here’s your sister’s money back.

“And here’s your flight. It’s like, sorry she’s dead, here’s your plane ticket.

“When you go in and you’re paying, they’re your best friends but when something goes wrong, you’re left to yourself, it’s goodbye.”

Leanne said she was refused permission to see her sister’s body and a flight back to the UK was arranged by the clinic.

The next day, Leanne was back at the airport – dazed, alone and fighting back tears as she headed home.

When Kaydell was eventually examined by a coroner in the UK, more devastating news was to come, large parts of her brain, lungs and heart were missing.

A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care said: “Our sympathies are with the family of Kaydell Brown.

“The UK government has been actively engaging with the Turkish government on how to support the safety of patients who decide they wish to travel to Turkey for medical treatment.

“We urge anyone considering a cosmetic procedure abroad to research the treatment in question, the qualifications of their clinician and the regulations that apply in the country they are travelling to.”

ITV News tracked down the team at the cosmetic surgery clinic in question.

Their written response read: “No evidence of organ trauma was found. We have handed the body untouched to the Coroner’s Office (in Turkey).”

The clinic added: “It is highly possible parts were removed while trying to determine the cause of death.”

Over a million foreigners visit Turkey for medical procedures every year – among them, 150,000 Britons.

And the number of British citizens travelling to Turkey is increasing faster than any other nationality, drawn by the cheap prices.

More Coverage

Since 2018, The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons estimates the NHS has spent almost $9.7 million on corrective surgery.

A total of 78 per cent of procedures carried out in the UK were on people who’d had original procedures done in Turkey.

This article originally appeared on The Sun and was reproduced with permission

A plane carrying tourists has crashed shortly after taking off from Bangkok. All nine on board are believed to have died.

A Jetstar passenger has described the moment a fellow passenger opened the emergency exit where he was seated and climbed out.

An Aussie father-of-six has died in a skydiving incident, leaving behind a grieving family who fear they may lose their home.

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Home > How To Enjoy A Family Holiday In Turkey Kids Will Love

How To Enjoy A Family Holiday In Turkey Kids Will Love

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

I knew from my own travels that Turkey was a fascinating country with a diverse landscape and culture. But when I wanted to plan a Turkey family vacation, I was wondering where in Turkey is best for a family holiday…

I spoke to several people I knew who had been with kids and my friend who lives there and then decided that, yes, Turkey is a great place to travel with kids, as some many activities and attractions would appeal to them. Based on my own experiences and those of my friends, here is how to have a family holiday in Turkey that the kids will love.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Family-Friendly Activities To Enjoy On Your Next Turkey Holiday

Are you planning your next Turkey family holiday and looking for things to do that everyone will enjoy? Look no further! From exploring ancient ruins to relaxing on beautiful beaches, Turkey offers a variety of fun activities for the whole family.

In this post, we’ve compiled a list of family-friendly activities that will make your next holiday in Turkey unforgettable. So grab the sunscreen and prepare for an adventure-packed trip with your loved ones!

Turkey is a land of great history and culture and a great place to take your family trip. There are plenty of things to see and do that will appeal to all age groups, so you’re sure to find something everyone will enjoy.

Here are just a few ideas for family-friendly activities to enjoy on your next Turkey holiday:

• Visit the ancient city of Ephesus: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey. It’s easy to see why – the ruins of this once-great city are truly impressive. Take a guided tour or explore independently; either way, your family will be amazed by what they see.
• Going on a cruise down the Bosphorus is a must-do activity when visiting Istanbul . You’ll see some of the city’s best sights from the water, including the famous Dolmabahce Palace. Keep your camera handy, as you’ll want to take lots of photos!
• Take a scenic cable car ride: Don’t miss out on riding in one of Turkey’s iconic cable cars. The fantastic landscape is a great way to get up close and personal. Ride the Tunektepe Teleferik cable car for panoramic views, visit both the upper and lower Duden Waterfalls
• Explore an underground city: Derinkuyu is the largest and best-preserved underground city in Cappadocia
• Take a boat ride on the Bosphorus Strait: This activity is excellent for kids of all ages. Sit back and enjoy the views as you cruise down this historic waterway separating Europe and Asia
• Visit the ancient city of Ephesus: Kids will love exploring the ruins of this ancient city. Take a tour of the historical sites and point out all the interesting features, such as the Temple of Artemis and the Library of Celsus

