While some people may prefer the luxuries of Istanbul, the beaches of Izmir and Antalya, or the Mediterranean views from Fethiye, Cappadocia is a place that is equal to any of these destinations. So whether you’re an adventurer at heart, a nature lover, or a history aficionado, there are a lot of good reasons why someone should visit Cappadocia. So for this blog, we’ve made a list of 5 Good Reasons to Visit Cappadocia to let travelers across the world know what they could get by visiting Cappadocia to capture its beauty.

5 Good Reasons to Visit Cappadocia: The List

Although Cappadocia doesn’t require any amount of reasons to compel travelers to visit this place, we’ve still made this list for those who’ve not visited it before or those looking to travel to Turkey in the future. So without further ado, here’s our list of some 5 Good Reasons to Visit Cappadocia:

Reason 1: Underground Cities and Cave Systems

Cappadocia is most famous for its underground cities and cave systems that tell a lot about how civilizations used to survive in their own unique ways there. These cities and systems have been located here since thousands of years ago, with the most famous being the Derinkuyu and Kaymakli Underground Cities. These are some of the best places to visit for a thorough look into the history of Cappadocia and a must-visit on any tour to the region.

Check Out: Istanbul Tour (3 Days)

Reason 2: Hot Air Balloon Rides

Hot air balloon rides are the heart and soul of any Cappadocia trip as they should be, considering how many tourists go on these enchanting-yet-thrilling rides every year. These rides happen all over Cappadocia and typically happen every morning just as the sun rises above the rugged terrains and unique formations of its valleys and landscapes, creating a magnificent and enthralling view from the ride itself.

Reason 3: Best Place in Turkey to Have an Thrilling Outdoor Adventure

The Cappadocia landscape is one of the best places to have a thrilling outdoor adventure of all kinds. Whether you want to go on wild horse rides through the rugged landscape, take a enthralling ride around Cappadocia on an ATV or any other adventure sports, this place is the best there is in Turkey for any outdoor adventure.

Check Out: Istanbul Tour (4 Days)

Reason 4: Best Place for Trekking and Hiking in Turkey 

Cappadocia is home to some of the best places to test one’s strength of hiking and trekking on the rugged landscapes of its famous and picturesque valleys. Places like the Love Valley, Pigeon Valley, and the Rose Valley are some of the best places to try hiking and trekking with an added bonus of being in the midst of some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. 

Reason 5: Fascinating Sites and Landscapes

Another good reason to visit Cappadocia is to see and capture the majesty of its ancient sites and landscapes which are some of the most unique things you’ll ever look at. Sites such as Pasabag Fairy Chimneys, Love Valley, Red Valley and Kizilirmak River, Uchisar and its surroundings are some of the best sites to visit to see the famed natural beauty in Cappadocia. Some of these sites such as the famed Fairy Chimneys and Love Valley are home to some unique and out-of-this-world rock formations which are a must-see and something you can’t miss during your trip here.

Check Out: Istanbul & Bursa Package (4 Days)

Frequently Asked Questions About 5 Good Reasons to Visit Cappadocia

Q. Which month is best to visit Turkey?

A. April is the best month to visit Turkey. The temperature during this month is perfect for a visit and April is the start of Turkey’s tourist season, so be prepared for a memorable trip.

Q. How many days in Turkey is enough?

A. 7 to 8 days in Turkey is more than enough to have a complete tour, albeit not a deep and thorough one.

Q. What are some best sites to visit inCappadocia?

A. There are many sites you can visit such as the Pasabag Fairy Chimneys, Love Valley, Rose Valley, Goreme Open Air Museum which all show what Cappadocia can offer.

Make Cappadocia Your Next Travel Destination With Our List Of 5 Good Reasons To Visit Cappadocia: 

Cappadocia is among one of the best regions in Turkey to take a vacation in. Filled with tons of beautiful scenery, amazing attractions, and unique landscapes, it is a place where one must visit and doesn’t generally need any reasons to come visit. It is just that good of a destination that one must visit on a Turkey trip.

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 5 Good Reasons to Visit Cappadocia appeared first on IlinkTurkey.

One thing you’ll find in Turkey is that it has some of the world’s best coastlines and a lot of islands. Turkey’s islands are, in particular, some of the best destinations in the world for any kind of tourist. Filled with tons of attractions, spectacular natural beauty and ancient remains, a trip to Turkey’s islands is necessary if you truly wish to fully explore the country’s beauty. 

This fact and blessing of Turkey having lots of islands is in fact due to the country being located between three seas, the Black Sea, the Aegean Sea, and the famous Mediterranean Sea. With each sea having its own weather patterns and climates, a trip to Turkey’s islands feels different and unique wherever you go and explore, whether it’s the southern islands, north islands, or the western islands on the sea border with Greece.

In today’s blog we’ve made a helpful travel guide on exploring the Top 5 Turkey islands to help travelers know what to visit and see on a trip.

Exploring Turkey’s Islands: The Top 5 Turkey Islands to Visit 

The islands of Turkey each are home to their own unique natural beauty and a share of ancient history. From before the times of the ancient Greeks to today’s modern Turkey these islands have retained their unique charm and allure all the while boasting of being the best destinations in which one can have an unforgettable vacation. To start off, here are the Top 5 islands in Turkey to visit on a trip:

1. Prince’s Islands – Istanbul

The Prince’s Islands in Istanbul are one of the top destinations to visit in Turkey and are home to a unique share of history. They are located close to Istanbul in the Marmara Sea and are one of the prettiest spots in the country. The picturesque islands consist of nine separate land masses, of which only four are accessible to tourists to this date. 

Its history is unique in the regard that many Byzantine royal family members and people belonging to its aristocracy or the elite class were sent to exile to these islands, just far away from the empire’s heated politics in Constantinople. These islands also have an Ottoman history as they were also a vacation spot for many Ottoman elite class members.

However, as time has passed by it has now become a popular tourist spot for its spectacular natural beauty and its history which can be seen in its Ottoman-era mansions and other remnants from some centuries ago.

Check Out: 8 Days Istanbul, Cappadocia & Konya Tour

2. Bozcaada Island – Canakkale Province

The ancient Bozcaada island is another place where one can go on an unforgettable trip to Turkey’s islands. It is located in the Canakkale Province of Turkey, right at the start of the Dardanelles Strait. It is quite famous for its picturesque beaches, amazing history, and a fascinating mixture of cultural heritage. 

