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The Ultimate Guide to Summer Destinations in Turkey

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2. Antalya & Side

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3. Kaş & Kalkan

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4. Fethiye & Ölüdeniz

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5. Izmir & Çesme

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6. Kuşadası

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7. Marmaris

8. Bozcaada & Gökçeada

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Home » Turkey travel guide » Best Places to Visit in Turkey During Summer

Best Places to Visit in Turkey During Summer

What you read in this article:

If you are planning a vacation this summer, here are some of the best places to see. You’ll want to choose a city for your holiday – or a small town – with a great beach or a beautiful lake. You may be able to combine the two by choosing an area with several unique climates. If so, you’ll probably end up visiting a few different places.

Enjoy the beauties of the capital, Ankara

If you’re looking for a cool place to spend your summer vacation, look no further than the cosmopolitan capital of Ankara, Turkey. Located in central Anatolia, this city is the country’s cultural center, hosting several national theater companies, the State Opera and Ballet, and the Presidential Symphony Orchestra.

Ankara is a busy tourist city in the summer, but temperatures are much more bearable during the fall and spring seasons. In September, temperatures are typically around twenty degrees Celsius, and in November, they can drop to as low as twelve degrees. You’ll still have plenty of sunshine to enjoy while you’re here, but you’ll avoid the intense heat and crowds during the winter months.

Read More: All you need to know about Gulhane Park in Istanbul

Don’t miss the Buyuk Ankara Festival for a family day out, usually in July. Then, head to the country’s most important holiday of the year: Victory Day, which is celebrated across Turkey on August 30th. Victory Day is a fantastic time to visit Ankara, as it features a grand parade of Turkish Soldiers and Air Force demonstration flights.

Why Cappadocia is a good destination for summer?

The weather in Cappadocia during summer is hot and humid, with temperatures reaching the mid-thirties. You can take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, but you should plan to wear several layers, even if the weather is sunny. The best time to visit Cappadocia is between June and September, but be aware that you may not be able to take a hot air balloon flight in November due to freezing winds.

While spring is the wettest time to visit Cappadocia, temperatures remain comfortable by the end of April. This is a great time to take a hot air balloon flight, but you should avoid the months of July and August when temperatures can reach 40degC.

Read More: Beautiful villages near Istanbul (Best villages around Istanbul)

Be aware, though, that not all accommodations will have air conditioning. Regardless of your preferred time of year, you can still enjoy the sights and sounds of Cappadocia.

Bodrum with wonderful beaches

While visiting Bodrum, you should relax on the town’s many beautiful beaches. The picturesque Bardakci beach is a popular choice, and it is close to the city center. Whether you’re looking to unwind or relax after an exhausting day of sightseeing, the city has something for you.

If you love beaches, you should spend time on Bardakci beach, which is one of the best beaches in Bodrum. The sandy white sands here are a welcome respite after a day of sightseeing.

Besides Bodrum’s beach, you can also visit its historical center, surrounded by pine-clad hills. The city is home to a Roman amphitheater, which dates back to the 4th Century BC. It is a stunning sight and is the location for several concerts and festivals.

In addition to the ancient ruins, Bodrum also has a vibrant nightlife scene. There are also many opportunities to buy local crafts, such as Turkish carpets, which local artisans make. While you are in Bodrum, you should try the local seafood dishes and local favorites. The town is also known for its olive oil, produced in a 100-year-old factory in the old town.

Read More: All About Emirgan tulip gardens (Emirgan Park) in Istanbul

Izmir, the best city for events and festivals in summer

Summer in Izmir means a multitude of activities. The city hosts various festivals and events, ranging from classical music festivals to international jazz festivals. There is also a wide range of festivals to experience throughout the year, including the International Izmir Jazz Festival, which takes place every March.

The festival features performances from international musicians as well as local artists. If you’re looking for other festivals in Izmir, consider attending the Cherry Festival, the Peninsular Games, and the International Children and Youth Theater Festival.

In July and August, Izmir’s beaches are crowded with tourists, and there are many cultural events to enjoy. Summer in Izmir is often quite hot, with temperatures ranging from 29 to 33degC on average.

The city is also fairly humid, but there’s little chance of rain during the summer. It’s the perfect time to visit Turkey! You’ll enjoy the beaches and the events the city offers and will be glad you did.

Read More: The Best Place to Visit in Istanbul with Family

Antalya, all u want from nature

Suppose you’re looking for a summer vacation in an exotic city. In that case, there are many options to choose from in Antalya. The city is also home to many beautiful beaches, including the seven-kilometer-long Konyaalti Beach.

If you’re into water sports, you’ll be able to enjoy the warm, crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. Other attractions in Antalya include Hadrian’s Gate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and several ancient sites.

Fethiye is another famous beach town in the area, with its natural harbor and surrounding hills. You can take a boat trip to a waterfall or climb a mountain with cable cars.

The town also has a historical past and is an excellent choice for families with children. While you’re in the region, don’t miss a trip to the nearby ancient sites such as the Amintas Rock Tombs and Kadyanda Ancient City.

Read More: A guideline for Turkey solo travel (Guidance for Independent travel to turkey)

Olympos is located 77km north of Demre. The road to Olympos winds through a high mountain pass, but the scenic drive is worth it. A highlight of Olympos is Kadir’s Tree Houses, built by the founder Kadir Kaya over 30 years ago. You’ll be amazed at the natural beauty and awe-inspiring landscape surrounding Olympos.

Olympos is a sister town of Cirali and Adrasan and is known for its natural beauty. It’s also next to one of the best day walks along the Lycian Way. While the ruins are impressive and easily accessible, the town is noisy in the summer and lacks reasonable accommodations.

Read More: Best time to visit Trabzon

Pamukkale and a pleasant weather

In Turkey, summer is a very hot season, so if you’re looking for a way to escape the heat, consider visiting Pamukkale during spring or autumn. During these months, temperatures range from 18 to 25 degrees Celsius during the day and seven to ten degrees Celsius at night. Spring and autumn are also quieter seasons in Pamukkale, and the weather is still pleasant.

Pamukkale is famous for its thermal health. Phrygians discovered the site thousands of years ago. The white limestone travertines and water are shaped by calcium-rich hot springs. Throughout the year, the water is around thirty-six degrees Celsius.

This temperature is believed to help heal skin and rheumatism. The thermal pools are even comfortable during winter, so you’ll never feel too cold or wet.

Read More: The Best Time to Travel to Istanbul

If you want to experience the sun and the sand, the city of Dalyan in Turkey is a wonderful choice. This southern coastal town offers activities that will excite any visitor. Water sports enthusiasts will love the opportunity to scuba dive, go white-water rafting, hike, mountain bike, and take a boat trip on the coastline.

While there, you can see protected loggerhead turtles nesting on the area’s beaches. Afterward, enjoy a swim in the lake, or indulge in traditional Turkish food and drink.

Visiting Ephesus in Turkey during the summer means that the weather is pleasant and rainy-free. However, there are still plenty of reasons why you should not visit Ephesus during winter. While October and April are rainy months, midday temperatures can climb as high as 43 degrees Fahrenheit in July.

One of the most important aspects of life in ancient Ephesus is the Grand Theater. Here, people gathered for religious ceremonies and fights. It was a meeting place for the city. The semi-circular-shaped audience seating is comfortable for as many as 24,000 people.

Read More: Best cities to visit in Turkey

Another interesting part of Ephesus’ history is the Temple of Artemis, one of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

And the Last Word

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Turkey during the summer, there are many options to consider. Visiting Turkey during the summer can give you a chance to enjoy the sunshine and explore the country’s cultural diversity. While summer is the most popular time to visit Turkey, there are many other lovely seasons to visit.

 In the spring and fall, temperatures are still pleasant enough to swim, and the big cities generally have a vibrant calendar of events. During this time of year, Turkey’s crowds and holidaymakers tend to be much less crowded, with more comfortable temperatures after the school holidays have ended.

Read More: Most popular Turkish foods that you should try in Turkey

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All you need to know about Turkey in the summer

Exploring Turkey in the summer means bright sunny weather, beaches, warm ocean waters, and delicious cold treats.

Most visitors head to the seaside resorts along the Aegean and Mediterranean coastlines in the summer months . Here you can soak in the sunshine and cool off in the water for the perfect beach getaway. Alternatively, take advantage of the lack of tourists in the bigger cities and see some of Turkey’s city attractions without the crowds.

Turkey in the summer: Weather

Summer in Turkey runs from June through to September  and it gets hot. The average temperature is usually around 30°C during the day, and it’s generally dry without much rain. Turkey has different climate zones throughout the country, but most regions share a hot, dry climate during the summer.

Turkey in the summer: Beaches

With hot sunny weather and little chance of rain, summer is the best time to visit Turkey’s beautiful beaches. With plenty of offerings along the Aegean and Mediterranean coastlines, it’s easy to find options to suit your budget and plans.

However, remember that the summer months are the busiest time of year at these beaches, so make sure to book your accommodation in advance and keep an eye out for tickets to the festivals and live performances that are common along the seaside.

Bodrum is a popular seaside destination with a chill, relaxed vibe during the day and lively nightlife. The beaches here are beautiful and clean, with stunning views of the Aegean Sea. When you want to take a break from the busy beaches, consider heading to Bodrum Castle, a medieval fortress dating back to the 4th century BCE.

Antalya’s beaches are beautiful (though crowded) in the summertime when its turquoise water is warmest. Once a thriving ancient Roman city, Antalya is now one of Turkey’s most popular seaside resort towns, with plenty of its history preserved for visitors to experience. You’ll also find various music and cultural festivals during the summer months, such as the annual Flower Festival that starts in May and the Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival.

Kas, Antalya

Kas is a beautiful holiday centre in the west of Antalya, known for its clear, bright blue sea. The area is a hotspot for divers, and you’ll have no trouble finding diving tours during the warmer months. Away from the beach, the area has fascinating historic buildings and a lively bazaar market held every Friday. Kas is also home to Kaputas Beach, one of the most well-known beaches in Turkey, with clear water and fine golden sand.

Istanbul in summer

Turkey’s hot climate tends to drive crowds away from the major cities during the warmest months of the year, with tourists heading to the seaside instead. However, if you can handle the hotter temperatures comfortably, you can take advantage of shorter queues to I stanbul’s top attractions and make the most of cheaper prices . Head to the Hagia Sophia Mosque or the Topkapi Palace for some indoor attractions out of the sun, or take a ferry tour on the waters of the Bosphorus Strait.

The Prince’s Islands

The Prince’s Islands are an archipelago of nine islands you can easily reach from Istanbul by boat. There’s plenty to see and do there. First, head to the top of Buyukada, the largest island, where Hagia Yorgi Church (which dates back to the 6th century) provides incredible panoramic views. Then, make your way to Dil Burnu National Park’s pine forests. Once you’ve had your fill of sightseeing, relax at one of the islands’ beaches and take a dip in the waters of the Sea of Marmara.

Izmir in summer

Izmir, one of Turkey’s larger cities, like Istanbul, tends to be quieter during the hottest months of the year. So explore the city’s incredible ancient monuments without the crowds (just don’t forget to drink plenty of water!). Izmir Agora is the ruins of a Roman-Greek marketplace that is now a simple thoroughfare for Izmir’s modern-day residents. On the other hand, the modern marketplace of Kemeralti Market is a wonderful bazaar, and you’ll find the vendors are very friendly and happy to chat with tourists.

Çeşme

Çeşme is a seaside resort town just west of Izmir and is one of the most popular destinations near the city during the summer months. It has beautiful white sand beaches, thermal springs, and warm ocean waters. Once you’ve had your fill soaking up the sun and cooling off in the water, you can check out Çeşme Castle, which overlooks the harbour and houses the Çeşme Archaeology Museum, which displays artefacts from local excavations.

Hierapolis-Pamukkale

Hierapolis and Pamukkale are two ancient Greek-Roman spa towns known for their natural hot springs and thermal waters full of minerals. It’s worth the trip, even just to look at the pale blue pools layered like steps along a hillside. You can also check out the ancient ruins in the towns, including a remarkably well-preserved theatre and a necropolis. There’s also the Antique Pool, a large pool in the hot springs known as ‘Cleopatra’s Pool’ due to the legend that it was a gift from Marc Anthony to Cleopatra.

The Black Sea Highlands

If you’re looking to get away from the hottest temperatures of Turkey’s summer, consider heading to the highlands of the Black Sea mountains. This area has a generally cooler climate than the beaches and cities in Turkey. Steep coastlines, grassy hills and flowing rivers create picturesque scenery dotted with small towns and houses. You’ll find plenty of variety in the region, from the dense forests of the northern slopes to the unwooded plateaus of the southern side.

Turkey in summer: Food and drink

When visiting Turkey, be sure to try the local food and drink on offer throughout the country. You’ll find unique, refreshing drinks at restaurants and unusual but delicious icy treats from street vendors that are perfect for summer.

Ayran is a unique beverage beloved by Turks in summer whose history dates back thousands of years. They make it by blending water, yoghurt and salt. While that might sound like an odd combination before you try it, you’ll almost certainly find it refreshing after a long day in the Turkish sun. This drink is so ubiquitous during Turkish summer that you can find it at fast-food chains throughout the country.

When you need to cool off in Turkey, the best thing to try is the Turkish ice cream Dondurma. You’ll quickly discover that Dondurma isn’t quite like the ice cream you’re used to, with the inclusion of salep (a particular kind of flour) and mastic (a type of resin), creating a thick, chewy texture that doesn’t melt like other ice creams.

Look out for the icy cold treat at shops and vendor carts out on the streets. Whether you try familiar flavours like vanilla or chocolate or Turkish specialities like cherry or mulberry, don’t skip the opportunity to try Dondurma during your summer trip to Turkey.

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Turkey? Check out the best beaches in Turkey and these tips for family holidays in Turkey.

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Home Blogs Top Summer Destinations in Turkey: Explore the Best Spots!

Top Summer Destinations in Turkey: Explore the Best Spots!

Turkey, a country where two continents meet, offers an array of breathtaking destinations perfect for a summer getaway. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun on pristine beaches, explore ancient ruins, or enjoy vibrant city life, Turkey has something for everyone. In this guide, we'll explore the best places to visit in Turkey during the summer months, each promising an unforgettable experience.

Istanbul: A City That Never Sleeps

Istanbul isn't just a city; it's a vibrant collage of cultures, history, and gastronomy. The city comes to life during summer festivals and nightlife. The Bosporus shines under the golden sun, inviting tourists to take scenic cruises between the continents of Asia and Europe. Explore the Grand Bazaar for unique souvenirs or relax in one of the many seaside restaurants that offer fresh seafood, accompanied by the view of the sunset over the silhouette of the city.

Food in Istanbul:

• Enjoy the rich flavours of kebabs and mezes in traditional restaurants.
• Taste the world-famous Turkish delight and baklava in local sweets shops.
• Sample street food like simit and balık-ekmek (fish sandwich).

Activities to do:

• Take a Bosphorus cruise to enjoy the city from the water.
• Visit historic sites like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.
• Explore vibrant neighbourhoods such as Galata and Taksim.

Other Highlights:

• Shopping in the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar.
• Nightlife in Kadıköy with its many bars and music venues.

Cappadocia: The Fairy Tale Landscape

Imagine floating in a hot air balloon as the sun rises, revealing a landscape dotted with fairy chimneys and ancient cave houses. Cappadocia offers this magical experience, making it an absolute must for anyone seeking an unforgettable trip. The soft volcanic rock has been sculpted over millennia into a surreal, alien and beautiful landscape.

Food in Cappadocia:

• Savour traditional dishes cooked in pottery (Testi Kebab).
• Try local wines, which have been produced in this region for thousands of years.
• Experience a Turkish breakfast with cheeses, olives, and fresh bread.
• Hot air balloon rides at sunrise for breathtaking views of the landscapes.
• Hiking through valleys like Ihlara and Rose Valley.
• Visit underground cities and ancient cave churches.
• Stay in a cave hotel uniquely carved into the rock.
• Enjoy the panoramic views from Uçhisar Castle.

Antalya: The Turquoise Coast

Antalya is the jewel of the Turkish Riviera. With its expansive beaches like Konyaaltı and Lara, luxury resorts, and historic sites, including the Roman-era Hadrian’s Gate, Antalya blends luxury with culture. The nearby Duden Waterfalls are a cool retreat from the summer heat, offering a spectacular backdrop for a picnic or a photo.

Food in Antalya:

• Fresh seafood right from the Mediterranean.
• Traditional Turkish ice cream is known as dondurma.
• Local delicacies like pide and lahmacun.
• Sunbathing and swimming on beaches like Konyaaltı and Lara.
• Exploring the ruins of Perge and Aspendos.
• Visiting Duden Waterfalls.
• Shopping in local markets and modern malls.
• Enjoying the vibrant nightlife along the marina.

Izmir: The Pearl of the Aegean

With its rich heritage and modern charm, Izmir is often referred to as the 'Pearl of the Aegean'. This vibrant city is known for its bustling bazaars, historical sites like the Agora, and its close proximity to ancient cities such as Ephesus and Pergamon. Don't miss the chance to taste some of the Aegean's finest culinary delights, especially the seafood and olive oil-based dishes.

Food in Izmir:

• Indulge in Aegean cuisine with olive oil-based dishes and fresh herbs.
• Taste Çeşme kumru, a local sandwich specialty.
• Enjoy fresh seafood along the coast.
• Stroll along Kordon, the seaside promenade, for sunset views.
• Visit ancient cities like Ephesus and Smyrna.
• Explore the bustling Kemeraltı Market.
• Take a ferry ride to nearby Greek islands.
• Visit contemporary art galleries and museums.

Bodrum: Where the Aegean Meets the Mediterranean

Bodrum is a favourite among both locals and tourists for its vibrant nightlife, luxurious yachts, and the historic Bodrum Castle. The town’s streets are lined with bougainvillea-covered houses, and its beaches are perfect for a day under the sun. By night, Bodrum transforms into a lively hub with clubs and bars.

Food in Bodrum:

• Sample mezze platters with a variety of small dishes.
• Fresh fish and rakı, the anise-flavoured spirit.
• Local mandarin oranges and olive oil products.
• See the Museum of Underwater Archaeology and Bodrum Castle.
• Enjoy yachting and other water sports.
• Explore the ancient theatre and Myndos Gate.
• Nightlife with clubs and bars open till dawn.
• Shopping for handmade sandals and textiles.

Marmaris: The Resort Hub

Known for its clear waters and lively nightlife, Marmaris is a hub for sailors and beach-goers. The town is surrounded by mountains, which provide a stunning contrast to the clear blue waters of the sea. Visit the Marmaris Castle for a glimpse into the town’s past, or enjoy water sports at one of the many beaches.

Food in Marmaris:

• Enjoy a Turkish mixed grill by the beach.
• Sample the local pine honey, a regional speciality.
• Try traditional Turkish pastries like börek.
• Water sports like jet skiing and parasailing.
• Day trips to Rhodes island from Marmaris port.
• Explore the Marmaris National Park.
• The vibrant bazaar for shopping.
• Nightly entertainment in bars and clubs.

Fethiye: Nature and Adventure

Fethiye is known for its natural harbour, blue waters, and ancient ruins. Paragliding from the heights of Babadağ Mountain offers breathtaking views of the turquoise coast below. The deserted village of Kayaköy offers a haunting yet intriguing exploration opportunity.

Food in Fethiye:

• Fish markets where you can choose seafood to be cooked on the spot.
• Turkish pancakes called gözleme are made fresh in front of you.
• Traditional Turkish sweets like lokum (Turkish delight).
• Paragliding from Babadağ mountain.
• Boat trips to the beautiful Butterfly Valley.
• Exploring the Lycian rock tombs in the cliffs above the town.
• Saklıkent Gorge for a cool escape and adventure walking.
• The ghost village of Kayaköy for historical exploration.

Kusadasi: A Cruise Ship Favorite

Kusadasi is a popular cruise ship port close to Ephesus, making it a perfect spot for history buffs. The town itself offers beautiful beaches like Ladies Beach, vibrant nightlife, and delicious dining options.

Food in Kusadasi:

• Sample seafood and Aegean specialities in seafront restaurants.
• Try local figs and olives, key products of the region.
• Savour Turkish coffee in old cafes with sea views.

Activities:

• Take a tour of one of the best-preserved Roman cities, Ephesus.
• Enjoy sunbathing and swimming at Ladies Beach.
• Explore the local markets for leather goods and crafts.
• The vibrant nightlife along the seaside.
• Daily boat trips to nearby islands and bays.

Bursa: The Green City

Nestled at the base of Mount Uludağ, Bursa is known as 'The Green City' due to its many parks and gardens. In summer, it serves as a gateway to Uludağ National Park, popular for hiking and picnics. The city's thermal baths, rich Ottoman architecture, and the famous Iskender kebab are highlights.

Food in Bursa:

• Iskender kebab, one of Turkey’s most famous dishes, originated here.
• Sample chestnut candy, a local delicacy.
• Traditional Turkish tea and pastries in a historic tea garden.
• Visit the Grand Mosque and the Silk Bazaar.
• Enjoy the thermal baths, which are known for their healing properties.
• The cable car ride to Mount Uludağ for hiking or skiing in winter.
• The historic Ottoman village of Cumalıkızık.
• The Green Tomb, with its stunning tile work.

Ankara: The Heart of Anatolia

As the capital, Ankara may not boast the coastal beauty of other Turkish cities, but it holds its charm with its museums, parks, and vibrant cultural scene. Visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations for a deep dive into Turkey’s history, or enjoy a leisurely evening at one of the city’s upscale restaurants.

Food in Ankara:

• Try Ankara's famous goat cheese.
• Enjoy traditional dishes like çiğ köfte and kokoreç.
• Taste Ankara’s unique pears and other fresh fruits.
• Explore the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations.
• Visit Atatürk’s Mausoleum, an important historical site.
• Stroll through the botanical gardens and parks.
• The vibrant shopping districts and local markets.
• Cultural events and concerts, especially in the summer months.

Turkey's summer destinations perfectly blend sun, sea, history, and culture. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or just a new experience, Turkey's diverse landscapes and warm hospitality will ensure your summer vacation is unforgettable.

What is the best time to visit Turkey in summer?

The best time to visit Turkey in summer is from mid-June to early September when the weather is warm and sunny.

Are these locations family-friendly?

Yes, all these locations offer activities and attractions suitable for families of all ages.

What should I pack for a summer trip to Turkey?

Lightweight clothing, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, and a swimsuit are essentials.

How do I get around in Turkey?

Turkey has a well-connected public transport system that includes buses, trains, and domestic flights. Renting a car is also a popular option for more flexibility.

Is it safe to travel to Turkey?

Turkey is generally safe for tourists, but it's always advisable to follow standard travel safety precautions.

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25 Beautiful Places in Turkey for Your Travel Itinerary (Must-sees & Hidden Gems)

A land of immense natural beauty and diverse cultures underpinned by eons of history, Turkey (Türkiye) is a country like no other.

Here are 25 jaw-droppingly beautiful destinations (including 10 hidden gems!) you can’t overlook when planning your trip, from hot springs to beach resorts, coastal towns to ancient cities hewn from rock, palaces, monasteries, sparkling lakes, sacred mountains, and much, much more!

In travellers’ terms, Turkey is in a league of its own. This is the place where East meets West; where Europe and Asia collide and produce a transcontinental culture clash. Amazing food, diverse traditions, religions and histories – these are the things that make Turkey such an unforgettable travel destination.

Although Turkey is known for its beautiful beaches and hot air balloon-filled skies, it’s so much more than that. Once the playground of great figures such as Cleopatra, Caesar and Alexander the Great, Turkey’s historical significance is proudly displayed in the palaces, mosques, monasteries and countless archaeological sites that dot the vast landscape. There are no fewer than 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Turkey plus 41 national parks where unforgettable valleys, lakes and mountains lay in wait.

Fragrant bazaars and stunning views at every corner, from the narrow streets of Istanbul – one of the world’s great cities – to Turkey’s small towns and villages, the urban landscape is every bit as enigmatic.

To help you narrow down your wish list, I’ve rounded up the most beautiful places in Turkey to visit.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

When is the best time to visit Turkey?

