Türkiye, a great place nestled between Europe and Asia, is the perfect next holiday destination. Our whole team came together to explore and cover all bases, ensuring you get the most comprehensive reasons to visit.
Boasting a rich history, it’s a land where cultural fusions create a unique offering of experiences. From the hot summers along both the Mediterranean and the Aegean Seas to the diverse winter weather across its landscapes, Turkey offers the best for every traveler. Our team’s diverse insights reflect this variety.
Explore the natural wonders of snow-white Pamukkale, wander through the underground cities in Cappadocia, or lose yourself in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar. Each of these recommendations comes from our collective travels.
Whether you’re lounging on its sunny beaches, delving into the local culture, or seeking thrills, Türkiye’s appeal is as vast as its history. We’ve delved into every aspect to bring you a guide that resonates with all types of travelers.
Sit among friendly locals, enjoy Turkish hospitality with a cup of tea, and let the country’s charm envelop you. We’ve all agreed that the warmth and welcoming nature of the Turkish people are unmatched.
With so many compelling reasons, your decision for a holiday in this Euro-Asian gem should be clear. Our team’s extensive exploration of Türkiye has led us to conclude that it should be at the top of your list.
Read on to discover the top reasons why, as we unfold the treasures of Türkiye together.
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1. Turkey is an excellent value for money
Most likely, one of the most critical factors in deciding whether to come to Turkey is the prices.
Luckily, Turkey is an affordable country to travel in, even for budget travelers. I am going to list prices in USD instead of Turkish lira; given the massive fluctuations, the rate would be outdated by the time you read this.
Those on the lowest budget should plan to spend 35 USD to 50 USD daily. This will get you a good night’s sleep at a hostel, street food, meals, and some activities.
The cheapest dorm I’ve found was only 8 USD, and I’ve paid an average of 35 USD for a room in a nice hotel! Prices in touristy areas of the country, such as the Turkish Riviera, go up, but remain affordable.
If you’re wondering ‘how much money should I take to Turkey’, here is the breakdown of prices:
Cost Of Food In Turkey
The costs of food will depend heavily on what you choose to eat and where you eat. Turkey has a big street food scene – this will be your cheapest option.
Plenty of stalls on the streets, selling traditional Turkish food tfor1-3 USD, which is shockingly cheap! You will also find mid-range restaurants that cost around 10 USD per meal.
Cost Of Attractions In Turkey
Attraction costs include entrance fees and tour costs. The Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar are free entrances, while a day trip from Antalya to Side and its ancient sites costs only 20 USD. Entry to museums rarely costs more than 5 USD.
Note: As of January 15th, 2024, Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque has introduced a distinct policy for tourists and worshippers. If you’re visiting for cultural exploration, there’s now a 25 euro entry fee. This ticket grants you access to the gallery floor, where you can admire the sanctuary’s stunning Ottoman and Byzantine features, including the historic mosaics.
Cost of Public Transport in Turkey
Buses in Turkey are cheap and easy to navigate, so it’s an excellent option for those on a budget. A single ticket costs 0.50 USD, or you can purchase ten rides for just 3 USD.
2. For Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar
Without a doubt, the biggest reason to visit Istanbul must be the Grand Bazaar. It is the largest covered market in the world, with a history dating back to the Ottoman Empire in 1455, making it one of the oldest markets in the world.
A maze of thousands of narrow alleyways lined with shops, in which you will find everything you would ever need, from silk textiles, handwoven carpets and rugs, gemstone jewelry, Turkish lanterns, to beautifully hand-painted ceramics and tiles (and they’re all of excellent quality!).
You will also find towers of aromatic spices and herbs, an array of traditional Turkish delights, and other mouth-watering sweets and candies.
This is one of the best places in Turkey to purchase your souvenirs.
We all recommend you allocate a good few hours to explore all the tiniest nooks and crannies of the Bazaar. For an even better experience, take a break from walking in one of the many cafeterias for a cup of Turkish tea while the market bustles away in the background.
