Turkey is a lesser-known tourist destination that’s filled with so many things to experience. If you’re still thinking about where you want to go for a long vacation, wonder no more! Here are ten reasons why you should visit Turkey.
1. For the food, tea, and coffee
There are a lot of unique street foods to munch on in Turkey. Try some kumpir or baked potato with a variety of toppings. There’s also kofte or meatballs whose taste depends on the region you’re in. But if you’re really hungry, grab some kebab and indulge.
Turkish coffee and tea are also known for being especially yummy. Turkish tea or çay and Turkish coffee or Türk kahvesi are known for their robust flavors. Enjoy a cup with baklava – a Turkish pastry filled with nuts and covered with sweet honey.But if your sweet tooth wants more, try some Maraş dondurması or dondurma. This delicacy is the world-famous ice cream that’s known for its thick and sticky texture.
2. To experience Cappadocia
Cappadocia is an entire region in Turkey with multiple tourist destinations. There are a lot of historical mansions and palaces to visit. One of the interesting things to see are the many chapels and churches of the Göreme district that were carved from stone.
For a unique experience, book a room in one of Cappadocia’s cave hotels. These rooms aren’t just holes in the side of a cliff. The entirety of these hotel structures was carved out of the rocks in the natural landscape.
Riding hot-air balloons is also a popular attraction in Cappadocia. It’s common to see hot-air balloons in the sky during your stay.
3. To go paragliding in Ölüdeniz
Aside from the beaches, this place is also known as a site for paragliding. It’s one of the best places to do so as it offers gorgeous views. Plus, the stable weather conditions and the height of the nearby Mount Babadağ make paragliding much easier.
If you’re not too fond of heights, you can also opt to go snorkeling or scuba diving.
4. To enjoy the nightlife in Istanbul
Istanbul is a town brimming with things to do. There are so many museums, palaces, churches, mosques, and other historical structures to visit. Some of these places are even UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
And when the sun sets, Istanbul’s nightlife picks up. Pick where you want to drink from dozens of choices – bars, pubs, dance clubs, jazz clubs, karaoke bars, and more. It just goes to show that Istanbul is a place to enjoy whether it’s night or day.
5. To shop at the Grand Bazaar
This shopping haven can be found in Istanbul, but it required a spot of its own on the list. The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest markets in the entire world. It’s argued to be one of the first shopping malls in the world.
Here, you’ll find all sorts of products – jewelry, cloth, Turkish food, spices, and more. It’s open every day except on Sundays and chosen holidays, from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
6. To see cities filled with dozens of historical landmarks
There are a lot of historically and culturally rich areas in Turkey, but here are three cities where you can go to enjoy your fair share of them: Antalya, Ephesus, and Miletus.
In Antalya, you can head to the Antalya Archeological Museum to see hundreds of ancient artifacts on display. The open-air museum also includes an olden theater in the center of the town.
Ephesus was a prominent city in the Roman Empire. Now, if you pay a visit, you can find an old gladiator theatre, the Celsius Library, Roman terrace houses, and other ancient structures.
Finally, there’s the ancient city of Miletus, located near the village of Balat. It’s filled with abandoned, but strangely well-preserved structures from the past such as the theater as well as the Temple of Apollo.
7. To count the statues around Mount Nemrut
Mount Nemrut is one of the highest mountains in the area. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s known for the large statues that stand around it. These are said to surround a royal tomb that dates back to the first century BC.
It’s an interesting site that is rich with culture and history. Plus, it’s astounding to note that the statues were carved long before we had the modern technology we have now.
8. To bond with nature in their national parks
If you want to take a break from all the hustle and bustle of the city, you’ll find many places to escape to in Turkey. There are national parks filled with lush greenery and fantastic views. There’s Munzur Valley National Park, Köprülü Canyon National Park, and Kaçkar Mountains National Park, to name some.
9. To visit the pools of Pamukkale
Here’s another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The pools of Pamukkale are all formed naturally. It’s made of limestone deposits that are left and built upon from the running water.
There are even certain areas where you can take a dip! Make sure to go there early, because the place is a well-known travel destination.
10. To try skiing
Up in the snowy mountains of Turkey, you can find a lot of ski resorts. Pay a visit to one of them and book a room if you want to try skiing or to experience other winter sports. And the plus side? The prices are way cheaper than in the Swiss Alps.
Ready for your trip to Turkey? Book a flight now! If you’re looking for other choice countries for your dream vacation.