An inspired trip to Turkey đŸ‡čđŸ‡·

 
Photo by: Mavi in Cappadocia

Photo by: Mavi in Cappadocia

 

This week we’ve got a treat as tasty as Turkish delight: tips and inspiration on traveling in the Republic of Turkey! 

This is a fascinating destination steeped in thousands of years of history and one of our co-founders’ favorite places to visit! We’ll introduce you to some of the beauty and wonders that are Turkey, point you in the direction of some must-see destinations, and throw in some tips and recommendations.

Check out our two dozen local Turkey photographers spread across this tantalizing country and get ready for Turkish experiences and memories.

HoƟ geldiniz! Welcome to Turkey!

Turkey is renowned as a place where “East meets West” and a “crossroads of civilizations.” 

The vast country lies on two continents, with the great city of Istanbul straddling a stretch of the Bosporus or the Strait of Istanbul. The land on the western side of the river (Thrace) lies in Europe while the eastern side of the river (Anatolia) in Asia. Hence, a literal meeting of East and West!

Because of its position, the Bosporus has been strategic to trade and civilizations for millennia. Connecting the Black Sea with the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas beyond, it was a magnet to the empires of Greece, Rome, the Byzantines, and finally, the Ottoman Empire, under which all manner of wonders passed through Turkey! 

Sights, sounds, smells...and flavors too!

There is so much to experience in Turkey that we can only scratch the surface here. But we hope that these few intriguing facts will captivate and inspire you to head there soon!

 
Photo by: Mavi in Cappadocia

Photo by: Mavi in Cappadocia

 

All seasons and all landscapes...at once

Turkey is a mountainous country rimmed in coastlines of stunning beaches, from the Black Sea to the Mediterranean. The country has everything from snow-capped peaks to etched canyons, monumental pillars of rock to a vast plateau. 

This means there’s really no bad time to visit. In general, summer months are the hottest, winter can be especially cold in the mountains, and spring and fall are considered the times to visit for the most perfect weather with the fewest crowds.

Mosques, bazaars, and ruins

One way centuries of history expresses itself most beautifully and profoundly is through the buildings and structures it leaves behind. In Turkey, these are rich, plentiful, and impressive. 

In the Muslim country of Turkey, you’ll see and experience some of the most incredible mosques in the world. Save space in your luggage for the unique souvenirs you’ll discover in Turkey’s many bazaars, dating back centuries. Finally, be prepared to visit and relive the past in the extensive Roman and Greek ruins found throughout the land.

Be sure to read through our top destinations below to find out where you can visit these fascinating places.  

Turkish breakfast, Turkish tea, and everything in between

The cuisine in Turkey is an experience in and of itself. The flavors have been influenced by the many cultures that have come to make up Turkish people, as well as the country’s size and landscape. 

Everyone who visits must sit down to at least one Turkish breakfast consisting of dozens of dishes containing everything from meats and cheeses, bread and olives, honey, and hummus. It’s an experience you’ll want to repeat again and again.

And while Turkish coffee is well-known, Turkish tea is an institution and is part of the daily fiber of life. Offering tea is the people’s way of showing hospitality and friendship, and travelers should be prepared to accept many cups throughout their journey! 

Street cats, whirling dervishes, and Hammans

You’ll inevitably notice the free-roaming cats and dogs throughout the country. These animals are often very friendly and well-cared for by the communities. And if you haven’t heard of the incredible Whirling Dervishes, this moving meditation that is part of the Sufi tradition, is a ceremony you’ll most definitely want to attend given the opportunity. Finally, everyone who visits Turkey should experience a hammam, or traditional Turkish spa, where you’ll be taken through the relaxing ritual of heated rooms, massages, splashes of cool water, and scrubbing. 

 
Photo by: Valerie in Miami

Photo by: Caner in Istanbul

 

Travel tips:

  • Carry cash - ATMs may not always work, even in the big cities

  • Be prepared to unplug - Wifi can be spotty throughout the country

  • Check on Visa requirements to enter the country

  • Accept the tea when it’s offered - it’s a sign of hospitality and friendship

  • Haggle at the markets - it’s expected!

  • Learn a little bit of Turkish, even just hello and thank you - it’s appreciated.

