All Around Turkey

East meets West in a vibrant crescendo of history, culture, and cuisine, making Istanbul an unmissable destination.

Sitting on the European bank of the mighty Bosphorus, this 19C palace is an extravagant mix of styles and lavish decor.

One of Istanbul's top sights, the magnificent interior of this former basilica is laden with fine Byzantine mosaics and designs.

Get lost hunting for treasures and trinkets among the bustling market stalls of the Grand Bazaar - truly a world of its own!

A fairy tale in the middle of a modern city, this stunning castle is enveloped in legend and history, and took 500 years to build.

Escape Istanbul's busy streets on these idyllic islands, dotted with picturesque villas, historic buildings, and lovely beaches.

The perfect destination for a day trip, this fresh water lake is a gem of natural beauty and offers many fun activities for all ages.

Still in use today, this majestic 17C mosque is known for its sea of grand domes, six slender minarets and beautiful interior.

Soak up centuries of history as you explore the old town's lively streets, historic mosques, palaces and thronging markets.

A must for art-lovers, with exhibitions on Turkish modern art, as well as works from some of the world's best contemporary artists.

The hip, lively district of Beyoglu is the place to go for fantastic eats, drinks, shopping and trendy guesthouses.

A wonderful national park, with a unique ecosystem made up of marshlands, swamps, lakes and coastal sand dunes.

A favorite retreat of locals, this nature park engulfs gorgeous forests and a small village with a fascinating history.

Art-lovers and historians should head here for the fine collections of Ottoman calligraphy, paintings and historic artifacts.

Sitting beautifully atop one of Istanbul's hills, this majestic 16C mosque is one of the city's most revered.

A wander through this cavernous underground cistern, built in the 6C for the Byzantine emperor, is an atmospheric experience.

A waterside district, which has long been a melting pot of culture and religion, now hosts great galleries, cafes and nightlife.

Dating to 8C BC, this city boasts a variety of well-preserved Roman ruins, as well as remnants from the Ottoman and other periods.

Known for its pottery-making industry, this historic lakeside town also boasts ancient sites and recreational activities.

The Ottoman craftwork of the 17C imperial pavilion has recently been restored to its former beauty.

Taking some 60 years to complete, the domed exterior of this 17C mosque has since become a fixture of the city's skyline.

Stunning ancient coffins, statues and other artifacts reveal the magnificent artistic and cultural heritage of the city and region.

Once part of the palace gardens, this large park in the Yildiz Quarter offers shady pathways, picnic spots and peaceful greenery.

Now a museum, this 11C church houses some of the world's finest examples of Byzantine frescoes and mosaic work.

The lush greenery, placid ponds, and colorful flowers of this city park make it popular with locals and visitors alike.

Wander peacefully and picnic among the flowers and trees of these former palatial gardens, now one of the city's oldest parks.

Get a taste for Turkey's fine architectural heritage through the vast array of scaled-down models at this open-air attraction.

Delve into Istanbul's cultural heart in a district overflowing with history, architectural gems and culinary delights.

Tucked among a bustling shopping district, this small 16C mosque is a fine example of Ottoman craftsmanship and architecture.

Extending for some 6.5km the restored city walls were originally built in the 5C to protect Constantinople and its people.

Stroll along this peaceful, pedestrianised street, lined with tastefully restored wooden Ottoman houses from the 19-20C.

Often overlooked, Turkey's second largest city and capital is dynamic, cultured and teeming with lively spots to explore.

Culture, cafes and modern art from across Europe are fast making this one-time train depot the cultural hotspot of the city.

One of the world's largest, this young but impressive mosque has become an emblem for Ankara.

Get a taste for Turkey's rich and complex history through the artifacts of this excellent museum.

Sitting atop a rocky mound, the city's historic center is a great place to wander, keeping an eye out for ancient relics and ruins.

Stroll through this rejuvenated historical district, admiring the traditional architecture and browsing in shops.

Get a taste for Turkey's rich artistic history through the fine collection of paintings and sculptures here.

A must for most Turks, the impressive mausoleum of modern Turkey's founder is also home to museums and a huge courtyard.

This 15C mosque was built to honor a Muslim religious figure and poet. It is one of the most admired in the city.

Head to this peaceful park to escape the bustle of the city center, relax and admire the abundance of greenery and fountains.

