Turkey scores big on all fronts, be it the legendary history, spectacular scenery or lip-smacking food. A trip to Turkey is a voyage of discovery where the intermingling of cultures through the ages serves up a delectable treat for the eyes and the soul.
Turkey straddles two continents, Asia and Europe, and so there is often confusion as to where it belongs. Although the European portion of Turkey known as Thrace makes up hardly 3% of the area, over 10% of Turkey’s population lives here. It’s quite a novelty to be able to flit between two continents on a ferry from Thrace’s largest city, Istanbul.
Istanbul is a beautiful amalgamation of cultures between the East and West. Its strategic location on the Silk Road saw many merchants from different parts of the world pass through its lands. Some were so enamored by the city that they extended their visits to gradually become permanent residents of the land, thus adding to the diverse culture.
Turkey’s cities which are bursting with minarets and history are worth every moment of your time. From the mausoleum of Ataturk in the capital Ankara, the Old Bazaars of Antalya, and the third capital of the Ottoman Empire, Edirne, there’s a lot about Turkey’s cities that will astound. It’s not just the cities though, Turkey also abounds in scenic villages eager to extend their hospitality.
Turkey has some iconic landmarks that leave deep impressions on the visitor such as the ‘fairy chimney’ rock formations of Cappadocia, the lyrical hot springs of Pamukkale and the UNESCO listed Ephesus. Turkey’s Asian half known as Anatolia is where you’ll come across some of the country’s heart-stopping wonders. Mount Ararat, Turkey’s highest point is located here and so is the wondrous stretch of Patara beach. This uncrowded stretch which extends for 17kms is a haven as few crowds converge on this stretch of the Mediterranean. The area near Patara is also said to be the birthplace of Saint Nicholas, Santa Claus.
There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained and occupied in Turkey, from kayaking over sunken ruins, traditional gület cruises on the Aegean or Mediterranean Seas and canyoning in mountain gorges. However, if being adventurous is not your glass of ‘cay,’ then just sit back and indulge in the culinary delights that Turkey has to offer.
Finding the perfect place to stay in Oludeniz can be surprisingly difficult. While the region is famous for the Blue Lagoon, one of the most photographed beaches in the world, the local hotel market is a mix of loud, all-inclusive resorts and hidden boutique gems. Without a clear plan, it’s easy to end up in…
Finding the perfect beach stay in Marmaris sounds easy until you’re scrolling through hundreds of identical blue-water photos. A few years ago, we booked a luxury suite in the city center, only to realize that “beachfront” meant we had to cross a four-lane highway just to touch the sand. Instead of a relaxing retreat, we…
Marmaris, known for its historic Ottoman charm and gorgeous coastline, is slowly becoming one of Turkey’s most exciting destinations. Planning a trip to Marmaris should be fun, but the logistics of building a daily itinerary can often feel like a second job. Finding reliable restaurants, booking activities, and managing transport can be more of a…
Fethiye is arguably one of Turkey’s most interesting cosmopolitan hubs. This small harbor town has recently become one of our favorite places to visit. However, you have to be careful. Planning a trip to Fethiye often starts with a dream of turquoise waters, but the reality of choosing between crowded all-inclusive traps and aging resorts…
We’ve always felt that Bodrum is where Turkey reveals its most glamorous side without ever losing its warm atmosphere. That’s why we often recommend this town to travelers looking for a truly luxurious escape. From lavish restaurants and fine boutiques to iconic all-white houses overlooking the sea, there’s no shortage of indulgent experiences! On top…
The quintessential beach resort of Marmaris on Turkey’s gorgeous southern Turquoise Coast is busy and loud. However, it’s got everything anyone ever requires from a beach resort town! Think of a lovely harbor bobbing with wooden yachts and sitting pretty beneath a magnificent and imposing hulk of a castle; that’s Marmaris for you. Since it’s…
Catching a flight from Istanbul Airport can be both exciting and stressful, especially when you’re trying to beat the city’s notorious traffic or dealing with a long layover. Luckily, we’re here to show you the top-rated hotels near Istanbul Airport with free shuttle, which will take the hassle out of your travel plans. Considering the…
As one of the most visited cities in the world, it’s not shocking that Istanbul is on your must-visit list. However, if you haven’t checked it off your list because of budget, we have the perfect solution: 3 star hotels in Istanbul Turkey! In case you didn’t know, Istanbul boasts over 2,000 hotels catering to…