Summer is peak tourist season in Turkey, when prices go up – along with the temperatures – and popular destinations become overcrowded, especially the bigger cities such as Istanbul and towns along the Turquoise Coast.

A better time to visit Turkey is during spring or fall shoulder season . Winter is a great time to plan an Istanbul city break , just note that the east of Turkey and the mountainous regions experience very cold winters. See a list of the best places to visit in Turkey in winter .

How to get around Turkey

One thing to know before you visit Turkey is that this country is big! Most travellers fly into Istanbul, which is indeed a good place to start your itinerary. It may be necessary to take a domestic flight or two to travel onwards to central or eastern Turkey. The country’s railway network can also come in handy: There are regular trains from Istanbul to Ankara and Kars.

Once the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars Railway launches, this will make it possible to travel into Eastern Turkey overland from the South Caucasus.

If you want to visit all of these diverse and beautiful destinations, renting a car for a Turkey road trip is the best option. I recommend using Local Rent .

25 of the most beautiful places in Turkey to add to your itinerary

From the domes of the Blue Mosque to the cobalt waters of the Black Sea, the bustling city of Istanbul and the enigmatic Hagia Sophia to the hidden secrets of Turkey’s underground cities and historic sites, from popular tourist attractions to hidden gems , here are the most gorgeous places to visit in Turkey!

1. Istanbul: The most beautiful city in Turkey

A melting pot of cultures in the truest sense of the term, Istanbul has to be one of the most beautiful cities in Turkey. It’s a transcontinental city, meaning you can literally travel between Europe and Asia in a matter of minutes – in fact, it’s as easy as crossing a bridge.

Istanbul’s skyline is dotted not only with the spires and domes of mosques, but also with medieval European architecture. This is because the city was the capital of four major empires throughout the ages, including the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, the Latin Empire and the Ottoman Empire.

But that’s not all. Istanbul is known for its delicious food, cafes that serve up Turkish coffee, traditional baths (hammams), Whirling Dervish ceremonies , vibrant nightlife and unique shopping experiences, which include the biggest covered Bazaar in the country: The one and only Grand Bazaar.

There are countless famous landmarks to see in Istanbul, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Galata Tower , Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, and many more. And then there are Istanbul’s hidden corners, including the gorgeous Arnavutkoy neighbourhood , with its Ottoman-era mansion houses.

Get there: Fly into Istanbul Airport. Where to stay: Ayramin Hotel Taksim, boutique hotel 200m from Istiklal Street. Search rooms here .

2. Pamukkale & Hierapolis

The mineral spring waters that have cascaded down this hillside for thousands of years have created an extraordinary sight. Located in Turkey’s Büyük Menderes Valley, the 17 tiered pools of Pamukkale – which means ‘cotton castle’ – make up the most beautiful thermal spring you’ll ever see. You can find the stacked white Travertine terraces overlooking the city of Denizli. 

Back in the day, Pamukkale was one of the most popular thermal pools in Turkey. It was a spa, first used in the 2nd century BC and famous for its healing properties. Today, the perfectly blue water that fills these white limestone bowls still stays at a comfortable 34 degrees Celsius.

No day trip to Pamukkale is complete without a stop in Hierapolis, one of the first thermal spa resorts in the world. This spa city was also founded at the end of the 2nd century and is home to the famous Antique Pool, also known as the ‘Cleopatra Pool’.

Legend has it that the famous Cleopatra herself often bathed in these warm waters, gifted to her by Mark Antony on the occasion of their wedding. The pool itself was once covered by the Roman temple of Apollo, but now the columns lie dormant in the water, adding even more charm to this unique bathing experience.

Get there: 1-hour flight or overnight coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Hotel Sahin, simple rooms 20m from the Pamukkale travertines. Search rooms here .

3. Ancient Ephesus

Did you know Ephesus is considered one of the great outdoor museums of Turkey? In ancient times, Ephesus was a port city and was considered to be one of the most important Greek outposts and trading centres in the entire Mediterranean region. Throughout history, many different forces conquered the city. It even played a role in spreading Christianity.

Today Ephesus is one of the largest and most celebrated Roman archaeological sites in the eastern Mediterranean and remains a popular Christian pilgrimage destination. In 2015, the ancient town was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Other nearby famous landmarks include the House of the Virgin Mary on Mount Nightingale and the Ruins of the Temple of Artemis, which is one of the Wonders of the Ancient World.

Get there: 1 hour by road from Izmir or 7 hours by coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Eliada Hotel (Kusadasi). Search rooms here .

4. Cappadocia

If you have an Instagram account, then you’ve probably already seen the iconic photos of hot air balloons soaring over unique landforms in Cappadocia.

Located just outside the town of Goreme in the south-centre of Turkey, Cappadocia is known for its otherworldly, cone-like rock formations. As well as the ‘fairy chimneys’, the landscape is dotted with magnificent rock-cut monasteries including Selime Monastery, a popular sunset spot.

Every morning, 100-150 hot air balloons float over Goreme to create one of the most beautiful scenes in Turkey. But don’t be fooled, hot air ballooning is not the only thing you can do in Cappadocia . This area is known for its outdoor activities, including hiking. Popular sunrise trails can be found in Love Valley, Pigeon Valley and Rose Valley.

Get there: 1.25-hour flight or overnight coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Sofa Hotel (Avanos), one of the area’s best cave hotels. Search rooms here . Recommended reading: Learn more about the famous hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia and other things to do in Goreme here .

5. Butterfly Valley

Only accessible by boat, or via a very difficult trek down from Faralya village, Butterfly Valley is a real hidden gem. If you manage to get here, you’ll find its one of the best off-the-beaten-path experiences in Turkey.

The valley takes its name from the roughly 100 species of butterflies found in the area, including the endemic orange, black and white Jersey Tiger. The Turkish Government declared the 86,000sqm valley a preservation area in 1987 to protect the butterflies and the local flora.

With lush greenery, waterfalls and a sandy cove, this whole area is perfect for hiking. Those that make their way to the water’s edge are often looking to slow down and connect with nature. On the shoreline you’ll find a campsite with a beach bar that serves beers and grilled fish.

Get there: 1 hour by road from Fethiye.

6. Bodrum: One of the most beautiful places in Turkey

Often called the ‘St. Tropez of Turkey’, this beautiful resort town is located on a peninsula enveloped by shimmering sapphire and turquoise waters. Bodrum is most famous for its array of sandy beaches – more than 60 in total.

With a unique mix of archaeological sites, attractions, nightlife and culture, Bodrum is an alluring destination for travellers of all types, not just sun-seekers. It also happens to be surprisingly affordable if you’re savvy about where to stay.

If you’re a history buff, then one of the highlights of the city is the waterfront-located Bodrum Castle. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only visually beautiful but also packs a historical punch. Inside the castle you will find the Underwater Archeology Museum, which features a variety of artefacts unearthed from the seabed. Another highlight is the Mausoleum of Mausolus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Get there: 1-hour flight or overnight coast from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Ena Boutique Hotel, overlooking Bodrum Castle. Search rooms here .

7. Mount Ararat

Mythical Mount Ararat is actually two separate peaks, both of which are dormant volcanoes. Their summits are snow-capped throughout the year. The thing that makes Ararat so famous is that it’s believed to be the mountain on which Noah and his ark landed during the great flood.

If you ‘re looking to do some trekking , climbing Mount Ararat doesn’t require much technical skill as most of the path is quite easy. The biggest challenge, however, is the altitude, as it is over 5,000m high. The trek takes around 8-9 hours.

Get there: 3 hours by road from Kars. Where to stay: Tehran Boutique Hotel (Dogubayazit). Search rooms here .

8. Kas: The prettiest village in Turkey

Another place where you can escape the hustle and bustle, the old fishing village of Kas is one of the most beautiful places in Turkey. This seaside town offers a cool combination of ancient history that traces back to the Lycian kingdom plus modern leisure activities that you can enjoy around its twin harbours.

One of the more interesting sites in Kas is the Lycian Rock Tombs (Likya Kaya Mezarlari), which mirror similar tombs found in other parts of Turkey. According to Atlas Obscura , the Lycians believed their dead were carried to the afterlife by magic winged creatures, thus they placed them in geographically high places such as the cliffside. Some of these tombs can be seen just above the Old Town in Kas, including the King’s Tomb, which is located at the top of the bazaar street in the heart of the old town.

Kas is also known for its gorgeous whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets that lead down to white-sand beaches.

Quick tip: Be sure to visit Kaputaş Beach. If you’re into exploring the underwater world, then head to the island of Kekova.

Get there: 1.25-hour flight or overnight coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Luna Kas, beachfront hotel with a pool. Search rooms here .

9. The Blue Lagoon (Oludeniz)

Oludeniz is known all around the world as Turkey’s Blue Lagoon because of its perfectly aquamarine waters. The natural cove is formed by a long peninsula that curves around the Mediterranean coastline, creating a giant swimming hole reminiscent of Croatia’s Adriatic coast .

One of the most popular activities at the Blue Lagoon is obviously to pull up a beach chair and enjoy the sun in between fresh dips in the ocean’s calm waters. If you’re an active traveller, then this beach is one of Turkey’s best spots for paragliding due to the amazing views of the lagoon and surrounding cove.

The Lycian Way, Turkey’s famous long-distance hike, passes through this area.

Get there: 20 minutes by road from Fethiye. Where to stay: Harbour Suites (Fethiye). Search rooms here .

10. Koprulu Canyon

Koprulu Canyon is both a canyon and a national park in the province of Antalya. It’s also Turkey’s most popular water sports area.

The canyon trails for 14km along the Koprulu river , its rock walls towering to a maximum height of 400m. The surrounding park is home to a rich diversity of flora including pine, fir, and oak trees, and even wild olives. It also hosts the largest cypress forest in Asia Minor.

Highlights include whitewater rafting on the river Oprucay, visiting archaeological sites and historic Roman bridges nestled in the park, hiking and even camping.

Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Antalya.

Ankara might not be Turkey’s most famous city, but it is the nation’s capital. A mecca for Turkish food and a centre for the performing arts, music and dance, Ankara is a dream destination for culture-focused travellers who want to sink their teeth into Turkish traditions.

Kemal Ataturk, the first president of Turkey who was born in Thessaloniki , declared Ankara the capital in 1923. His mausoleum, Anitkabir, sits prominently above the city centre as a hilltop tribute to his role in shaping modern Turkey.

Don’t miss the world-class Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which documents the region’s preclassical history in stunning detail. The Citadel (Kale) neighbourhood is the most charming part of town for a wander, with dozens of cafes, craft workshops and boutiques nestled inside quaint red-roofed houses.

Get there: 1.25-hour flight or overnight coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Divan Cukurhan, one of Turkey’s finest boutique hotels. Search rooms here .

12. Lake Van

One of Turkey’s largest lakes, Lake Van, is located in the eastern part of the country close to the cities of Erzurum and Kars. Formed by tectonic movements, the water is naturally high in saline. In the 11th century, it formed a land border between the East Roman Empire and the Turko-Persian Seljuk Empire.

The city of Van on the lake’s eastern edge is a natural jumping-off point for enjoying this sublime landscape. Nearby, the abandoned 15th century Ktuts monastery sits on a tiny island, creating one of the area’s most striking scenes. The Armenian Apostolic edifice sits on Akdamar Island just off the coast and can be accessed by ferry for an up-close look.

For the perfect sunset spot, head to Van Fortress. Find more exciting things to do in Van here .

Get there: 4 hours by road from Kars. Where to stay: RÖNESANS LİFE HOTEL (Van). Search rooms here .

13. Trabzon & the Black Sea Coast

Though not as famous as the Turquoise Coast, Turkey’s Black Sea Coast is another popular tourist destination that comes alive in the warmer months. As well as white sand beaches, you’ll find dramatic cliffs and panoramic views.

The city of Trabzon is a good base for exploring the countless small seaside resort towns that run up and down the seashore. Breathtaking mountain peaks rise us behind the water, framing the beaches beautifully. This is Turkey’s tea tourism capital, so you simply must sample the local leaves while you’re in town!

There are plenty of treasures to be found in the hills as well, including Soumela Monastery (AKA Sumela Monastery) and Uzungol, a picturesque lakeside village at the edge of the Kackar Mountains.

Get there: 1.5-hour flight or overnight coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Radisson Blu Hotel Trabzon. Search rooms here .

14. Gaziantep

If you are a foodie, then this one’s for you! Gaziantep is one of the oldest settlements in the region, with roots that go back more than 10,000 years. This is a city where ancient history meets culinary culture .

If you need proof: Gaziantep was added to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a city of gastronomy in 2015. Between the fresh produce, wonderful desserts, delicious sauces and blends of flavours, there are more than 400 local specialties to try in Gaziantep – so what will you try first?

Get there: 1.5-hour flight or overnight coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Anadolu Evleri, historic hotel in the centre. Search rooms here .

15. Antalya

Antalya, one of the most beautiful cities in Turkey, is also the hub of the Turkish Riviera and is the largest settlement on the country’s Mediterranean coast.

This is an urban metropolis much like Istanbul but with the kind of laid-back charm only a city with world-renowned sandy beaches can offer. A beautiful history lies beneath the surface: Antalya is dotted with mosques, churches, and a Turkish bath from ancient times designed in the Greco-Turkish style.

Be sure to set aside plenty of time for visiting Kaleiçi, the city’s historic old town. Before Antalya was one of Turkey’s top resort destinations, it was the ancient city of Attalia. The old town has structures dating back from the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, Ottoman and even modern Turkish republican eras. It is the perfect mix of old and new and should not be missed – it ‘s also incredibly walkable as it falls within an area of one square kilometre.

Get there: Fly into Antalya Airport (1.25-hour flight from Istanbul) or overnight coach. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Sibel Pension, traditional guesthouse with panoramic sea views. Search rooms here .

Top 10 hidden gems in Turkey

16. ishak pasha palace: a hidden gem in turkey.

One of Turkey’s most striking but lesser-visited historical sites, the Ishak Pasha Palace is located in the country’s far east, close to the borders of Iran and Armenia . Commissioned in 1784 by the Kurdish Sanjak Chief Ishak Pasha, it’s a rare example of an Ottoman-period palace that has stood the test of time.

The vast complex combines Ottoman, Seljuk, Persian and Armenian architectural styles to perfectly reflect the layers of culture and history that define this part of Turkey. Inside, visitors can admire the beautiful facades, a mosque, opulent ceremonial halls, arched gates and a mausoleum.

The Ishak Pasha Palace cuts a striking figure against a backdrop of mountain peaks, with the city of Doğgubeyazit stretched out in the valley below.

Quick tip: This part of Eastern Turkey experiences heavy snowfall in winter , so it’s preferable to visit in late spring or summer.

17. Alacati: A charming alternative to Cesme

Located on the Aegean Coast close to Izmir, Alacati is a little slice of blue-and-white paradise. If you want to walk relatively quieter laneways and experience sleeping inside an authentic stone house, Alacati is a good alternative to the more-popular Cesme.

Charming stone houses draped in bougainvillaea flowers and cobbled streets make this one of the most traditional towns in Turkey. There is plenty to do in Alacati to warrant staying for a few nights, from boat trips and windsurfing to summiting the nearby 16th-century Cesme Castle. But your time might be best spent simply weaving your way between cute restaurants and bars that serve local wine.

Subtle differences in the shape and layout of Alacati’s historic houses reveals the story of their owners: Homes that belonged to Ottoman Greek families have an enclosed balcony and cumba alcove window, and are usually painted in violet or Aegean blue. Besides the architecture, windmills and street murals add to Alacati’s appeal.

Get there: 1 hour by road from Izmir. Where to stay: Gaia Alacati, stunning rooms inside an authentic stone house. Search rooms here .

18. Safranbolu: One of the best small towns in Turkey

If you’re on the hunt for Turkey’s cutest small town, look no further than Safranbolu. Located in the Black Sea region on a former tributary of the Old Silk Road , Safranbolu used to be a centre for growing and trading saffron. Hence the name, which combines the name of the precious spice and the Greek word polis , meaning ‘city’.

The town revolves around Çarşı district, where hundreds of perfectly preserved Ottoman houses line charming cobbled streets. This style of architecture can be seen across the old Ottoman world, from Berat in Albania to Plovdiv in Bulgaria . Safranbolu’s houses are among the finest in the region – no wonder the entire town was inscribed as a UNESCO Site in 1994. More than 1000 other registered historical artifacts can be found on Safranbolu’s streets, including an ancient sundial.

The 17th-century Cinci Han – once a caravanserai – now provides visitors with sweeping views from its rooftop, while the restored Tarihi Cinci Hamam offers the chance to experience a traditional 17th-century bathhouse.

Get there: 6-hour coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Mehves Hanim Konagi, design hotel in a heritage Ottoman mansion. Search rooms here .

19. Mount Nemrut: A lesser-known archaeological site

Well-known among Turkish people but still relatively obscure on the world stage, Mount Nemrut is a true hidden gem. Located in south-eastern Turkey within Mount Nemrut National Park, this 2,100-metre-tall peak is one of the highest in the country.

Majestic as it may be, it’s not the natural landscape that makes Mount Nemrut memorable – rather, it’s the area’s ancient ruins. Recognised by UNESCO as the royal tomb of Antiochus, the site dates to the 1st century BC. Huge limestone heads now strewn across the volcanic soil once topped seated statues depicting the Greek and Persian gods. At some point in history the pantheon was ransacked and the statues desecrated, creating the otherworldly scene you see today.

Often referred to as the ‘Throne of the Gods’, Nemrut Park has many more archaeological treasures to discover, including burial sites, Roman bridges , and the ruins of ancient cities associated with the ancient Kingdom of Commagene.

Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Adiyaman. Where to stay: Nemrut Kervansaray Hotel, historic property and closest option to the top of Mount Nemrut. Search rooms here .

20. Mardin: An ancient city in Anatolia

Floating on a rocky outcrop above the Mesopotamian plain, the city of Mardin in Anatolia is both a time capsule and a living library of history, archaeology and religious heritage. Better still, it’s almost completely free of mass-tourism.

Fashioned almost entirely from locally mined, buff-coloured limestone, the city emerges from the landscape as if it were a natural rock formation. The narrow streets are bristling with traditional houses – take note of the local building style, which favours sloping facades and big courtyards – interspersed with historic buildings and little workshops belonging to the city’s Syrian Orthodox silversmiths.

Climb up to the top of the ridge for stunning views of the mountain village and surrounding grasslands from the citadel. On a clear day, you might be able to see all the way to the Syrian border.

There is immense beauty in Mardin’s diversity: The proliferation of churches and mosques belonging to different denominations attest to the area’s long and storied history. Be sure to visit the Meryem Ana Syriac Catholic Church (1895), the Surp Kevork Armenian Apostolic Church, the Mor Hirmiz Chaldean Catholic Church, and the Mor Petrus and Pavlus Assyrian Protestant Church.

Get there: 2-hour flight from Istanbul or 4 hours by road from Gaziantep. Where to stay: Maridin Hotel, stunning suites set in a historic stone building with rooftop terraces, Turkish baths and a pool inside a cave! Search rooms here .

21. Konya: Home of the Whirling Dervishes

Konya is known throughout Turkey and the world for one thing: As the home of the Islamic Mevlevi Order, AKA the Whirling Dervishes . As the last residence of Rumi, the Sufi sect was founded here in Turkey’s spiritual heartland back in 1273.

One of the top things to do in Konya is of course to enjoy an authentic Whirling Dervishes experience. Semas take place on weekends at the Mevlana Cultural Centre. The Mevlana Museum is very much worth visiting if you want to learn more about Dervish traditions – or for a fully immersive cultural experience, attend the Mevlana Festival, which is held every December.

Other points of interest include the myriad of beautiful mosques and the Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden.

Get there: 1-hour flight from Istanbul or 3 hours by road from Ankara. Where to stay: Konya Dervish Hotel, cosy rooms inside a 200-year-old Ottoman house. Search rooms here .

22. Amasra: A laid-back fishing village on the Black Sea

The fishing village of Amasra is a somewhat peaceful place to retreat from the crowds that descend on Turkey’s Black Sea Coast every summer. Small sandy beaches, restaurants serving fresh fish, and boat trips to the two nearby islands, Big Island and Rabbit Island, are among the most popular activities on offer.

Curvaceous Amasra takes its form from the natural harbour at its centre. The Roman-era Amasra Castle overlooks the bay, with a tide of little red roofs running down the hill to meet the inky waters of the Black Sea.

Get there: 5.5 hours by road from Istanbul. Where to stay: Amasra Kerem Apart, self-contained beach apartment with panoramic terrace views. Search rooms here .

23. Aladaglar National Park: Crimson Peaks & waterfalls

The perennially snow-capped mountains of Aladaglar National Park are a popular destination for skiing in winter and for trekking in the warmer months. The highest peaks in the park – there are no less than four that tower above 3,700 metres – command views of both the Black Sea and the Mediterranean.

The Ala-Daglar range extends over four provinces in central Turkey and offers some of the country’s best alpine hiking and mountaineering. One of the most beautiful spots here is the Kapuzbasi Waterfalls and glacier ponds, which offer cool relief for trekkers during summer.

Sunset in Aladaglar National Park is something else. Known as the ‘Crimson Mountains’ in Turkish, the Ala-Daglar are graced by a brilliant scarlet flush every evening, painting a truly magnificent picture.

Get there: 2 hours by road from Kayseri. Where to stay: Taurus Guest House, simple rooms and Turkish food prepared from organic ingredients at the edge of the park in Cukurbag. Search rooms here .

24. Sirince: Turkey’s breakfast village

One of the best things to do in Turkey is eat a lavish kahvalti spread breakfast – and one of the best places for breakfast in the entire country is in picturesque Sirince.

This small village on a hill is easy to reach from Izmir and less than 30 minutes’ drive from the ancient city of Ephesus. Known for its organic garden produce and the buzzing Sirince Bazaar, chefs here draw on local supplies to furnish some of the most delicious breakfast mezes in the land. There are dozens of cafes and pansiyons on the town’s pedestrian-only streets, each serving up different early morning specialties. Hilltop Sirincem Restaurant & Cafe Pansiyon is one of the most popular.

Come for breakfast, stay for the views! The old-style houses here command gorgeous outlooks from every direction. Spend a couple of slow-paced nights using Sirince as a base for visiting the various sights around the area – and you can enjoy a home-cooked kahvalti every morning!

Get there: 20 minutes by road from Ephesus or 1 hour by road from Izmir. Where to stay: Heaven’s Gate, an idyllic stone-and-wood family home with generous private suites and a pool. Search rooms here .

25. Sanliurfa: The City of Prophets

Sanliurfa (Urfa) is the ideal place to stay when visiting the world’s oldest temple, Gobekli Tepe. The Neolithic archaeological site is a mere 30 minutes by road from the city. But Urfa has its own charms that make it more than worthy of your time.

Sometimes called ‘the City of Prophets’, legend says that Abraham was born in Urfa. Its relevance to Jewish, Christian and Islamic history makes Sanliurfa a popular pilgrimage site for believers of the three faiths. Many of the city’s most prominent landmarks, including the Pool of Sacred Fish (where Nimrod cast Abraham into the fire), are tied to Biblical history. Take a stroll through the leafy Golbasi Park or explore the warren-like souq. Don’t miss the views from the 9th-century Urfa castle or a visit to the stunning 12th-century Great Mosque.

A must-do in Urfa is to stay at the Palmyra Boutique Hotel, which is set inside a restored palace. The opulent rooms and character-filled hallways and terraces are reason enough to visit Urfa!

Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Gaziantep. Where to stay: Palmyra Boutique Hotel, elegant rooms in the city centre. Search rooms here .

Which of these pretty places in Turkey are you most excited about visiting? What did I miss? Leave your recommendations in the comments below!

Turkey essentials

Here are some of the websites and services I recommend for planning a trip to Turkey. Remember to check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Turkey using the Skyscanner website .

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Turkey and apply for an expedited visa online.

DOCUMENTATION: Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip to Turkey with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

CAR HIRE: Use the Local Rent platform to hire a car from a local agent. Prices start from as little as 18€ per day.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Turkey hotel deals on Booking.com .

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Browse the Viator website to find the best itineraries and prices for Istanbul food tours, Cappadocia balloon rides and more!

