Discover the magic of Türkiye: 5 must-visit cities for every traveller

Türkiye (or Turkey) is a country where continents collide, ancient history meets vibrant modernity, and diverse landscapes captivate every traveller. It’s where East meets West (literally), and every city has a completely different vibe. If you’re planning a trip and wondering where to start, here are five must-visit places, what to do in each, how long to stay, and the best time to go.

1. Istanbul – For sights, shopping & a bit of everything (3 - 4 days)

You can’t go to Turkey and skip Istanbul. This city is packed with incredible history and culture - you’ll find ancient mosques, grand palaces, and lively markets all in the same neighbourhood. Make sure to check out the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. A Bosphorus cruise is a must - it’s a beautiful way to see the city from the water.

If you’re into shopping, the Grand Bazaar is a whole experience on its own. There are also some great modern shops and cafes scattered throughout areas like Galata and Nisantasi. Istanbul moves fast, so give yourself at least 3 - 4 days to really enjoy it.

2. Antalya – For resorts and relaxing (4 - 5 days)

Antalya is Turkey’s top beach destination, perfect if you want to slow down and enjoy some sunshine. This place is all about all-inclusive resorts, especially around Lara Beach and Belek, where you can lounge, swim, and eat your way through your stay.

That said, don’t miss the old town, Kaleiçi, with its narrow streets, cute cafes, and historic buildings. Take a day trip to the Düden Waterfalls, explore ancient ruins at Perge or Aspendos, or simply unwind on a yacht tour along the Turquoise Coast. 4 to 5 days here is enough to soak it all in (and get a tan).

3. Cappadocia – For magical views and cave hotels (2 - 3 days)

Cappadocia feels like another planet. The landscape is filled with weird rock formations called fairy chimneys, and the whole place is just surreal. The most iconic thing to do here is a hot air balloon ride at sunrise - it’s worth every second.

You should definitely stay in a cave hotel and explore places like the Göreme Open-Air Museum, Love Valley, and even underground cities like Derinkuyu. Plan on spending 2 - 3 days here to take it all in and enjoy the slower pace.

4. Kusadasi – For beaches and ancient ruins (2 - 3 days)

Kusadasi is a lovely coastal town that’s great for a mix of beach time and history. It’s also the closest base for visiting Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Walking through Ephesus feels like stepping into a real-life history book - don’t miss the Library of Celsus and the huge amphitheatre.

Back in Kusadasi, there’s good food, shopping, and a laid-back vibe. You only need about 2 - 3 days here to enjoy both the beach and the ruins.

5. Pamukkale – For thermal pools and ancient baths (1 - 2 days)

Last but not least, Pamukkale is known for its stunning white travertine terraces that look like they’re made of cotton (in fact, Pamukkale means “cotton castle” in Turkish). You can walk barefoot across the warm, mineral-rich pools and even take a dip in Cleopatra’s Pool, surrounded by ancient columns.

Right next to the terraces is Hierapolis, an ancient Roman spa city. A full day here is enough, but if you want to take it slow, stay overnight.

The best time to explore Turkey is spring (April–June) or fall (September–October), when the weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller. Summer is hot and crowded, especially in coastal regions, while winters can be chilly, though magical in Cappadocia. Each of these Turkish destinations offers a different flavour: Istanbul for culture and shopping, Antalya for seaside luxury, Cappadocia for natural beauty and bucket-list balloon rides, Kusadasi for history and coast, and Pamukkale for stunning natural formations. Whether you’re an adventurer, history buff, or beach bum, Turkey has a city waiting to enchant you.

Ready to plan your trip? Check out flights to Turkey page and have a safe voyage!