Turkey attractions

Enter a world of creativity and experience an indoor LEGO® adventure at Istanbul’s LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre. Located inside the Forum Istanbul Mall in Bayrampasa, this interactive LEGO-themed entertainment park includes rides, build and play zones, workshops, displays, a shop, café, and 4D cinema.

Featuring walls hewn from natural rock and a stunning 130-foot-long hallway adorned with 5th-century mosaics, the Baths of Varius underwent several renovations over the centuries to become the one-of-a-kind structure we see today. Boasting separate rooms for cold, warm, and hot water, private chambers for wealthy citizens of Ephesus, and possibly even a gymnasium, the baths covered an expansive area and provided a luxurious and functional hub for ancient Turkish society. A visit to the Baths of Varius is not only a memorable experience but also a valuable opportunity to learn about Ephesus’ unique history.

Opened in 2003 on the shores of the Golden Horn, Miniaturk (Miniatürk) is one of the largest miniature parks in the world. The exhibitions are divided into three sections: Istanbul, Anatolia, and Ottoman territories that today lie outside of Turkey. Through the miniature re-creations, it’s possible to experience all of the highlights of Turkey.

Framed by forested hills, lively seaside resorts, and miles of glittering blue waters—the Gulf of Fethiye (Fethiye Körfezi is among the most scenic stretches of Turkey’s (officially the Republic of Türkiye) Turquoise Coast. A popular destination for boat cruises; it’s home to a dozen islands, dotted with Byzantine ruins and beautiful beaches.

The Izmir Archaeology Museum (İzmir Arkeoloji Müzesi), located near Konak Square and the Ethnography Museum, lets you explore an impressive collection of artifacts dating back to the Bronze Age as well as the Greek and Roman periods. Originally opened in 1927, the museum relocated to its current location in 1984 and offers a diverse selection of historical treasures waiting to be discovered. With over 5,000 square meters of exhibition halls, laboratories, libraries, and conference spaces arranged across multiple floors, it’s one of the most important museums on Turkey’s coast.

Opened in 2012 by Turkish author and Nobel laureate Orhan Pamuk, Istanbul’s Museum of Innocence (Masumiyet Müzesi) is designed to complement Pamuk’s novel of the same name. The exhibitions tell the story of his book through objects that Pamuk collected personally. It isn’t necessary to have read the book to enjoy the evocative collection.

Constructed in the 16th century, Beyazit Mosque (Beyazit Camii) was the second imperial mosque built in Istanbul after the Ottomans conquered the city. The mosque was commissioned by Sultan Beyazit II, whose tomb is located on the site. The interior of the mosque and its large central dome were based on the design of the Hagia Sophia.

On a hill with a strategic view of the Gulf of Izmir, the co-called Velvet Castle was built in the 4th century BC under Alexander the Great. Remnants of successive occupants, including Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans, may be found though not much remains of the fortified castle, except for towering ramparts, ruins of a 14th-century mosque—and the wonderful vista.

Built in the sixth century by Emperor Justinian I as the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus (Kücük Ayasofya Camii), it later took its name Little Hagia Sophia from its resemblance to the larger Hagia Sophia, which was built nearby a few years earlier. After the Ottomans conquered Constantinople, the church was converted into a mosque.

The charming island of Gemiler, off the Turkish coast, offers a serene setting to escape bustling city life. The island's rich history is evident from the ancient ruins of Byzantine churches, courts, and cisterns. In addition to the historical sites, visitors can also enjoy beaches with crystal-clear waters.

Close to the coastal resort town of Bodrum, the small village of Yalıçiftlik provides a tranquil retreat from the tourist crowds. Bordered by pine forests, olive groves, and rocky coves, Yalıçiftlik is the place to escape to the countryside, experience traditional Turkish life, and swim at secluded sandy beaches.

Cave hotels, cave churches, and a wall of crumbling cave homes make Cavusin (Çavuşin—say “cha-vu-shin”) a very atmospheric Cappadocian village. It’s divided into two parts: the old town, which was abandoned in the 1960s for fear of rockfalls, and the new village that replaced it. Hotels and cafés are springing up in the old town, encouraging travelers to stay awhile.

The Column of Constantine (Çemberlitaş Sütunu), located in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district, is a monumental landmark dating back to the 4th century. Built to celebrate the emperor's victory over his rival Maxentius, the column is one of the most significant surviving Roman landmarks in Istanbul and a popular pit stop for travelers visiting the Grand Bazaar.

Crowning the promontory dividing Bodrum and Gumbet, the Bodrum Windmills are one of the region’s prettiest landmarks. Built in the 18th century to grind flour, the seven stone structures are now derelict but are still picture perfect and offer stupendous views over the bays of both resorts.