But..what else can you do in Turkey with the kids in tow? Let us show you;

Take A Day Trip To The Land Of The Fairy Chimneys

Turkey is home to some of the world’s most unique and beautiful geological formations. The fairy chimneys of Cappadocia are a must-see for any visitor to the country, and there is no doubt that the kids will be enthused. 

These strange rock formations were created by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. Over time, the lava cooled and hardened into a soft rock called tufa. Wind and rain then carved out the distinctive cone shapes we see today.

The best way to explore the fairy chimneys is on foot. There are many hiking trails in Cappadocia that wind through these otherworldly landscapes. You can also take a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s eye view of the area.

If you’re traveling with young children, they will love visiting the Goreme National Park.

Enjoy The Rest Of The Scenery In Cappadocia

Cappadocia is one of Turkey’s most popular tourist destinations , and it’s easy to see why. The area is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country, with its unique rock formations and beautiful valleys.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the scenery, whether hiking through the valley, on a jeep safari  or taking a hot air balloon ride over the landscape. Whichever way you choose to explore, you’re sure to be amazed by the natural beauty of Cappadocia.

One of the best ways to appreciate the region’s scenery is by hiking through the valleys. This allows you to get up close and personal with the rock formations, and you may even spot some of the region’s native wildlife.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

For a good reason, Goreme National Park is one of Turkey’s most popular tourist destinations. The park is home to some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes, including the Cappadocia region with its unique “fairy chimney” rock formations. A hot air balloon ride over Goreme National Park is a truly magical experience that the whole family will enjoy. You’ll float above the stunning scenery, getting a bird’s eye view of the fairy chimneys, valleys, and caves below. It’s an unforgettable way to experience this natural wonderland.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience for the whole family, look no further than a hot air balloon ride over Goreme National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in Turkey, and there’s no better way to take it all in than from up high.

Your kids will be wide-eyed with wonder as you float over fairy chimneys, caves, and valleys – it’s an experience they’ll never forget. And when you land, there’s plenty more to explore on foot. Goreme National Park is home to several hiking trails, so you can all stretch your legs and take in even more of this incredible place.

• Theme Parks In Turkey

Turkey is the perfect destination if your kids are looking for a fun-filled vacation. The country is home to several world-class theme parks that will keep your little ones entertained for hours on end. From thrilling roller coasters to relaxing water slides, there is something for everyone at these top Turkish theme parks.

• Dalaman Aquapark: This water park is located in Dalaman and features many slides and pools for both adults and children. There is also a wave pool, lazy river, and playground area for the little ones
• Vialand: Vialand is Istanbul’s largest theme park and offers something for everyone. The park has over 50 rides, including roller coasters, carousels, and bumper cars. There is also a shopping center, restaurants, and cafes on site
• Aqua Fantasy Aquapark: This water park in Kusadasi is one of the largest in Europe and features over 30 slides and attractions. The park has a wave pool, lazy river, and kids’ swimming pool area.
• Dinopark: Dinopark is located in Antalya and features over 80 life-size dinosaur models spread out over its enormous grounds. Visitors can also enjoy several rides, including a roller coaster and bumper cars
• Movie Park: This park in Istanbul is perfect for movie buffs. It features rides based on popular films, such as “Jurassic Park” and “The Hunger Games,” as well as a 4D cinema

Turkey is a land of endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, and its theme parks are no exception. From world-renowned roller coasters to thrilling water slides, there is something for every thrill seeker at these top Turkish theme parks. So whether your kiddos are looking for a heart-pounding adrenaline rush or a more relaxed day of exploring, be sure to add one (or more!) of these family-friendly destinations to your Turkey travel itinerary.