Stepping into Bozcaada feels as though you’ve been transported back in time as the scenic island has a history that goes back to Antiquity in the Bronze Age, way before the times of Alexander the Great and others, who controlled this scenic stretch of land. The island hosts the best beaches in the Aegean and is also famous for its water sports.

Check Out: 3 Days Bursa and Bilecik Package

3. Cunda Island – Balikesir Province 

On No.3 in our list of the top 5 Turkey islands, is the famous Cunda or Alibey Island, a place where you can just relax and revel amidst the stunning beauty of nature. It sits in Balikesir province in the Aegean Sea and is a part of the picturesque and stunning islands that adorn the Aegean Sea between Turkey and Greece.

The island is famous for its gastronomy scene and its Turkish/Greek heritage. Which is why you will find some of the best Turkish/Greek sea cuisine on the island. Apart from this food scene the island is the perfect spot to take a vacation, with spectacular beaches, amazing cuisines, and a chance to take a history lesson all present there to make a perfect and memorable trip to Turkey’s islands.

Check Out: 4 Days Urfa and Mardin Tour

4. Gokceada Island – Canakkale Province 

The serene and peaceful Gokceada island is on No.4 of our list and is also a must-visit site for nature lovers in Turkey. It is a fascinating and amazing destination to explore and has its own unique striking beauty combined with a rich cultural heritage. 

It’s an island where you can get a blast to the past with several quaint and beautiful villages adorned all over the picturesque spot.

5. Kalekoy Island – Antalya Province

Although sparsely populated, Kalekoy Island is a hidden and serene spot in the Mediterranean Sea. Located close to Antalya, it’s not the most popular spot for tourists but has everything you would require to have a memorable and private vacation. It houses ruins from the Lycian era and has an old Byzantine castle, some must-visit spots on the island as a part of its cultural heritage. For those who wish to have a trip in solitude and connect with nature, this island is the best spot one could think of.

Check Out: 3 Days Ephesus and Pamukkale Package

When To Visit And Make A Trip To Turkey’s Islands

Summer and spring are the best times to visit any of Turkey’s islands (as you would have guessed it). The weather during those times is perfect for a vacation or a trip as the islands transform into a haven for nature lovers and vacationers. Exploring these islands has its spectacular feel during summer and spring. 

Frequently Asked Questions about A Trip to Turkey’s Islands

Q. What is the best island to visit near Istanbul?

A. The Princes Islands are the best islands to visit near Istanbul. They are home to a lot of unique history, stunning destinations and is one of the best places to visit.

Q. What is the best island to visit in Turkey?

A. You can’t just pick one as there are a lot of contenders for the best island to visit in Turkey such as Kalekoy Islands, Princes Islands, Alibey Island and others.

Check Out: 3 Days Gallipoli and Troy Tour Package

Know How and When To Make A Trip To Turkey’s Islands Memorable With iLinkTurkey’s Guide

Diving deep into a place is how you get the best places to explore and in the case of finding natural beauty and serene spots in Turkey, you can find that in Turkey’s islands. Being some of the best places to explore in Turkey, a trip to Turkey can easily be made more memorable and fun with a trip to Turkey’s islands.

Do you want to explore numerous destinations, and delve into delectable cuisines in Turkey? All with pre-booked accommodations, guided tours, and the opportunity to skip the lines? iLinkTurkey offers a diverse range of guided tour packages for destinations in Turkey. Head over to our packages and book one of our best-selling Turkey packages now.

The post A Guide to Exploring Turkey’s Islands appeared first on IlinkTurkey.

For first-time travelers from America, Istanbul is a place where they can really feel at home. Its culture is a mix of traditional and modern Western culture, and when combined with its history and historic places, it’s an out-of-this-world and a must-visit destination to visit. In this article, we’re going to dive into the top Five Things to Do In Istanbul 2025 that American tourists can do here and what makes this place so special.

Top Five Things to Do In Istanbul 2025: A Helpful Guide

1. Visit and Admire the Grandeur of the Hagia Sophia

The number one thing to do when you’re visiting Istanbul is to go and admire the Hagia Sophia Mosque, a place of grandeur and historical significance, and a relic of the old Constantinople. It’s located in the Fatih District, the district that contains the original Constantinople. The mosque’s history goes back nearly 1500 years, when it was constructed as a wonder of the world and has that status to this day.

2. See the Lavishness of the Topkapi Palace and Museum

The No.2 item on our list for the Top Five Things to Do in Istanbul 2025 is to pay a visit to the Ottoman-era Topkapi Palace Museum. The lavish building was the official residence of the Ottoman Sultans for nearly half a millennium, and its architecture can wow anyone. Its interior is exquisite, and one can trace the events of historical significance that happened here while standing in the large rooms of the now palace-turned-museum.

3. See The Sparkling Blue Waters Of The Bosphorus Strait While On A Cruise

Another top thing to do in Istanbul 2025 is to book a Bosphorus Cruise, an amazing adventure through the strait that divides the city into two. The cruise starts at a specific point in the city and tours the city, from which tourists can sightsee the famous places of the city, all while offering spectacular entertainment and traditional delicious Turkish food onboard.

4. Take A Look At The Products At The Historic Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is another top thing to do in Istanbul 2025. It was established by the Ottomans in the 15th century and was the main place to shop for the citizens of the city for many centuries. To this day, you can find items of many types available here, making it a must-see on any trip to Turkey.

5. Admire The Amazing Blue Interior Of The Blue Mosque

The last item on our list is visiting the Blue Mosque, a picture-by-picture replica of the Hagia Sophia, albeit constructed by the Ottomans. It was built in the 15th century to rival the Hagia Sophia Mosque and is strikingly beautiful and amazing to look at. Its most striking feature is its bluish interior, which was done by importing blue marble from the western city of Izmir. It’s located in the Sultanahmet district and is a core part of the city’s history.

iLinkTurkey’s List Of The Top Five Things To Do In Istanbul 2025

Istanbul is a city that one can visit many times and still not get bored. Whether it is its history, culture, and or its amazing hospitality, it’s a place to savor and relish whether you’re from any part of the world, making it a must-visit on any Turkey trip.

