Planning a Short Trip to Turkey
Turkey is a big country and it might be difficult at first to figure out where you want to go. The main choice you’ll need to make is city, beach, or both.
1. Ankara
Many people prefer travelling to more popular locations, so Ankara is unfortunately overlooked. However, Turkey’s capital is known for its historical sites and shopping. Tourists can visit places such as the Temple of Augustus, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, and several mosques in order to learn more about the area’s history. Then, after a day of sightseeing, they can head off to the shopping malls or the local markets to purchase everything from clothes, to carpets, to electronics. Ankara is also an excellent departure point towards other important Turkish destinations, due to its location in the heart of the country. So, if you’ve enjoyed your first trip and want to come back, you’ll have a good idea where to start from.
2. Antalya
Antalya is known as the Turkish Riviera, so don’t be surprised to find the city swarming with tourists. The city is obviously known for its beaches (Lara and Konyaalti) and resorts, but if you’re ever tired of sunbathing, you can go sightseeing around the Old Quarter, which includes churches, a clock tower, mosques, and temples. The Cumhuriyet Square is also one of the most popular areas for shoppers and hungry visitors. Also, if you’re bringing children along for the ride, make sure you stop by Antalya Aquapark.
3. Bodrum
If you can’t make it to Antalya, or the city is simply too crowded for your liking, then Bodrum is an alternative. Bodrum was once the site of the ancient city of Halicarnassus, a fortification filled with marble temples and statues. Not much remains from the once powerful city except the fishing village of Bodrum, which brings both history and entertainment together. The beaches are located in the eastern part of Bodrum, while the western half is known for its shops, restaurants, and marina. Among the popular historical sites, you can visit Bodrum Castle, the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, Myndos Gate, and the remains of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus.
4. Side
Once upon a time, Side was an ancient port occupied by Alexander the Great. Now, it is a thriving town filled with ancient ruins and modern resorts, but also stunning views of the Mediterranean. Among the most popular tourist attractions, you can check out an excavated site of ancient Hellenistic and Roman ruins, which include temples, an amphitheatre and public baths, but also the Temple of Apollo. Water sports are also fairly popular in the neighbouring areas, where you can go water rafting or boating.
5. Dalaman District
The town of Dalaman is another good alternative for tourists who want to avoid very crowded destinations. Shopping prices here are lower than those in larger and more popular tourist destinations, so if you’re travelling on a budget you won’t have to worry too much. Dalaman also serves as a departure points to some of the nearby Turkish villages. In fact, the entire Dalaman area is worth visiting if you’re not opposed to planning ahead. Patara Beach is a large 17 km beach which will give you the privacy you need, while the village of Sarigerme is known for its historic streets and architecture. Also, adventurous tourists can try paragliding in Olu Deniz or water sports in Ovacik.
6. Konya
Konya is known as one of the oldest cities in the world, which means that it is a popular tourist destination among those who simply want to immerse themselves in Turkey’s history. The Alaeddin Mosque is known as the burial place of several sultans, while the Ince Minare Medrese Museum contains several Seljuk and Ottoman artefacts. Also, no visit is complete without exploring the Seljuk Palace (a castle which is now in ruins) and the Seljuk Tower (a modern skyscraper which is obviously not in ruins). The Mausoleum of Rumi, the home of a Persian theologian and mystic, is another popular historic site, but so is the Mevlana Cultural Centre, a place where Rumi’s followers perform their well-known ceremonies. Unlike other cities, Konya is more conservative, so you won’t have many nightclubs and bars at your disposal. However, peace and quiet can be a good alternative.
Whether you’re planning to visit Turkey to sunbathe, or you’re only interested in sightseeing, you will soon find out that Turkey has a bit of everything. All you have to do is save up and make your reservations.
photo credit: Kıvanç Niş cc