3. For The Hot Air Balloon Ride In Cappadocia
A hot air balloon flight is always a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it’s even more unique and wondrous when it’s over the world-famous Cappadocia region. This experience should be one of the reasons to visit Turkey, as it really is an unforgettable activity.
Cappadocia, located in central Turkey, is famous for its unique geological formations, hidden caves, and its long history. Stretching for thousands of kilometers, the best way to explore it is, of course, up in the air inside a hot air balloon!
What makes this ride even more remarkable is that it takes place at sunrise.
If you do not feel like taking the ride, you can watch this unforgettable spectacle of hundreds of colorful hot air balloons floating in the air, backdropped by early morning hues, from almost anywhere in Göreme.
4. Turkey’s Ancient Archaeological Sites Are Majestic
Turkey’s history dates back 50,000 years. It is no surprise, then, that it is full of ancient historical sites belonging to some of the world’s earliest civilizations that resided in modern-day Turkey.
Ephesus, an ancient city believed to have been built before 138 A.D., is Turkey’s most famous archaeological site that must be added to your itinerary.
Apart from the ancient city of Ephesus, Troy is another ancient city known for the Greek myth of the Trojan War. A humongous constructed horse is found at the entrance of the leading site, making it a very special place to visit!
My personal favorite was the Termessos Theater, sitting 1,050 meters above sea level in the mountains of Antalya. To reach it, you will need to hike for an hour, passing through the remains of the ancient city and gorgeous mountain views.
5. To Explore Istanbul: Most Popular Tourist Destination In Turkey
Istanbul truly is one of the most unique places in the world. It is one of the few places in the world that reside on two continents.
With one foot in Europe and the other in Asia, you can visit both continents in one day by crossing the modern Bosphorus Bridge in the heart of Istanbul. Make sure to wander further on both sides, as each has its distinct feel and something interesting to explore.
Apart from that, Istanbul is home to the magnificent Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, two of the country’s most essential and beautiful mosques.
Without a visit to those, your trip to Turkey would not be complete.
It is also where the Grand Bazaar and the Topkapi Palace – where the Ottoman sultans lived for hundreds of years. Beyond that, there are plenty of neighborhoods in Istanbul to explore. Make sure to visit Taksim Square, take a ride on the famous red trams along Istiklal Street, and do not skip the colour-punched Balat.
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6. Have The Perfect Turkish Vacation In The Turkish Riviera
Another irresistible reason to visit Turkey is to be found on its southern turquoise coast. Encompassing mesmerizing beaches, charming towns, and ancient archaeological sites, the Turkish Riviera is adored by Europeans and a popular choice for family holidays, couples’ getaways, or solo ventures.
Antalya, an adorable Turkish town with an old harbor and quaint center, is one of the most beautiful towns along the Turkish coast. These stunning beaches are nestled among steep mountains, and the nearby town of Side is fascinating, with its ancient ruins set right on the bony, sandy beaches and azure waters, iconic of the Turkish Riviera.
Izmir, for many, is the best holiday destination in Turkey (SJ and her family still rave about their trip there), with its lively urban center and great nightlife. Those two destinations are well-known gems that attract thousands of tourists every month.
If you want to escape the crowds and spend your Turkish vacation in a quiet place, my personal recommendation is Faralya. A tranquil town tucked away in Butterfly Valley, it offers quiet beach escapes, mountain adventures, and spa and yoga retreats.
7. To Be Amazed At The Otherworldly Pamukkale Hot Springs
Inland, the towering, snow-white, natural pools, filled to the brim with turquoise water, create out-of-this-world landscapes. Pamukkale translates to ‘cotton castle,’ and this is precisely what this scenery reminded me of when I finally set my eyes on it in real life.
Formed by a single calcium bicarbonate spring that cascaded over a cliff for thousands of years, creating countless separate pools at the bottom, today Pamukkale is a hot spring believed to have healing properties.