An engaging industrial museum with exhibits on everything from transport and science to carpets and computers.

A small but rewarding museum for anyone intrigued by ancient relics, some over 5000 years' old.

A pleasant patch of inner-city green, famous for the swans for which it's named.

For those interested in seeing an opera or ballet performance in Ankara, this is the place to go.

At the center of the city, this is a great place to stroll among Turkish families, people watch, and soak up the local atmosphere.

The medieval citadel sits perched on a rocky peak at the heart of the old town, with some good views of the city.

A must for anyone eager to discover more about the traditions and culture of the Turkish people.

Out towards the airport, this park is packed full of fun attractions, including an Olympic pool, restaurants and a huge pond.

A striking monument erected in the 1970s in memory of the Hattian civilization, the earliest known empire of the region.

Sure to bring out the kid in anyone, this outdoor museum tracks the development of the steam train through locomotive displays.

Outdoor and indoor pools, water slides, sports and eateries make this a great place for a day of leisure.

A bustling modern city with a somewhat relaxed sea-side feel, Trabzon's architecture is an interesting mixture of old and new.

A fort dating to the 21C BC, this construction once comprised three castles, now boasting nice ruins with great views of the city.

Dating to the 13C, this ancient church now houses the St. Sophia museum, and has also served as a mosque.

Stroll through this historic town, admiring the old architecture, and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.

A wonderful Ottoman mosque dating to the 16C, featuring marvelous ornamentation and honoring the mother of Sultan Selim I.

Famed for its uncanny rock formations shaped like mushroom-topped fairy chimneys, this valley offers a glimpse into another world.

Blessed with beautiful and varied verdure, this national park is most-known for the world famous Sumela Monastery.

This ancient church is the oldest in the city and probably dates to around the 6C-7C.

Escape the bustle of the city at this scenic park, where you can stroll the paths, or relax on the sprawling lawns with a picnic.

A museum home to archeological and ethnographic exhibitions which depict the history and culture of Trabzon and the region.

Ruins of a 15C Armenian monastery, located on a hill and offering excellent views of the surrounding area.

Hike through the beautiful forest to reach this ancient monastery, situated high in the cliffs overlooking the Altindere valley.

Former capital of the Hittite Empire, this archaeological site boasts two sphinx, several fine reliefs, and other interesting ruins.

A museum dedicated to the life of Ataturk, who stayed in this lodge on one of his visits, after which it was given to him as a gift.

The highest summit in its mountain range, Mount Erciye is truly awe-inspiring in its beauty and is popular with winter sports fans.

A spectacular little known multilevel subterranean monastery, featuring magnificently preserved frescoes from the Byzantine era.

Referred to as "The City of Museums," Gaziantep is also known for making the best sweets in the country, especially pistachio baklava.

Wander through Gaziantep, admiring the beautiful old architecture, and follow your nose to one of the many amazing bakeries in town.

Visitors come to Gaziantep to visit the world's largest mosiac museum, home to some of the most special ancient mosaics in the world.

Also known as the Kale, the history of this hilltop castle is unknown. Today it houses statues and historic exhibits.

Escape the bustle of the city in this beautiful garden, where visitors can relax and learn about the unique plant-life found here.

Famed for the remnants of enormous statues on its summit surrounding a 1C BC tomb, this 2,134m mountain is a thrilling experience.

Take a boat ride around this former Roman stronghold, and explore its perfect blend of natural beauty and ancient fortifications.

Walk through this historic covered bazaar, where visitors can watch Turkish coppersmiths practice their traditional trade.

Learn about how the development of civilization affected the development of toys this beautiful and fun museum.

Set in an old Ottoman house, this museum exhibits Gaziantep's role in the Turkish War of Independence, the siege of Anatep.

The prefect museum for food lovers, where visitors learn about Gaziantep's renowned culinary culture.

An ancient archaeological site, famed for the "beehive" mud houses, traditional in the area for at least the past 3,000 years.

A significant archaeological site, home to pillar structures that date to the 10 millennium BCE and boast lovely symbolic reliefs.

Located in a 200 year old stone house, this museum depicts local history and culture through preserved rooms and everyday objects.

With collections dating as far back as the paleolithic era, this excellent museum exhibits archaeological artifacts from the region.

From giraffes, to rhinos, to ostriches, this amazing zoo promises a fun day for animal lovers of all ages.

