Tourist In Turkey: Guide To Places That Cannot Be Missed In The Land Of Marvels

The city through which the border of the two continents run through — Istanbul has a timeless charm to it. The City Of Four Empires, Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, the Latin Empire and the Ottoman Empire, it is undoubtedly one of the most culturally-rich cities in the world. Each corner or lane you walk through speaks of a different civilisation, an era in history, and its split continent location. Here's what you cannot miss in Istanbul: 

The Blue Mosque or Sultanahmet Mosque is an iconic historical landmark in Istanbul that should not be missed. Once inside, you'll see why the mosque was given its name; it is because of the thousands of blue handcrafted znik tiles that adorn the interior walls. Traditional Ottoman patterns, flowers, fruit, and other elements are depicted on the tiles. There is also Sultan Ahmed I's mausoleum, six elegant minarets, and the impressive fourty-three metre central dome.

Best Time To Visit: Open daily from 9 AM to 7PM. Unless you want to pray, plan your visit outside of the five daily prayer times.

The Sultanahmet Square, Istanbul's historical hub puts you right in the heart of the city's most prominent and historical attractions. The park is adorned with obelisks and fountains and the square contains remnants of an ancient hippodrome. From here, you can see two of the city's most important landmarks to the north and south — the Hagia Sophia, a famous sixth-century mosque that is now a museum and the Blue Mosque. 

Best Time To Visit: Any time of the day

Galata Tower, one of the world's oldest towers is the place to be in Turkey for some of the most spectacular sunsets. You would recognise it from one of the scenes in the movie Dil Dhadakne Do. Nothing beats the view of the Istanbul peninsula and its surroundings from the sixty-seven metre fire watchtower. It was built in the sixth century and has been rebuilt and restored numerous times since then and never fails to amaze its spectators.

Best Time To Visit: Open from 8:30 AM till midnight, the view is especially beautiful at dawn

This is one of the most beautiful landmarks in Istanbul's historical district. The East Roman Empire constructed the Hagia Sophia, which translates to 'holy wisdom', in the sixth century. Following Mehmed the Conqueror's rule in 1453, it was converted into a mosque and fortified. You can admire the marbled structure as well as the dreamy interiors of this architectural marvel. It has calligraphic panels and bronze lamps and the majority of the walls are covered in beautiful mosaics of gold, silver, and colourful stones, truly a sight to behold!

Best Time To Visit: Open from 9 AM to 5 PM (7 PM in summers), try visiting during the evening to watch the mosque's beautiful lighting against the dark sky

This massive market is made up of a network of indoor souks (smaller marketplaces) and peddler-lined lanes. They sell everything from handmade carpets and leather goods to jewellery and trinkets, including the popular nazar evil eye ornaments. Since it's located near the narrow Bosporus Strait where the waters of the Black Sea meet the inland Sea of Marmara — it was historically a main point of arrival for trade ships which made this a hot spot for shoppers.

Best Time To Visit: Open from 9 AM to 7 PM from Monday to Saturday, try to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds

Kilic Ali Pasha Hamam is named after the sailor who commissioned the most famous Ottoman architect. Originally built to serve the Ottoman navy, the idea was that this hammam would still be standing centuries later. It is famous for its magnificent dome, which is possibly the largest among Istanbul's hammams. This is frequently on the must-do list of visitors to Turkey. Hammams usually include a sauna, steam room, full body wash, and massage. There are numerous hammams throughout Istanbul, each offering the traditional Turkish bath and a centuries-old spa experience but this one is extremely famous because of its centuries old architecture.

Best Time To Visit: Open from 8 AM to 11:30 PM

Of course you already know about Cappadocia because of all the hot air balloon images Instagram blessed our feeds with in the past year or two. Cappadocia is a region of central Turkey in the Nevsehir province, and is made up of several small towns and villages. Cappadocia is well-known for its rock formations that blessed it with its fairytale-like scenery formed naturally that includes fairy chimneys, tuff cones and underground cities. Cappadocia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a true natural wonder. While it would be difficult to cover all of the attractions this region is blessed with, here are a few that should definitely not be missed:

Goreme Open Air Museum hosts the most important Byzantine cave churches in the world where the monks and nuns pursued monastic life and this UNESCO World Heritage site is an essential stop on any Cappadocia itinerary. It’s the most popular tourist site in Cappadocia and just a few minutes away from central Goreme, a small town in Cappadocia. 

Best Time To Visit: Open from 8 AM to 7 PM, its best to visit early morning to avoid waiting in queue for the ticket booth. 

If the only motive you have for visiting Cappadocia is to experience the hot-air balloon flight then this spot shouldn't be missed! Visitors can enjoy a broad view of the small town of Goreme, complete with views, fairy chimneys, and cave hotels, from this well-known viewpoint. An excellent location for viewing the sun set or the balloon launch at dawn. Keep in mind that the weather is the only factor affecting the balloon rides. If the weather cancels, the balloon company notifies guests the afternoon before takeoff. Plan your trip around the spring (April to June) and fall (September and October) for the most favourable weather conditions.

Best Time To Visit: During the sunset or sunrise

Thirty minutes by car from Goreme are the remnants of a historic underground city called Derinkuyu Yeralti Sehri. If you don't mind confined spaces, it's quite the adventure. The enormous city is an underground labyrinth of tiny rooms, passageways, and stone steps; most visitors wind up getting lost or turned around while trying to find their way out so it is ideal that you go with a tour guide. Also, try visiting the place post peak hours (afternoon) so that you have the whole place to yourself

Best Time To Visit: Open from 8 AM to 6:15 PM, try visiting one hour after opening or closing.

