From ancient ruins and fairytale landscapes to coastal escapes and cultural gems, these are the top spots to add to your Turkey bucket list.
Turkey isn’t just one kind of beautiful—it’s a whole spectrum.
One moment you’re wandering through Roman ruins, the next you’re sipping tea on a quiet Aegean island, then suddenly you’re soaring in a hot air balloon over otherworldly rock formations. Turkey is a mosaic of cultures, landscapes, and eras—layered, living, and endlessly fascinating.
Whether you’re into history, nature, beaches, or food (seriously, Turkish cuisine deserves a trip on its own), this list covers 15 of the best places in Turkey to visit—from quiet mountain towns to dazzling metropolises, from ancient cities frozen in time to beach towns where turquoise waters lap at your feet. I’ve mixed it up so you get a bit of everything—culture, coast, nature, and charm.
Let’s dive in.
1. Amasya
Best for history lovers and riverfront charm
Tucked into a narrow valley in northern Turkey, Amasya is a small city with a big story—and honestly, it’s one of those places that just stays with you.
Set along the Yeşilırmak River and backed by rugged cliffs, the town looks straight out of a historical drama. Ottoman-era wooden houses with white facades and red roofs line the riverbank like postcards come to life. But what truly makes Amasya unique is the tombs of Pontic kings carved right into the rock faces above the town—dating back over 2,000 years.
This was once the training ground for Ottoman princes, and you can still feel that regal energy in the air. You’ll want to stroll through the old city, especially around the Hazeranlar Mansion, and don’t miss the Amasya Castle hike—it’s steep, but the views over the valley are stunning at sunset.
Bonus tip? Try the Amasya apples—they’re smaller, crisp, and incredibly sweet. Locals are seriously proud of them, and why not?
2. Pamukkale
Best for natural wonders and spa vibes
You’ve probably seen photos of Pamukkale before—it’s that dreamy place with white terraces that look like frozen waterfalls. And yes, it really is that surreal in person.
Pamukkale (which means “cotton castle” in Turkish) is in the Denizli Province, and its snow-white travertine pools are created by mineral-rich thermal waters that have flowed over the cliffs for thousands of years. The calcium deposits have built up into soft, curved steps that you can actually walk barefoot on—and even soak in!
But there’s more here than just the pools. Right above Pamukkale sits the ancient city of Hierapolis, a Greco-Roman spa city that’s incredibly well preserved. You can explore the theatre, necropolis, and even swim in Cleopatra’s Pool, which is filled with ancient columns said to have fallen during an earthquake.
I recommend visiting early or late in the day to avoid crowds (and catch golden hour). And yes—bring your swimsuit and towel. Trust me, you’ll want to wade in.
3. Tenedos (Bozcaada)
Best for a laid-back island escape
If you’re looking for peace, charm, and some of the best wine and seafood in Turkey, Bozcaada is calling your name. This tiny island in the Aegean Sea, also known by its ancient name Tenedos, is just a ferry ride away from the town of Geyikli—and it feels like you’ve stepped into another world.
Bozcaada has Greek-style whitewashed houses, cobbled alleys full of bougainvillea, and a relaxed vibe that’s hard to beat. The pace is slow, the air smells like thyme and salt, and the sound of clinking glasses and waves replaces traffic.
Spend your day biking or walking around the island, sipping Bozcaada wines (try the local red grape variety, Kuntra), and eating grilled octopus or fresh calamari at a harborside meyhane (tavern). Beaches like Akvaryum Koyu and Ayazma Plajı are great for a swim, and if you’re into history, the Bozcaada Castle gives you panoramic views over the Aegean.
In summer, the island gets popular but never loses its soul. If you go outside peak season, you’ll have the narrow lanes and crystal coves almost all to yourself.
4. Göreme (Cappadocia)
Best for surreal landscapes and hot air balloons
There’s nowhere else on Earth quite like Göreme. Set in the heart of Cappadocia, in central Turkey, this small village looks like it was carved by magic—though really, it’s nature and volcanic activity that shaped this otherworldly terrain over millions of years.