More Turkey inspiration

• The perfect first-timer’s itinerary for 4 days in Istanbul
• Essential travel tips for Istanbul
• Istanbul travel budget
• Guide to Arnavutkoy , a hidden gem in Istanbul
• Tips for visiting Istanbul’s Galata Tower
• Where to go in Turkey in winter

Amazing Information.

Thanks for the great list.

Great list. I would also add Sanliurfa, Mardin and Diyarbakir. I believe they are amazing.

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• 7 Fun Things To Do In Summer In Turkey To Explore The Land Of Kebabs!

26 Jun 2023

As soon as summers arrive, the irresistible desire of exploring new places comes with it. The days are long enough to travel to distant places and to have an encounter with the distinct culture and traditions of that place. If traveling to eminent places and summers go hand in hand for you, then you should definitely put Turkey on your bucket list. Famed for its ancient ruins, grand monuments, and traditional food, Turkey is for those who love rich history, scenic beaches, delicious Kebabs, and spending summer in Turkey will ensure that all your wishes are fulfilled. It’s time for you to welcome the summer in the country where the legendary city of Troy exists. Fascinating enough? Get packed and leave for an intoxicating vacay right away!

Weather In Summer In Turkey

If you are wondering in which months summer sets in Turkey or what is the highest temperature observed in Turkey, then get ready to have your answers. Summer season rolls in Turkey in the month of July and stays till August. A lot of tourists visit Turkey in summer season as the country looks breathtakingly beautiful when the summer sun shines on it.

7 Things To Do In Summer In Turkey

An enticing summer vacation also requires a perfect list of things you can enjoy while you are in Turkey. So, here is a list including the best places in Turkey for summer where you can indulge in interesting things to do in Turkey. Take a look!

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1. Tourist Attractions

From the scintillating city of Istanbul to the ancient city of Ephesus, there a lot of places to visit in summer in Turkey . Explore the famous historical spots in Istanbul like The Blue Mosque , Hagia Sophia or visit the port city of Ephesus, Turkey will make your summer trip a memorable one. Those of you who are history lovers will surely enjoy the ancient ruins which reflect the glorious past of Turkey.

Best Places To Visit: The Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace Museum

Must Read: Turkey In May: An Exquisite Guide For Your Wanderlust Soul!

Beaches in Turkey are meant for those who love the quintessential things like summer tan, cocktails and street food. The people of Turkey believe that you don’t need to go to food, it will come to you as there are many street vendors on the beaches who serve delicious local cuisines like honey-glazed peanuts, cone of sesame and more. So, which one are you going to try?

Best Beaches To Visit: Kabak Beach, Blue Lagoon, Cleopatra’s Beach

3. Cappadocia

Are you a trekking enthusiast? Turkey has picturesque landscapes for you to trek on and capture on your polaroids. Explore the stunning valleys and chimney-shaped rock formations while you soak in the alluring view. Make your summer trip more enticing by taking a hot air balloon ride which is immensely popular among the tourists. Cappadocia is famous as the magical world straight out from the scenes of Star Wars. Don’t forget to explore the Love valley and to stay at the exquisite cave hotel when you are done with your trek.

Things To Do: Hot Air Balloon Ride, Trekking, Hiking

Suggested Read: 8 Incredible Restaurants In Turkey That Are Creating A Lot Of Buzz

4. Cemberlitas Hamami

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Turkey is known for its historical Hammams and Cemberlitas Hamami is one of the most renowned one. Established by Mimar Sinan in 1584, Cemberlitas Hamami is a popular Turkish bath located at the Divanyolu Street. Get into the summer vacay vibes by heading here to relish an extravagant bath. Lie on the marble, soak in the essential oils applied to your body and soothe your body and soul.

Location: Mollafenari Mh., Vezirhan Cd. No:8, 34440 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey

5. Local Delicacies

Learn how to cook Baklava or get to know the special ingredients used while making the traditional dishes in Turkey. Popular for its Kebabs, Turkey has different types of Kebabs that you must try. Stay at a homestay and cook with the locals. They are known to be friendly and for treating tourists remarkably by providing them a homelike stay and delicious food.

Must Try Dishes: Kebab, Baklava, Lahmacun

Suggested Read: 15 Best Honeymoon Destinations In Turkey For A Perfect Romantic Trip

Don’t miss out on the national drink of Turkey on your vacation in summer in Turkey . Cay is a Turkish drink that is served in tulip-shaped cups and is also offered for free in regional buses as it an important part of Turkish culture. Enjoy a cup of tea at bedtime to have a relaxing sleep.

Where To Try At: Cay-Tea’s Lunchroom & Deco Home

7. Dondurma

Wondering what else you can try on your summer vacation? Another Turkish specialty is the Maras dondurması which means ‘the ice cream of the city’. Made by whipped cream, sugar, cream, mastic, salep, and sugar, Dondurma is famous as the ice cream which doesn’t melt very fast and which defies the law of gravity. Beat the summer heat while you try the tasty flavor of the ice cream which breaks all rules.

Suggested Read: 4 Best Ways To Experience Safari In Istanbul On A Thrilling Turkey Vacation

Tips For Your Summer Trip

• Apply for your Turkey visa in advance.
• Learn a few Turkish phrases which will help you for sure on your trip.
• Use public transport as it is quite safe and budget-friendly.
• Wear cotton clothes as Turkey is known for its hot and dry summers.
• Wear decent clothes while visiting Mosques

Further Read: Islands In Turkey: 6 Spectacular Islands In The Europe Of Asia

Turkey is a beautiful country which should be explored by all those who love historical places and food. Don’t forget to explore all the cities in Turkey as each one of them will surely cast a spell on you! Already excited? Get packed, plan your Turkey vacay and get ready to fall in love with the country where once the Romans ruled!

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12 Best Beaches Worth A Visit In Turkey: Top Summer Vacation Destinations In 2024

Summer is always synonymous with beach tourism, and Turkey is no exception. We have summarized some of the beaches that are really worth visiting in Turkey. Make them a reference, and have the best summer vacation experience in Turkey.

In fact, Turkey is one destination worth visiting for a summer vacation.

Not only about Turkey’s famously beautiful beaches, but it will also be a more complete experience when we can visit historical places and some of the vibrant events that are held during the summer.

One of the biggest magnets that attract tourists to visit Turkey during summer is its famously beautiful coastline.

The beautiful beaches in Turkey have crystal clear water and sandy beaches. Some of Turkey’s popular tourist beaches are spread across several regions such as Antalya, Alanya, and Bodrum.

Not only sunbathing, but you can also do other activities during summer in Turkey such as swimming, boat trip, parasailing, jet skiing, and many more.

However, which Turkish beaches are the most worth visiting?

Some travelers have a hard time deciding which one is the best to visit because there are actually so many worth visiting.

To make it easier for our readers to determine which beaches in Turkey are worth visiting during summer, some points that should be considered are the size of the beach, the quality of the sand, and also the availability of facilities such as sun loungers, restaurants, and so on.

Determining which beach in Turkey to visit can also be based on its location. For example, if you will be in Istanbul but do not have much time for a vacation. Then you can consider beaches that are worth visiting close to Istanbul.

However, if you really want to experience a summer vacation in Turkey, we highly recommend the sandy beaches of Antalya.

Antalya is a complete destination. Not only can you find beautiful beaches, but you can also explore historical sites and play with your family at the amusement parks in Antalya.

In this article, we have summarized and will show you which beaches are worth visiting during your summer vacation in Turkey.

Are you planning a summer vacation in Turkey? Then some of our recommendations below might be perfect for you.

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Summer 2024: The perfect time to visit beaches in Turkey.

At least the summer in Turkey will last for four months in 2024.

Weather in June July August and September in Turkey will be hot. And this is the perfect time to sunbathe on the beautiful coast of Turkey.

So, if you plan to go on holiday to Turkey between June and September this year, make sure you include some of the beaches in Turkey in your Turkey travel itinerary.

The best beaches we will share here will not be reviewed based on where they are in Turkey. But we will review it based on the number of people who have visited the beaches.

If at this time there are still people who ask whether Turkey has beautiful beaches to visit, it means that they don’t know Turkey well yet.

In fact, Turkey has a coastline of 8,333 km with its beautiful and natural beaches.

You will spend a lot of time if you want to visit all the beaches.

But here we provide a summary, of which 12 beaches are very appropriate for you to include in your summer vacation itinerary in Turkey.

Top best beaches in Turkey for your summer vacation destinations.

Who would have thought that Turkey has some of the best beaches in the world?

The beaches are famously beautiful among tourists from Europe and tourists all over the world in general.

And even if you are one of the many tourists from the United States, you are not wrong in determining your summer vacation destination this time. There are already many tourists from the US, UK, UAE, and even Asia planning a vacation to Turkey in the summer of this year.

Besides visiting beautiful beaches in Turkey, there are still lots of things you can do in Turkey in the summer.

But to help you plan your summer vacation in Turkey , this article will first discuss only beautiful beaches in Turkey that you can visit with your family.

Here is the list of top 12 best beaches to visit in Turkey: summer vacation destinations for families.

1. Ladies Beach in Kusadasi Turkey.

This beach is located in Kusadasi, precisely in the Aydin province in Turkey.

Kusadasi itself is not too far from Istanbul. Access to Kusadasi is very easy. Kusadasi is on the main route connecting Istanbul with other popular cities for tourism in Turkey such as Pamukkale, Cappadocia, Antalya, and many more.

This condition which then makes Ladies beach become one of the beaches in Turkey which attracts many tourists.

Ladies beach is one of the sandy beaches in Kusadasi Turkey.

Why is it known as Ladies beach?

In Turkish terms, this beach is called Kadinlar Denizi which means “women’s sea.”

At first, during the Ottoman period, this beach was only intended for women. At that time only women were allowed to swim at this beach.

That is why then this beach is known as women’s sea, and then it is internationally known as Ladies beach.

Currently, men or women may visit and swim at Ladies beach.

Local people love to visit this beach on weekends. Indeed, at the weekend the visitors have increased. But on weekdays, this beach is still visited by many both international and local tourists.

Kusadasi has it all. The city whose main industry is tourism is very worthy to be visited. There are many excellent tourist spots in Kusadasi apart from its beautiful beaches. Here you can visit many historical sites, amusement parks, and also markets for shopping.

And another advantage, Kusadasi is on the main route which connects Istanbul with other famous cities in Turkey. So you can arrange a travel itinerary, where at the same time you can visit Istanbul, Bursa, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, Konya, Cappadocia, and Ankara.

It is always a pleasant experience to spend a few days in Kusadasi. Make sure you choose the best hotel in Kusadasi for your stay here.

2. Kleopatra Beach in Alanya Turkey.

The beach which is famous for its golden sand is located in Antalya province, precisely in the Alanya district.

The facts prove that this beach has been able to attract no less than two million tourists every year.

Alanya as a summer tourist destination in Turkey has contributed a lot because this district is home to one of the beautiful beaches in Turkey.

It is said that the story, Cleopatra, a Hellenistic queen from ancient Egypt, between 69-30 BC, she loved sunbathing on this beach because of its golden sand and loved swimming in the clear blue water like crystal.

This beach was a gift from an important Roman figure named Antonius for Cleopatra.

And Cleopatra immediately fell in love with its golden sand.

This two-kilometer long beach is famous all over the world.

Its very strategic position is one of the attractions of this beach. This beach is one of the rare places in the world because here tourists can swim in the center of the city. And there are many more activities that can be done on this beach.

Head of the tourism association there said: no less than 3.5 million tourists came to Alanya, 80% of the tourists must have visited Kleopatra beach. And this data continues to rise every year.

So, if you are planning a vacation in Turkey in the summer, we highly recommend visiting this beach.

The sand on Kleopatra beach is slightly thicker and not sticky on the body. So you can lie on the sand of the beach.

3. Kaputas Beach in Kalkan Turkey.

Some say that Kaputas beach is the most famous beach in Turkey.

Kaputas beach is located in Antalya province, between Kas and Kalkan in southwestern Turkey. This beach is one of the best beaches in Antalya.

You can find Kaputas beach 20 kilometers from Kas or 7 kilometers from Kalkan.

This beach is famous for its natural environment.

Maybe you are not aware, there are lots of photos of this beach circulating on the internet or in various travel guide books.

If you see a picture of a beach with a very narrow valley and surrounded by steep cliffs, that’s Kaputas beach in Turkey.

From the road beside the cliff, you need to go down about 200 steps to get to the beach.

The earlier you visit the Kaputas beach the better. Because there will be more tourists, whether local or international, visit this beach.

The road next to the cliff or on the steps will continue to grow crowded by tourists. They will stop there and take pictures.

Kaputas Beach when seen or photographed from the top of the road will be very beautiful.

Besides, Kaputas beach is also a leading destination on a tour with a gulet cruise in Turkey.

4. Kalkan public beach.

Although the location is closer to Fethiye, Kalkan is still included in the administrative area of ​​Antalya.

Kalkan’s public beach is located close to the harbor entrance.

This Kalkan public beach has lots of white pebbles. If the white gravel is visible on the beach, it means that the beach water here must be very clear. But if we look at the facts, this Kalkan beach holds the status of Blue Flag.

The access from the city center to the beach is very easy. It is only 3 minutes walk from Kalkan Old Town.

Around the beach, you can also find various kinds of Turkish culinary food.

The beach is not too big, it looks very crowded during the summer.

The Kalkan public beach is one of the beaches that you can consider visiting in your summer vacation itinerary in Turkey.

5. Lara Beach in Antalya Turkey.

Lara Beach is one of Turkey’s Mediterranean beaches located in Antalya province.

This beach is only about 5 kilometers from Antalya airport (AYT).

Lara Beach is also one of the best sandy beaches located in Antalya that Turkey has.

What is different from this Lara beach?

Lara Beach is often dubbed Turkey’s Las Vegas.

In the area around Lara beach, you can find many luxury hotels, large swimming pools, waterparks, restaurants, and various other pampering facilities.

Lara Beach contributed to winning the Blue Flag beach award. Its golden sand and crystal blue water make it a very comfortable place for summer vacation with family.

You can feel the clarity of the blue water by swimming at Lara beach. Or you can also stay at the resorts available at Lara beach.

Of course, this will be an experience that you will never forget as long as you and your family go on a summer vacation at Lara beach in Antalya Turkey.

>> Find it here: Recommendations for the best hotels in the top-rated area of Lara Beach Antalya.

6. Konyaalti Beach in Antalya Turkey.

Konyaalti Beach is one of the main beaches in Antalya besides Lara beach. And in fact, this beach is among the best in Antalya.

This beach is located on the west side of the city and extends 7 kilometers from the cliffs of Mount Beydağları.

Do not want to lose from Lara beach, around the beach you can also easily find parks, many bars, cafes, night clubs, and some luxury hotels.

Konyaalti Beach is also one of the Blue Flag beaches in Turkey.

If the beach is included in the Blue Flag list, it means that Konyaalti beach has fulfilled the high standards of the European Union for cleanliness and sanitation, both for the beach sand and the beach waters as well.

Staying a few days at Konyaalti beach can also be your choice if you want to enjoy the beaches in Antalya for a longer time.

Make sure you find comfortable accommodations around Konyaalti beach.

7. Kabak Beach.

Kabak Beach is one of the beaches on the Mediterranean coastline located on the southern side of Turkey.

This beach becomes very phenomenal because of its existence which is still very natural. You will have difficulty finding resort hotels, English-style pubs, sunbeds lined up, and so forth here.

Kabak Beach is known as one of Turkey’s treasures.

The area here is still far from air pollution. This situation makes the Kabak beach area very refreshing.

The environment is very natural. There is only a small cove, surrounded by amazing hikes, fresh waterfalls, and a few wooden chalets. A very amazing view on Kabak beach.

There are no roads, no shops, no cars, and maybe you will also have trouble getting a phone signal.

If you have decided to stay at Kabak beach, it means you must also dare to leave all the hustle and bustle of city life.

Get ready to get new peace in your life.

If you are one with nature on Kabak beach, you will not feel that you have lived here long enough.

8. Butterfly Valley in Fethiye Turkey.

Butterfly valley is a valley on the Turkish Mediterranean coast, more precisely located in the Fethiye district of Mugla province.

The term butterfly is not known for reasons. This valley is home to many species of butterflies.

Butterfly Valley is another treasure that belongs to Turkey.

Butterfly Valley is a secluded beach, where everything you will encounter here is a natural beauty.

One of the reasons why this valley is still maintained its purity is because of its access which can only be reached by boat.

Surely you need to know how to reach Butterfly Valley and note it to your summer itinerary.

Most tours with Gulet cruises will stop in this valley.

>> You can check one of the packages here: 4-day 3-night blue gulet cruise from Olympos Antalya to Fethiye.

Of course with these conditions, there aren’t many people who come to this very remote beach.

Around the valley, there are also mountains with an area of ​​86,000 square meters. Become more charming because it is equipped with a very amazing blue sea, complete with its pure white beach sand.

There are more than 100 species of butterflies in Butterfly Valley, including the local species of black, white, and orange Jersey Tiger butterflies.

You can find these butterflies near lavender flowers in Butterfly Valley.

The Turkish government has also declared that this valley is a conservation area starting from 1987, to protect the butterflies and all the natural habitats that are here.

Clear blue waters of the beach, white sand beach, butterflies, lavender flowers, and mountains. A natural habitat that you can get in one visit at Butterfly Valley.

One more tourist destination that you must write in your summer vacation itinerary in Turkey.

9. Olympos Beach in Antalya Turkey.

Olympos was a city in ancient Lycia.

The city is located in a river valley close to the sea.

Olympos Beach is one of the best sandy beaches in Antalya , precisely on the southern side of the city. It is a beach with crystal clear blue water. The mountains behind the beach add to the stunning views of the coast.

Here everything is also still very natural. Even you can still hear natural animal sounds like crickets.

The existence of loggerheads (Caretta Caretta) is freed here.

Loggerheads buried their eggs for two months here. And after the breeding is complete, the eggs will hatch at night.

On the Olympos beach, sunbeds and umbrellas are prohibited. Especially if we will dig the ground and put an umbrella into it. This is strictly prohibited because it is to keep the loggerheads eggs in the ground.

Night activities at Olympos beach are also restricted. There should be no music that is too loud or too much light. It is feared that such a situation will disturb the baby turtles, so the babies will be confused to find their way back to the sea.

There are no facilities on this beach. Cars are also not allowed to enter the beach. A car park is provided near the beach entrance.

Another highlight of the Olympos beach is the ruins of a very historic site near the beach area. Before or after going to the beach you can visit the historic ruins site.

Olympos Beach is also often the starting point or stops of a sailing tour package using the Gulet cruise.

We strongly recommend you take a tour package by enjoying the beaches on the Turkish coastline with a gulet cruise.

10. Oludeniz Blue Lagoon in Fethiye Turkey.

Oludeniz means a dead sea. Called the dead sea because the water is very calm even during storms.

The water is calm and blue which later made this place known as the Blue Lagoon.

Oludeniz Blue Lagoon is a beach resort located in the Fethiye district in the Mugla province of Turkey. More precisely 14 kilometers to the south of Fethiye, close to Mount Babadag.

The beach here is a pebble beach. Oludeniz Blue Lagoon is also a sandy bay.

Oludeniz seawater is famous for having a very amazing feel of turquoise.

Oludeniz Blue Lagoon is also recognized as a Blue Flag beach.

Another activity that you can do here is paragliding.

Paragliding here is very interesting because you can enjoy the beauty of Oludeniz Blue Lagoon from above. Supported by stable weather and the existence of the Babadag mountain makes the paragliding experience even more challenging.

We suggest, Oludeniz Blue Lagoon is also one of the tourist attractions you must visit during your summer vacation in Turkey.

11. Patara Beach.

Patara Beach is one of the sandy beaches whose existence is very unique in Turkey.

Although the beach is long, Patara beach is never crowded.

Patara Beach has a length of 20 kilometers and a width of 50 meters.

You can reach this beach by driving 17 kilometers west of Kalkan.

There is a Patara village around the coast, but the village is relatively small. And it is necessary to travel about 3.5 kilometers from the highway to reach the village.

The small village can only provide a few rooms for tourists who come to Patara beach.

Near the beach there are also ancient Patara ruins, so regulations here forbid the construction of large hotels in the archeological zone. The beach must be protected from massive development.

That condition makes Patara beach never crowded with visitors.

But for some people, the situation of a deserted beach becomes something they are looking for. They really want to enjoy the atmosphere of the beach without much disturbance from beach visitors.

12. Kekova Island.

Kekova island which was once a remote place as the first democratic federation in Turkey.

That period was very long ago, even before the Ottoman, Byzantine, or Roman periods.

It is said that the federation existed in 2000 BC. This included the city of Simena which was the center of marine trade at the time.

Simena then suffered damage several times due to the earthquake. End of the story, Simena drifted away by the waves.

Currently, you can still see the ruins of the city of Simena.

There are seen some ruins such as buildings, houses, Lycian tombs, and even some parts of the early church still visible ruins in the water.

Kekova Island is the location where the ruins are.

Kekova Island is currently uninhabited.

Although sometimes we can still see some goats coming and grazing among the city ruins.

In 1990, the Turkish government declared that the island of Kekova was a Specially Protected Area, and prohibited further developments on the island.

UNESCO also included him as a candidate for World Heritage status.

Swimming, snorkeling, diving or jet skiing are prohibited on Kekova Island.

But to visit this island can still be possible by chartering a ship.

So again we recommend, make sure you take a tour package with the Gulet cruise in Turkey.

>> Here is one example: Tour the blue Gulet cruise and visit Kekova Island.

Conclusion : The best beaches to visit during summer vacation in Turkey.

Surely, summer is one of the perfect times to vacation in Turkey . In summer, you can experience Turkey’s famous beaches, which are very beautiful and natural.

Are you planning to have a summer vacation in Turkey? Make sure you know what things Turkey has to offer in the summer.

One thing you should know is where the beautiful beaches are in Turkey.

You also need to know that there is a city in Turkey that is not a resort city but has beaches. The city is Istanbul. It turns out that many people enjoy summer vacations in Istanbul because of the less crowded conditions. And of course, you can still feel the beach atmosphere in Istanbul.

>> You can see a recommendation here: The best beaches in Istanbul that are worth a visit during the summer in Turkey.

Turkey has a very long coastline. And along the coastline, Turkey has beautiful beaches that are famous all over the world.

There are even some beaches that are classified as treasures of Turkey. It is said so because the beaches are very closely guarded naturalness.

And even some beaches have not been much touched by humans, even forbidden to hold tourism development on certain beaches in Turkey.

Planning your vacation itinerary carefully is the key to getting the best quality during your vacation in Turkey.

Make sure you feel a unique experience during summer vacation in Turkey. One way is to take a Gulet cruise in Turkey. But you need to know, with a gulet cruise you need more time. You will spend a few days on the gulet.

If you have less time, you can consider taking a boat trip in Turkey. This boat trip also has a great route through the top spots during the summer in Turkey such as Antalya, Fethiye, Marmaris, and Kas.

>> You can see more complete details here: Boat trip (tour) in Turkey. And especially for Antalya, you can see boat tour recommendations in Antalya here.

Turkey has unique things that can spoil tourists who visit this country.

Be ready. Turkey is ready to pamper you with its beautiful beaches.

Our readers who are planning a summer vacation in Turkey also read the following articles:

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Where to go on a summer vacation in Turkey? [List of beach towns]

Turkey has always been a very popular summer destination for European and American holidaymakers who want to enjoy the sun, a good hotel and sandy beaches with turquoise water … for a more reasonable price than other Mediterranean countries such as Italy or Greece.

If you also want to enjoy a summer vacation in Turkey but are a little lost, I understand you! The west coast of Turkey, also known as the Turkish riviera, is rich in beaches and popular cities, and it can be difficult to make a choice when preparing for your summer.

Whether you book your trip alone, or via an “all inclusive” holiday package, which will cost you a little more, you will have a wide choice of destinations, each as wonderful as the other.

In this article, I want to help you choose the right city, to make a vacation that suits you. Indeed, the possibilities of activities are diverse according to the cities, and you will find below the details of each one in order to make the best choice.

Do not hesitate to give your opinion in the comments and consult the travel guides of each of the cities for more details.

