Turkey has so much to offer travelers – fascinating history, breathtaking landscapes, delicious local food, amazing architecture and a unique blend of cultures. Here are my top 5 highlights that you simply cannot miss when visiting Turkey.
- Related article: Where to get the best photos of the Cappadocia Balloons
- Related article: Where to find Istanbul’s secret rooftop
5. Pamukkale
Pamukkale means “cotton castle” and refers to the white terraces left behind by the flowing water of the hot springs and travertines.
Together with Hierapolis (the remains of the ancient city) it is a World Heritage Site.
The water is a gorgeous shade of light blue and the mountain range in the background make the site absolutely picturesque. I recommend going as late in the day as possible, a lot of the tourist day trip groups will have already left. The sun setting over the white terrain is stunning!
4. Gallipoli
The Gallipoli peninsula is located 4 hours from Istanbul and holds immense significance to Australians, New Zealanders and Turkish persons due to the battles that occurred in the region during World War 1.
The Gallipoli campaign was one of the greatest Ottoman victories and consequently regarded as a defining moment in Turkish history. In Australia and New Zealand, Gallipoli is remembered as a testament to the courage of troops from such young nations.
This was a solemn visit but is something I am incredibly grateful for. The Gallipoli peninsula is beautiful and peaceful, the scattered memorials of Turkish, Australian and New Zealand soldiers remain as a reminder of its violent past.
3. Cappadocia
Cappadocia is probably my favourite place outside of Istanbul . The landscape is unlike anything I had ever seen before. Check out my Cappadocia article for tips on how to get the best photos of the balloons while you are there.
While hot air ballooning in Cappadocia is very expensive (approximately 140 euros), for me it was an absolute must. I had never been hot air ballooning before so this in itself was really exciting. The weather was not ideal but I absolutely adored the experience. In the peak of summer 150 balloons all rise at dawn (there was still around 70 in winter!).
Cappadocia is also home to several underground cities, largely used by early Christians during the Crusades. It was hard to imagine how long it took to construct the tunnels we explored with the simple tools of that time.
2. Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque)
While there are many amazing mosques around the world (notable mention to Mosque of Muhammad Ali, Cairo), the Sultan Ahmed Mosque is particularly stunning due to the intricacy of the handmade ceramic tiles that line its interior.
I spent a good half an hour just sitting on the floor taking it all in and observing those in prayer. If you do not have a scarf to cover your hair they provide them at the tourist entrance. Make sure you are also wearing respectful clothing (shoulders and knees covered).
The outside of the Sultan Ahmed Mosque is just as impressive and is a hallmark of the iconic Istanbul skyline.
1. Istanbul Sunrise/Sunset
Istanbul is the cultural epicenter of Turkey and is without a doubt one of my favourite cities in the world. The sunset and sunrises, in particular, were incredible. Istanbul has an amazing blend of western and eastern culture and is just bustling with things to do and see. So taking a step back to just look over the city from a distance under such magnificent lighting was unforgettable.
Visit my article How To Get To Istanbul’s Secret Rooftop for all the information and directions on how to get to this local gem!
The photo below was taken at sunset at Galata Bridge. This was the last night of my trip before I headed back to Australia (after over a year!) I kid you not, I have not edited the colours of this photo whatsoever, it was absolutely unreal!
If you have any questions or queries feel free to comment below 🙂