An interactive museum dedicated to the city's many crafts, ranging from baklava baking, shoemaking, and coppersmithing.

Although not an easy hike, a visit to these ruins promise magnificent views of the area and a unique glimpse into local history.

Overlooking a beautiful artificial lake, this forested national park is home to remains and reliefs of a 8C BC Hittite fortress.

With a focus on Roman, Byzantium and glass artifacts, this privately owned museum exhibits stunning historic glassware.

Dating to the 13C, this ancient mosque is a local icon, whose minaret can be seen from around the city .

This structure has served several purposes over the centuries, having started out as a church, today it is a mosque.

One of the best preserved castles in the region, this 13C castle is the legacy of the Armenian Kingdom of Cilicia.

Jutting into the sky, this picturesque 12C castle boasts over 40 towers reminiscent of past glories and significant historic events.

One of Turkey's largest cities, Adana is known for its historic sites, charming cafes, and lively atmosphere.

Wander the buzzing streets of this major Turkish city, taking in the historic sites, and relaxing in one of the lovely cafes.

A beautiful large artificial lake, surrounded by beautiful green lawns, charming cafes, and excellent restaurants.

Spend the day relaxing in the sun on the idyllic shores of Adana's beautiful beaches.

Adana's main mosque is covered in marble and gold leaf, and is one of the largest in the region.

Although not an easy hike, a visit to these ruins promise magnificent views of the area and a unique glimpse into local history.

Overlooking a beautiful artificial lake, this forested national park is home to remains and reliefs of a 8C BC Hittite fortress.

Dedicated to the heritage of the Cukurova region, this museum is home to a wealth of artifacts, including coins, jewelry, and more.

A massive landscaped park, home to hundreds of species of trees, bushes, cactuses, and other plants, as well as several ponds.

A beautiful city park, with sprawling green lawns, beautiful flower beds, walking paths, and statues.

Located in a mansion that Anaturk stayed in on a trip to Adana, this museum exhibits the War of Independence and early Turkey.

Tread in the footsteps of ancient Roman settlers, who had first paved this 1C stone road stretching between Cilicia and Capadocia.

Literally named "Heaven" and "Hell," these two caves are a marvelous natural phenomena and home to a 5C subterranean monastery.

The perfect mix of old and new, this busy city boasts ancient architecture and culture, along with a thriving modern university.

Wander through this exciting city, taking in the ancient sites, while enjoying the young university atmosphere.

A unique archaeological museum, home to a wide range of artifacts, including the skeleton of a little girl, jewelry, and pottery.

The prefect place to relax while exploring the city, enjoy this park, home to Japanese architecture and plants.

Learn about the life and works of Persian Sufi mystic Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi at this mausoleum.

A national park in a historically significant region, famed for the Beysehir Lake set in its heart and dotted with over 30 isles.

A wonderful experience for all ages, this science center offers interactive learning activities, a planetarium, a cafe, and more.

Dedicated to the history and culture of the region, this excellent museum is known for its collection of Turkish rugs.

Formerly a Christian basilica, the church itself dates to the 11C, with most of today's design being from the Ottoman period.

Formerly a 13C religiously focused schoolhouse, this ancient building now exhibits a beautiful collection of Seljuk tiles.

Stroll through this charming park, enjoy the greenery and admire the historic sites dotted throughout.

Important to those who appreciate Dervish culture and teachings, this is the final resting place of Rumi's teacher, Semsi Tebrizi.

Now home to the Museum of Stone and Wood Art, this building originally served as a 13C Islamic school.

Constructed in the 20C, this stone house was used as the governor's office and now serves as a museum dedicated to Ataturk.

Dating to the 17C, this double minaret mosque features a mixture of Baroque and traditional Ottoman architecture.

Turkey's largest Mediterranean coastal city is home to some of the country's finest beaches, and is dotted with historic sites.

Antalya's historic heart is a beautiful mix of ancient relics, Ottoman architecture, small hotels, boutique shops and restaurants.

One of Turkey's largest and best museums is an absolute must, helping to convey the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Check out the impressive sand sculptures at this amazing beach-side attraction.

A series of magnificent waterfalls which span a section of the Duden River, the last of which cascades into the Mediterranean.