There are many tales about this spectacular location. Locals believe that a bath in one of the pools cures illnesses, and legends say that Cleopatra herself would bathe in the pools of Pamukkale.
This is a very magical and unique location to visit in Turkey that attracts many visitors every day. Be prepared for some crowds forming by the pools – unless you visit in winter, as the Begonja family did.
You are free to wander through other pools for a more intimate, private experience. This site is particularly mesmerizing during sunsets!
8. De-Stress In A Turkish Hammam
There are plenty of opportunities to relax in Turkey. A Hammam, also known as a Turkish Bath, is a hot-steam bath that feels like a spa self-care experience.
The Turkish Bath is performed in a gorgeous, intimate space, often edged with marble tiles and minimalist décor that create a calming atmosphere.
Turkish Hammam was introduced during Ottoman rule, and today, it is an integral part of the local culture. It is believed to cleanse the body and the mind. For us Turks, it is more of a ritual than a bath.
The whole Turkish Hammam experience lasts for about 45 minutes and includes being washed, scrubbed, and massaged by an experienced attendant while being naked. Do not worry; there are separatewomen’sn andmen’sn sections, and someone of the same sex will attendto you.
A Turkish Hammam is a profoundly relaxing and rejuvenating experience that is typical of the country and must be part of your Turkish vacation.
9. The Good Things About Turkey: Turkish Cuisine
While the world-famous kebab is a good start, Turkish cuisine is much more than that. The centerpiece of any Turkish meal is pilaf (or, at least that is what my mom says) – slightly toasted rice enriched with broth and spices and often accompanied by almonds or plump raisins. This side dish makes any ordinary dish extraordinary.
And then there are sweets – Turkey excels in desserts and other sweet delights. Baklava is a pastry filled with pistachios and sugary syrup. It is not only one of the best-known sweets in Turkey but also well-known worldwide.
You will find a wide array of baklava available almost everywhere in Istanbul. Even more famous is Turkish delight or lokum – a chewy, soft cube sprinkled with powdered sugar. It makes a perfect addition to Turkish coffee or tea.
Balik Ekmek is a street-food fish sandwich served with vegetables inside a fresh Turkish bun. Head to Istanbul’s Eminönü Square to try the best version of this dish.
Vegetarians will find it easy to find meat-free options, as many dishes feature vegetables or legumes such as eggplant, zucchini, chickpeas, lentils, tomatoes, beans, and more!
For example, Kizartma is a dish of spicy fried potatoes and zucchini or eggplant, served with a rich tomato sauceseasoned wseasoned ith garlic, parsley, and olive oil. Kumpir is a delicious baked potato with fillings of your choice – primarily fresh vegetables and sauces!
Oh, and no day of sightseeing in Turkey can start without a traditional Turkish breakfast, served with a side of Turkish coffee, of course.
10. To Experience The Famous Turkish Ice Cream Trick!
Turkish ice cream is like no other ice cream you’ve tried before. It’s chewy, creamy, stretchy, and doesn’t melt. Also known as ‘dondurma,’ it is made from goat milk, cream, wild orchids, and mastic resin, which give it its elasticity, chewiness, and gummy texture.
This is also what makes it ideal for pranking customers – poor Vladimir and Roko got duped and had no idea what was going on!
The Turkish ice cream trick is a well-known prank that will make you giggle, no matter your age. So, when you make an order for a delicious scoop of Turkish ice cream, be prepared for a series of tricks and pranks before you get to eat your ice cream!
11. You Must Experience The Warm Turkish Hospitality
As you’ve probably already gathered from reading my article, Turkey has stunning landscapes and delicious cuisine. But what makes this place extra special is the local people and their generosity.
Wherever you go, you will come across good-hearted Turks who want to ensure you, as a tourist in their country, have a beautiful experience visiting Turkey. They will smile, wave, and ask you how your day is while preparing you a cup of warm Turkish tea and inviting you to share it with them.
