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Turkey is one of the few countries nearby that offers a wide range of essential travel experiences.
The nation experiences warm temperatures throughout the year and boasts stunning coastal regions, famous landmarks, lively party destinations, and a diverse selection of cities.
The fact that Turkey is a popular holiday spot is well-known, but not many people are aware of the diversity found within its cities.
Istanbul is often the initial introduction to the country for tourists, as it offers a fast-paced lifestyle and a diverse array of activities, leaving a lasting impression of Turkey for many visitors.
The Turquoise Coast boasts cities like Bodrum and Antalya, which blend rich history with stunning coastal landscapes. Additionally, Ankara’s lively atmosphere continues to draw both Turkish and international tourists to the capital.
It can be challenging to decide on a destination in such a vast and beautiful country with many captivating cities. To assist with planning your next Turkish journey, we have compiled a list of the top cities to visit.
Foreign tourists visit Istanbul the most out of all Turkish cities.
Istanbul, with a population of approximately 16 million, is a bustling city that never seems to rest. It is divided by the green waters of the Bosphorus Strait, where two continents come together. This blend of diverse cultures has resulted in a lively city with a lively pace of life that can sometimes feel chaotic.
Istanbul, a city with a rich past encompassing both European and Asian influences, has been ruled by three empires for nearly 3000 years. Despite the passage of time, traces of these diverse cultures can still be found throughout the city. The Sultanahmet district, in particular, showcases the strong presence of Ottoman and Byzantine influences and houses many popular tourist attractions.
Some of the most notable landmarks in this district include the Blue Mosque, known for its tall minarets, and the Hagia Sophia, which was initially built as a church but later converted into a mosque, demonstrating the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the city. Other popular places to visit in this area are the Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern, but it is also worth venturing out to other neighborhoods such as Balat and Fener.
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Antalya is the fifth most populous city in the country
Each year, Antalya and Istanbul both vie for the distinction of being the most popular city in Turkey. Despite being much smaller, Antalya, the capital of the Turquoise Coast, holds its own in terms of tourism with its charming Old Town, picturesque harbor, and numerous stunning beaches in the surrounding area.
Some of the best nearby beaches include Cirali, Konyaalti and Patara, and while many choose to stay in one of the various beachfront resorts that populate the surrounding coastline, exploring Antalya itself is certainly worth leaving your sun lounger for.
The lovely Old Town, also called Kaleici, is made up of winding streets that feature mosques, historic walls, reddish-brown stone structures, and parks that showcase the impact of Ottoman culture and design. These small pathways lead to a picturesque harbor where many cafes and restaurants are open for visitors day and night.
Bodrum used to be the location of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Bodrum is renowned for being the perfect destination for a Turkish summer vacation. Nestled amidst picturesque green hills, it boasts a desirable coastline, beautiful beaches such as Yahsi and Aspat, numerous tourist attractions, and a vibrant nightlife for those looking to indulge.
There are various types of resorts available in Bodrum, ranging from luxurious and expensive to budget-friendly and suitable for families. These resorts cater to a diverse range of tourists, whether you are interested in lively parties on the marina or want to discover the history of the region. Bodrum also offers numerous opportunities to explore its past, as it was formerly known as Halicarnassus. The city still boasts a mausoleum, ancient ruins, a Roman theatre, and the 700-year-old Bodrum Castle.
Like any coastal tourist city, there’s plenty more to see and do in Bodrum away from ruins and sun loungers. Scuba diving is a popular activity in nearby Gokova Bay, while boat trips around the peninsula or the Dalyan River are a good way to spend an afternoon, as is wine tasting at Karnas Vineyards. The town’s proximity to Kos means that tourists and locals alike will often spend the day in Greece too.
In 1923, Ankara was officially designated as the capital of Turkey.
Ankara, the capital of Turkey, may not have the same fame as Istanbul, but it provides a unique perspective on the country. It offers a break from the hustle and bustle of busy urban centers and the lively coastal tourist destinations. The city is a blend of tradition and modernity, influenced by its recent rise as a prominent metropolis. Its dynamic atmosphere is reflected in neighborhoods like Kizilay, which caters to a younger crowd, and Kavaklidere, known for its upscale establishments.
However, Ataturk has made a conscious effort to remember its history. Standing tall above the city is the Anit Kabir, a large tomb honoring the founder of modern Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. He led the War of Independence and established the city as the capital. In the lower area of Hisar, there are Roman structures, such as those in Ulus, next to Byzantine fortress walls that encircle small Ottoman villages. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and the Museum of the War of Independence are notable historical landmarks, and Kugulu and Genclik parks offer a refreshing touch of greenery.
Izmir is home to around 4.5 million people
Izmir is sometimes overlooked in favour of nearby Bodrum or Marmaris, but Turkey’s third largest city is home to plenty of arts, culture and a rich heritage to add to the idyllic coastlines of Cesme, Alacati and Urla.
The history of the city was defined by the bustling area near the Bay of Izmir, Konak Pier, and the beautiful waterfront known as “kordon.” However, the current emblem of the city is the 20th-century Clock Tower.
It is located in the middle of Konak Square, in the district of the same name, which is also the starting point of the mazy, 17th
The Kemeralti Market, which dates back to the 17th century, is a popular Turkish market that extends throughout the city and connects to the Roman Agora. The historic Kadifekale castle is another significant landmark in the area.
Edirne served as the capital of the Ottoman Empire prior to Constantinople.
Situated on the boundary between Greece and Bulgaria, Edirne is a city that exudes more of a European atmosphere compared to its Turkish counterparts. However, the city’s architecture, mosques, bazaars, and Palace serve as a constant reminder of its past as a former Ottoman capital.
The city of Edirne is situated on the banks of the Maritza and Tunca rivers, surrounded by lush plains and featuring similar white-washed, russet-roofed buildings as Antalya and other European and Mediterranean cities. The most notable landmark in Edirne is the Selimiye Mosque, built in the 16th century and recognized as a Unesco World Heritage Site. Other mosques, including Muradiye, Old Mosque, and the Sultan Beyazit II Complex, are also prominent features of the city’s skyline. The Tunca River is dotted with several bridges that date back to the Ottoman era and offer a peaceful spot for summertime relaxation and swimming.
There are consistent ferry services available between Marmaris and the Greek islands of Rhodes and Symi.
Marmaris is a popular coastal town, welcoming thousands of tourists every summer despite its modest size. Aesthetically, it benefits from a striking location, found on the shores of the Aegean Sea and surrounded by dense forest and towering hills, with coastline that is home to golden sand lapped by azure waters along beaches like Urban or Long Beach.
Similar to Antalya, the town starts at its harbor filled with yachts, with a complex network of small roads gradually winding into the Old Town, which is characterized by an abundance of red roofs and whitewashed structures. It is recommended to visit Marmaris Castle, the museum, the bazaar, and Jinan Gardens to experience the town’s history, do some shopping, and enjoy a leisurely walk. The day can be concluded at Bar Street, appropriately named as it is the hub of the city’s lively nightlife.
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The Independent is a British online news publication.
The Independent is an online news publication based in Britain.
