Endless experiences in the bridge of continents… Let’s Go Türkiye!
Türkiye is a land of breathtaking wonders and unforgettable experiences. But where should you even begin to unravel this tapestry? We’ve handpicked five must-visit destinations that showcase the very best of Türkiye.
Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey through Türkiye’s most captivating regions!
🌿 Travelling Sustainably is A Breeze in Türkiye:
Sustainability in Türkiye isn’t an afterthought—it’s woven into every aspect of the travel experience. From eco-friendly accommodations and responsible tours to locally sourced cuisine and cultural preservation efforts, Türkiye ensures that your travels leave a positive impact on both the environment and local communities.
Some key resources you can use to travel with positive impacts:
Since its launch in 2021, the Türkiye Culture Route Festival has become a region-wide cultural event, unravelling Anatolia’s rich heritage and culture to the world through art, music, literature, and performance.
Organised by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the festival has expanded each year and is now a proud member of the European Festivals Association, further cementing Türkiye’s cultural presence internationally. The festival also features the works of renowned artists from across the globe
In 2025, the festival will take place over the span of 8 months across 20 Turkish cities! Expect thousands of events, from art exhibitions and theatrical performances to workshops and more.
Make sure to catch the festivities in İstanbul from September 27 – October 5 and Antalya from November 1 – 9 for an experience of a lifetime!
İstanbul
İstanbul, a city of empires, straddles two continents and boasts UNESCO marvels like the Sultanahmet Archaeological Park including the Hippodrome of Constantine, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapı Palace.
A showcase of İstanbul’s glorious past, the density of historic sites, local eateries, and must-visits in this neighbourhood made this area easy to navigate by foot and one of the most popular among travellers.
Historic Peninsula
Sultanahmet
A showcase of İstanbul’s glorious past, the density of historic sites, local eateries, and must-visits in this neighbourhood made this area easy to navigate by foot and one of the most popular among travellers. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Historic Areas of İstanbul highlight the city’s rich cultural and architectural legacy
The Entertainment Hub
The beating heart of İstanbul’s day and nightlife, this vibrant district stretches from the lapping waters of Galataport to the cobbled pedestrian avenues. Here, you can also hop aboard the iconic red trams and soak in the stunning views.
Classic with a Hint of Hip
Beşiktaş
Known for its markets, the İstanbul Naval Museum and Sinan Paşa Mosque, and as a major transport hub. This historic yet diverse district also features a thriving business area, passionate football culture, and scenic neighborhoods like Bebek and Ortaköy, along with Ottoman palaces in Yıldız.
Young, Fun, and Cool
Colourfully painted houses, diverse communities, and that old-town İstanbul charm—the atmospheric neighbourhoods of Fener and Balat are Türkiye’s must-visit areas. With cobblestone streets lined by historic synagogues, churches, and mosques, these districts offer a glimpse into İstanbul's rich multicultural past.
More Neighbourhoods You Should Not Miss
The Artist Haven
The Seafood Paradise
İstanbul Travel Guides for You:
Too much to do and too little time? Check out this İstanbul Bucket List to make sure you are not missing the coolest must-do activities in İstanbul!
Looking for the best places to stay in İstanbul? Pick out the best & sustainable hotels to make your travel a little friendlier for the planet.
💡Did you know there are 1614 hotels throughout Türkiye, 355 in İstanbul, certified by the GSTC-acknowledged “Türkiye Sustainable Tourism Program”? (As of March 2025)
Finding restaurants to enjoy some local gastronomy? Check out restaurants with Michelin Stars and make your reservation for a 15/10 İstanbul experience!
Cappadocia
The Real Cappadocia Experiences:
Fairy Chimneys
Fairy chimneys are Cappadocia’s iconic rock formations, shaped by volcanic activity and centuries of erosion. These towering, cone-shaped pillars, often capped with harder rock, create a surreal landscape. Many have been carved into dwellings, churches, and storerooms
Hiking / Trekking through the Valleys
These iconic landscapes are best explored on foot, with a network of trails winding through valleys carved by millions of years of erosion. With each trail revealing hidden cave dwellings, Byzantine art, and spectacular rock formations, Hikers can choose from easy walks to challenging full-day treks.
Hot Air Balloon
Hot air balloon rides continue all year round in Cappadocia. However, the optimal time to go on a ride is during the spring or autumn when the weather is generally mild and regular compared to other times of the year. Another option is to decide to experience a hot air balloon ride in winter - flying over snowy rock formations offers a completely different thrill! More to know before you fly >
Horseback Riding
Cappadocia is where you’ll see Anatolia-only Yılkı Horses roam free (find them near Mount Erciyes!). Many daily and multi-day horseback tours are offered to tourists to choose from. You can navigate through Valley stretches on footpaths where vehicles cannot enter, around fairy chimneys and among lush village vineyards by horses.
Vineyards
Cappadocia’s volcanic soil and unique climate have nurtured winemaking for thousands of years. Local varieties include Emir, known for its crisp, aromatic notes of green apple and citrus, and Öküzgözü, prized for its rich, fruity character.
Some recommended vineyards to visit include Kocabağ Winery, Turasan Winery, and Gelveri Winery. More details > | Wine hopping in Cappadocia >
Cycling Around
If you are a bike junky, Cappadocia has several recommended bike routes that pass through various landscapes and attraction sites, satisfying your craving for adrenaline and scenic views.
Feast for the Senses:
Pottery-Making
Avanos, a member of the European Route of Ceramics, is a town in the Nevşehir Province where centuries of craftsmanship have transformed red clay from the Kızılırmak River into stunning pottery, a tradition dating back to Hittite times.
