Top 10 Cities to Visit in Turkey

We have prepared an inventory of the most effective cities to go to in Turkey and their best features. These cities shine out with their unique characteristics and specialties among the 81 cities in Turkey.

Turkey has welcomed nearly 15 million visitors in past years. The country could be a charming area for tourists, especially during the spring and also the summertime. Many first-time tourists have the identical question in mind: Which city is that the best to go to in Turkey? Here are the highest 10 cities to go to in Turkey.

Best Cities to Travel in Turkey

1. İstanbul

This enchanting city was formerly called “Constantinople”. town was planned as a megapolis by its founder Constantine the good. Even today, Istanbul still preserves its identity as a wonderful megacity. it's the foremost populated city in Turkey with an almost 15 million population.

İstanbul is additionally one among the foremost visited cities in Turkey thanks to its epic and deep-rooted historical background. The historical monuments spread everywhere town, especially within the “Historical Peninsula”. The Historical Peninsula is one in all the oldest settlements within the city. it had been the house of the best civilizations: Byzantines and Ottomans.

The Historical Peninsula hosts numerous historical landmarks. the foremost significant one is one amongst the most important Byzantine churches of all time: the Hagia Sophia. The Sultanahmet Mosque and therefore the Topkapı Palace are located near the Hagia Sophia.

The Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople is additionally located there. There are 100+ churches and mosques throughout the Historical Peninsula.
There are traditional and authentic Ottoman bazaars like the famous Mısır Çarşısı (Egyptian Bazaar) and therefore the Kapalıçarşı (Grand Bazaar). These historical bazaars have local shops. These shops offer different varieties of herbs, teas, and flavors from everywhere the planet. The Ottoman Bazaars are the most marketplace where European and Oriental tastes met in İstanbul.

The “Pera” and “Galata” regions are outstanding tourist attraction centers of Istanbul. During the late Ottoman period and early Republican era, these settlements were home to European expats. European and Ottoman tradesmen were maintaining businesses together within the region. it's possible to trace their footprints at the khans of Pera.

 

The most famous spots in Pera (Beyoğlu) and Galata are Taksim Square, Istiklal Street, and Galata Tower. apart from Kız Kulesi (Maiden’s Tower), the Galata Tower is that the most vital landmark of town.

The Princes’ Islands are perfect for a fast getaway from the hustle and therefore the bustle of city life. The four main islands are called Büyükada, Heybeliada, Kınalıada and Burgazada.

The whole atmosphere of the islands is more different than the colourful city life in İstanbul. The settlements resemble small fishing towns of the Mediterranean and islands of the Aegean.

It is possible to plan every day trip to the islands but there also are numerous accommodation amenities. Locals of İstanbul mostly opt to spend a joyful weekend before turning back to their business lives on Monday.

The outdoor activities within the islands are yacht trips, hiking within the natural parks, or cycling tours. There are plenty of wooden mansions, monasteries, and churches to go to on the island.

Buying handmade products from local shops while walking through the picturesque streets could be a perfect evening plan! Spending joyous time under the sun on beautiful beaches could be a dream come true for each Istanbulite!

Bonus: Don’t forget to undertake out the famous foods of İstanbul. spud (Kumpir) of Ortaköy, fish sandwich (balık - ekmek) of Eminönü are the foremost famous flavors. The meatballs in Sultanahmet, white beans in Süleymaniye, boza in Vefa are must-try foods of Istanbul. It’s a delicious experience that you simply won't forget!

2. Antalya

 

It wouldn’t be wrong to mention that this charming coastal settlement is among the foremost visited cities in Turkey. Nearly 10 million people like better to visit Antalya every year. Antalya has become one in all the most important cities in Turkey with high touristic demand.

Other than the town itself, the agricultural and coastal districts like Kaş, Kalkan, Alanya, or Belek are trending attraction spots. These settlements are the foremost popular places to experience the glowing Mediterranean lifestyle.

