5 Best Cities To Visit In Turkey

You’re in the right spot if you want the Top 5 Best Cities in Turkey. Turkey sits in both Europe and Asia, standing out as a country shaped by many cultures. This unique place combines natural beauty, many cultures, and great cities.

Turkey’s cities offer so much, from lovely beaches and bays to old history and grand mosques. You’ll find tasty foods, friendly people, and the rich culture of Turkey that will stay with you for years to come.

Spanning both Europe and Asia, Turkey is a distinctive country with influences from all over the world

Top 5 Most Beautiful Cities in Turkey

Turkey's mix of people and cultures has led to special places, old ways, and beliefs. It also has amazing buildings and famous spots that amaze visitors. You might know cities like Istanbul, Goreme in Cappadocia, and Antalya. But Turkey has many more lovely spots to see. Here are five top cities to visit in Turkey for your next trip.

1. Ankara - The Modern Capital

Ankara is the capital of Turkey, set in the middle of the land. It holds the main government offices, a deep past, and a real old-time feel. If you want to dive into real Turkish life and see one of Turkey’s big cities, you must visit Ankara.

Ankara is great to see, yet many travelers skip it for Istanbul, which is not wise. It also feels modern and full of life, with great places to eat and lively nightlife.

Be sure to add the Old Quarters tour to your plan. Walking its narrow stone streets, lined with old red-roofed Ottoman homes, is well worth it.

Ankara is the capital of Turkey, situated in the heart of the nation

2. Istanbul - Where East Meets West

Many think Istanbul is the top city to see in Turkey. Istanbul, one of the world's great cities, lies on both sides of the Bosphorus Strait and connects East and West. Its long and rough past has shaped it, with many people and cultures leaving their mark. You can spot traces of the Greeks, Romans, and Venetians all around.

Thanks to its key spot, traders came with goods and riches, leading to the grand buildings, fine mosques, and lovely palaces we admire now. Istanbul is full of old sights, like the famous Byzantine church, Haghia Sophia, making it a joy to explore.

Visitors have plenty of great places to eat, drink, and enjoy nights out in Istanbul. This charming city is great for slow walks, and its kind and friendly people will steal your heart, making you love the city fast.

3. Antalya - Sun, Sand, and History

Looking for a nice city to visit in Turkey? Maybe try Antalya. It’s a lovely beach city on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast by the southern Mediterranean. You’ll see some of the best beaches in Turkey, many with blue flags, and pretty mountains in the background.

Most fun things in Antalya involve the sea. You can walk around the Old Port filled with boats or visit the city’s soft, white beaches like Konyaalt Beach, Moonlight Beach, and Mermerli Beach. You could also take a well-known boat trip from Antalya to this spot.

If you like the past, Antalya has an Old Town named Kaleici. There, you’ll see old buildings and narrow stone paths. Small shops, coffee spots, and places to eat fill the streets. Don’t miss local old sites like Hadrian's Gate, Hidirlik Tower, and more. Antalya also has many great museums worth a look.

Antalya is a beach city to visit in Turkey

4. Bodrum - The Aegean Jewel

Bodrum sits by the sea, a spot for beach fans and party lovers. It’s a lovely place with all you need for a fun trip, making it a cool spot to visit. The town’s roots show in its white homes, small cute cafes, and stone streets, adding beauty and leading to stunning shores.

Bodrum holds old charm with a grand castle, old ruins, and a big outdoor theater. Yet, it also has fancy bars, trendy food places, and lively clubs, offering fun for all tastes.

5. Goreme - Paradise For All History Lovers

Goreme is a town carved from soft rock. It leads to Goreme National Park, a UNESCO spot with cave churches from the 10th and 11th centuries. The park draws backpackers, but it’s also great for tasting true Turkish food and wine.

You can easily reach Goreme. Flights run daily from Istanbul's Sabiha Gokcen airport (SAW) to Kayseri. From there, a van takes you to Goreme town. In Goreme, you’ll find many places to eat, travel offices, and cave hotels, from cheap to fancy.

The tourist town in Turkey sits in old Cappadocia. Here, the Goreme valley and nearby spots hold carved rock sites. These show rare traces of Byzantine art after the Iconoclast age. The striking scene was shaped by wind and rain. It is a dream place for those who love past times and buildings.

Goreme is a town hewn from volcanic rock, serving as the gateway to Goreme National Park

Budget Travel Tips For Exploring The Beautiful Cities In Turkey

Traveling on a budget in Turkey is not only feasible but can also lead to enriching experiences without breaking the bank. Here are some budget-friendly tips for exploring the beautiful cities in Turkey:

Use Public Transportation

One of the most cost-effective ways to get around Turkish cities is by using public transportation, such as buses, trams, and metro systems. Most cities have efficient networks that can take you to key attractions and neighborhoods.

Eat at Local Restaurants

Turkish cuisine is known for its delicious and affordable street food and local eateries. Look for local restaurants, kebab stalls, and street vendors to savor authentic dishes without spending a fortune. Don't forget to try Turkish tea and simit (sesame-crusted bread).

Choose Budget Accommodations

Opt for budget-friendly accommodations like hostels, guesthouses, or boutique hotels, which often offer comfortable stays at lower prices compared to luxury hotels. Many Turkish cities have excellent hostel options that cater to budget travelers.

Take Advantage of Free Attractions

Most Turkish cities offer free or low-cost attractions and events. Research ahead of time to find museums, parks, and historical sites that offer free admission or discounts on certain days.

Shop Wisely

Bargaining is a common practice in Turkey, especially in markets (bazaars). Don't hesitate to negotiate for souvenirs, textiles, and handicrafts. Be polite but firm, and you might get some great deals.

Plan Ahead

Booking your flights and accommodations in advance can lead to significant cost savings. Look for deals and promotions online, and consider flexible travel dates to secure the best prices.

Apply for Your Turkey e-Visa

To streamline your entry into Turkey and ensure a smooth travel experience, apply for your Turkey e-Visa in advance through Turkey Immigration Services. The e-Visa allows you to enter the country for tourism and leisure purposes, and it's available to citizens of many countries. 

The important thing is that the price of electronic visa fees is much lower than traditional visa fees, which helps you save a large amount of money and time. The application process is online and can be completed from the comfort of your home.