Turkey, a country that bridges Asia and Europe, is renowned for its diversity, rich history and varied landscapes. Whether you are roaming through the streets of Istanbul or enjoying the peaceful coast of Antalya, these cities give you a chance to experience Turkish heritage and its architectural marvels.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the top cities to visit in Turkey, each offering its own unique charm, and explain why they should be on your travel list.
List of cities in Turkey for travellers
Whether you are interested in history, food or nature, the cities in Turkey offer a diverse and enriching experience. Let's look at some of the main Turkey cities:
Istanbul, the largest and most famous city to visit in Turkey, is globally recognised for its rich history, architecture and culture. The city is home to iconic landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. You can explore the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar to experience the buzz of the local shopping culture.
Ankara, the capital of Turkey, is a political hub with major government institutions and universities. Although quieter than Istanbul, Ankara offers a culturally immersive experience with tourist attractions like Anitkabir, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, and the Kocatepe Mosque.
Izmir is the third largest city in Turkey and a famous port located on the Aegean coast. You can indulge in many activities—visit the ancient ruins of Ephesus to understand its historical significance, relax by the scenic coastline and enjoy the warm climate.
Gaziantep is among the oldest cities of Turkey, renowned for its delicious cuisine that includes baklava and kebabs. You cannot miss out on the city’s historical sites, such as the Gaziantep Castle and the Zeugma Mosaic Museum. Gaziantep is also a major centre for Pistachio production.
Bursa, the green city, is famous for its lush parks, thermal baths, and Ottoman history. It was the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. In addition to participating in outdoor sports at Uludag Mountain, a popular skiing location, you can explore famous sites like the Grand Mosque and Koza Han..
Adana, located in southern Turkey, is best known for its Adana kebab, a spicy grilled meat dish. You can explore major attractions like Sabanci Mosque, the largest mosque in Turkey, and the stone bridge dating back to Roman times. Adana is also popular for its authentic Turkish cuisine, with restaurants like Kazım Bufe and Onbaşılar Kebap serving mouthwatering local delicacies.
Konya is among the oldest and most culturally significant cities in Turkey. It is where the great Sufi poet and philosopher Mevlana Rumi found refuge after escaping Afghanistan. You can visit Rumi's tomb at the Mevlana Museum and observe the famous whirling dervishes ceremony. This spiritual tradition involves dancing and spinning in circles as a form of devotion.
Antalya is famous for its beaches, historical sites and vibrant nightlife. Located on Turkey's Mediterranean coast, tourists are particularly attracted to Konyaalti and Lara beaches. You can walk down the picturesque old town with narrow streets and explore cosy cafes to relax and unwind. Antalya is also often called the Turkish Riviera because of its perfect blend of history, modernity and natural beauty.
Diyarbakir is a cultural gem with a rich history. Located in southeastern Turkey, this city is famous for its black basalt city walls, the world's longest and best-preserved ancient walls. For a peaceful retreat, you can visit major attractions like the Grand Mosque and the UNESCO-listed site Hevsel Gardens.
Located in central Turkey, Kayseri has a special historical and economic significance. Its Seljuk-era monuments, such as the Hunat Hatun Complex and Gevher Nesibe Museum, are unmissable attractions. Take part in activities such as skiing in Mount Erciyes and have a rich culinary experience by trying the famous Pastirma and Manti (Turkish dumplings).
Eskisehir is a modern city known for its large student population. One remarkable feature is Odunpazari, a historic district with Ottoman-style houses and boutique shops. Enjoy a boat ride on the Porsuk River or explore the Eskisehir Wax Museum featuring life-sized figures of famous historical figures.
Trabzon is one of the most scenic cities of Turkey. You can explore its famous landmarks, including the Sumela monastery, a beautiful structure built on a cliffside, and the Hagia Sophia of Trabzon, a beautiful medieval church that has been turned into a museum.
Interesting facts about the top cities in Turkey
Here are some interesting and less-known facts about Turkey cities:
- Istanbul has the world's largest and oldest market, Grand Bazaar, with over 4000 shops across 64 streets.
- The story of Santa Claus traces its origins to Turkey. Saint Nicholas, the historical figure behind the legend, was born in the ancient city of Patara.
- Almost half of Turkey is agricultural land. The country also accounts for more than 75% of hazelnut production worldwide.
- Turkey is a culturally diverse country with over 30 ethnic languages, including Arabic, Kurmanji, and Zazaki.
- Turkey has 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and more than 62 on the tentative list.
- Turkey's Black Sea's coastline includes the cities of Ordu, Samsun, and Trabzon and spans around 1,175 km, making it one of the longest coastlines globally.
Conclusion
Turkey guarantees an amazing blend of breathtaking scenery, bustling markets and historical sites. However, it is always better to take precautions when travelling to a new and unfamiliar territory. To ensure you’re protected, secure a travel insurance policy that provides coverage in case of sudden mishaps like medical emergencies and travel hiccups like trip cancellations, flight delays, and lost baggage. You can browse through travel insurance online to select the best plan.
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