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Don't leave these iconic locations off your Turkish bucket list.
TrovaTrip Host @thekatieduke and Travelers in front of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey 2022.
When you think of Turkey, what comes to mind? Does it conjure up images of the majestic Hagia Sophia or exotic bazaars? Perhaps you thought of Turkish tea or baklava. What you might not know is that this fascinating country is full of surprises. For example, you can stay overnight in rustic, yet luxurious cave suites. Yes, in a cave! And you can wander through centuries-old bazaars or ride in hot air balloons, among other adventures. You can do it all in Turkey and even bring a piece of it home in the form of a beautiful, hand-made carpet.
Cappadocia
TrovaTrip Host @briannamadia with Travelers in Cappadocia, Turkey 2022.
Located in central Turkey, Cappadocia is known for its fairytale-like rock formations and hot air balloons that rise into the sky every morning. Cappadocian hot air balloon rides are showing up more and more on bucket lists these days and are totally worth the hype.
Cappadocia is also known for its ancient cave cities. Some of which were carved as deep as 9 stories below the surface! Other caves have been carved into the side of 'hoodoos' (aka fairy chimneys) formed by a unique erosion process, making this surreal destination all the more stunning.
A hoodoo located in Cappadocia, Turkey.
Interested in hosting a trip for your community to experience Cappadocia? Check out this itinerary.
Pamukkale
TrovaTrip Traveler @vjean342 in Pumakkale, Turkey 2022.
When visiting Turkey, don’t miss Pamukkale (translation: ‘cotton castle’). This breathtaking natural area features white petrified waterfalls and vast terraced basins. Dating back to the Roman era, the mineral-rich spas are still surrounded by ancient temples and monuments (some of which have fallen into the pools). In fact, you can take a dip in the hot springs among fallen Greek columns where Cleopatra allegedly bathed!
Istanbul
TrovaTrip Traveler @luwagi in Istanbul, Turkey 2022.
This old city is as amazing as it is famous. Formerly known as Constantinople, Istanbul was the capital of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. This city is bursting with culture—from the decadent foods such as Börek (layered pastry dough filled with meat, cheese, spinach, or potatoes) or braised lamb shank, served at local restaurants, to the street-side shops and warm people who bring it to life. Istanbul is home to some of the world's most beautiful sites including the Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar (which has 4,000 shops and 61 covered streets!) Did someone say shopping?
Cunda Island
Accessible by ferry, Cunda is the largest of the Ayvalik Islands located between Turkey and Greece. With quaint stone houses adorned with brightly colored shutters and winding cobblestone alleyways, Cunda is truly picture-perfect in every way. Colorful fishing boats are anchored around this picturesque island, which was formerly inhabited by a large Greek population. Cunda is also home to ancient olive trees that still produce some of the country’s finest olive oil.
Kucukkoy
TrovaTrip Traveler @seanmwebster viewing a local artist's shop in Kucukkoy, Turkey 2022.
If you want to experience village life with an artistic flair, visit Kucukkoy, a small, charming medieval town built in the 1400s. Today, Kucukkoy is filled with generations of talented local artists and restaurant owners who love to welcome visitors into their humble village. From hand-carved gourds turned into lamps, to spiced Turkish coffee, this laid-back town is a lesser-known gem that you can't miss.
Make the most of your exploration through the Land of Legends.
Most people say the best time to visit Turkey is between April and May or September and October. The weather is fairly mild during these months ranging from 60-85°F (depending on the region), making it a great time to explore all the wonders Turkey has to offer. If you’d like to travel to Turkey and meet some new friends, let one of our Hosts take you to this fabulous region. Check out our trips here. You’ll be glad you did.