So are you ready to explore the incredible city of Istanbul? All with pre-booked accommodations, guided tours, and the opportunity to skip the lines? iLinkTurkey offers a diverse range of guided tour packages for destinations in Istanbul. Head over to our packages and book one of our best-selling Istanbul packages now.  

The post Top Five Things to Do in Istanbul in 2025 for First-Time American Travelers appeared first on IlinkTurkey.

Being a prominent and primary tourist country, Turkey offers a lot of options for all kinds of all-inclusive resorts, and most importantly in catering to families and especially kids. Whether it’s Antalya and Belek in the south or Izmir in the west, the list of the top all inclusive resorts in Turkey is a winding and unending one. However, in this blog we’ll only go over the list of the top 5 all-inclusive resorts in Turkey to help you and your family know the many options for resorts before going on a luxury-filled trip with your kids to the sunny skies of Turkey.

List of the Top 5 Family Friendly All-Inclusive Resorts in Turkey 

Luxury resorts and Turkey go hand in hand whether it’s in the beaches of the Mediterranean or in the Aegean Sea. You’re likely to find a plethora of options and the best of the best in terms of resorts wherever you go in Turkey. With that in mind here are some options of the best all inclusive resorts in Turkey you should choose on your trip:

1. Concorde De Luxe Resort, Kemeragzi, Antalya Province

A top choice in resorts for families in Antalya, Concorde De Luxe Resort offers everything one could ask for in a resort. It offers access for visitors to its sauna, indoor pool, hot tub, and restaurant, offering a refreshing and relaxing stay for however long one might want to stay.

The rooms are completely soundproof, with air conditioning available in the rooms for those not suited to the atmosphere of Antalya. The types of rooms available in this all inclusive resort in Turkey are variable, with the hotel offering different types of rooms such as, rooms with a view of the city, all-family rooms, bridal suites and much more. A top resort in Antalya, you’d be right making this your No.1 choice for accommodation on your family trip to Turkey.

Check Out: Antalya Tour (3 Days)

2. Acanthus Cennet Barut Collection, Manavgat, Antalya Province

The whole province of Antalya is famous for its tourist appeal with its most appealing property  being its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea. And in this province is another top choice for people looking for the top all inclusive resorts in Turkey or in Antalya near the water, the Acanthus Cennet in Manavgat.

Lauded for a very friendly staff, commitment to quality and cleanliness, this resort is another top option for a family stay in Antalya. The location of the resort to the beach and historical parts of town is closer, and the rooms are modern and comfortable. The resort has its own outdoor pool, access to the beach, offers free Wi-Fi to stay connected during your stay, and has a restaurant in its building with breakfast and kid-friendly buffet available at times to top it all off.

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

3. Palm Wings Ephesus Beach Resort, Selcuk, İzmir Province

The Palm Wings Ephesus Beach Resort is another top all-inclusive resort in Turkey for families, with a close proximity to the Aegean beach a big pro for people wanting to stay in the resort. The hotel also has its own water park, with its lovely slides and good atmosphere a good option for kids and family friendly activities. 

The rooms are spacious, with a lovely view of the beachfront at day and at night. The rooms have air conditioning in them along with a flat screen TV attached to not keep one bored in their stay.

Check Out: Istanbul and Izmir (5 Days)

4. Vikingen Infinity Resort & Spa, Turkler, Alanya Province

Known as the top all-inclusive resort in Turkler, Alanya, this place has it all whether you’re staying with the kids or not. Housing a fitness center, outdoor pool, access to the beachfront you’re likely to have a fantastic and luxurious time. The hotel also has a private 300m of beachfront reserved for its visitors.

This resort‘s rooms are royalty in terms of luxury, with blackout curtains to block out the views, and air conditioning and a flat screen TV to keep you from getting sweaty and keeping you company during your stay. The resort also has a lot of kid-friendly activities such as playing billiards and other games for children in its own entertainment center with lots of opportunities for sports like table tennis, water sports, volleyball, tennis whether you’re a kid or an adult.

Check Out: Istanbul Tour (3 Days)

5. Adora Resort Hotel, Belek, Antalya Province

When searching up resorts in Turkey, you might become familiar with Belek, and this resort multiplies this fame with its immaculate quality and value for your money. The famous Adora Resort Hotel is rated highly by its patrons for many things but mainly for its: cleanliness, service, comprehensive amenities, and comfortable and luxurious rooms.

This top all inclusive resort in Turkey personifies Belek’s reputation for resorts and provides visitors  with many amenities such as entertainment center, a night program and many more etc,. This resort is also located right at the waterfront with glorious views of the waters at night that are likely to become a fond memory to remember for any of its visitors. Whether it’s the comfortable rooms or the many amenities, you’re guaranteed a lovely time in one of the top all inclusive resorts in Turkey.

Check Out: Ephesus and Pamukkale Package (3 Days)

Staying at All-Inclusive Resorts in Turkey for Families: A Perfect Vacation With Family

Going on a vacation to Turkey with your family is one of the best things one could do to bond together as a unit. And what better way to spend this time other than in luxury by staying at the top all inclusive resorts in Turkey on a trip there with your family. By taking this option you’re guaranteed a wonderful time whether you’re exploring Turkey’s many historical sites and taking in its wonderful culture with your family.

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 Top 5 All-Inclusive Resorts in Turkey for Families appeared first on IlinkTurkey.

Whether you’re craving the sweet and sumptuous Baklava and Kunefe, or the various flatbread made into sandwiches of stunning flavors, you’re guaranteed a wonderful cultural experience in one of the world’s best cuisines. In this blog we’ll be going over some of the best traditional Turkish foods for people looking to get a better idea and knowledge of this wonderful cuisine while on their trip to Turkey.

15 Traditional Turkish Foods to Try While in Turkey

Turkish foods and their deliciousness are something else in their own league. Whether you’re eating the sumptuous Cig Kofte or diving deep into the Doner Kebab with delicious Ayran, you’re guaranteed a wonderful meal at any rate in Turkey. If you’re traveling to Erzurum, Antalya, or anywhere in Istanbul, here are some of the best traditional turkish foods you should try while in Turkey:

1. Doner Kebab

Starting off with perhaps the most famous of all the traditional Turkish foods, you’ll find the Doner Kebab everywhere in Turkey and all over the world. The dish is made with meat being vertically roasted by a burner, and shaved off continuously for orders. After shaving off the meat, it is wrapped in pita bread along with slices of cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and yogurt and then served.

