Turkey is a discovery that inspires dreamers as the realm of history, culture and Nature that can be experienced over and over again. Sitting right on the European and Asian continents it has a peculiar mixture of European and Asian cultures. This has placed Turkey in a very unusual strategic position that has indeed turned the country into a cultural and culinary hybrid hub. From exotic crowds and magnificent buildings in Istanbul to sand dunes of the Mediterranean coast with their remains of the classical antiquity, Turkey offers something for everyone. If it is archaeology, food, beach, or history, Turkey is a country the offers so much in terms of tourism and personal growth.
The geographical features are as diverse as in cultural that one finds in Turkey. Today, it has an incredible number of marvelous natural sites, of course, including otherosthetical, otherworldly place of Cappadocia, or smooth sand coastlines of the Aegean and Mediterranean shores. The climber-friendly terrain offers a multitude of experiences for climbers that would include hiking, sailing, ballooning among others. Further, Turkey is blessed with rich and lengthy history, which requires a rather large number of historical sites and fascinating architecture. In the following extensive guide, we will also reveal some of the Turkish destinations, focusing on the peculiarities and reasons for their popularity.
1. Alanya: Sun, Sand and Lively Night Life
Alanya and it is recognized by beautiful sea shore that avows its being in the Mediterranean coast of Turkey and proactive social media presence. It is a famous resort area in which sun and sea lovers can spend their vacations, there are many beaches here for every taste. Among them, Cleopatra Beach, natural white sand, crystal clear seawater is one of them. The beach is also called the Cleopatra beach cause it is believed that the Egyptian queen Cleopatra used to swim in the sea here. It has a Mediterranean climate, meaning it does not snow or get very cold; therefore, you can go swimming at the beach most of the time.
Besides sun, sea and sand, Alanya has a good night life and numerous cultural and historical sites for tourists. The town has fabulous Alanya Castle that was built in 13th century and the there is wonderful view at the coast line. Most of its walls and towers are well preserved and the places gives the tourists an idea on how the place looked like several centuries ago. Alanya also has a very active wharf area with a large number of sea fish restaurants where it is possible to taste execlicable Sea food dishes, kiosks of curio shops and, of course, shop to rent a boat for a ride along the coast. The other fantastic feature if town is the advance nightlife where there are various clubs and bars where one can wine and dine till the dawn.
According to expressed viewpoints Alanya is crucial for the purpose of its clients since it grants the opportunity to have an active recuperation as well as you can diversify it with several days full of different thrills. As for leisure activities Alanya also offers various attractions starting from sunbathing on the beach, visits to the historical places, to dances in the night clubs. The people here are warm and accommodating and this together with the beauty of the town has made istanbul one of the leading tourist destinations in Turkey’s Mediterranean region.
2. Side: The Combination of Historical Relics and Contemporary Facilities
Side is a charming town with a history dating back to antiquity and at the same time equipped with all the facilities of the twenty-first century. Situated between Alanya and Antalya, Side is one of Turkey’s most historically rich cities that can be traced to more than 2000 BC. Temples, theaters and even the large Roman bath complex are part or the fully excavated site that gives the testimony of the past of this town. These monuments afford the present generation with the great opportunity of understanding what the past dwellers of this region were like.
Another attraction is the Temple of Apollo remaining on the small three-state peninsula and including the beautiful view of the sea. It is also possible to admire the columns of the temple, which look especially beautiful in the evening; many lovers of photography and, of course, romantic couples appreciate it. Side’s old theatre can also be visited as well as should be visited because of its architecture and perfect sounding. One of the largest theaters of the rising Utica with a seating capacity of up to fifteen thousand was still in use in the modern age for concerts and cultural activities, and there is nothing like watching a live show in an ancient theater adapted for the present use.
Apart from the historical sights there are a number of favorable conditions in Side now like hotels, restaurants, and shops. Beaches are also helped for for sunbathing, and swimming as the sand is golden and the water is clear in the town of Agios Nikolaos. Standard’s old town is one of the most picturesque and fascinating zones, the area of which impresses with the number of narrow streets, typical houses, and significant markets. Here you can buy any souvenir item, get an extension of the town’s fresh food, and feel the non-spontaneous vibe of the area. Side comfortably intermingle historical epoch and contemporariness for anyone who is eager to plunge into the world of Turkish history.
3. Antalya: The entrance to Turkish Mediterranean coast Initialise
It is officially considered that Antalya is the Turkish Mediterranean coast’s entry point and that is quite accurate. It is one of the most energetic and popular cities of Turkey, which occupies the upper position among the southern sea coast centers from the aspect of tourism. Currently, Antalya is quite famous for the sea coast, the history of the city and the active cultural life. This city has very well managed its development and preserves or reconstructs the historical part of the city.
