Turkey, a country that bridges two continents, is a fascinating tapestry of historical marvels, vibrant cultures, and breath-taking landscapes. As Turkey gears up for a memorable 2023, the centennial anniversary of the founding of the republic, it promises to offer an extraordinary experience for travellers. Join us as we explore the top 24 best places to visit in Turkey in 2023, offering a blend of traditions, natural wonders, and architectural treasures.
Istanbul
Turkey’s largest city is an enchanting blend of ancient history and modern life. Start your journey in Istanbul, Turkey’s vibrant capital, where East and West seamlessly coexist. Visit the iconic Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Don’t miss out on the mesmerizing Bosphorus cruise and vibrant Grand Bazaar.
What to See in Istanbul Turkey
Istanbul is a city that never ends. You’ll never run out of things to see and do, no matter how long you stay. It is a cultural melting pot, a repository of history, and an exhibition of limitless beauty. Istanbul has a certain allure that will capture everyone. From its numerous historical sites, luxury neighbourhoods, and traditional bazaars to its bustling boulevards, coastal districts, islands, cruise ships, activities, concerts, and festivals, and so much more, this city has something for everyone.
Some of the key sites include:
- Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia) – The Hagia Sophia, a monument that transformed the path of Western architecture and served as the greatest church in Christendom for 1000 years, is one of Istanbul’s most recognisable attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
- Blue Mosque – Join a guided tour of the two most famous monuments in Istanbul: the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Enjoy an introduction to Sultanahmet and the Hippodrome as you witness local life with a guide.
- Topkapi Palace – One of the world’s oldest and largest palaces, was home to Ottoman Sultans for about 400 years. With skip-the-line tickets, take a guided tour of Topkapi Palace and its Harem. Admire its opulence and mystery while learning about Istanbul’s history.
- Bosphorus cruise – Take in sights of the Bosphorus on board a mega yacht. Enjoy the city view with a 3-course meal while you listen to live music and watch stage performances at private tables.
Cappadocia
Famous for its unique rock formations and cave hotels, Cappadocia is a must-visit destination. Experience the magic of Cappadocia’s unique rock formations and hot air balloon rides at sunrise. Explore the hidden underground cities and be amazed by the fascinating fairy chimneys that dot the landscape.
What to See in Cappadocia Turkey
Every year, tourists from all over the world rush to Cappadocia to discover what this magical area is all about. This location is well-known for numerous things, including fairy chimneys, underground cities, cave hotels, and the famed hot air balloons. It’s the one site you’ll remember your first visit to, especially if you intend to buy a Turkish rug or hand-painted ceramics!
Some of the key sites include:
- Göreme Open-Air Museum -This tiny valley, studded with stunning mediaeval painted churches, is the most visited attraction in Cappadocia, hence it is frequently crowded. Small churches, for example, may be crowded with guests, so plan your visit accordingly.
- Hiking Cappadocia – Trekking or walking along one of Cappadocia’s many picturesque paths is the ideal way to see the moonscape in depth.
- Hot-Air Balloon Flight – Glide above the amazing rock formations of Cappadocia on a hot air balloon ride. See the fairy chimneys from a different angle, 2,000 feet up, and feel comfortable because you’re flying with an experienced tour providers.
- Cappadocia Tour – On this full-day tour with an experienced guide, see the best sites Cappadocia has to offer. From the Goreme Open Air Museum to Underground City, Uchisar Castle, Devrent Valley, and Paşaba Valley, marvel at amazing monuments.
Pamukkale
Marvel at the stunning white terraces of Pamukkale, known for their natural thermal waters. Witness the surreal beauty of Pamukkale’s calcium-rich terraces and thermal pools. Take a dip in the warm mineral-rich waters and visit the nearby ancient city of Hierapolis.
What to See in Pamukkale Turkey
Pamukkale and its surroundings are home to historically significant sites as well as uncultivated natural phenomena. Some of its treasures are well-known and widely travelled, while others are less well-known but equally enticing.
Some of the key sites include:
- Pamukkale Thermal Pools – Pamukkale’s most famous attraction, natural terraces and dazzling blue pools of sparkling white calcium precipitated from the cooling mineral water.
- Hierapolis Ancient City – Hierapolis, a Roman spa town, has two entrances and features a cemetery, colonnaded walkways, a historic pool, an archaeology museum, and a Roman theatre. Within Hierapolis, you will find this Antique Pool of warm mineral water, surrounded by oleanders and littered with tumbled marble columns, is the most atmospheric place to experience the spa’s waters.
