Turkey has some of the most famous tourist attractions in Europe and Asia, and attracts travelers from all around the globe every year. If you are planning your next trip and your heart and mind are all over all the place demanding all different sorts of excitement then Turkey is a rare gem of a country you might be looking for.
Several ancient civilizations have left their marks on this country in the form of imperial sites and awe-inspiring ruins. Turkey is embellished with breathtaking coastline, mesmerizing landscapes, Roman ruins, rich cultural legacy, and famous cuisine. Whether you want to lay back on a beach and enjoy the sun on your skin or absorb the scenery from heights by climbing a peak, Turkey has got you covered.
With these many options available to choose from it might become difficult to decide which place to visit first. To help you make this decision easier, we have brought together a list of the 3 famous tourist attractions in Turkey you can pay a visit to on your next trip.
Istanbul
Straddling across Asia and Europe, this city is a beautiful combination of the East and the West. One of the world’s greatest metropolises, Istanbul was founded around 1000BC and has since been under the rule of different empires.
Founded as the colony of Byzantium, it later became the capital of Constantinople and retained its gloriousplace after coming under Ottoman Empire. Signs of the historical empires can still be seen in this
city in the form of sublime monuments.
From this list of tourist attractions in Turkey, majority of the attraction areas is present in Istanbul, including the Hagia Sophia Mosque, Topkapı Palace, the Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazar.
- The Hagia Sophia Mosque
Built as a church in CE 536, the Hagia Sophia was changed into a mosque after the Ottoman Empire conquered Constantinople. Known as Aya Sofya in the local language, this majestic building was converted into a museum in the 20th century. In 2020 Hagia Sophia was once again converted to a mosque and is currently holding this status.
- Topkapı Palace
Built in the 15th century, this historical architecture showcases a dazzling display of Islamic art, with its courtyard embellished with hand-painted tiles, Harem Complex, Imperial Treasury, and an awe-creating collection of Prophet Muhammad’s relics.
- The Blue Mosque
Sultan Ahmet Cami, commonly known as Blue Mosque (due to its thousands of Iznik tiles), is considered a grand gift from Sultan Ahmet to its capital. Having 6 minarets, this beautiful piece of Ottoman Architecture was built from 1609 to 1616 and is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Turkey.
Cappadocia
Cappadocia is on the top of every traveler’s tour list for all the right reasons. This city of fairytale beauty is famously known for its hot air balloon rides all over the world. Embellished with wonderful volcanic rocks carved by wind and water, this city has some mesmerizing Cappadocian villages, complex underground cities, and valleys to enjoy hiking and horse riding.
- Fairy Chimneys
Fairy Chimneys are one of the most famous tourist attractions in Turkey that you should not miss. When ash from volcanic eruptions solidified, the erosion process started and after millions of years was carved into magical pillars standing as tall as 130 feet.
What might seem ordinary to the locals, these Fairy Chimneys are nothing but a wonder for the tourists.
- Caves
Cappadocia provides its tourist a very unique experience of living in a cave. The soft sandstone made it possible for the local residents to carve out their homes in it. You can live in a cave hotel while staying in this city and have once in a lifetime experience.
- Uchisar Castle
Uchisar Castle also called the Ugly Castle due to its crassly shaped plain exterior, is located in Uchisar village and is the highest point in the area. Unlike traditional castles of the UK, Uchisar Castle does not have any architectural heritage, antiquities, or art collection. Instead, it gives you a chance to admire the beauty of Cappadocia city from above.
Antalya
Located 435 miles south of Istanbul, the city of Antalya is well-known for its beautiful beaches and the Old Town. Due to its turquoise-colored beautiful waters, this Turkish Riviera is also aptly called Turquoise Coastline.
But beaches aren’t the only highlight of this one of the most famous tourist attractions in Turkey. With increasing numbers of shopping malls, luxury hotels, and beach clubs, this city is developing at a rapid rate.
- Beaches
With the swimming season lasting from May to October, the beaches of Antalya work like a magnet for sea addicts. With clear, turquoise, glittering waters and sunny sky, these sandy beaches are breathtaking relaxation spots for tourists.
- Roman Ruins
With the remnants of Roman architectural glory scattered all over the city, Antalya is the second most visited travel destination of Turkey with about 14 million tourists coming to this city every summer.
If you travel around the city you will get to see the amazing ancient sites like Perge, Termessos, and Aspendos. You can stay in the Ottoman houses of old district Kaleiçi, away from the bustling modern city, and enjoy walking in quiet, historic streets.
- Kaleiçi District
Once you enter Hadrian’s Gate you step into the old town of Turkey, known as “Kaleiçi” (inside the city’s walls), by the locals. Taking a stroll in the narrow streets of this amazing town gives you a chance to step into history in modern times.
Built in the Hellenistic era, this Roman town changed into Byzantine, then Seljuk Turkish, and ultimately into an Ottoman town. This ancient town also houses some ancient relics and wonderful attractions like Yivli and Kesik Minarets.
Conclusion
The most famous tourist attractions in Turkey can hardly be adjusted in one list. This is how diverse experiences this country has to offer to its guests. One thing is for sure if you decide to take a trip to Turkey you will be anything but disappointed.