Visit Local Attractions In The Cities

If you’re looking for fun, family-friendly activities to enjoy on your next Turkey holiday, look no further than Ankara ! This vibrant city has plenty to offer visitors of all ages, from exciting historical attractions to lively public parks.

One of the best ways to explore Ankara is by foot, so be sure to pack comfortable shoes for walking around.

• Start your sightseeing at the iconic Anitkabir , the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey. 
• Visit Kocatepe Mosque , one of the largest mosques in the country, before continuing to Golkoyu Cave Houses.
• Genclik Park, Ataturk Forest Farm, and Animal Zoo are great for outdoor fun and strolls.
• Eat Local: And no visit to Ankara would be complete without sampling some of the delicious local cuisines! Be sure to try dishes like kebabs , Turkish coffee, and Baklava for a truly authentic experience.
• Top Ways To Enjoy Ankara

Bursa is also called “Yesil Bursa,” which means ‘green Bursa.’ This is because the landscape in and around the city is surprisingly green and lush for such a large city, and it’s overlooked by the huge Uludag mountain range – a very popular ski area for locals and international visitors alike.

There is plenty to see and do in and around Bursa , and much of it is historical, however, there are a few additional family-friendly activities to add in around your history tours, including the flooded forests of Karacabey , the Bursa Zoo , the Chocolate Museum, and the Botanical Gardens .

Grand Mosque Of Bursa &  Green Mosque

The Grand Mosque Of Bursa  is, without a doubt, a must-visit during your stay in Bursa. The temple was built in 1399 when the Ottoman Sultan wanted to create a mosque commemorating his battle success. This mosque is now on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites .

Another beautiful mosque you should visit is The Green Mosque, named due to the trees and gardens surrounding it. The mosque itself was constructed in 1419, and the architecture and carvings are incredibly detailed. Inside, be sure to look at the intricately decorated ceilings.

Uludag Mountain

If nature is your thing, Uludag Mountain won’t disappoint. This is a very popular ski resort, but even if you don’t plan to ski, it’s perfect for views and nature, regardless of the season. You can easily take the cable car from Bursa, giving you impressive views.

Cumalıkızık

At the bottom of Uludag, you will find this charming village that is UNESCO-listed. With a much calmer and slower pace of life, you won’t only experience history, but you’ll be able to get a real feel of authentic life.

The cobbled streets are full of surprises, with exceptional restaurants where you can try homemade food. You’ll also find old houses to explore too.

The city of Istanbul is a must-visit for any family interested in Turkish culture. There are many things to see and do in Istanbul, from visiting the Blue Mosque to taking a relaxing boat trip on the Bosphorus.

• How To Enjoy Istanbul With Kids

Exploring The Bazaars Of Istanbul

Istanbul is a city with a rich history and culture, and its bazaars are one of the best places to experience this. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and most well-known of Istanbul’s bazaars, and it is a great place to find Turkish souvenirs and gifts .

The Spice Bazaar is another popular bazaar, and it is known for its wide selection of spices and herbs. If you’re looking for something a little more unique, check out the Egyptian Bazaar. This bazaar specializes in selling Egyptian-themed items, such as carpets, jewelry, and clothing.

No matter which bazaar you explore, you can expect to find unique items and great deals. Be sure to haggle with the vendors for the best prices, as expected in Istanbul. You can also take some time to explore the side streets and alleys of Istanbul, where you will find many hidden gems .

Whether you’re looking for souvenirs or just an experience, exploring Istanbul’s bazaars is a must-do when visiting the city.

• Teach Kids How To Haggle In Turkey

Boat Ride On The Bosphorus River

There’s nothing quite like a boat ride with kids on the Bosphorus River in Istanbul. It’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective and get some fresh air. Plus, it’s just plain fun! The Bosphorus is a strait that runs through the city of Istanbul, separating Europe from Asia. It’s about 30 miles long and 650 feet wide at its narrowest point. And it’s absolutely gorgeous, with stunning views of both sides of the city.