2. Simit 

Similar to a traditional bagel but filled with more flavor and chewier, Simit is the best street food you can grab for a quick snack. This street food is traditionally eaten with Turkish tea. It’s topped with sesame,and has been a popular dish ever since. The bread is made from flour, yeast, water and other ingredients which are shaped into a ring shape ladened with sesame seeds and then baked.

3. Cig Kofte

Koftes are a specialty of the traditional Turkish food scene and you especially see this when you take a bite of the luscious Cig Kofte. These koftas, fully cooked minced meat, are served with cucumbers and onions and are also accompanied by Ayran (a Turkish yogurt drink), combining to make one of the best experiences one can have in Turkey with this traditional Turkish food.

4. Lahmacun

A variant of the normal everyday pizza but even more delicious, you’ll forget the taste of the normal one after taking a bite of this wonderful culinary delicacy known as the Turkish pizza. Lahmacun is prepared with minced meat mixed with spices and various vegetables put on top of a flatbread and then baked. 

5. Baklava 

If you go to Turkey and don’t eat the wonderful pastry delight that is the Baklava, you’re missing out on the pride and joy of the dessert scene of the country. Famously known for its crispy and delicate texture, you’ll find people selling Baklava in every corner of Istanbul and in the country, making it a top traditional Turkish food. The filo dough filled with chopped, finely cut nuts and dipped in rosewater after baking is one of the top desserts of the Turkey food scene.

6. Midye Dolma

Midye Dolma are a variety of the various dolma served in Turkey. The fascinating dish consists of mussels, which are first cleaned and then boiled in hot water to detach the shells. After boiling the mussels, various types of ingredients such as oil, spices, and rice, are stuffed in the mussels along with the meat to enhance the flavor.

7. Cag Kebab

Imported from Erzurum over the centuries, Cag Kebab is another kind of the delicious variants of Kebabs that Turkey has come to be famous for making. Cag Kebab consists of lamb that is marinated for many hours and is attached to a horizontal spit that keeps continuously roasting the meat to make it completely tender. The meat is served in the form of skewers or put in Lavash bread and drunk with Ayran to complete the mixture of wonderful flavors in one of the most famous traditional Turkish foods.

8. Manti

Mantis are small dumplings that are stuffed with ground meat and served with drinks to make one’s experience even more fantastic. They are served with a garlic sauce or yogurt, and sometimes with mushrooms other than ground meat.

9. Adana Kebap

Who goes to Turkey and doesn’t try the famous Adana Kebap? Famous for the city with the same namesake, these wonderful meat skewers are a royalty in Turkish cuisine after the Doner Kebap, and are a top traditional Turkish food one must try.

10. Menemen

Menemen consists of scrambled eggs made with peppers, tomatoes and topped with sausages or cheese. They are commonly eaten at both breakfast and as a dish for dinner or lunch.

11. Pide

Flatbreads are a specialty of Turkish cuisine and a regular in the traditional Turkish foods, and one of the most famous and delicious is the Pide bread. Having a boat shaped structure, it is filled with cheese, vegetables and meat to make a fantastic sandwich.

12. Corba (Soups of Various Kinds)

Typically made with boiled meat in water or with lentils, Corba’s story goes back hundreds of years when the Turks arrived in Anatolia, making them close-to-the heart traditional Turkish food. Some of the most known are the Tarhana and Mercimek Corbasi typically made with lentils or vegetables.

13. Kuru Fasulye

Considered by some as the national dish of Turkey, this dish is made with beans that are stewed along with olive oil and tomato sauce. White beans are used in this dish, along with other ingredients such as meats or vegetables in this traditional Turkish food.

14. Borek

Turkeys and pastries have a special relationship, and one can especially see this with the special pastry known as Borek. The pastry is typically filled with meat or cheese or spinach and is also a prominent traditional Turkish food, served from Ottoman times in the forms of pies that are cut into pieces to make a single portion.

15. Famous Turkish Delights

Lokum or Turkish delights, are another traditional Turkish food and one of its top food highlights in the world. They are made with gelatin mixed with many flavors, such as pomegranate, nuts, etc.

Eating Traditional Turkish Foods in Turkey: A Wonderful Adventure for Food Lovers

Turkish cuisine and its food culture are one of the best in the world, with their varieties and tastes occupying a special place in the list of the world’s different cuisines. Whether you’re trying out the traditional Turkish foods such as the Corba or taking a bite out of the tasty Adana Kebap, every bite and sip will be something unique and wonderful.

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 15 Must-Try Traditional Turkish Food in Turkey appeared first on IlinkTurkey.

Conquering the skies on hot balloon rides in Cappadocia, visiting the tomb of Rumi, going on a Bosphorus cruise, etc. these activities present only a tip of the iceberg while choosing the best things to do in Turkey. For first time visitors, picking and deciding what to do and what to visit can be a little tough. That’s why  for today’s blog, we’ve made a guide to help travelers (new or old) find the best things to do in Turkey on their trip and make their experience to more easier.

A Complete Guide For the Best Things To Do in Turkey 

Cappadocia and Istanbul are the top destinations that come to mind wherever you think of Turkey and there’s a reason for that. For the distinct travel experiences they offer to the diverse cultural, natural and historical landscape they are home to, both Istanbul and Cappadocia are riddled with hidden and famous places to visit. Here are some of the best things to do in Cappadocia and Istanbul:

1. Visit Istanbul’s Byzantine and Ottoman Heritage Sites

Istanbul has been at the crossroads and the stronghold of some of the greatest civilizations of all times in its wider region: mainly the Romans/Byzantines and the Ottomans. Their effect on the city can easily be seen in the form of  the wonders of the world structures such as the magnificent Hagia Sophia, the splendid Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. Visiting these places is one of the best things to do in Istanbul and can help one know a lot about the history of these structures and their role.

