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Top Things to See and Do in Turkey

Planning the perfect Turkey trip can be overwhelming, with so much to see and do. The travel guides written by Zitango Turkey Specialists will help you get a glimpse of all the country offers. Some of the top activities that our Turkey travel specialists recommend are below to inspire you.

But no travel guide compares to talking to a travel agent with local knowledge. Simply contact us, and our passionate Turkey travel specialists will be excited to custom-design a luxury Turkey vacation package that will show you the best of their country. With us at the helm, you will be on an authentic journey with no compromise between comfort and luxury.

SEE THE FAIRY CHIMNEYS IN CAPPADOCIA

Cappadocia is a must-see in all luxury tours in Turkey. The destination’s most striking feature is the tall, cone-shaped rock formations, famously known as the “Fairy Chimneys.” These structures clustered throughout the Goreme National Park — one of Turkey’s many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, will leave you gazing in awe as it dates back centuries.

On your trip, you can explore the mesmerizing lunar-like landscape from a hot air balloon. You’ll also get to venture through the valley and discover the many historical treasures like underground cities and centuries-old caves, which once served as houses, churches, and monasteries. Today, some of these caves are converted to luxury cave hotels and quaint restaurants, offering their guests unique experiences.

DISCOVER FAMOUS LANDMARKS IN ISTANBUL

The beautiful Istanbul is undoubtedly one of the best places to see in Turkey. This colorful metropolis boasts a rich history and culture that very few destinations can match. You’ll come across many incredible landmarks and some of the most breathtaking views here.

In your luxury Turkey tour package, you’ll have the opportunity to explore many of Istanbul’s top attractions. Marvel at the Blue Mosque, wander around the Grand Bazaar, buy exotic spices at the Spice Market, and visit the famed Hagia Sophia — the Byzantine architectural wonder with exquisite mosaics. Then relax on a serene Bosphorus cruise. This is just a little taste of what Istanbul has to offer.

VISIT THE ANCIENT CITY OF EPHESUS

On your privately guided tour of Turkey, you can discover a piece of Greek history by visiting the ancient city of Ephesus. Housed in the central Aegean region near modern-day Selcuk are well-preserved ruins that date back to the Greek Dark Ages.

While you stroll along paved streets, Greco-Roman history will come to life with its centuries-old temples, libraries, theaters, houses, and statues. Iconic landmarks like the Temple of Hadrian and the Great Amphitheater still host concerts, and the Library of Celsus will give you a true sense of Turkey’s incredibly rich past.

ENJOY THE HOT SPRINGS IN PAMUKKALE

Pamukkale is one of Turkey’s most famous natural wonders. Its name translates to “Cotton Castle,” and you’ll certainly feel like you’ve been whisked away to a magical destination when standing on the pure white limestone terraces. Here you can swim in the hot travertine pools or simply admire the gorgeous landscape.

Other notable sites that offer a delightful experience near Pamukkale are Aphrodisias, an incredibly well-preserved ancient city dedicated to Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty, and Hierapolis — an ancient Greek city often referred to as the “Holy City.”

TASTE TURKEY’S DELICIOUS CUISINE AND WINES

Elevate your Turkey trip with authentic local food and drinks. There’s no better way to learn about a country than through a food tour.

That shouldn’t be too difficult as Turkey has amazingly fragrant and delicious food. Our local Turkey Specialists will make sure to include the best wineries and restaurants with best authentic Turkish cuisine in your itinerary. For initial inspiration, view our Turkey food & wine tour.

Did you know?

• Istanbul is the only city in the world located on two continents, Europe and Asia.
• Catalhoyuk is known as one of the earliest settlements in the Neolithic Age.
• Two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World are in Turkey: the Temple of Artemis and the Halicarnassus Mausoleum.
• The Virgin Mary’s House in Selcuk is a very popular pilgrimage site for Christians.
• The Ottomans introduced coffee to Europe in the 17th century.
• The word turquoise came from Turk and was derived from the perfect blue of the Mediterranean Sea on the southern Turkish coast.

• The world’s two greatest mosaic museums are in Turkey, Zeugma and Antakya.
• The most valuable silk carpet in the world is in the Mevlana Museum in Turkey.
• Anatolia is the birthplace of many historical figures, such as Phrygian King Midas, Herodotus, and St. Paul the Apostle.
• Yogurt is one of the healthiest foods in existence and is derived from the original Turkish yogurt.
• Santa Claus was born in Patara and served as the Bishop of Myra, both on the Turquoise Coast. The Santa Claus Museum, an 11th-century church in Demre (Myra), is open for visitors.
• According to the Legend of the Great Flood told in both the Quran and the Old Testament, Noah’s Ark landed on Mount Agri in eastern Anatolia.
• The seven churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation, Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamon, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea are all located in Turkey.
• Tulips were first introduced to Europe by the Ottomans and quickly became all the rage over there.
• The first church built by man, St. Peter’s Church, is in Antioch (Antakya), Turkey.
• Catalhoyuk is known as one of the earliest settlements in the Neolithic Age.

• Troy, where the Trojan wars recounted in the Iliad by Homeros were fought, is situated near Canakkale in western Turkey.
• One of the earliest accurate world maps was drawn by the well-known Turkish cartographer and navigator Piri Reis in 1513.
• Sanliurfa is known as the City of the Prophets, where Prophet Abraham, Prophet Job, Prophet Elijah, and Prophet Jacob lived.
• Gobekli Tepe in southeast Turkey is considered the oldest temple built by mankind.
• Kayseri, a city in central Turkey, derives its name from Augustus Caesar when it was called Caesaris.
• The world’s first coins were minted in ancient Lydia located in today’s Turkey.
• Hezarfen, an Ottoman scientist, flew with man-made wings from the Galata Tower in Istanbul in the 17th century.
• Turkey is one of the world’s largest yacht manufacturers.

Best Time to Visit Turkey

The best time to go to Turkey will depend on which part of Turkey you want to visit and what you hope to get out of your trip.

On the overall, the shoulder seasons are best. This is in the spring (April to June) and fall months (September and October). During this time, the weather is moderate and key tourist locations are less crowded. However, you should try to avoid the periods of top European holidays like Easter, and the Turkish Eid holiday.

ISTANBUL AND INNER PARTS OF ANATOLIA

There is quite a difference between the climate of the coastal and the inland regions.

Istanbul is pleasant for the majority of the year. However, the temperatures can reach as high as 90°F in July and August, and as low as 25°F in January through March. Winter months may see days of heavy rain and some snow.

Weather in central and eastern Anatolia are at extremes, with hot, dry summers when the temperatures may go above 90°F, and freezing snowy winters. Thus spring and autumn are best for sightseeing and traveling.

AEGEAN AND MEDITERRANEAN COAST

Aegean and Mediterranean coasts of Turkey, which includes the Turquoise Coast, display a typical Mediterranean climate of hot summers and mild winters.

Weather is generally mild and pleasant and from April to June and in September.

July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures reaching 100°F with relatively high humidity.

The swimming season is from June to September along North Aegean coasts, while it is from April to October on the South Aegean and Mediterranean coasts.

Required Clothing

Depending on where you are, appropriate clothing will vary widely. If visiting during the summer, take light cotton layers and a hat, as temperatures can reach scorching, particularly in the cities. During the winter months, pack heavier layers and waterproofs. Sturdy shoes and equipment are advisable for anyone who will be trekking in the mountainous areas.