The center of interest of the city is surely the central Kaleiçi, Antalya’s old town. Kaleiçi is a maze of alleyways which house Ottoman houses, quality accommodation facilities, and beautiful cafés among others. Also, there are historical monuments and, among them, the Hadrian’s Gate, or the Triumphal Arch, was constructed in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian. The old town has a highly laid–back and relaxed atmosphere and the narrow crooked alleys as well as the historic buildings give the town high aesthetic value by which people can walk around.
It has equal miraculous outlook like side of Turkey’s modernization where there are many buildings like five-stars hotels, shopping malls and clubs etc. These include beaches like the Konyaaltı and the Lara beaches for the lover of the Mediterranean sunbath. Tourists who are inclined to history, should visit the Antalya Museum, where a great number of statues, mosaics and ancient pottery’s, that belong to the regional history, are stored. Hence, Antalya serves as a kaleidoscope tourism center suitable for various types of tourists.
4. Kemer: Harmony in a pleasant landscape
Kemer is a beautiful resort town situated near the sea-shore at the feet of Taurus Mountains. Kemer is one of the most famous resorts of Turkey, distinguished by the beautiful landscape and inner peace. The beaches nestling this town are well bordered by those exquisite greenage forests and crystal clear waters ideal for a holiday.Thus, one of the main advantages in choosing a vacation in Kemer is the combination of both natural and sites of historical significance. There are several prehistoric sites nearby and possible to visit the ruins of the ancient city of Phaselis, the Greeks created in the VII century BC. Very beautiful experience the archeological site of Phaselis situated in the middle of the green pine trees and with the amazing sea view. The occasion also offers tourists to wander around the structures of the roads, baths, theaters and how one could visualize the existence in such a developing city.
Kemer has all modern facilities side by side with its natural endowment. The town’s accommodation facilities include several hotels restaurants and shops and therefore can be used as a base while exploring the area. Along the marina there is normally an avenue for walking and watching the yachts, and mountain nearby for mountain climbing and other related activities. Kemer for that matter remains an excellent vacation spot for both the incited explorer and the one who is obsessed with history.
5. Cappadocia:
A landscape that is quite unique in its nature is being described in this particular work of literature.
Cappadocia is one of the beautiful and popular regions of Turkey, which is famous for the beautiful fairy chimneys and other beautiful tors. Fantastic scenery of fairy chimneys, cave residences, even cities prove the fact. Cappadocia has geographical features that include; Volcanic eruptions and erosion led to the formation of the special structures that characterize this region.
Another enjoyable activity that tens of thousands of people go for in Cappadocia is the hot-air balloon that rises at dawn. High above the fairy chimneys and valleys photos and videos can be taken from helicopters, while flying over the area the breathtaking views of the sunrise over the horizon. Over all, this is one of the most enlightening events which may provide rather different view on the natural resources of the region. For those who do not wish to go up the mountains, walking through the valleys and admiring the rock-cut churches / monasteries are just as stimulating.
The most significant one, Göreme, is a town situated in Cappadocia area. The Göreme Open-Air Museum is highly recommended with several hole-in-the-wall churches with frescoes in fairly good condition. There are entirely natural cave like hotels; the rooms in which guests can sleep have been chiseled into the surface of the rock. Whether you are visiting the underground cities, enjoying the rocks and roots of the area through the trekking or just gazing feature Cappadocia is definitely a unique experience that can hardly be found elsewhere in the world.
6. Marmaris: Mission Statement and a Modern Resort Scenic Background
Marmaris is a young climatic resort which is famous for today’s filled with energy and joyful atmosphere and magnificent nature. Marmaris is one of those places situated in a bay with the green hills covered by pines where one can spend time on a beach. The beachfront of the town is pretty long and there are many hotels, restaurants and bars established along it, so it is very comfortable to stay there.
Marmaris also has become well known as the place where you can enjoy water sport. The water that the bay holds is absolutely transparent making it an excellent place for special boating, surfing, and scuba. Oviedo has one of the biggest marinas in Turkey which accommodates all sizes and types of yacht and boats. The tourists can also take a boat ride to appreciate the nearby cove, islands and beaches also for sight seeing.
Marmaris is also culturally vibrant; in the following cultural displays are narrated. The old modes of houses and carving with structured buildings and numbered street signs present the culture of the old-town area. The renovation of Marmaris Castle which was built in the 16th century is another arguing point; it contains a small museum with history of the region. The covered bazaar of the town is a best place to buy souvenirs including the general traditional Turkish products as well the current fashion products. The tourism product offering in Marmaris is another remark able feature; the natural and cultural values as well as liberal options for modern approaches to enjoying holidays.