Check Out: Istanbul Tour (3 Days)

2. Go on a Bosphorus Cruise

Another wonderful thing to do in Istanbul is go on a memorable Bosphorus cruise. Seeing the wonderful atmosphere from both the European and Asian sides of the city, the fascinating effect of the water, and eating delicious Turkish food in the night during the cruise tour can make this one of the best experiences on a trip to Turkey and one of the best things to do in Istanbul.

Check Out: Istanbul Tour (4 Days)

3. Conquer the Skies in the Fascinating Balloon Rides in Cappadocia

While visiting Cappadocia, one of the main and best things to do in Cappadocia on your list should be going on its signature hot air balloon rides. One of the best ways to appreciate the unique landscape of the Cappadocia region, you’ll find it among the top experiences on your trip there.

4. Experience Local Markets at the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul

Located in the historic Fatih district, the Grand Bazaar has been Istanbul’s most well-known bazaar and prime shopping destination since the 15th century with visiting it a top item on everyone’s list of things to do in Turkey while they’re there. The bazaar is a piece of the Historical Peninsula and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. With its bustling culture and vibrant daily life, it resembles a secret city of its own, full of wonder and treasures . 

Check Out: Istanbul Tour (5 Days)

5. Witness Beauty at the Pasabag Fairy Chimneys

As you step into Pasabag, prepare to be transported into a fairytale-like realm. The Fairy Chimneys, with their tall, slender pillars crowned by mushroom-shaped rock caps, exude an otherworldly charm that sparks your imagination. Beyond their visual appeal, the Fairy Chimneys of Pasabag offer a serene and peaceful ambiance that makes visiting this paradise-like place one of the best things to do Turkey and Cappadocia.

These unique geological wonders are the result of volcanic activity and erosion over thousands of years, creating a landscape that seems straight out of a storybook, with visiting them being one of the best things to do in Turkey for a traveler and a nature lover.

6. Delve into Istanbulian Cafe Culture at Balat

Balat is a word derived from the Greek word Palation. It’s a historic neighborhood in the Fatih District of Istanbul. Because of its colorful and bright homes, and being littered with all kinds of cafes, restaurants, and hotels, it serves as a natural attraction and a hotbed for tourists visiting the city.

Balat stands out as a unique and beautiful neighborhood to visit because of its proximity to the Golden Horn as well as having a diverse and interesting culture that makes it a must-visit place and one of the best things do in Turkey while you’re there.

Check Out: Istanbul & Bursa Package (4 Days)

7. Checkout the Skills of Workmen at Avanos Pottery

Home to rich history and culture, Avanos is a charming town in Cappadocia renowned for its rich tradition of pottery-making. The town is famous for its historical ambiance that can be felt as soon as you step foot into it. At the heart of Avanos lies the artistry of pottery, where skilled artisans have honed their craft for centuries, creating exquisite and unique pieces that capture the essence of the region.

When exploring Avanos, tourists should take a moment to browse through the charming pottery shops that line the streets, offering an array of ceramics ranging from decorative vases and plates to functional kitchenware and delicate ornaments that make visiting it one of the best things to do in Turkey. 

8. Visit the Kaymakli Underground City in Cappadocia

Situated beneath the city’s surface, Kaymakli is an expansive underground city that offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient civilizations that once thrived in this region and visiting this gem is one of the best things to do in Turkey while you’re there. Built thousands of years ago, this underground city was ingeniously designed to provide shelter, security, and a thriving community for its inhabitants.

The dimly lit passageways and the eerie ambiance create an atmosphere that is both captivating and surreal. This destination appeals to both history enthusiasts and those with a thirst for exploration that makes it among the list of the best things to do in Turkey.

Check Out: Istanbul and Izmir Tour (5 Days)

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Things to Do in Turkey

Q. Which month is best to visit Turkey?

A. April is the best month to visit Turkey. The temperature during this month is perfect for a visit and April is the start of Turkey’s tourist season, so be prepared for a memorable trip.

Q. How many days in Turkey is enough?

A. 7 to 8 days in Turkey is more than enough to have a complete tour, albeit not a deep and thorough one.

Q. What are some best sites to visit in Istanbul and Cappadocia?

A. There are many sites you can visit such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace Museum, Pasabag Fairy Chimneys, Love Valley, Rose Valley, Goreme Open Air Museum and more.

The Best Things To Do in Turkey: Perfect Activities to Spending the Best Time There

Turkey is one of the best places in the world for a tourist of any kind: the number of wonderful and best things to do in Turkey can make week there one of the best journeys one could go on in their life. Whether you’re hiking in its mountains, watching its fascinating cultural shows, or blending in its wonderful culture, you’ll find your time in Turkey nothing short of incredible.

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 From Istanbul to Cappadocia: The Best Things to Do in Turkey appeared first on IlinkTurkey.

Due to factors like these, it’s become one of the most known and must-visit destinations in the world. But even before you think about visiting Turkey, there’s still some research you should do that will help you know what it is famous for and what places you should visit. So for this blog, we’ve made a list of the 13 most surprising facts about Turkey that you should know about, that will help you know what and why it is famous to help you prepare for your trip. 

13 Surprising Facts to Know About Turkey

Turkey’s special history and culture makes it ever the most unique hence contributing to a lot of many special things that came out of there and those still present that makes it a tempting place to visit adn to know about. So, here are 13 surprising facts you should definitely know about Turkey before visiting:

1. Mount Ararat is located there

The first fact that will surprise you about Turkey is that the religiously important Mount Ararat is located there. Mount Ararat is a very famous mountain and a high peak in eastern Turkey and Armenia where it is believed that Noah’s Ark, a ship or ark built by the Prophet Noah himself is located there.

2. It has a very famous tea drinking culture

Another fact about Turkey is that it has a very dedicated tea drinking culture. Turks drink a lot of cups of tea every day and are known as one of the highest consumers of tea.

3. The first ever coin in human history was minted in Turkey

Before antiquity, a civilization in ancient Anatolia known as the Lydians minted the world’s first ever coin to be used as currency. Thus Turkey is home to one of humanity’s first ever modes of currency. 

Check Out: Cappadocia Package (3 Nights)

4. Two wonders of the world in the Temple of Artemis and Mausoleum at Halicarnassus were in Turkey 

Although we hear a lot about today’s current wonders of the world, did you know there also used to be ancient wonders of the world? Also two of them used to be in Turkey. The Temple of Artemis and the Tomb of Halicarnassus in today’s Bodrum were some of the world’s most iconic structures in the world at that time. Although today, only ruins remain of those special structures. 

