Top 10 Most Popular Cities in Turkey You Should Add to Your Itinerary
Turkey is one of the world's most visited destinations, renowned for its historical heritage, natural beauty and cultural diversity. Every year, millions of tourists come to Turkey to see Istanbul's historic peninsula, Antalya's azure beaches, Cappadocia's fairy chimneys, the holiday resorts along the Aegean coast and the lush green highlands of the Black Sea. In this article, you will discover Turkey's 10 most visited cities, along with their key features, places to visit, and the best times to visit. So, what are the most famous cities of Turkey? And what are the most visited cities in Turkey? Let's explore the famed cities of Turkey together!
1. Istanbul — The crossroads of the world
Istanbul, which served as the capital of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, is Turkey's most populous city with a population of approximately 16 million. The city's most important feature is the convergence of historical richness and modern life.
The Historic Peninsula is concentrated around Sultanahmet Square. Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, Sultanahmet Mosque and Yerebatan Cistern are all within a few hours' walk of each other, but their depth means you could spend days exploring them. The Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar are shopping centres that carry on the Ottoman trading culture to this day.
The Bosphorus shores are the symbol of Istanbul. You can have breakfast by the sea in Ortaköy, or travel by ferry between Beşiktaş and Üsküdar to experience both Asia and Europe at the same time. The Galata Tower, Pera and Karaköy districts bring together both historical and modern life.
For art lovers, modern art galleries such as Istanbul Modern, Pera Museum, and Arter stand out. In terms of food and drink, the city offers a wide range, from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants. The ideal time to visit is April–May and September–October.
2. Antalya — The city where sun, sea and history meet
Antalya is Turkey's most popular tourist destination on the Mediterranean coast. Its 640-kilometre coastline is dotted with golden beaches and coves. Lara and Konyaaltı offer beach enjoyment both in the city centre and to international standards.
Antalya's historical riches are concentrated in the Kaleiçi district. Ottoman houses, narrow streets, the marina and Hadrian's Gate offer a glimpse into the city's past. Nearby archaeological treasures include the Aspendos Ancient Theatre, the ancient city of Perge and Termessos.
In terms of natural beauty, Antalya offers alternatives such as Düden Waterfall, Kurşunlu Waterfall, and Köprülü Canyon. Rafting, diving, and boat tours are quite popular during the summer months.
The city is famous for its large resort hotels, which welcome millions of tourists every year. However, boutique hotels and guesthouses are also available. Charter flights to Antalya are available from many parts of the world. Summer is the busiest season; spring and autumn are recommended for a more peaceful experience.
3. Muğla — The capital of bays and blue cruises
Muğla boasts an extensive coastline encompassing tourist centres such as Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye and Datça. Together with its districts, it is one of Turkey's most popular destinations for maritime tourism.
Bodrum is renowned for its nightlife, marinas and Bodrum Castle. Ölüdeniz in Fethiye is one of the world's most famous beaches; paragliding from Babadağ offers one of the world's most beautiful views. Marmaris, with its long coastline and bays, is the centre for boat tours. Datça, preserving its natural texture, offers a more peaceful holiday with its tranquil atmosphere.
One of Muğla's most special experiences is the ‘blue cruise’. These sea voyages, undertaken on yachts or gulets, take you to coves that are only accessible by sea. Special spots such as Sedir Island and Cleopatra Beach are frequently visited on these tours.
The region is accessible via Dalaman and Milas–Bodrum airports. The summer months are the busiest, but May and September are ideal for both swimming and enjoying a holiday away from the crowds.
4. Izmir — The heart of the Aegean
Izmir combines its modern urban fabric with its ancient heritage. Strolling along the Kordon promenade in the city centre, sitting in the cafés of Alsancak and shopping in the Kemeraltı Bazaar are must-do activities for visitors. The Clock Tower is the symbol of the city.
Izmir also stands out for its surrounding tourist attractions. Çeşme and Alaçatı are the destinations for those seeking sea and nightlife in the summer months. Seferihisar holds the title of Turkey's first ‘slow city’. Foça and Urla offer a tranquil atmosphere by the sea.
For history lovers, the ancient city of Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary are within a day's reach of Izmir. The Ancient City of Bergama is also one of the region's important cultural stops.
Izmir's cuisine features Aegean herbs, olive oil dishes and seafood. Summer festivals and music events keep the city lively. In terms of transport, Adnan Menderes Airport connects Izmir to Turkey and the world.
5. Aydın — A historical vacation awaits!
Aydın is one of Turkey's leading provinces for both cruise tourism and ancient heritage tourism. Kuşadası is a port of call for large cruise ships. Tours from here to the ancient city of Ephesus attract tens of thousands of tourists every year. Ephesus, with the Temple of Artemis and the Library of Celsus, is one of the most important cities of the ancient world.
Didim is popular for summer holidays with its Altınkum Beach. The Temple of Apollo is also an impressive example of ancient Greek architecture.
