A visit to Turkey

Turkey is a magical country that has tons to offer those who travel to this unique part of the world. With many wondrous ancient historical sites, delicious cuisines and fun activities, it's not hard to see why so many people venture to Turkey for the summer vacation of a lifetime.

Part of planning the perfect Turkish trip is looking at the different things that you can do while you visit this amazing country, and we here at Flight Centre have all the best options for you to consider. As a country along one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, making your way through the towns along the coast and being able to explore ancient sites scattered throughout the country is a stunning way to ensure that you explore all that this majestic country has to offer.

To ensure that you have a few options when it comes to things that you do, see and eat, we here at Flight Centre have come up with different things to be sure you include when you travel to Turkey.

As a country that sits along the stunning Mediterranean Sea, Turkey is definitely not short on stunning sights to see when you venture to this beautiful country. From man-made to natural phenomena, you want to be sure to arrive in Turkey with a list of places to check out, to be sure that you get to all of the amazing spots! Here is a list of just a few of the most amazing things to see when you are planning your Turkey itinerary. 

Packed with monuments and ancient sites that you can explore when you head to Turkey, be sure to include a stop at the spectacular Ephesus! Ephesus is an assortment of different buildings that have survived since the antiquity era, with some monuments in the region dating as far back as 10 B.C. You are truly taking a step back in time and experiencing the region as it was hundreds of years ago, and as this was a time of Roman rule you will be able to note the similarities between the different structures if you have ever been to Italy. One of the most amazing structures to be sure you get the chance to see is definitely the Great Theatre as it is one of the most well-preserved ancient structures that still exist in the modern world.

Pamukkale is one of Turkey's most popular natural wonders, making it a popular tourist destination for those visiting! Pamukkale is directly translated into ‘Cotton Castle’, and if you get the chance to visit, you will understand how this region has lived up to its name. Pamukkale has been a popular spa destination for hundreds of years, with people making their way to the mineral-rich waters of this town for a long soak.
This region looks very out of place amongst the rich green landscape of the region thanks to the white travertines that cascade down the slopes, looking as if you have stepped into a snowy wonderland. As this was once an ancient spa town, called Greco-Roman Hierapolis, you can also explore the ancient ruins in the area, ensuring that you truly experience everything that this region has to offer. If you are looking for the chance to do something unique, make sure that a visit to Pamukkale is on your list of things to see when you travel to Turkey. 

You will of course want to visit the capital city of Turkey while you are visiting the country as Istanbul has tons of history, amazing sights and many fun activities that will leave you itching for more. The Blue Mosque is one of the most famous sites in this city and when you visit Turkey you will want to be sure that you include a trip to explore it.

The magnificent architecture is simply breathtaking, highlighting the common building features associated with the Ottoman era. The historical beauty and religious importance of this mosque has made it one of the most amazing sights to see in Turkey, with many travelling from all over the globe to get the chance to see the beauty for themselves. This is a fully operational mosque, so be sure to remember that you will need to dress conservatively and also visit outside of prayer times. During these periods, those who are not of the Muslim religion are free to explore the grounds and marvel at the beauty of this magnificent structure. 

When you travel to Turkey, you are going to want to make sure that you have tons of different activities to do! While you may want to set aside some time to just relax and enjoy the stunning scenery of the country, activities can help to ensure that you have a thrilling and exciting time on your vacation. From adrenaline-pumping sightseeing to more subdued, but no less fun, activities, we have a few different options when it comes to the activities you plan for your Turkish trip. 

Gulet Cruise

The famous Turkish gulet yachts would be a stunning option to consider if you are looking to spend a few days roaming around the coast! These gulets were once used as fishing vessels, but today, they are hugely popular tourist attractions as they allow you to explore the beautiful coast and the Mediterranean Sea. One of the great things about renting a gulet is that they are offered in various sizes and types, ensuring that it meets the needs of any group's size and budget. Travelling along the coast on a gulet allows for you to see and experience all that the coast of Turkey has to offer and allows you to venture from town to town in a fun and exciting way. Along with exploring the coast and the ocean, a gulet cruise often comes with a chef who is able to make delicious traditional cuisines, making this adventure an extra special one. For those looking for an activity to spend a few days enjoying, we would highly recommend a gulet cruise along the stunning coast of Turkey! 