Many places have tried to capture the concept of “old meets new,” but none do it quite like Istanbul. We were in awe when we first saw the city’s centuries-old mosques standing right beside trendy rooftop bars. At the heart of this vibrant blend lies none other than Istiklal Street, the city’s most famous pedestrian…
Byzantium, Constantinople — this ancient city astride the glittering Bosphorus Strait has been known by many names and has a long and illustrious history. We’re talking about Istanbul, which is as magical as it sounds. This ancient modern city sits at the confluence of the east and the west, and is a place where empires,…
Istanbul is all about iconic sights and landmarks, and few landmarks are as widely known and popular as Taksim Square. This lively square can be considered the symbolic heart of the city, sitting on the European side of Istanbul. Multiple Insta-worthy streets lie off the main square, which are all about photo-ops, shops, street performers,…
Can you imagine a former red-light area is one of the most happening neighborhoods of the stunning city of Istanbul? Behold Karaköy, a happening harborside area located on the European side of Istanbul, where the Golden Horn meets the Bosphorus Strait. Ottoman-era structures and traditional neighborhood shops and bakeries rub shoulders with late-night cocktail bars,…
Every morning in Cappadocia, the sky always fills with hot air balloons rising over its gorgeous valleys and ancient rock formations. It’s a sight that draws travelers from all over the world, including us. However, what made our stays truly special was the places we called home. While there are so many accommodations to choose…
The geological oddity that is the region of Cappadocia is nothing less than an otherworldly landscape of strange rock formations, boulder-filled hillsides, a vast cave network, and its zenith, the amazing fairy chimneys. The best hotels in Cappadocia are an extension of its charm. Rising at dawn from your cavernous suite to witness hundreds of…
If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up inside a storybook landscape, Cappadocia is exactly where that dream comes to life, and we can honestly say it feels even more magical in person. This region of central Turkey isn’t just famous for its sunrise skies filled with hot air balloons; it’s also home to some of…
If you’re planning a trip to Cappadocia, we’re pretty sure Goreme is already on your list, and for good reason. This small town is the perfect base for exploring the region’s valleys, cave churches, and our favorite, hot air balloon rides. Having been there a few times, we’ve found that what made our stays truly…
Have you ever dreamed of waking up in a one-of-a-kind cave hotel or watching hot air balloons drift past your window early in the morning? If so, Urgup should be your very next destination. We’re lucky enough to have traveled to Urgup a few times, and unlike other busier towns in Cappadocia, it has both…
Known earlier as Byzantium and Constantinople, Istanbul is one heady collision point of cultures and continents. It’s where the East meets the West, literally, at the cerulean waters of the Bosphorus Strait. In one frenetic fusion of mysticism and modernity, Istanbul combines diverse philosophies and people. Apart from Ottoman-era mosques and Byzantine churches, it’s also…
A mesmerixing view over the lake and a hearty Turkish breakfast, what else do the best hotels in Pamukkale, Turkey have to offer?
Staying at hotels in Istanbul Airport is not just about transit. Perhaps we can never get over the fact that Istanbul is the only city in the world where two continents meet. And for that very reason, Istanbul boasts loud as an eclectic and vibrant city. With a history dates back as far as 2,500…
Istanbul, where do we have to start. Thanks to its unique geographical position, spread over two continents, Turkey’s largest city is endowed with enchanting nature and multicultural textures. The atmosphere is really alive, in line with modern dynamic life. With a history that stretches back to 2500 years, each neighborhood has its own food, culture,…
The city of Edirne, or Odrin as it was historically known, was the third capital city of the Ottoman Empire and the site of numerous sieges and battles. In fact, Edirne has the dubious distinction of being the most frequently contested place on the globe. The Ottoman influence on the city is evident in the…
You know Ephesus and the ancient Greek ruins of the 10th century B.C. You’ve heard about Pamukkale and its calcite terraces of thermal waters. You stand in awe of Aya Sofya and its elaborate mosaics and august structure. But you’ve probably missed the small yet stunning villages of Turkey. This article list the 11 most…
The Mediterranean is one of my favorite spots in the world. You never know what new gem you will find throughout the journey. This time, I went to Turkey to visit the dazzling city of Pamukkale located in southwestern Anatolia.[booking_product_helper shortname=”pamukkale”] Pamukkale, which in Turkish means “Cotton Castle”, is a fantastic spectacle, made up of petrified…