We have a number of options to choose from to create a vacation that’s perfect for you, from budget to accommodation style. Cruising along the Bosphorus, whether by hopping local ferries, on a tourist ferry cruise, or a private boat, is one of the great tourist attractions of an Istanbul stay. Turkey has an abundance of Greco-Roman ruins, but none can be so romantically placed as ancient Pergamum in modern-day Bergama. If the beach gets too crowded, it’s time to take to the skies and experience the stunning aerial views on a tandem paragliding dive off the summit of mighty Babadağ (Mount Baba), which rises up behind the shore. One of the most famous trips is known as the Blue Cruise and travels from Fethiye south down the coast until disembarking near Olympos, home to the famous natural phenomenon of the Chimaera. Turkey’s Mediterranean coastline has ruins galore and many things to do, but for many people, it’s all about soaking up the sun while enjoying the gorgeous coastal views.
Turkish capital Ankara is home to two of the country’s most important monuments. Konya is where the whirling dervishes began, foodie visitors head to Gaziantep simply to eat its world-renowned baklava and to Bursa to sample its Iskender kebap, and Safranbolu is a painstakingly preserved Ottoman-era old town. With less time up your sleeve at the end of this trip, head direct from Adana, north to Cappadocia, and follow the Cappadocia itinerary. Kızkalesi beach is framed by Corycus Castle, while just offshore is the island holding Kızkalesi Castle, which is the attraction everyone is here to see. But the countryside both west and east of town is littered with ruins.
The bustling marina town of Fethiye is another excellent base along the coast and we recommend a one-night stopover en route to Pamukkale. You can reduce the time by flying to Cappadocia or simple Viaggi in Turchia flying to Antalya and driving back to Istanbul via the coast road. Having crafted over 10,000 personalized itineraries, we help you design a trip that perfectly fits your travel dreams.
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Crossing the Bosphorus in a small public ferry, you’ll get great views over the two sides of the city and usually a taste of more modern Turkish music thanks to a resident busker. Still on the European side, you should visit the famous Galata Tower where the first unpowered flight took place from the tower across the Bosphorus and enjoy the wonderful views over the rooftops to the sea. Visit the enormous and beautifully decorated Blue Mosque built in the 17th century by order of Sultan Ahmet who is laid to rest with his family in a mausoleum within the gardens. Then a short walk away is Istanbul’s most famous and one of its oldest attractions, the Hagia Sophia. Following the Western coastline from Istanbul to Antalya before heading inland to Cappadocia, our itinerary will show you some of the country’s highlights and best-kept secrets.
Friendly staff, social common areas, and a convenient location for exploring the city and beaches. Another option would be to rent a car in Istanbul and make the 6 hour drive. From Denizli, you will need to get on a minibus to complete the 30 min drive to Pamukkale.
Beautiful Places In Turkey: Lesser-known Or Hidden Gems
In more remote areas, locals wear more conservative attire, so it’s best to follow suit and wear clothing that covers your shoulders to your knees – think long trousers or a skirt, a T-shirt and an overshirt or scarf. Travellers from some nationalities can travel to Turkey without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Other travellers must apply for a visa online or through a Turkish embassy or consulate before travelling.
With 10 days, you can tour Istanbul, explore the fairytale land of Cappadocia, and visit the ancient Roman ruins of Ephesus. Highlights of this Turkey itinerary include a visit to the Hagia Sophia, shopping in the Grand Bazaar, hiking in Cappadocia, and a magical hot air balloon ride, if you so desire. About 90% of our Turkey tours kick off from Istanbul, which makes perfect sense – it’s literally where Europe meets Asia and has great flight connections from everywhere. While you can start from places like Fethiye or Kusadasi on the coast, Istanbul’s mix of Byzantine and Ottoman history makes it an ideal first stop.
If you plan to enter several attractions, then consider getting a Museum Pass. Most people find Istanbul the best part of Turkey to go to with its rich history and abundant ancient landmarks, range of restaurants, bars, and shops, and bustling atmosphere with busy markets and displays of true Turkish culture. Located on the Aegean coast with rich Greco-Roman heritage and Ottoman Empire roots, Izmir is an awesome place to visit in Turkey with a number of important archaeological sites, museums, and gorgeous views over the Aegean Sea.
Get the real picture with both traveler and expert reviews to ensure the trip you book is the right one for you. Ancient history, beautiful coastlines, Turkish Baths, friendly people, gorgeous food The Wow moment was t…
Spend nearly 2 weeks touring Turkey’s premier sites with a private-guide. Discover stunning ruins and beaches and natural parks, Explore other magnificent ancient cities along the Aegean coast, Cruise by the wooden gulets (traditional Turkish boats) with swimming & snorkeling. The region is also home to the ancient ruins of Troy (with a standout museum) and the spectacularly sited hilltop acropolis of Bergama. When you’re done with history, romance blossoms in the area’s cozy cave hotels and restaurants, not to mention early morning balloon rides topped off with a champagne toast at sunrise. On the ground, adventure awaits amid the green valleys and undulating outcrops for hikers, mountain bikers and trail runners. The Old Town (Çarşı) offers a range of boutique hotels and guesthouses that are right in the center of the action.
The beach is nestled next to the ancient city of Patara, an important Lycian settlement and a thriving port in the past. Here, visitors can explore the remnants of this ancient civilization, including the grand arch of the city gate and the well-preserved theater. The city has both Greek and Roman history dating back to the 10th century BC.