Discover Turkey’s hidden gems

Turkey is a country that is full of fascinating culture, rich history, vibrant cities, and stunning landscapes. Famous for its bustling metropolises like Istanbul and Ankara, Turkey is also home to numerous hidden gems that are often missed by tourists. These places are off the beaten track, tucked away in quiet corners of the country, and are waiting to be discovered by intrepid travelers.

Top Hidden Gems in Turkey

Here are some of the top hidden gems in Turkey that you should definitely add to your travel itinerary:

1. Fethiye and Oludeniz

Fethiye and Oludeniz are two beautiful coastal towns located in southwestern Turkey. Both towns offer amazing panoramic views of the turquoise Mediterranean sea and are surrounded by stunning mountain ranges. Fethiye has a wealth of ancient and historic sites like the Lycian rock tombs, the medieval castle, and the Roman theatre. Oludeniz features a picturesque lagoon with crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and other outdoor activities like paragliding.

2. Kars and Ani

Kars is an ancient city located in northeastern Turkey, close to the borders of Armenia and Georgia. The city is known for its striking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The Kars Castle, built during the Seljuk period, is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks. Ani, an abandoned medieval city, is located a short drive away from Kars and is a must-visit for history lovers. The city was once a vital trading hub and was home to numerous churches, mosques, palaces, and other buildings dating back to the 10th and 11th centuries.

3. Amasra

Amasra is a charming seaside town located on the Black Sea coast of Turkey. The town is famous for its two citadels, ancient houses, and traditional Turkish architecture. The town’s harbor is lined with brightly colored fishing boats, and the old town features cobbled streets and beautiful Ottoman-era mansions. Visitors to Amasra can enjoy the town’s beaches, hike through the surrounding forests, and explore the local markets and street food stalls for some delicious local delicacies.

4. Gaziantep

Gaziantep is a bustling city located in southeastern Turkey, famous for its rich culinary heritage. The city is home to some of the best Turkish dishes, including baklava, kebabs, and pistachios. Gaziantep is also home to a range of historic sites, including the Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum, which houses some of the most beautiful and intricate Roman mosaics in the world. Visitors to Gaziantep can also explore traditional markets, ancient fortresses, and Ottoman-era mansions.

5. Mount Ida

Mount Ida, also known as Kazdaglari, is a stunning mountain range located in northwest Turkey. The mountain range is home to numerous small villages, ancient monasteries, and nature reserves. Visitors can explore the Mount Ida National Park, which features hiking trails, waterfalls, and natural hot springs. The mountain range is also home to some of the best local produce in Turkey, including honey, olives, and olive oil.

6. Safranbolu

Safranbolu is a charming town located in the Black Sea region of Turkey. The town is famous for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, traditional Turkish houses, and picturesque streets. Visitors to Safranbolu can explore the town’s historic marketplaces, museums, and mosques, including the Cinci Inn, a 17th-century Ottoman-era mansion that is now open to the public as a museum. The town’s cobbled streets and beautiful gardens offer the perfect opportunity for a leisurely stroll and some stunning photographs.

7. Cappadocia

Cappadocia is a geological wonder located in central Turkey. The region is famous for its unique rock formations, underground cities, and ancient churches carved into the rocks. Visitors to Cappadocia can explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum, which showcases some of the most beautiful examples of early Christian art in the world. The region is also known for its hot air balloon rides, which offer an unparalleled view of the stunning landscapes as the sun rises.

8. Midyat

Midyat is a small town located in southeastern Turkey, close to the border with Syria. The town is famous for its intricately carved sandstone buildings, which feature unique motifs and designs. Midyat is also home to a wide range of historic sites, including ancient churches, monasteries, and castles. Visitors to the town can explore the narrow streets, sample local cuisine, and visit local artisan workshops, where craftsmen create beautiful metalwork, glassware, and textiles.

9. Mardin

Mardin is another charming town located in southeastern Turkey, close to the border with Syria and Iraq. The town is home to a range of beautiful historic sites, including the Mardin Castle, the Deyrulzafaran Monastery, and the Great Mosque. Mardin’s narrow streets and uneven stone alleys offer visitors the opportunity to explore the town’s rich heritage and culture. The town is also famous for its local cuisine, which features a range of delicious dishes from the Arab and Ottoman culinary traditions.

Conclusion

Turkey is a country that is full of hidden gems, just waiting to be discovered. From charming seaside towns to stunning mountain ranges, Turkey has something for everyone. These hidden gems offer a unique insight into the country’s rich heritage, culture, and people. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or food, Turkey’s hidden gems are sure to captivate and inspire visitors from all over the world. So, why not add some of these hidden gems to your travel itinerary and discover the beauty of Turkey for yourself?