Another treasure of Aydın is the ancient city of Aphrodisias, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and represents the pinnacle of Roman sculpture. The ancient cities of Miletus and Priene are also attractive stops for archaeology enthusiasts.
The combination of beach holidays, ancient cities and nature walks makes Aydın unique. While the sea and beaches are crowded in summer, spring offers more suitable conditions for cultural tours. Hotels and guesthouses to suit every budget can be found around Kuşadası and Didim.
6. Nevşehir (Cappadocia) — The heart of a fairy-tale landscape
Nevşehir is the gateway to the world-famous Cappadocia region. The area boasts a fairy-tale appearance, shaped by rain and wind over millions of years following volcanic eruptions, featuring fairy chimneys.
The Göreme Open Air Museum, with its fresco-adorned rock churches, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The underground cities of Kaymaklı and Derinkuyu showcase the living spaces people built underground for safety thousands of years ago. Ürgüp and Avanos are famous for their wine cellars, pottery workshops, and boutique hotels.
One of Cappadocia's most unforgettable experiences is a hot air balloon tour. The sight of hundreds of balloons floating in the sky at sunrise is one of the most photographed images in the world. Ihlara Valley is also ideal for nature walks.
The region can be visited all year round. Spring and autumn are the most suitable seasons for hiking. In winter, the fairy chimneys covered in snow offer a romantic atmosphere. Cave hotels provide visitors with a unique experience.
7. Edirne — The Ottoman Empire's second capital
Edirne, which served as the capital of the Ottoman Empire before Istanbul, is a city rich in history and culture. The city's most important structure is the Selimiye Mosque, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Described by architect Sinan as his ‘masterpiece,’ this mosque is the symbol of Edirne.
Historic bridges, the banks of the Meric River and the Karaağaç region add natural beauty to the city. Monuments such as the Old Palace and the Muradiye Mosque bear traces of the Ottoman period. Edirne's bazaars, especially the covered markets, are important for traditional shopping.
The annual Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival is one of the world's oldest sporting events and adds cultural vibrancy to the city. Edirne cuisine is also renowned for its unique flavours, such as liver tava and almond paste.
Being approximately two hours away from Istanbul makes Edirne ideal for day trips and weekend getaways. Spring and summer are the most enjoyable times to stroll along the riverbank and participate in events.
8. Ankara — Turkey's capital and cultural hub
Although Ankara is known for its political identity, it actually has a multi-layered cultural structure. The city's most visited site is Anıtkabir. Atatürk's mausoleum is visited by millions of people every year.
Culturally, Ankara stands out with the Museum of Anatolian Civilisations. It houses an extensive collection spanning from the Palaeolithic period to Rome, and from the Hittites to the Ottomans. Centres such as the Ethnography Museum and the Painting and Sculpture Museum are also valuable destinations for art enthusiasts.
Ankara Castle is the city's oldest settlement; the surrounding Hamamönü district offers a nostalgic atmosphere with its restored Ottoman houses and cafés. Youth Park, Atatürk Forest Farm and modern shopping centres add a different dynamism to the city.
The capital is an important centre for business tourism and conferences. In addition, it is bustling throughout the year with concerts, theatres and festivals. In terms of transport, Esenboğa Airport offers connections to every part of Turkey.
9. Mardin — Stone architecture and Mesopotamian landscapes
Mardin is one of the most impressive cities in the Southeast Anatolia Region. The city's stone houses, narrow streets and views opening onto the Mesopotamian Plain enchant visitors.
Mardin Grand Mosque, Zinciriye Madrasa and Kasımiye Madrasa are among the city's historical structures. Deyrulzafaran Monastery and Mor Gabriel Monastery bear traces of Syriac culture. This diversity makes Mardin a meeting point for different religions and cultures.
The city offers unique photo opportunities; the golden hue of the stone houses at sunset is particularly worth seeing. The district of Midyat is known for its silverwork and stone mansions.
Mardin's cuisine is quite rich, featuring various kebabs, stuffed ribs, and harire dessert. The best time to visit is spring and autumn; temperatures are quite high in summer. Mardin Airport and roadways are used for transportation.
10. Trabzon — The jewel of the Black Sea
Trabzon is the most visited city in the Black Sea Region, renowned for its natural beauty, historical structures and rich culture. The Sumela Monastery, perched on steep cliffs and boasting a magnificent view, is the symbol of the city.
Uzungöl, with its lake surrounded by forests and wooden houses, is the centre of nature tourism. The highlands, especially Ayder, Haldizen and Karester, are summer retreats with their cool air and lush green nature.
Trabzon's city centre is also rich in history. The Hagia Sophia Mosque, Boztepe and Atatürk Mansion are important places to visit. The city is also known for its Black Sea cuisine: fried anchovies, kuymak (mıhlama), Akçaabat köfte and Trabzon pide are among the region's most famous delicacies.
Trabzon Airport offers direct flights to the city from many locations across Turkey. The summer months are the busiest, but spring and autumn are quieter and more pleasant for nature walks.
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