The Best Cities in Turkey – Top Travel Destinations to Visit

Turkey stands as a remarkable crossroads where East meets West, offering an incomparable blend of ancient heritage, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. For travellers seeking their next adventure or those considering a new home abroad, exploring the best cities in Turkey provides an excellent starting point to discover what this fascinating country has to offer.

From Istanbul’s mesmerising skyline of minarets and modern skyscrapers to Antalya’s stunning Mediterranean coastline and Bodrum’s luxurious seaside charm, each Turkish city presents its own distinct character and allure. This guide explores Turkey’s most captivating urban destinations, ideal for those looking to visit, relocate, or perhaps invest in this dynamic nation where tradition and innovation coexist in perfect harmony.

Istanbul – The Gateway Between East and West

Of course, no travel guide is complete without thinking of Istanbul first. This modern city is not just a cultural heritage place, it also represents a gateway between the European part of Turkey and the Asian part of Turkey.

A fraction of the places to visit here are:

• The Blue Mosque
• Hagia Sophia
• Galata Tower
• Basilica Cistern
• Topkapi Palace
• Grand Bazaar
• Dolmabahçe Palace
• Taksim

An Istanbul travel guide can help you map out your itinerary and squeeze the most out of your time there. The best way to manage that is to stay connected to the Internet. You can stay connected while saving data with Turkey eSIM plans, so make sure that you reap their benefits. Istanbul is among the best cities to visit in Turkey throughout the whole year. But if you want to avoid big crowds, try not to plan your trip here during the summer.

Antalya – The Gem of the Turkish Riviera

Antalya is the ideal Mediterranean getaway for people who want to avoid the winter cold. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, this city is a popular choice for those looking for a peaceful beach holiday. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach or exploring the city’s rich history, navigating the local customs and finding the best spots is a lot easier with an Antalya travel guide in hand. Antalya always manages to charm guests with its unique blend of leisure and discovery.

Among the finest beach towns in Turkey, Antalya features a few of the most beautiful coastline locations. While the ancient Hadrian’s Gate and lovely Kaleiçi (the old town) highlight the city’s rich history and architecture, Lara Beach features golden sands and crystal-clear waters. With so much to see and do, it is a must-visit place for both leisure and discovery.

With fresh, locally caught seafood provided in many of its coastal restaurants, seafood enthusiasts will also find Antalya to be a gastronomic treat. The food here will undoubtedly amaze you, whether you are eating in one of the city’s historic areas or having lunch by the sea.

Cappadocia – A Dreamlike Landscape

Do you dream about taking a photo or recording a video of that iconic hot air balloon scenery? Well, that’s what Cappadocia is known for. Of course, you can also climb aboard these balloons and go for a ride yourself. If you’re afraid of heights, you can either watch the action unfold or go for a hike in the valleys. With so many hidden gems scattered around, having a Cappadocia travel guide on hand is a real lifesaver, helping you uncover the best spots and make the most of your visit.

One of the things that makes Cappadocia the best tourist city in Turkey is the fact that it has plenty of other attractions – the fairy chimneys, the underground cities, and the Göreme Open Air Museum are just a few to mention. The best time to visit Cappadocia is summer, but if you don’t like the heat, go in spring. Make sure you taste traditional dishes such as Testi kebab while visiting.

Ankara – The Capital of Turkey

Ankara is a vibrant city that often gets overlooked due to the major tourist destinations in the West. The decision to make Ankara the capital of Turkey was made by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in 1923. Before that, the capital of the then-Ottoman Empire was actually Istanbul.

If you’re into sightseeing, you can explore the old quarter and visit Kızılay Square. Some of the top attractions are Atatürk’s Mausoleum, the Museum of Anatolian Civilisations, and the Kocatepe Mosque. This world-famous city has its roots all the way back to the Bronze Age. If we had to pick our top location, we would choose Atatürk’s Mausoleum.

Whether you’re into history, food, or nightlife, navigating these diverse attractions is easier with an Ankara travel guide, helping you make the most of your time in the city. Thanks to the bustling streets and the lively nightlife, Ankara is also one of the best cities in Turkey for students and young adults.

Alanya – A Coastal Paradise with Rich History

Alanya, located along the Mediterranean coast, is a stunning resort city and one of Turkey’s top destinations for a beach getaway. Known for its golden beaches and crystal-clear waters, Alanya is perfect for a relaxing holiday with family or friends. It’s also home to a vibrant nightlife scene, making it a great destination for those who want to unwind by day and enjoy the nightlife by night.

For history enthusiasts, Alanya is full of fascinating historical landmarks. The city is home to the impressive Alanya Castle, perched on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean, offering panoramic views of the city and the sea. Another notable site is the Red Tower, a symbol of Alanya’s historical significance, which dates back to the 13th century. Alanya is also close to the ancient Roman city of Side, which adds to its allure for history lovers.

Don’t just wing it, check out our Alanya travel guide to plan your days without missing out on the highlights. If you plan to explore nearby coastal towns, renting a car is a convenient option to enjoy the scenic drive along the Mediterranean.

Bodrum – The Aegean Dream

As we continue our grand tour of Turkey, let’s head to Bodrum — the coastal paradise. Known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, Bodrum is a dream destination for those looking to unwind and explore. Whether you’re looking for exciting boat trips across the Aegean Sea or diving into vibrant underwater worlds, Bodrum has something for every adventure seeker. It’s easy to get overwhelmed, but our trusted Bodrum travel guide breaks things down nicely, making it easier to plan your visit and enjoy all that this beautiful destination has to offer.