5. The pretty Tulips were first cultivated by the Turks

The Tulip flower was first cultivated by Turkic people and was brought to Europe and the rest of the world through Turkey. 

6. Troy was located in Turkey

The legendary and iconic city of Troy is located in Western Turkey. Troy used to be a popular player in ancient Anatolian politics and was a big city until it was destroyed by invaders. Today only ruins of the iconic city can be seen at its original location.

7. Europe’s oldest underground train systems in in Turkey

The Tünel funicular in Turkey’s Istanbul is the oldest underground railway system that still operates. The underground system was first opened in the year 1875. Today it connects the Istanbulian districts of Karakoy and Beyoglu, making for a very efficient and cheap/easy way to travel between the city. It is second in age only to Britain’s London Underground which itself was opened in the year 1863.

8. Turkey’s Istanbul is located in and straddles two continents

The Turkish city of Istanbul, which was once a capital to two famous empires, is famous for being situated on the continents of Europe and Asia. It is known as the gateway to Europe with the two halves of the city being cut in half by the Bosphorus Strait. 

Check Out: Istanbul Tour (4 Days)

9. In Turkey there are nearly 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites to explore

Ancient Turkey was the hotbed for the advent of civilization and as such many remains from ancient civilization still remain for display today. From temples to castles, houses and such, Turkey is a must visit place for a historical tour.

Check Out: Antalya Tour (3 Days)

10. Turkish people have an intake of about 3x their own weight in bread every year.

Turkish people are known for being avid consumer of bread, in fact they have the highest bread consumption rates per person in the whole world. Which links to their roots of being originally from central Asia, which is famous for being very high on bread. The cuisine of Turkey heavily incorporates bread and it is eaten daily in large amounts and eaten with generally everything. 

11. The sumptuous cherries were introduced to Europe through Turkey

In 74 BC during Roman wars in Anatolia, a Roman general brought cherries from Anatolia to the Roman city of Rome. Cherries are believed to have originated in today’s Turkey. 

Check Out: Istanbul and Cappadocia ( 7 Nights)

12. Santa Claus originated in the city of Patara, Turkey

Did you know that Santa Claus, a jolly present delivering figure in christian tradition actually originated in Turkey’s Patara, according to their beliefs. According to them, Santa Claus was originally a monk known as Nicholas whose good deeds made the populace around him call a saint, hence the name Saint Nicholas came to popularity which was shortened to Santa Claus.

13. Turkey’s Istanbul, just like Italy’s Rome is built on seven hills

Istanbul has been the heart of Turkey for many centuries and is built on seven hills just like the Italian city of Rome. It makes sense when you know the city was founded by the Romans themselves in the first century AD and had to make a tribute to their capital city in the west. 

Check Out: Istanbul Tour (5 Days)

Frequently Asked Questions About 13 Surprising Facts about Turkey You Should Know About

Q. Is 1 week enough in Turkey?

A. Yes 1 week is just enough to explore all of Turkey, although it will put a lot of strain on travelers due to long distance journeys, and other logistics related problems and not being able to explore and see all the attractions properly.

Q. What is the best month to visit Turkey?

A. April is the best month to visit Turkey as the weather is pleasant and the scenery in the country is spectacular to see apart from all the amazing attractions and places to visit.

Know All About Turkey and its Charms with iLinkTurkey’s Surprising Facts

Turkey is undoubtedly one of the best countries to see as a traveler and one where you’ll find bits of history and info at every corner of its streets. With Turkey being a country that’s had a deep influence over many historical events in the world, it sure is a place where you’ll be entertained and shocked whenever you visit this charming and unique destination. 

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 13 Surprising Facts About Turkey You Should Know About appeared first on IlinkTurkey.

One minute you’re having doner kebabs minutes after landing, and the next you’re trying some spicy knock-your-socks-off butter chicken has a chaser. Because there are so many choices in the Istanbul street food scene, even the seasoned of the seasoned foodie can get overwhelmed if they are not prepared enough. For first-time travelers visiting the wonderful city of Istanbul to explore its street food’s unending charms, knowing vital information such as where to find the best street food, and how to get there is important. That’s why we’ve created a guide for travelers from all over the world to easily identify the top ten street foods in Istanbul and dive deep into one of the best cuisines in the world.

Top 10 Delicious Street Foods You Must Try in Istanbul

The delicious and diverse street food in Istanbul is one of the top highlights of the city aside from its wonderful history. Whether you’re trying the Cig Kofte or the sumptuous Baklava, you’re unlikely to try a dish you’ll be disappointed by. For first-time travelers looking to get a picture of the sumptuous Istanbul street food culture, here are some of the best street foods you can try in Istanbul:

1. Tantuni

Tantuni is a Turkish steak wrap that is highly rated by everyone who eats it. The dish consists of lavash bread filled with uniquely cut beef that is boiled in salt water and then fried. Apart from the beef, the wrap is also filled with tomato slices, green peppers, parsley, and onions to enhance the flavor and give it a more crunchy texture when taking a bite of this magnificent dish.

Check Out: Istanbul Tour (3 Days)

2. Simit 

Similar to a traditional bagel but filled with more flavor and chewier, Simit is the best street food you can grab for a quick snack.  This Istanbul street food is traditionally eaten with Turkish tea. It’s topped with sesame, which links this food back to the 1500s, and has been a popular dish ever since. The bread is made from flour, yeast, water and other ingredients which are shaped into a ring shape, and are ladened with sesame seeds and then baked.

3. Doner Kebab

You’ll find the Doner Kebab everywhere in Istanbul and all over the world. The dish is made with meat being vertically roasted by a burner, and shaved off continuously for orders. After shaving off the meat, it is wrapped in pita bread along with slices of cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and yogurt and then served. Other variations of the Doner Kebab are also served with rice on a plate, contributing to a more delicious and diverse taste in the Istanbul street food scene.