You’ll find fairy chimneys, soft-rock caves, and towering rock formations scattered across valleys like something from another planet. Many homes, hotels, and even churches are carved directly into the rock, and you can actually sleep in a cave hotel here—one of the coolest travel experiences I’ve had.
And then there’s the hot air balloons. Every morning (weather permitting), hundreds of balloons float silently across the sky, painting it with color as the sun rises. Watching them from a rooftop is magical, but floating up there yourself? Totally unforgettable.
Spend a few days here if you can. Explore the Goreme Open Air Museum, hike the Rose and Love Valleys, and venture to underground cities like Derinkuyu or Kaymakli. And don’t skip a traditional testi kebab (pottery kebab) that’s cooked in a sealed clay pot and cracked open at your table.
5. Istanbul
Best for culture, contrast, and city lovers
Istanbul isn’t just a city—it’s an experience. A buzzing, layered, and utterly captivating metropolis that straddles two continents and thousands of years of history. One foot in Europe, the other in Asia, with the Bosphorus Strait running through it like a pulse.
It’s impossible to sum Istanbul up in a few lines, but here’s the deal: whether you’re wandering through the ancient halls of Hagia Sophia, bargaining in the maze-like Grand Bazaar, or sipping tea by the Bosphorus with seagulls soaring overhead, this city wraps around you fast.
You’ll want to visit the iconic landmarks—Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and definitely the Spice Bazaar (just follow your nose). But don’t skip the neighborhoods either. Head to Karaköy for hip cafes and art galleries, Balat for colorful houses and vintage charm, and Kadıköy on the Asian side for local markets and nightlife.
One of my favorite Istanbul moments? Taking the ferry at sunset—the view of the skyline silhouetted against the golden sky is pure magic.
6. Ephesus
Best for ancient history and archaeology fans
If you’ve ever wanted to walk through a real-life ancient city, Ephesus delivers. This UNESCO World Heritage site on Turkey’s western coast (near Selçuk, about an hour from Izmir) is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world—and trust me, it’s jaw-dropping.
You’ll walk on marble streets that Julius Caesar once did, stand in the shadow of the Library of Celsus (still beautifully intact), and sit in a massive amphitheater that once held 25,000 spectators. Ephesus was a major port and cultural hub during the Roman Empire, and it still feels grand in scale.
Don’t miss the Terrace Houses—these were the luxury homes of the ancient elite, complete with intricate mosaics and frescoes that give you a glimpse into life 2,000 years ago. And just outside the main site is the Temple of Artemis, one of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World (though only a column or two remain now).
Go early to beat the heat and crowds, wear sturdy shoes (those stones get slippery!), and bring water. And if you’ve got time, combine it with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary nearby, believed by many to be her final home.
7. Kaş
Best for scuba diving, boutique charm, and laid-back vibes
Kaş (pronounced “Kash”) is one of those coastal towns that manages to stay cool without trying too hard. Tucked between the Taurus Mountains and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean in southwestern Turkey, this little town is a dream for travelers who want a mix of adventure and chill.
Once a sleepy fishing village, Kaş is now a top diving destination with over 20 dive sites, including sunken ships and even a submerged WWII plane. But you don’t need to scuba to love it here. The town itself is full of bougainvillea-draped alleys, boutique hotels, cozy cafes, and little artisan shops that are perfect for wandering.
Don’t miss a boat trip to Kekova, where you can kayak or cruise over the sunken ruins of an ancient Lycian city, and explore Simena Castle in the village of Kaleköy—only accessible by boat. The views from the top are unreal.
And for food? Go for a meze spread at one of the harbor restaurants. I’m still dreaming about the grilled halloumi and octopus salad.
8. Hierapolis
Best for ancient spa city lovers and hot spring seekers
Right above Pamukkale’s famous white terraces lies Hierapolis, an ancient Roman spa city that feels like a real-life time machine. Most people come for Pamukkale’s thermal pools (and fair enough—they’re amazing), but don’t sleep on what’s sitting right above them.
