If you are planning a Turkey trip, you are in for a treat! It offers a perfect blend of beaches, cultural sites, shopping hubs, and cruise destinations, making it one of the best places to visit in the world. Turkey is a haven for those seeking a vacation away from the hustle and bustle of city life, the constant noise of social media, and of course, the chaotic traffic. When it comes to choosing a vacation spot, it's not always easy. Our heart may crave a relaxing beach getaway, while our mind longs for a journey into history and culture. Finding a place that offers a combination of both is quite rare, but Turkey is one such gem. Tourist attractions in Turkey cater to various interests, especially for those in search of enriching adventure. Its quaint villages, unmatched cultural legacy and impressive coastline dotted with lovely beaches, is a sight to behold. Be it the best sightseeing places in Turkey or the things you can do, let’s ease the effort for you.
Best Things To Do In Turkey
Turkey, located in the Middle East, is a captivating and vibrant country that offers a fascinating vacation experience. With its rich history and diverse influences from the Greek, Roman, Ottoman, Persian, and Byzantine eras, there are numerous things to do and places to visit in Turkey. Cities like Ankara, Istanbul, and Cappadocia showcase the ancient heritage and tell stories of the past.
In addition to its historical significance, Turkey also has a rich cultural fabric that can be felt through its mosques and other well-preserved monuments. These structures bear witness to the passing of time and offer a glimpse into the traditions and customs of the people. Within a day, you can find yourself ascending the highest peaks in the country, and then floating on the salty waters of the Dead Sea. From ancient ruins to bustling modern cities, Turkey has something to offer to every traveller. Take a closer look at the list of best things to do when in Turkey:
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- Wash away your worries in a Turkish bath
- Sauna in thermal pools of Pamukkale
- A hot air balloon ride
- Spend some peaceful time at Süleymaniye Mosque, Istanbul
- Go and shop in the colourful bazaars
- Bosphorus Ferry Ride
- Witness the marine life
Wash Away Your Worries In A Turkish Bath
In an era when many homes did not have indoor plumbing, hamams, also known as Turkish baths, served as essential spaces for both cleanliness and social interaction. These days, visiting hamams is often reserved for special occasions and is more commonly enjoyed by tourists rather than locals. However, indulging in a hammam experience is still considered a luxurious treat that is well worth the time and money.
During a traditional hammam experience, you can enjoy a comprehensive treatment that includes a scrub and massage performed by an attendant of the same gender. Alternatively, you have the option to bathe yourself in the steamy chambers. The hamams' interiors, covered in marble and featuring sky-lit domes, are incredibly grand and visually amazing. Some of the most magnificent hamams include the Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamamı, the Cağaloğlu Hamamı, and the Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı in Istanbul. Not limited to Istanbul, the old Ottoman capital of Bursa also boasts hamams like Eski Kaplıca and Yeni Kaplıca, which offer pools fed by the natural thermal springs found in the area. Couples on their Turkey honeymoon shouldn’t miss this one.
Sauna In Thermal Pools Of Pamukkale
There are many things to do in Turkey, but visiting the Pamukkale's travertines should not be missed at all. The Pamukkale Thermal Pools are an incredibly rare and splendid sight that will leave you spellbound. The landscape is composed of white calcareous formations created by the thermal springs which are rich in limestone. This unique phenomenon results in the formation of potholes, stalactites, and cascades made of calcium deposits. As you take in the panoramic view of the expansive white landscape adorned with turquoise springs in different layers, against the backdrop of the blue sky, it truly enthrals the senses. These pools are filled with therapeutic water that is known to have healing properties for various ailments, including skin conditions, eye problems, rheumatism, and asthma, among others.
A Hot Air Balloon Ride
When you go on your next Turkey trip, you must take out some time to explore Cappadocia and take in the incredible adventure of hot-air ballooning. During the balloon ride, which typically lasts between 1 to 2 hours, you will be treated to breathtaking picturesque views of Cappadocia from high above in the sky. The sight of numerous hot-air balloons floating peacefully in the air adds to the marvel of the experience. For the most outstanding views, it is advised to schedule your hot-air balloon ride during sunrise or sunset when the lighting is at its most magical.
Spend Some Peaceful Time At Süleymaniye Mosque, Istanbul
Truly one of the most beautiful places in Turkey is Istanbul. A visit to the spectacular Suleymaniye Mosque is undoubtedly one of the most pleasing experiences you can have in Turkey. As you explore the mosque, you will be treated to extensive views of the city and a serene atmosphere that permeates the air. Perched on one of Turkey's seven hills, the Suleymaniye Mosque stands as a prominent landmark for the entire city. This architectural masterpiece was commissioned by Suleyman I, also known as Suleiman "The Magnificent."
True to its creator's name, the mosque boasts grandeur in both its beauty and size. Construction of the mosque took place between 1550 and 1557, resulting in an elegant and charismatic structure. The mosque also has many beautiful attractions in its surrounding area.
Moreover, you should definitely include a cruise ride on your list of things to do in Istanbul, Turkey. You can hop on and off at various points along the route to visit the included palaces, mosques, and other attractions.
Go And Shop In The Colourful Bazaars
Despite the rise of modern shopping malls and grocery stores, Turkey's traditional bazaar culture continues to thrive. In many historic city centres, you can find a çarşı, which is a shopping arcade or a labyrinthine marketplace district. These bustling areas are home to a wide array of vendors selling various items, ranging from inexpensive souvenirs to beautifully crafted leather or metal goods. While Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, known as the Kapalı Çarşı, is renowned worldwide, bazaars in cities such as Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa offer a more authentic and atmospheric feeling for visitors. These bazaars are a must-see when in Turkey. Vacationers can buy lovely souvenirs from here to take back with them.
Just as vibrant and significant in local daily life are the pazars, which are open-air markets where locals gather to buy fresh seasonal fruits, vegetables, and other food products, as well as clothing and household goods. These markets can be found in various locations depending on the town or city neighbourhood, whether it's on the streets with rigged-up tarps, an emptied parking lot or garage, or a purpose-built structure. The pazars are held on specific days of the week in different areas, and they are lively and budget-friendly places to purchase everyday essentials or simply enjoy strolling and exploring.
Bosphorus Ferry Ride
Imagine a place where the Black Sea merges with the Mediterranean Sea, and the iconic Rumeli Fortress stands tall, offering breathtaking views of the Galata Bridge in the distance. This is the magical setting of the Bosphorus, where you can witness the most stunning panoramic view of the cityscape. Taking a ferry ride is the perfect way to absorb this extraordinary geographical location, which is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. The views are truly extraordinary and will leave you in awe. To ensure you don't miss out, it's advisable to visit the site in advance and secure a seat for this unforgettable journey. Definitely not to be missed on your next Turkey trip.
Witness The Marine Life
When in Turkey one of the best things to do is see marine life. Famed as one of Europe's largest underwater worlds, Aqua Vega Aquarium boasts the distinction of housing the third-largest tunnel aquarium. It is an ideal destination for families looking to spend quality time together. The aquarium showcases a remarkable array of exotic sea creatures from around the globe. Visitors can explore various exhibits, including the Sea Shell Museum, Jungle Corner, Adrenaline World, and more. These exhibits provide an up-close view of fascinating marine life, such as sharks, napoleon fish, clownfish, koi fish, and many other captivating species.
The cultural and historical wealth of Turkey is astonishing. Explore the timeless ruins, be awed by the breathtaking landscapes, indulge in the delicious regional food, and relax on the warm sands of Turkey's beaches as you cross each top attraction off your list. Plan your trip to Turkey, pack your bags and enjoy some time with friends and family.
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