Table of Contents

Izmir is not really a summer vacation destination in Turkey. It is the third biggest city in Turkey, located on the west coast and considered as the most European city of the country. How ever, you can’t really go to the beach and swim in Izmir. You can discover this amazing city in 2 days, preferably in a 5-Star hotel , and then move on to other destinations that have sandy beaches and fun water activities more in the south. After discovering Izmir, if you don’t have a lot of time, you can also book a resort hotel near Izmir  (less than 2 hours drive) for beach time.

• Check our complete travel guide of Izmir for more information

CESME PENINSULA

The Cesme Peninsula is located less than 50 kms from the center of Izmir, and 90 kms for the tip of it. It is a very quiet peninsula and rich in nature. To the north and south of it, you will find many beaches and secret coves ideal for swimming and sipping cocktails. The peninsula is rather favored by well-off locals from Turkey, but is attracting more and more foreign travelers, especially couples, solo travelers (including women) and groups of friends who want to chill and have fun. Families who know the area appreciate renting a villa in the area to spend a holiday with their children or simply book in “all inclusive” resorts hotels that are quite affordable compared to Antalya or Bodrum.

The 2 popular cities on the peninsula that are preferred for booking a hotel are :

• Cesme Center, an old fishing village that offers a marina and a modest market.
• Alacati, a charming seaside town, very lively in the evening with its large market, full of boutique hotels and a very lively nightlife with dozens of bars and clubs.

From these two cities, you can take a taxi and reach the nearby beaches or coves, but to move freely around the peninsula, renting a car is still more convenient.

• Check our complete  travel guide of Cesme Peninsula  for more information

Kusadasi is a rather small and intimate summer town compared to other towns in Turkey. It is a lovely place preferred by families who want to enjoy nice beaches, a calm atmosphere and fun water parks . The beach town also offers many historical ruins to visit around, including Ephesus and Aphrodisias .  Its Pigeon island is the main attraction and a nice place to admire the horizon and the yachts  sailing .

• Check our complete travel guide of Kusadasi  for more information

Didim is considered one of the cheapest beach towns of the Turkish Riviera. Resort hotels and luxury hotels are rare, affordable average hotels are plenty. The town is still in the process of expending and the local activities are pretty limited. Didim is preferred by locals and Turkish diaspora that have summer houses over there. You still can find very nice hotels close to beautiful beaches around Didim that offer qualitative services and visit the Dydima ancient ruins if you are looking for cultural activities.

Special mention to the nightlife is Didim that provides very entertaining nights in bars and Medusa club that invites famous DJs all summer long.

• Check our complete travel guide of Didim for more information

Bodrum is one of the most popular beach resort towns of Turkey. It is located in an amazing peninsula with the same name, filled with a dozen of other beach towns definitely worth visiting. Each beach town of the peninsula offers amazing beaches and very confortable hotels and resort hotels. You will enjoy amazing landscapes, cristal blue water, fancy marinas, very trendy shops and delicious restaurants. Bodrum also offers a very active nightlife with famous big clubs and constant concerts. The beach town of Bodrum can welcome any kind of vacationer. With its only-adult hotels for couples, huge resort hotels for families, very charming boutique hotels for solo travelers or friend groups and very luxury hotels for travelers who has a very confortable budget, Bodrum fits everybody.

Access to different beach towns on the peninsula are easy with the public mini-buses or taxis available. However, the peninsula’s different locations, beaches and bays are definitely more pleasant and easy to visit if you have your own car.

The downside of Bodrum is probably that it is quite crowded, especially from April to November. As it has become the favorite spot of well-off Turkish people to stay in since the pandemic, Bodrum prices are very high, which doesn’t prevent the place to be very crowded.

• Check our complete travel guide of Bodrum for more information

Marmaris is another very popular beach town of Turkey worth visiting. Marmaris is well-known in Turkey for being the paradise for nature lovers, however, it is becoming more and more a commercial beach town, with a lot of touristic activities and a loud nightlife. Marmaris suits tourists who are looking for average priced vacation and very nice landscapes but also fun water activities. As Marmaris is a very safe and diverse location, we recommend Marmaris for groups of friends, couples, solo travelers and families. The marina offers a lot of attractions and diversified restaurants that will make everybody happy.

The best advantage of Marmaris is that the surroundings are gorgeous and worth making a tour. Many islands, bays and beaches like the wonderful Sedir Island are reachable by car and other towns like Datça or Selimye which are wonderful places to spend at least a day, if not more.

• Read complete travel guide of Marmaris for more information.

Göcek is a very special place on the Turkish Riviera. This small beach town just above Fethiye with 6 different marinas that host the most luxurious yachts of the mediterranean region. These breathtaking landscapes are the perfect setting for boat trips, water sports and sailing. Gocek also offers very luxurious resort hotels, charming boutique hotels, very nice villas or penthouses to rend and the finest restaurants of the region. Spending a vacation in Gocek is definitely a treat for people who like calmness, nature and luxurious features as well as a less commercial type of vacation. That is the case of very wealthy Turkish people who all spend their vacation here.

• Check our complete travel guide of Göcek for more information

Often called “piece of paradise” by the locals, the city of Fethiye is one of the priceless jewels of Turkey. Turquoise blue beaches, fine sand, secret coves accessible only by boat, splendid hotels for all tastes, water sports and air and finally a very lively city center, Fethiye is really the perfect combo for any type of traveler.

Fethiye is a seaside resort that will delight vacationers who get up early and enjoy beautiful views, hiking, simple beaches, sports and most importantly relaxation. However, this city will not suit those who are looking for wild evenings and very good restaurants during their vacation. Regarding transport, public mini-buses are very convenient and take you from one place to another. However, renting a car will be more comfortable to discover the sumptuous surroundings. Be careful, the roads can be winding at times, especially on the Faralya side.

• Check our complete travel guide of Fethiye for more information

Not far from Fethiye, we find Kas, the most charming and quiet seaside town on the Turkish riviera. Kas is a very popular destination with Turks who appreciate the calm, the Mediterranean lifestyle, the good restaurants, the clean and warm sea, as well as the nature as far as the eye can see. Kas offers very good services, both in terms of hotel comfort, for most boutique hotels, and restaurants where you can eat local fish and seafood for very reasonable prices.

The advantage of Kas is that this city is located at a strategic point on the coast, close to the most beautiful beaches of Kas, close to Kekova Island, Fethiye and even Olympos, a great site to visit. However, you should know that Kas is not really the place to party. Indeed, in the evening, after 22h, the city becomes very quiet.

Check our complete travel guide of Kas for more information

Antalya is the most touristic city in Turkey, ahead of Istanbul. The region welcomes more than 10 million vacationers every year, including many European and Russian tourists. When we say Antalya, it is usually referring to the city and its old quarter, its popular Konyaalti and Lara beaches and its very popular commercial areas. But Antalya is also to a region, which includes many other seaside towns. Indeed, Antalya is surrounded by many cities such as Kemer, Belek, Side, Alanya … All these areas have their own specificities and correspond to a particular type of holiday. There are many areas with water hotels, ideal for children. There are also giant resort hotels, with thousands of rooms and a lively nightlife.

Despite the many ancient ruins scattered around the Antalya region, most vacationers who go to Antalya almost never leave their hotel. Indeed, the hotel being all inclusive, and offering activities, food and drinks all day, some consider it unnecessary to go out. If you are in summer (July-August) it is actually better not to leave the hotel during the day, because the temperatures can reach 42 ° C/107. 6 F°. In a pinch, it can be interesting to go out for sports activities such as hiking, paragliding, climbing or rafting (yes, Antalya offers all the sports you can imagine) and visit a waterfall.

All in all, Antalya is a beautiful place, hyper tourist, modern and very suitable for summer holidays, as well as winter holidays. Everything is set up for you to spend a dream holiday there and the region offers you a precious nature and a rich history to discover.

• Check our complete travel guide of Antalya for more information

SPECIAL MENTIONS

Istanbul is not a summer beach town, although you can find a lot of nice beaches few kilometres from the city center. The best thing is that on a trip to Istanbul, you can combine sightseeing the City of Two Continents with a beach vacation.

After exploring Istanbul’s fascinating mix of Occident and Orient and admiring sights like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and the Bosphorus, you can relax and unwind on the beach. From lively beach clubs to picturesque coves and lively beaches, there is a good selection of destinations less than a two-hour drive from Istanbul where you can enjoy summer vibes and a  relaxing  beach day.

Among the most popular beaches near Istanbul are definitely the beaches of the Prince’s Islands, which are located in the middle of nature, foremost Büyükada and Heybeliada. Other popular destinations are Caddebostan and Florya. Just outside Istanbul, the popular Black Sea coastal resorts of Kilyos, Şile and Ağva await sun worshippers. But Yalova and Rive also offer wonderful beach clubs.

In Istanbul and its surroundings, it is always advisable to prefer the beach clubs to the free public beaches (halk plaji) whenever possible. Although you pay a daily fee here, the beach clubs, which are usually open from June to September, promise a much more pleasant atmosphere as well as clean beaches.

• Read our complete travel guide of Istanbul for more information and tips.

Cappadocia is one of the most mystical places to visit in Turkey. It’s not your typical summer vacation spot because it’s in the middle of Turkey and can be quite hot, but it’s worth the visit. This region of Turkey is best known for its otherworldly landscape, created by thousands of years of volcanic activity. The result is a landscape full of strange rock formations, fairy chimneys and cave dwellings.

The heat in Cappadocia can get quite intense during the summer months, but there are plenty of cool caves and underground cities to explore to escape the heat. The region is also home to a number of historic sites, including Ihlara Valley and the Goreme Open Air Museum.

There are many activities to keep you busy, from hiking or horseback riding through one of the area’s stunning valleys to exploring churches and monasteries. The highlight though is hot air ballooning, providing travelers with a bird’s eye view of the unique terrain. So if you’re looking for an unusual but exceptional summer vacation spot, Cappadocia is well worth considering.

• Check out our complete travel guide of Cappadocia for more useful details.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable summer experience, Pamukkale is definitely one place you need to check out. The place is not a summer beach town, but it is most certainly one of the most interesting places to visit in Turkey.

Located 2 km from the town of Denizli in southwestern Turkey, Pamukkale is rightfully among the most popular destinations in the country, any time of the year! There are few places on earth as stunning as this UNESCO World Heritage Natural Site, with its turquoise pools and cascading white travertine terraces.

Instead of swimming in the sea and relaxing on the beach, here you can take a dip in the stunning thermal springs and enjoy some wellness. Pamukkale is home to some of the best hot springs in the country, so be sure to take advantage of them during your visit! These pools are made up of calcium carbonate minerals that have formed over time, creating these dreamlike white terraces and cliffs. In fact, the travertine pools have been used as a spa since the Roman times, and the water is said to have therapeutic properties.

In addition, there’s plenty to do in Pamukkale; from soaking up the incredible views and exploring the ruins of the ancient city of Hierapolis to taking a ride in a hot air balloon or even tandem paragliding, there’s something for everyone in this idyllic setting.

• Check out our complete Pamukkale Complete Travel Guide for more information.

Other articles to read about travel and vacation in Turkey :

• Most frequently asked questions about travel in Turkey
• All the free  Turkey travel guides of the Turkish Riviera
• What island to visit close to Turkey?
• Amazing things to do ideas in the Turkish Riviera

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Summer in Turkey: Weather, Destinations and Activities

• ~ mins read

Located at the crossroads between Asia and Europe, Turkey is an extremely diverse country with rich culture, history, and natural wonders. The best time to see all these things is during summer, when the conditions are warm and dry throughout the country. Summer in Turkey runs from June to September, the time of year when the country draws a large number of visitors.

From coastal cities of Marmaris and Izmir, to the ancient historical sites like Ephesus and Cappadocia, Turkey in summer is brimming with beauty and some of the best sightseeing opportunities. This is also a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and camping in Yedigoller National Park and Mount Gulluk-Termessos National Park, as well as trying out water sports in Alacati and Akcapinar. And the fun does not stop there. Summer is also the time when Turkey tours feature various festivals and events, offering a chance to mingle with locals and learn more about their culture and lifestyle.

• Naveenkumar Narayanan

Weather and temperatures in Turkey during summer

Regardless of where you choose to go, summer in Turkey, which begins in late June and ends in late September, is warm and dry across the board. July is the hottest month in Turkey, when the temperature in the southern part of the country such as Antalya can reach a high of 34°C. It is much cooler in places like Istanbul and Samsun in the northern region of Turkey, where temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C. Inland cities like Ankara and Kayseri also tend to be extremely hot during the day but the evenings are quite chilly. Temperatures here range from 10°C at night to 31°C during the day. However, humidity levels are low in summer. Cool, fresh breezes fill the air, particularly in coastal cities such as Antalya and Izmir. With virtually no precipitation, summer is also an ideal time to go on a hike. Hiking in Cappadocia can be a treat during the summer, as this region gets carpeted with beautiful wildflowers.

For a more seasonal overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit Turkey .

Other related articles: Turkey in June Turkey in July Turkey in August Turkey in September

Why visit Turkey in summer

The best time to visit Turkey is either in the spring or the fall. However, organizing a summer tour in Turkey has its benefits. Here are some of them:

• Beach fun: Summer in Turkey has the ideal weather for all beach-related activities. You can get a perfect tan while sunbathing on the coasts of Iztuzu Beach, try some water sports such as windsurfing in Turgutreis, or relax on one of many secluded beaches like Gideros Bay.
• Festive spirit: Summer season in Turkey abounds in festivals. You can listen to some classical music at the Istanbul International Music Festival, opt for some jazz at the Istanbul International Jazz Festival, or explore the local culture at the Kas Lycia Festival.
• Northern attractions: Summer months are also ideal for exploring the beauty of Turkey’s mountainous region in the north, which are often inaccessible during the winter due to snow. Uludag is an incredibly popular destination, offering breathtaking landscapes where you can cycle, camp, or simply enjoy a summer stroll.
• Adventure: Hiking is a great activity to try out in Turkey during the summer, for you will not have to worry about the rain interrupting your trip. A great option is Saint Paul Trail, which was used by Saint Paul on his first journey to Asia Minor. This trail is 500 km in length and passes through the Taurus Mountains as well as the ancient sites of Perge and Aspendos.

If you are considering a trip to Turkey in summer , check out our guide on planning a trip to Turkey .

Top 3 destination in Turkey during summer

Here are some of the top places to visit in Turkey in the summer.

1. Istanbul

If you are visiting Turkey, you cannot miss a trip to Istanbul . Summer in Istanbul is characterized by hot temperatures ranging from 18°C to 29°C with a low chance of precipitation. The city straddles Europe and Asia, and is a melting pot of different cultures.

Major attractions: Sophia Mosque, the Bosphorus Strait and Sultanahmet.

• Istanbul is home to several summer festivals, such as the Istanbul International Music Festival and Istanbul International Jazz Festival.
• There are great weather conditions for spending a day sailing in the Bosphorus Strait.
• For some visitors, summer weather in Istanbul can be too hot. If you are one of them, you should try to explore indoor attractions during midday hours, and plan outdoor excursions during the morning or evening.
• Prices may be affected by the high season, making summer months more expensive.

2. Akyaka 

Akyaka is a little town located on the eastern side of Gokova Bay. Here, temperatures during the summer could reach anywhere between 20°C and 38°C. The town is renowned for its stunning landscapes, characterized by unspoiled mountains facing the Mediterranean Sea.

Major attractions: Azmak Nehri, Azmak Kaya Mezarlari ruins and the secluded beaches located in its surroundings.

• This is the perfect place to try watersports such as windsurfing and kayaking.
• The surroundings of Akyaka are known for their unspoiled nature. Head to Sakar Gateway for the best view in the area.
• Even during the high seasons, you will be able to find a few secluded accommodations located along the coast.
• High seasons could drive up the prices of tours and accommodations.
• The town of Akyaka is often very crowded in the summer.

3. Mount Ararat

Believed to be the site where Noah’s Ark landed during the great flood, Mount Ararat is one of the best places to visit in Turkey in the summer. This place, consisting of two separate dormant volcanoes, is ideal to get some fresh air during the summer months, as its summits are snow-capped all year long. With an altitude of over 5,000 m, this is a perfect destination for hikers.

Major attractions: Cevirme village and Agri Dagi Milli Parki.

• This is an ideal place to escape the summer heat.
• During the summer, most of the snow covering the area melts down, making it way easier for hikers to climb the summits.
• The lack of rain in the summer will allow you to enjoy your trip without worrying about sudden downpours.
• You need a legal permit and a team of guides to climb Mount Ararat.
• It is a challenging hike and not suited for beginners.

Turkey offers a variety of summer destinations with their own pros and cons so you can choose according to your preferences.

Top activities during summer in Turkey

There are plenty of things to do in Turkey in the summer to beat the heat during your trip.

• Water sports: The favorable weather conditions and strong winds make summer the best season to try water activities in Turkey. One of the most popular areas for surfers is Alanya, especially Damlataş and Keykubat beaches. These sites are perfect for both beginners and expert surfers.
• A day at the hammam: After a sweaty day spent on visiting tourist sites, treat yourself to a hammam bath. Have a team of experts pamper you with traditional body scrubbing, foam washing, and massages. Some of the most luxurious hammams in Turkey can be found in Istanbul.
• Hiking: If you love to hike, you should not miss the Lycian Way during your Turkey tour. The 540 km-trail traverses a huge part of the Mediterranean coast, passing through secluded beaches and ancient cities, such as Xanthos and Phaselis. For a short journey, opt for the Pigeon Valley and Love Valley in Cappadocia. This trail is only 11 km-long, and will take you to the famous rock formation of the Love Valley as well as the citadel of Uchisar.

You will be spoilt for choices with these amazing activities on offer during your summer vacation in Turkey.

Travel tips to visit Turkey during summer

• Summer in Turkey can get very hot, so make sure to wear clothes made from natural fabric.
• Summer is also the high tourist season in Turkey, so the earlier you book your trip the better. This will help you get the best deal available.
• Learn some basic Turkish words, as most people here do not speak English.

Spending summer holidays in Turkey will surely be one of those experiences that you will cherish all your lifetime. Warm and dry weather conditions throughout the country offer plenty of destinations and activities for all travelers. From international cities full of historical and cultural sites such as Istanbul and Izmir, to natural beauty spots scattered all over the country like fairy chimneys of Cappadocia and travertines of Pamukkale, to the beautiful beaches of Antalya, there is a lot to see and experience in Turkey in summer.

Reach out to our local travel experts to plan a customized trip to Turkey .

Insider's Tip: Turkey's sun-kissed coastline stretches for thousands of kilometers, encompassing pristine beaches, picturesque coves, and turquoise waters that will leave you breathless. From the azure beauty of the Aegean and Mediterranean regions to the lesser-known gems along the Black Sea, the options are endless. Bodrum, Marmaris, Antalya, and Alanya are just a few coastal havens where you can indulge in beachside bliss, water sports, or simply bask in the sun. Explore the hidden coves on a boat tour, snorkel in vibrant underwater worlds, or unwind with a refreshing cocktail as you watch the sunset over the horizon. — Kadir Ismail Kuscu from Best Turkey Tour

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12 unmissable things to do in Turkey

Jan 3, 2022 • 8 min read

The landscape of Cappadocia and its horizon filled with hot air balloons is one of the most iconic sights in Turkey © Francesco Riccardo Iacomino / Getty Images

Whether your ideal vacation involves sunbathing on a Mediterranean beach , trekking in rugged mountains or learning more about the complex cultural layers laid down over thousands of years of history, Turkey has options to entice every kind of traveler. 

The country boasts an abundance of ancient sites and diverse natural landscapes, as well as lively cities, tantalizing food and opportunities for adventure. You'll never cover everything on just the one vacation but here’s our pick of the best things to do in Turkey to get you started.

Tour the ancient city of Ephesus

The well-preserved streets of Ephesus are lined with evidence of what daily life was like for the ancient Greeks and Romans who inhabited the city for hundreds of years: the remains of their shops and schools, temples and public toilets.

Highlights of the main site include the intricately carved facade of the Library of Celsus – once the third-largest library in the world – a huge open-air theater, a Roman bath and numerous monumental fountains and gates. Well worth the separate admission fee are the Terraced Houses . These luxurious residences belonged to the Roman elite and are full of mosaics, frescoes and marble worthy of an episode of “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous.”

Luxuriate in a Turkish bath

In the days when most homes lacked indoor plumbing, hamams (commonly referred to as Turkish baths in English) played a crucial role both as a place to get clean and to socialize. Today, they’re typically a special-occasion destination, more often frequented by tourists than locals, but still a luxury well worth indulging in.

The full treatment includes a scrub and massage by a same-gender attendant, but you can also opt to bathe yourself in their steamy chambers. With their marble-covered interiors and sky-lit domes, the grandest hamams – such as the Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamamı , the Cağaloğlu Hamamı and the Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı in Istanbul – are a treat for the eyes as well as the body. In the old Ottoman capital of Bursa, hamams like Eski Kaplıca and Yeni Kaplıca feature pools fed by the area’s natural thermal springs.

See Cappadocia from above and below

First thing in the morning, the skies above Cappadocia fill with hot-air balloons that take visitors floating above the area’s canyons, fairy chimneys and other fantastical rock formations. Even if you don’t fancy a flight, it’s worth getting up early to see the colorful aerial display from the ground. For a more, er, down-to-earth experience, follow labyrinthine tunnels many stories deep into underground cities such as Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı , where thousands of people took shelter from invaders for months at a time. In addition to living quarters, these subterranean settlements included facilities to stable animals, cook, worship and even make wine.

Feast on meze and fish

The “rakı-balık” night is a quintessential Turkish dining experience, particularly in Istanbul and along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. What some call the national drink of Turkey, rakı is a strong anise-flavoured liqueur typically mixed with water and ice, and balık is fish. Such meals typically start with an assortment of meze, which are often the real stars of the show.

These small dishes meant for sharing feature both classic and creative combinations of vegetables, herbs and seafood, often topped with yogurt or cooked in olive oil. If you do manage to save room for the main course, popular fish choices depending on the season include grilled levrek (sea bass) and çipura (sea bream), or lightly fried istavrit (mackerel), barbun (red mullet) and hamsi (anchovies).

Shop in colorful bazaars

Despite the proliferation of shopping malls and grocery stores, traditional bazaar culture remains strong in Turkey. Most historic centers will have at least one çarşı , a shopping arcade or maze-like marketplace district with vendors selling everything from cheap souvenirs to handmade leather or metal crafts. Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar (known as the Kapalı Çarşı, or “covered marketplace” in Turkish) is the most famous example, but ones in cities like Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa are more atmospheric and authentic.

Equally colorful and important to local life is the pazar , an open-air market for fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables and other food products, as well as clothing and household goods. Depending on the town or city neighborhood, they might be set up in the street under rigged-up tarps, in an emptied parking lot or garage, or in a purpose-built structure. Held in different areas on set days of the week, they’re cheap and lively places to buy staples or just browse. Some large pazars , like the weekly market in the resort town of Fethiye, feature stalls selling gözleme (stuffed flatbreads) and other simple dishes to sate hungry shoppers.

Admire architectural splendor in Istanbul

The rulers of the city formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople left their marks in grand style. The Hagia Sophia ’s soaring dome still leaves visitors awestruck a millennium and a half after its construction, while the towering Aqueduct of Valens and the vast subterranean Basilica Cistern attest to the impressive engineering feats that the Romans employed to supply the city and its residents with drinking water. 

With a prime position overlooking the confluence of the Bosphorus, Golden Horn and Marmara Sea, Topkapi Palace evokes the might of the Ottoman Empire at its peak: lavishly decorated chambers, a treasury dripping with massive jewels and a kitchen that could feed 4000 people. Istanbul’s minaret-studded skyline is a heritage of the Ottomans as well. The famous Blue Mosque gets the most attention, but visitors shouldn’t miss the tiny, tile-bedecked Rüstem Paşa Mosque and the graceful Süleymaniye Mosque , perched atop one of the old city’s seven hills. History buffs can really dig into the different cultural eras in Istanbul by exploring its wealth of museums detailing the fascinating legacy of the city .

