Türkiye - Things to Do (Including Offbeat Attractions)

Istanbul - of Kitap, Kahve and Kofte

Istanbul is the only city in the world that straddles two continents — Asia and Europe. It is a vibrant city where the east meets the west, blending ancient history with modern culture.

Below are a few things I’d definitely recommend during your stay:

• Balat: Take a walking tour to Balat and Fener, very cute neighborhoods with colorful houses and street art

• Dervish: Go to a Whirling Dervishes show — something really calming about it

• Visit a Turkish hammam — An experience like no other. Cagaloglu is amazing

• Take a cable car up to Pierre Loti hill to enjoy panoramic views while sipping Turkish tea in a local cafe. Hike your way back down through the vertical cemetery called Eyup.

• Hire a professional photographer — They will help you bring back memorable pictures in the most picturesque backdrops

• Lunch in Europe, dinner in Asia — How does that sound? Head to the ferry terminal and take a ferry to the Asian side (Uskudar) and watch the sunset from there

• Visit the Grand bazar and spice market: Be prepared to haggle!

• Last but not the least, the Hagia Sophia - The Blue mosque, the Galata tower view point, the TopKapi and Taksim square - the most popular tourist spots.

Everywhere you turn in Istanbul — you find Kitap (book stores), Kahve (coffee shops) and Kofte (local delicacy — meatballs). Try them all!

Antalya - the Turkish Riviera

Antalya is renowned for its stunning Mediterranean coastline, picturesque old town and ancient ruins. It offers something for everyone, be it a sun-seeker or a history enthusiast.

Recommendations:

• Konyalti: Take the historical tram to Konyalti beach and viewpoint. Konyalti is known for its clear turquoise waters, pebbly shoreline and stunning backdrop of the Taurus Mountains. The beach is lined with cafes, restaurants and parks, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to relax, swim and enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean scenery.

• Visit the marina and take the ferry to the gigantic Duden waterfalls. The falls can be visited via land, but the views from the water are unparalleled. Return back to the marina and hike up

• Take an early morning walk to and around Hidirlik Tower for panoramic views of the ocean, and a dose of crisp, fresh air!

• Hadrian lanes: Visit the famous Hadrian’s gate, walk through it to the other side and roam around endless lanes with the cutest little houses, stores selling ceramics, lamps and handmade products and interesting cafes.

• Aspendos: Take a day trip to explore the ancient cities of Side and Perge, along with the awe-inspiring Aspendos theater. Prepare to be amazed!

Cappadocia: Out-of-the-world. Literally.

The first feeling you’ll have as you ride in your taxi from the airport to the hotel is -”Is this really Earth or have I been transported to Mars?” This place is totally surreal, and filled with the weirdest, coolest, awe-inspiring natural formations!

Top things to do:

• Riding balloons: Spend a minimum of two mornings in Cappadocia — The first morning, go on a little adv

  enture — Take a hot air balloon ride that flies you over a unique landscape of fairy chimneys, cave dwellings and surreal rock formations.

• Viewing balloons: The second morning, head to any hotel that offers hot air balloon viewing from their terrace. My recommendation: Sultan cave hotel. What I’d do is book a table for breakfast at their restaurant Seten, where you can enjoy an amazing spread of Turkish breakfast, and step out to the terrace to view the flying balloons. Watching the balloons is as memorable as being on them!

• During the day, you can't go wrong with the classic ‘Red Tour’ and ‘Green tour’ that take you to beautiful valleys, ancient underground cities, castles and monasteries. Both need a day each.

Turkey is great for those seeking a mix of active travel, a bit of history and a relaxing time by the water. It is best for solo travelers, couples, honeymoon or even to celebrate an event or milestone - imagine a marriage proposal on a hot air balloon above Fairy chimneys! Do reach out for a customized itinerary of Beautiful, dreamy Türkiye!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Türkiye. In need of further inspiration? Check out Taylor Grager’s guide, The Ultimate 5-Day Western Turkey Road Trip.