Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Turkey: iLinkTurkey’s Helpful Guide

Turkey is one of the best places to visit as a tourist, with tons of places you can visit and much more to do. Apart from only having famed history and historical places, it’s home to stunning natural destinations, unique landscapes and exciting activities to do in its cities. Here are the Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Turkey as a first-time tourist:

1. Istanbul

Istanbul, originally Constantinople, is Turkey’s economic center, with countless hotels, picturesque sites, and traditional food spots. No.1 in our list of the best places to visit in Turkey, when visiting Istanbul, tourists should not miss the Sultan Ahmed Mosque and the Dolmabahce Palace, two major attractions with a long history.

One of the most recognizable mosques in Istanbul is also known as the “Blue Mosque” because of the extensive amount of blue tiles inlaid into its walls. The Dolmabahce Palace, which is situated on the charming Bosphorus, is renowned for its remarkable construction and magnificent interior decoration.

Check Out: 3 Days Istanbul Tour Package

2. Cappadocia

Cappadocia is located in the center of Turkey. Famous for its distinctive porphyry layers, it’s a place tourists never want to miss. Due to several volcanic eruptions millions of years ago, a vast volume of magma was weathered after cooling and calcification for millions of years, generating fairy chimneys on the surface environment, that are now famous as the Cappadocia Fairy Chimneys. This created a jagged terrain on the landscape and makes it a uniquely mesmerizing spot to visit aside from one of the best places to visit in Turkey.

Depending on their plans, tourists can choose to trek, ride a mountain bike, or fly in a hot air balloon when visiting this location. The most famous activity to do here is riding a hot air balloon, which lets tourists admire the unique landscape created by the uneven terrain and stones of all shapes from a great height.

Check Out: Cappadocia Package (3 Nights)

3. Konya

One of Turkey’s oldest cities, Konya is situated in the west of the country and is infamous for being a place enriched with an old history. It once served as a military hub for both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. This city is home to several priceless cultural artifacts and monuments. The Mevlana Museum and the Aladdin Mosque are two of the must-see sites when visiting this city.

In the heart of Konya, atop Mount Aladdin, stands the original Aladdin Mosque, which is known for its beautiful marble pillars left behind from the Roman era. This mosque also has the Antalya National Museum, which is home to several valuable artifacts from different cultures. Konya is among the best places to visit in Turkey for those who want to experience centuries-old culture and historic monuments.

4. Antalya

Antalya is the largest city on Turkey’s southern coast. It served as a vital port in the eastern Mediterranean in the second century BC during the Eastern Roman Empire and the Ottoman Empire, and it continues to be one of the most important ports in the country today.

Every year, a large number of travelers from all over the world come here to enjoy the city’s warm weather, stunning natural landscape, and magnificent beaches. With the breathtaking panorama of “Duden,” the lovely lake of Burdur, and the amazing seaside scenery along the miles-long coastline, Antalya is a one-of-a-kind city which makes it one of the best places to visit in Turkey.

Check Out: 3 Days Antalya Tour Package

5. Izmir

Izmir, Turkey’s third-largest city, is situated on the Aegean Sea. It is also a well-known historical and cultural city, a popular tourist destination, and an ancient fortress. This is one of the unique cities in Turkey that caters to both seasoned history-crazy tourists and first-time visitors.

Numerous historical sites can be found in this old city, including the remnants of the ancient Greek city of Efis, the Temple of Atmethemé and the Temple of Hadrian, to name a few. Izmir is also close to the alluring Aegean Sea, which makes it a cherished spot for tourists looking to enjoy the exceptional coastal beauty of this city.

6. Kayseri

Kayseri is located in the center of Turkey and is home to several Roman and Seljuk monuments, such as the Castle of Kayseri and the ancient city of Talas. The Kayseri Castle is surrounded by lively streets, always bustling with merchants, buyers, and tourists alike. Another best place to visit in Turkey on a tour, visitors can tour the castle while also getting a glimpse into the fascinating daily life of the locals.

This castle is surrounded by other historic sites and mosques and is constructed from natural volcanic stones. Kayseri Museum, located not far from the castle, is a great place to learn about the history of Kayseri. It exhibits not only a large number of cultural relics found in local archaeology but also several valuable historical materials and cuneiform stones from ancient imperial times, which are highly revered by both tourists and locals.