- Laodicea Ancient City – Laodicea, one of the Seven Churches of Revelation, is a 5500-year-old city located between Denizli and Pamukkale. It’s worth a visit because archaeologists have nicely repaired it.
Ephesus
Step back in time at Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Marvel at the Temple of Artemis, the Library of Celsus, and the Great Theatre, which once entertained thousands.
Some of the key sites include:
- Temple of Artemis – One of the Seven Wonders of the World in ancient times, the Temple of Artemis (Artemision) at Ephesus was a famous place of pilgrimage for centuries.
- Library of Celsus – The Library of Celsus is an architectural marvel and one of the few surviving examples of major libraries from the ancient world in the Roman Empire. It was the third-largest library in the Greco-Roman world, after Alexandria and Pergamum, and was thought to have held over 12,000 scrolls.
- The Great Theatre – Vast amphitheatre from the 3rd century BC, with marble columns & the remains of an ancient stage.
Antalya
This Mediterranean city has something for everyone, with its stunning beaches, waterfalls, and ancient ruins. Bask in the sun at Antalya, known for its stunning turquoise beaches and luxury resorts. Explore the ancient ruins of Aspendos and Perge, or simply relax and enjoy the warm Mediterranean waters.
What to See in Antalya Turkey
Antalya is a beautiful Turkish seaside city. It’s famous for its beautiful beaches, lovely old town, and historic ruins.
Some of the key sites include:
- Hadrian Gate – The most stunning landmark in Antalya is without a doubt the massive gate leading into the Kaleiçi. The Hadrian’s Gate (tr. Hadriyanüs Kapisi) or the Triple Gate (tr. Üçkaplar) are two names for it. The first name commemorates the city’s historical past, when the Roman Emperor Hadrian visited it in the second century AD, while the second relates to the appearance of the monument, which has three archways.
- Lara Beach – Lara Beach is a gorgeous sandy spot that is well worth a visit. It’s one of the most popular beaches in Antalya.
- Konyaaltı Beach – Konyaalt Beach is one of Antalya’s two main beaches, the other being Lara Beach. The beach is located on the city’s western outskirts and spans for 13 km. It is mostly made up of tiny pebbles, but there is some sand as well. The water is crystal clear.
Bodrum
A popular destination for sailing, Bodrum is also home to magnificent castles, museums, and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. For sun-seekers, Bodrum offers a glamorous coastal getaway. Explore its picturesque marina, visit the impressive Bodrum Castle, and soak up the vibrant nightlife.
What to See in Bodrum Turkey
Bodrum is well-known for its historical sites, boat trips, and upmarket tourism options. Celebrities and influencers flock here for a lavish Turkish vacation. With beautiful beaches and excellent restaurants, Bodrum has something for everyone.
Some of the key sites include:
- Castle of St. Peter – Today, the Bodrum Castle houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which is unique in Turkey and one of the world’s most important Underwater Archaeology Museums. The original plan and character of the Knights’ time are preserved in the Bodrum Castle, which displays Gothic architecture.
- The Mausoleum – It was an ancient marvel site for 1500 years before being devastated by an earthquake. Even though it is now only made up of stones and boulders, it is nevertheless worth a visit to grasp its significance. It’s a twisting path from the marina. There are films and models to demonstrate how it appeared.
- Yacht Cruises – Bodrum is a popular sailing destination in Turkey. If you do not wish to embark on a week-long Blue Voyage, you may easily enjoy a day sail around the Bodrum peninsula, with stops for lunch and swimming. Bodrum offers several shore excursions to other islands and beaches that can only be reached by boat. You can talk to the captains the night before your cruise by going down to the harbour.
Mount Nemrut
Mount Nemrut is one of Turkey’s most prominent and frequented attractions, located in the southeast area of Anatolia. The statues of King Antiochus are the main feature of the site. When visiting the site, you just must see the magnificent king’s statue. Aside from the statues, the rocky plateau and scenery of the Mount Nemrut region have many more things to explore. If you want to learn more about the area’s history, this is the best place to start.
Is Mount Nemrut Safe to Hike alone?
Yes. Mount Nemrut is safe to hike alone, provided you have the proper Hiking Gear and Clothing. If you ae more interested in joining a group of hikers, you can join hiking tour here. The best time to hike Mount Nemrut is between July & August or at least between late May and mid October. Always check the weather before climbing Mount Nemrut, you might be blocked by thick snow.