7. Bodrum: A Classy and Stylish Place to Be
Bodrum is a resort city in Turkey which people predetermine to be one of the trendiest and posh places to visit. Bodrum town is situated on the coast of the Aegean Sea and has splendid hills and marvelous blue sea view. Many houses are painted white, gardens are irrigated and bougainvillea entwine the streets, which lets the town have the Mediterranean atmosphere.Bodrum is also very historic and contains such renowned attractions as the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus which is one of the seven wonders of the Ancient World. Today there are only the arched remnants of the bridge still standing; nevertheless, the place is highly popular among tourists and travelers. A castle in town was constructed by the Knights of St John has been transformed into the Museum of Underwater Archaeology that displays items that have been wrecked from ancient ships.
What is also very much worth seeing is the marina in Bodrum, where shiny yachts are anchored and where a lot of things are always happening. Judging by its parties and discos, which are diverse bars, clubs and spectacular beach parties that go on throughout the night, the town is famous for its night life. In addition, the Archelogical Museum of Bodrum provides a vast venue through paintings, sculptures and photographs of modern Turkey Assosiate and The Tents Theater offers live performances of plays and Ballet that are enacted here through out the year. This creates a rather luxurious ambiance and offers numerous things to do, which is why so many Turks and foreigner visitors choose to come to this town.
8. Istanbul: The interaction of East and West.
Largest city of Turkey and undoubtedly one of the most exciting cities of the world, Istanbul hosts numerous tourists each year. Ankara currently boasts of a population of over 15 million people the city is youthful and progressive that is divided between two continents namely Europe and Asia. This particular location has placed Istanbul among cultural and commercial centers for centuries, and the area’s history is evident in the beautiful buildings and other divisions of the city.
Some of the famous architectural marvels of the world are the Bosphorus Bridge which connects the two sides of Istanbul, the Hagia Sophia, a building that was once a Byzantine cathedral later used as a mosque and now is a museum. Majestic dome and stunning mosaics of Hagia Sophia are the impressive sight representing the historical and architectonic face of the city. Further, one can also visit the Blue Mosque felicitated with six minarets and beautiful ceramics tiling.
The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul is a calculating large and old bazaar that is covered from the top. Having thousands of shops offering jewelries, carpets, spices, ceramics, and lots of other things, it is an ideal place for buyers and provides a wonderful feeling of the city’s vitality. The same goes for food: Istanbul provides a great variety of dishes to fulfil the demanding tastes of the oriental cities’ dwellers. When walking around the old town of Sultanahmet or browsing through the Bazaars, or just having a meal in the terrace of a restaurant , Istanbul provides one with an ever exciting experience.
9. Kusadasi: A Calm Sea Shore Vacation
Kusadasi is one of the largest resort cities positioned on the western coastal region of Turkey, namely on the Aegean Sea. Some of the places of interest located in the town include; • Kühlungschild: which translated from the German language to English means Bird Island. But the beaches of Kusadasi are good among the beaches of Turkey; they have got soft sand, and, weather permitting, clean water for swimming and tanning.
Other attractions, Kusadasi is in proximate distance to several historical attractions. Also within easy driving distance is the magnificent site of Ephesus the best preserved ancient city in the world. Ephesus is very interesting and historically significant city with many sight seeing attraction such as the Temple of Artemis, the Library of Celsus and the Great theater. The House of the Virgin Mary is another religious place close to Ephesus, where according to tradition the Virgin Mary died.
Kusadasi’s old town is picturesque where travel and sightseeing uncover uneven cobblestones, old houses, and stores, along with eating places. The flashy illumination and youth friendly bars, discotheques, and live music joints are some of the unique selling points that make the town a popular energetic, sea side country. No matter whether archeology is on your mind with sites like the ruins of Ephesus, or if you are looking forward to taking a rest on the sandy beach or perhaps delighting in the local meals, you will have a great time in Kusadasi.
Conclusion: An Insight into Turkey’s Diversity
Turkey is geographically and culturally very diverse; one can find virtually anything ranging from mountains to seas, different ethnic groups and much more. Whether you are in Turkey to sight-see in Istanbul or to lie on the beautiful sandy beaches of the Aegean or Mediterranean, Turkey is a country for all. Every city has its own attractions and charms to show, and it becomes a rather challenging decision to make as to where to travel to next.
No matter if you will be strolling through Side getting to know ancient ruins or choosing to fly over the unique surface of Cappadocia or laying on the beach in Alanya, Turkey is designed to give you an extraordinary journey. It has a friendly disposition of people, excellent food, and cultural heritage that creates a lasting impression of the country. When choosing your destinations, thought and look at the various facets of Turkey’s tourism and get ready for the most memorable vacation.