Founded in the 2nd century BC, Hierapolis was built around the area’s natural hot springs, and it became a luxurious retreat for the Roman elite. The ruins are spread out across a plateau and include a stunning amphitheater with a backdrop of mountains, a vast necropolis (city of the dead), Roman baths, temples, and colonnaded streets.
One of the coolest features is Cleopatra’s Pool, also known as the Antique Pool. You can actually swim here among submerged marble columns—it’s said Cleopatra herself once bathed in these waters. Whether that’s true or not, the mineral-rich, warm water is a treat.
Make sure to wear good shoes and set aside at least a couple of hours to explore Hierapolis properly. It’s way more than a side note to Pamukkale—it’s an archaeological wonder in its own right.
9. Mardin
Best for architecture, culture, and ancient city lovers
If you want to feel like you’ve traveled not just to another place, but to another era, head southeast to Mardin. Built on a rocky hillside overlooking the vast Mesopotamian plains, this city is like a living museum—a golden maze of stone houses, domes, and minarets.
Mardin’s architecture is its standout feature. The old city is full of honey-colored sandstone buildings, many of them with intricately carved facades. It’s one of the few places in Turkey where you’ll see Syriac Orthodox churches next to mosques and old madrasas, reflecting a deep, multi-faith history that stretches back over 4,000 years.
Wander through the narrow alleyways, visit the Deyrulzafaran Monastery, and don’t miss the Zinciriye Medrese—its terrace gives you sweeping views over the plains toward Syria. There’s something deeply peaceful about watching the sun set from here, turning the city gold.
And the food? Spicy kebabs, ırok (meat-filled bulgur dumplings), and süryani wine from local vineyards. This isn’t your typical Turkish fare—it’s spiced and influenced by Assyrian, Arab, and Kurdish culinary traditions.
10. Göcek
Best for sailing, secluded bays, and luxury escapes
Nestled on the Turquoise Coast, between Fethiye and Dalaman, Göcek is one of Turkey’s best-kept secrets—though yachties have known about it for years. With six marinas, a protected bay, and dozens of tiny, uninhabited islands nearby, Göcek is where you go when you want sea, serenity, and a touch of class.
What sets Göcek apart isn’t just its beauty—it’s the vibe. It’s relaxed, upscale, and understated. You won’t find wild party beaches here. Instead, boutique yachts bobbing on clear blue water, chilled-out seafood lunches by the marina, and quiet coves you can have all to yourself.
Charter a gulet (traditional wooden boat) for the day and explore the 12 Islands of Göcek—each with its own little beach or ruins. Cleopatra’s Bath, a half-sunken ancient hammam said to have been built for the queen herself, is one of the most iconic stops.
If you’re flying into Dalaman Airport, Göcek is just 20 minutes away—making it a perfect first or last stop on a coastal Turkey adventure.
11. Safranbolu
Best for Ottoman charm and UNESCO heritage
Walking through Safranbolu feels like stepping into a perfectly preserved Ottoman film set. Located in Turkey’s Black Sea region, about 2.5 hours from Ankara, this UNESCO World Heritage town is famous for its half-timbered mansions, cobbled lanes, and sweet scent of saffron in the air (yes, it’s in the name—safran means saffron in Turkish).
The town thrived as a key stop along the Silk Road, and its 17th-century architecture reflects its golden age. Stay in a restored konak (Ottoman mansion) to get the full experience—many have creaky wooden floors, carved ceilings, and gorgeous inner courtyards.
Wander the Çarşı district, explore the Cinci Han and Hamam, and sip saffron tea at a traditional café. You’ll also find great handicrafts here—copperware, leather, and woodwork are still made using traditional methods.
If you’re a lover of history, design, or just incredibly photogenic places, Safranbolu is a must-visit. And yes, don’t leave without trying lokum (Turkish delight) flavored with—you guessed it—saffron.
12. Side
Best for ruins-meet-beach holiday vibes
Side (pronounced “See-day”) is a rare mix—it’s a beach resort with Roman ruins literally sprinkled through town. Located on Turkey’s southern Mediterranean coast, about an hour east of Antalya, Side lets you bounce between ancient history and beach lounging in a single afternoon.