7. Pamukkale

No.7 on our list of the best places to visit in Turkey, the city of Pamukkale is a mineral-rich hot spring in Turkey’s western foothills near Denizli. The name of this city means “cotton castle” in Turkish, which relates to the spring’s unique blue and white landscape that’s step-shaped and appears to be milky white at first glance. This distinctive white and blue step-like landform in the Pamukkale travertine terraces, is developed after rainwater erosion and time precipitation as lime is the primary natural component of its geology.

The pure pool water reflects the stalactites and fluffy white ladder walls, which adds to the splendor and uniqueness of the hot springs. This hot spring has always been attached to the centuries-old myth of being the miracle water that cures illnesses, which made it a prized spot among the royal Ottoman family.

8. Ephesus

Ephesus was once one of the most prominent cities in Greek history. The ruins of this ancient city, which was once a thriving trading center, have now been merged into the Turkish town of Selcuk. It is the greatest ancient Greek-Roman city in the world and the best-preserved ancient city on the eastern Mediterranean Sea coast.

In the almost-discovered Ephesus ancient ruins, the buildings discovered here indicate the old prosperity of this city, and the artistic masterpieces left behind are long-standing proof of the brilliant civilisation of the ancient Roman Empire.

Check Out: 3 Days Ephesus and Pamukkale Package

9. Bodrum

Bodrum is situated near the southernmost point of Turkey’s famed Aegean Sea and is home to many historic sights, including the famous Bodrum Castle, the renowned Mosolas Mausoleum, and a one-of-a-kind underwater archaeological museum.

The city is always swarmed with tourists because of the Castle of St Peter, which dates to the 15th century and was constructed by knights from France, England, Italy and Germany. Bodrum is known for its sandy beaches, deep blue sea, and the sunlight white homes that make it one of the best places to visit in Turkey.

10. Canakkale

The city of Canakkale is situated in western Turkey. It is another best place to visit in Turkey and the city has been a historical military hub because of its distinctive geographic setting and is also one of the nearest cities to the ruins of Troy.

Travellers from all over the world visit Canakkale to see the ruins of the legendary Trojan War and the city, which lies 40 kilometres south of Canakkale. Since this city holds a cultural and historical value for the Trojan culture, it was added to UNESCO World Heritage List in 1998.

Check Out: 3 Days Gallipoli and Troy Tour Package

Know the Best Places to Visit in Turkey With iLinkTurkey’s Guide

“Too little time, yet so much more to see”, is a common sentiment felt by most tourists when they visit Turkey for the first time. Unless you’re here for an extended holiday, you can never run out of places to visit, food to eat, natural monuments to discover, and people to meet. Be sure to research Turkey in-depth and create a detailed travel itinerary before visiting.

So are you ready to embark on a wonderful journey to the Gateway to Ancient Wonders otherwise known as Turkey, where you’ll experience wonderful cultures, and rich culinary delicacies, all with pre-booked accommodations, and guided tours? iLinkTurkey offers a diverse range of guided tour packages for destinations in Turkey. Head over to our packages and book one of our featured Turkey packages now.

The post Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Turkey for First-Time Tourists appeared first on IlinkTurkey.

The capital of the region, Izmir is one of the oldest towns in the Mediterranean, including its fair share of Greek, Muslim, and Jewish cultures. With so many historic monuments nearby, such as Ephesus, lively bazaars, fascinating museums, wonderful Aegean cuisine, and friendly locals, planning a trip to the best places to visit in Izmir is worth it.

The city offers a mix of the old and new and there’s also a variety of pretty beaches just a short distance away from central Izmir, providing plenty of places to relax, unwind and enjoy all that this beautiful region has to offer. 

The Best Places to Visit in Izmir, Turkey You Should Know

With over 8,000 years of ancient history visible in archaeological sites and monuments, Izmir doesn’t just have a fascinating cultural heritage. It’s also home to a lovely coastal climate, outdoor activities, and distinct local cuisine. Here are the most famous and best places to visit in the city of Izmir and the closeby region:

1.   The Clock Tower

The Clock Tower is also famous as the symbol of Izmir and is located in Konak Square. Raymond Charles Pere, a Levantine French architect, designed and constructed the tower in 1601 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Abdulhamid II’s ascension to the Ottoman throne.

