Perched on the border with Armenia, the ancient city of Ani showcases dramatic ruins set on a windswept plateau. Once a thriving medieval capital, it now offers atmospheric remains of churches, walls and palaces against a stark, beautiful landscape.
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Ani
Antalya
Antalya combines a charming old town of Ottoman houses and narrow lanes with clear Mediterranean waters and nearby archaeological sites. The region offers beaches, mountain scenery and easy access to ancient cities such as Perge and Termessos.
Bodrum
A lively Aegean resort town with a blend of beaches, whitewashed houses and a harbour overlooked by the medieval Bodrum Castle. The town is also home to the Museum of Underwater Archaeology and lies near the site of the ancient Mausoleum of Halicarnassus.
Cappadocia
Known for its fairy chimneys, cave dwellings and sweeping valleys, Cappadocia feels otherworldly. Towns such as Göreme and Uçhisar provide access to underground cities, hiking trails and sunrise balloon flights that drift over the volcanic landscape.
Ephesus
One of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean, Ephesus reveals grand colonnades, marble streets and the remarkable Library of Celsus. Nearby, the House of the Virgin Mary and the remains of the Temple of Artemis add layers of historical significance.
Göreme National Park
A UNESCO-listed area within Cappadocia, Göreme National Park features rock-hewn churches covered in medieval frescoes, soft volcanic formations and sweeping viewpoints. Trails weave through valleys filled with unusual shapes and quiet villages.
Istanbul
A city where continents meet, Istanbul blends Byzantine and Ottoman heritage with modern energy. The skyline of domes and minarets surrounds landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapı Palace, while the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar offer lively, timeless corners to explore.
Kaçkar Mountains
The Kaçkar Mountains in the northeast are known for alpine scenery, deep valleys and highland villages. The area attracts hikers seeking cool summer temperatures, glacial lakes and traditional Black Sea culture.
Lake Van
Eastern Turkey's largest lake sits in a dramatic volcanic landscape surrounded by mountains and ancient sites. The island of Akdamar is a highlight, home to a stunning 10th-century Armenian church overlooking the deep blue waters. The region offers a quiet, atmospheric setting far from the classic tourist routes.
Mount Ararat
Dominating eastern Turkey, Mount Ararat is the country's highest peak and carries strong cultural and religious associations. Its snow-covered slopes rise dramatically above the surrounding plains, and the region around Doğubayazıt offers striking views and rugged landscapes.
Pamukkale
Pamukkale's white travertine terraces cascade down the hillside like frozen waterfalls, fed by natural hot springs. Above the terraces lie the ruins of Hierapolis, where Roman baths, temples and a well-preserved theatre overlook the valley.
Safranbolu
A beautifully preserved Ottoman-era town in northern Turkey, Safranbolu is known for its timber-framed houses, cobbled lanes and traditional bazaars. The old town offers atmospheric streets, restored mansions and historic caravanserais, giving visitors a glimpse into life along ancient trade routes.
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