Turkey, a country located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. With its unique blend of Eastern and Western influences, Turkey offers a unique travel experience that is unlike anywhere else in the world. Summer is a great time to visit Turkey, with warm weather, long days, and a plethora of festivals and events to enjoy. But with so many amazing places to visit, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to visit in Turkey in summer, from bustling cities to stunning natural wonders.
Get ultimate traveler plannerHistorical Cities
Turkey is home to some of the most impressive and well-preserved historical cities in the world. In the summer, these cities come alive with festivals, concerts, and cultural events that showcase the country’s rich heritage. Here are some of the best historical cities to visit in Turkey in summer:
Istanbul
Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, is a must-visit destination in the summer. The city is home to some of the most impressive historical landmarks in the world, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. In the summer, Istanbul hosts a range of festivals and events, including the Istanbul Music Festival, the Istanbul Film Festival, and the Istanbul Jazz Festival.
Things to Do in Istanbul:
- Visit the Hagia Sophia, one of the most impressive Byzantine churches in the world.
- Explore the Topkapi Palace, the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years.
- Walk through the bustling streets of the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.
- Take a ferry ride along the Bosphorus Strait, which separates Europe and Asia.
Ankara
Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, is a great place to visit in the summer. The city is home to a range of historical landmarks, including the Anitkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, and the Ankara Castle. In the summer, Ankara hosts a range of festivals and events, including the Ankara Jazz Festival and the Ankara Film Festival.
Things to Do in Ankara:
- Visit the Anitkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey.
- Explore the Ankara Castle, a medieval fortress that dates back to the 7th century.
- Walk through the bustling streets of the Kızılay district, the heart of Ankara’s shopping and entertainment scene.
- Visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which showcases the history and culture of Anatolia.
Natural Wonders
Turkey is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. In the summer, these natural wonders come alive with lush greenery, wildflowers, and a range of wildlife. Here are some of the best natural wonders to visit in Turkey in summer:
Pamukkale
Pamukkale, located in the southwestern region of Turkey, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most impressive natural wonders in the world. The site is home to a range of travertine pools and waterfalls, as well as the ancient city of Hierapolis. In the summer, Pamukkale is a popular destination for swimming, hiking, and relaxation. (See Also: Where to Visit in the Caribbean? Top Island Destinations)
Things to Do in Pamukkale:
- Swim in the travertine pools and waterfalls.
- Explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, which dates back to the 2nd century BC.
- Take a hike through the surrounding countryside, which is home to a range of wildlife and wildflowers.
- Relax at one of the many spas and wellness centers in the area.
Cappadocia
Cappadocia, located in the central region of Turkey, is a unique and fascinating region known for its fairy chimneys, honeycombed hills, and ancient cave dwellings. In the summer, Cappadocia is a popular destination for hot air balloon rides, hiking, and horseback riding. Here are some of the best things to do in Cappadocia:
Things to Do in Cappadocia:
- Take a hot air balloon ride over the fairy chimneys and honeycombed hills.
- Explore the ancient cave dwellings and underground cities.
- Go hiking through the surrounding countryside, which is home to a range of wildlife and wildflowers.
- Take a horseback ride through the valleys and canyons of Cappadocia.
Beaches and Coastal Towns
Turkey has a long coastline along the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, with a range of beautiful beaches and coastal towns to visit in the summer. Here are some of the best beaches and coastal towns to visit in Turkey in summer:
Oludeniz
Oludeniz, located in the southwestern region of Turkey, is a popular beach destination known for its stunning blue lagoon and picturesque village. In the summer, Oludeniz is a great place to relax, swim, and enjoy water sports.
Things to Do in Oludeniz:
- Relax on the stunning blue lagoon beach.
- Take a boat trip to the nearby islands and bays.
- Go paragliding or take a hot air balloon ride over the village.
- Explore the picturesque village and its many shops and restaurants.
Fethiye
Fethiye, located in the southwestern region of Turkey, is a charming coastal town known for its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and picturesque harbor. In the summer, Fethiye is a great place to relax, swim, and enjoy water sports. (See Also: Where to Visit in Columbia? Ultimate Guide)
Things to Do in Fethiye:
- Relax on the stunning beaches of Fethiye.
- Take a boat trip to the nearby islands and bays.
- Explore the ancient ruins of Fethiye, including the Fethiye Lycian Rock Tombs.
- Walk through the picturesque harbor and its many shops and restaurants.
Recap
Turkey is a country with a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. In the summer, Turkey is a great place to visit, with warm weather, long days, and a range of festivals and events to enjoy. From bustling cities to stunning natural wonders, Turkey has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, Turkey is a destination that should be on your bucket list.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Turkey?
The best time to visit Turkey is in the summer, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the peak tourist season is in July and August, when the temperatures can be very hot.
What are the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey?
The most popular tourist destinations in Turkey include Istanbul, Ankara, Pamukkale, Cappadocia, Oludeniz, and Fethiye. These destinations offer a range of historical landmarks, natural wonders, and cultural experiences.
What is the best way to get around Turkey?
The best way to get around Turkey is by bus or train, as these modes of transportation are affordable and convenient. However, there are also many taxi and shuttle services available, as well as car rental options for those who prefer to drive.
What is the local currency in Turkey?
The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for small purchases and tips. (See Also: Where to Visit in Chester? Top Hidden Gems)
Is Turkey a safe country to visit?
Turkey is generally a safe country to visit, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions to ensure your safety. Be aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid traveling alone at night. Additionally, it’s a good idea to purchase travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical or travel-related expenses.