The clock has the hallmarks of Ottoman classical architecture while tying it with the French and German touch. The tower itself is Moorish in design, with massive columns. The historical and cultural value of this tower makes this an unmissable sight and one of the best places to visit in Izmir one should go to.

2.   Kemeraltı Bazaar

For a true experience of the local culture in Izmir, head to the famed Kemeralti market nearby Konak Square. It’s quite easy to spend hours wandering the market streets, which are reminiscent of Istanbul’s Egyptian Bazaar.

Stop by the stalls selling traditional Turkish foods and cuisine, local teas and colorful spices, clothing, and even the famed Turkish carpets and rugs and do some Kemeralti Bazaar shopping. The bazaar is also famous for serving Turkey’s authentic black tea or coffee beside the Hisar Mosque.

There are many jewelry and antique shops in Kızlarağası Hanı (an Ottoman caravanserai, roadside inns along trade routes), as well as local artists working on metals, leather, and jewelry in the bazaar that will make your journey to one of the best places to visit in Izmir even more unforgettable.

3.   Pamukkale Thermal Pools

Located only five hours away Izmir begins the magical Pamukkale’s thermal springs. Pamukkale, which means  “cotton castle” in Turkish, is a unique natural formation in Denizli, Turkey’s southwesternmost province. The location is famous for its thermal pools formed by the carbonate residue left by running water called travertine.

There are 17 hot springs ranging in temperature from moderate to piping hot. Apart from the medicinal powers of the water, stunning ruins and historical buildings including the ancient Greek city of Hierapolis border the Pamukkale’s travertine pools, located above the pools.

4.   Agora Archaeological Site 

The Agora of Smyrna, a Greek public space, is an open-air museum in the Namazgâh district and another best place to visit in Izmir. It is one of the world’s few agoras situated within a modern city, with a three-layered construction, basilicas, marble columns, arches, and antique carvings.

Some of the items and excavations from this site are now on display in the Izmir Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Art and History. For history lovers, this place is a gold mine for ancient Greek architecture and culture attracting thousands of tourists from all over.

5.   Balçova Cable Car Rides

Balçova is one of the most beautiful residential areas of Izmir, offering Izmir’s sole cable car system atop Dede Mountain. This cable car is one of Turkey’s oldest aerial lifts providing stunning views of the city after a hard trip up the mountain.

At the climb, the tea and BBQ huts serve as perfect relaxing spots for a scenic picnic with family and friends. This spot also has a wide-range telescope that provides views of both Izmir and İnciralti, a local picturesque neighborhood. Tourists also head over to Balçova for its famous thermal pools perfect for a spa day known as Agamemnon Baths. 

6.   The Ruins of Ephesus

A must-see for history and archaeology enthusiasts, Ephesus is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Ephesus archeological site is a renowned tourist destination because of the celebrated Library of Celsus, one of the largest libraries in the Roman world. 

Other monuments and locations in the city include the amphitheater, the Temple of Hadrian, and the neighboring Temple of Artemis. The terraced mansions of Ephesus with their colorful mosaics are a site to see, offering a glimpse into the luxurious lives of ancient Romans. There are guided tours and buses departing for Ephesus in central Izmir, making for a perfect day trip in one of the best places to visit in Izmir.

7.   Ilıca Beach Strip

Ilıca is located 79 kilometers west of downtown Izmir and is one of the most popular beach locations in Izmir province and yet another best place to visit in Izmir. The beach is ideal for families since the water remains shallow for 100 meters offshore, making it safe for children and inexperienced swimmers to have fun.

It’s surrounded by white sand with lush greenery and crystalline waves washing over the shore. There are lots of sun loungers and shades to rent, restrooms and freshwater showers nearby, and plenty of café and restaurant options only a short walk from the beach.

8.   Konak Pier

Konak Pier, designed as a customs house in the nineteenth century by the famed French architect Gustave Eiffel, is a waterfront commercial center immediately north of Konak Square.

The pier offers beautiful views of the water. Stunning especially at night with the lights in the stores, theatres, and a bookshop glittering off the water. Strolling along the pier and relaxing in one of the cafes with some traditional snacks is a great way to appreciate the beauty of the site and even meet new friends.