Social media has helped Bodrum to become a popular destination quickly, particularly for young people wanting to experience its vibrant nightlife and amazing views. But if you want to avoid the summer throng and truly experience the splendour of its coast, think about going during the off-season. You may also use this time to see historical sites such as Bodrum Castle, which offers amazing panoramas of the city and sea.

Bodrum doesn’t let down when it comes to eating. The native food is a celebration of fresh, olive oil-based dishes that reflect Aegean features. From grilled fish to mezes, the gastronomic experience here will surely exceed your expectations and have you wanting more.

Göbeklitepe – The World’s Oldest Temple Complex

Many consider Turkey one of the key nations that led to modern civilisation. The ancient times here had many events, which is why there are countless places to visit. For this one, we go back in history and explore wonders such as:

• Göbeklitepe archaeological site
• T-shaped monoliths
• Ancient stone pillars

According to available data, the Göbeklitepe archaeological site was inhabited somewhere around 9,500 BCE to 8,000 BCE, making it one of the oldest, if not the oldest settlements that humanity has ever found.

The sheer historical meaning of this place makes it a huge tourist attraction. If you want to truly experience its beauty, we would advise you to visit this popular destination during the off-season.

Fethiye – Where Nature Meets Culture

Fethiye is usually at the top of the list among Turkey’s greatest family-friendly places. This lovely city is a wonderful spot for a vacation with loved ones since it offers the appropriate mix of nature and culture. Relaxing beneath the shade of palms or lying on pristine shores will keep you busy – all this will be set against remarkable natural beauty.

Fethiye has much to offer for those who want a little history. Showcasing the tombs and buildings of the old city, the Tlos ruins offer an intriguing look into the past. Adventurers seeking a little discovery will also find the beautiful Butterfly Valley and the famed Lycian Way waiting. Ölüdeniz shore is a must-see if you like to just relax on the shore. Known for its breathtaking views of the blue sea, it’s one of the most famous beaches in Turkey.

Fethiye guarantees a great combination of pleasure and excitement for all types of visitors, whether you are climbing the renowned Lycian Way, discovering ancient sites, or sunbathing.

Bursa – Ottoman Heritage & Thermal Springs

If you’re looking for a city that combines history, culture, and a relaxed lifestyle, Bursa is a top choice. Often considered one of the finest cities in Turkey for living, it attracts both residents and visitors because of its fairly reasonable cost of living. Many expats and tourists naturally pick Bursa for a more leisurely, fulfilling experience.

Rich in Ottoman legacy, Bursa features famous sites such as:

• Bursa Grand Mosque
• Koza Han
• Green Tomb
• Irgandi Bridge

All these places provide insight into the history and unique style of the city. Ride the cable car for a stunning city perspective and take in the breathtaking panoramas from above.

Bursa’s famous thermal springs are the ideal getaway if you want a quiet vacation from the hectic city life. Relax and renew in the therapeutic waters, a centuries-old custom. Bursa is an outstanding destination all year round, with its calming thermal baths, rich historical past, as well as the Uludağ ski resort, one of the most popular destinations for skiing in Turkey.

Konya – A City of Whirling Dervishes

Located just a three-hour drive south of Ankara, Konya is a city brimming with history, culture, and mysticism. Known for its beautiful museums, quiet parks, and magnificent palaces, Konya provides a special experience for visitors. Some of the notable sites are the Mevlana Museum, Kılıçarslan Palace, and Alaeddin Hill, where guests may explore the rich past of the city.

Konya, the origin of Sufism, is especially valuable for those wanting to study the mystical aspect of Islam. Here is where you may see the captivating Whirling Dervishes in their spiritual dance, a performance that will remain with you long after you go.

If you’re exploring this city of mysticism, be sure to try Etli Ekmek, a local delicacy that will delight your taste buds with its wonderful flavours.

Safranbolu – A UNESCO Heritage Town

We’ll conclude our list with a legendary UNESCO World Heritage site. The destination is a town in the Karabük Province, in the Black Sea coast region of Turkey. This city’s past is all about trading. After the 11th century, it became one of Turkey’s main trading locations, and these days, saffron is one of the key reasons for its prosperity.

Some of the places to visit here are:

• Hıdırlık Tepesi
• Old Safranbolu Bazaar
• Tokatlı Canyon
• Crystal Glass Terrace

If you’re interested in Ottoman conquests, this is one of the best cities to stay in Turkey. Many consider Safranbolu one of the few places that preserved its historical look and didn’t change its architecture throughout the years.

Turkey’s World Wonder Cities You Shouldn’t Miss

If history is your niche and you want to look at ancient ruins and wonders of the world, there are three places that take the top spots:

Ephesus

Let’s start with Ephesus. The reason why this place is among the best cities in Turkey to visit is the Temple of Artemis. Although its remains are not that big, this temple carries heavy historical significance. It was built about 550 BCE, and it represents one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Around 262 BCE, invading Goths destroyed it, leading to its downfall, and it never recovered.

Miletus

Miletus was one of the most important cities of the ancient era. During that time, history says that it was one of the richest and most well-designed cities in the region. These days, Miletus is known for its vibrant culture. If you’re interested in exploring architectural heritage, Miletus is undoubtedly one of the best cities to stay in Turkey.

Halicarnassus (Bodrum)

Finally, Bodrum is home to the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, which is also one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Since its climate is relatively warm, you don’t need to plan your trip to its historical or archaeological sites during spring or summer. It’s also one of the best cities to visit in Turkey in December, October, and November.