Istanbul is an incredibly kid-friendly city, and there are plenty of things to do and see with kids on a boat ride on the Bosporus. It’s a wonderful way to see the city and create some lasting family memories.

• Best Private & Group Bosphorus Cruises

Izmir is a fantastic, young, vibrant, and hip city with history lurking behind every corner. Located on the Aegean coastline , Izmir is also super-pretty and very Instagrammable. How about a snap of you enjoying a horse-drawn carriage ride along the waterfront? It’s possible in Izmir !

It’s a beautiful city for families to explore, whether your interests are in history, nature, or beach time. Here are a few of our favorite family-friendly activities in the city:

• Izmir Culture Park – Kültürpark:  Kültürpark is a public park located in the central district of İzmir. With an area of over 35 hectares, it is one of the largest parks in the city. The park features various amenities, including biking, walking tracks, sports courts, a picnic area, and a playground.  In addition to these recreational activities, Kültürpark also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, such as concerts and festivals.
• Kemeralti Carsisi: If you like shopping for traditional and authentic souvenirs , you must ass Kemeralti Carsisi to your list of what to do in Izmir. One of the top attractions in Izmir , this a fantastic shopping street with market stalls and a covered bazaar.
• Agora Open Air Museum: This is one of the area’s largest and most well-preserved ancient sites. Agora was the center of public life in ancient times in Izmir. It was a marketplace where people would buy and sell goods and a place where people would gather to socialize, learn, and debate. You can walk freely amongst the ruins, allowing you to soak up the history of this beautiful place at your own pace.
• Konak Pier: Konak is the seaside district of Izmir, and the Konak Pier is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Izmir. It is a long pier that extends into the Aegean Sea and offers stunning views of the cityscape and coastline. The dock is a beautiful spot to walk and grab an ice cream. The views out over the sea are gorgeous, and there are many local restaurants here where you can try some authentic cuisine , including fresh seafood. 
• Visit One Of The Waterparks:  Adaland Water Park in Kuşadası, Aqua Fantasy Water Park in Kuşadası, Yalı Castle Water Park in Gümüldür
• Where To Stay In Izmir
• Things To Do In Izmir

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Explore ephesus and its ancient ruins.

Ephesus was once one of the ancient world’s largest and most prosperous cities. Today, its well-preserved ruins are a significant tourist attraction and offer a fascinating insight into life in Roman times.

The site has plenty to see, including the impressive Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, and the Great Theater. Visitors can also explore the city’s streets, Houses of Pompeii-style, and see where some of the famous episodes from the Bible took place.

Several tours are available, which will help you and the children make the most of your visit to Ephesus . 

• How To Enjoy Ephesus With The Family

Bring Mythology To Life In Canakkale

The seaport of Canakkale is located on the Asian coast of Turkey’s Dardanelles strait, in a region rich in ancient and modern history, as well as myths and legends that have stood the test of time.

In reality, many of the sights and activities in Canakkale are linked to the stories that have made the city famous. What is now Canakkale, first occupied about 6,000 years ago during the Copper Age, has seen numerous invading armies pass through the region and been ruled by many states.

The legendary Trojan Wars and the Gallipoli Campaign, the most well-known battle between the Allied Forces and the Ottomans in World War I, both took place nearby, as did the epic love story Hero and Leander from Greek mythology.

The best activities to do here are: going on a historical tour in Gallipoli , visiting the many museums inside the city, admiring the huge castles, and paying your respects at the monuments for the martyrs of the deadly First World War. This is easily one of the greatest hidden gems in Turkey.

Bathe In Beachside Towns

Visit one of Turkey’s many beaches. Turkey has a coastline of over 8,000 kilometers, so there are plenty of options to choose from! Whether you want to relax on the sand, take a dip in the ocean, or try your hand at watersports, you’ll find the perfect day for your family adventure.

There’s nothing quite like a day spent at the beach, and Antalya is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey. With its clear turquoise waters and lovely sandy beaches, Antalya is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun.

