If you have ever dreamed of visiting Turkey but weren’t sure where to start, this post is for you. Keep reading to discover the best places to go on holiday in Turkey and make the most of your Turkish getaway!
Unveiling the best places to go on holiday in Turkey
Are you seeking an unforgettable holiday experience that combines captivating history, breathtaking natural landscapes, and warm hospitality? Look no further than Turkey, a country that effortlessly blends the charm of its rich heritage with the allure of its stunning destinations.
In this post, we will dive into the best places to go on holiday in Turkey, highlighting the unmissable attractions and providing essential travel insights. Whether you are an avid adventurer, a history enthusiast, or simply in search of a relaxing beach getaway, Turkey has something remarkable for everyone.
To embark on an enchanting journey through the top places to holiday in Turkey, let’s look at the possibilities and discover the perfect spot that suits you.
The best places to go on holiday in Turkey
1. Istanbul: Where East Meets West
First and foremost, let’s check out Istanbul. A city steeped in history and crowned with a vibrant blend of cultures. This mesmerising metropolis serves as the perfect introduction to the best places to go on holiday in Turkey.
Explore the iconic Hagia Sophia, a testament to Byzantine architecture, and immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Topkapi Palace. Stroll through the bustling Grand Bazaar, where the scent of exotic spices fills the air, and indulge in mouthwatering Turkish cuisine at local eateries. With its vibrant energy and architectural marvels, Istanbul will leave an indelible mark on your heart.
➜ Hagia Sofia
Hagia Sophia is a historic, iconic site that served as an Orthodox Cathedral and was eventually converted into a mosque. Over the years, it has earned a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list, which possesses historic importance. Visitors can observe the unique monument that bestrides religion and the hands of time.
➜ The Grand Bazaar
Your trip to Turkey wouldn’t be complete if you don’t pay a visit to The Grand Bazaar for some souvenir shopping. This is one of the world’s most traditional and largest markets, and it should not be missed when you’re on holiday in Turkey.
➜ The Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque, also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of the most significant and iconic tourist destinations in Istanbul. An age-old architectural marvel studded with over 20,000 handmade unique ceramic tiles! Paying a visit to this place of worship is certainly one of the things to do in Turkey, according to locals.
Now that we’ve experienced the charm of Istanbul let’s venture into the serene landscapes and idyllic coastlines of Turkey.
2. Cappadocia: A Fairy Tale Wonderland
In central Anatolia lies the enchanting region of Cappadocia, a destination renowned for its extraordinary rock formations and otherworldly landscapes. Embark on a hot air balloon ride at sunrise to witness the mesmerizing sight of hundreds of balloons adorning the sky, creating a surreal experience like no other.
Discover the ancient cave dwellings and churches carved into the soft volcanic rock, giving you a glimpse into a bygone era. Cappadocia’s ethereal beauty and tranquillity will transport you to a fairy tale world.
Plus, this is one of the best places to go on holiday in Turkey for couples.
From the dreamlike ambience of Cappadocia, let’s head towards the pristine turquoise waters of the Mediterranean coastline.
3. Antalya: Where History Meets Beach Bliss
As we descend upon the sparkling Mediterranean coast, one of the best places to go on holiday in Turkey comes into view. That’s right, up next, we find ourselves in Antalya, a picturesque coastal city that seamlessly merges history with sun-soaked beaches.
Explore the ancient ruins of Aspendos and Perge, testaments to the region’s illustrious past, or simply unwind on the stunning sandy beaches, basking in the warm Mediterranean sun.
Indulge in the vibrant nightlife of Kaleiçi, Antalya’s historic quarter, where narrow streets are adorned with charming Ottoman houses, boutique hotels, and delightful cafes. Antalya offers the perfect blend of cultural exploration and seaside relaxation.
➜ Aspendos and Perge
Amidst the enchanting landscapes of Turkey lie two jewels of antiquity – Aspendos and Perge. These ancient ruins stand as testaments to the grandeur and legacy of civilizations long gone, beckoning intrepid explorers to uncover the secrets of bygone eras.
Prepare to be transported to a world where history comes alive as we embark on a thrilling adventure to discover the timeless treasures of Aspendos and Perge.
Now, let’s set our sights on the southwestern coast of Turkey, where paradise awaits.
4. Bodrum: A Seaside Haven
Situated along the azure Aegean Sea, Bodrum boasts a captivating blend of ancient history and contemporary charm. Explore the imposing Bodrum Castle, a medieval fortress that overlooks the dazzling marina, or dive into the depths of the underwater museum, showcasing ancient shipwrecks and maritime artefacts.