In Turkey, guests are treated with warmth and generosity, and sharing meals is an important social custom, so if you wander out of the over-tourist areas, local people might even invite you to their house to share a meal with their family. An offer that is hard to refuse, considering you will be in for a tasty dinner and an excellent local experience!
Mate told us that he found Turkish people to be incredibly friendly, warm, and caring. Unlike other countries, they rarely tried to overcharge or scam him. That said, there are some scams in Turkey to avoid; read those here, or you can also read about how to prevent Istanbul scams here.
12. Turkey’s History Is Captivating!
Turkey’s history stretches back thousands of years. In fact, the Karain cave, located near Antalya, hides evidence of habitation dating back 50,000 years! Scattered across this vast country are more reminders of the various civilizations that resided in Turkey throughout those years.
Sitting on two continents, Turkey was influenced by the Greeks, Arabs, Seljuks, and Ottomans before becoming the Republic of Turkey under Atatürk in 1923.
Today, the reminders can be seen in ancient ruins and learned about in museums or during educational tours, available at most tourist spots in the country.
During your trip to Turkey, make sure to dive deep into its complex and intriguing history.
13. It Is An Excellent Destination For Family Turkish Vacations
Although this might not be the first destination to come to your mind if you’re planning vacations with your kids, Turkey is actually one of the best places to holiday.
If you’re looking for beach vacations with your little ones, the Mediterranean region is well-developed, modern, and designed with tourism in mind, making it easy, convenient, and safe to get around.
Along its shores, you will find many family-friendly resorts and hotels, and many of them have kids’ entertainment programs. Antalya is an excellent option with its Aqualand Waterpark and the Aquarium. Nearby, Marmaris is a lively resort town with gorgeous beaches. Perfect for families with older children, Marmaris has plenty of karaoke bars and offers fun nights out!
Adventurous families will enjoy a hot-air balloon ride over Cappadocia and overnight stays at one of the many cave hotels in Göreme.
Some of the other best Turkey destinations for families include the history- and culture-packed Istanbul or the nearby 700-year-old Ottoman village of Cumalıkızık, near the colorful Bursa, a short ferry ride from Istanbul.
14. Turkey Is Also An Excellent Destination For Adventure Travel
Turkey is a fantastic choice for your next holiday, no matter who you are.
My country also offers an array of adventurous activities if you’re looking for some adrenaline during your trip to Turkey. While everyone knows about the hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia, there are even more reasons to visit Turkey for adventure travel.
For instance, did you know that Turkey has one of the highest paragliding take-off sites in the world? Babadag Mountain, near Fethiye, offers paragliding off a thrilling 1960 meters above sea level!
Beyond that, you can take a balloon ride over the famous Ephesus site for a very unique perspective of this ancient city. Water lovers will enjoy scuba diving at night in Bodrum, where you can dive into the Graveyard of Ships. Or, the holiday-classic activity, white water rafting, but in the extreme rapids of the Köprülü Canyon near Antalya.
15. Turkey Is Safe To Travel In
With all the bad reputation that this country has (mainly in the past, now!), you might be wondering, ‘Is Turkey safe?. Understandably, safety is a priority during your trip visit to Turkey, especially when traveling solo or with your family.
SJ told me that whenever she visits, she finds the country full of friendly people who are always willing to help, and she feels genuinely safe. She even bragged about walking alone at night without worry.
Tourist destinations such as the Turkish Riviera, Istanbul, and Cappadocia are exceptionally safe. However, standard and everyday precautions should always be taken, just like in any other place in the world.
Many guides say the southeastern part of Turkey is best avoided due to rising violence and crime, but we disagree and will write about that soon. For sure, the Iraqi and Syrian borders must also be avoided; do not be tempted to go even with a local guide.