There are plenty of beach clubs and restaurants to choose from, so you can find the perfect spot to spend your day. Plenty of water sports are on offer if you’re looking for a more active day.

• Go Rafting With The Kids In Antalya: When it comes to family-friendly activities, Antalya has plenty to offer. One of the most popular activities is rafting. Rafting is a great way to spend time with the kids and get some exercise. Several companies offer rafting tours in Antalya. The tour typically lasts two hours and includes all necessary equipment.
• Chase Antalya’s Waterfalls: There are many beautiful waterfalls in and around Antalya, many of which are open to visitors all year long. Some to visit include Kursunlu Waterfall, Manavgat Waterfall, and Duden Waterfalls.
• Visit Köprülü Canyon: This is a canyon and a national park in the Province of Antalya. It’s one of the top Antalya sightseeing places, especially among outdoorsy visitors and lovers of stunning natural scenery.
• Dinopark: Dinopark is located in Antalya and features over 80 life-size dinosaur models spread out over its enormous grounds. Visitors can also enjoy a number of rides, including a roller coaster and bumper cars.

Bodrum sits on the southwestern coast of Türkiye , lapped by the waters of the Aegean Sea. If you want to go somewhere laid back and beachy , yet you want an extra side order of glamour and sophistication, Bodrum is a good choice. 

There is plenty to see and do in and around Bodrum. You can choose to enjoy your time chilling out and doing little at all, or you can explore to your heart’s content. Here are a few things to see and do.  

• Castle Of St Peter: The commanding Castle of St Peter sits with the perfect view over Bodrum town  and visiting will give you the most amazing views over the bay.
• Museum Of Underwater Archaeology: Inside the castle, you will find the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, one of Bodrum’s absolute must-sees. Inside you’ll find all manner of artifacts related to the underwater world and the many shipwrecks that have been found off the Aegean coastline .
• Beaches, Beaches, Beaches: Just outside the main town, you will find some fantastic beaches that are ideal for kicking back and relaxing. Be sure to head to Turgutreis, Gumbet, and Bitez for some of the most idyllic spots – they all have free and private beaches. There are plenty of tourist facilities around, such as bars and restaurants.  
• Visit Greece: Bodrum is just a short ferry ride away from the gorgeous Greek Islands of Kos and Rhodes . 
• Bodrum Vs. Antalya – How To Choose
• Where To Stay In Bodrum
• Best Beaches In Bodrum

Who doesn’t love a good beach? If you’re heading to the Fethiye area of southern Turkey this coming summer, you’re in for a treat when it comes to beaches, as it is one of the best areas in Turkey for a family holiday.

Fethiye is part of  the Dalaman region of Türkiye , and it’s around 2 hours away from Marmaris  and 1 hour from Dalaman Airport.  Fethiye is a town in  itself, but it also has neighboring Ölüdeniz attached to it, which is about 20 minutes away by road, and Hisaronu, which is around the same distance.  

In the peak summer months, when temperatures soar, the beaches around this  area are packed  with people trying to cool down. However, even in the shoulder months, you can easily swim until the end of October.

• Go Hiking In Fethiye: Fethiye is a beautiful city in Turkey that offers many family-friendly activities. One of the best ways to explore the area is by going on a hike. Many hiking trails in Fethiye provide stunning views of the city and surrounding area. The Lycian Way is one of the most popular hiking trails, and it provides a variety of different routes to choose from. Several other hiking trails wind through the forests and mountains near Fethiye. No matter what trail you choose, you’re sure to have an enjoyable experience exploring the natural beauty of Turkey
• Paragliding:  Ölüdeniz is world-famous as a spot for paragliding, and older kids and teens will, without question, love soaring the skies above 
• Spend Days At The Beach:  The top beaches in Fethiye include Blue Lagoon and Belcekiz Beach. You can find more Fethiye beaches here.
• Accommodation Kids Will Love In Fethiye

Attend A Turkish Cooking Class

One of the best ways to experience the local cuisine with the family is to take a cooking class. And what better place to do that than in Turkey, where the food is delicious and varied?

