Popular

This article contains the names of the most popular touristic spots in Turkey.

Although Turkey has a lot of wonders worth seeing, most of us don’t have enough time to cover a lot of spots in one trip. So in this article, we will list some of the most popular destinations in Turkey which you should consider visiting first.

1.Hagia Sophia

Haghia Sophia, located on the historical peninsula of Istanbul, is perhaps one of the most popular buildings on Earth. Built as a church (537 A.D), later converted into a mosque (1453), and currently a museum (since 1935), this huge marvellous structure continues to fascinate it visitors.

While you are there, don’t forget to visit the nearby Blue Mosque (also known as Sultanahmet Mosque), one of the most exquisite examples of Ottoman Architecture, which is located right accros Hagia Sophia.

2.Miniaturk

Miniaturk is a park of miniatures located in Istanbul. It contains miniature models of every historical building in Turkey, including mosques, churches, temples, palaces, towers, monasteries, ancient ruins etc. It is like touring all of Turkey on a small scale in one day and makes you realize how many beauties Turkey holds for you to explore.

3. Cappadocia

Cappadocia is a famous central-Anatolian touristic destination primarily noted for its fairy chimneys and the balloon ride you can take over them. It is an old settlement and holds fairy chimneys, houses and churches caved into the rocks etc. for travelers to see.

4.Safranbolu

Safranbolu is a small town located in northern Anatolia. It is famous primarily for its lovely houses built in a very characteristic architecture.

5.Pamukkale

Pamukkale is a natural wonder located to the west of Anatolia. Pamukkale literally means “cooton castle” and you will know why when you see it. The travertines formed by carbonate minerals left by the floating water are all white and form a unique natural shape.

6. Sümela Monastery

Sümela Monastery is a 4th century monastery located to the north of Anatolia. What makes the Sümela Monastery special is that it is situated on a steep cliff at the altitude of around 1200 meters. Today it only serves as a tourist attraction and it has a wonderful view of the forests below.

7. Ephesus

Located to the west of the country, Ephesus is a vast ancient Greek city dating back antiquity. Today the famus library of Celcus, some ancient theatres, temples, roads, public bathrooms etc. are visible and partially restorated. This marvellous spot continues to be the favourite of many travelers visiting Turkey.

8.Ishak Pasha Palace

Ishak Pasha Palace is located at the easternmost point of Turkey. It is an Ottoman-time palace built and inhabited by Ottoman rulers. It is an important example of Ottoman art and art history. Rumor has it that at the time, it was even more luxurious than the palace of the Ottoman sultans in Istanbul.