Ani
Ani is a ruined mediaeval Armenian city in Turkey’s Kars province, near the closed border with Armenia. It was the capital of the Bagratid Armenian kingdom that spanned much of modern-day Armenia and eastern Turkey between 961 and 1045.
What to See in Ani Turkey
It would take several days to completely explore the place. The key features, though, may be visited in half a day.
Some of the key sites include:
- the cathedral of Ani, completed in 1001 AD but shattered by a huge earthquake in 1319;
- Ebu’l Manuçehr Mosque, believed to be the first mosque in Anatolia, built-in 1072;
- Church of Tigran Honents (Church of St. Gregory), one of the best-preserved structures, containing unique frescoes and intricate architecture;
- Church of the Holy Redeemer, an iconic building that has been split in half by lightning; and
- the impressive city walls.
In addition to the aforementioned structures, there are numerous smaller structures, chapels, residences, baths, fortifications, and even a Silk Road caravanserai scattered throughout the huge archaeological complex. In 2016, UNESCO inscribed the Ani ruins on the World Heritage List.
Sumela Monastery
The 1000-year-old Monastery of the Virgin Mary at Sumela is one of Turkey’s most beautiful attractions. The monastery’s alpine setting, clinging to a sheer rock cliff in the midst of dense evergreen forests loud with the splash of chill mountain streams, comes as a surprise to those who think of Turkey as a land of rolling steppe.
NOTE: Once a year, on August 15th, a Greek Orthodox service is held at the monastery, and special permission from the Ecumenical Orthodox Patriarchate is required to enter.
How to get to Sumela Monastery?
There are multiple ways to get to the Sumela Monastery:
Driving Up to the Monastery from Trabzon
Follow signs for Sumela Manastery south on Highway E97/D885 to Maçka, then turn left onto a narrower road leading up into the gorge.
Altndere Valley National Park presently protects the territory surrounding the monastery. You’ll arrive at the park’s entrance, where you’ll pay a TL15 admission fee per car to enter.
You’ll pass multiple trout hatcheries that take advantage of the chilly mountain stream. Small restaurants serve fish lunches to hungry tourists.
You arrive at the cliff’s base, with the monastery towering above you. This is a little parking lot with various restaurants, tea shops, and free picnic tables perched just over the flowing stream—an enticing position.
Driving Up to the Monastery
You may drive or take a minibus dolmuş up the steep hill to the monastery. The route is small and twisty, with several blind bends and portions that can only accommodate one vehicle.
You’ll follow the stunning gorge and the creek, which you’ll cross on bridges several times along the way.
There is relatively limited parking near the top. You may need to park along the small road and walk the rest of the way to the monastery path.
Hiking Up to the Sumela Monastery
Explore the Sümela Monastery on a full-day tour with a guide. Experience a hike to a monastery, enjoy delicious cuisine from the Black Sea, admire views of Zigana Mountain, and much more.
You can hike up to the Sumela Monastery on your own as well, You can walk up to the monastery from the eateries at the bottom of the cliff if you want. It’s a 1-kilometer (6/10-mile) ascent that takes 35 to 45 minutes and rises 250 metres (820 feet).
Troy
A legendary city, Troy is a fascinating place to explore and learn about the city’s history. Uncover the legendary history of Troy, an ancient city immortalized by Homer’s epic tales. Wander through the archaeological site and discover the secrets of this fabled city.
Pergamon
Visit Pergamon, an ancient city boasting impressive historical ruins and breath-taking views. This ancient city was once home to one of the world’s most important libraries. Don’t miss the Pergamon Acropolis, Asclepion, and the Red Basilica.
The Acropolis of Pergamum (Pergamon) is undeniably impressive, located atop a towering, steep-sided hill to the northeast of the current city centre.
The Traianeum, or Temple of Trajan, is the most notable structure here, a massive marble temple that has been largely rebuilt from fragments discovered on the site.
Next to it lies the Temple of Athena, which has been largely rebuilt. Pergamum’s famous 200,000-volume library was located between the Traianeum and the Athena temple.
The Lycian Way Hiking Trail Turkey
Turkey’s first long-distance hiking route offers stunning views of the Mediterranean coastline. It is a 500-kilometer (311-mile) footpath from Fethiye to Antalya. The way-marked trail wanders up and down through ancient Lycia, Mediterranean Turkey‘s mountainous Tekke Peninsula.