9.   Downtown Alsancak 

For those looking to enjoy the nightlife of downtown Izmir, Alsancak offers a vibrant expense into the city’s lively life with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, bars, and more. It’s a great place to enjoy the glittering life of the region after exploring the scenic views of the landscape and experiencing a luxurious night out before departing the city.

One of the best places to visit in Izmir, the main streets of Alsancak are decorated with world-famous restaurants, small boutique shops, bars, pools, and more, still offering when tourists run out of things to do downtown. 

10.   Izmir Archaeological and Ethnography Museum

Explore the bygones of the ancient days and cultures in the Izmir Archaeological and Ethnography Museum which is located on Halil Rifat Street in the Konak district. One of the best places to visit in Izmir for history buffs, over 1500 objects are shown in exhibition halls, warehouses, photography studios, and libraries spread across 5000 square meters.

The exhibition is organized on different floors and halls containing historical artifacts from the ancient city of Smyrna, Pitane, Myrina and Kyme (Aliaga), Ephesus, Kolophon, Teos, Klazomenai, Metropolis, and Lebedos.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Places to Visit in Izmir

Q. What is Izmir best known for?

A. izmir is known for a lot of things but most importantly is known for its stunning beaches, amazing tourist attractions, and being a generally tourist place.

Q. Is Izmir worth visiting for tourists?

A. Izmir is definitely worth visiting for tourist as its home to a lot of history that goes back before Alexander the Great, has a ton of natural beauty, amazing cultures which makes it one of the best places to visit in Turkey as a tourist.

Experience the Beauty Of the Aegean Coast in Izmir 

With history awaiting to be explored behind every corner, Izmir is a vibrant and glittering place to visit in Turkey. Blessed with picturesque views of the Aegean landscape and culture, there’s no place quite like this in the whole world. One of the best places to visit in Turkey, visiting Izmir is a must for any trip to Turkey in the summer.

So are you ready to embark on a fantastic and exciting journey to the Gateway to Ancient Wonders, also known as Turkey, where you’ll experience wonderful cultures, and rich culinary delicacies, all with pre-booked accommodations, and guided tours? iLinkTurkey offers a diverse range of guided tour packages for destinations in Turkey. Head over to our packages and book one of our featured Turkey packages now.

The post Explore The Pearl of the Aegean: The Best Places To Visit In Izmir appeared first on IlinkTurkey.

The people in Turkey take the eve of New Year seriously. You can see this zeal first-hand in the Galata district and the streets of Taksim Square in Istanbul. But those aren’t the only places that offer all the fun. Aside from the famous celebrations and gatherings in Taksim Square, there are a lot of places that celebrate New Year in Turkey with celebrations that top even those of Istanbul. In this blog, we’ve made a detailed guide on the best places to celebrate New Year in Turkey from which you can choose the best to celebrate on your trip to Turkey.

Best Places to Celebrate New Year in Turkey: A Detailed Guide

Being on any crowded street in either Istanbul, Antalya, Cappadocia or elsewhere in Turkey during New Year’s Day means you’re likely to see some of the most amazing scenes in your life. Whether it’s the fireworks, the celebration, or the overall vibe you can feel in that place and with the people, these celebrations will make you love Turkey and appreciate its New Year’s traditions more. Here are some of the best places to celebrate New Year in Turkey:

1. Istanbul

Celebrating The New Year in Istanbul is one of the best ways to memorialize that day and your trip to Istanbul. The city comes alive during New Year’s Day and is brimming with locals and tourists celebrating and enjoying the festive scenes there. Here are the best places to celebrate New Year in Turkey’s Istanbul:

Taksim Square and Istiklal Square

The crowds especially those at Taksim and Istiklal Square are something to be awed at with people full of passion and in the mood to celebrate the New Year’s day.

Check Out: Istanbul Tour (3 Days)

Ortakoy and Bosphorus Bridge 

One of the best places to stay near at night on New Year’s Day is Ortakoy, with the spectacular fireworks show over the Bosphorus Bridge one of the best things one can see in Istanbul. 

Bosphorus Cruise

Aside from this, going on a Bosphorus cruise on New Year’s Day is another top option to celebrate the day/ Here, you can see Istanbul’s top landmarks fully illuminated at night while enjoying a lovely Turkish dinner along the views of the fireworks above you.