Take a stroll through the narrow alleys of Bodrum’s Old Town, where boutique shops, vibrant markets, and waterfront restaurants await. Bodrum’s idyllic beaches and lively atmosphere make it a coveted destination for sun-seeking travellers.
5. Ölüdeniz: A Beach Paradise
Nestled along the Turquoise Coast, Ölüdeniz is a beach lover’s paradise and the epitome of a postcard-perfect destination. Its iconic Blue Lagoon, with its serene waters and breathtaking natural beauty, consistently ranks among the world’s most stunning beaches.
Take part in thrilling water sports, explore the nearby Butterfly Valley, or simply unwind on the soft sands, letting the gentle sea breeze lull you into a state of blissful relaxation.
Ölüdeniz is a hidden gem that truly embodies one of the best places to go on holiday in Turkey.
Here are a few places you could visit in Ölüdeniz, one of the best places to go on holiday in Turkey
- Gobekli Tepe
- Dolmabahce Palace
- Archaeological Site of Troy
- Lycian Rock Tombs
- Ankara Castle
While you are at it, witness the traditional dance, Dervish, a Sufi spiritual ceremony that involves people dancing to the music that is dedicated to the Gods.
6. Pamukkale
Speaking of the best places to go on holiday in Turkey, this is the place you must visit at all costs! The white-coloured travertine landscape that is transformed by the thermal springs is loaded with limestones – this results in calcium deposits that take the unique shapes of potholes, stalactites, and cataracts. plus, it offers gorgeous vistas.
7. Mount Nemrut
Mount Nemrut is a top tourist destination in East Turkey. A popular archaeological site, with the ruins of once enormous statues of giant stone heads. The unique look of the ancient gods at the backdrop of the beautiful landscape is something that you shouldn’t miss.
NOTE: The best time to visit is at sunrise. It’s the best time to watch the statues as they appear out of the dark dawn.
8. Ephesus
Ephesus is a city of ruins of the colossal monuments of Roman cities in the Mediterranean region.
Things to do at the best holiday places in Turkey
1. Unwind in a Turkish bath!
Unwind in a traditional Turkish bath A.K.A. Hammami. A cleansing treatment as you detox in a hot room and then splashed with cold water. The Cemberlitas Hammami is an incredibly unique cultural place that offers a relaxing time.
NOTE: Visit the Hammami during the early morning hours to book yourself a bath.
2. Go island hopping!
Step out of the mainland and explore the stunning bays of the luscious, unspoiled islands of Göcek, a rural town located between Dalaman and Fethiye. This is considered one of the best things to do in Turkey.
The best places to go on holiday in Turkey for Couples: Creating everlasting memories in a romantic paradise
Searching for a romantic getaway that blends captivating landscapes, rich history, and unparalleled charm? Look no further than Turkey, a country that sets the stage for an unforgettable holiday experience for couples. Let’s explore the best places to go on holiday in Turkey for couples, destinations specially curated to ignite sparks of love.
As we embark on a journey through Turkey’s most enchanting destinations for couples, we will seamlessly transition from one idyllic location to another, ensuring that every pair finds their perfect haven.
The best places to go on holiday in Turkey for couples
➜ Istanbul: A Captivating Blend of Romance and History
From the bustling streets of Istanbul, let’s venture into the serenity of Turkey’s natural wonders.
➜ Cappadocia: Love in a Fairytale Setting
From the dreamlike ambience of Cappadocia, let’s journey towards the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean.
➜ Antalya: Where Love and Paradise Collide
Now, let’s set our sights on Turkey’s southwestern coast, where hidden gems await.
➜ Fethiye: A Coastal Hideaway for Lovebirds
An underrated spot for lovebirds. Make sure you check Fethiye out on your romantic retreat.
With its diverse offerings and enchanting destinations, Turkey provides the perfect canvas for couples to paint their own love story. From the historical charm of Istanbul to the fairy-tale landscapes of Cappadocia, the coastal romance of Antalya, and the tranquil hideaways of Fethiye, Turkey offers an abundance of experiences that create cherished memories for couples.
So, let the best places to go on holiday in Turkey for couples be the backdrop to your romantic escapade as you create unforgettable moments and embark on a journey of love in this captivating country.
The best time to go on holiday to Turkey
Turkey is a stunning country and not to mention the coastlines surrounded by cliffs, vibrant cities, and enormous deserts that will astonish and fascinate you. Trying to figure out when to visit depends on the best places to go on holiday in Turkey.
So, if you want a warm summer holiday, a winter break, or explore the culture and history of Turkey, keep reading to find out about the best time to go on a holiday to Turkey!
1. March to May
Springtime is the best time to have a holiday in Turkey because the days last longer and have perfect weather. This is the most suitable period if you want to do outdoor activities.
