Turkey attractions

Aqua Dream Waterpark is the largest water park in Marmaris and one the biggest in Turkey. With over 24 slides, pools, and water attractions, Aqua Dream promises a fun-filled day for visitors of all ages. Experience the thrill of the Kamikaze slide, relax on the lazy river, or let the kids enjoy the pirate ship and children’s pool.

The 2-story residence where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk—the first President of Turkey (officially the Republic of Türkiye)—stayed during official visits between 1930 and 1935 is now a museum dedicated to the legendary revolutionary. Filled with personal effects and historic items, the Alanya Ataturk House Museum (Alanya Atatürk Evi Müzesi) is a fascinating tribute to Atatürk’s visits to Antalya.

Located in the Bozburun Peninsula in southwestern Turkey, Bayir is a historic village that dates back to 200 BC. The town was built on the ruins of an ancient city, Syrna, with the mosque sitting on top of the temple of Asklepios, the Greek god of health. History buffs can admire the acropolis, pieces of the old city walls, some gravestones, and the remains of several other structures.

Designed by renowned Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan in the 16th century, Sokollu Mehmet Pasha Mosque (Sokollu Mehmet Paşa Camii)—close to the historical Sultanahmet neighborhood—was constructed on a steep slope and features a unique two-story courtyard. The interior is notable for its vibrant and extensive use of colorful Iznik tiles and marble details.

Aqua Fantasy Aquapark is a haven for thrillseekers in Selçuk, Turkey. With water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and a dedicated kids area, this destination offers something to visitors of any age. Enjoy the luxuries of soaking up the sun poolside or spend an exhilarating day hitting the slides—it's up to you.

One of Istanbul’s most vibrant areas, Besiktas is also among the city’s oldest districts—it has roots dating back to Byzantine times. Located on the European side of Istanbul, the Besiktas district boasts a mix of scenic residential streets, cultural attractions, shopping opportunities, and transport hubs (including for ferries across the Bosphorus). Highlights include Dolmabahce Palace, the lively Bebek neighborhood, and many luxury hotels.

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the fall of Constantinople at the Panorama 1453 History Museum in Istanbul. Using 360-degree panorama paintings, 3D objects, and sound effects, the museum simulates significant historical events that occurred during the Ottoman empire. There’s even a helicopter simulation that transports you through ancient Turkey (officially the Republic of Türkiye).

Set in the arid Anatolian heartlands between Ankara, Konya, and Cappadocia, Turkey’s second-largest lake has become one of the region’s most photographed natural wonders. The shallow salt lake of Tuz Golu is famous for its striking pastel-pink hue and seasonal flamingos. It dries out to reveal a glistening white salt flat during the dry summer months.

Having begun as one of the world’s largest sand sculpture festivals, Antalya’s Sandland is now a year-round sand sculpture museum. Artists use tons of sand to create gigantic sculptures along the shores of Lara Beach, with up to 100 artworks centered on a different theme each year.

No Turkish city is complete without a bazaar, the bustling marketplace at the heart of local life. If you’re looking for a local experience, Bodrum Bazaar doesn’t disappoint, with dozens of shops and stalls selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to clothing, homeware items, souvenirs, handicrafts, and every flavor of Turkish delight imaginable.

Flanking an island-dotted bay on Bodrum Peninsula’s west coast, the fishing village of Gümüslük is a slice of traditional Turkey. Less developed and quieter than many nearby towns—although it can get busy during summer—this gem keeps visitors happy with a pretty beach, underwater archaeological relics, and seafood restaurants.

For almost 200 years, Cukurcuma Hamami has brought Turkish-style wellness to Istanbul’s elite, counting esteemed guests such as the great poet Constantinos Kavafis of Alexandria among its patrons. After a lavish 10-year renovation, the hamam reopened in 2018, providing a tranquil spot to relax and unwind at the heart of the busy Beyoğlu neighborhood.

Jutting out of the southern coast of the Datça Peninsula and into the Mediterranean Sea, the mountainous Bozburun Peninsula is renowned for its tranquil sandy beaches, ancient cities, and lively nightlife, making it a popular stop for yacht cruises and jeep safaris from Bodrum or Fethiye.

Izmir Ethnography Museum illustrates the history of how common people have lived in Izmir, through their daily arts, crafts, and customs. Interesting artifacts include weaponry, pottery, clothing, manuscripts, pottery, photographs, and a nice collection of Bergama and Gordes carpets. Displays and dioramas showcase various activities and pastimes such as glassblowing, blue bead and felt production, and camel wrestling.

Marking the end of Istanbul’s long Walls of Constantinople, Yedikule Fortress (Yedikule Hisari Müzesi) was built in the fifth century and was expanded during the Ottoman conquest of what today is Istanbul. The fortified structure, also known as the Fortress of Seven Towers, historically contained an infamous dungeon as well as a treasury and an armory.

