Top 11 Must-See Attractions in Istanbul, Turkey
A comprehensive guide to the finest experiences in Istanbul, tailored for discerning travelers.
A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
A comprehensive guide to the finest experiences in Istanbul, tailored for discerning travelers.
Turkey is an expansive and remarkably beautiful nation to explore. For first-time visitors, the multitude of extraordinary destinations makes it evident that there is no shortage of remarkable places in Turkey awaiting discovery.
On February 6, 2023, Turkey experienced one of the most devastating events in its recent history: a pair of earthquakes with magnitudes of 7.8 and 7.5 that struck the southeastern region. Tragically, these disasters claimed the lives of over 50,000 people across 11 provinces, leaving behind significant destruction. With more than 160,000 buildings severely damaged or destroyed, the catastrophic effects are still palpable throughout the nation.
With mountains, deserts, seashores, and cities among its diverse offerings, there’s almost always a great place to explore in Turkey, no matter the time of year.
Türkiye’s appeal lies in so many places, from Istanbul’s iconic attractions to the sun-soaked beaches and bazaars of Izmir and the otherworldly Cappadocia, with its cave hotels and hot air balloon rides. With such diverse choices, deciding where to start your Turkish adventure can be tricky. However, if you’re seeking to experience a more laid-back Türkiye through the eyes of the locals, there are numerous destinations worth exploring.
With its scenic coastlines, rugged mountains, peaceful villages, and dramatic natural features, Turkey is a hiker’s dream – if you’re prepared for a bit of an adventure.
Whether your ideal vacation involves sunbathing on a Mediterranean beach, trekking in rugged mountains, or learning more about the complex cultural layers laid down over thousands of years of history, Turkey has options to entice every kind of traveler.
From the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean to the rugged, rocky shores of the Black Sea, Turkey abounds in beaches (plajlar) along its coasts, which border four different seas.
From towering peaks to deep canyons, sparkling coastlines to dense forests, Turkey offers a wealth of natural beauty juxtaposed with its world-famous historical sites.
Stretching from the Aegean Sea to the Caucasus Mountains, Turkey covers an area larger than Texas. Fortunately, it is well-connected by domestic flights and buses, although less so by rail.
After departing from the secluded beach and making my way back to the hotel, I took some time to leisurely explorethe hotel grounds, a cocktail in one hand and my camera in the other. Perhaps it was wine, but either way, it complemented the sunset beautifully, which was truly what mattered.
True or false: There’s a city in Turkey called Batman. Any guesses?