Turkey, a land where East meets West, offers an extraordinary blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a history buff, or someone in search of relaxation, Turkey has something to captivate your heart and soul.
In this guide, we’ll list the best things to do in Turkey that will ensure your Turkish adventure will be unforgettable!
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10 Best Things To Do In Turkey
Turkey is a country brimming with diverse experiences and breathtaking landscapes, making it a top destination for travelers. From soaring above Cappadocia in a hot-air balloon to paragliding over the stunning beaches of Ölüdeniz, Turkey offers thrilling adventures and serene beauty alike.
1. Hot-Air Balloon Ride In Cappadocia
Although Cappadocia is a very important region with its history and culture, the most important factor that makes the region attractive is its natural formations. Fairy chimneys are the most well-known of these formations and the region’s symbols. Seeing these beauties from a bird’s-eye view at sunrise is much different than traveling by car or walking. There are many balloon companies in the region for this activity, which is very popular among foreign tourists.
They pick you up from your hotel early in the morning and take you to the balloon departure point. After the final preparations, the bird’s-eye view wonderland tour, which will last approximately an hour, begins. Then, you get your certificate and are dropped off at the hotel. Of course, weather conditions are very important for this to be achieved. Approval from meteorology is awaited until the last moment, and if there is no problem, flights begin.
2. Paragliding Above Ölüdeniz, Fethiye
Ölüdeniz is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It is the first place that comes to mind when Fethiye is mentioned. It is a unique beach from which visitors cannot leave easily. While you are sunbathing on the beach or swimming in the sea, you realize that the sky is full of paragliders. If you like adrenaline, there are many companies right next to Belcekız Beach.
After climbing Babadağ, where you will jump with vehicles, you drop yourself down from 1900 meters accompanied by certified pilots. That famous view, which is also used in the promotion of our country, is under your feet. After about a half-hour flight, you land at Belcekız Beach.
3. Kitesurfing In Gökova
Akçapınar Beach, one of the most suitable kitesurfing beaches in the world, is an indispensable spot for sea sports enthusiasts with its wind, sea, and nature. Since Akçapınar Beach, located in Muğla Gökova, is right next to Akyaka Beach, you will hear the name Akyaka more often. The fact that it is one of the windiest places in Gökova makes it suitable for this sport.
It can be thought of as a synchronized version of a kite and a surfboard. Maybe you’re not interested in this sport, but if you are and have no experience, there are many companies in Akyaka where you can get training. There are also companies that claim to make you a kitesurfer with 7 to 8 hours of training. So, if you are willing to kitesurf, there is no reason why you cannot do it. Gökova Bay is the most suitable place in our country for this, so there is a lot you can do other than kitesurfing.
4. Göcek Boat Tour
How about having an unforgettable experience in the deep blue waters of the Aegean? Then the Göcek boat tour will be the most enjoyable activity that will spice up your holiday. This journey, where the wind caresses your hair, and the heat of the sun scorches your skin, is like a dream. A different natural wonder greets you around every corner; Magnificent bays hidden among lush forests. If you only knew how impressive it is to swim among historical shipwrecks from ancient times. Göcek is definitely one of the places that offer the most enjoyable boat tour experience in Turkey.
5. Rafting At Saklıkent
Although it is said that not every place is suitable for rafting, we can say that there is a place for everyone. If the necessary precautions are taken and the instructions are followed, you can share this excitement in many places, such as Fırtına Creek, Saklıkent Canyon, Köprülü Canyon, Çoruh, provided that you get wet at the end.
6. Diving In Kaş
Of course, beauties are not only on land. The Kaş coast, which is the only region of our country with the Dalmatian coastal type – the best example of which is the Dubrovnik coast in the Adriatic Sea – can be said to be one of the favorite spots of diving lovers with its underwater beauties. If you do not have serious health problems, you can dive with expert certified divers, even if you have no experience.
The best diving spots in Kaş are II. Flying Fish Reef, where the Italian Warplane sank in World War II, Lycian Shipwreck, which is said to have ruins from the Lycian Period, Besmi Reef, which also has ruins from the Lycian Period, Dimitri Shipwreck, Oasis and Tunnel, which was created in 1968. A mysterious flora and fauna are full of carettas, schools of fish, underwater meadows, and Mediterranean monk seals. Depending on your experience, the places where you can dive are determined by experts.
