7 Best Places to See in Turkey

Turkiye or Turkey

(In 2021, Turkey applied for a name change via the UN to change their country name from Turkey to Turkiye).

• Americans can get a visa on arrival but check prior to going because requirements can be fluid
• Travel insurance was required last I checked offical websites
• Double check that you have a minimum of 6 months left on your passport from the time you leave the visiting country
• These rules can change often so check frequently

Located in Western Asia (known as the Middle East in the western world) and with a population of approximately 88 million people, Turkiye/Turkey is a country rich in history that includes the Greeks, Romans, Byzantine era, Ottoman Empire, and more.

Istanbul

Istanbul is the second largest city in Turkey. It’s divided in to the Asian and European side. You’ll get to take in the striking skyline to see how each empire tried to outbuild the last. Walk along or take a ferry along the Bospherous Strait. Imagine yourself in the Ottoman era, stroll along the streets to take in the nightlife. Here are just a few sights to take not to miss:

• Blue Mosque
• Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
• Grand Covered Bazaar
• Topkapi Palace
• cable car
• Bospherous Strait Cruise

Pammukale

What an amazing site! I have to admit this was one of my favorite places Turkey. The white colored calcium covers the mountains and hillside. You can dip your toes or enjoy into the mieral rich waters. The gleaming white terraces provide incredible views. There are ruins of the ampitheater, a thermal dipping pool you pay a fee for, picnic tables to have a snack. At dusk, many people hiked around up the mountain to watch the sunset.
You can easily spend 4 hours here.

Kas

This is where you can take in the Mediterranean Sea. Many options to take a boat ride where lunch & beverages are provided. Most of the boat stop somewhere so that you can jump in and swim. Fyi: Some beaches are more rocky than sandy.

Canakkale

This university town where 30% of the population are students. There is a young energy in the air. Prices tend to be more affordable. Canakkale is a city in the Southern Maramara region of Turkey. During the 18th century, the city was known for it’s pottery. In Turkish, canak is “pot” and kale is “fortress”. Don’t miss the Troy museum and a replica of the Trojan horse.

Fethiye

Feithiye is a city that has a great combination of being known as the Turkish Riviera and a mid size city. You get to experience a city that’s not too touristy and see how everyday life is. You can take a local bus not too far and be in a very English-ized area if you wish. There will be more restaurants catering towards English speaking travelers.

Selcuk

Selcuk was once the capital of Roman Asia Minor. This is the city where you will find one of the best preserved Greco-Roman classical cities in the world. The ancient city of Ephesus was a vibrant city of 250,000 people that had running water, medical institutes, a library, Roman baths, theaters, etc. It’s the Library of Celcius that is the most well known and restored with the columns and statues that are striking!

Cappadocia

For many, Cappadocia is often the highlight of the their visit to Turkey. And with good reason!! This is a outer worldly site where you get to see mountains that resemble something out of Star Wars. The hot air balloon rides at sunrise are another experience you can’t miss. Also, the town of Ugur has cave hotels that are truly unique. We stayed in a family run hotel that took 10 years to renovate. The terrace had the most spectacular views!

Key Words/Phrases in Turkish

Hello Merhaba
Please Luften
Thank you Tesekkurler
You’re welcome Bir sey degil
Good evening lyi aksamlar
Goodnight lyi geceler

How much Ne kadar?
Where is? Nerede?
I’d like severim/isteerim

Meze are all the small dishes that accompany meals. These are similar to tapas. It usually consists of an assortment of fresh vegetables such as garnishes, vegetables, olives, dips, yogurt, etc.

Last Random Thoughts:

– Get use to hearing morning pray calls throughout cities in Turkey
– Turkey has very solid infrastructure. Well paved highways and modern trains.
◦ Istanbul airport has multiple security checks. Don’t be surprised to open your bags many times.
◦ Turkish tea seems to be common drink rather than coffee as far as I can tell.
◦ Dress modestly when entering mosques. Ladies bring a scarf to cover your head. Men should have their knees covered.
• The Euro can be used in Turkey