  • Learn a little about the history - it will enrich your trip

  • Read some Rumi poetry or listen to some Zeki MĂŒren on the flight over

  • Dress respectfully - Turkey is a secular country but also very religious

Top destinations

Antalya

A large resort city along Turkey’s “Turquoise Coast” of the Mediterranean, this is where you come for a sundrenched combination of old and new. Yachts and luxury hotels line the city’s world-famous beaches, while old neighborhoods like Kaleiçi will immerse you in history found in its Old Harbor, the “fluted minaret,” and Hadrian’s Wall. If you don’t get your fill of all things ancient at the Antalya Archaeological Museum, the city offers easy access to the breathtaking Roman ruins of Termessos, Perge, Aspendos, and Olympos.

Ankara

The cosmopolitan capital of Turkey is a cultural mecca nestled in central Anatolia. It hosts incredible festivals and is home to the State Opera and Ballet as well as the Presidential Symphony Orchestra. Explore the city’s parks, museums, and mosques, and above the city, the fort-like Ankara Castle, as well as Anitkabir, the mausoleum of Kemal Ataturk, Turkey’s celebrated and beloved first president. If you’re after something quirky or perfect for kids, head to Wonderland Eurasia, a theme park just outside the city.

Bursa

This large city in the northwest of Turkey delivers on an epic, historic scale. Just over two hours from Istanbul it was the first major capital of the Ottoman Empire. Here in the shadow of Mount Uludağ lies a city of parks and trees, as well as the Grand Bazaar, the Green Tomb of the Sultan Mehmed I, the Old City Walls, and the Grand Mosque. Just 20 minutes away is the traditional Ottoman village of Cumalikizik, while the ancient and famous city of Nicea is an easy day trip. 

Ephesus

Actually an ancient city near Selçuk, Ephesus is the excavated remains of thousands of years of living, all the way back to the Greek and Roman Empires. This is a must-visit destination for anyone who has ever wanted to immerse themselves in history, to feel what it’s like to walk the paved streets, or visit the houses of ancient civilizations. The list of sights goes on and on: the Temple of Hadrian, Library of Celsus, Curetes Street, and the Great Theater of Ephesus, to name a few. 

 
Photo by: Alice in Miami

Photo by: Ugur in Istanbul

 

Cappadocia

 A land of plateaus and canyons, “fairy chimneys” and hot air balloons, red sunrises, and cave dwellings, this is the part of Turkey to lose yourself in dreams, romance, and its haunting landscape. Take walks amidst the rock formations of the Valley of Love, explore the churches and monuments of Goreme National Park, and watch the sunset in Rose Valley. Early birds will enjoy a Turkish breakfast on the balcony of their cave hotel or an early morning balloon ride over the moonscape.  

Bodrum

A city of dual aspects, like the views of the Aegean Sea from its twin bays, and the traditional boat bobbing beside the superyacht, Bodrum is both a jewel of a resort and a treasure trove of history. Its white-washed, red-roofed buildings surround beaches and clear waters making for a relaxing getaway. At the same time, you can walk the ruins of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, or admire its scavenged stonework that is now part of Bodrum Castle. 

Alacati

A gem of a destination that has something for everyone. Located on the ÇeƟme Peninsula jutting into the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea, it is a picturesque place with stone houses encased in flowers and trimmed in colorful windows and doors. Come for the winemaking and windsurfing, the beaches and markets, the castle and cafes. As an added bonus, the Greek island of Chios is only a short ferry ride and makes a perfect day trip!

Istanbul

Did you think we forgot this epic city? Not a chance. We left it for last on purpose.

Istanbul is a legendary city, filled with magnificent mosques, bustling bazaars, mouthwatering cuisine, and incredible cultural experiences. You could visit this city countless times and still not take in all its wonders. It is truly where East meets West as the Bosporus flows right through it, dividing city and country into European and Asian. Take a cruise down the strait, drink in coffee houses, listen to the call to prayer between the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, share tea with shopkeepers, and stay in a hotel with a view from which to soak it all in. Istanbul is a perfect starting point for a first trip to Turkey and an ideal launchpad for exploring the rest of the country. In fact, it’s incredibly easy and affordable to catch a flight to any of the other incredible areas we’ve mentioned. Roundtrip tickets range from just $10 to $60.

Bonus: some of our co-founders’ favorite restaurants, spots, and views around Istanbul:

 
 
Travel GuideShelley Masinimiami, miami creatives, miami beach, miami photographer, miami 2021, summer in miami, fall in miami, spring in miami, winter in miami, travel tips of miami