Cruise turquoise waters on a gület

Few vacations are more relaxing than a multi-day cruise aboard a gület (traditional wooden yacht) plying sections of Turkey’s southwestern coastline between Bodrum and Antalya . While away the long, sunny days swimming in secluded coves, reading or playing tavla (backgammon) on deck, eating fresh-caught fish, drinking rakı as the sun sets and sleeping out under the stars. If you get tired of blissfully lazing around, you can hop ashore along the way to explore the ancient ruins of Knidos , climb to the top of the Crusader Castle in Kaleköy or stop for lunch at one of the cool cafe-restaurants in Kaş . 

Hike the Lycian Way

For a more active way to explore the Turquoise Coast, consider taking on part of the Lycian Way , a long-distance trekking path stretching 540 km (335 mi) from Fethiye to Antalya. Best traversed in spring or fall, the sometimes challenging trail winds along spectacular coastal cliffs, through bucolic villages and beach towns, past ancient ruins and up into the mountains.

Most sections have accommodation options in small pensions as well as camping. Highlights along the way include the secluded valley of Kabak , the long sandy beach of Patara , the massive rock tombs of Myra , the ruins of Olympos and the “ burning rock ” at Çıralı. If you want to see more of Turkey's incredible landscape on foot and escape the crowded tourist spots, extend your trip and spend some time exploring the country's stunning array of national parks .

See incredible Roman mosaics

Tiny colored cubes of glass, ceramic or stone were used during the Roman era to make amazingly detailed tableaux depicting mythological tales, heroic battles, lavish banquets and other scenes. Splendidly preserved examples of these mosaics, which often decorated the floors of grand palaces and villas, can today be found in numerous museums in Turkey, most notably the Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum , the Hatay Archaeology Museum and the Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum in Şanlıurfa.

Linger over a leisurely Turkish breakfast

It’s hard to think of a better way to fuel up for a big day of sightseeing than with a Turkish breakfast spread ( serpme kahvaltı ). Start with the savory nibbles: olives, cheeses, sliced tomatoes and cucumbers, perhaps some spicy pepper paste along with your eggs. Then satisfy your sweet tooth with homemade jams and a decadent swirl of honey and thick cream ( kaymak ). Different parts of the country have their own special additions: fresh herbs along the Aegean coast, cornmeal cooked with melted butter and cheese (called mıhlama or kuymak ) in the Black Sea region, and fermented cheese and hot peppers in Hatay. Endless small glasses of black tea are universal.

Watch the sunrise from atop Mt. Nemrut

The surreal sight at the summit of Nemrut Dağı is testament to both the extent of the power that can be wielded by a ruler and to its inevitable decline. In the 1st century BCE, a Hellenistic king had massive statues of deities, mythic beasts and other figures built on top of a rocky peak as a monument to his own greatness. Earthquakes over the centuries toppled the heads of these statues from their bodies and they now sit scattered around a stark, remote landscape. Tour groups typically bring visitors up here at sunrise or sunset, but if you stay overnight at one of the simple lodgings a little below the summit, you can experience both.

Imagine the beginnings of human civilization

Turkey is home to some of the world’s most important Neolithic sites , which are still yielding new insights – and questions – about how humans lived more than 10,000 years ago. In the center of the country near Konya, the excavations of Çatalhöyük have provided clues about early “urban” life, the period when people started to transition from nomadic ways to settled agrarian livelihoods. In the southeast outside of Şanlıurfa, the findings at the ritual complex of Göbeklitepe – thought to be the world’s first place of worship – have transformed our understanding of when humans began to develop religious beliefs and practices.

You might also like: Do you need a visa to go to Turkey? The 10 most incredible places to visit in Turkey How to drink Turkish coffee like a local

This article was first published Oct 12, 2021 and updated Jan 3, 2022.

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Home > 43 Best Cities In Turkey To Visit – 2024 List & Map

43 Best Cities In Turkey To Visit – 2024 List & Map

Written by our local expert Nicky

Nicky, originally from the UK, is now a local in Turkey. She moved to Marmaris, Türkiye for love 12 years ago and is now your Turkey travel planner.

Turkey is not just Istanbul; the fascinating country Türkiye has many cities worth your vacation time. I have been traveling to Turkey for 15 years and still have not seen them all.

That said, here is a list of the best cities in Turkey I loved, from the Aegean Coast to the Black Sea and everything in between. I list what you can see and do in each of the top cities – and why you should visit each one.

Here’s the combined list of cities in Türkiye, both in Turkish spelling and English spelling in brackets, sorted alphabetically:

1. Adana (Adana) 2. Alanya (Alanya) 3. Alaçatı (Alaçatı) 4. Amasya (Amasya) 5. Ankara (Ankara) 6. Antalya (Antalya) 7. Ayvalık (Ayvalık) 8. Bartin (Bartin) 9. Belek (Belek) 10. Bodrum (Bodrum) 11. Bursa (Bursa) 12. Ceşme (Ceşme) 13. Datça (Datça) 14. Diyarbakir (Diyarbakir) 15. Edirne (Edirne) 16. Eskisehir (Eskisehir) 17. Fethiye (Fethiye) 18. Gaziantep (Gaziantep) 19. Göreme (Göreme) 20. Isparta (Isparta) 21. Istanbul (Istanbul) 22. Izmir (Izmir) 23. Kahramanmaras (Kahramanmaras) 24. Kars (Kars) 25. Kaş (Kaş) 26. Kemer (Kemer) 27. Konya (Konya) 28. Kusadasi (Kusadasi) 29. Mardin (Mardin) 30. Marmaris (Marmaris) 31. Mersin (Mersin) 32. Nevşehir (Nevşehir) 33. Rize (Rize) 34. Safranbolu (Safranbolu) 35. Samsun (Samsun) 36. Sanliurfa (Sanliurfa) 37. Selçuk (Selçuk) 38. Trabzon (Trabzon) 39. Uludağ (Uludağ) 40. Van (Van) 41. Yalova (Yalova) 42. Çanakkale (Çanakkale) 43. Şırnak (Şırnak)

Türkiye is not just about beaches . Sure, the south coast is dotted with countless stunning clear-sea beaches, but if you assume that’s all Turkey is about, you’re missing out in a big, big way!

The authentic Turkish way of life is something every visitor should experience, and the single best way to do that is to head away from the beach resorts and visit a couple of cities in Türkiye.

You’ll experience the culture and traditions of ancient Turkish cities and enjoy the best cuisine. You’ll also see history in abundance.

Of course, Turkey is a big country, which means there are many urban places to visit in Türkiye . To help you figure out the best cities in Turkey to head to, let’s check out where to go in Türkiye for urban vibes, historical landmarks, and delicious cuisine.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Map Of The Best Cities In Turkey

1. Istanbul

Without a doubt, Istanbul is Türkiye’s most famous city, and not just because it straddles both Europe and Asia. Once known as the capital city of Constantinople, Istanbul is the busiest and largest city in Turkey. Of course, it’s not the capital city anymore, but that doesn’t stop millions of visitors from heading there yearly to experience that bustling Istanbul city life and sometimes mistaking it for the capital.

What to do in Istanbul:

• 🚢 Enjoy the city view with live music and stage performances on this cruise with private tables
• 🚶 Discover the Basilica Cistern beneath the streets of Istanbul with a guided tour
• 🕌 Enter the magnificent Hagia Sophia, which is the world’s largest place of worship, built by Emperor Justinian in 532 AD on this tour
• 🍲 Eat your way through Istanbul and sample Turkish delicacies with a guided tour of local favorite food spots
• 🏰 Skip the line and enter one of the most interesting museums of Turkey – Topkapi Palace and the Balkan Peninsula with this ticket

Istanbul is a city like no other and is undoubtedly one of the best Turkish cities.

Firstly, it’s the only major city in the world to straddle two continents; half of Istanbul is in Europe, and the other half is in Asia! You cross the Bosphorus , and you’re literally in another continent entirely. Cool, right?

The other reason people head to Istanbul is that it’s packed with history. The buildings in Istanbul will make your jaw drop, but there is plenty of modern-day architecture there, too. History, gastronomy, shopping , nightlife , you name it, you’ll find it. There’s far too much to mention here, so let’s summarize it.

What To See

Everything! The problem with Istanbul is that it’s so big and hectic. This is one of the biggest cities in Türkiye, Europe, and the world. That means you can’t get to see everything in the space of one visit.

So, you have to shortlist the must-visit spots for you. Everyone is different, but if I had to recommend a few places, I’d say Dolmabahce Palace , Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, Grand Bazaar, Basilica Cistern, and Topkapi Palace. All of those are among the top sights to see in Turkey.

Those are the most famous spots, but make sure you head to Taksim for shopping and nightlife, visit Cevahir Mall for major credit card shopping damage, and stop by Besiktas for some of the best (and cheapest) food around. Oh, and if you want a beachside vibe, head to upmarket Bebek for waterside chills and seafood.

You can go to Istanbul any time of year, but bear in mind that the heat can make the crowds very difficult to deal with during the summer months!

Istanbul doesn’t reach the scorching temperatures that the south coast hits. Still, it can be hot indeed, and during July and August, temperatures hit 30 or more regularly.

Winter is the most popular time to visit, and the potential for snow makes the landscapes simply beautiful.

However, Istanbul can be very cold and wet during the winter too. You have to put up with whatever weather Istanbul throws at you, but you’ll be so busy enjoying yourself that you won’t notice.

How To Get There

There are direct flights from almost all major cities via a range of airlines. If you’re already in Türkiye and want to head to Istanbul for a few days, you can take an internal flight with Sun Direct, Pegasus, or Turkish Airlines or take the bus.

Pamukkale and Kamil Koc are two of the most popular, but do remember that you’re looking at around 12 hours on the bus from the south coast to Istanbul compared to 1 hour on the plane!

• How To Get Around Istanbul
• Best Beaches Near Istanbul
• Our Favorite Hotels Near The Blue Mosque
• How To Spend 2 Days In Istanbul

Ankara is Turkey’s capital city, second largest city, and symbol of modern Turkey.

Located in the center of the country, this is where you’ll find the main government buildings, a large amount of history, and a very traditional vibe.

For those who want to experience authentic Turkish life and see one of the major cities in Türkiye , a visit to Ankara is a must.

Many tourists avoid Ankara and stick to Istanbul, but that’s a mistake because the capital is a great place to experience . This sophisticated modern city also has a fun side, and you’ll find some great restaurants and nightlife spots , too.

Without a doubt, a visit to Anitkabir is a must. This is the mausoleum of Ataturk. The founder of the Republic of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, was the first president of Türkiye.

It is enormous, so make sure you take time to appreciate its stunning beauty while also understanding that it is a bustling place too. When it comes to Turkish history, this is one of the best places in Türkiye to visit .

The other spots to head to are the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, Ankara Castle, and the beautiful Kocatepe Mosque. Don’t forget to make dinner reservations at Ankara Atakule, a massive communications tower with a top-quality restaurant – dinner with a view!

Book your private Ankara tour with a local here!

Ankara is another one of those famous cities in Turkey you can visit at any time, but during the winter months, you can expect snow, and sometimes lots of it.

The central part of Türkiye can become very cold during the winter, so perhaps the shoulder months of April and May or October and November would be a better option. The summer isn’t the wrong time to visit , but it can be pretty hot without any sea breeze to cool you down for many miles.

Ankara is connected to most major cities via direct flights, and even if you can’t get a direct flight, you can always fly to Istanbul and then connect via domestic flight.

Again, long-distance bus  networks within Turkey are an excellent way to get to the capital. Remember that the journey can be long – you’re looking at around 7 hours from Istanbul to Ankara.

Alternatively, consider taking the Istanbul to Ankara train !

• Epic Things To Do In Ankara
• Is Ankara Worth Visiting?
• How To Get From Istanbul To Ankara
• Istanbul Vs. Ankara – Comparison Guide

Izmir is often seen as Turkey’s second most modern city, which is home to a youthful vibe. 

Located in Western Turkey, with the blue Aegean Sea lapping at its shores , Izmir is a wonderful city to visit, and it has many beach resorts dotted around it too. If you’re looking for beach cities in Türkiye to see, this is a fantastic destination.

If you’re looking for shopping and nightlife, this is the place to visit after Istanbul. The city has a very young feel to it, and you’ll see students heading to universities around the city, dining out during the evenings, and enjoying time out with friends on weekends. The weather is also beautiful most of the year , and there are some vast shopping malls to splash the cash in.

Izmir, Turkey’s third largest city, is quite sprawling, but you should be sure to head to the seaside. Here, you can enjoy chilled-out days and evenings and even take a horse-drawn carriage ride!

The promenade doesn’t feel like it’s in the middle of a vast city at all, but just behind the beachside, you’ll find huge roads that spread all around the city’s reaches, to huge malls and beyond. There are countless places to eat, drink, and party, but if you want to shop here

d to the old bazaar, where you can haggle for your souvenirs .

Of course, Izmir Clock Tower , Konak Square, and Yali Mosque are all must-visit spots.

Anytime! Izmir is a fantastic city to visit year-round, although you should head there between May and October if you want to enjoy the beach. July and August are sweltering when temperatures can often hit 40 degrees, but even during the winter, the temperatures are generally relatively mild compared to many other places in Europe.

Direct flights from most cities head to Izmir all year round. From Istanbul , the flight time to Izmir is just 1 hour. Again, the coach network within Turkey will also get you to Izmir from many other cities.

• Is Izmir Worth Visiting?
• Luxury Hotels In Izmir
• Where To Stay In Izmir – Neighborhood Guide
• Nightlife In Izmir

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Konya is located in Central Anatolia and somewhat off the beaten track for many tourists.

However, that doesn’t mean it’s not an excellent spot to head to, and it’s also a common drop-off point for people visiting nearby Cappadocia .

Konya is perhaps most famous for being the former home of Rumi, the Persian poet, and you’ll also find the Mausoleum of Rumi in Konya.

While Konya is one of the most conservative towns in Türkiye compared to other tourist spots in Turkey, such as Izmir and Istanbul , that means you’ll get to see authentic traditions here, and that’s what travel is all about.

The Mausoleum of Rumi is a very popular spot, and it’s also fascinating to learn more about the whirling dervishes . Head to the Mevlana Museum to find out more, and you might also see a whirling dervish performance at the Mevlana Cultural Centre.

Another interesting spot is the Alaeddin Mosque, which is beautiful in design and surrounded by peaceful gardens atop a hill with stunning views over the city. The mosque dates back to the 12th century.

Of course, Konya is also home to fantastic cuisine. You should 100% head to traditional ocakbasi restaurants and seafood spots to enjoy some of the finest Turkish food you’ll ever taste.

Again, you can visit Konya anytime, but summers are hot, with cold and often wet winters. Significant snowfall can be seen during the winter , especially in December and January. April , May, September, and October are delightful months when it’s not too hot and there is far less rain.

Fly direct to Istanbul from most major cities and then connect to an internal flight to Konya with Pegasus or Turkish Airlines. The flight from Istanbul to Konya takes 1 hour and 10 minutes.

• How To Get From Istanbul To Konya
• Where To See The Whirling Dervishes In Konya

Bursa is a young and bustling university city that is also perfect for  winter skiing ! Bursa is around half an hour from the famous Uludag Mountain, which hosts some of the best winter sports in Türkiye. Even during the summer months, Bursa is a great place to head, and here, you’ll get to enjoy a more authentic experience compared to some of the more touristy cities.

Bursa, the fourth-largest city in Turkey, is famed for being the first capital of the Ottoman Empire and is now a green city with countless parks and open spaces, which is refreshing for a large city. Some charming small coastal towns also surround it, so you can easily extend your exploration a little.

Uludag Mountain is simply beautiful, and you should undoubtedly head there, even if you’re not considering skiing! During the summer, there are walking and climbing trails available. Uludag Teleferik is also considered the longest aerial tramway in Europe and will give you some fantastic views over the mountain range.

Check out the stunning Ulu Cami, or Great Mosque, which dates back to the 14th century. The mosque is beautiful in design, and it has 20 domes.

Of course, this being a large city, Bursa is also fantastic for shopping, with Korupark Shopping Centre considered one of the best.

If you want to ski, you should head to Bursa between November and the end of March. However, if skiing isn’t on your schedule, summer is an excellent time to visit the city. The city’s green looks stunning against the cloudless blue sky, and you can also head out to one of the small beach towns for a dip in the sea.

Bursa is just under 2 hours away from Istanbul by road (making it a great day trip from Istanbul !), so you can use the Pamukkale or Kamil Koc bus service to reach Bursa, having flown to Istanbul directly from most major cities.

• Your Guide To Bursa

Adana is located on the south coast, east of Antalya . Often overlooked by visitors looking for a beach break, this city is slightly more conservative than Antalya and other beach resorts . Still, it’s an excellent spot for those who want to enjoy a more authentic way of life.

Adana is located on the Seyhan River, and it is just inland. However, you can reach the warmth of the Mediterranean Sea in just over 15 minutes by car. You should undoubtedly check out many historical buildings around the area, but there are also many modern spots, such as busy cafes and restaurants.

The city is also the birthplace of the famous Adana kebab . It’s a bit spicy but nothing short of delicious; make sure you try the authentic recipe while you’re in the city. You must try this meat dish while in Turkey , which you’ll become instantly addicted to.

Be sure to wear your walking shoes, as Adana has plenty to see. Stone Bridge is a great starting point, a bridge built in Roman times and the beautiful Sabanci Merkez Mosque. The mosque has six minarets and sits in a stunning waterfront location.

On the other hand, City Park is a great place to enjoy a little people-watching, while Seyhan Dam is a pleasant spot to escape the city and enjoy peace. Ataturk Museum and Ataturk Park are also must-visits when in the area.

While there, the place to stop is the famous Roman-era harbor known as the “ancient harbor of Phaselis.”

Phaselis is an ancient Lycian city located in the province of Antalya . The city boasts three harbors: the Northern Harbor, the Battle Harbor, and the Protected (Sun) Harbor. Of these, the Northern Harbor was the most important during Roman times. The ruins of Phaselis offer a glimpse into its rich history, including Roman baths, agoras, and a theater, among other structures. The site is surrounded by beautiful beaches, making it a popular spot for its historical value and natural beauty.

Adana is an excellent spot to visit regardless of the time of year, although again, during the summer, it can be sweltering indeed. During the winter, you’ll find relatively mind temperatures but more in the way of rain. It’s not unusual to reach the high 30s regularly throughout the peak summer months.

Flying direct to Istanbul is the best option here, and as before, there are many direct flights to Istanbul from most cities. You can then connect via domestic flight, which will take 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Antalya is one of Türkiye’s most visited spots and one of Turkey’s best destinations. This is also where most tourists will head if they intend to stay in one of the Antalya Province beach resorts, such as Kas , Lara Beach, Alanya, Kemer, Side, etc. However, Antalya is a city in its own right , packed with history, beauty, and plentiful modern-day amenities.

Located along the Mediterranean coast, the city has soaring mountains to one side and the impossible blue of the sea to the other. It’s worth heading out to one of the smaller beach resorts during your stay, although Antalya has some beautiful beaches and incredible natural wonders within very close reach.

So, if you’re looking for the best place to holiday in Turkey with beaches, it doesn’t get much better than beautiful, sunny Antalya.

In the city itself, you’re spoiled for choice. Duden Waterfalls are just a few minutes from the airport, and the dramatic spill of the water down into the sea is something you have to see for yourself. It’s one of Türkiye’s most beautiful, unique places to visit.

Hadrian Castle Gate is another must-visit, as well as Antalya Castle and Kursunlu Waterfall. Of course, the beach – Konyaalti Beach is one of the most famous in the country, and it’s a must-visit for summer fun!

Antalya is also an excellent spot for nightlife, shopping, and food. You’ll find some fantastic restaurants around the city serving traditional and international dishes.

The good thing about Antalya is that it’s pretty mild all year round, although the heat does turn up during the summer months. If you want to swim in the sea, head to Antalya between May and the end of October.

However, remember that Antalya is one of the most visited cities in Turkey in summer , so crowds from June to September can be a problem. The temperatures are their hottest in July and August.

During the summer, the temperatures are very mild indeed, and although it can rain occasionally, your break is unlikely to be a washout.

There are direct flights to Antalya Airport from most cities throughout the summer months. However, during the winter, you may need to go via Istanbul. Flight time from Istanbul to Antalya is just 1 hour and 10 minutes.

• Bodrum Vs. Antalya
• Where To Stay In Antalya
• Is Antalya Worth Visiting?
• Kid-Friendly Resorts In Antalya

8. Gaziantep

For those adventurous travelers who want to explore a couple of off-the-beaten-track cities of Türkiye, Gaziantep is the perfect spot. This city is welcoming and beautiful, with natural beauty, history, and many traditions. The food here is nothing short of amazing, and you’ll leave with a genuine appreciation for Turkish cuisine .

Gaziantep is located in southeast Turkey, and it’s where pistachios are farmed. You’ll also hear it called ‘Antep.’ Packed with historic and beautiful old buildings, this part of Türkiye isn’t where most tourists tend to tread, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t.

The issue for most is that it is closer to the Syrian border than many other Turkish cities and resorts, but it isn’t an unsafe city by any means.

For those who want to explore a different side to what they probably know of Turkey, Gaziantep will help you uncover what you seek.

Head to the Gaziantep Archaeology Museum to learn more about the area and ancient times; many artifacts have been uncovered in this very historic part of the Türkiye .

Gaziantep Castle is a great starting point as this will show you the whole city before you; there is also an interesting military museum inside. Zeugma Mosaic Museum is another excellent spot to head to, especially if you’re trying to avoid the harsh summer sun.

Of course, most people will visit Gaziantep to learn about traditions and try some famous food . Known for its gastronomy, this is one of the best cities in Türkiye to visit for food . It’s here you can try the very best of Turkish cuisine . Meat kebabs here are something else entirely, and be sure to try lahmacun, meatballs, and ayran , too.

Gaziantep is very hot during the summer, and there is virtually no rain. During the winter, the temperatures drop suddenly, and the showers tend to arrive; however, there are often clear days in between. It’s not unusual to see an abundance of snowfall during the deepest winter days. Therefore, Gaziantep is best visited in April and May or perhaps late September into October.

A flight from Istanbul is your best option , like a bus from any significant Turkish city will take many hours. A flight from Istanbul will take just 1 hour 35 minutes.

• Reasons Gaziantep Is Worth Visiting

Located on the Black Sea Coast, Trabzon is an overlooked city but a huge hidden gem . In the northeast of the country, you’ll see a completely different way of life from the rest of the country, although you will also get to see more rain here than anywhere else!

Trabzon’s black sea beaches are stunning and much less crowded than the ones you’ll see packed out on the south coast. Paradise Beach is also the best spot for sunsets. The city is mainly known for its high, green mountains, beautiful scenery, and anchovies. Yes, you heard right; Trabzon is famous for hamsi, a type of anchovy that is highly famous throughout the country – be sure to try some as fresh as possible!

In short, for a combination of beautiful coastal scenery, beaches, cuisine, and fewer tourists, Trabzon is one of the best Turkish cities to visit.

We’ve just mentioned Paradise Beach, but be sure to head to the mountains and have a proper Turkish breakfast amongst stunning scenery. In the city itself, the Hagia Sofia (not that one, a different one) dates back to the Byzantine era and Cag Megarasi, a cave network that is open to the public. Sera Lake is also a beautiful spot for nature, with pedal boats and fantastic restaurants.

March to May and September to November are the best times to visit Trabzon. Outside those months, you’ll see high summers with a fair amount of rain and cold temperatures with rain during the winter. Snow isn’t unusual from late December into January. Humidity can be a problem during the summer in this part of the country.

A flight from Istanbul to Trabzon takes just 1 hour and 35 minutes.

• Your Guide To Trabzon
• Black Sea Resorts In Trabzon

10. Sanliurfa

Sanliurfa, often called ‘Urfa’ by locals, is in southeast Turkey and is a fantastic place to visit if you want to explore the history, food, and local way of life. Here, you’ll have a totally different experience than if you were visiting one of the beach resorts on the south coast, and you’ll meet wonderful locals who will be more than happy to teach you about local customs and culture.

Urfa is the birthplace of the Prophet Abraham and a city full of history and culture. It is also the former site of Edessa, the Byzantine city. You’ll find Gobeklitepe here, an archaeological site you can visit, checking out the neolithic monoliths that now have UNESCO World Heritage status .

In the center of Urfa, you’ll find some of the most delicious street food, and make sure you give cig kofte a try – the appearance might put you off, but it’s truly delicious and very healthy, too!

