Millions of tourists flock to Turkey every year and it comes as no surprise that this country is amongst the top 10 must-visit destinations of the world. This will be one of those dream come true trips as you explore TURKEY whose history of human habitation goes all the way back to 25,000 years. It is so raw, so untouched and has an ideal blend of traditions and modernization. Plus, this is the only place in the world that straddles Europe and Western Asia with deep cultural connections to Byzantine, Roman, Ottoman, Persian and Greek empires. Personally for me, a 6.5 hours’ flights are just an added bonus as they have direct flights from all major cities from India which further makes it so convenient for us to travel. Turkey sets such an ideal example of how diverse cultures can co-exist and flourish harmoniously.
It derives elements from Central and West Asian regions, Eastern Mediterranean and Eastern European traditions and it reflects in their cuisine, people, architecture and hospitality. Turkey is a paradise for all kinds of travelers and it speaks to everyone who has a zest to discover the hidden treasures it has to offer. So gear up guys as I take you through my favourite places, activities and reasons why Turkey calls out to you.
Gaziantep – We kick-started our trip from Gaziantep which is known to be the city of gastronomy in Turkey. You can book a guided kitchen tour where you get to see famous Turkish delights made from scratch. The pistachios packed Baklava is my favorite dessert from Turkey and did you know that by the 17th-century baklava was made as a special treat for the janissaries in Ramazan.
Another must visit location here is the Gaziantep Castle which is located in the heart of the city and it also stands as a perfect example of their historic past and architecture style that it offers. Locals say that the long history of this castle is truly a mystery and it has emerged after a few excavations conducted here. Can you believe the “Bronze Age” settlement layers are thought to exist under the surface of this very soil? This castle used to be an observation tower during the Roman period. Till date, it stands tall as a restored structure from the Byzantine period.
Halfeti, Sanliurfa – As we moved towards the Eastern part of Turkey, I was blown away with the ancient air it brings along, especially the partially submerged town. We cruised down in this modern man-made lake that also offers breathtaking views of a town piercing the waters.
Make sure to enjoy some fresh watermelons here, along with their special “opium kebabs” and other Turkish delicacies. While on the cruise, you’ll also cross paths with Homla which is now surrounded by water. This sacred and beautiful city of Turkey is also famous for the mystical “Black Rose” that could only be found here since it could only thrive in this soil.
Harran, Saliurfa – We decided to drive very close to the Syrian border, yes we were just 15 kms away from it. To reach the village of Harran, you have to move towards South of Sanliurfa city. This ancient village consists of all the remains of World’s first Islamic University, Ulu Camii. It is a major religious and cultural center that was inhibited way back in the Bronze Age. I loved a personal tour of their beehive homes that are built using mud and hay.
These houses are designed in a way to provide warmth in the winter and during summers, these houses stay cool. P.S. – The residents from the Harran Cultural Center are big Bollywood fans and you can connect with them over these conversations and some Turkish chai.
Gobeklitepe – This is an ancient city in South-Eastern Turkey where startling discoveries have been made and you’ll see massive prehistoric carved stones here that are over 11,000 years old. The archaeologists who first found Gobekli Tepe in the 1960s didn’t think it was anything more than a medieval graveyard. But in the year 1994, thanks to a German archaeologist Klaus Schmidt, it was revealed that something massive is hidden under this land.
After he decided to stay back and continue working on this site, it has been hands down one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in recent history. Thanks to radiocarbon dating, he could announce that this temple discovered here was built 11,500+ years back.
Istanbul – You have to include this city in your Turkey itinerary, where else will you find a place that blends in East with West in such a seamless way? Did you know both the Asian and European sides in Istanbul were once served by a large network of trams.
It’s first-generation tram network initially operated as a horse tram system and was later converted to electric trams during the early 20th Currently in Istanbul there are 3 separate tramway systems. The Asian side has a heritage tramline, whereas the European side has both a heritage tramline and a modern tram system. This location is also at the start of the famous Istiklal street where locals and tourists flock for all kinds of shopping and local Turkish street food.
