Turkey is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year to its historic sites, beaches, and natural wonders. The country is known for producing high-quality textiles, including Turkish carpets and rugs, which are sought after around the world. Turkish people are known for their warm and welcoming nature, making visitors feel at home in their country.
Travelers will like to eat Turkish cuisine which is known for its delicious and diverse flavors. Some of the most popular cuisine items include kebabs, baklava, and Turkish delight. Turkish tea, also known as çay, is a popular beverage in Turkey and is an integral part of Turkish culture. It is often served to guests as a sign of respect and hospitality.
Top Things To Experience In Turkey
Turkey has a long and diverse history, spanning many civilizations and empires, including the Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman Empires. Are you planning to visit Turkey? Here are some top things you need to experience in Turkey:
1. Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia, also known as Ayasofya in Turkish, is a world-renowned historical and architectural landmark located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was originally built as a Christian cathedral in the 6th century AD during the Byzantine Empire. However, it was converted into a mosque in the 15th century after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. Since its conversion back into a mosque in 2020, Hagia Sophia is now used for Muslim worship and is open to visitors for tours outside of prayer times.
2. Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar covers an area of over 60 streets. It is home to more than 4,000 shops selling a wide variety of goods, including jewelry, textiles, spices, ceramics, and Turkish carpets. You will find several restaurants and cafes where visitors can sample traditional Turkish cuisine. The architecture of the Grand Bazaar is an impressive mix of Ottoman and Byzantine styles. It features arched domes and vaulted ceilings, ornate columns, and intricate mosaics.
3. Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is a famous mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I. The impressive architecture and design make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey. This mosque is named after the blue tiles that adorn its interior. It is specially imported from the city of Iznik (formerly known as Nicaea). The mosque features a large central dome, six minarets, and several smaller domes and half domes.
4. Temple Of Artemis
The Temple of Artemis, also known as the Temple of Diana, was an ancient Greek temple located in Ephesus (in modern-day Turkey). It was dedicated to the goddess Artemis, who was worshipped as a goddess of fertility, hunting, and childbirth. The Temple of Artemis was a magnificent structure, featuring 127 columns that were 60 feet tall. It was made of marble and was decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures. This temple was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
5. Pamukkale Cotton Castle
Pamukkale, meaning “cotton castle” in Turkish, is a natural site in Turkey. This place is known for its stunning white terraces made of travertine. Located in the Denizli Province in southwestern Turkey, Pamukkale is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts thousands of visitors each year. The terraces are formed by the flow of thermal water from natural hot springs that are rich in calcium and other minerals. Pamukkale also features the ruins of the ancient city of Hierapolis, which was founded in the 2nd century BC.
6. Galata Bridge
The Galata Bridge is a famous landmark in Istanbul, Turkey. It is a natural harbor that separates the city’s historic peninsula from the newer parts of the city. The Galata Bridge is also a popular spot for street vendors selling traditional Turkish snacks like roasted chestnuts and simit. One of the unique features of the Galata Bridge is the many fishing boats that line the upper level. Fishermen can be seen casting their lines into the water throughout the day and night.Â
7. Cappadocia
Cappadocia is a region located in central Turkey known for its unique landscape, underground cities, and cave dwellings. It is a popular tourist destination for its hot air balloon rides, hiking trails, and historical landmarks. The balloons launch early in the morning, and passengers can enjoy stunning views. This region is home to several underground cities, such as Kaymakli and Derinkuyu. You can catch up with the stunning views of the city from above.