Best Places to Visit in Türkiye: Top 5

A country with turquoise beaches, towering mountains, vibrant cities, and a unique history, Türkiye stands as the gateway between Europe and Asia, showcasing rich culture and vast diversity. Istanbul, once the capital of the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires, now draws millions of visitors annually to explore its historical significance and modern charm. As a central hub for global travel, Istanbul’s international airport facilitates thousands of flights each day. Türkiye offers a plethora of experiences, from ancient wonders to natural marvels. Continue below for my list of the top 5 best places to visit in Türkiye.

Ephesus

Türkiye is home to many ancient cities and sites, but Ephesus is one of the most preserved dating back 9,000 years. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ephesus is most known for the famous entrance to the old Celsus library and the Temple of Artemis which was one of the original Seven Wonders of the World. Located within the site are Roman, Christian, Ottoman, Hellenistic, and Greek monuments, demonstrating the unique blend of Türkiye’s history. The city was not discovered until the 1860s by a team of archeologists. Today, less than 20 percent of Ephesus has been excavated, with teams still working on the site.

Pamukkale

Literally translating to “cotton castle,” these are the mineral springs that have been rising in popularity across social media. Nestled into the mountains are white nest-like baths filled with natural spring water. The unique white color of the structures comes from calcium oxide. Enjoy warm thermal mineral spring baths while taking in the views of the ancient city. On the site are also the ancient ruins of the Greco-Roman spa town Hierapolis, built at the very top of the site, around the healing springs. Here is also the location of Cleopatra’s hot bath, said to have been a gift from Mark Antony.

Fairy Chimneys of Cappadocia

The famous hot air balloons draw in tourists to gaze at the unique fairy chimneys, unlike anything else you’ve ever seen. Over the centuries, erosions of rock have created these interestingly shaped rocks, which have been turned into houses, monasteries, and churches. While the government has slowly been phasing out people from inhabiting these structures for safety reasons, you can still visit a few of the preserved ones or stay in hotels replicating the caves. Be sure to book a hot air balloon ride, or visit a cafe or rooftop of a hotel in Göreme to capture amazing views and photos of the balloons and the fairy chimneys.

Istanbul

Your visit to Türkiye would be incomplete without a visit to the capital city, Istanbul. This city has booming bazaars, famous mosques like the Hagia Sophia (Türkiye’s crown jewel), historical sites, and delicious food. While Sultanahmet and Eminonu are popular districts, each neighborhood, including Cihangir, Taksim, and Uskudar, represents a unique facet of Turkish heritage.

Archeological Site of Troy

Discovered by accident, this UNESCO World Heritage Site matches the description of Troy in Homer’s The Iliad but is still not 100% confirmed. Located in Çanakkale, Troy is a resting place for the soldiers who lost their lives in Gelibolu and is a documentation of the first contact between the civilizations of Anatolia and the Mediterranean world. Within the site are cities built on top of one another which is represented in the different layers of rock and design found within the excavation. Recent research and excavations discovered that the Troia and Troas region has been inhabited for 8,000 years.

Türkiye stands as a captivating destination, weaving together ancient wonders, natural marvels, and vibrant city life. From the well-preserved ruins of Ephesus to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia’s Fairy Chimneys, each place unfolds a unique chapter in Türkiye’s rich history and diverse culture. Pamukkale’s cotton castle and the bustling metropolis of Istanbul add further layers to this tapestry of experiences. As you explore the archaeological site of Troy, you’ll discover the roots of civilizations spanning millennia. These best places to visit in Türkiye offer an immersive journey through time and landscapes, ensuring a travel experience that is both enriching and unforgettable.

Planning a visit to Türkiye? Check out my complete travel guide!