For a 360-degree view of the city, plan a visit to the Galata Tower. It is towards north of the Golden Horn’s junction with the Bosphorous on the side. My favourite time to visit is around 5 pm when the sun isn’t too harsh. Stay tuned for my top must-see places article in Istanbul.
Nemrut Mountain – Mount Nemrut is one the highest peaks of the Mesopotamia, and its summit at 2,206 metres above the sea level contains the tomb of King Antiochus I of Commagene, commissioned by himself. We woke up at 2 am to drive towards the Mountain Of Gods. Remember to carry sunscreen, water bottles and wear comfortable walking shoes as there will be approximately 30-45 mins of hiking.
This place has been listed in the UNESCO World Heritage sites and once you reach up you’ll see gigantic statues of Gods each weighing 6 tons and approximately 10 metres tall. One can only imagine what kind of efforts went into constructing the tomb. Also, people from all over the world come here to witness a magical sunrise and some even camp the night before so that they are prepped in advance.
Cruising Over The Bosphorous In Istanbul – Wanna see all of Istanbul’s historic sites but pressed for time? Don’t fret as these cruising tours over the Bosphorous will cover it all. Sehir Hatları is Istanbul’s official ferry company and usually, they have three different cruising options – Short Circle Bosphorus Cruise, Full Bosphorus Cruise and the Full Bosphorus Cruise by Night which we opted for.
You also dine on the cruise and it takes you through so many major landmarks of the country. Plus, you also get to travel to the European or the Asian side of Istanbul depending on which tour you go for.
What I loved the most was the fact that they had such fabulous cultural programmes, dances, music, etc lined up throughout the night on the cruise and every table was divided basis their country. So this was a great opportunity to bond with global travelers that shared similar interests. Remember, you can get private yachts too if you want to make it super romantic.
Balikli Gol, Sanliurfa – Balikli Gol, the fish-filled pool behind me happens to be one of the most important landmarks of the region. I have been dying to visit Sanliurfa for this historic location alone.
This place holds so much significance for all Muslims since this is the same place where Prophet Ibrahim was thrown in the fire by Nimrod. He was the same Prophet who was prepared to sacrifice his son for Allah. Abraham is mentioned in three major religions – Christianity, Islam, and Judaism.
Prophet Abraham’s Cave Dergah, Sanliurfa – One of the most visited pilgrimage areas of Turkey, the Dergah district is a complex of mosques and gardens centered around the birth cave of the Prophet Abraham and the pool of sacred carp.
This cave has now been converted into a Dergah. You’ll find the locals and tourists hanging around these beautifully landscaped gardens that also happen to be a common meeting point for everyone. The Dergah is known to be the pride of Sanliurfa and it also is the social centre of the city.
It welcomes people of all faiths, but just make sure to wear clothes that cover your knees and hands and a small scarf or stole around the head works too.
Shopping In Istanbul – Grand Bazaar happens to be one of the largest and oldest covered bazaars in the world. You will find a variety of souvenirs to bring back home, right from carpets, to teas, accessories and bags, Turkish coffees, silver jewellery, hukkas, Turkish delights and more.
This is one location that has 4000+ shops and bargaining skills will always be helpful here. Try not to get lost here as you will be crossing some 60+ streets in this market.
Istiklal Street should be a part of your must-visit shopping places since it will give you a glimpse into the organic Turkish lifestyle through different mediums like their authentic cafes, restaurants, oldest sweet shops, theatres, bars, live street performances and so much more.
You will also spot 1-2 Istanbul’s ruby-red old trams that will pass down the street right next to you on the cobbled road while you shop.
Hopefully, this article will give you a better understanding when it comes to planning your next getaway to Turkey and combining cultural and historical locations. Stay Tuned for my next article to know about the hotels we stayed in Turkey along with shopping hubs and my favorite cuisines, dishes, etc.