Alanya is an eastern coastal settlement of Antalya. The district is developed like popular tourist cities in Turkey. the colourful nightlife, comfortable living conditions, and talent to supply a need in an exceedingly short time make Alanya an ideal place to go to.

Alanya stands out with its gorgeous beaches like the Kargicak Beach in Mahmutlar or Cleopatra Beach at the district center. Its beautiful nature allows you to attend outdoor activities like hiking, or fishing. Also, picnicking within the Incekum Nature Park near the Avsallar settlement may be a perfect weekend plan!

Belek is additionally a coastal settlement near the town center. it's referred to as the heaven of golf and entertainment. The region hosts numerous golf resorts and hotels with comprehensive entertainment facilities. The lifestyle in Belek is as colorful and vibrant because the nightlife.

Kaş could be a glamorous western district of Antalya. The settlement has an authentic atmosphere, resembling alittle fishing town within the Mediterranean.

Kaş brings diverse lifestyles in one place. you'll enjoy modest activities like a stunning evening walk on narrow streets with stone pavements. But it also allows you to experience the Mediterranean luxury altogether!

Kaş district has also lots to supply for nature and history enthusiasts too. The turquoise waters of Kaputas beach, natural beauties, undiscovered coves are the simplest highlights of the district for nature lovers. one in all the foremost trending outdoor activities in Kaş is hiking and trekking on the Lycian Way.

The district also hosts a number of the old Greek cities in Turkey. The settlement still preserves the ruins of those settlements of Ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. Spring is that the best time to go to these archaeological sites like Patara, Myra, Anthipellos, Xanthos, and more.

One of the foremost interesting historical sites in Kaş is that the sunken city in Kekova. you'll be able to take a ship trip between the sunken ruins within the turquoise waters of Kekova.

Bonus: don't leave Antalya before trying “Piyaz” and meatballs in Aksu. Piyaz may be a Turkish navy bean salad and also the traditional food of Antalya. it's made with white beans, onions, eggs, and tahini. it's a novel experience of various flavors combined in an exceedingly tasty dish!

3. Nevşehir

 

This inland city in Central Anatolia Region is principally known for its charming historical sites. Nevsehir is situated at the center of the Cappadocia region. Among all of the traditional cities in Turkey, Nevsehir hosts a good number of underground settlements built by ancient civilizations.

The creation of the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia traces back to 60 million years ago. The volcanic mountains of Erciyes, Hasandağı, and Göllüdağ and geographical incidents are the most causes of the fairy chimneys.

The ancient civilizations like the Hittites, Phrygians, and Romans occupied the region throughout history. Today, the historical site of Cappadoccia is on a UNESCO World Heritage List.

Today the region is legendary for its fairy chimneys, hot air balloons, and underground cities. Visiting these carefully planned underground settlements, taking a hot air balloon trip above these beautiful ancient cities are once in a very lifetime experiences.

Bonus: The famous meal of town is named “Testi Kebabı”. it's a sort of kebab that's cooked during a clay pot. Also, the town is legendary for its traditional wines. These wines were product of local grapes called Öküzgözü, Boğazkere, Kalecik Karası, Narince and Emir.

4. Denizli

Denizli is one amongst the most effective cities to go to in Turkey. it's an inland Aegean city, famous for its thermal resorts and archaeological sites. the foremost epic place to go to in Denizli is without a doubt the Travertines at Pamukkale.

These gorgeous thermal pools of Pamukkale are situated back to back with the traditional city of Hierapolis. The thermal waters of Pamukkale have created a boom in health tourism in Denizli. These thermal pools help to cure rheumatic diseases, high vital sign, cardiovascular diseases.

Each year a good number of tourists visit Pamukkale for this unique experience. Visiting Pamukkale and Hierapolis, swimming alongside the ruins within the “Ancient Pool” could be a perfect opportunity to enjoy the magical atmosphere.

Bonus: Denizli has its own quite kebab referred to as the “Denizli Kebabı”. This meal is formed from lamb meat and cooked with gumwood and it's a must-try food in Turkey.