The Basilica Cistern
Hundreds of gloomy Byzantine cisterns lay beneath Istanbul. They date back to the days when Istanbul was known as Constantinople. Most large and important Byzantine structures had water storage beneath them. The Basilica Cistern, so named because it was located beneath the Stoa Basilica, a large Byzantine public area, is the most impressive of all. It is also known as the Sunken Palace Cistern.
The Basilica Cistern is located in Sultanahmet Square, at the northeastern end of the Hippodrome, just off Divan Yolu, near several other tourist sites. Because it is close to the Blue Mosque and Ayasofya, you can easily combine your visits.
The best way to reach there is to take the tram to Sultanahmet / Blue Mosque station.
The Selimiye Mosque
This magnificent mosque in Edirne is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Konya’s Selimiye Mosque, located near to the Mevlâna Museum, is an example of Ottoman-style mosque architecture from the great Ottoman period. Sultan Selim II established the mosque while still an Ottoman prince and governor of the region of Konya. It was completed when he was appointed Sultan.
The Whirling Dervish Ceremony
This Sufi spiritual ceremony is a unique experience, offering visitors a glimpse into Turkey’s rich culture. The dervish singing and whirling lasts around one hour.
Every evening at 19:30, Mevlevi dervishes perform the whirling sema ceremony in the Hodjapasha Art & Culture Centre near Sirkeci Station, just down the hill from Sultanahmet.
The Hodjapasha Art & Culture Centre, housed in a renovated Ottoman edifice (originally a Turkish bath), provides an atmospheric setting worthy of the solemn rite; and tickets to performances at the Centre are simpler to obtain than at other venues.
The Maiden’s Tower
Also known as Leander’s Tower, this tower in Istanbul has a fascinating history and offers stunning views of the city. It translates to “Maiden’s Tower” in Turkish. The name stems from a mythology in which the Byzantine emperor heard a premonition that his beloved daughter would be killed by a snake when she was 18 years old. So he decided to put her in this tower built on a rock on the Bosphorus that was secluded from the rest of the world, so that no snake could harm her.
Mardin, Southeastern Turkey
This historic city is known for its stunning architecture, including well-preserved traditional houses and monasteries.
The city is built on a hilltop with a view of the Mesopotamian plains to the south. Mardin is located on one of the primary highways connecting Turkey to Syria and Iraq. According to legend, the city’s history dates back to the Flood. The Hurri-Mitani, Hittites, Surs, Babylonians, Persians, Romans, Arabs, and Seljuk Turks ruled over the city. Later, the Mardin branch of the Artuklu Kingdom called “Tabaka Ilgaziyye” was created, and the city flourished during this time.
The city was called “Marde” by the Persians, “Mardia” by the Byzantines, “Maridin” by the Arabs, and “Merde-Merdo-Merdi” by the Syriacs. These were renamed “Mardin” after the Turks took over the area.
Gallipoli
Pay tribute to World War I heroes at the Gallipoli Peninsula. Visit the battlefields, cemeteries, and memorials that honor the soldiers who fought during the Gallipoli Campaign.
“Beautiful city” is what Gallipoli means, and the city surely lives up to its moniker!
Gallipoli, located on the west Ionian coast of Puglia’s Salento peninsula, is not as well-known as its Turkish counterpart, the location of the terrible First World War fight, but its history is extensive and varied, its mediaeval town is a delight, and the beaches that flank it are spectacular.
The historic district is located on a small island connected to the mainland by a 17th-century bridge. It is almost fully surrounded by defensive walls, most of which were built in the 14th century.
The fortification on the east side dates from the 13th century but was completely rebuilt in the 1500s when the town fell under Angevin authority.
Mount Ararat
Embark on an adventure and attempt to conquer Mount Ararat, Turkey’s highest peak. This snow-capped mountain offers breath-taking views and an unforgettable hiking experience.
Mount Ararat, famous in the Bible as the last resting location of Noah’s Ark, has been enshrouded in tales for millennia. Its two peaks, Great Ararat (5137 meters/16,854 feet) and Little Ararat (3895 meters/12,779 feet), were adored by the ancient Urartu (13th to 7th century BC) people, who gave the mountain its name.
The closest settlement to the mountain is Doubayazt.
Ankara
Visit Turkey’s capital, Ankara, to explore its modern and ancient landmarks. Don’t miss the impressive Ataturk Mausoleum and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations.
What to See in Ankara Turkey
The majority of historic sites are concentrated on or near the steep hill crowned by Ankara’s ancient Hisar, including the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations.
