Türkiye is a dazzling destination between Asia and Europe, highlighted by ancient monuments and stunning natural landscapes. Vibrant culture, famous cuisine, rich history, glorious scenery from the sunny and windy Mediterranean to majestic mountains and arid steppes characterize this country. Traveling to Turkey , you can immerse yourself in the glorious beauty of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture in Istanbul, stroll around romantic beaches, explore the history of architectural works such as Ephesus, or admire See the world’s most impressive surrealist paintings in Pamukkale and Cappadocia. Let’s explore with Asia News Daily the 12 most famous attractions in Turkey on your European travel itinerary .
Aya Sofya Church
Dubbed one of the most beautiful buildings in the world, the enchanting Byzantine architectural style of the Aya Sofya Museum (Hagia Sophia) has made it a top must-see destination in Istanbul, Turkey. Ky. Aya Sofya is surrounded by beautiful minarets, which were added after the Ottoman wars. Stepping inside the museum, you will certainly feel overwhelmed by the luxurious and splendid interior of this architectural work. In particular, the frescoes at Aya Sofya are a reminder of the strength and power of Constantinople. This famous monument is a destination that you must definitely visit when traveling to Turkey .
Ephesus
Ephesus is a city of giant monuments and marble streets. The majestic ruins of Ephesus are a must-see stop. One of the most complete surviving Roman cities in the Mediterranean region, Ephesus is the perfect place to experience the golden life of the Roman Empire. To explore all the outstanding landmarks of the city of Ephesus, it will take you at least half a day or longer. So, please plan ahead so you can comfortably visit this place.
Cappadocia
The exotic rocky valleys of Cappadocia are every photographer’s dream destination. Rugged cliffs and bell-shaped hilltops formed over millennia have created a mysterious beauty for this place. If you don’t want to go sightseeing on foot, you can enjoy the beauty of Cappadocia with a hot air balloon cruise. If the sights aren’t enough to tempt you, you can visit the beautiful churches nestled in the valley to admire the Byzantine frescoes. This is an extremely important Christian site.
Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace will take you into the magical, luxurious world of Turkish kings. It was from here that the sultans of the Ottoman Empire created an empire that would expand into Europe, across the Middle East and into Africa. The interior of the palace is exquisitely and elaborately decorated. The surrounding gardens, once the grounds of the Royal Court, are now open to visitors.
Pamukkale (Cotton Castle)
Pamukkale (English for “Cotton Castle”) is one of Türkiye’s most famous natural wonders. The pure white stairs look like a beautiful snow field. Pamukkale is the highlight of your trip to Türkiye. Besides, coming here, you can visit the ruins of Roman Hierapolis, an ancient town located on top of a calcite hill. To take the best photos, visit this site at sunset, when the travertines glow.
Sumela Monastery
With its splendid setting, Sumela Monastery (Monastery of the Virgin Mary) is a favorite tourist destination for people traveling along the Black Sea Coast. Wandering around this abandoned complex, you can admire the mysterious beauty of the monastery with its colorful frescoes. This is the top destination that every tourist should visit when taking a long journey to northeastern Türkiye. Sumela Monastery was first opened during the Byzantine period and was closed in 1923. Today, walking around the monastery, you can easily imagine the life of the isolated monks who once lived there. This.
Mount Nemrut
A top tourist attraction in eastern Türkiye, Mount Nemrut is notable for its giant statues. This strange place is one of Türkiye’s most extraordinary archaeological sites. The large statues of human heads represent forgotten gods. Their distant gaze creates an eerie atmosphere on the pristine mountain top. The best time to visit this place is at sunrise, because at this time, you can see the statues looming in the dark.
Years
The abandoned buildings of the ancient city of Ani lie on the plains, near Türkiye’s border with Armenia. The Armenian capital, Ani’s golden age ended in the 14th century after a sudden Mongol attack, an earthquake, and trade interference. The beauty of the ruined buildings in the middle of the vast steppe fascinates all tourists who visit this place. Don’t forget to visit the Church of Christ the Savior, or St. Gregory’s Church to see the ruins of these abandoned structures.
Aspendos
Located just south of Antalya, the Roman Theater of Aspendos was the site of the celebrations and solemn rites of Marcus Aurelius. Dubbed the best-preserved structure of a classical theater left in the world, the Aspendos Theater is a special tourist attraction in Türkiye. After visiting this theater, you can explore the ruins of the vast hilly area nearby if you have time.
Cruise the Mediterranean
Türkiye’s Mediterranean coastline is full of historical ruins, sightseeing spots and exciting experiences. This is a great place to see beautiful views of the coast. Taking a river cruise to Bodrum and Fethiye, you will have the opportunity to see steep slopes, coves, white sand beaches and hundreds of beautiful islands. One of the most famous trips is the “Blue Cruise”, which travels from south of Fethiye to the coast near Olympus. Here, you will have the opportunity to see the famous natural phenomenon of Chimaera.
Pergamum
Türkiye has many Greco-Roman ruins, but none can beat the romance of ancient Pergamum in Bergama. This was once one of the most important libraries of the ancient world. The remaining ruins of the Pergamum temple are now mainly located on the top of the hill. This is an incredibly beautiful place, with a defensive citadel and a theater perched on a hillside with breathtaking panoramic views. This is a great place to visit if you want to get a taste of life in ancient Rome.
Ölüdeniz
Ölüdeniz is Türkiye’s most famous beach, with stunning views of blue waters amid lush forests. If the beach is too crowded, you can experience the aerial landscape by paragliding. This is one of the world’s top paragliding destinations.