You’ll find unique architecture around the center of Urfa, and be sure to head to the Archaeological Museum to learn more about the area’s ancient history and Urfa castle.

In reality, Urfa is an all-year-round city to visit; however, during the summer months (particularly June and August), the temperatures are scorching, and it hardly rains. You’re looking at 40 degrees during this time quickly and often more. So, if you’re not a fan of heat, perhaps avoid this time and stick to the shoulder months, between May and June and late September into early November.

Winter times can be freezing, especially at night, and it often rains and possibly snows on high ground. However, early December and early February are still relatively mild, so these are good times to go .

You will need to take a domestic flight from Istanbul to Sanlifurfa, or you could opt for the bus, but this will take you multiple hours – around 17-22 hours on average.

Check Turkish Airlines and Pegasus for daily flights.

• Should You Visit Southeastern Turkey?

11. Fethiye

We may be cheating here because, strictly speaking, Fethiye is a large town and not a city, but it is growing at a fast rate, and you could argue it might as well have city status! It’s also a top spot to visit regardless of the month, and you’ll find relatively mild temperatures even during the winter.

Fethiye is located on the south coast, around an hour from Dalaman Airport.

you have plenty to see and do. This is the peak summer season, and beach time is a must. Olu Deniz is very close by , around 20 minutes away by road, and there you can see the famous Blue Lagoon and perhaps even check out paragliding – this is one of the best places on the planet for this rather hair-raising sport! It depends on when you’re going, but you have plenty to see and do if you’re visiting during the late spring and summer months.

Fethiye is also the start of the Lycian Way , so if you’re into walking and ancient ruins, this is a must for you. Saklikent Gorge is a beautiful spot during the summer months and will show you the very best of Mother Nature. Xanthos is a stone’s throw away, too – one of Turkey’s most famous archaeological sites with plenty of history and ruins to check out.

In Fethiye , the beautiful natural harbor is a gorgeous place to walk and grab a coffee; you can also take a boat trip or watch the stylish boats come and go.

To get the best out of your visit, head to Fethiye between April and the end of October; however, remember that July and August are when temperatures soar, and there are likely to be more crowds at that time, too. June is beautiful as it’s not too hot yet, and the crowds aren’t quite at their highest point. However, the end of September and the beginning of October are also pleasant.

In winter, temperatures are relatively mild, except for January, when it rains and gets quite cold . However, during the winter, you’ll also find that the tourist attractions and spots are all closed until the end of April.

You can find direct flights to Dalaman Airport from most locations during the summer months, and during the winter, you can fly to Istanbul and then take a domestic flight down to Dalaman from there.

It is around one hour by road from Dalaman to Fethiye, and there are regular buses and transfers to take you there and back.

• Where To Stay In Fethiye
• Best Beaches In Fethiye
• All-Inclusive Options In Fethiye
• Getting From Istanbul To Fethiye

Edirne is located in northwest Türkiye, right on the border with Bulgaria . This is a beautiful city that is lined with essential and impressive architecture. Once the Ottoman Empire capital, this is where Mehmet II launched his offensive to conquer Constantinople (nowadays Istanbul).

Simply walking around the city is a joy, with plenty of old buildings and architectural types to spot. However, Selimye Mosque is a must-visit spot ; the architecture here will bring tears to your eyes, such is its beauty, and it’s also famed as one of the most beautiful historic mosques designed by Sinan, the famous architect from Ottoman times.

Because Edirne was such an important city during the Ottoman Empire, you’ll see countless buildings and historical monuments to check out. The Old Town is undoubtedly a spot to explore, and you can taste local delicacies here too. The waterside area is also beautiful, especially during the spring and summer.

You should also think about hiring a car and getting out into the local countryside as there are some amazing spots to visit, with colorful fields of sunflowers and grapevines. Iğneada Floodplain Forests National Park and Kurşunlugerme Aqueduct should also be on your visit list.

It’s possible to visit Edirne at any time of the year; however, remember that December and January are pretty cold, and it can rain quite a lot at this time of year.

The peak summer months of July and August are pretty hot here, but not as hot as on the south coast, so perhaps June to early July and September and October would be good choices for you.

How To Get There  

If you are visiting from Bulgaria, you will cross the border (known as Kapıkule on the Turkish side), and then the city center is around half an hour away by road. Check out visa requirements for your country of origin if you plan to do this.

The other option is to fly into Istanbul and then take the bus to Edirne, which is around 3.5 hours by road.  It makes for a great day trip from Istanbul !

Located on the southwest coast, the resort city of Bodrum has become a glittering destination for the rich and famous over the last few years. Still, even if you’re not swimming in cash, this town is a stunning place to visit during the summer months in particular.

Bodrum Castle and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology are must-visits in the area, and the views from the castle are stunning.

The promenade is a great spot to enjoy a romantic walk and definitely a top spot for sunsets.

Bodrum is known for its food, and some amazing restaurants are around the area. The most expensive are around the waterfront, but if you head back a little, you’ll find the smaller restaurants that locals visit, offering cheaper prices and more authentic food.

Bitez Beach is the place to go for beach time, with plenty of opportunities to laze on the sand. You can enjoy watersports, and there are many dive spots around Bodrum, with some for beginners, going all the way up to more experienced areas to see some of the most diverse marine life.

While Bodrum is a year-round destination in some ways, it’s more of a summer spot. In the winter months, many of the tourist bars and restaurants will close until the following April, and while some places stay open 12 months of the year, it’s more limited.

The weather is amazing during the summer , but if you’re not into extremely high temperatures and have zero chance of rain, avoid the end of June to the beginning of September. May and the end of September into October are delightful times to visit, with still very warm temperatures but less humidity and fewer crowds.

Bodrum has its own airport, accepting international and domestic flights. The city is also connected to the rest of the country via long-distance buses, and it is only a 3-hour drive from Izmir.

• Where To Stay In Bodrum
• Marmaris Vs. Bodrum
• Best Beach Resorts In Bodrum
• Best Restaurants In Bodrum

14. Canakkale

Many people think that the Battle of Troy took place in Greece, and back in those days, it did. However, that area is the Turkish mainland, known as the city of Canakkale.

If you saw the film Troy with Eric Bana, Orlando Bloom, and Brad Pitt, you’ll have seen the famous wooden Trojan horse – that can be seen in Canakkale. It’s a major pull for tourists, but the area is beautiful regardless of that. Lapped by the waters of the Aegean, Canakkale offers a beach town feel with a more traditional vibe.

The Museum of Troy and the famous Trojan Horse are top spots to visit in Canakkale, but there’s more to it than that. Cimenlik Castle offers impressive views and plenty of history to explore. At the same time, Akbas Cemetery is a sad place to visit and reflect on the bloody history that has marred the area.

If you want beach time, head to Kabatepe Beach or Mitos Beach.

You can visit any time to explore the history of the area, but if you want beach time, it’s best to visit between May and October.

Canakkale is a bus ride away from Istanbul, with the journey taking around 3 hours and 40 minutes. You can drive by following the E84 and O-6 roads.

• Must-See Landmarks In Turkey

15. Kusadasi

Kusadasi is a port city close to Izmir on the west coast of Turkey, lapped by the warm waters of the Aegean Sea. The two locations are only around an hour’s drive away from one another, which makes it a great place to visit for locals on weekends or public holidays.

Kusadasi is known for its British-style entertainment, and countless large hotels are available for summer fun. However, it also offers a more local vibe if you head away from the main beach area.

Kusadasi Castle is a must-visit, which sits just off the mainland and is connected by a walkway. The views are amazing, and you can learn a lot about the area’s history too.

Of course, you might be after beach time, and in that case, Ladies Beach is the famous spot to head to. This golden sand beach is wide and sweeping; it’s ideal for families.

Families will also enjoy Adaland, a huge water park , or you could head off shopping at Kusadasi Market.

Kusadasi all but closes down during the winter months, and while some things remain open for locals, you won’t get to explore much of the area. It’s best to visit between the end of April and the middle of October when the weather is warm and everything is open for the summer months. However, avoid July and August if you don’t like extreme heat.

The best way to get to Kusadasi is to fly into Izmir Airport and then take a transfer or bus, which should last for just over one hour.

• Best Beaches In Kusadasi

Belek is a beach town in the Antalya region on the Mediterranean coastline. It’s a famous spot for amazing beaches, but it’s also known for golf courses and thermal spas. Belek is quite upmarket and small; however, during the summer months, it gets hectic.

There are many historical sites around Belek, including Aspendos and Perge.

• Families will enjoy the Land of Legends Theme Park , packed with rides and attractions. There is also a nearby waterpark called Troy.
• Belek Clock Tower is a famous and well-photographed spot. However, the area is primarily famous for its golf courses and beaches.
• Carya Golf Course and Cornelia Golf Club are two of the most notable; however, The Montgomerie Maxx Royale Golf Club is another that is extremely exclusive. If you’re into beaches, make sure you head to Kadriye Beach. History lovers should undoubtedly check out Aspendos, with its huge amphitheater.

Belek is a summer destination, and you won’t really get much of an experience if you visit in the winter months. For the best of the weather, I recommend May and June and the end of September into October. The Antalya region’s summer season lasts slightly longer than the rest of the coastline, often stretching into mid-November.

July and August bring scorching temperatures with high humidity and large crowds.

The best way to get to Belek is to fly to Antalya Airport and then take a bus or private transfer. The journey takes around 40 minutes, depending on traffic.

17. Diyarbakir

Diyarbakir is a little off the beaten track for most visitors to Turkey, but it’s an area that’s rich in culture and traditions while offering some of the best food in the country.

Located in the southeast, Diyarbakir is the largest city in that region of Turkey and is famous for its ancient city walls and exceptional natural sights.

The city walls and Diyarbakir Grand Mosque are two of the most famous sights to see, but the Cahit Sıtkı Tarancı Museum is also a great spot to visit.

You can shop around the city and find some great bargains, and also make sure that you try some of the local food as it’s some of the tastiest you’ll find in the whole of Turkey.

Diyarbakir Castle is a great place to explore history and take fantastic photographs, but if you’re craving high-street shopping, head to Forum Diyarbakir or Ninova Park Shopping Centre.

Diyarbakir isn’t a beach town, so it’s best to avoid it during the peak summer months, as the temperatures can get extremely hot without any relief from a sea breeze. The winter months can be very harsh, and snowfall isn’t rare. Therefore, I’d recommend visiting during the spring or fall months, with April, May, October, and November as good times to go.

Diyarbakir has its own airport; however, most flights will go via Istanbul. You can fly into either Sabiha Gokcen Airport on the Asian side of Istanbul or the Istanbul Airport on the European side. From there, take a domestic flight to Diyarbakir Airport, which should take around 1 hour and 50 minutes.

Driving or going by bus isn’t the best idea unless you have a lot of time. The journey from Istanbul to Diyarbakir by road can take around 15 hours.

• Hidden Gems In Turkey

18. Marmaris

Marmaris is a very popular coastal town in the Mugla region . Surrounded by many villages and lots of beautiful countryside, Marmaris is a stunning mixture of blue and green, and during the summer months, it’s extremely busy, often with British and Scandinavian tourists.

However, over the last few years, Marmaris has become more of a domestic tourist spot, which means a more authentic experience if you venture off the main beachfront.

Spending time on the beach is a must-do, and Uzunyali Beach is a long and golden stretch that is backed by countless hotels, bars, and restaurants. Your sun lounger and parasol will be free if you purchase food and drinks from the bar or restaurant to which part of the beach belongs. However, I recommend heading to Icmeler Beach instead. This is just a ten-minute taxi drive away and offers a more chilled-out experience, with a wider beach area and a safer spot for children to roam away from the main road.

You can also take a boat trip around the bay, stopping at several islands and enjoying the stunning scenery. Jeep safaris head into the countryside, allowing you to visit small villages and take in sweeping views. Marmaris Castle is another must-visit while haggling at the Grand Bazaar , which will give you plenty of bargains to return home.

During the peak summer months between the middle of June and the middle of September, Marmaris is HOT. There is zero chance of rain, and temperatures often hit 40 degrees or more. However, May and the start of June and the middle of September to the end of October are great times to visit, with still very warm days, cooler evenings, and fewer crowds.

Marmaris is very quiet during the winter months, and while some places do stay open, it’s more of a summer destination if you want the full experience.

You can fly to Dalaman Airport from most European cities during the summer months or from Istanbul on a domestic flight. The transfer time from Dalaman to Marmaris is 1 hour 30 minutes, and you can take the local Havas Bus or a shuttle/private transfer.

• Marmaris City Guide
• Beautiful Beaches In Marmaris
• Best Restaurants In Marmaris
• Marmaris Vs. Antalya – Comparison Guide
• Marmaris Vs. Bodrum – Comparison Guide

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Cesme is a charming seaside town located on the western tip of Turkey’s Izmir Province. Known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and historic architecture, Cesme attracts a mix of international and local tourists seeking relaxation and cultural experiences.

This town boasts a vibrant atmosphere, especially during the summer months, with its lively waterfront, marina, and bustling night markets. Despite its popularity, Cesme has managed to maintain an authentic Turkish charm, with narrow cobblestone streets, traditional eateries, and local shops offering a genuine glimpse into Turkish coastal life.

A visit to Cesme wouldn’t be complete without spending time at its famed beaches. Ilıca Beach is particularly popular for its expansive stretches of soft, white sand and thermal springs, which are believed to have healing properties. Another must-visit is Alacati, a nearby town known for its windmills and stone houses and as a hotspot for windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts due to its ideal wind conditions.

Exploring the Cesme Castle is also highly recommended. This 16th-century fortress now houses a museum that showcases the town’s history and offers panoramic views of Cesme and the Aegean Sea . For a unique experience, take a day trip to the Greek island of Chios, just a short ferry ride away, to enjoy its distinct culture and landscapes.

Shopping in the local markets and bazaars is a great way to find unique souvenirs, from handmade crafts to traditional Turkish textiles. The cuisine in Cesme is not to be missed, with an abundance of fresh seafood, local specialties, and Aegean dishes that reflect the region’s rich culinary heritage.

The best time to visit Cesme is from late spring to early autumn, between May and October, when the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for beach activities and exploring. July and August are the peak tourist months, so visiting in the shoulder months of May, June, September, or October can offer a more serene experience with milder weather and fewer crowds.

Cesme is quieter in the winter months, but its mild climate still makes it a pleasant destination for those looking to escape the cold.

The nearest airport to Cesme is Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport, which serves both international and domestic flights. Cesme is approximately an hour’s drive away from the airport. There are regular bus services and shuttle transfers available, providing convenient access to the town. For those looking for a more scenic route, renting a car allows for stops along the beautiful Aegean coastline.

• Where To Stay In Cesme

Van is an enchanting city situated in the eastern part of Turkey, renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning natural landscapes. Nestled on the shores of Lake Van, the largest lake in Turkey, this city is a gateway to exploring ancient Armenian ruins, traditional Kurdish villages, and breathtaking scenery. Van’s unique location, surrounded by rugged mountains and vast plains, makes it a fascinating destination for adventurers, history buffs, and those looking to experience the diversity of Turkey’s eastern regions.

Exploring the historic Van Castle is a must-do for any visitor. This ancient fortress, built by the Urartians in the 9th century BC, offers spectacular views of Lake Van and the city. The site also includes the old town of Van, which was tragically destroyed during World War I, adding a poignant layer to its rich history.

A visit to the Holy Cross Church on Akdamar Island is another highlight. This medieval Armenian church is adorned with intricate carvings and is accessible by a short boat ride on Lake Van, providing a peaceful retreat with stunning views.

For nature enthusiasts, a trip to the Muradiye Waterfalls and the Nemrut Crater Lake, located within a couple of hours’ drive from Van, offers the chance to see some of Turkey’s most beautiful natural wonders . Birdwatching is also a popular activity around Lake Van, which is a stopover for migratory birds.

The city’s bazaars are vibrant and bustling, offering an array of Kurdish textiles, traditional crafts, and the famous Van breakfast, renowned across Turkey for its variety and richness, including local cheeses, honey, and herbs.

The best time to visit Van is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months, when the weather is mild and the natural landscapes are particularly beautiful. These seasons are ideal for exploring historical sites and taking part in outdoor activities without the extreme temperatures of summer and winter.

Van experiences harsh winters with heavy snowfall, which can add a magical touch to the city’s historical sites but might limit access to some attractions.

Van is served by Van Ferit Melen Airport, offering domestic flights from major Turkish cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. The city is also well-connected by road and rail, with bus and train services available from various parts of Turkey. Once in Van, local transportation options such as buses, taxis, and car rentals make it easy to explore the city and its surrounding attractions.

21. Eskisehir

Eskisehir, a vibrant university city located in the northwestern part of Turkey, blends a rich historical heritage with modern-day cultural dynamism. Known for its lively student population, Eskisehir is a hub of creativity, entertainment, and innovation. The city is distinguished by its unique geographical features, including the Porsuk River, which meanders through the city, offering charming canal views reminiscent of some European cities. With its parks, museums, and cultural sites, Eskisehir appeals to a wide range of interests, from history enthusiasts to nature lovers and art aficionados.

One of the city’s most iconic attractions is the Odunpazari Modern Museum (OMM), which showcases contemporary art within a stunning architectural masterpiece. The museum’s collection and exhibitions offer a fascinating glimpse into modern and contemporary art, both Turkish and international.

The historical district of Odunpazari itself is worth exploring for its beautifully preserved Ottoman-era houses, now repurposed as cafes, shops, and boutique hotels, offering a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely stroll.

For a touch of nature and relaxation, Kent Park and Sazova Park are perfect destinations. Kent Park features a large artificial beach and green spaces ideal for picnics. At the same time, Sazova Park, also known as Science, Art, and Culture Park, combines a fairy tale castle, pirate ship, and space house with scientific and cultural exhibits, making it a hit with families.

A cruise on the Porsuk River provides a unique perspective of the city, with several companies offering boat tours that navigate through Eskisehir’s heart, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere from the water.

Eskisehir is delightful to visit in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months when the weather is pleasant, and the city’s parks and gardens are in full bloom. These seasons offer the ideal climate for exploring the city on foot, enjoying outdoor cafes, and participating in various festivals and events.

The summer months (July and August) can be pretty warm, but the city’s numerous shaded parks and river breezes provide ample opportunities to cool off. Winters are cold and sometimes snowy, offering a different charm as the city takes on a serene, picturesque quality.

Eskisehir is well-connected to the rest of Turkey by road and rail, making it easily accessible for visitors. The city’s train station is a major hub for high-speed trains, offering quick and convenient connections to Ankara, Istanbul, and Konya.

For those preferring to drive, Eskisehir is located between Istanbul and Ankara, with well-maintained highways making the journey comfortable and scenic.

Although Eskisehir does not have its own airport, the nearby airports in Ankara and Istanbul provide good alternatives for international and domestic flights, with bus and train services available for the final leg to Eskisehir.

• Best Cities To Visit Near Istanbul

Turkey Travel FAQs About Turkish Cities

What are the best turkish cities to see on my first trip to turkey.

For your first trip to Turkey, some of the best cities to visit are Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, and Pamukkale , each offering unique experiences and historical landmarks. 

What famous cities in Turkey should I see?

Some famous cities of Turkey that you should consider visiting are Istanbul, Ankara, Antalya, Izmir, and Bursa, each with its own cultural and historical significance.

How do you pick which cities in Turkey to visit?

When deciding which cities to visit in Turkey, consider your interests, whether you prefer history, beaches, architecture, or natural landscapes. Also, plan your Turkey itinerary based on the duration of your trip.

What cities of Turkey are the most populated?

Istanbul is the most populated city in Turkey, followed by Ankara, Izmir, and Bursa.

What are famous cities in Turkey from the past?

Some famous cities in Turkey from the past include Ephesus, Troy, Pergamon, and Hierapolis , which are ancient historical sites with rich archaeological heritage.

Cities in Turkey to visit with kids?

Antalya, Bodrum, and Side are great cities in Turkey to visit with kids, offering family-friendly attractions and beautiful beaches.

Tourist cities in Turkey that have to be seen at least once?

Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Pamukkale are tourist cities in Turkey that are must-visit destinations, offering unique experiences and breathtaking sights.

What towns in Turkey are the best?

Some of the best towns in Turkey to visit are Alaçatı , Kas, Safranbolu, and Fethiye, known for their charm, history, and natural beauty.

What are the best cities to visit in Turkey as a family?

Antalya, Izmir, and Bodrum are excellent cities to visit in Turkey as a family, offering various family-friendly activities and accommodations.

Most beautiful cities in Turkey?

Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Fethiye are often considered among the most beautiful cities in Turkey , each boasting unique landscapes and cultural richness.

What are the important cities in Turkey from the Ottoman era?

Istanbul, Bursa, and Edirne are important cities in Turkey from the Ottoman era, playing significant roles in the empire’s history and architecture.

Best cities in Turkey to visit solo?

Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara are great cities in Turkey to visit solo , offering vibrant urban environments, cultural experiences, and plenty of major attractions.

Famous Turkish cities from history?

Ephesus, Troy, and Pergamon are famous Turkish cities from history, known for their archaeological significance and ties to ancient civilizations.

• The Do’s And Don’ts Of Visiting Turkey
• Best Places To Visit In Turkey For Every Type Of Traveler
• Best Beaches To Visit In Turkey
• Ephesus, UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Why Winter In Turkey Is A Good Idea
• Guide To Hiking The Lycian Way
• Discover Aydin City & Province
• Honeymoons In Turkey – Where To Go & What To Do

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Istanbul Clues

Istanbul Tour Guide

BEST Holiday Destinations in Turkey (Updated → 2024)

29 November 2023 by Serhat Engül

Turkey is one of the most ideal places for holiday thanks to its climate and geographical position. Turkey is a peninsula surrounded by seas and there are a lot of wonderful holiday spots. In this article, you can find information on the best holiday destinations in Turkey on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts.

Of course, Turkish tourists are not the only ones flooding the beaches in the Aegean and Mediterranean region. Especially, people residing in countries like Holland, Sweden, and Norway long for the sea and nice beaches. Therefore, they choose Turkey for their holiday.

The strong position of the currencies these visitors use in their native countries compared to Turkish lira is also a deciding factor in choosing Turkey. As destinations like Spain, Italy, France, and Greece use Euro as their currency, the same holiday can be a lot cheaper in Turkey.

Table of Contents

Best Holiday Destinations in Turkey 2024

In Best Holiday Destinations in Turkey for 2024 article, we will introduce the most beautiful summer holiday destinations on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. The holiday destinations on the list offer good options for both couples and families.

The most preferred cities for the summer holidays in Turkey, respectively, Izmir, Antalya, Mugla, Canakkale and Balikesir. The holiday towns on our list are also located in these provinces.

About Izmir

Izmir stands out with the city’s natural beauty and the warmth of its people. Additionally, it’s close to various holiday towns. Below you can find the most popular holiday towns of Izmir. (Cesme, Alacati and Foca)

Cesme is the most well known and popular holiday town in Izmir thanks to its clear and shallow sea and vibrant nights. Below are the places that are definitely worth seeing in Cesme.

Ilica Beach: It’s one of the most famous beaches in Cesme. The sea is clear and shallow here and it’s a blue flag beach. Moreover, it is thermal water. Therefore, it’s a highly popular place among tourists.

Aya Yorgi Bay: The sea is calm at Aya Yorgi and there is no wind here. There are a lot of beaches here to swim such as Kafe Pi Beach, Sole & Mare Beach, Babylon Aya Yorgi, Paparazzi Beach and Tren Aya Yorgi Beach Club.

Agathonisi: It’s a Greek Island that is one hour away from Cesme via the sea. It’s called Esek Adasi (translated as Donkey Island into English) due to the fact that donkey population increased in time and these donkeys were left on this island. The sea here is clear and it’s suitable for water sports too.

Dalyan: It’s both in nature and it offers a calm and peaceful holiday. Its sea is clear and it boasts an amazing beach. Dalyan is one of the best destinations to swim in the sea.

Ciftlikkoy: Ciftlikkoy is known as “the Maldives of Turkey” thanks to its famous beaches such as Altinkum and Pirlanta. Its golden beaches and clear sea are flooded with tourists.

Cesme Castle: It stands out with its architecture and history.