Many Turkish cooking classes are available, so you can choose one that suits your interests and schedule. For example, you could take a class focused on making traditional Turkish dishes like kebabs or baklava or opt for a more hands-on experience where you learn how to make your own bread or weave a rug.

No matter what type of class you choose, you’ll be sure to have a fun and educational experience that will leave you with some new skills (and maybe a few extra pounds!).

Watch A Whirling Dervish Show In Konya

If you’re looking for a unique and memorable activity to do with your family on your next trip to Turkey , consider taking the children to Konya to see a whirling dervishes show. This ancient tradition is still practiced today and is something that both kids and adults will enjoy.

During the show, the dervishes will spin around in circles while wearing traditional robes and playing music. It’s a fascinating display of culture and history that your family will surely remember long after your trip.

The historic city of Konya is a great place to explore Turkey’s culture and history. It’s home to some of the oldest mosques in the world, as well as the Mevlana Museum and Mausoleum.

• All About The Whirling Dervishes

Delicious Turkish Dishes That Are Kid-Approved

Turkey is a land of delicious cuisine, with plenty of kid-friendly dishes to enjoy. From succulent kebabs to refreshing salads, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Here are some of our favorite Turkish dishes the whole family will love:

• Kebabs are a staple of Turkish cuisine and a favorite amongst kids. They can be made with chicken, lamb, or beef and are often served with rice or bread
• Falafel is another popular dish that’s perfect for kids. These fried balls of chickpeas are usually served with tahini sauce and can be eaten as a snack or main meal
• Pide is a type of Turkish flatbread that’s often filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. It makes for a tasty and filling meal that the whole family can enjoy
• Börek is a pastry dish made with thin layers of dough filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. It’s perfect for sharing and makes a delicious snack or light meal
• Dolma is a type of stuffed vegetable dish that’s popular in Turkey. It’s usually made with peppers, tomatoes, or zucchini and can be filled with meat, rice, or a combination of both
• Köfte are a type of spiced meatballs that are often served as part of meze platters. They’re great for kids because they can be eaten as a snack or as part of a meal
• Ayran is a refreshing yogurt drink made with water and salt that makes for the perfect summer beverage. Kids love it, and it’s also good for them too!
• Turkish Foods Your Kids Might Like

Safety Considerations For Families In Turkey

Turkey is a country with many different cultures and customs, which can be confusing for families traveling with young children. Here are some things to keep in mind to stay safe while enjoying your trip:

• When out and about, keep a close eye on your children at all times. Turkey is a bustling place, and it can be easy for little ones to get lost in the crowd
• As in any new place, be aware of your surroundings and trust your gut if something doesn’t feel right.
• While Turkey is generally a safe place , there are always risks when traveling to any new country. Be sure to have travel insurance in case of any medical emergencies

Budget Travel Tips For Families In Turkey

When traveling to Turkey with kids and families, it is important to budget carefully. Here are some tips to help you save money:

• Book your flights and family-friendly accommodations in advance: This will help you get the best deals and avoid last-minute price hikes
• Look for family-friendly hotels and resorts that offer discounts for small children
• Take advantage of free activities for kids at tourist attractions. Many museums and historic sites offer free admission for children under a certain age
• Make use of public transportation instead of renting a car. Turkey has an excellent public transportation system that can take you to all the major cities and towns
• Purchase souvenirs and gifts from local markets instead of souvenir shops. You’ll find better deals on authentic Turkish items this way

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Accommodation For Families In Turkey

There are many accommodation options for families in Turkey, from camping and caravanning to hotels and apartments.