Hike through a pine forest to reach this 1,000m high city, whose splendid theater and historic relics uphold a unique atmosphere.

Set amidst historically famed regions, this national park offers an exciting variety of outdoor activities and archaeological sites.

The best of Antalya's bustling beaches is just a short hop from the center, offering sun, sea, sand and beach-side bars and cafes.

Check out this huge aquarium for a glimpse of the wild and wonderful creatures that inhabit the world's oceans.

The tower and ruins at this site once formed a Roman temple which went on to play a huge part in the religious history of the city.

The two beautifully renovated buildings that make up this museum house exhibits of the region's artistic and cultural traditions.

Visit these ruins not only for their rich history going back to the 4C BC, but for the wild and beautiful surrounding nature as well.

Comprising ancient archaeological sites, a seashore, and mountains, this national park has something to offer everyone.

Stroll through this large park with fantastic views of the city's ancient harbor and the sparkling seas of the gulf.

This coastal tower is thought to have been built by the Romans and has since been used as a battlement and lighthouse.

The finest architecture from around Turkey can all be seen here in the scaled down models of this open air attraction.

Head to Tunek Tepe for views out over the surrounding hills and Antalya Gulf.

Dating as far back as the 7C BC, this ancient ruined city retains several original Lycian features.

A great national park centered on the 400m-deep canyon, stretching along the Kopru River and famed for its archaeological remains.

At the heart of this city square is a statue of modern Turkey's founder, Ataturk, on horseback.

A 14C mosque known for its distinctive 'fluted' tower that has become an icon of the city.

A beautiful three-arched gate constructed in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian for his visit to the city in 130 AD.

Used by Turkey's first president on visits to the region, this rebuilt house is now a museum in his honor.

Set between two rivers and famed for the nearby Temple of Artemis, this well-known ancient city boasts several interesting ruins.

A fantastic seaside resort, popular for its clear blue beaches, vibrant nightlife, and easy access to spectacular nature.

A slice of paradise, Fethiye has stunning blue waters, pine-covered hills, beautiful bays and a laid back feel.

Stroll among the ruins of the ancient city of Telmessos, dating back over 2000 years, which pepper the historic heart of Fethiye.

Situated beside the harbor, this 2000 year-old open-air Roman theater once allowed for 6000 spectators.

Perhaps Fethiye's best-known site, this large tomb and its striking temple-front were carved into the rocky hillside in 350 BC.

The rolling, tree-covered hills, sumptuous sands and crystal waters of Fethiye's beach will help you forget your woes.

Let your imagination roam as you explore the ruins of this once-thriving city, glimpsing its vibrant past through cracks of time.

Explore the hiking trails surrounding this abandoned village, as well as the 3,000 still standing dilapidated buildings.

The city's museum is largely devoted to Lycian relics from the ancient settlement of Telmessos that once stood here.

Zip round the colorful slides and cool down in the pools of this hotel water park, which promises to be fun for all ages.

Dating to 4C BC, this marvelous tomb boasts intricate ornamental stone carvings, an inner burial chamber, and a few statue ruins.

Framed by magnificent mountains and famous for its beautifully clear water, this natural park is the perfect beach getaway.

Known for its stunning beaches, protected lagoon, and nature reserve, this Turkish town is an idyllic getaway.

Explore these ancient Lycian ruins, which are located along Turkey's longest stretch of uninterrupted beach.

Surrounded by sea and mountains, the large port city of Izmir is becoming known for its lively, forward-thinking cultural scene.

One of the Izmir's main attractions is the lively city bazaar, with its abundance of fine Turkish goods and culinary delicacies.

Wander the streets and take waterfront strolls as you spy out ancient relics and sample the restaurants and bars of the city.

Relics from millennia of history in the Izmir Gulf can be seen at this museum, including ornate coffins and ancient statues.

Built in the 16C, the city center's largest mosque has some interesting interior design features typical of Izmiri style.

Turkey's most famous historic site, this ancient city dates to 10C BC and is home to several illustrious archaeological findings.

A quaint little town boasting an authentic atmosphere and fantastic nightlife, Alacati also offers many water sport activities.

Home to a huge range of animals from around the world, Izmir's wildlife park is fun day out for adults and children alike.

Located in an exquisite early-20C building, the gallery has a range of changing exhibitions from Turkish and international artists.