16. Istanbul Is A Great Weekend City Break
For those who live in Europe or neighboring Asian countries, Istanbul is a fantastic city break for your weekend adventures. The International Airport in Istanbul has fantastic connectgreat the rest of the world, adding to one of the many reasons why you should visit Turkey.
Although this vibrant, culture-rich city has so much to see that you could stay there for months, the highlights can be ticked off during your quick weekend trip to Turkey.
The highlights you could focus on include the largest covered market in the world – the Grand Bazaar, the 6th-century Hagia Sophia mosque, or the Bosphorus Bridge that connects Europe and Asia.
To make things easier for you, you could join an Istanbul Tour and learn all you need to know about Turkey from a knowledgeable local guide. If you have more than two days, you can take a day trip to nearby Bursa or to the unique Polish village of Polonezköy.
17. Turkey Has 82,693 Mosques To Discover
In case you fall in love with the Hagia Sophia or the Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul and want to explore more mosques, there are 82,691 more in the country! But the majority of them – over 3,100 are in Istanbul.
Turkey is famous for its impressive mosques. They are places of worship in Islam, the predominant religion of Turkey. The mosques are breathtaking works of art, with their magnificent towers rising above the stunning domes that cover the prayer hall. Inside, they boast an ample open communal space that, in most cases, is open to all visitors, regardless of religion.
A mosque worth visiting is the Grand Çamlıca Mosque in Istanbul, the largest in the country. The Selimiye Mosque in Edirne is believed to be one of the most beautiful mosques in Turkey.
The Kocatepe Mosque in the capital, Ankara, has towers so large that they can be seen from anywhere in the city. The Mahmud Bey Mosque in Kasaba is uniqusfor beings primarily constructed of wood.
When visiting mosques, remember the proper etiquette. You must wear modest clothing; women should cover their heads (single-use headscarves are often available upon entry); shoes must be removed; and never enter a mosque during prayer times.
18. It Is Still Largely Undiscovered, Making It An Ideal Destination For Off-The-Beaten-Path Travel
Türkiye is a vast country, and only a small part of it is actually visited, making it an incredible destination for those who like to travel to off-the-beaten-path places. Although less convenient than the touristy places, venturing off the beaten track in Kaçkar, Turkey, offers unique experiences and stunning, untouched landscapes.
The Eastern side of Turkey, on the Asian continent, is where you will find the most hidden gems. Also called the Eastern Anatolia Region, it is a wild and rugged region and home to ancient towns and temples, historic caves, and so much more.
This area is a blend of Turkish and Kurdish cultures and is influenced by the nearby Caucasus countries, showcasing a largely unknown, completely different face of Turkey.
If you’re up for a challenging but fascinating trip in Turkey, visit the Kaçkar Mountains for excellent hiking or adventure water sports opportunities. Tucked among the untamed peaks are 1,000-year-old churches and reminders of the region’s time as part of the Kingdom of Georgia.
Just off the shores of the Black Sea in Northern TuKaçkaries, Amasya. A small town with over 7,500 years of history, it boasts impressive Ottoman architecture cut into rugged mountains.
Dogubayazit is a small town set at a high altitude near Mt. Ararat, the snow-capped, double-cone volcano. My Aunt, who lives there, told me it is believed to be the resting place of Noah’s Ark and a haven for mountain climbers and hikers.
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19. Turkey Is The King Of Nuts
Turkey is famous for its variety of nuts. Pistachios are the centerpiece of many Turkish sweets, such as baklava, which commonly uses hazelnuts. Roasted chestnuts are popular street food snacks, walnuts are used in many dishes, and almonds are cultivated in many parts of the country.
Hazelnuts, in particular, are super crucial for Turkish cuisine, culture, and economy. Turkey cultivates and processes most of the world’s hazelnuts. They are exported worldwide for use in chocolate, spreads, and coffee. If you can, try the hazelnut butter or the Turkish version of peanut butter!
The farms can be found scattered along the coast of the Black Sea in northern Turkey, where you will also find tonnes of nuts available to purchase for a low price.
