4 Awesome Places To Visit In Turkey

Turkey is as geographically diverse as it is culturally.

From time immemorial it has been the gateway where east meets west, where religions collide, and cultures converge.

In the west lies the meeting point, the city known by more names than a hardworking prostitute.

On it’s southern coast lies the turquois blue waters of the Mediterranean, where Grecian, Roman, and Egyptian cultures pour in.

On it’s northern coast, the dark blue waters of the Black Sea escort the traders of Slavic Russia.

And to the east, the Persian desert ushers in the riches of greater Asia.

Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in a cultural mélange, discover a divisive history, relax on stunning beaches or do a bit of it all, below are the top 4 places to visit in Turkey.

Istanbul

Istanbul is the starting point for any trip to Turkey. Although it is not the official capitol, it is unarguably the cultural and historic capitol of Turkey.

Discover the Blue Mosque and Sofie-Antipolis. Check out the catacombs under the city. Indulge in one of the best night-life scenes in the world. And spend a day riding the ferry boats across the strait of Marmaris while enjoying the millennia old call to prayer.

Izmir

No trip to Turkey would be complete without visiting Izmir. It is the third largest city in Turkey and the port of the central Aegean coast. It is the birth place of Homer and a city contested for centuries by both the Persians and Greeks.

Check out Konak Square and view the grand clock tower. Get lost in the city streets.  And when the bustle and the city begins to overwhelm, simply hop a bus to one of Izmir’s many beautiful beaches.

Lycian Coast

Spectacular only begins to describe Turkey’s Lycian coast. Here, great jagged green covered mountains flow dramatically into the Turquoise blue waters of the Mediteranean.

It is a place that surely inspired many Greek and Persian legends. In fact it was even mentioned in Homer’s Illiad. Remnants of it’s long history can be seen through ancient mountain side tombs.

Lycian Coast Turkey is a great place to go sailing,  hiking, or to discover ancient ruins. It is perhaps one of the best places to both relax beach side and enjoy the sea, and learn of Turkey’s ancient past.

Ankara

Ankara is the modern political capitol of Turkey. With a long and diverse history there is much to discover. Definitely meander through National Museums, such as the Museum of Antolian Civilization. And be sure to check out the Ankara Citidel for great views of the city and insight into Turkey’s past.

Conclusion

Turkey is a destination for  lovers of history, culture, architecture, night life, and beach side relaxation. And no matter where you decide to go, from Istanbul to the Lycian Coast, you are bound to find a bit of it all.