2. June to September
Summer falls from June to September, which means the weather is hot and is the perfect time for a beach holiday in Turkey.
3. October to November
Autumn is a brilliant time to travel around Turkey. Although the days are shorter, you’ll find that the temperatures are a bit warm and a slight chance of rain.
NOTE: The International Festival of Wine takes place in the city of Cappodocia at the end of October. It’s the best time for all you wine lovers as there are many wine tastings at local vineyards.
4. December to February
Wintertime in Turkey can be considerably chilly, rainy and a chance of snow in most places. If you don’t mind the cold, this would be a great time to visit.
Have you been on holiday to Turkey? If you have, during what time of the year did you go? I’d love to hear all about it. So, let me know the highlights of your trip in the comments below!
Turkish phrases for tourists
As you set foot on the captivating lands of Turkey, where the sun-drenched beaches meet ancient ruins, a warm sense of excitement and anticipation fills the air. To truly immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and make the most of your holiday, it’s essential to embrace the local language. English isn’t spoken as widely in Turkey, so knowing how and what to say will help make your trip more enjoyable.
We will equip you with a collection of indispensable Turkish phrases for tourists while exploring the best places to go on holiday in Turkey.
Greetings and common phrases
- Merhaba (mer-ha-ba): Hello
- Nasılsın? (nas-il-sin): How are you?
- İyiyim, Sen nasılsın? (ee-ee-im, sen nas-il-sin): I’m good, how are you?
- Senin adın ne? (sen-in, ad-in, nay): What is your name?
- Benım adım…(ben-im, ad-im): My name is.
- Nerelisin? (ner-el-i-sin): Where are you from?
- Teşekkür ederim (Teh-sheh-kull-erh Ed-erh-im): Thank you
- Hoş geldin (hosh, gel-din): Welcome
- Hoş bulduk (hosh, bul-dook): A way to say thank you for welcoming me
- Iyı günler (ee-ee, goon-ler): Have a good day
- Görüşürüz (goo-roo-sh-oo-rooz): See you again, goodbye
- Fiyat ne kadar? (fee-yacht, nay, kad-ar): How much?
Transport and navigation
- Tuvalet nerede? (to-let, ner-ay-day): Where is the bathroom?
- Otobus nerede? (ot-o-boos, ner-ay-day): Where is the bus?
- Taksi nerede? (tak-si, ner-ay-day): Where is the taxi?
- A.V.M. nerede? (ah-ve-mey, ner-ay-day): Where is the mall?
NOTE: A.V.M. is an abbreviation that is commonly used for shopping malls.
Dining
- Menu alabilir miyim? (men-u, al-a-bil-ir, mee-yum): Can I have a menu?
- Tavuk (ta-vook): Chicken
- Et (et): Beef
- Kuzu eti (koo-zoo, et-ee): Lamb meat
- Balik (bal-ick): Fish
- Vejetaryen (vej-e-tar-yen): Vegetarian
- Allerji (all-er-ji): Allergy
- Hesap alabilir miyim? (hey-sap, al-a-bil-ir, mee-yum): Can I get the bill?
Turkey travel tips and packing essentials
Follow these travel tips when visiting Turkey so that you can enjoy your holiday without any unpleasant situations.
- Do plenty of research well before your trip, such as the places you want to see and things to do in Turkey.
- Learn common Turkish phrases to have a decent conversation with the locals.
- Pick a suitable accommodation as per your convenience and budget.
- Dress modestly to make sure that you don’t enrage the social customs.
- Respect the Turkish culture, traditions, customs, and religious practices at all times.
- Use public transport as it is a cheap and hassle-free way of commuting to other cities.
- Don’t rely on cards and carry cash with you all the time.
Packing for your trip to Turkey
- A sweater or blazer
- Jeans or pants
- T-shirts & long sleeve outer layer tops
- A shawl, long skirts or dresses when visiting cultural sites
- 1 pair of walking shoes, sandals & flip flops
- A daypack with daily travel essentials with comfortable straps
- Essential electronic devices
NOTE: Turkey works on 220 volts, 50 Hz. The plugs are round-prong European-style.
Not to forget to bring your enthusiasm, street smarts, common sense, a good sense of humour, and good manners. This will be your best chance for a wonderful experience while you’re on holiday in Turkey!
Ready to experience the holiday of a lifetime in Turkey? Don’t miss out on exploring the best places to go on holiday in Turkey and creating unforgettable memories. Whether you’re seeking vibrant city adventures, historical wonders, or stunning coastal getaways, Turkey offers a diverse range of destinations to suit every traveller’s taste. Get inspired, get in touch with us to plan your itinerary, and embark on a remarkable journey to discover the hidden gems of this enchanting country.
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