Top 5 Attractions You Need to Visit in Turkey

With its numerous attractions, Turkey is a favorite of people of all ages from all over the world. The number of natural, historical, and cultural beauties in the country is so great that it would probably take us years to list them all. But to keep the list short, we have listed the top five attractions you should visit in Turkey in this article.

1. Topkapi Palace Museum – Istanbul

If you want to see the lifestyle of the Ottoman Dynasty and the administrative center of the empire, Topkapi Palace is waiting for you. Located in the Historical Peninsula of Istanbul with all its splendor, the palace was the residence of the Sultans as well as the center of administration, education, and art of the empire. Topkapi Palace, which was built between 1460 and 1478 after the conquest of Istanbul by Mehmet the Conqueror, is one of the richest museums in the world today. In addition to sacred relics, treasures, seals, jewelry, and box craftsmanship, the most beautiful examples of inscriptions are exhibited in Topkapi Palace. Besides, the museum is home to the world's best porcelain collection. In the Topkapi Palace Museum, you will not only see valuable pieces, but you will also have the chance to experience the environment in which the people of the palace lived their daily lives. The residence of the sultans for 350 years, Topkapi has hosted countless visitors since it was turned into a museum in 1924.

2. Cappadocia – Nevşehir

Cappadocia, which gives you fascinating moments with its fairy chimneys as soon as you step in, is a favorite of visitors both from Turkey and abroad. Cappadocia offers a visual feast with its atmosphere that combines nature and history. The Cappadocia region emerged when the soft layers formed by the lava and ash erupted by the surrounding volcanoes 60 million years ago were eroded by rain and wind over millions of years. Traditional Cappadocian houses carved into the rocks, pigeon houses, underground cities, and rock hotels are among the trademarks of Cappadocia. Balloon tours, traditional goods shops, and pottery-making experiences await you here. Don't forget to take your camera.

3. Ephesus – Izmir

The legendary Ephesus Ancient City, founded in 6000 BC, is among the Seven Wonders of the World. This mega-ancient city, whose unique architectural works have survived for thousands of years, was inhabited uninterruptedly throughout the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Principalities, and Ottoman Periods. Playing an important role in science, culture, and art, Ephesus also includes the Temple of Artemis, which further increases the importance of the city. The most famous ruin identified with the Ephesus Archaeological Site, the Library of Celsus, which arouses admiration with its enormous columns, is one of the most important libraries of antiquity, after Alexandria and Pergamon. Hadrian's Temple and many other structures are waiting to be seen in Ephesus.

4. Aspendos – Antalya

Antalya's apple of the eye, Aspendos, is an ancient city situated in the Serik district and famous for its theater. Aspendos has the best preserved Roman theater not only in Anatolia but also in the entire Mediterranean. The city was founded by the Achaeans in the 10th century BC and became one of the prosperous cities of the ancient period. The famous theater was built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD. With a capacity of 12,000 people, this well-preserved amphitheater welcomes countless visitors each year. In addition to the theater, the basilica, city ruins, and aqueducts are among the interesting parts of Aspendos. In particular, aqueducts are highly appreciated because they were built with superior engineering skills.

5. Mount Nemrut – Adiyaman

Mount Nemrut, which is a mountain, a monument, and a man-made historical artifact at the same time, is among the must-see attractions in eastern Turkey. Located at a height of 2,150 meters, Mount Nemrut is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The tombs and monumental statues that he had built on the slopes of Mount Nemrut by order of the Commagene King Antiochos I to show his gratitude to the gods and ancestors are still standing in splendor today. Mount Nemrut, one of the most important Hellenistic ruins, hosts 8–10 meters high limestone sculptures. Do not forget to add Mount Nemrut to your list for a unique visual feast.