Things You Must Do at Least Once in Turkey
Turkey has much more to offer than the usual tourist spots. If you want experiences you’ll remember for years, add a few of these to your trip. Watch the sunrise over Cappadocia. Seeing hot air balloons fill the sky while the sun comes up is one of Turkey’s most memorable experiences. You can watch from the ground or take a balloon ride. Take a ferry across the Bosphorus. In Istanbul, you can literally travel between Europe and Asia during the same trip. A simple ferry ride gives you great views of the city. Swim in the Mediterranean. Head to places like Kaş, Fethiye or the Antalya coast and spend a day in the clear blue water. A boat trip to nearby bays is even better. Visit Ephesus. Walk through the ancient city and see the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre and the old streets. It’s one of the places where Turkey’s history really comes alive. Spend a night in a cave hotel in Cappadocia. Staying inside a traditional rock-cut room is a completely different hotel experience. Eat a real Turkish breakfast. Forget the quick hotel breakfast. Find a good local place and take your time with cheese, olives, eggs, bread, jams and tea. Watch the sunset in Pamukkale. Walk around the white travertines and combine the visit with the ancient ruins of Hierapolis. Try a Turkish hammam. A traditional hammam is more than just taking a bath. It’s a relaxing cultural experience that’s worth trying at least once. Take a road trip along the coast. Renting a car and stopping at small beaches, villages and local restaurants can be one of the best ways to see Turkey beyond the major cities. You don’t need to do all of these on one trip. Pick a few that match your interests and leave some time for things you discover along the way.