4. Balik Ekmek

For those wanting an escape from the beef and lamb-heavy Istanbul street food, the Balik Ekmek dish near the Galata bridge offers a light but equally delicious fish alternative to other beef and lamb dishes. The dish is prepared by using fish like mackerel or sardine, which are grilled until they are fully cooked and juicy and then put inside a traditional Turkish bread. Along with the fish, tomatoes, lettuce, onions and peppers, some sauces are drizzled on the sandwich to give it a more delicious flavor. 

Check Out: Istanbul Tour (4 Days)

5. Midye Dolma

Midye Dolma is another top street food in Istanbul one must try on their first-ever visit. The dish consists of mussels, which are first cleaned and then boiled in hot water to detach the shells. After boiling the mussels, various types of ingredients such as oil, spices, and rice, are stuffed in the mussels along with the meat to enhance the flavor.

6. Cig Kofte

Koftes are a specialty of Turkey and you especially see this when you take a bite of the luscious Cig Kofte. They are also a huge part of the Istanbul street food scene and are highly rated by everyone who tries them. These koftes, fully cooked minced meat, are served with cucumbers and onions and are also accompanied by Ayran (a Turkish yogurt drink), combining to make one of the best experiences in the Istanbul street food scene one can have.

7. Lahmacun

A variant of the normal everyday pizza but even more delicious, you’ll forget the taste of the normal one after taking a bite of this wonderful culinary delicacy known as the Turkish pizza. Lahmacun is prepared with minced meat mixed with spices and various vegetables put on top of a flatbread and then baked. One of the top highlights of Istanbul street food, you’d be hard pressed to find a single flaw about this wonderful culinary delicacy. 

Check Out: Istanbul Tour (5 Days)

8. Baklava

If you go to Turkey and don’t eat the wonderful pastry delight that is the Baklava, you’re missing out on the pride and joy of the dessert scene of the country. Famously known for its crispy and delicate texture, you’ll find people selling Baklava in every corner of Istanbul and in the country. The filo dough filled with chopped, finely cut nuts and dipped in rosewater after baking is one of the top desserts of the Istanbul street food scene.

9. Kumpir 

Kumpir is another top street food in Istanbul and is made with a baked potato filled with various kinds of toppings. For this dish, a baked potato is sliced in half and filled with toppings such as corn, carrots, mushrooms, pickles, and ketchup to make a wonderful combination of various ingredients meshed into a wonderful dish.

10. Cag Kebab

Imported from Erzurum over the centuries, Cag Kebab is another kind of the delicious variants of Kebabs that Turkey has come to be famous for making. Cag Kebab consists of lamb that is marinated for many hours and is attached to a horizontal spit that keeps continuously roasting the meat to make it completely tender. The meat is served in the form of skewers or put in Lavash bread and drunk with Ayran to complete the mixture of wonderful flavors.

Check Out: Istanbul & Bursa Package (4 Days)

How to Navigate Istanbul’s Street Food Scene

The Istanbul street food scene is a wonderful haven for all types of travelers to get lost in. Whether it’s eating the sumptuous Doner Kebab or getting lost in the plethora of ingredients in the baked potato dish of Kumpir, the whole scene of the street food in Istanbul can seem unending. In Istanbul you’ll find people in every nook and cranny of the city selling all of the top dishes in the whole region. For first-time travelers, it’s important to have complete know-how about the vast food scene of Istanbul to make your experience more comfortable and exciting. So without further ado, here are some steps that first-time travelers should take to easily navigate the vast and bustling food scene of Istanbul.

Do Research on the Best Istanbul Street Foods 

In general, researching about the food scene in any city is a good step one should take to be aware of where you can find the best culinary delicacies. In Istanbul, you are likely to find many street food vendors selling various types of foods. It’s important to do online research to find which neighborhood has the best and has a good seating area to get a perfect experience on your first trip to Istanbul. Places like the Kadikoy Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar are one of the spots in the Istanbul street food scene where you’re guaranteed to have a good meal.

Book Food Tours for Istanbul’s Street Foods

Another step first-time travelers should take is booking food and full tours of Istanbul to get a more complete picture of the food scene in addition to exploring various fascinating destinations in the city. Travel experts like iLinkTurkey offer multiple-day tours of Istanbul, where you get a chance to explore the city’s wonderful history, engage in various recreational activities, and fully dive into the wonderful culinary scene of the historically contemporary place.

Watch Food Vlogs of the Best Istanbul’s Street Foods

Another way to get a complete idea of the Istanbul street food arena for travelers is by watching food vlogs of local artists and tourists eating and finding the best foods in Istanbul. By watching vlogs, you can get a general picture of where you can find the best foods in Istanbul and the best way to get there.

Check Out: Istanbul and Izmir Tour (5 Days)

Istanbul’s Food Scene: A Delectable Haven for Foodies and Travelers Alike

Istanbul’s street food scene remains unparalleled. The major reason being the way it incorporates cuisines from all over the country and various surrounding regions. The City of Streets Feasts offer all kinds of culinary delicacies for people of all tastes. Whether you’re taking a bite into the pizza-like Lahmacun or eating Simit with traditional Turkish tea, Istanbul street food is an art cherished by all of its inhabitants and many travelers from all over the world.

For anyone wanting to embark on a wonderful street food experience that is unlikely to disappoint even the most picky of eaters, Turkey is your next destination. So do you want to explore the culinary landscape of Turkey and immerse yourself in its culture? iLinkTurkey offers a variety of guided tour packages for destinations in Turkey. Go head on over to our packages and book one of our top-rated Turkey packages now.

The post Istanbul Street Food 101: Essential Eats for First-Time Visitors appeared first on IlinkTurkey.

Because of its rich history and traditions comprising several intriguing customs that are rare to be found anywhere else in the world, Turkey has become a well-known tourist destination. The lasting influence of other civilizations such as Greek, Armenian, Georgian, and Arabic also plays a big part in Turkey’s local culture and customs.

It may be nearly impossible to sum up Turkish culture and traditions in a single post. However, we’ve selected a few of the most intriguing and common customs that you’ll undoubtedly encounter when visiting the country. 