Almond is another nut variety cultivated in Türkiye. They are known for their sweet, mild taste and are often used in baking. In fact, Turkish delight and halva are made out of almonds. This definitely adds to the reasons why foodies should visit Turkey!
20. To Try The Turkish Signature Drink: Raki
Although Turkey is an Islamic country, visiting Turkey doesn’t have to mean no alcohol consumption. Unlike other Muslim countries, Türkiye has a more secular approach to governance where alcohol consumption is legal and often enjoyed in social settings; regardless, many Turks choose to abstain.
The fact that Turks are more open to alcohol than other countries is due to the reforms during Atatürk’s rule that aimed to modernize and secularize the country.
Raki undergoes an enjoyable process during production. It is distilled two to five times from grapes before it gets re-distilled with aniseed, giving it a unique, intense flavor. It often contains 40-50% alcohol, so make sure to take it slow when enjoying raki in Turkey!
Raki holds a cultural significance in the country and is often referred to as the national drink. You will see locals sip on raki to celebrate important life events or to numb the pain. It is usually drunk with a side of chilled water, often sweetened with brown sugar.
21. There Are Millions Of Stray Cats In Turkey, And They Are Honored By The Locals
This one is for animal lovers who want to visit Turkey. During your visit, you will find cats – lots of cats, everywhere. In Istanbul alone, there are thought to be over 125,000 homeless cats roaming the narrow, cobblestone streets or hiding in the nooks of the mosques.
Some cats even climb tree trunks and camouflage between the high branches of trees in the city’s green areas. They have been doing so for millennia.
Turkish cats, unlike other cats, are affectionate and unflinching.
They are also very cheeky and will sneak into your room! This happened to me at my guesthouse in Bursa, where I left the window open for the night and got woken up by not one but three cats who made my room their shelter for the night! (So, if you’re not too fond of cats – make sure to close your windows and doors tightly!)
As it is common in Muslim cultures, cats in Turkey are honored. You will see locals feeding stray cats, nursing them if needed, and giving them love. This is just another reflection of the beautiful Turkish hospitality!
SJ’s son Vladimir took many cat pictures on his trip; here is one of them – cute, right?
As of October 2023, a Cat Museum opened in Istanbul, dedicated to the special bond betweenbetween felines and people in Turkey.
Reasons To Answer The Question “Why Visit Turkey”
There are many reasons why Türkiye is one of the most beautiful countries in the world:
- It has a diverse landscape that includes mountains, forests, rivers, and coastlines
- It has a rich history and culture that is reflected in its architecture, art, and cuisine
- It is home to some of the most hospitable people in the world
A diverse landscape is one of its most defining features. The country has several mountain ranges, including:
- The Taurus Mountains
- The Pontic Mountains
- It also has dense forests, such as the Black Sea and the Kaçkar Mountains
In addition to these natural wonders, Türkiye also boasts several rivers, including:
- The Euphrates and
- Tigris River
- As well as stunning coastlines along the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea
No matter what your interests are, Türkiye has sKaçkarng for you. If you’re looking for an adventure, there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy, such as:
- Hiking
- Camping and
- Rafting
While these are all popular pastimes in the country, if you prefer to stay indoors, Turkish cities offer a wealth of museums, galleries, and historical sites to explore. And, of course, no trip to Türkiye would be complete without sampling the delicious Turkish cuisine.
And the main reason to visit Türkiye is, of course:
It’s people. Finally, Türkiye is home to some of the most hospitable people in the world. The warmth and generosity of the Turkish people often strike visitors to Türkiye. This hospitality extends beyond just tourism – Turks are also known for their charity work and their commitment to helping those in need.
With its delicious food, breathtaking natural beauty, and ancient traditions, Türkiye is the perfect place to tick off your bucket list. From the vibrant Aegean coast to its cultural treasures, there’s every good reason to make this your next unforgettable adventure.