Turkey is a country that truly has everything – from beautiful beaches and ancient ruins to bustling bazaars and vibrant cities. For first-time visitors, planning a trip to Turkey can be overwhelming because they may not know what to put on their list of must-see places.
In this article, we will guide you through some of the top attractions in Turkey so that your first trip to this fascinating country will be nothing short of unforgettable. So pack your bags, grab your camera and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
What to gather before travel – visa and other travel documents
Before you start making a list of places in Turkey you should definitely visit, you should know what documents you need to collect for your trip.
Remember to check the validity of your passport and make sure it does not expire within 6 months of your planned date of arrival in Turkey. This is a requirement you must also meet to apply for an eVisa Turkey.
Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for a single or multiple-entry Turkish electronic visa. Whichever type of visa you get online, you may only use it for a tourist or business trip to Turkey.
Check if you are eligible for an eVisa and get your visa without visiting the Turkish embassy, save a lot of time organizing your trip!
Let’s explore some of the top destinations in Turkey!
Istanbul
Istanbul is a city that truly captivates the senses, with its bustling streets, vibrant markets and beautiful architecture. For those traveling to Istanbul for the first time, here are a few must-do activities that will help you get the most out of your visit.
One of the top attractions in Istanbul is the Hagia Sophia – a magnificent mosque transformed into a museum with breathtaking mosaics and intricate design details.
Another destination not to be missed is the Topkapi Palace, once home to Ottoman sultans, which has beautiful gardens and opulent living quarters.
And of course, no trip to Istanbul is complete without a visit to the Grand Bazaar – one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, where you can haggle on everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs. With so much to see and do in Istanbul, you are sure to leave this city feeling inspired and enriched by its vibrant culture and rich history.
Cappadocia
This beautiful region is known for its incredible rock formations, underground cities and balloon rides. One of the most enjoyable activities in Cappadocia is a sunrise balloon ride, where you can watch the breathtaking landscape from above as the sun rises above the horizon. Another must-visit is the Goreme Open Air Museum, featuring ancient cave churches with beautiful frescoes from the 10th century.
And if you are feeling adventurous, be sure to explore some of the underground cities in Cappadocia – Kaymakli and Derinkuyu are two popular cities that were once used as shelters in times of war. With its unique landscape and rich history, Cappadocia is a destination that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler who visits it.
Pamukkale
Pamukkale is another stunning natural wonder that should be on the list of every first-time traveler to Turkey. This area is known for its white travertine terraces formed by hot springs that have been flowing for thousands of years.
Mineral-rich water falls down from the terraces and creates pools in which visitors can swim, making it a unique and memorable experience. In addition to the terraces, Pamukkale is also home to the ancient city of Hierapolis, once a thriving Roman spa.
Visitors can explore the ruins of this ancient city and marvel at the well-preserved amphitheater and ancient baths. And if you’re looking for a more immersive experience, try taking a dip in Cleopatra’s Pool – a thermal bath that was reportedly used by the famous queen herself. With its stunning natural beauty and rich history, Pamukkale is a destination that will amaze any first-time traveler to Turkey with its incredible offerings.
Ephesus
Ephesus is another top destination for any first-time traveler to Turkey. Located on the shores of the Aegean Sea, this ancient city was once one of the largest and most important cities of the Roman Empire.
Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins and marvel at the impressive architecture, including the Library of Celsus and the Grand Theater. One of the highlights of visiting Ephesus is a walk along the famous Marble Road – a beautiful colonnaded street that leads to the impressive Library of Celsus.
Another attraction not to be missed is the Temple of Artemis – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Although only a few columns remain today, you can easily imagine how magnificent this temple was in its heyday.
And if you want to learn more about Ephesus’ rich history, be sure to visit the museum, with its impressive collection of artifacts from antiquity. With its fascinating history and beautiful architecture, Ephesus is a destination not to be missed on your first visit to Turkey.
Antalya
Antalya is a breathtaking coastal city that offers something for every type of traveler. Known as the “Turkish Riviera,” Antalya has beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning mountain views. One of the must-visit attractions in Antalya is the old town – Kaleici – where you can stroll through narrow streets and admire Ottoman-era architecture.
Within this historic district, visitors will find Hadrian’s Gate – an ancient Roman triumphal arch that was built to honor Emperor Hadrian’s visit to the city in 130 AD. Another popular attraction is the Antalya Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from ancient times. For nature lovers, a trip to the Duden Waterfalls should be on your itinerary.
Two waterfalls can be seen here: Upper Duden Waterfall and Lower Duden Waterfall – both equally beautiful and surrounded by lush greenery. And if you’re looking for a little adventure, take a cable car to Mount Tahtali for panoramic views of the coastline below.
Bodrum
Bodrum is a lively coastal city in southwestern Turkey. One of the most iconic sights in Bodrum is the Castle of St. Peter – an impressive medieval structure that now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Visitors can explore this historic site and learn about the fascinating history of Bodrum’s maritime past.
Another popular attraction is Bodrum Marina – a picturesque harbor filled with luxury yachts and surrounded by restaurants and cafes. For those looking for adventure, a day trip to nearby islands like Kos or Rhodes is highly recommended. And as for beaches, there are plenty to choose from – each with its own unique charm and atmosphere.
Whether you are looking for a quiet place to relax or a lively place with water sports and beach bars, Bodrum has it all. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty and endless activities, Bodrum is an ideal destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure during their Turkish vacation.
Turkse Baden
Experiencing a traditional Turkish bath or hammam is an essential part of any visit to Turkey. This ancient practice includes relaxing in a steam bath, getting a scrub and massage from a professional masseur, and enjoying a cup of Turkish tea. The hammam experience is not only incredibly relaxing, but also deeply rooted in Turkish culture and history.
After entering the steam room, a special cloth is wrapped around your body before you lie down on the warm marble slab. A masseur then uses a rough glove to exfoliate your skin and remove all dead cells. This process not only makes your skin feel soft and fresh, but also promotes circulation and detoxification. After you are thoroughly exfoliated, you will receive a soothing massage with aromatic oils that will leave you completely relaxed.
And after your treatment, you can enjoy traditional Turkish tea while enjoying the serene environment of the hammam. A visit to a traditional Turkish bath is truly an unforgettable experience not to be missed during your trip through Turkey.
Conclusions
In short, Turkey offers a wide range of attractions and experiences for travelers.
From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the surreal landscape of Cappadocia, from the ancient ruins of Ephesus to the beautiful beaches of Antalya, and from the traditional Turkish baths to the delicious cuisine, Turkey has something for everyone.
By including these must-see attractions and experiences on your first trip to Turkey, you will have a memorable and satisfying travel experience.
