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Turkey

Turkey

Continent

Asia and Europe

Best States to Visit

  • Antalya
  • Mugla
  • Aydin
  • Konya
  • Gaziantep

Best Cities to Visit

  • Instanbul
  • Ankara
  • Izmir
  • Antalya
  • Bursa

Size

783,562 KM2

Population

84,339,067

GDP

$719,537

Spending Budget

$500 - $600

Famous For

  • Tea
  • Historical importance

Best Time to Visit

  • June
  • July
  • August
  • September

History

The historical backdrop of the Turks extends over 4000 years. Turks originally lived in Central Asia around 2000 BC. Afterwards, they got scattered, settled in numerous states and domains within an immense land zone of Asia and Europe. These realms incorporated The Great Hun Empire (built up during the 3 B.C.), the Göktürk Empire (552-740), the Uygur Empire (741-840), the Avar Empire (6-9 Century A.D.), the Hazar Empire (5-10 Century A.D), the Great Seljuk Empire (1040-1157), and numerous others.The Ottomans caught Constantinople in 1453, during the rule of Sultan Mehmet II (1451-1481), The fall of the Byzantine Empire denoted the end of the Middle Ages and the start of the New Age.Under the initiative of Mustafa Kemal—later came to be known as Ataturk or "Father of Turks"—Turkey became a republic on October 29, 1923 As president for a long time, until his passing in 1938, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk presented an expansive scope of changes in the political, social, legitimate, monetary, and social circles that were essentially unequalled in other nations.It was a revolutionary at its time and even today, to align an overwhelmingly Muslim country with Western progress and widespread qualities.

Present Day

With a fine blend of Oriental and European tastes, Turkey- the Land of Crescent Moon fascinates the world with its stories of the bygones and heritage sites. The place is crafted with architectural brilliance and reminiscence of the Ottoman empire. Air scented with exhilarating vineyards; the land has got to tell tales of two worlds. Turkey is the only nation who claims residence of two continents-Asia and Europe, on either side of the Bosphorus water stretch. Home to one of the oldest civilizations, Turkey has been the muse for several significant artistic civilisations like ancient Greece and Byzantine. The place still intrigues millions with its sun-kissed beaches and exotic cuisines served by warm welcoming hands. One can find everything for a surprise to start looking into flights to this amazing destination. From the Mesolithic temple Göbekli Tepe to Gallipoli- the World War I battlefield, Turkey is home to 13 spots labelled as UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. With its turquoise blue beeches, charming coastal towns, busy streets with over 4000 shops and spine-chilling adventurous spots Turkey ranks 6th position among the most visited destination in the world!Life in Turkey began even before the Constantine rule. The place is home to early species of homo sapiens, who cast off their itinerant way of life and got settled in Çatalhöyük.

Future

First, Turkey aims to achieve all EU membership conditions and become an influential EU member state by 2023. Second, it will continue to strive for regional integration, in the form of security and economic cooperation. Third, it will seek to play an influential role in regional conflict resolution. Fourth, it will vigorously participate in all global arenas. Fifth, it will play a determining role in international organizations and become one of the top 10 largest economies in the world. To achieve them, Turkey must make progress in all directions and in every field, take an interest in every issue related to global stability, and contribute accordingly. For tourism , it wants to become the fifth largest tourist destination , host 50 million visitors and obtain US$50 billion of tourism revenue.
Must Visit Places ------------

Bahia sophia

Under the preservation of UNESCO, this heritage site is looked upon as a treasury of ancient knowledge. Most of the places in Istanbul have witnessed a significant religious merger. And Hagia Sophia, a 6th century church which was refurbished by the Ottoman Turks as a mosque and later secularized has high significance in today’s time.

Ephesus

If you’re looking for one of the best places to visit in Ankara, then Ephesus should be your topmost choice. It is an ancient Roman city port where people sailed to trade the exotic fruits and spices, and it played an important role in spreading Christianity in the first century.

Kabak Bay

Kabak bay is the shore by the Lycia village. Tourists can reach here using the dolmus, taxi or car in about an hour from Ölüdeniz. There aren’t any shops or ATM’s around the vicinity. A visit to the Kabak is an escape from city life. Visitors are generally seen sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling and relaxing by the beach.

Aspendos

Situated by the river Eurymedon this ancient city of Antalya is famous for its theatre which dates back to the 2nd century. The wide dramatic structure of this historic location with the sky high walls and the open view captivates the audience. You can make a visit to this theatre or even get lucky to watch a ballet performance if you book a ticket in advance during your visit.

Topkapi palace

The Topkapi palace is one of the wonderful places to visit in Turkey. The Topkapi palace gives a glimpse of the royal lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans. This palace was the main residence of the Turks during the 15th - 16th century, and was later transformed into a museum in 1924. Today, the palace-museum has a number of grand rooms and chambers on display.

Sumela Monestry

Constructed back in the 4th century, Sumela Monastery is one of the world’s oldest monasteries. Situated outside Trabzon city, this beautiful monastery sits atop the majestic Zigana Mountain. Exhibiting a brilliant architectural design and dedicated to Virgin Mary, Sumela Monastery attracts spiritual seekers as well as architecture buffs.

