Turkey is a wonderfully versatile and stunning holiday destination. And it’s quite popular among Brits! It’s consistently in the top 10 of the countries visited most by us and really, it’s to no one’s surprise. After all, it has it all: a fantastically preserved history and culture coupled with breathtaking landscapes and the most beautiful beaches. If you are considering Turkey for your next getaway, here are five locations you might want to have a closer look at.
Cappadocia
Cappadocia is a region in central Turkey that is known for its unique rock formations. They are called fairy chimneys and are a result of a geological process millions of years old. All combined, they create a surreal atmosphere that is best explored by hot air balloon rides so you can truly soak in the panoramic views of the region.
Other must-see sites here include the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the underground cities of Derinkuyu and Kaymakli. You can even stay in a cave hotel here!
Istanbul
Istanbul is the city where East meets West and you’ll find a colourful blend of modern and historical attractions. Key sites include the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, the absolutely majestic Blue Mosque, and the busy Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.
The nightlife here is exceptional – as is the food – so it’s a perfect destination for both culture enthusiasts and partygoers alike.
Antalya
Often referred to as the Turkish Riviera (which is Italian for “coastline”, by the way!), Antalya is the place to be if you’re looking for the best beaches, luxurious resorts for perfect all-inclusive holidays, and ancient ruins. Here, you can explore the historical city of Perge and its well-preserved Roman architecture, hike through the Taurus Mountains and boat tours along the coast – or, you know, simply enjoy the stress-freeness of being catered for at a high-end resort with the Mediterranean Sea in front of you.
Pamukkale
Some places on Earth are simply surreal and could easily be taken as something from another planet. Pamukkale, or the “Cotton Castle”, is definitely one of them, with its mineral-rich thermal waters cascading down white travertine terraces. It’s complemented by the nearby ancient city of Hierapolis, where you can even take a dip in their therapeutic hot springs that have been used for centuries. It’s a true must-have-seen.
Bodrum
Last on the list is Bodrum – a stunning coastal town that boasts a lot of modern luxury with its otherwise historical sites. The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus resides here, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, along with the Bodrum Castle, which is now home to the Museum of Underwater Archaeology.
On top of that, it welcomes you with a lot of luxurious beach resorts, a fantastic nightlight, and a plethora of other activities. So really, it’s the perfect place whatever it is you are looking for. Turkey’s an ideal holiday destination for a lot of reasons – so if you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, why not give one
