Turkey is one of the most visited countries in the world thanks to its geographical location, deep-rooted history, and natural wonders. Every region is like an open-air museum, with its unique culture, cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. From ancient cities to turquoise bays, from mystical mountains to UNESCO World Heritage sites, there are countless attractions waiting to be discovered.
In this guide, we’ve put together the top 10 must-see destinations in Turkey for both local and international travelers.
1. Cappadocia – Nevşehir
Türkiye’de gezilecek yerler lists usually start with Cappadocia. Located in Nevşehir, this region has been shaped for thousands of years by the combined work of nature and history.
Why visit?
· Unique fairy chimneys landscape
· Hot air balloon rides at sunrise
· Underground cities (Derinkuyu, Kaymaklı)
· Staying in cave hotels
The Göreme Open-Air Museum, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, is full of important historical structures. The early morning hot-air balloon flights are among the most romantic activities you can do in Turkey.
2. Pamukkale Travertines – Denizli
Pamukkale takes its name from its stunning white travertine terraces. These natural pools, covered with calcium carbonate, shine under the sunlight like cotton.
Highlights:
· The ancient city of Hierapolis
· Healing thermal waters
· Travertines listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site
Visitors can walk barefoot on the travertines, enjoy the thermal pools, and explore the ancient theater and necropolis for a cultural experience.
3. Hagia Sophia & Sultanahmet – Istanbul
Istanbul is Turkey’s most visited city, and Sultanahmet Square is the heart of its history.
Hagia Sophia: Built during the Byzantine era as a church, later converted into a mosque during the Ottoman period, Hagia Sophia continues to fascinate visitors with its grandeur.
Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque): Famous for its blue tiles, this 17th-century mosque is one of the most iconic landmarks of Istanbul.
Nearby Attractions:
· Topkapi Palace
· Basilica Cistern
· Gülhane Park
For those seeking history, architecture, and spiritual atmosphere, Sultanahmet is a must-visit area.
4. Ephesus Ancient City – Izmir
Located in the town of Selçuk, İzmir, Ephesus is one of the most important ancient cities in Anatolia.
What to See:
· Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World)
· Celsus Library
· The Great Theatre
· Terrace Houses
Ephesus is an open-air treasure for history lovers, allowing visitors to feel the magnificence of the Roman era.
5. Mount Nemrut – Adıyaman
Mount Nemrut, located at 2,134 meters above sea level in Eastern Anatolia, offers a mystical atmosphere.
Why it Stands Out:
· Giant statues of gods and kings
· Unforgettable sunrise and sunset views
· Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site
These colossal statues from the Kingdom of Commagene attract both archaeology enthusiasts and nature lovers. Especially at sunrise, the light falling on the statues creates breathtaking scenes for photographers.
6. Ölüdeniz & Babadağ – Fethiye
Ölüdeniz, one of the most famous beaches in Turkey, is known for its turquoise sea and stunning lagoon. Babadağ, located right above, is among the world’s top destinations for paragliding.
Highlights:
· Swimming and canoeing in the Ölüdeniz lagoon
· Paragliding from Babadağ
· Boat tours to Butterfly Valley
Perfect for summer holidays, this area appeals to both adventure seekers and relaxation lovers.
7. Safranbolu – Karabük
Safranbolu is famous for its Ottoman-era houses and is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is one of the finest examples of cultural tourism in Turkey.
Places to Visit:
· Traditional Safranbolu Houses
· Cinci Han & Hammam
· Crystal Glass Terrace
· Tokatlı Canyon
Walking through the narrow streets feels like stepping back 300 years into the Ottoman period.
8. Göbeklitepe – Şanlıurfa
Dating back 12,000 years, Göbeklitepe is the oldest known temple in the world. This discovery even changed what we know about human history.
What You’ll See:
· Giant stone pillars
· Circular temple structures
· Ongoing archaeological excavations
Göbeklitepe is not only a Turkish treasure but also one of the most important archaeological sites worldwide.
9. Sumela Monastery – Trabzon
Carved into steep cliffs within the lush green mountains of the Black Sea region, Sumela Monastery captivates visitors with both its architecture and scenery.
Highlights:
· Hiking in Altındere Valley National Park
· Fresco-decorated interior of the monastery
· Unique Black Sea atmosphere
As one of Trabzon’s main attractions, Sumela offers a blend of cultural and natural tourism.
10. Ani Ruins – Kars
Located on the eastern border of Turkey near Armenia, Ani was once a major stop on the Silk Road and is known as the “City of 1001 Churches.”
What to Explore:
· Surp Krikor Church
· Ani Cathedral
· Medieval fortifications and city walls
· Silk Road bridges
Covered with snow in winter, Ani offers visitors a fairy-tale atmosphere. Gezilinki