10 Core Customs and Traditions From Turkey’s Color Palette of Cultures

Having prior knowledge of major Turkish customs and traditions can help tourists make their trip a memory treasured by both them and the natives of the country. Here are some major customs and traditions from the rich Turkish culture natives still follow these days:

1.   Core Values and Hospitality 

Every culture upholds core values like honesty, justice, fairness, equality, and so on. There are other values, in addition to these universal ones, that might be particular to a nation or essential to its identity. For instance, older people are treated with great respect and occupy a specific place of honour and care in Turkish society.

The idea of a family is revered, and good neighbour values are upheld in every town or district. As a result of this closeness and sincerity of neighbourly ties, it’s quite typical for one neighbour to knock on another’s door and ask for a cup of tea or sugar. Another core value in Turkish culture is hospitality, the most famous identity of the Turkey’s color palette of culture. The host or hostess will give a stranger their last slice of bread, especially in rural places.

They enjoy serving food and beverages to friends, neighbours, coworkers, and even complete strangers. They also enjoy lending a hand to those in need, whether it be individually or collectively. When a crisis strikes someplace, the locals immediately get together and help the ones in need by any means possible. 

2.   Expressions and Greetings 

Turkish people enjoy celebrating and empathising, and they frequently use everyday greetings in their conversations, even with tourists to express their gratitude and warmth.

Common greetings and expressions include: “Gecmis Olsun,” which means get well soon, “Hos Geldiniz,” which means “welcome”, “Güle Güle”, which means “goodbye”, “Teşekkürler” which means “thank you”, and “Rica Ederim”, which means “you’re welcome”. Knowing a few Turkish greetings and expressions will give you tremendous respect from the natives as a tourist.

3.   The Concept of Nazar Boncugu (Evil Eye)

The Nazar Boncuk is an amulet made from glass paste and symbolises jealousy and envy in others, which, according to the belief, can harm a person or their property in various ways. According to Turkish culture, this amulet shields its wearer from negative energy by absorbing them.

The Nazar Boncuk can be found hanging on doors, at workplaces, on the necks of natives as a necklace, on taxi or bus mirrors, carved in building walls, or on the subway. It’s also a very popular object to be given as a gift or bought as a souvenir.

4.   The Tradition of Görücülük (Courtship for Marriage)

Turkish custom dictates that when a family wishes their son to get married, they first visit the bride’s home and her family to hold an initial gathering. If all goes well, they ask for her hand in marriage.

It’s customary for the bride-to-be to prepare Turkish tea or coffee and serve it to her prospective in-laws during these courtship visits so they can form good relations with each other and is a very common tradition in Turkey’s color palettes of culture.

5.   Kına Gecesi (Henna Night for the Bride)

The Henna Night is a celebration before the wedding focusing on the bride and her friends and family. Henna is customarily painted on the bride’s hands, which historically represents blood and signifies the bride’s transformation from girlhood to womanhood.

The night involves beautiful dresses, a lot of crying and dancing, henna-dyed hands and delicious food. Brides practise the tradition of having henna nights with friends and family before weddings. The tradition’s origins are unknown, however, some people claim that it goes back to the days of the earliest nomads.

6.   Food and Staples

Food is an essential element of Turkish color palette of cultures. Turkish women typically spend hours in the kitchen preparing elaborate meals. The most important meal of the day is breakfast, which traditionally consists of eggs, cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives.

The staple for Turkish cuisine is having bread at every meal, whether it be breakfast or dinner. Other traditional dishes include Döner kebap, which is spicy meat roasted on a rotisserie, Yaprak sarma, which is grape leaves stuffed with spicy rice or meat, and Baklava, which is a butter-heavy dessert.  

7.   Kirkpinar Festival (Oil Wrestling)

One of the oldest sports in Turkey, oil wrestling has its origins in prehistoric Mesopotamia. Since 1362, the renowned Kirkpinar oil-wrestling competition in Edirne has been held yearly and wrestlers from all over the country participate.

The competitors wrestle while covered in oil until a winner is determined when the opponent’s navel faces the sky. Oil wrestling matches can last up to 30 to 40 minutes and is an activity almost all tourists and natives enjoy.

8.   Kilim (Turkish Rugs and Carpets)

Rugs and carpets adorn the floors of every Turkish home. These handmade carpets have also gained popularity as holiday souvenirs due to their intricate decoration and artistic value. The history of Kilims travels back to the nomadic times when the native tribes had animal husbandry as their economic resource.

The art of dyeing and weaving yarn and wool into intricate designs soon became a fundamental element in today’s Turkey culture. Back in the day, these carpets and rugs were considered gifts fit to send to kings and queens of different empires and nations that have now become a symbol of the Turkey’s color palette of culture.

9.   Custom of Gift-Giving

Turks are kind people who frequently invite new acquaintances over for dinner and have specific etiquette for gift-giving. Visitors are provided with slippers so they can leave their shoes at the door, and plenty of food is presented, which if you decline, will be considered impolite.

If you accept an invitation to a Turkish home, it’s customary to bring the host a present, which typically involves pastries such as Baklava. In traditional weddings, the family and close friends give the bride or the couple something gold, like a bangle or gold coins, which is a customary wedding gift from guests. The closer you are to the couple, the more valuable your gift will be.

10.   Çay (The Tradition of Tea)

Despite popular belief, Turks only consume coffee on a limited number of weekdays. The preferred beverage everywhere is black or dark-red tea, in tulip-shaped glasses, with or without sugar. Serving Turkish tea is a tradition that symbolises offering hospitality in a tulip-shaped glass.

No matter where you go in Turkey, whether it’s to someone’s house, a store, or even a real estate shop, it’s customary to be welcomed with a cup of Turkish tea. After spending even a month in the country, you’ll find yourself craving it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

A Culture Full of History and Hospitality : Turkey’s Color Palette of Cultures

With its heritage so ancient, it’s nearly impossible to assemble all of Turkey’s customs and traditions altogether in one sitting. However, as a tourist visiting the country for the first time, knowing the major values and elements of the country’s culture can help you form a bond with the natives and enjoy a memorable trip you’ll be unlikely to forget anytime soon.

With the scenery so beautiful and the people incredibly welcoming, enjoy an educational and diverse trip to Turkey by booking our travel tours at iLinkTurkey. With our perfectly crafted travel experiences, you’ll find yourself learning more about this culturally-rich country without even intending to.

The post A Guide to Turkey’s Palette of Colourful Culture appeared first on IlinkTurkey.

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.