Mount Nemrut

Lying in Eastern Turkey, the breathtaking Mount Nemrut happens to be the monumental abode of King Antiochus I Theos of the Kingdom of Commagene. Considered to be the world’s 8th wonder, this place is packed with magnificent statues of King Antiochus I Theos and various Persian and Greek gods

Pamukkale

Literally translating to “cotton castle” in English language, Pamukkale is famous all over the world for its mesmerizing cotton-look terraces. Lying in the southwestern part of Turkey, Pamukkale flaunts pure white terraces, which make it’s slope appear like a snowfield set amidst the lush landscape.

Basilica cistern

A cistern is an underground reservoir system to store and supply filtered water. The iconic Basilica cistern is one such which was constructed in the 532 to store and filter water for the Palace of Constantinople and the neighboring places. Presently, visitors have access to two of the gates of the cistern.

Bosphorus cruise

As mentioned, Istanbul interestingly is the city spread across two continents, Asia and Europe. And so, a cruise ride is one activity you should surely add to your itinerary. There are multiple packages that come with hop-in-hop-out options to explore the palaces, mosques and more along the way.

Prince's Island

Prince’s islands is a set of nine islands out of which Büyükada, Burgazada, Heybeliada and K?nal?ada are accessible to tourists. To reach the prince islands, board a ferry or IOD from Taksim or Kabata, it will take around 50 mins - 100 mins to arrive at your destination depending upon the boat you sail.

Galata tower

Galata tower is the oldest of Istanbul. Constructed as a watch tower, it is one of the places to see in Turkey. The observation deck of the tower is the best place to enjoy the panoramic view of the city. Moreover, the multistoried tower houses a luxury restaurant which serves authentic Turkish food that you can enjoy while overlooking the gorgeous city view.

Blue mosque

One of the most visited tourist places in Turkey is this Blue Mosque of Istanbul. The mesmerizing blue tiled architecture of the mosque is a visual delight and a picture perfect location. The mosque is open to visitors (both men and women).

Istanbul Archeological Museum

Established during the 19th century, Istanbul archaeological museum is the first museum built in Turkey. A wide historic collection of the coins, artifacts, war equipment, day to day items of the Mesopotamians, Ottoman Turks, Egyptians and more are displayed here.

Chota church

This medieval church was formerly a Byzantine Greek Orthodox church which was redone as a mosque during the time of the Ottoman Turks. However, the church was secularized and renovated as a museum in 1948. Today, the museum has preserved its historic architectural value by restoring the finest Byzantine mosaic work and frescos dating back to the 4th century.

Grand Bazaar

Strolling across the bazaar street is one of the tourist experiences you shouldn’t miss during your visit to Istanbul. Grand bazaar is one of the oldest and biggest market places in the city. Typical Turkish items are spread across here, with the shopkeepers calling out for your attention.

Taksim Square

Taksim Square is the busiest city centre boulevard of Istanbul. The square has a prominent monument of the Republic crafted by the famous sculptor Pietro Canonica in memory of the Turkish War of Independence. The pedestrian of the main city center entertains you with high-end brands, shopping centers and many restaurants.

Hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia

The hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia lets you undergo great fun and adventure with your loved ones by taking a delight balloon flight session over the valley of Cappadocia. Spend relaxing time, seeing charming scenes of the entire spot from above the sky.

Kaymakli underground city

Built under the hill called Citadel of Kaymakli, a visit to this underground city is a mind beguiling experience for the tourists. Four floors of this charming underground heritage town are open to visitors and is a must see place in Turkey. Although there are a number of such towns found across all of Turkey, Kaymakli underground city is the widest discovered yet.

Ihlara valley

Ihlara valley is a canyon situated near Mount Hasan and Mount Melendiz (two of the volcanoes of Cappadocia), said to be formed thousands of years ago by the Melendiz river. Enjoy some soothing time by the river, walking on some fresh grass, enjoying the sight of fluttering butterflies and sheep.

Devrent Valley

Devrent valley is an interesting place to visit in Turkey. The valley is famous for its lunar landscape and picturesque rock formations. Tourists enjoy visiting the valley and posing with the structures as per their imaginations. While one looks like a baby to some, it looks like a lady to a few others.

Red rose valley

One of the popular tourist attractions of Turkey is the Red Rose Valley. The rock valley appears in shades of pink throughout the day. It is indeed a mesmerizing sight. This tourist place of Turkey is also popular as a photoshoot spot among the social media enthusiasts

Goreme open air museum

This tourist place of Turkey is a must visit spot of Cappadocia. It is a vast open air site with a number of refectories placed side by side. Artistically raised with various frescoes all over, this museum houses many churches in its vicinity. Churches such as the Apple church, St. Barbara church, Snake church, Dark church and so on with different themes and stories engraved in the frescoes are engrossing.

Pasabag

Situated on the Zelve road of Cappadocia is Pasabag. The area has a number of erected mushroom shaped earth pillars with fairy chimneys. It is believed that the hermits resided in these chimneys and a chapel dedicated to St. Simeon, one of the hermits, has also been made here.

Uchisar castle

Uchisar castle is one of the famous tourist attractions of Turkey to head to with your lover or a friend. Back in the day, this castle was as important as vigilant 8. The castle has many small rooms and is connected within by tunnels and stairs which is a fun way to explore this heritage.