• Camping is a popular option for families , as it is an inexpensive way to see the country and experience the great outdoors. Caravan parks can be found in most towns and cities, and there are also many private campsites
• Hotels and apartments are other popular options for families, as they offer more space and privacy than camping. There are many family-friendly hotels and apartments located in Turkey’s major cities, such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir
• For those who prefer something more luxurious , plenty of all-inclusive resorts are available along the Mediterranean coast. These resorts offer a range of activities for families and provide excellent facilities.
• Turkey is also home to many luxurious villas, which offer more space and privacy than hotels or apartments. Villas can be rented year-round in some areas, making them perfect for a long stay in the country

Family Hotels In Turkey

When looking for family hotels in Turkey, it is important to consider the type of accommodation you are looking for. Some hotels are perfect for families who want to stay in the city, such as family-friendly hotels in Istanbul and Ankara

Turkey is a renowned travel destination for families and couples alike. With its sandy beaches , clear waters, and a plethora of activities, it’s no wonder that Turkey is such a popular choice for a family getaway.

There are plenty of accommodation options to choose from when traveling to Turkey with kids and families. Family hotels in Turkey offer a range of amenities and facilities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Many family hotels boast kid-friendly pools, play areas, kids clubs, and babysitting services so that you can enjoy some adult time too.

Some places we love are:

• Aquarium Hotel, Istanbul: The Aquarium Hotel in Istanbul is one of the top hotels in Turkey that offer fun activities for kids and families . The hotel has an indoor and outdoor pool, a water park, a kids club, and a spa. The Aquarium Hotel is located in Istanbul’s Old City and is close to many attractions kids love, such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace
• Delphin BE Grand Resort Antalya: The Delphin BE Grand Resort Antalya is an all-inclusive resort in Antalya, Turkey. The resort offers a variety of activities for kids and families, including a water park , kids’ club, game room, and more. The resort also has its own private beach, where families can relax and enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea
• The Sirene Belek Hotel is one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Belek, Turkey. It offers plenty of activities for kids and families, including a water park, mini golf, and a kid’s club
• The Rixos Premium Bodrum is another great hotel for families with kids . It offers an on-site water park, kid’s club, and other fun activities

If you’re looking for a little luxury on your family holiday , plenty of upscale resorts offer all the trimmings, from five-star dining to private beach areas. No matter your budget or preferences, there’s sure to be a family hotel in Turkey that’s perfect for you.

• Best Family Hotels In Turkey – Istanbul” href=”https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/turkey-travel-guide/best-family-hotels-in-turkey/#Best_Family_Hotels_In_Turkey_-_Istanbul”>Best Family Hotels In Istanbul
• Best Family Hotels In Cappadocia
• Best Family Hotels In Bodrum
• Best Family Hotels In Antalya
• Best Family Hotels In Muğla
• Best Family Hotels In Marmaris
• Best Family Hotels In Fethiye

Turkey is a good place to visit with kids, right?

With its sun, sea, beaches, theme parks, and water parks, Turkey is an excellent place to visit with kids.

What are the benefits of Antalya, Turkey, for families?

There are plenty of attractions for kids in Antalya, but the resorts here are some of the best in the country.

Is there a theme park in Turkey?

There are several theme parks in Istanbul , including Kidzania, Legoland, Vialand, Jurassic Land, and Aqua Park Istanbul.

What is the best part of Turkey for a family holiday?

Antalya is our favorite part of Turkey for families because there are so many attractions for everyone. But Fethiye, Marmaris, Cappadocia, and Istanbul are all unique places to visit.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Turkey With Kids

Turkey is a fantastic country with a rich history and culture. It’s a great place to visit with kids and families, as there are many things to see and do. The food is also fantastic, and the people are incredibly friendly.

So, now you have lots of ideas about the best place in Turkey for a family holiday, tell us where will you go first.

I can say that i f you’re still considering a family holiday in Turkey, I highly recommend it. Your family will not be disappointed!

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Comments (2)

I can’t wait for our family to travel to Turkey! When we travel, we love to find children’s books to read before the trip.

We love traveling as a family – and Capadoccia looks amazing! When we travel, I love to get kids excited about where they’re going by reading in advance. I’m a librarian and educator – so thought your readers might like to see my picks for Turkey.

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