Cesme Museum: The historical richness of the region is reflected in this museum.

Alacati is one of the most beautiful districts in Izmir. In recent years, it has become one of the most popular holiday destinations in Turkey. Some of the places worth visiting in Alacati are below.

Houses in Alacati: The houses in Alacati are the center of attention with their colorful windows, doors, and streets filled with flowers. It’s especially popular among photography lovers.

Cark Beach: It’s the favorite place of surf lovers. There are schools for windsurfing at this beach too. You can reach Cark Beach from Alacati by a minibus.

Windmills: These windmills were built in the center in the 1800s.

Alacati Bazaar: This bazaar is set on every Saturday where you can find everything, be it organic vegetables, fruits or hand-made ornaments.

Foca (Focha) is divided into two as New Foca and Old Foca.

Old Foca is preferred because of its fisher boats by the coast, seaside restaurants as well as adorable and quiet atmosphere that the entertainment areas create.

On the other hand, New Foca offers more options in terms of beach, nightlife and accommodation options. It is a good choice if you wish to have a lively holiday.

About Antalya

Antalya is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Turkey and it has an important place in Turkey’s tourism. Below are the places that must be visited in Antalya. (Kas, Olimpos, Kemer and Kalkan)

Kas is the best holiday town in Antalya. Despite the chaotic atmosphere in the region, it still remains untouched. Thanks to its amazing beaches and modest boutique hotels, it is far from noise. Therefore, it offers a really peaceful atmosphere.

As it’s in a protected area, you can’t find the huge holiday resorts you can see in Antalya. However, boutique hotels are magnificent in Kas.

Olimpos is where the history and the sea meet and it’s also ideal for camping. You can also stay at one of the wooden houses here.

If you like sports, you can enjoy trekking, diving, rock climbing, and canoe in Olympos. You can also parachute from Tahtali Mountain.

Kemer is rich in terms of beaches. Some of the beaches in Kemer are Ayisigi, Goynuk, Adrasan, Cirali. These beaches are surrounded by pine trees and the white sand on this beaches are equally amazing. Therefore, they are world-famous beaches.

Apart from the beaches in Kemer, you should also visit Tahtali Mountain, Yanartas, Beldibi Cave, Goynuk Canyon, and Ucoluk Plateau.

Kalkan is famous for its beaches. The 16-km long Patara Beach in Kalkan is one of the longest beaches in the world. Kaputaj Beach is another great beach in Kalkan.

Additionally, you can swim in its blue flag beaches via daily boat tour. Moreover, the view Kalkan offers is undisputable too.

About Mugla

Mugla is famous for its holiday resorts and it has an important place in Turkish tourism industry. It is regarded as one of the best holiday destinations in Turkey. Below are the holiday destinations that are definitely worth seeing in Mugla. (Bodrum, Fethiye, Marmaris and Datca)

Bodrum boasts more than 60 blue flag beaches. The best places to swim are Kargacik Bay, Bitez Beach, Karaincir Beach, Akyarlar, Peksimet, and Gumusluk in Bodrum.

Apart from its beaches, Bodrum Castle, Gumusluk, Golturbuklu, Bodrum Marina, Bodrum Ancient Theater are equally worth visiting.

Fethiye is one of the first places that comes to mind when it comes to the best places for a holiday in Turkey. Its natural beauty, history and unique sea make it an attractive holiday spot.

You can swim in various beautiful bays via a day-long boat tour. Kabak Bay, Butterfly Valley , Dead Sea, and Calis Beach are the places that must be visited.

Especially the Dead Sea (Oludeniz) is one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. It’s a fascinating blue flag beach with its turquoise colored sea. Moreover, you can try paragliding on Babadag too.

Oludeniz Beach and nearby town is definitely one of the most photographed places in Turkey . Taking photos of parachutes over the Oludeniz Beach is amazing!

10 Marmaris

Marmaris is surrounded by forests and it draws attention with its clean beaches and historical artifacts. Tourists show great interest in Icmeler, Cleopatra, Cennet Island, Uzunyali, Turunc, Ciftlik Island, and Kizkumu Beach.

You can swim at numerous bays via a daily boat tour. Moreover, waterparks in Marmaris are ideal for families with children that want to have a great time. Marmaris Castle, Halici Ahmet Urkay Museum, Selimiye, Hisaronu, Loryma Ancient city are also among the places worth seeing.

Datca definitely needs to be on this list as it’s at a meeting point of the Aegean and Mediterranean region. There are countless beautiful beaches that you can visit in Datca. The most famous of them are Hayitbuku, Ovabuku, Palamutbuku beaches, Kargi Bay, and Mesudiye Bay.

Other places worth visiting are Resadiye, Datca Port, Kizilan Windmills, Kent Park, Knidos Ancient City, and Old Datca. It’s definitely one of the best places to go for summer holiday in Turkey.

About Canakkale

Canakkale, is situated in the northwest of Turkey. Canakkale is the closest holiday city to Istanbul on the list of best holiday destinations in Turkey. We added only one place from Canakkale to our list, and that is Assos, where history and the sea meet.

If you want both a nice sea and quietness, Assos is the place you are looking for. You can swim at Ancient Port beach, Kadirga Bay, Yesil Port, Koruoba, Sivrice, Sokakagzi, and Babakale Akliman Bay.

Behramkale, Assos Ancient City, and Temple of Athena are the places worth visiting.

If you love camping, you can find camping sites in the area too. Moreover, if you like scuba diving, it’s suitable for it and you can also find a diving school here.

You can see the best holiday destinations in Turkey on the West and South sides of the above map. Many of the titles in the article are found in the cities of Izmir on the Aegean coast and Antalya on the Mediterranean coast.

In this article, we reviewed the places to go for a sea-sand-sun holiday in Turkey. If you want to expand the circle on this subject, you can also take a look at the article on the best beaches in Turkey .

On the other hand, there are many historical cities besides the popular destinations for summer vacation in Turkey. If you want to see them in a separate list, the historical places in Turkey article may also be of interest to you.

About Serhat Engül

Hello explorer of Istanbul! This is Serhat Engul. I am a licensed TOUR GUIDE IN ISTANBUL. I offer PRIVATE HALF DAY TOUR which includes a visit to the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Basilica Cistern and the Spice Bazaar. This is a fantastic option to see some of the ICONIC LANDMARKS in the whole of Istanbul and you’ll receive plenty of background information on each location to enlighten you. You may see the details of this tour on the HOMEPAGE of the blog. I wish you a wonderful trip!

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Istanbul Travel Guide

Istanbul Clues travel guide is designed to introduce you to the history, museums, restaurants and culture of istanbul.

Private Tour Guide in Istanbul

Author of this blog, Serhat Engul, is a licensed tour guide based in Istanbul.

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• May 10, 2022

15 Best Places to Visit in Turkey (Türkiye) | The Ultimate List

Updated: Sep 13, 2023

If you want a chill beach vacation, an adventurous holiday, or a vacation full of culture and history, Turkey is the place to be! Turkey has beaches, mountains, beautiful cities, and amazing weather, which is why it is the favorite travel destination of many people. The country has a rich history which saw many civilizations and empires thrive at different times. It was officially established as an independent country in 1923 and has a population of about 85 million people as of this year (2022). We found the people in Turkey to be very caring overall and it was clear that they wanted us to feel welcome everywhere we went. In this article we will highlight the 15 best places to visit in Turkey!

Check out our video about Turkey to get a sense of what it's like there.

The best places to visit in Turkey

We recommend visiting Turkey for at least two to three weeks. This will give you enough time to visit the places we're going to mention in this article, but if you want to see more places you might have to add a couple of days. We also recommend visiting Turkey during the late spring or early fall because the weather is just perfect at that time and there are less crowds.

Table of Contents:

Köprülü Canyon

Olympos National Park

Lake Eğirdir

Green Canyon

15. Istanbul: A BUSTLING place to visit in Turkey

Istanbul is located in the northwest of Turkey and is the largest city in the country. It’s not the capital city of Turkey, but is known as the country’s economic, cultural and historic center. It is one of the 10 most visited cities in the entire world for a reason. Its history goes back to 5,500 BC and was a world hub of trade and commerce during the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods. On the “Golden Horn”, you can find historical structures such as the Hagia Sophia, which was built about 1,500 years ago and changed architecture forever around the world. In addition, you can soak in the best Istanbul view from the Galata Tower, marvel at the Ottoman architecture in the Topkapi Palace, or shop at the Grand & Spice Bazaar. One of the things we enjoyed most in this bustling city was the Turkish cuisine. If you want to enjoy the Turkish cuisine as much as we did, we highly suggest doing a food tour in Istanbul . Try to stay at least 3 to 5 days in this bustling city to be able to enjoy the many things to do.

14. Köprülü Canyon: Adventure in Turkey

At number14 we have the Köprülü Canyon. This canyon is a National Park in the Province of Antalya, located about 100 kilometers or 62 miles from the city of Antalya itself. The canyon is 400 meters or 1,300 feet deep in some places. It stretches for 14 kilometers or 9 miles along the Köprü River, which makes for beautiful vistas. And with its rapids, this canyon is famous for white-water rafting. It’s also a great place for hiking, biking, or just taking a boat tour from the Roman Stone Bridge upstream.

13. Olympos National Park: Nature at its best in Turkey

Olympos National Park is a destination you have to visit when in Turkey. It lies to the west of Antalya and to the southeast of Kumluca. It stretches for about 90 kilometers, or 56 miles, along the coastal highway. The park is made up of the Taurus Mountains, which are mainly limestone and serpentine rocks. This rugged landscape makes for mesmerizing canyons and tons of outdoor activities, such as the beautiful Göynük Canyon and the entrancing Chimaera ‘Eternal Flame’. But besides that, you can also find some ancient cities and beautiful beaches in the area, such as Phaselis, Olympos, and Çıralı.

12. Lake Tuz: A fading miracle

Lake Tuz is one of the largest salt lakes in the world. It’s known for its vibrant pink color and is home to a variety of birds. When we visited at the beginning of November, the lake wasn’t very pink, it was mostly dried up, with one area being covered in water that made for amazing reflections. Climate change has had drastic consequences here. Extreme drought over the last years has resulted in the receding of the lake and the perishing of flamingos and other birds. Lake Tuz is very beautiful and worth it if you want some epic pictures!

11. Antalya: A perfect mix of culture and nature

At number 11 we have the city of Antalya, which is the 5th most populated city in all of Turkey. Located on the southwest coast and tucked underneath the Taurus Mountains, Antalya has beautiful weather all-year-round and offers tons of exciting things to do. From natural attractions such as the Kursunlu and Düden waterfalls, to the famous Konyaalti beach, and the historical Old Town, you can find any type of adventure here. But what we liked most about Antalya is its proximity to incredible places to visit right outside the city. The ruins of Perge, Aspendos, and Termessos are all must-visits. Make sure to dive into the surrounding nature with a hike in the Taurus Mountains or a boat ride in the Green Canyon. Watch our video about Antalya to learn more about this beautiful city.

10. Pamukkale: Bathing with a STUNNING view

Pamukkale is another incredible Turkey travel destination. This natural site is located in the Denizli Province in southwestern Turkey. It’s known for its mineral-rich thermal waters flowing down white travertine terraces on a nearby hillside. These pools are absolutely stunning and like nothing we had ever seen before in our lives. They are the perfect place to swim, relax, and watch the sunset from. We recommend visiting the pools two hours before sunset for minimal crowds and a gorgeous sunset. But Pamukkale is more than the limestone terraces. There’s an entire ancient city behind the Thermal Pools, which is called Hierapolis. This ancient city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988 and has since enjoyed more protection to keep its beauty and history intact. Definitely a place worth visiting! If you want to learn more about this breathtaking place, watch our Everything You Need To Know about Pamukkale video on YouTube or read our blog about Pamukkale .

9. Lake Salda: The Maldives of Turkey

Lake Salda is a two-hour drive from Lake Eğirdir and lies within the boundaries of the Burdur Province in southwestern Turkey. Also called “the Maldives of Turkey”, this crater lake has white sand beaches and clear, turquoise blue waters. But one of the most interesting things about Lake Salda is its unique geology. It’s one of the only places in the world where ancient stromatolite algae still grow. The lake is also rich in minerals and depositional features similar to those found at Jezero Crater on Mars. Some of these minerals are believed to offer remedies for certain skin diseases. Since 2021, Lake Salda has been protected by Turkey’s environmental authority. The national park facilities were brand-new when we visited. However, this protected status also means that you’re not allowed to swim in certain spots of the lake anymore.

8. Lake Eğirdir: The hidden gem of Turkey

The Anatolian Lake District is tucked away within the Taurus Mountains in Southwestern Anatolia. It’s truly one of the most beautiful travel destinations in Turkey, but also a bustling center of activities for those who love the outdoors. The town of Eğirdir is at the heart of the area and the perfect base for hiking, climbing, and exploring the regional sights. In addition to Eğirdir’s very own lake and mountain activities, it’s worth visiting the nearby Yazili Canyon, Lake Kovada, and Sagalassos Ruins.

7. Ephesus: A Greek paradise in Turkey

Ephesus is the most impressive ancient ruin in Turkey in our opinion, and therefore we rank it at number 7. The ruins are located right outside the town of Selçuk, about 80 kilometers or 50 miles from Izmir. Once a port city, Ephesus was considered the most important Greek city and trading center in the Mediterranean region. Throughout history, Ephesus survived multiple attacks and changed hands many times between conquerors. But what’s truly special about this site is how well the ruins are preserved. You can find ancient toilets, a library, two theaters, and much more. We highly recommend combining this ancient city with a visit to Izmir and its nearby beach towns.

6. Izmir: Authentic Turkish culture

Izmir is located in western Turkey along the Aegean Sea. It’s the third-largest city in Turkey after Istanbul and Ankara, with over 3 million inhabitants. It’s a popular university town in Turkey, so much of the population is made up of young students, giving the city a youthful and vibrant feel. The city offers a mix of cultural, historical, and archeological sites. You should definitely pay a visit to the bustling Kemeralti Bazaar, the iconic Konak Square, the youthful Alsancak Square, and the ruins of ancient Smyrna. If you want to find out more about what to do in Izmir watch our video or read our blog of the 6 Best Things To do in & around Izmir .

5. Green Canyon: a serene place to visit in Turkey

The Green Canyon sits in the heart of the Taurus Mountains and close to the town of Manavgat. It's a popular place to visit in Turkey, especially during the summer months when you can do a boat tour into the canyon. With its beautiful and natural scenery around, you can also walk along the shore and admire the bright green waters. There are several cafes and restaurants on the shore, offering Turkish specialties with a beautiful view. However, the best way to see the canyon up close is on a boat tour. Unfortunately, this place was heavily affected by the wildfires in the summer of 2021.

4. Kaş: A Greek feeling in Turkey

Traveling around Turkey isn’t complete without a visit to Kaş. This beautiful seaside town lies on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey in the Antalya Province. It’s located about 188 kilometers or 300 miles to the west of the city of Antalya and is known for its whitewashed houses, relaxed atmosphere, and coastal views. Kaş is not as commercialized as Antalya, which means it attracts fewer crowds and maintains its charm. The old town and harbor are stunning, but the nearby Patara beach, Kaputaş beach, ancient Myra, and Kekova Island are also an absolute must-visit! Read more about this coastal town in our blog about the Absolute Best Things To Do In Kaş .

3. Dalyan: An otherworldly looking place in Turkey

Dalyan is home to beautiful lakes and a winding river, dramatic Lycian tombs hewn into the rocks, and a unique stretch of beach. We highly recommend driving up to the Radar Hill viewpoint. It’s absolutely otherworldly looking and especially stunning at sunset. Dalyan is a true hidden gem and we believe it will become more popular in the next few years as hotels emerge in the area.

2. Ölüdeniz: Adrenaline combined with an extraordinary view

Ölüdeniz is another beach town in the southwest of Turkey. Ölüdeniz is known as one of the world's best places to go tandem paragliding because of its breathtaking panoramic views of the aquamarine sea and a blue lagoon. From here you can also visit some other towns but paragliding was hands down our favorite activity in Ölüdeniz. In fact, it’s one of our favorite travel experiences together in our lives so far. You can watch our special moment in our YouTube video about the Best Things to do in & around Ölüdeniz, Fethiye .

1. Cappadocia: Turkey's most romantic place

Cappadocia is our favorite travel destination in all of Turkey. It’s located in the center of the country, about 300 kilometers from the capital city of Ankara. It is a region mainly within the boundaries of Göreme National Park. It’s world-famous for its fairytale scenery, cave dwellings, bizarre rock formations, and hundreds of hot air balloons that float in the sky during sunrise. It’s no surprise that this area is filled with amazing hikes and an intriguing history. Explore the Underground Cities, the Göreme Open-Air Museum, and Uchisar Castle and hike through some of the amazing valleys.

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More Helpful Info About Turkey

If you still need more information about things to do when visiting Turkey, make sure to check out these other great articles below:

15 Epic Places to Visit In Turkey + Itinerary by Two Wandering Soles

23 Intoxicating Things To Do In Turkey In 2022 That Will Sink Deep Into Your Soul by Travel Triangle

12 unmissable things to do in Turkey by Lonely Planet

Want to see more of Turkey? Check out our Turkey travel guide and watch our YouTube playlist with all our videos of Turkey. Enjoy!

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Cappadocia, Turkey: Best Things To Do

Antalya, Turkey: Best Things To Do

Lake Egirdir Best Things To Do (Turkey's Hidden Gem)

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7 of the best cities to visit in Turkey

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Few countries so close to home can tick off as many travel essentials as Turkey , with flights from the UK taking around four hours, or about four days if you take the train.

The country has warm weather in both summer and winter, while being home to beautiful coastal areas , renowned historic sights, buoyant party resorts and an eclectic range of cities.

It’s no secret that Turkey is an excellent holiday destination. But less well known is the variety on show within its cities, a surprising number of which will keep you busy over a weekend or even longer.

Istanbul is many visitors’ first taste of the country, with its high-octane way of life and excellent range of things to do providing a memorable introduction to Turkish culture, history, cuisine and nightlife.

In Turkey’s south west, the Turquoise Coast – also known as the Turkish Riviera – is home to cities such as Bodrum and Antalya . They combine distinct heritage with striking coastal beauty, the perfect spots to visit in the midst of a beach holiday in this laid-back part of the world.

In the capital, Ankara , meanwhile, a vibrant energy attracts Turkish and foreign visitors alike.

But in a country so large, and so blessed with captivating cities, it can be difficult to know where to begin. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the best cities in Turkey to help you plan your next adventure , whether it’s history, nightlife or culture that gets you going.

With a population of around 16 million people, Istanbul is a city that seemingly never sleeps. Bisected by the emerald waters of the Bosphorous Strait (which you can tour by boat for marvelous views), this is the place where two continents meet, and this fusion of distinct cultures has created a vibrant city whose energetic way of life often borders on chaotic.

A city steeped in the history of both Europe and Asia, Istanbul has been the home of three different empires over almost three millennia, and today still preserves some remnants of these vastly different cultures. Ottoman and Byzantine influences dominate, particularly in the Sultanahmet district, home to many of the city’s must-see sights.

Prime among these are the Blue Mosque, with its towering minarets, and the Hagia Sophia, a mosque that was originally constructed as a church, reflecting the changing influences that the city has been subject to. Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern are the district’s other main attractions, though it pays to explore further afield in areas like Balat, originally the city’s Greek Orthodox and Armenian neighbourhood, and Fener.

For a more contemporary taste of Istanbul, Arnavutköy is the heart of the city’s nightlife scene, while SALT Beyoğlu hosts art exhibitions and film screenings.

Read more on Turkey travel :

• Best Turkey holiday destinations
• All aboard the night train to Istanbul: the reality of one of the ‘world’s best’ rail journeys
• Turkey’s best winter sun spots to visit

Most years, Antalya competes with Istanbul for the title of ‘most visited Turkish city’. Though just a fraction of the size, Antalya, the capital of the country’s Turquoise Coast, punches above its weight in the tourism stakes thanks to a characterful old town, a beautiful harbour and dozens of beautiful surrounding beaches.

Some of the best nearby beaches include Cirali, Konyaalti and Patara, and while many choose to stay in one of the various beachfront resorts that populate the surrounding coastline, exploring Antalya itself is certainly worth leaving your sun lounger for.

Its charming old town, known as Kaleiçi, consists of labyrinthine streets housing a series of mosques, ancient walls, russet-roofed stone buildings and parks that attest to the influence of Ottoman culture and architecture. These narrow alleys snake down to the equally idyllic harbour, where a slew of cafes and restaurants welcome revellers throughout the day and night.

Bodrum is best known as an ideal spot for a Turkish summer holiday. Set among rolling green hills, it has an enviable coastal location, pristine beaches like Yahsi and Aspat, a variety of tourist sites and lively nightlife for those who seek it.

A range of resorts, from the dazzling high-end to the more affordable and family-friendly, cater to all sorts of tourists, whether you’re looking for parties on the marina or want to delve into the region’s history. There’s plenty of Bodrum’s past to explore; once known as Halicarnassus, it still contains a mausoleum, ancient ruins, a Roman theatre and the 700-year-old Bodrum Castle.

Like any coastal tourist city, there’s plenty more to see and do in Bodrum away from ruins and sun loungers. Scuba diving is a popular activity in nearby Gokova Bay, while boat trips around the peninsula or the Dalyan River are a good way to spend an afternoon, as is wine tasting at Karnas Vineyards . The town’s proximity to Kos means that tourists and locals alike will often spend the day in Greece too.

Turkey’s capital city may be overshadowed by world-renowned Istanbul, but Ankara offers visitors an experience of Turkey’s ‘other’ side, away from chaotic cities and party-centric coastal resorts. This is a youthful, exciting city that fuses the old and the new. It is fuelled by its relatively new status as a major city, and vibrant modern areas such as studenty Kizilay and more upmarket Kavaklidere.

But Ankara has been careful not to forget its past. High above the city sits the Anit Kabir, the vast mausoleum of the father of modern Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who led the War of Independence and bestowed the city’s status as capital. Down below in Hisar, Roman monuments like those at Ulus sit alongside Byzantine citadel walls that enclose Ottoman-era mini villages. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and the Museum of the War of Independence are two more historical highlights, while the parks of Kugulu and Genclik provide some much-needed green space.

Izmir is sometimes overlooked in favour of nearby Bodrum or Marmaris, but Turkey’s third largest city is home to plenty of arts, culture and a rich heritage, as well as the idyllic coastal resorts of Cesme, Alacati and Urla.

While the city’s past was characterised by activity around the Bay of Izmir, Konak Pier and the impressive city promenade (known as Kordon), the modern-day symbol of the city is its 20th-century Clock Tower.

It is located in the middle of Konak Square, in the district of the same name, which is also the gateway of the maze-like 17 th -century Kemeralti Market. This Turkish bazaar stretches across the city into the Roman agora, with the ancient Kadifekale fort being the other main historic site.

Located on the border with Greece and Bulgaria , Edirne is a city with a more European feel than other Turkish counterparts, but one whose architecture, mosques, bazaars and palace provide a constant reminder that you are in a former Ottoman capital.

Edirne sits along the banks of both the Maritza and Tunca rivers, surrounded by verdant plains and with much of the same white-washed, russet-roofed building styles as Antalya. The city’s main landmark is the 16th-century Selimiye Mosque, an impressive Unesco-listed structure that has become a symbol of Edirne. Other mosques, such as Muradiye, Old Mosque and the Sultan Beyezid II Complex, adorn the city skyline, while a series of bridges over the Tunca also hark back to Ottoman times, and provide a base for summer relaxation and mild swims.

Marmaris is a popular coastal town, welcoming thousands of tourists every summer despite its modest size. It benefits from a striking location on the Aegean Sea and surrounded by dense forest and towering hills, with a coastline that is home to golden sand lapped by azure waters along beaches like Urban or Long Beach.

Like Antalya, the town begins in its yacht-filled marina, with a maze of narrow streets slowly snaking back into the old town, itself a sea of red roofs and white-washed buildings. Marmaris Castle, the museum, the bazaar and Jinan Gardens are worth exploring to take in history, a spot of shopping and a pleasant stroll, before ending the day on aptly named Bar Street, the centre of the city’s often raucous nightlife.