Hot Air Ballooning in Cappadocia

Cappadocia is one of the most beautiful regions in Turkey to visit when you venture to this part of the world, and it is definitely a city that you will want to include in your travels. While exploring Cappadocia from the ground is an amazing activity to do, seeing it from above is nothing short of breathtaking. Cappadocia has famous hot air balloon rides over the majestic landscape, with a chance to see the unique fairy chimneys that sprout up from the ground! This unique and once-in-a-lifetime experience is an amazing way to see the different spots around the beautiful region, and many choose this as the main activity that they enjoy while in this part of the country. Many of the hot air balloon companies will arrange for you to be picked up directly from your hotel, with the best times to take this scenic trip either being while the sun rises or sets. Seeing the landscape in this way offers an amazing perspective and the chance for travellers to enjoy a truly unique and wonderful experience. 

Paragliding in Ölüdeniz

When in Turkey, you are definitely going to want to spend at least a few days of your trip enjoying the coast. Turkey is home to some of the most amazing beaches, with crystal clear warm waters and stunning stretches of some of the best beaches in the world. One of these beaches is in the region of Ölüdeniz. With stunning blue waters, forests surrounding the region and one of the most amazing sandy white beaches in the country, it is not hard to understand why many travellers, both local and international, head out to this fantastic part of Turkey. Along with exploring the forest and beach, you may want to head up into the sky to enjoy another view of the breathtaking scenery that this region is known for. Paragliding is one of the most popular activities and if you are brave enough and looking for a fun-filled adrenaline-pumping way to spend an hour or two, paragliding in Ölüdeniz is definitely an activity to consider trying!

Shop in The Grand Bazaar 

The Grand Bazaar, or Kapali Çarşı, dates back to the 15th century, making it one of the oldest covered markets in not just Turkey, but the world! With over 4000 shops located within this market, it is a shopping lover's paradise (if you are known to shop till you drop, you may want to buy an extra suitcase for this leg of your trip). The Grand Bazaar is the perfect place to find a few mementoes to take home for yourself or for loved ones, so be sure to be on the lookout for the gifts that you may want to take home for family and friends. The Grand Bazaar is a vibrant site to visit and you truly feel as though you are in the throngs of Turkish living while you explore and barter with the vendors! 

A trip to Turkey will not just supply you with lots of fun activities and sights but it will also allow you to explore the unique cuisine of this region! Be prepared for your tastebuds to explode with flavour every time you try something new, and perhaps be prepared to eat a bit more than you usually would (yes, pack those big pairs of pants). 

Turkish Kebabs

Now, we all know that a braaied South African kebab is quite hard to beat, but in Turkey, you may just have to eat your words along with some of the most delicious kebabs that you have ever tasted. You will find kebabs on the menu at most restaurants as well as when walking along the road encountering street vendors. Turkish kebabs are unique thanks to their delicious aroma and combination of traditional spices, which have often been passed down from generation to generation. Whether you are in a restaurant or are looking for a quick meal from a street food vendor, be sure to indulge in a delicious Turkish kebab at least once while visiting this country.

Gözleme

Gözleme refers to Turkish flatbreads and they come in a wide variety of different flavours, with some more meaty and hearty while others are suited to vegetarians with a delicious accumulation of veggies on the thin crusty flatbread. Not only is Gözleme a great meal to enjoy while sitting in a restaurant, but they can also be served cold and packed with you for a day of exploring, making it easy to plan for delicious snacks to have on your way to your next adventure. Gözleme is a must-try food to be sure to enjoy and it is sure to tantalise your taste buds like never before!

Baklava 

For those who have a bit of a sweet tooth, you will want to be sure that you try the delicious dessert delicacy; baklava! Baklava is a traditional Turkish cuisine that is native to both Turkey and Greece, filled with crispy pastry and syrupy texture that will have you salivating just by looking at it. Baklava is made with phyllo pastry that is cooked until it is crunchy and golden brown, which is then topped off with honey and nuts for that extra sweet taste. You will find these tasty treats in both restaurants as well as in bakeries, so be sure to indulge in one or four of these delicious desserts.

Turkey is waiting to be explored, so get chatting with one of our Travel Experts today and see how affordable this beautiful destination truly is!