Just a short walk from the town centre in Yeni Mahalle provides you with workshops such as Chez Galip and Guray Museum, where you can watch skilled potters at work or try your hand at the potter's wheel crafting a piece to take home as a timeless memento!
Silk Carpets
Turkish silk carpets, woven in Kayseri, are masterpieces of craftsmanship. Made from delicate cocoon threads, these rugs create mesmerising optical illusions. Historically, nomadic tribes used carpets for warmth, decoration, and trade. Today, they remain an art form, taking months to craft using centuries-old techniques.
Visit Çınar Carpets on Müze Caddesi or Sultan Carpets in Göreme to see artisans at work and explore stunning collections.
Local Cuisines
The aroma of slow-cooked clay pot kebab fills the air, mingling with the rich scents of apricot-infused Kayısı Yahnisi and the buttery fragrance of Nevşehir Mantısı.
Cappadocia’s cuisine, shaped by centuries of tradition, blends earthen-cooked flavours with local ingredients, from hearty stews to sweet, velvety kuru kaymak!
Antalya
From sun-drenched turquoise shores to snow-capped mountain peaks, and luxury resorts to remnants of ancient civilisations, the Antalya region is a land of contrasting beauties. Nestled along Türkiye’s Mediterranean coast, it invites you to wander through Lycian ruins, relax on golden beaches, trek through serene canyons, and embrace the endless adventures that await. Antalya also maintains its leadership as the city with the highest number of Blue Flag awards among destinations worldwide.
Antalya City
The vibrant heart of the Turkish Riviera, where modernity thrives amidst centuries-old structures and culture. Explore the charming Kaleiçi Old Town, relax on Konyaaltı and Lara beaches, or raft through Köprülü Canyon. Discover ancient artefacts at the Antalya Archaeology Museum and soak in breathtaking views of the mountains and the Mediterranean in this city.
Ancient Cities
One of the original Anatolian civilisations, the Lycian culture thrived in the Teke Peninsula of present-day southwestern Türkiye from the 15th century BC until its assimilation into the Roman Empire in 43 AD. Renowned for their unique rock-cut tombs carved into cliffs, the Lycians have left behind remnants that can still be explored today in ancient cities such as Xanthos, Patara, and Myra. The Ancient Lycian Way in Türkiye >
More Places in Antalya You Can’t Miss
Activities in Antalya’s Stunning Nature
With the highest number of Blue Flag beaches in the world, Antalya is a dream come true for travellers seeking the perfect balance of chill and thrill.
Beaching
Skiing
Saklıkent (Saklı) Highland
Saklıkent Highland (Saklıkent Yaylası), 50 KM from Antalya in the Beydağları mountains, sits at 1,850 meters and offers scenic access roads. Known for its ski facilities, the area is also a gateway to Karçukuru, Fesikan and Yazır Highlands, Moryer, Eren and Bereket Mountains; all perfect for camping and exploration.
Bakırlı Mountain
Bakırlı Mountain (Bakırlı Dağı), northwest of Kemer in Korkuteli district and 35 KM from Antalya city , houses the Saklıkent Ski Center on its snowy northern slope.
Visitors can ski from December to April, and even descend to the coast for a refreshing dip. What a unique one-day, two-season experience!
Hiking / Trekking
Antalya offers breathtaking hiking and trekking opportunities for nature lovers. Scale the majestic Tahtalı Mountain (2,365 M) in Beydağları National Park, where the Olympos Cable Car whisks you to the summit for panoramic Mediterranean views. Discover the rugged beauty of the Toros Mountains, with trails winding through Akdağlar and Bey Mountains near Kemer. For a mix of adventure and history, trek through Köprülü Canyon National Park, home to a 14 KM canyon, ancient ruins, and thrilling activities like rafting and canyoning.
Muğla
A history that spans 8,000 years through its preserved ruins, artefacts, and traditions, the modern-day Muğla is renowned for its gorgeously well-preserved beaches and bays, with a sprinkle of fantastic nightlife and outdoor activities on the side.
Beyond its stunning coastline, Muğla captivates visitors with ancient Lycian rock tombs, lush pine forests, and charming villages where time-honoured crafts and local flavours continue to thrive.
Bodrum
Bodrum dazzles with turquoise bays from lively Gümbet to exclusive Göltürkbükü. Sleek yachts line its marinas, while beachfront clubs buzz until sunrise.
Uncover ancient sites, relax on sunlit shores, and soak up Bodrum's irresistible Mediterranean charm.
Get a Taste of Bodrum
Fresh vegetables, olive oil-based mezes, and seafood delights — Bodrum cuisine is a true feast of Aegean and Mediterranean flavours.
Must-try dishes include stuffed pumpkin flowers, Çökertme kebab, and Bodrum’s signature boiled pastry. Don’t miss out on the ultimate seaside dining experience in this culinary paradise!
Su Böreği (Bodrum style savoury boiled pastry)
Okra with olive oil
Köpoğlu mezesi (smoked aubergine mixed with yoghurt)
Stuffed zucchini flowers
Çökertme Kebab (marinated meat served with fried potatoes, garlic yoghurt, tomato sauce, fried tomatoes and green peppers)
Lokma dessert (deep fried dough balls soaked in syrup or honey)
Fethiye
Sitting on the coastline between Bodrum and Antalya, Fethiye is the largest town in Muğla and the westernmost corner of Türkiye’s Mediterranean coasts. From the serene Ghost Village to the thrilling paragliding spots, this coastal gem in southwestern Türkiye is home to the ancient Lycian civilisation, a major base for gület, and so much more!