7. Trekking The Lycian Way
Today, the region called the Teke Peninsula, located between Antalya and Fethiye (Dalaman Stream), is Lycia, which was called the Land of Light in ancient times. The Lycian Way walk, which you can do in this region, passing through beautiful bays, villages, and ancient cities, accompanied by unforgettable views, is approximately 555 kilometers long.
While one end of the road starts from Fethiye – Hisarönü, the other end is in Antalya – Geyikbayırı Village. Which one will be the beginning and which will be the end is up to you. You can walk 30 different stages in parts, but if you have time and are in good condition, you can complete the route in 30 to 40 days. There are also facilities such as hostels and camping areas where you can stay during your walk.
On the Lycian Way, one of the 10 most beautiful walking paths in the world, you can see beautiful ancient cities such as Pınara, Sidyma, Phaselis, Patara, Antiphellos, and Simena, as well as Xanthos and Letoon, which are on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
8. Swim In The Ancient Cleopatra Pool In Pamukkale
Everyone already knows Pamukkale. There is no need to talk about her beauty. Right next to it, there is a section that you can enter for a fee. In fact, it is actually a part of the Ancient City of Hierapolis. It is also called Cleopatra Pool. Over time, as the structures around it collapse and fall into the columns, a different view emerges. It is a pool that is approximately 2200 years old and has a temperature of 36 degrees because it is thermal water. Who wouldn’t want to swim in a pool full of ancient ruins, especially if Cleopatra once swam here? Maybe it owes its beauty to these waters.
First, visit Hierapolis, then enjoy the unique travertines of Pamukkale. Before you leave, dive into a thousands-year-old pool and swim among the historical columns.
9. Istanbul Bosphorus Tour
A tour on the Bosphorus, which divides Istanbul into two, will allow you to have an unforgettable experience where you can see the unique beauties of Istanbul. During the Bosphorus tour, you will be able to see dozens of mansions, waterside residences, pavilions, and palaces, especially the Bosphorus bridges, Dolmabahçe, and Topkapı Palace. Unfortunately, although it loses its beauty a little more every year, it is still priceless.
10. Pamper Yourself In A Turkish Bath
A place to clean and meet people, hamams (sometimes called Turkish baths in English) were essential in the days when most homes did not have indoor plumbing. These days, they’re usually a destination for special occasions and are visited by visitors more than residents, but they’re still a luxury that’s well worth enjoying.
How Do You Say “Things To Do” In Turkish?
“Things to do” in Turkish can be translated as Yapılacak Şeyler.
Vocabulary Related To Traveling In Turkey
| English | Turkish |
|---|---|
| Tourism | Turizm |
| Tourist | Turist |
| Travel | Seyahat |
| Hotel | Otel |
| Reservation | Rezervasyon |
| Flight | Uçuş |
| Airport | Havalimanı |
| Ticket | Bilet |
| Destination | Hedef |
| Guide | Rehber |
| Map | Harita |
| Tour | Tur |
| Museum | Müze |
| Sightseeing | Gezi |
| Beach | Plaj |
| Mountain | Dağ |
| Adventure | Macera |
| Souvenir | Hediyelik eşya |
| Visa | Vize |
| Passport | Pasaport |
| Backpack | Sırt çantası |
| Currency | Döviz |
| Customs | Gümrük |
| Information | Bilgi |
| Vacation | Tatil |
| Cultural Site | Kültürel Alan |
| National Park | Milli Park |
| Cruise | Gemi Turu |
| Festival | Festival |
| Hiking | Yürüyüş |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Is The Prettiest Place In Turkey?
One of the prettiest places in Turkey is Cappadocia, known for its unique rock formations, fairy chimneys, and hot air balloon rides offering stunning views.
2. What Is Turkey Famous For?
Turkey is famous for its rich history, delicious cuisine (like kebabs and baklava), bustling bazaars, stunning beaches, and landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque in Istanbul.
3. What’s Worth Seeing In Turkey?
Turkey offers many attractions worth seeing, including the ancient city of Ephesus, the natural thermal pools of Pamukkale, the vibrant city of Istanbul, and the ancient ruins of Troy.
4. What Do People In Turkey Do For Fun?
In Turkey, people enjoy a variety of activities for fun, such as socializing in tea gardens, playing backgammon, enjoying Turkish baths (hammams), going to beaches, and participating in festivals and cultural events.
Will You Give A Try To One Of These Wonderful Experiences?
Whether you’re diving in the clear waters of Kaş, trekking the historic Lycian Way, or simply pampering yourself in a traditional Turkish bath, there’s something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to travel in Turkey and experience an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most captivating destinations.
