20 Best Places To Visit In Turkey That Must Be On Your Itinerary In 2020
Nusretiye Clock Tower
Nusretiye Clock Tower, also known as Tophane Clock Tower, is one of the major landmark structures from history as well as one of the must visit places in Turkey. It still stands strong next to the beautiful Nusretiye Mosque. This neoclassical tower was completed in 1848. The 15-meter tall Tophane Clock Tower is four-sided and has 3 floors. Surrounded by lush green lawns, grand time-piece has its own charm.
Rüstem Pasha Mosque
Rustam Pasha Mosque is one of the most mind-blowing architectural structures you would see in Turkey. This grand building was designed by Mimar Sinan, an Ottoman imperial architect, and was opened in 1563. This magnificent granite and marble structure has a main dome that has been placed upon 4 semi-domes. A major highlight of Rustam Pasha Mosque is its beautiful decor of traditional iznik tiles. These tiles display a variety of intricate blue floral art. Another highlight is its simple yet massive chandeliers hanging from its high ceiling.
Rumeli Fortress
Rumeli Fortress also known as Boğazkesen Castle or Rumelihisarı is a spectacular fort on hills at the European banks of River Bosphorus. This Ottaman structure was built in 1452. It is one of the most popular Turkey tourist attractions. The fort has 3 large towers, a small tower, and 13 other smaller towers. This huge castle offers a mesmerising view of the river. Its open-air space now serves as a stunning venue for various art festivals and concerts.
Harbour District
Also known as Antalya Marina, Harbour District is where you will find many fishermen and it is also counted among Turkey famous places. But the main attraction is that you will find many cafes and stalls here where you can indulge in some really delectable delicacies and can also try authentic Turkish Cuisine. This is one of the most popular places to visit in Turkey and you can have a good time here.
Kursunlu Waterfalls
Defining the terms magical and refreshing perfectly, Kursunlu Waterfall is one of the most beautiful sight that one would ever behold. With hues of blue and green shimmering in the waters of this waterfall, this spot attracts flocks of travelers. The waterfall is sitting on a terrain rich flora. The waterfalls also house a small pool where one can encounter freshwater tortoises, crabs, and fishes.
Antalya Aquarium
One of the famous and longest tunnel aquariums in the world, Antalya Aquarium offers education, entertainment, and inspiration all in one place. The aquarium houses a total of 40 thematic aquariums and a 131 meters long tunnel aquarium, the longest one in the world. Antalya Aquarium is not just about the magnificent underwater water of Turkey, it also blankets Snow World, Ice Museum, WildPark, and many more interesting features.
The Blue Mosque
Attracting tourists with its splendid blue interiors, Blue Mosque or Sultan Ahmed Mosque was built during the Ottoman era by a sultan. The mosque is standing right across Hagia Sophia, making it one of the best places to visit in Turkey. Blue Mosque is home to two courtyards- inner and outer. The inner courtyard is surrounded by porticos that showcase small domes along with a marble-paved path.
Suleymaniye Mosque
An Ottoman imperial mosque, Suleymaniye mosque in Istanbul is quite famous and a must visit attraction in Turkey. Built in 1557, this mosque offers beautiful views of Golden Corn and Bosphorous. The size of this mosque might be perplexing but it is one of the most unique features of this mosque.
Duden Waterfalls
One of the prettiest waterfalls in turkey , the Duden Waterfalls is magnificent and a place that you must not miss out on your Turkey trip. With large volcanic mountains surrounding the cave and the river bed the place looks nothing less than magic. An interesting fact about the place is that it is formed by recycling station water.
Kusadasi Castle
When you are visiting Kusadasi you cannot miss out on this beautiful castle which sits on top of the island. It was mainly used as a fort which helped the Ottomans to keep away from the enemies. You can have a serene day out there enjoying the view of the ocean. Kusadasi Castle is one of the most amazing must see places in Turkey.
Ladies’ Beach
Don’t go by the name as men can visit and have fun this beach anytime. If you want to enjoy sunbathing, go to this beach and also don’t miss the beach activities over there. Ladies’s Beach is one of the beautiful places in Turkey for spending some time in calm.
Trabzon
The place is spread from the Sinope in the West to the Georgia in the East, and is the largest city in the entire Eastern Karadeniz region of the country. The covered area is approximately 4664 square kms and is nestled amongst the mighty mountains, greenery, forests, rivers and every beautiful creation of nature. Trabzon is also famous for its fish and soccer team.
Mardin
Mardin is an enchanting city situated on the Southeastern Anatolia, Turkey. The city is demonstrating an architectural heritage, cultural wealth, and religious diversity. Mardin was built by Hamdanis in 975-976. The citadel of Mardin with its excellent stonework stands on a hill dominating the city. This is amongst the best cities to visit in Turkey. This highly addictive tourist spot records over 4 million visitors annually. The Ulu Mosque, Forty Martyrs Church, Kasımiye Medresesi, and Zinciriye Medresesi are some of the notable places to visit in Mardin.
Akdamar Island
Situated in the Salty Lake Van, Akdamar Island is famous mainly for its Holy Cross, Church, and other Armenian Monastery which stay ruined, but still have its glory retained. The famous Akdamar Church is now transformed into a museum, and there are many bas relief carvings on the exterior walls. The carving depicts the Biblical scenes with Adam, Eve, Abraham, Jesun, David and, Goliath. With breathtaking adjacent areas, the Island is surrounded by steep rocks. It also offers a mesmerizing view with almond trees blooming in spring months making it one of the best places to visit in Turkey.
Marmaris
Another best places to visit in Turkey is Marmaris. The Thomson cruises start-off at Marmaris. It gives a tour of almost all prominent places to see in Turkey – Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque and others. Marmaris showcases magnificent views of the Turkish waters that is bound to take the breath away of spectators.
The City Of Ephesus
Wondering what to see in Turkey that isn’t crowded and cliched? The ancient city Ephesus located in Selcuk, a small town 30 km away from Kusadasi, is your best bet. An active commercial center once, it is now among the best places to go in Turkey now. This is amongst the best places to visit in Turkey. Though most of it is in ruins, some structures like The Great Theatre and the Library of Celsus can still be seen.
Cappadocia
One of the best places to visit in Turkey, Cappadocia is the result of a volcanic eruption. Explore the place with a horse ride, take an air balloon ride, and don’t forget to sip on Turkish tea. It is one of the best cities in Turkey that will leave you in awe of it. This is one place you must surely explore if you are visiting or October.
Patara
A must among places to see in Turkey is Patara, the longest beach in Turkey. There are a few reasonably priced beach cafés with umbrellas and sunbeds for hire here if you’re wondering what to see in Turkey once you’re at this beach. Also if you’re lucky, you can witness a sunset and moonrise at the same time from the top of a dune. Absolutely enchanting!
Butterfly Valley
Unleash the bohemian in you in the charming Butterfly Valley, one of the best places to visit in Turkey. You can laze around in a hammock, sip your favorite drink and enjoy campfire and music at the Rock Bar. It is one of the famous Turkey tourist attractions.
Kabak Bay
If you want some hippie vibe, check out the tranquil Kabak Bay. To visit the Kabak Valley near Fethiye, hire a taxi to enjoy the jaw-dropping beauty. Or if you’re adventurous at heart, you can always opt for a day hike. It is one of the most beautiful and famous places in Turkey.