Places to Visit in Turkey

A 6th-century basilica that later became a mosque and now functions as a mosque with visitor access. Its large dome and mosaics reflect Byzantine and Ottoman layers.

Best forHistory and architecture

Visit early morning to avoid queues; dress modestly and cover your head if you are a woman. Entry is free for worshippers and visitors outside prayer times.

The primary residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years, with courtyards, the Harem and views over the Bosphorus.

Best forOttoman history and palace collections

Buy the Harem ticket as an add-on; allow at least three hours. Closed on Tuesdays.

An early 17th-century mosque known for its hand-painted blue Iznik tiles and six minarets. It remains an active place of worship.

Best forIslamic architecture and photography

Enter through the visitor entrance outside prayer times; women must cover their heads and everyone should wear modest clothing. Free entry.

A UNESCO World Heritage site with rock-cut churches and monasteries dating from the 10th–12th centuries, featuring well-preserved frescoes.

Best forByzantine art and cave architecture

Go early to avoid tour groups; the Dark Church requires an extra ticket. Wear comfortable shoes for uneven paths.

An ancient multi-level underground city that could shelter thousands of people, with tunnels, storage rooms and chapels.

Best forUnique underground history

Not suitable for claustrophobic travellers; some passages are low and narrow. Visit with a guide to understand the layout.

White calcium terraces formed by mineral-rich springs, a UNESCO World Heritage site alongside the ancient city of Hierapolis.

Best forNatural landscapes and photography

Visit early or late in the day; use the upper entrance to walk down. Shoes are not allowed on the terraces to protect the surface.

A Greco-Roman city with a theatre, necropolis and the Cleopatra Antique Pool, located above the travertine terraces.

Best forRoman ruins and hot springs

Combine with Pamukkale on the same ticket; allow two to three hours. The antique pool has a separate entry fee.

One of the best-preserved Roman cities in the eastern Mediterranean, with the Library of Celsus, Curetes Street and the Terrace Houses.

Best forRoman archaeology

Stay in Selçuk rather than doing a rushed day trip from Istanbul. Enter early; the Terrace Houses need an additional ticket.

A reconstructed facade of a Roman library built in 114 AD, one of the most photographed structures in Ephesus.

Best forIconic ancient architecture

Visit before 10 am for fewer crowds and better light. The facade is at the end of Curetes Street.

A historic quarter with narrow streets, Ottoman houses, a Roman harbour and Hadrian's Gate.

Best forOld-town atmosphere and dining

Wander on foot in the late afternoon; many boutique hotels are inside Kaleiçi. The harbour is good for a sunset walk.

A series of waterfalls on the Düden River, with the lower falls dropping directly into the Mediterranean.

Best forNature and family outings

The lower falls are best seen from a boat; the upper falls have a park and picnic area. Visit in spring for stronger flow.

A 15th-century castle built by the Knights of St John, now housing the Museum of Underwater Archaeology.

Best forCastle views and maritime history

Allow two hours; the castle offers views over the marina. Entry fee applies.

Houses a rich collection of artefacts from Anatolian civilisations, including Hittite and Urartian pieces.

Best forMuseum lovers and history buffs

Closed on Mondays; allow two to three hours. It is a good indoor option in winter.

The mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, a large complex with a ceremonial plaza and museum.

Best forModern Turkish history

Free entry; expect security checks. Visit in the morning to avoid crowds.

The waterway separating Europe and Asia, lined with palaces, fortresses and waterfront mansions.

Best forScenic cruises and city views

Take a public ferry rather than a private tour for a cheaper experience; the sunset timing is popular.

A well-preserved ancient city dedicated to Aphrodite, with a stadium, theatre and temple. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Best forArchaeology without crowds

It is quieter than Ephesus; combine with Pamukkale if you have a car. Allow two hours.

A UNESCO World Heritage site at over 2,000 metres, known for the colossal stone heads of gods commissioned by King Antiochus I.

Best forSunrise views and ancient statues

Best at sunrise or sunset; the access road may be closed in winter. Check local conditions before going.

A long-distance walking trail along the Turquoise Coast, passing ancient ruins and remote villages.

Best forHiking and coastal scenery

Do a day section rather than the full route; carry water and start early. Spring and autumn are best.

A city with biblical associations, including the Pool of Abraham and nearby Göbekli Tepe, a Neolithic site.

Best forOff-the-beaten-path history

Göbekli Tepe requires a short drive; book a guided tour. Summers are very hot.

An Ottoman town with rock-cut tombs of Pontic kings, traditional houses along the Yeşilırmak river.

Best forOttoman architecture and quiet streets

Walk along the river and visit the tombs for views. It is a good stop between Ankara and the Black Sea.