A massive fairy chimney that has been hollowed out with windows, tunnels, rooms, passageways, and stairs, the rock-cut castle is utterly surreal. The castle is a great place to stop for a quick picture because of its proximity to the main road but visitors who wish to spend more time there will find plenty to see. This is the highest point in Cappadocia so you can climb to the castle's top for breathtaking views of the area around this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Best Time To Visit: Open from 7:00 AM to 8:30 PM. visit during the sunset for an immaculate view

Bodrum’s clubbing scene is one of the best in Turkey which only makes sense since it is the most exclusive part of the Turkish riviera with people willing to spend crazy money on such things but apart from it being a party location, it offers a number of touristy spots and activities that would be up your ally. Do note that Bodrum is a city on the Bodrum Peninsula, stretching from Turkey's southwest coast into the Aegean Sea so the best time to visit it is when you are in the mood to soak some sun and explore the whimsical Turkish riviera in peace.

The most important symbol of Bodrum, it was constructed in the fifteenth century and dedicated to St. Peter by the Rhodesian Knights Hospitallers. It is more akin to a massive complex with multiple exhibitions where you can check out the glass and amphorae gallery, visit the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, and see the remnants of a ship from the fourteenth century. The aerial view of Bodrum is another reason for the large number of visitors. You can get a breathtaking view of the sea, the marina, and the lovely hills by climbing the Commander Tower.

Best Time To Visit: Open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, the place is always bustling with visitors any time of the day.

In case you're searching for something different to see in Bodrum, visit the nearby Zeki Muren Museum of Art. It was constructed in honour of well-known Turkish singer, composer, and actor Zeki Muren. Furthermore, the museum is housed in the home of a singer. Like Elvis, he is well-known for his contributions to music. Many of his personal items, mementos from his remarkable career, and other items and information that clearly illustrate how Muren came to be known as an icon of contemporary Turkish music are on display at the museum. Although it's not everyone's cup of tea, many people will find value in visiting this museum.

Best Time To Visit: Open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, the museum is usually not overcrowded so you can visit at any time.

The ancient white-stone windmills in Bodrum are among the must-see locations. They have been standing for more than three centuries in a beautiful location halfway between Bodrum and Gumbet. The windmills themselves might not excite you but the stunning view makes is totally worth the hustle. This area is a must-see due to the breathtaking panorama that emerges from the mountains. One one hand, you can take in the stunning views of St. Peter's Castle and Bodrum from here and of the Gumbet Bay is on the other

Best Time To Visit: Open 24 hours but its best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Black Island, also known as Karaada, is a tiny outcrop near the harbour in Bodrum where there is a cave with mineral springs ideal for bath-warm plunges. It smells strongly of sulphur, like most thermal pools do, but a quick splash and a good slather of orange mud is supposed to work wonders for skin ailments. The only other thing on the island is a restaurant by the water where you can grab a quick lunch before continuing; you can arrange to be taken to Karaada by private boat or as part of many Bodrum boat trips.

Best Time To Visit: Open 24 hours but most boat tours start around 10 AM  and return at 6 PM so plan accordingly.

Beautiful beaches and outdoor activities are among Antalya's top attractions, as are a sizable number of important historical sites. It's a year-round getaway with hot, sunny summers and mild winters, so there's never a bad time to visit this quaint city on the stunning Turquoise Coast of the nation. As far as the touristy spots are concerned, here are the ones you must visit:

The main entrance to Kaleiçi, Antalya's picturesque Old Town, is the unmistakable Hadrian's Gate, easily one of the most iconic spots in the entire city. Constructed in AD 130 to honour Emperor Hadrian's visit to the city. The gate, which is a part of the world's best-preserved Hellenistic and Roman town walls, has three massive towers and three marble arches. As you walk beneath the gateway, you will notice some incredibly detailed sculptures there, but some of the most striking carvings are up at the ceiling.

Best Time To Visit: Open 24 hours. its best to visit in the earl hours of the day or evening when the sun isn't there as the structure gets heated pretty quickly.

Antalya's Old Town (Kaleiçi) is undeniably charming and fascinatingly historic, making it one of the city's top attractions. Savour the distinctive Ottoman houses as you meander through the winding, cobblestoned streets. Amidst the sea of white-washed buildings and unique terracotta roofs, you will find a variety of stores, galleries, eateries, and boutique hotels. The Old Town is filled with charming squares that feature historical monuments. Make sure to locate the famous Saat Kulesi, a clock tower dating back to the 19th century with rugged stone walls. As you stroll around, you'll be able to see it clearly in the Old Town skyline.

Best Time To Visit: Open 24 hours, visit round the clock as the streets are always bustling.

Aspendos, an ancient Greco-Roman city, is a great example of Turkish history, especially its amazing Roman theatre. Constructed in AD 155, the magnificent theatre has undoubtedly withstood the test of time. Its nearly 100-meter height was intended to accommodate 12,000 spectators for the gladiator matches that were going to take place there. You can walk around and explore the theatre for a break from the bustling city.

Best Time To Visit: Open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, you can visit it any time of the day as its never overcrowded.

Republic Square, located in the centre of Antalya, is the ideal place to begin your explorations of the city. Large-scale public gatherings and festivities are held here but it's also a great spot to relax and people-watch on regular days when you just want to chill around. The Ataturk Monument which honours Kemal Ataturk, the founder of Turkey, is the square's main feature. From the square, you can stroll over to the well-known Yivli Minare Mosque for even better panoramic views of the city, or you can enjoy the fountains dancing in the sun or even the gorgeous views down to the marina below.

Best Time To Visit: Open 24 hours so you can pretty much visit it any time of the day.