The Ultimate Traveler’s Guide: 10 Must-Visit Cities in Turkey for 2026

The Ultimate Traveler’s Guide: 10 Must-Visit Cities in Turkey for 2026

Turkey has solidified its position as a global tourism powerhouse, welcoming millions of visitors who seek a blend of ancient history, turquoise coastlines, and avant-garde urban life. If you are planning your first trip or looking to dive deeper into the Anatolian heartland, these 10 cities represent the very best of what the country has to offer.

1. İstanbul: The Eternal Megacity

Straddling two continents, Istanbul remains the heartbeat of Turkey. From its roots as Constantinople to its current status as a bustling metropolis of 15 million, the city is a living museum.

The Historical Peninsula: Home to the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapı Palace.

The Bazaars: Get lost in the scents of the Egyptian (Spice) Bazaar and the sprawling Grand Bazaar.

Modern Vibes: Explore the "Pera" district (Beyoğlu), walk down Istiklal Street, and climb the Galata Tower.

The Escape: Take a ferry to the Princes' Islands for a car-free weekend of cycling and Victorian-era mansions.

Must-Try: Kumpir (loaded baked potato) in Ortaköy and Balık-ekmek (fish sandwiches) in Eminönü.

2. Antalya: The Turquoise Riviera

Antalya is the crown jewel of the Mediterranean. Beyond its luxury resorts, the region offers deep archaeological treasures and stunning natural wonders.

Kaş & Kalkan: Authentic fishing towns that offer world-class diving and the famous Kaputaş Beach.

History on the Water: Visit the Sunken City of Kekova by boat or hike the Lycian Way.

Belek: A global destination for golf enthusiasts.

Must-Try: Piyaz (tahini-based bean salad) with Aksu meatballs.

3. Nevşehir: The Land of Fairy Chimneys

Located in the center of Cappadocia, Nevşehir feels like another planet.

Highlights: Sunrise hot air balloon rides, the Göreme Open Air Museum (a UNESCO site), and intricate underground cities like Derinkuyu.

Must-Try: Testi Kebabı (pottery kebab) cooked in a sealed clay jar.

4. Denizli: Nature’s White Castle

Denizli is home to Pamukkale, the "Cotton Castle."

Travertines: Walk through white calcium terraces filled with thermal waters.

Hierapolis: Explore the ancient Roman spa city located directly above the terraces.

Must-Try: The succulent Denizli Kebabı, slow-cooked with gumwood.

5. İzmir: The Pearl of the Aegean

İzmir is Turkey’s most liberal and laid-back city, blending ancient ruins with a vibrant Mediterranean lifestyle.

Ephesus: One of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world.

Alaçatı: Famous for stone houses, windsurfing, and its annual herb festival.

Must-Try: Boyoz (a flaky Sephardic Jewish pastry) and a sunset glass of wine in the village of Şirince.

6. Bursa: The First Ottoman Capital

Located at the foot of Mount Uludağ, Bursa is a city of green parks and Ottoman architecture.

Winter Sports: Uludağ is Turkey’s premier ski resort.

Silk Road Legacy: Shop for high-quality silk at the historic Kozahan.

Must-Try: The original İskender Kebab and Kestane Şekeri (candied chestnuts).

7. Muğla: The Beach Lover’s Paradise

Muğla houses the world-famous districts of Bodrum, Fethiye, and Marmaris.

Nature: The Butterfly Valley and the turquoise lagoon of Ölüdeniz are essential for any itinerary.

Adventure: Try paragliding from Babadağ mountain for a bird's-eye view of the Blue Lagoon.

8. Trabzon: The Emerald of the Black Sea

For those who prefer misty mountains over sunny beaches, Trabzon offers 50 shades of green.

Sumela Monastery: An incredible Greek Orthodox monastery carved into a steep cliff.

Uzungöl: A picturesque lake surrounded by dense forests and alpine meadows.

9. Ankara: The Heart of the Republic

The capital city is a masterclass in 20th-century urban planning and a hub for Turkish history.

Anıtkabir: The monumental mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

Museums: The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is a must-see for history buffs.

10. Mardin: The Golden City of Mesopotamia

Mardin is an architectural treasure perched on a hill overlooking the Mesopotamian plains.

Artuqid Architecture: The city is famous for its intricate stone-carved houses and madrasas.

Multiculturalism: A unique blend of Syriac, Kurdish, and Turkish cultures.