Adaköy is a forested headland facing Marmaris Bay. Hailed as one of the region’s best-kept secrets, the peninsula attracts visitors with its tranquil atmosphere and secluded beaches. Plus, the sheltered position of Adaköy’s beaches make their waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Built in the early 16th century, this formidable hilltop fortress is Cesme’s most recognizable attraction. Its vantage point once allowed the Ottomans to watch the seas for signs of pirate ships or enemy invasions; today, it means that the castle boasts incredible bird’s-eye views stretching along the Aegean coastline. The building also houses the small but worthwhile Cesme Museum.

Located along the Sea of Marmara coast in Tuzla, a district on the Asian side of Istanbul, this massive complex contains mooring space for boats and yachts, an outdoor shopping mall with over 200 restaurants and chain stores, and waterfront event spaces. Viaport Marina is also home to ViaSea Aquarium and ViaLand Theme Park, which boasts roller coasters and other thrill-seeker rides.

If you believe the myths, Cleopatra once frequented this verdant island at the mouth of Bodrum Harbor. Either way, the Black Island (Kara Ada) has become a hugely popular destination for boat cruises, as sunseekers sail over to bathe in its natural hot springs and cover themselves in mineral-rich mud (said to be a beauty secret of the ancient Egyptian queen).

Once part of the Hippodrome chariot racing track in the days of the Byzantine Empire (traces still remain today), Sultanahmet Square is now the heart of Istanbul’s main historical district. From here it is a short stroll to the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the 17th-century Blue Mosque, 6th-century Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans.

Originally founded in the 18th century as a roadside resting place for travelers, this covered Ottoman structure is now a bustling marketplace—and one of Izmir’s top historic attractions. A smaller version of Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, Kizlaragasi Han has everything from fresh produce and cheeses to ceramic plates and leather bags. You’ll also find traditional restaurants serving a variety of local dishes.

Housed in a historic wooden mansion on the Asian side of Istanbul, this expansive collection of antique toys (some of which date back to the early 1800s) is spread over four floors of the restored Ottoman-era villa. There are a total of 4,000 artifacts, each grouped by theme and arranged by a professional stage designer—space toys feature cosmic decor, while toy trains are exhibited in a salvaged train compartment. The Istanbul Toy Museum is great for kids, but it also appeals to the inner child of all travelers.

According to legend, Cleopatra enjoyed clandestine rendezvous with her lover, Marc Antony, on the shores of this tiny island in the Aegean Sea, just off the Gulf of Gokova. Their story makes the island a renowned romantic spot. Its other claim to fame is its unusually textured sand, which is made up of smooth, white, ground-up seashells.

As one of Turkey’s (officially the Republic of Türkiye) largest ports, Izmir Cruise Port welcomes international cruise liners from around the world. As well as boasting a prime location on the Aegean Coast, Izmir also serves as the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Ephesus and Pergamon.

It might not have the most original name, but Big Pebble Beach certainly lives up to expectations. Framed by craggy sea cliffs, this wide crescent-shaped beach is known for its large white pebbles, which slope down into the azure Mediterranean waters. The popular beach lies just south of Kas, drawing sunseekers from the city and neighboring Small Pebble Beach.

A waterfall at the top of a lush, shallow stream, Gizlikent Selalesi is one of many natural attractions in the Xanthos Valley of southwestern Turkey. Rocky cliffs bursting with plantlife make up much of the scenery on the route to the waterfall, while the trickle of rushing water and splash of footsteps in the steam provide an equally serene soundtrack.

Known for its panoramic views overlooking Turkey’s Black Sea coastline and the city of Trabzon, Boztepe is a favorite among locals and travelers alike looking to unwind. You’ll find a range of teahouses—known as çay bahçesi—at the top of the hill, where it’s possible to grab traditional Turkish sweets like baklava and a hot glass of çay.

While it might be small enough to hike across in an hour, Akdamar Island is still the second-largest island on Lake Van and a popular destination for boat cruises. Fringed by rocky shores and almond trees, the picturesque island is known for its Armenian heritage sites, most notably the hilltop church and monastery ruins.

Not to be confused with Alanya Castle, Alara Castle is a 13th-century fortification perched atop a craggy rock. Once a lookout point to protect caravans traveling from the Silk Road, it's now a popular hiking and sightseeing spot. The castle contains the picturesque ruins of a caravanserai, mosque, and hammam, most dating back to the end of the Byzantine Empire.

Forum Istanbul is one of the city’s premier locations for shoppers seeking everything from designer shoes to the latest in electronics. Beyond its many retail stores, you’ll find a range of entertainment activities, including a bowling alley, arcade, and aquarium, making it an ideal destination for the entire family.