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Turkey is an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers seeking a summer vacation. The country offers diverse attractions and activities that cater to all budgets. Visitors can choose to visit the well-known tourist spots or skip the touristy areas and head off the beaten path . The cost of living here is relatively low compared to many other destinations, allowing visitors to stretch their budget further. Accommodations, food, and transportation can be found at reasonable prices without compromising quality. The country’s stunning coastline boasts turquoise waters and pristine beaches, making it an ideal summer destination for sun-seekers. The country's rich cultural heritage offers a wealth of historical sites, museums, and ancient ruins that can be explored for free or at a low cost.

Turkey's bustling markets and bazaars are also perfect for bargain hunters, where travelers can find unique souvenirs and local handicrafts at affordable prices. Turkey is an excellent value-for-money destination, offering a rich cultural experience and breathtaking natural beauty at a fraction of the cost of other summer vacation spots. Are you ready to explore the affordable side of what this location offers? Let's look at Turkey's most affordable places to visit on a budget!

Our recommendations for places to stay included in this article are based on research on accommodations in Turkey. The sites selected were based on a combination of factors, including proximity to popular tourist spots in places like Ankara and Istanbul, an overall user rating of 7.0 or higher, a star rating of 3 or higher, useful and necessary amenities, and a competitive rate compared to accommodations in the same area. Our suggestions are also based on positive user reviews, with each recommendation being chosen because of the praise of previous visitors.

10 Istanbul

This vibrant metropolis that straddles Europe and Asia is an excellent location for budget-conscious travelers seeking a summer vacation. The city offers a blend of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty accessible to visitors at a reasonable cost. Istanbul is home to many attractions , a lot of them at low cost to visitors, including the iconic Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, which offer visitors a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage. The city's bustling markets and bazaars, such as the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, are perfect for budget-friendly shopping, where visitors can find unique souvenirs and local handicrafts. Istanbul's charming neighborhoods, like the trendy Karakoy and the bohemian Beyoglu, offer visitors an opportunity to experience the city's vibrant street culture, bustling cafes, and hip bars without breaking the bank. Additionally, Istanbul's picturesque waterfront location provides numerous opportunities for budget-friendly outdoor activities, such as taking a leisurely boat ride along the Bosphorus or enjoying a picnic in one of the city's many parks. Overall, Istanbul is an affordable and exciting summer vacation destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty to those on a budget.

• Where To Stay: Germenicia Hotel
• Address: Çakmaktasi Sk. 19, Istanbul 34126
• Amenities: TV, Room Service, Free Wi-Fi, Laundry Service

Related: This Ancient Byzantine Palace In Istanbul Is Open To The Public For Tours

This city is Turkey's culturally rich capital and is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a unique summer vacation experience. As a less touristic city than Istanbul, Ankara offers competitive prices for accommodations, dining, and transportation, allowing visitors to experience the best of the country without straining their budget. The city boasts numerous historical and cultural attractions, such as the impressive Ataturk Mausoleum, the ancient Roman Temple of Augustus, and the Haci Bayram Mosque, many of which can be explored for free or at a low cost. Ankara's Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, housing artifacts from Turkey's ancient past, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts on a budget. The city also offers vibrant shopping experiences in local markets, like the Kizilay Square and Ulus Area (also known as Old Town), where visitors can find affordable mementos and sample delicious traditional Turkish cuisine. Furthermore, Ankara's central location makes it an excellent base for exploring other budget-friendly destinations throughout Turkey, such as Cappadocia's striking landscapes or the nearby picturesque Lake Eymir. In short, Ankara provides budget-conscious travelers with an authentic and affordable Turkish experience, blending rich history, dynamic culture, and accessible attractions for a memorable summer vacation.

• Where To Stay: Atalay Hotel
• Address: Cankiri Caddesi No 20 Ulus, Ankara 06030
• Amenities: Fitness Center, Bar/Lounge, Valet Parking, Free Wi-Fi

Located in the heart of Turkey's Central Anatolia region, this is a hidden gem for those seeking a unique summer vacation experience. The city offers visitors a glimpse into its rich Islamic heritage, including the famous Mevlana Museum and the famous Sufi philosopher Rumi's final resting place. The city's numerous mosques, such as the impressive Selimiye Mosque and the historic Alaaddin Hill, offer breathtaking panoramic views of the city and are accessible to visitors at no cost. Konya's vibrant bazaars, such as the Mevlana Bazaar and the Ince Minare Market, offer a variety of affordable shopping and dining options, allowing visitors to experience unique and traditional Turkish delicacies without breaking the bank. Konya's central location also provides easy access to nearby attractions, such as the ancient city of Catalhoyuk and the stunning Tuz Lake, making it an ideal base for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore the region. You can expect an authentic and affordable Turkish experience, blending rich history, Islamic culture, and accessible attractions for the most memorable summer vacation.

• Where To Stay: Hotel Ney
• Address: Aziziye Mahallesi Aziziye Caddesi Ayanbey Sokak No:13, Konya 42030
• Amenities: Free Parking, Free Wi-Fi, Restaurant, Room Service

7 Cappadocia

This mesmerizing region in central Turkey is an idyllic summer vacation destination. Known for its unique geological formations, Cappadocia offers a wealth of natural and historical attractions that can be experienced at a reasonable cost. The region's famous fairy chimneys, underground cities, and cave dwellings provide visitors with unforgettable experiences. If you're an adventure-seeker, you could even try a unique hot-air balloon ride over Cappadocia . In contrast, hiking trails, such as the famous Red and Rose Valleys, allow travelers to explore the stunning landscapes for free. Budget accommodations in Cappadocia often include cave hotels, which combine comfort with an authentic, local experience. Delicious and affordable Turkish cuisine can be found in the region's charming towns, such as Göreme and Ürgüp, where visitors can sample local dishes like testi kebab and pottery kebab. While the iconic hot air balloon rides may be a splurge for budget travelers, there are plenty of other cost-effective experiences, such as exploring the open-air museums of Zelve and Pasabag or visiting the ancient monastic complex of Selime. Budget-conscious travelers are in for an enchanting summer vacation destination that combines natural beauty, rich history, and affordable attractions for a truly memorable experience.

• Where To Stay: Cappadocia Kepez Hotel
• Address: Adnan Menderes Cad. No: 10, Uchisar 50180
• Amenities: Restaurant, Free Wi-Fi, Free Parking, Laundry Facilities

Trabzon, a picturesque coastal city along the Black Sea in Turkey, is a fantastic choice for an unforgettable summer getaway. Today, Trabzon has no shortage of attractions and thrills for the intrepid traveler. The city's main attractions, such as the stunning Sumela Monastery perched on a cliffside, the Hagia Sophia Museum, and the Ataturk Pavilion, showcase Trabzon's rich history without straining your budget. Strolling along the idyllic seaside promenade or exploring the lush greenery of Boztepe Park provides visitors with enjoyable, cost-free experiences. Trabzon's local markets, like the renowned Trabzon Bedesten, offer an array of budget-friendly shopping and dining options, allowing travelers to savor delectable Black Sea cuisine, such as Akçaabat meatballs and hamsi pilav. Additionally, Trabzon serves as a convenient base for exploring the stunning surrounding regions, such as the breathtaking Uzungöl Lake and the Altindere Valley National Park, both offering a range of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Trabzon presents an authentic Turkish experience that combines natural wonders, historical attractions, and affordable adventures for an extraordinary summer vacation.

• Where To Stay: Cebeciler Hotel
• Address: Toklu Mah., Kuran Kursu Cad., No.1, Trabzon 61100
• Amenities: Restaurant, Free Wi-Fi, Room Service, Free Parking

Related: 10 Reasons To Book Your Flight To Turkey This Summer

This ancient city, with its distinctive stone architecture and labyrinthine streets, transports visitors to a world steeped in history without putting a dent in their wallets. Mardin's awe-inspiring landmarks, such as the Deyrulzafaran Monastery, the Great Mosque, and the Kasimiye Madrasa, showcase the region's rich cultural heritage and can be visited at a minimal cost. Exploring the city's bustling bazaars, like the renowned Mardin Silver Bazaar, allows travelers to discover local handicrafts and indulge in scrumptious yet affordable regional cuisine, such as kibbeh and stuffed grape leaves. Comfortable and budget-friendly accommodations can be found in Mardin's traditional stone houses, converted into guesthouses and boutique hotels. Moreover, the city's location near the Syrian border offers a unique opportunity to learn about the region's diverse cultural influences, as seen in its art, architecture, and cuisine. In essence, Mardin provides budget-conscious with an unforgettable summer vacation experience that combines historical riches, mesmerizing landscapes, and affordable adventures in an enchanting setting.

• Where To Stay: Maristan Tarihi Konak
• Address: Teker Mahallesi, 94. Sirin Sokak, Mardin 47100
• Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, Complimentary Breakfast, Air-Conditioned, Patio

Antalya, situated on the coast of Turkey, is a fantastic summer vacation destination for those who crave a mix of sun, sea, and history. With so many things to do in Antalya , the hardest thing is to figure out where to start! Antalya's rich cultural heritage is evident in its ancient landmarks, such as Hadrian's Gate and the Antalya Museum, which can be explored at a modest cost. The city's bustling old town, Kaleiçi, is a treasure trove of narrow streets, quaint shops, and affordable eateries offering delectable Turkish cuisine, like pide and gözleme. Budget-friendly accommodations in Antalya are plentiful, with numerous hostels, guesthouses, and hotels catering to different prices. Furthermore, the city's well-connected public transportation system allows visitors to explore nearby attractions, such as the ancient ruins of Perge and the stunning Düden Waterfalls, without breaking the bank. Combining beautiful beaches, a wealth of history, and affordable options for accommodation and dining, consider this location for your next vacation.

• Where To Stay: Ersoy Ege Apart Otel
• Address: 14. Sk. 11, Antalya 07040
• Amenities: 24 Hour Front Desk, Wake-Up Service, Free Wi-Fi, Minibar

Related: Visit Antalya: Turkey's Biggest International Sea Resort

Renowned for its turquoise waters and picturesque beaches, such as İçmeler and Turunç, Marmaris offers ample opportunities for sunbathing and swimming without incurring high costs. The vibrant Marmaris Marina and seafront promenade provide a lively atmosphere where visitors can indulge in affordable local cuisine, like köfte and meze, while enjoying the breathtaking views. For history enthusiasts, Marmaris Castle and the ancient city of Kaunos are easily accessible and can be explored at a reasonable expense. Budget-friendly accommodations are abundant in the area, with numerous hostels, guesthouses, and hotels catering to various price points. This town also serves as an ideal base for discovering nearby natural wonders, such as the pristine Dalyan River and the striking Saklıkent Gorge, without breaking the bank.

• Where To Stay: Defne & Zevkim Hotel
• Address: Kemal engin bulvari 164 Sok 4, Marmaris 48700
• Amenities: Outdoor Pool, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Restaurant

Side, a charming coastal town on Turkey's southern Mediterranean coast, is an excellent summer vacation destination for those seeking an affordable yet unforgettable getaway. Known for its golden sandy beaches, such as East Beach and West Beach, Side allows visitors to bask in the sun and take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters without spending a fortune. The town's rich historical heritage is showcased through its well-preserved ancient ruins, including the Temple of Apollo and the Aspendos Theatre, which can be visited at a minimal cost. The charming old town of Side offers an array of budget-friendly dining options, where travelers can savor authentic Turkish flavors, such as kebabs and baklava. Affordable accommodations are plentiful in Side, with various hostels, guesthouses, and hotels catering to different budgets. The town's convenient location also makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions, like the breathtaking Manavgat Waterfall and the serene Green Canyon, without costing an arm and a leg. Prepare for an exceptional summer vacation experience, blending beautiful beaches, fascinating history, and an array of reasonably-priced activities and accommodations.

• Where To Stay: Villa Gizem
• Address: Side Mah. 606 Sok. 6/1, Side 07330
• Amenities: Coffee Shop, Bar/Lounge, Outdoor Pool, Free Wi-Fi

Bodrum, situated on the Aegean Sea in southwestern Turkey, is an excellent summer vacation destination. Even if you're a first-time traveler to Turkey, you have a lot of awesome activities you could explore in Bodrum . This city’s stunning beaches, such as Gumbet and Bitez, are perfect for sunbathing and offer a suite of affordable water sports activities, like windsurfing and parasailing. The town's rich history is reflected in its impressive monuments and landmarks, including the iconic Bodrum Castle and the ancient Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, both of which can be explored at affordable prices. Bodrum's charming old town features a lively market where visitors can shop for souvenirs and enjoy authentic Turkish street food, like Simit and gözleme. Accommodations in Bodrum cater to different budgets, with a variety of budget-friendly hotels, hostels, and guesthouses available. Its location also makes it a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions, like the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the stunning Pamukkale hot springs, without breaking the bank. One can expect a unique and unforgettable summer vacation experience, combining natural beauty, cultural richness, and a range of affordable activities and amenities.

• Where To Stay: Flora Hotel Bodrum
• Address: Dayilar Sokak Degirmenler Alti, Bodrum 48400
• Amenities: Private Beach, Spa and Wellness Center, Free Parking, Room Service
• Bucket List Ideas

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Best Places To Visit In Turkey

The country is a unique vacation spot that combines the best of different cultures. It’s full of amazing history and stunning natural beauty.

Some Turkey holiday packages from the UAE provide you with a chance to witness the country’s vibrant culture as well. Whether you’re admiring the snowy mountaintop or the clear blue waters of the sea, Turkey promises an unforgettable adventure for everyone. 

You can explore ancient ruins, or unwind on beautiful beaches. The place also offers one of the most enchanting hot air balloon rides. To ease up your trip to Turkey from Dubai, we have made a list of must-visit places that will make you fall in love with this magical land. 

Cappadocia 

The city’s landscape has been shaped by the activities of the volcano over many years, making it unique and stunning. The area is famous for its tall, unusual rock formations called “fairy chimneys,” which are made from rock topped with softer stone. Visitors can explore underground cities that were carved out by early Christians seeking safety. The area is known to have a rich and bright history. One of the most amazing experiences is a hot air balloon ride, where the sky fills with beautiful colors, creating special memories.

The city’s name, which translates to “cotton castle,” has some really unique and stunning sights. Here, warm waters flow over white formations, creating natural stone waterfalls. You can also visit the ancient Roman city nearby, where you’ll find an old theatre and baths, still in great shape. Don’t miss the chance to swim in a natural pool filled with hot springs and enjoy the amazing views around you.

This city was once a bustling port city and a key part of the Roman Empire. You can stroll through the stunning Library of Celsus, a two-story building that is still in great shape. Be amazed by the Great Theatre, which could hold up to thousands of people. Visit the Artemis Temple, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and appreciate the clever Roman engineers who designed the city’s complex aqueduct system.

Antalya 

A beautiful city by the sea, this city is known for its mix of history and outdoor activities. You can visit the Gate of Hadrian, an ancient arch leading to the old town. Spend some time at the beach, which has golden sand and is great for swimming. Don’t miss the waterfalls, where you can hike and see the water pouring into a pool. The museum is also worth a visit, with many artifacts showing the region’s rich history.

This is a lively resort town on the Aegean coast with a rich history dating back to ancient Greek times. You can visit the Castle of Bodrum, a strong fortress that now has the Museum of Underwater History. The city market is a busy place where you can find local crafts and carpets. You can also take a boat tour to see hidden coves and beaches, or simply relax on the beautiful beaches.

Mount Ararat

This, Turkey’s tallest mountain, is known for its biblical history and attracts thrill-seekers. As you hike, you’ll see stunning scenery and amazing views. You can also witness beautiful glaciers as well. The path can be tough, and the weather can change quickly, but reaching the top is an unforgettable victory.

Trabzon 

Nestled by the Black Sea, this city is rich in history, natural beauty, and culture. You can visit the museum, which was originally a church built by the Greeks and later turned into a mosque. Check out the stunning Sümela Monastery, perched on a steep cliff. For nature enthusiasts, the Zigana National Park offers beautiful valleys perfect for hiking. Don’t miss the unique local flavors as well.

The capital is a lively city that is split by the blends of different histories seamlessly. Visit the stunning building that has served as a mosque and is now a museum. Explore the Grand Market, a busy place full of shops selling carpets, spices, and handmade items. Feel the peaceful environment of the Blue Mosque, decorated with beautiful tiles. Discover the luxurious palaces and the ancient underground tanks. This city is a fascinating place that takes you back through history.

The city, reveals a deeply spiritual side of the country. Visit the Museum, where the poet Rumi is buried. Watch the fascinating  Sema Ceremony, a dance representing the spiritual journey towards perfection. The place also showcases stunning architecture, like the beautiful  Mosques and much more, highlighting the area’s historical importance on the Silk Road.

This place is located in the southern part of the country and is a heaven for food lovers. Enjoy the city’s famous grilled meat dish. Wander through the historic center, where you can see hints of heritage from different lands. Visit the impressive Mosques, decorated with beautiful tiles. The city is also close to the ancient city of Misis, which features ruins and a bridge from the 1st century AD.

Mardin is a charming city on a southeastern plateau, known for its mix of cultures and religions. The city is famous for its honey-colored stone houses that seem to flow down the hill. You’ll find mosques, churches, and monasteries that reflect the area’s rich history. The local food combines Mesopotamian and Turkish tastes, offering a delicious experience.

This is a lively city on the Black Sea coast, full of history. You can visit the museum, which honors the founder of modern Turkey. There is also a former Greek Church, now a museum, where you can see many historical finds. This city is a great coastal getaway with beautiful beaches for relaxing and plenty of water sports to enjoy.

Here’s to the Fantastic Trip!

This was your small list of an unforgettable trip to Turkey. We hope this made you a little bit more excited about your trip to an enchanting land. Have it all planned out but worried about your visa? Well don’t worry, The finest agency is here for you! Contact the best travel agency in Dubai, Next Holidays for a visa.

Photo credit: HWM.

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Seven Best Vacation Spots to Beat the Summer Heat

The best vacation spots to beat the summer heat and embrace the comparatively cool, include Alaska, Reykjavík, British Columbia, and Stockholm.

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If you’re trying to stay cool this summer , why not just leave the heat behind? Some of the best vacation spots in the world let you do just that. While it may be sweltering in your part of the world, other countries and cities are experiencing mild summer temperatures or are in the middle of their winter season. 

Many parts of the United States, however, are heating up. Experts believe that there’s a good chance this summer could be one of the hottest on record, with Accuweather predicting that from June through August, temperatures will reach 2 degrees above historical averages across more than half of the country. In fact, a recent heat wave has already set new daily high-temperature records from Washington D.C. to Maine, reports Forbes . 

If you're finding the summer heat unbearable, you can escape these record-breaking temperatures by traveling to one of the best vacation spots to escape the summer heat.

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 1. Denali National Park, Alaska 

• July average high temperature: 59°
• August average temperature: 54°

If you want to stay cool and escape the heat this summer, consider heading to Denali National Park, where you’ll get up close and personal with unspoiled wilderness and wildlife. The best part? The average summer temperature ranges from only 33 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. We recommend taking a bus tour of the park, where you'll have the opportunity to look for wildlife like bears, moose, caribou, foxes and wolves. There are plenty of guided hiking tours as well. Take advantage of the cool summer air while you can!  

It takes 5.5 hours to get to the park from Anchorage by car or 8 hours by train, and only about 2.5 hours by car or 4 hours by train if you leave from Fairbanks. If you really want to get off the grid, you can even stay inside Denali National Park at one of its remote, exclusive wilderness lodges.

2. Amsterdam, Netherlands

• July average high temperature: 71° 
• August average temperature : 71°

If you’re not the outdoorsy type, a vacation in the city might be more your speed. Throughout the year, the temperature in Amsterdam usually ranges from 34°F to 71°F, rarely reaching below 22°F or above 81°F — great news if you’re looking to escape the heat this summer. Plus you’ll have plenty of daytime to sightsee. Amsterdam sunsets take place after 10 pm for much of June and July, according to Eating Europe , and traces of light can be seen up to 11 pm or later almost the entire summer. 

If you like art or history, make sure to stop by several of the city’s famous museums, including the Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum. You can also enjoy the city’s many canals by taking a guided canal cruise. 

3.  Reykjavík, Iceland 

• July average high temperature: 56°
• August average temperature: 56°

Although June, July and August are technically Iceland's warmest and driest months, don’t expect the weather to be warm or dry — average summer temperatures in Iceland range between 50-59 ° F, rarely reaching over 80 ° . And thanks to Iceland’s “midnight sun,” where the sun never fully sets, you’ll have almost 24 hours of daylight to enjoy all the country has to offer — which is a lot. 

Start your adventure in Reykjavik, where you can rent a car and start on what’s known as the Ring Road — an 800-mile loop circling the country. On this route, you’ll find waterfalls, glaciers, national parks and black-sand beaches. While you're in Iceland, also check out some of the best natural scenery on the planet in the Icelandic Highlands, which are inaccessible in the winter but can be explored in the summer. You’ll find breathtaking mountains, lava fields, hot springs and glaciers.

4. Cape Town, South Africa

• July average high temperature: 68°
• August average temperature: 68°

While we Americans try to beat the heat from June to August, countries in the Southern Hemisphere are enjoying their winter season. So if you’re looking to escape record-breaking high temperatures, travel south. At this time, Cape Town experiences a cooler and wetter climate, so expect temperatures under 70 ° as well as plenty of rainy days.

The benefit of visiting in winter? It's the off-peak tourist season, meaning fewer crowds and tourists while you go whale watching, hike Table Mountain, delve into the city’s famous culinary scene or embark on a safari. 

South Africa also made Kiplinger’s list of Best Places to Visit Where the Dollar Is Strong and The 10 Cheapest Countries to Visit .

5. South Island, New Zealand

• July average high temperature: 46°
• August average temperature: 50°

New Zealand is another great vacation spot to escape the heat, especially for those who love snow. Winter will be in full swing, so expect alpine scenery, snow-capped mountains and crisp, cold air. The South Island in particular is home to many popular ski resorts, making it well-suited for snow sports enthusiasts. From Queenstown, you'll be able to travel to some of the best ski fields in the South Island within just a 20 to 90-minute drive. Coronet Peak, for example, is one of the most popular ski resorts on the South Island, featuring varied terrain for both beginners and experts.

If you're not a skier, no worries. You can still explore the region by taking a train ride through the Southern Alps, exploring glaciers, going on a dog-sledding or snowmobiling adventure and stargazing at the world's largest Dark Sky Reserve . For those who just want to relax, you can enjoy a cozy winter escape while staying in Queenstown.

6. Vancouver, British Columbia

• July average high temperature: 72°
• August average temperature : 72°

Vancouver summers are very mild and pleasant, with temperatures typically ranging from 66˚F to 73˚F throughout the day and dropping at night; the average low temperature for both July and August in Vancouver is 58°. Summer weather in Vancouver is also dry, so expect sunny days with only a small chance of rain — perfect weather to explore the city. 

Make sure you head over to Stanley Park to explore the 400-hectare natural West Coast rainforest, attend the Richmond Night Market, the largest night market in North America, and eat seafood on Granville Island. The city also hosts several summer festivals, including the Vancouver Folk Music Festival, Vancouver Greek Fest and Granville Block Party. 

7. Stockholm, Sweden

• July average high temperature: 75°
• August average temperature: 72°

Stockholm weather is perfect for sightseeing. Temperatures are comfortable and mild, with lots of sunshine. And during the summer months, the city experiences a total of 18 hours of daylight. 

Stockholm is rich with culture, offering 89 museums, 423 libraries, 80 cultural and community centers and 93 venues for theatrical performances across the 14 islands the city is situated on. The Vasa Museum, the most visited museum in Scandinavia, is a must-visit, housing the world's only preserved 17th-century ship. At the Swedish History Museum, browse 10 million artifacts from Sweden's history, organized by era. Also, take a ferry trip to explore the Stockholm archipelago of 30,000 islands. 

Related Content

• Best Cold Weather Places to Retire
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Erin pairs personal experience with research and is passionate about sharing personal finance advice with others. Previously, she was a freelancer focusing on the credit card side of finance, but has branched out since then to cover other aspects of personal finance. Erin is well-versed in traditional media with reporting, interviewing and research, as well as using graphic design and video and audio storytelling to share with her readers.

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