A blue-tiled mosque with examples of both Iznik and Izmir tiles adoring its pretty interior and good views over the local area.

Explore the ruins of an ancient Roman settlement, built for Alexander the Great and rebuilt in 2C after a huge earthquake.

Comprised of a lush forested peninsula and a large delta, this national park is one of the most biologically diverse parks in Turkey.

Saturated with history and mythology, this national park is full of animal, lush verdure, and spectacular mountain routes.

A museum showcasing historical art and craftwork from the region, including treasures from the Roman and Neolithic eras.

Take a break from sightseeing for a fun few hours on the rides and fairground attractions at the city's mini theme park.

Built in 1901, the historical clock tower that sits at the center of bustling Konak square was designed in an ornate Ottoman style.

Head to the bustling historic district of Alsancak for great shops, eateries, bars, city squares, museums and hotels.

Perfect for nature lovers who favor the waterside, this resort town boasts gorgeous beaches and spectacular views of the region.

The peaceful pace of life and pleasant whitewashed abodes of this old Aegean fishing town make it a popular getaway spot.

Head here and take the red brick elevator up to the hilltops for great views out over the gulf and the sprawling coastal town.

Dating to the 17C, this beautiful church is Izmir's oldest Christian house of worship, and boasts a stunning ornate interior.

Blending Greek, Roman, and Byzantine architecture, this ancient city boasts a theater with remarkable friezes, a library, and more.

Believed to be the house where the Virgin Mary spent the last days of her life, this site is a popular pilgrimage site.

Now a bustling industrial metropolis, the Ottoman empire's first major capital is full of history, markets, parks and attractions.

Wander the historic streets of Bursa, haggle at old bazaars, dig in to Turkish treats and discover treasures of the Ottoman era.

A peaceful complex containing tree-lined gardens, historical graves and the mosque of Sultan Murat II who ruled for 30 years.

The large botanical garden offers a peaceful place to wander among flora from around Turkey and the world.

Built for the Ottoman Empire's fifth sultan, this hexagonal mausoleum stands among leafy cypress trees.

A great national park located in Western Anatolia, boasting a wide diversity of flora and fauna species, as well as a rich habitat.

A village comprised of 270 architecturally significant houses dating to the Ottoman Empire, home to a wonderful ethnography museum.

Completed in 1399, this huge mosque is an impressive and lasting monument to the beginnings of the Ottoman empire.

A grand 14C bazaar which harks back to the days when Bursa was one of the last stops on the ancient Silk Road.

Erected in honor of the sultan's son-in-law, this 14C mosque has since been rebuilt in a baroque Ottoman style.

A significant early-Ottoman mosque, built by Orhan, one of of the founders of the Ottoman Empire.

The perfect destination for a day trip, this fresh water lake is a gem of natural beauty and offers many fun activities for all ages.

Dubbed "The Bird Paradise", this park is a thriving migration stop for birds and is the perfect destination for bird-watching.

East meets West in a vibrant crescendo of history, culture, and cuisine, making Istanbul an unmissable destination.

Sitting on the European bank of the mighty Bosphorus, this 19C palace is an extravagant mix of styles and lavish decor.

One of Istanbul's top sights, the magnificent interior of this former basilica is laden with fine Byzantine mosaics and designs.

Get lost hunting for treasures and trinkets among the bustling market stalls of the Grand Bazaar - truly a world of its own!

A fairy tale in the middle of a modern city, this stunning castle is enveloped in legend and history, and took 500 years to build.

Escape Istanbul's busy streets on these idyllic islands, dotted with picturesque villas, historic buildings, and lovely beaches.

The perfect destination for a day trip, this fresh water lake is a gem of natural beauty and offers many fun activities for all ages.

Still in use today, this majestic 17C mosque is known for its sea of grand domes, six slender minarets and beautiful interior.

Soak up centuries of history as you explore the old town's lively streets, historic mosques, palaces and thronging markets.

A must for art-lovers, with exhibitions on Turkish modern art, as well as works from some of the world's best contemporary artists.

The hip, lively district of Beyoglu is the place to go for fantastic eats, drinks, shopping and trendy guesthouses.

A wonderful national park, with a unique ecosystem made up of marshlands, swamps, lakes and coastal sand dunes.

A favorite retreat of locals, this nature park engulfs gorgeous forests and a small village with a fascinating history.