5. İzmir

İzmir is described united of the prettiest cities in Turkey. The dazzling natural beauties, carefully preserved historical landmarks, and modern settlements have an organic combination within the city.

İzmir is crammed with social opportunities to spend a joyful time. it's an ideal place to go to for nature, history, and sports enthusiasts.

The settlement was occupied by Greeks, Romans, and Christian Byzantines. the foremost famous ancient cities to go to in İzmir are Smyrna, Pergamon (Bergama), and Ephesus (Efes). The Ephesus Ancient City in Selçuk district is one among the cultural heritages within the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The most significant pieces of local arts may be seen within the Terrace Houses in Ephesus. the homes are adorned with multicolored frescoes and mosaics. The Terrace Houses represent the way of living within the ancient Aegean civilizations. Ephesus invites you to a novel journey through the time of antiquity.

Other than its deep-rooted history, today’s İzmir may be a wonderful place to undertake out diverse sports activities. you'll try windsurfing in Alaçatı or skydiving in Efes Dropzone above the ruins of Ephesus Ancient City. Also, paragliding in Ödemiş is one amongst the foremost trending outdoor activities in İzmir.

Horseback riding in Şirinyer Hippodrome and skating in Aşık Veysel Recreation Area are interesting activities you'll be able to try in İzmir. After an extended day of outside activities, take a chilled break at historical Agamemnon Hot Springs.

İzmir may be a multicultural city combining Aegean, Anatolian and Mediterranean cultures. this provides the chance to explore different cultures in one place altogether.

Bonus: every year with festivals like Alaçatı Herb Festival, town promotes its local productions to the visitors. Local inventions like the famous Boyoz or the wines of Şirince spread their reputation everywhere the globe. Also, don’t forget to require a sip from the tasty wines of Şirince!

6. Bursa

This northwestern city within the Marmara region is that the homeland of the empire. The foundations of the empire were laid during this gorgeous city. The urban texture of the town center remains the identical as within the Ottoman period.

The historical landmarks like Bursa Great Mosque, Bursa Yeşil Mosque, and Kozahan are still in use today. The local shops at the Kozahan offer high-quality silk textile products. After an exciting shopping experience, you'll want to require a prospect at the courtyard of the Kozahan. Sipping your tea under the trees and surrounded by this majestic building is worth trying!

Bursa still preserves its multicultural atmosphere. a number of the previous Greek settlements like Tirilye, Mudanya, or Gölyazı (Apolyont) remain as popular tourist attraction spots. Visiting these charming small coastal villages and towns could be a perfect weekend plan!

There is a famous tree in Golyazi, it's also referred to as the “Weeping Plane Tree”. The legend of this 750-year-old tree resembles the story of Romeo and Juliet.

The younger tree of the town is named “İnkaya Çınarı”. This 600-year-old tree is situated within Uludağ Natural Park. A Turkish breakfast under these enormous trees may be a must-do in Bursa.

Speaking of, Bursa is one amongst the highest cities in Turkey in terms of winter holidays. The Uludağ stands out joined of the foremost prestigious and famous ski centers in Turkey. the foremost convenient time to go to Uludağ for skiing is between January and February.

Soğanlı Botanical Park is additionally an ideal choice for weekend activities. The park includes a Japanese garden and a French garden. There are an English garden and quite 150 kinds of trees within the park. The picturesque Soğanlı Botanical Park may be a wonderful landscape for hiking, trekking, running, cycling and more outdoor activities.

Bonus: The local cuisine of Bursa incorporates a glowing star called “İskender Kebab”. This meal is served with boiling butter, fixings, and yogurt. Also, don’t forget to do the famous chestnut candy (Kestane şekeri) before leaving!

7. Muğla

Muğla may be a coastal city where the Aegean and Mediterranean culture intertwines with one another. it's one amongst the most effective beach cities in Turkey. town is usually known for its beautiful coasts, coves, and nature. the foremost famous vacation centers of Turkey are located in Mugla like Bodrum, Fethiye, Ölüdeniz, and Marmaris.

