There is a rich heritage of the ancient civilization in Turkey. It is one of the most attractive tourist spots in the world with numerous UNESCO World heritage sites, and amazing culture and tradition. Every place tells an interesting story, and if you travel to learn, you will never ran of something informative in the place. There, you can experience the country’s finest foods, meet awesome people and share the way of their life.
So take the journey that will lead you to the beautiful island rich in in history and famous for its best cuisines—Turkey.
Turkey as a Tourist Spot
Before starting your enthralling journey, it helps to know a just a little about the country’s information.
Turkey is rich in historical sites that boast exotic beauty. There are about 31.5 million of foreigners visiting the land for a tour vacation and it is ranked in the world as 6th most visited tourist destination according to UN.
The country’s most economically developed and most visited part of the land can be found in Western Turkey. The imperial city, the capital Istanbul, is one of the best places to visit with a long list of mind-blowing national attractions of ancient ruins of buildings and religious shrines. The city is combined with the influence of Middle East and Mediterranean, a fusion of Balkans and Central Asia.
Also in Istanbul are the wondrous Roman temples and theaters to be found in the ancient Hittite cities. However, aside from the beautiful ancient cities, the friendliness and generosity of Turkish people can make your travel a more pleasurable one.
In the South of Turkey, what awaits are the classical characters of north Aegean with its popular coast and rocky beaches. Travelers can’t help but to be mesmerized with the enthralling beauty that surrounds the exotic destination.
Places You Must Not Miss in Turkey
As what we mentioned above, you will never run out of places to visit in Turkey. However, we would like to help you choose the destinations that promises loads of fun. We enumerate some of the most popular and lovely spots you must go in the country.
1. Ankara
The second largest city in Turkey following Istanbul, Ankara is the nation’s capital. It is home to the government buildings, myriad of commercial sites, and Turkey’s most popular universities. Ankara itself offers plenty of sight-seein activities as arts and culture abound in its large museums that includes the fascinating Museum of Anatolian Civilizations.
2. Mardin
Mardin, located at southeastern Turkey, Mardin overlooks a Mesopotamian plain. It is known for its cultural diversity being the home of Syriacs, people who trace their roots to the Akkadian Empire. Its old city that is comprised of sandstone buildings in a hillside citadel is quite a view to marvel especially if you are history fan.
3. Konya
Konya is located in Central Anatolia in Turkey. It is one of the oldest cities in the world and is popular for the Seljuk architecture. Visiting this place in Turkey will get you inspired for its architectural heritage. Set your feet into the admirable Mausoleum of Rumi and ruins of Seljuk Palace.
4. Antalya
A vibrant city along the scenic Mediterranean coastline, Antalya welcomes its visitors with peace and beauty. Once called as Attalia in the 150 BC, the city has been host to notable people in our history such as St. Paul the Apostle and Ibn Battuta among others. Antalya is a picture of verdant mountains and turquoise waters, but there are an array of hotels, bars, restaurants, and resorts to rest every travelers feet.
5. Bodrum
If you want to complete a one of a kind travel in Turkey, you should not miss the ancient city of Bodrum, the site of the historical city of Halikarnassus where the “Mausoleum of Halikarnassus” can be found. The Mausoleum is one of the “Seven Wonders of The Ancient World,” and is truly a destination to consider.
6. The Ephesus
A popular place in the Bible, the Greek city of Ephesus is one of the largest cities in the Roman Empire way back in 1st century B. C. Here lies the “Temple of Artemis,” that is also one of the “Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.” Ephesus is a place of true delight for students and people who want to travel their way back in time.
7. Cappadocia
Stunning and unique, that is Cappadocia in the Central Anatolia of Turkey. Adventure lovers will surely marvel with the place’s charm as it showcases hills, canyons, underground cities, and houses creatively carved in rocks.
8. Istanbul
Do not leave Turkey without exploring its largest city—Istanbul. Though the country established its capital in Ankara, majestic palaces, mosques, and myriad of historical sites can be found best in Istanbul. The city bridges Asia and Europe, and aside from its beautiful places, you can try a lot of activities and the best of Turkish food.
Try the Delicious Turkish Food
Complete your travel in Turkey by tasting its unique cuisine. From the delicious traditional kebabs, Turkish coffee, and many mouth-watering dishes, the country is also the best place in the world to quench your hunger for gourmet dishes. There are some hotels offering the best dishes of Turkish cuisine, such as the La Mouette, Lokanta Maya, Rumelihisari Iskele to give you the fine taste of unforgettable Turkish dining.
So what are you waiting for? Prepare your backpacks, and start the spectacular journey in Turkey’s stunning places. With beautiful white beaches, ancient ruins and historic places, and good people to mingle with. Your visit in Turkey could be your unforgettable vacation in a lifetime.