At the heart of the old town is the stunning Temple of Apollo, perched dramatically by the sea. Come at sunset—the golden columns against the pink sky are unforgettable. You’ll also find a massive Roman theater, ancient city walls, and a museum housed inside a former Roman bath.
But Side isn’t just about ruins. The town has gorgeous sandy beaches (East Beach for the chill vibe, West Beach for families and activities), a buzzing waterfront, and loads of restaurants serving freshly grilled fish, mezes, and raki.
If you want a place where you can swim in the sea, explore ancient ruins, and enjoy a cocktail with a view—all in one day, Side has it all. And for families or first-timers to Turkey, it’s one of the easiest places to feel relaxed while still soaking up culture.
13. Uzungöl
Best for mountain views and alpine vibes
Deep in the Pontic Mountains of Turkey’s Black Sea region, Uzungöl is where you go when you want to hit pause on the world. This picturesque village, whose name literally means “long lake,” sits in a lush, foggy valley surrounded by forested peaks—and it looks like something you’d find in the Swiss Alps.
The lake, framed by wooden chalets and minarets, is the heart of it all. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and utterly serene, especially early in the morning when the mist hovers low over the water. You’ll want to walk the trails around the lake, try fresh trout at a local restaurant, and maybe sip on some Turkish black tea while soaking in the view.
It’s cooler here year-round, which makes Uzungöl perfect for escaping the summer heat. If you’re road-tripping, it’s about 90 minutes from Trabzon, and worth the scenic drive.
Do keep in mind that it gets busy in peak summer, especially with local tourists. For a quieter experience, go in late spring or early autumn. And pack a sweater—even in July, nights can get chilly.
14. Şanlıurfa
Best for spiritual seekers and ancient origins
If Istanbul is the cultural capital and Cappadocia is the geological wonder, Şanlıurfa is the soul of Turkey’s southeast. Known as the City of Prophets, this ancient city is steeped in spiritual and historical weight—this is believed to be the birthplace of Abraham (Ibrahim), and people have been living here for tens of thousands of years.
One of the most mind-blowing sites near Şanlıurfa is Göbekli Tepe, just a 25-minute drive away. This Neolithic site is over 11,000 years old, predating Stonehenge and the pyramids, and it’s changing everything we thought we knew about early human civilization.
Back in town, don’t miss Balıklıgöl (the Pool of Sacred Fish), where Abraham is said to have been thrown into the fire. The lake, mosque, and surrounding gardens are full of pilgrims, families, and soft, spiritual energy. Grab a bite at a traditional Urfa sofrası, where dishes like çiğ köfte (spiced raw bulgur) and Urfa kebab will blow your taste buds away.
Şanlıurfa is hotter, spicier, and more intense than other parts of Turkey—but it’s also one of the most authentic and eye-opening.
15. Ölüdeniz
Best for turquoise waters and epic paragliding
Ölüdeniz is the kind of beach that shows up on screensavers and travel posters for good reason. Set on Turkey’s southwest coast near Fethiye, this town is home to one of the most stunning stretches of coast in the country—maybe even the world.
The main draw is the Blue Lagoon, a calm, crystal-clear bay separated from the open sea by a narrow sandbar. The colors are unreal—electric turquoise meeting emerald green—and the water is so still it’s like swimming in glass. It’s perfect for families, casual swimmers, and anyone just looking to float and relax.
But if you’re up for a thrill, paragliding from Babadağ Mountain is a bucket-list experience. You take off at over 1,900 meters above sea level, and as you glide down toward the lagoon, you get jaw-dropping aerial views of the coastline and mountains.
There are also boat trips to hidden beaches like Butterfly Valley, loads of water sports, and a chill nightlife scene. It’s the kind of place where one beach day turns into three—and you still don’t want to leave.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it—15 of the best places to visit in Turkey, each one offering something totally different. From ancient cities and surreal landscapes to mountain lakes, island escapes, and coastal bliss, Turkey isn’t just a country—it’s a continent’s worth of experiences in one place.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or your fifth, I hope this list gives you fresh ideas and new corners to explore. And trust me—once Turkey gets under your skin, you’ll keep coming back.