The grand Myndos Gate (Myndos Kapısı) once guarded the western entrance to the ancient Greek city of Halicarnassus and marked the route to nearby Myndos (now Gümüslük). Now in ruins, the gate is the last trace of the city’s once-mighty fortifications and remains a prominent landmark of modern-day Bodrum.

Looming over the seafront along Bodrum harbor, Bodrum Castle is not just a historic landmark—the medieval ruins also house the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Showcasing the archeological finds unearthed from shipwrecks along Turkey’s (officially the Republic of Türkiye) Aegean Coast, the museum is a trove of ancient artifacts, Bronze age finds, and maritime treasures.

Built in 1625, St. Polycarp Church is the oldest Christian house of worship in Izmir. Dedicated to St. Polycarp, who had been converted by John the Apostle and martyred by the Romans, the barrelled-shaped church features colorful murals, remarkably restored by a Frenchman who infamously inserted his likeness.

Located deep in Turkey’s (officially the Republic of Türkiye) Anatolia region, Hattusa (also written Hattusha, Hattuşaş, or Hattusas) is one of the country’s biggest archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During its pomp in the second millennium BC, Hattusa was the capital of the Hittite Empire, wielding power across Anatolia and beyond. Its ruins coat a large hillside and include temples, fortifications, gates, and statues.

The ancient city of Kaunos, near Dalyan in Turkey (officially the Republic of Türkiye), was founded in the 9th century BC, and was located between Lycia and Caria—hence it embodies characteristics of both empires. Though now abandoned, Kaunos was once a flourishing city that served as a bustling trading post on the coast, and its ruins provide a vivid glimpse into the past.

The Fire of Anatolia show is a dramatic tribute to Anatolia’s rich history. Watch as 120 dancers take to the stage, performing a mix of traditional and modern Turkish dance to live music complete with dazzling lights and costumes. See the show at the purpose-built, open-air Gloria Aspendos Arena.

Akyaka is a charming village nestled in Turkey’s Mugla province along Gokova Bay. The town—often overlooked by foreign visitors—is famous for its clear waters, rich culture, and outdoor sports opportunities. It’s the ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful or adventurous getaway without noise or aggressive salespeople.

South of Antalya, Beydaglari Coastal National Park has over 74,000 acres (30,000 hectares) of coastal cliffs, beaches, and mountains. Spectacular hiking trails, fascinating archaeological sites, and dramatic views over the Mediterranean make it a popular day trip from Antalya and Kemer.

One of Ephesus’ most important fountains, the Fountain of Trajan (Nymphaeum Traiani) stands proud on Curetes Street. Built sometime between 102–114 AD to honor Emperor Trajan, it once stood more than 30 feet (9.5 meters) high and featured around 15 statues, including a vast sculpture of Trajan, of which only one foot remains.

Selimiye is a quaint coastal town in the Mugla province of Turkey (officially the Republic of Türkiye). Situated between Marmaris and Datca, it boasts a picturesque harbor with locally crafted fishing boats, a quiet seaside, and a handful of ancient ruins. Selimiye offers travelers an opportunity to experience authentic Turkish life away from the bustle of more touristy cities nearby.

Studded with palm trees and presided over by the 82-foot-tall (25-meter-tall) Izmir Clock Tower, Konak Square (Konak Meydanı) is the navigational and social heart of the city. A popular meeting place, it’s home to important civic buildings and is located near Izmir’s historic ferry terminal and Kermeralti Grand Bazaar.

Manavgat Market is a large covered shopping center in Manavgat, north of Side. Every Monday and Thursday, it expands into the neighboring side streets, with a chaotic sprawl of stalls selling fake designer clothes, perfumes, purses, sunglasses, Turkish crafts and souvenirs, and fresh produce and cheeses. A farmers market component also offers fresh produce and cheeses.

Commissioned in the 16th century by Suleiman the Magnificent for his daughter, Mihrimah Sultan Mosque (Mihrimah Sultan Camii) in Edirnekapi was designed by the celebrated Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan. The mosque is dappled with windows that let sunlight into the space and is topped by a monumental dome. Unlike most imperial mosques, it only has one minaret.

Eyup is a sacred district in Istanbul that has been a pilgrimage site for centuries. A visit here offers a glimpse into the spiritual side of Istanbul and its cultural heritage. It’s home to the Eyup Sultan Mosque (arguably the holiest sight in the city), local markets, Pierre Loti Hill, and outstanding panoramic views of Istanbul.

Patara Beach is a coastal treasure on the Turkish Riviera. Boasting a long coastline, this stretch of pristine sand near the ancient Lycian city of Patara offers a warm welcome to Mediterranean beach lovers. Seasonal wildlife such as native birds and nesting sea turtles are protected and can be observed at specific times of the year.

Escape the crowds of Istanbul and enjoy fresh air and nature at Belgrad Forest. Located north of the city, the over 13,000-acre (5,300-hectare) green space is a popular picnic and recreational area for Istanbul residents, particularly on the weekends.