Bodrum Peninsula and Marmaris are mostly visited by tourists, especially during the summertime. These towns developed as small Aegean coastal villages with all year long holiday concept lifestyle.

The most interesting attraction spots in Mugla are the Saklıkent Canyon and parkland and Butterfly Valley. Also, Sedir Island (Also referred to as Cleopatra Island), İztuzu beach, and Ölüdeniz are famous places to go to in Mugla.

İztuzu is one in every of the foremost famous beaches in Turkey. Paragliding through sunset, just above the deep blue sea may be a trending activity in Ölüdeniz. The views of small islands, coves, and hills are just breathtaking.

Bonus: Muğla is legendary for a singular style of kebab called “Çökertme Kebabı”. Also, to possess a Turkish breakfast intertwined with nature, Yuvarlakçay is that the perfect place for it!

8. Trabzon

Trabzon is that the first city that involves mind when someone is bothered 50 reminder green. the town is found within the Euxine Sea Region, on the northeastern coast of Turkey. the town was occupied by Romans. it absolutely was one among the Byzantine rump states until the siege by the Ottomans in 1461.

The most magnificent historical landmarks of the town are the Hagia Sophia of Trabzon and also the Sumela Monastery. The Sumela Monastery is nestled in an exceedingly steep cliff in Maçka and dedicated to Virgin Mary Mary. The monastery still preserves its importance by standing at one piece, even nearly 600 years later than its foundation.

Hamsiköy and also the Uzungöl are a must-see for foreigners! The stunning views of picturesque misty hills provide you with the proper opportunity to require a possibility from city life.

Bonus: don't forget to do the delicious fish called “Hamsi” and also the Akçaabat meatballs. It’s a delicious experience that you just won't regret!

9. Ankara

The capital of Turkey incorporates a lot to supply for everyone! it's the 2nd largest city in Turkey with nearly 6 million population. the town of Ankara is far over a proper city full of government institutions. Ankara is additionally the living witness of the independence battle of the Turkish Republic.

The city of Ankara was carefully planned and constructed as a Republican city during the first 20th century. Ankara is full of historical landmarks of the War of Independence in Turkey.

There are cultural heritages throughout the town from the Roman period, like the column of Justinian and also the Augustus temple. The Roman bath and therefore the Ankara Castle will be sorted as some of them. you'll take a practise the streets of the old eye and visit the local shops at the Samanpazarı.
Ankara is one in all the most effective cities in Turkey for families. it's numerous activity options suitable for kids. you'll visit Aquavega Aquarium or museums with 1000+ artworks from everywhere the country.

There is an unlimited number of amusement centers like Wonderland Ankara. Recreation areas are perfect choices for family picnics like Altınköy exterior Museum or Mavigöl.

Bonus: Don’t leave Ankara before trying the famous bagel of town called “Ankara Simidi”.

10. Mardin

 

Without a doubt, Mardin is one amongst the foremost authentic cities of Turkey. The historical urban texture of Mardin is that the main highlight of town.
The city is an intersection of diverse religions and cultures. There are Syriac monasteries and 800-year-old mosques within the city. the traditional ruins like Dara Mesopotamia Ruins, and Muslim madrasas are worth seeing in Mardin.

The immaculate stonework of the buildings and detailed decorative artworks on the facades are the most features of the art form of buildings in Mardin. the normal stone houses of Mardin are designed with high ceilings, large terraces, courtyards to produce airflow during hot summers.

The exotic historical atmosphere in Mardin could be a “must-see”. The unique Artuqid architecture is possessed everywhere the town and enjoying this view could be a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Bonus: Visit the Historical Arasa Han and explore the local antique shops before leaving Mardin. you will also want to go to the local herbalists to do a number of these fresh herbs. These shops even have an endless number of spices and various herbal teas.

Turkey may be a wonderful country to explore. Each city in Turkey has its outstanding features. Take a glance at our Area Guide and Life in Turkey pages for more information.