Some of the key sites include:
- Museum of Anatolian Civilizations – This wonderful museum, housed in a mediaeval caravanserai preserving 7500 years of cultural splendour, is especially rich in art and artefacts from the Hittite era (2600 to 1300 BCE).
- Hisar (Citadel) – This hilltop stronghold, known as the kale, is the oldest section of Ankara. You may explore its enormous walls and climb to the top to appreciate the view, and you’ll find yourself in an authentic Turkish hamlet!
- Ahi Serafettin Mosque & Tomb – The Seljuk Turkish Ahi Serafettin Mosque & Tomb has stood on the citadel hill since 1290, however it was recently renovated. It is generally only open during prayer hours, so if you want to see this 700-year-old mosque, plan to arrive 15 to 20 minutes after the call to prayer.
- Hacı Bayram Mosque & Tomb – Hac Bayram Veli (1352-1430) was an Ankara-born Sufi (Muslim mystic) teacher. He became a disciple of Sheikh Hamiduddin Veli, and after the sheikh’s death in 1412, he acquired leadership of the sheikh’s followers, a Sufi order known as the Bayrami. Hac Bayram was a wise and learned counsellor of Sultan Murat II (1404-1451), father of Sultan Mehmet II “The Conqueror.”
- Roman Ruins in Ankara, Turkey – As proven by artefacts, Ankara was a significant Roman town. The massive Temple of Augustus and Rome is now mostly damaged, but it remains spectacular. The Column of Julian commemorates a visit to the city by that Roman emperor, and vestiges of Roman baths still exist.
Trabzon Turkey
Discover the enchanting city of Trabzon, nestled between the sea and green mountains. Explore its stunning Hagia Sophia Museum, Sumela Monastery , and Uzungol Lake.
Some of the key sites include:
- Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia) – The Hagia Sophia, a monument that transformed the path of Western architecture and served as the greatest church in Christendom for 1000 years, is one of Istanbul’s most recognisable attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
- Sumela Monastery – The monastery’s alpine setting, clinging to a sheer rock cliff in the midst of dense evergreen forests loud with the splash of chill mountain streams, comes as a surprise to those who think of Turkey as a land of rolling steppe.
- Uzungol Lake – Explore Uzungol Lake and the surrounding Black Sea Coast on a full-day guided bus tour from Trabzon. Sample Turkish tea, learn about Surmene knife making, and a discover historic Ottoman Bridge.
Ancient City Side
Unwind in Side, a picturesque resort town known for its Roman ruins. Explore the Temple of Apollo, ancient amphitheatre, and relax on its beautiful sandy beaches.
Side is an entirely different planet. It is one of Manavgat’s most well-known attractions. Some people advise spending an entire day in this town. Those who enjoy discovering every aspect of the ancient ruins may want to devote extra time to this place. However, Side provides little relief from the scorching summer sun, so consider visiting later in the day. After 5 p.m., the magnificence of the sunset begins.
Zeugma Mosaic Museum
Admire one of the world’s largest mosaic collections at the Zeugma Mosaic Museum in Gaziantep. Explore the intricate mosaics that tell stories of Greece and Rome.
The Roman mosaics rescued from the inundation of ancient Zeugma by a dam project are housed in the Archaeological Museum. The new museum, which cost $30 million to build expressly for the mosaics, debuted in 2011 and is just spectacular—a must-see. In fact, aside from the pistachios, it’s most likely the reason you’re in Gaziantep.
Tatvan, Lake Van
Tatvan was founded in the nineteenth century to serve the railway: when trains arrived from Istanbul and Ankara, the rail cars were loaded onto massive lake boats and transported across the vast salt Lake Van to the city of Van, from where some carriages carried on to Iran.
Uncover the mysteries of Lake Van, Turkey’s largest lake. Visit the stunning Akdamar Island and Van Castle, or simply relax on the lake’s tranquil shores
Some of the key sites include:
- Akdamar Island – Akdamar Island, also known as Aghtamar or Akhtamar, is the second largest of four islands in Lake Van in eastern Turkey.
- Castle of Van – The Fortress of Van is a gigantic stone stronghold built by the ancient kingdom of Urartu between the 9th and 7th century BC that is the largest example of its kind.
Turkey, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, offers endless possibilities for travellers in 2023. From the iconic city of Istanbul to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia and Pamukkale, the diverse attractions of this fascinating country will leave you with unforgettable memories. Make sure to include these top 24 best places to visit in Turkey during your travels in 2023, and embark on a journey like no other.