Check Out: Istanbul & Bursa Package (4 Days)

2. Antalya

On the second spot after Istanbul but no less rowdy of celebrations on New Year’s Day, the resort city of Antalya during New Year’s Day is a whole new place. Like Istanbul, the whole of Antalya comes to life, with fireworks, celebrations, people wearing red clothes during the night (a sign of good fortune in Turkish culture), restaurants and hotels alive and brimming to the full at the New Year’s Night. Here are some of the best places to celebrate the New Year in Antalya city:

Kaleici (Old Town Of Antalya)

The Old Town of Antalya is one of the top places to celebrate New Year in Antalya with its crowded and celebratory vibe, something to be admired during the New Year celebrations. Dining at a traditional restaurant while enjoying the fireworks is one of the best ways to spend this holiday in Antalya.

Check Out: Antalya Tour (3 Days)

Land of Legends Theme Park

A popular spot for families during the New Year with its spectacular fireworks show and parties, the Land of Legends Theme Park is one the best spots to spend New Year’s Night with families in Antalya.

Antalya Marina

Antalya is famous for its beaches and its marina throughout the year for its amazing potential as a tourist destination. And on New Year’s Day, the marina becomes even more popular and crowded due to its amazing views of the Mediterranean Sea, and fantastic restaurants with their special New Year’s menus, making this a top destination to visit in the New Year in Antalya.

Check Out: Istanbul, Antalya, Konya, & Cappadocia Tour (8 Days)

3. Cappadocia

The Land of Fairy Chimneys and unusual landscapes that light up and buzz continuously during the New Year, Cappadocia is No.3 in our guide to the best places to celebrate the New Year in Turkey. Whether it’s staying at its trademark cave hotels and enjoying dinner and performances there, or going on a Hot Air Balloon ride during the New Year, celebrating the New Year in Cappadocia is likely to be an experience you can’t forget. Here are the best places and things to do to celebrate the New Year in Cappadocia.

Hot Air Balloon Rides

Going on a hot air balloon ride in the air during New Year’s Eve is one of the best activities you can do to celebrate the New Year in Turkey. Witnessing the incredible sunrise over the beautiful and picturesque valleys and fairy chimneys of Cappadocia in a hot air balloon will be one of the best New Year experiences you can imagine.

Check Out: Cappadocia Package (3 Nights)

Cappadocia’s Iconic Cave Hotels

These iconic cave hotels all over Cappadocia offer special and fantastic live music concerts, and gala dinners, while also offering amazing views of the picturesque valleys of Cappadocia that will make your experience of New Year’s Eve even more memorable.

Traditional Turkish Nights in Cappadocia

Traditional Turkish nights at restaurants and hotels in Cappadocia, offer one of the best New Year experiences. Here, you can delve into sumptuous Turkish dishes, and enjoy traditional music and performances to enjoy New Year’s with a cultural twist. 

Check Out: Istanbul and Cappadocia (6 Days)

Frequently Asked Questions About the New Year in Turkey

Q. What are the New Year Traditions in Turkey?

A. Some traditions in Turkey include smashing pomegranates and eating their seeds as a sign of fortune, wearing red clothes(for luck), exchanging gifts with each other, and listening to traditional music.

Q. What Food is Considered Lucky in Turkey on New Year?

A. Smashing pomegranates and eating the seeds is considered lucky in Turkey on New Year’s Eve. This brings good fortune to their homes according to Turkish people.

Q. How is the New Year celebrated in Turkey?

A. During the New Year, people usually go to other houses and exchange gifts, set off fireworks, wear red clothes for fortune, and go to local restaurants to enjoy traditional music and performances hosted by the restaurants.

The Best Places to Celebrate New Year in Turkey: A Promise to an Unforgettable Trip to Turkey

Celebrating the New Year in Turkey is a blend of amazing cultural traditions with modern experiences, making it an amazing sight to see and behold. Whether it’s the places to see and visit in Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, or elsewhere, you’re ensured that you will not run out of the best places to celebrate New Year in Turkey.

So are you ready to embark on a wonderful journey to the Gateway to Ancient Wonders otherwise known as Turkey, where you’ll experience wonderful cultures, and rich culinary delicacies, all with pre-booked accommodations, and guided tours? iLinkTurkey offers a diverse range of guided tour packages for destinations in Turkey. Head over to our packages and book one of our featured Turkey packages now.

The post The Best Places to Celebrate New Year in Turkey appeared first on IlinkTurkey.