Turkey has a lot to offer for those exploring it by car. Here are some popular destinations and routes to consider:
Istanbul
Istanbul is a must-see destination in Turkey, offering a mix of both modern and historic attractions. Some of the top sights to see in Istanbul by car include:
- Hagia Sophia: A stunning example of Byzantine architecture that has served as a church, mosque, and now a museum.
- Blue Mosque: An iconic mosque with intricate tilework and a distinctive blue hue.
- Topkapi Palace: A sprawling palace complex that served as the residence of the Ottoman sultans.
- Grand Bazaar: A massive covered market with thousands of shops selling everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs.
- Galata Tower: A medieval tower that offers panoramic views of Istanbul and the surrounding area.
- Bosphorus Bridge: A suspension bridge that spans the Bosphorus strait, connecting Europe and Asia.
- Taksim Square: A bustling public square that serves as the heart of modern Istanbul.
- Dolmabahce Palace: An opulent 19th-century palace that features European-style architecture and luxurious interiors.
- Spice Bazaar: A colorful market filled with exotic spices, teas, and sweets.
- Chora Church: A medieval church with stunning mosaics and frescoes that tell the story of Jesus and the Virgin Mary.
Cappadocia
Cappadocia is a historical region located in central Turkey, known for its unique landscape characterized by fairy chimneys, rock formations, and cave dwellings. It is a popular tourist destination, and there are plenty of things to see and do in the area, including:
- Goreme Open Air Museum – an outdoor museum showcasing the region’s cave churches, chapels, and monasteries dating back to the 10th to 12th centuries.
- Hot air balloon ride – a popular way to see the unique landscape of Cappadocia from above.
- Uchisar Castle – an ancient fortress carved into the natural rock formations.
- Kaymakli Underground City – an underground city that was used by early Christians as a refuge.
- Pasabag Valley – a valley with unique rock formations and fairy chimneys that are popular for hiking and sightseeing.
- Love Valley – a valley with interesting rock formations and great views.
- Avanos – a town known for its pottery-making traditions.
- Ihlara Valley – a canyon with a river flowing through it, and several cave churches and monasteries to visit.
- Derinkuyu Underground City – another underground city with tunnels, chambers, and rooms.
- Zelve Open Air Museum – a museum showcasing the region’s cave dwellings and the life of the people who lived in them.
Pamukkale
Pamukkale is a popular tourist destination in Turkey known for its stunning white travertine terraces and thermal pools. Located in the Denizli province of southwestern Turkey, the name Pamukkale translates to “cotton castle” in Turkish due to the white, cotton-like appearance of the terraces.
In addition to the travertine terraces, Pamukkale is home to the ancient Greco-Roman city of Hierapolis, which was built on top of the hot springs. Visitors can explore the ruins of the city, including the impressive theater and the Necropolis, which is home to over 1,200 tombs.
Other attractions in Pamukkale include the Cleopatra Pools, which are fed by natural hot springs and said to have healing properties, and the Pamukkale Archaeological Museum, which features exhibits on the history of the area.
Ephesus
Ephesus is an ancient city located near the town of Selcuk in the Izmir province of Turkey. It was once a thriving port city and one of the largest cities in the Roman Empire. Today, it is an open-air museum and one of Turkey’s top tourist attractions.
Some of the most impressive things to see in Ephesus include:
- The Library of Celsus – a beautifully restored Roman library that once held over 12,000 scrolls.
- The Grand Theater – an enormous theater that once seated over 24,000 people.
- The Temple of Artemis – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- The Terrace Houses – a collection of well-preserved Roman homes with intricate mosaics and frescoes.
- The Ancient City Walls – these walls once encircled the entire city and are still in good condition today.
- The House of the Virgin Mary – a small stone house that is believed to be the final resting place of the Virgin Mary.
- The Cave of the Seven Sleepers – a cave where seven young men are said to have slept for hundreds of years to avoid religious persecution.
- The Isabey Mosque – a beautiful mosque built in the 14th century with intricate tilework and Islamic calligraphy.
- The Temple of Hadrian – a well-preserved temple that was built in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian.
- The Odeon – a small theater that was used for concerts and political debates in ancient times.
In addition to these attractions, visitors to Ephesus can also explore the city’s ancient streets, visit the onsite museum, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Antalya
Antalya is a popular coastal city in southern Turkey known for its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and vibrant nightlife. Here are some places to see in Antalya by car:
- Old Town (Kaleici): The historic quarter of Antalya, Kaleici, is a charming area full of narrow, winding streets and old Ottoman houses. It is also home to the Hadrian’s Gate, a well-preserved Roman triumphal arch built in 130 AD.
- Antalya Museum: The Antalya Museum is one of the best museums in Turkey, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage from ancient times to the present day.
- Duden Waterfalls: The Duden Waterfalls are a series of cascading waterfalls located in the Duden River Valley. You can take a scenic drive up to the falls and then walk along the riverbank to take in the views.
- Perge: Perge is an ancient city that was once a major trading center in the Mediterranean region. The ruins of the city include a well-preserved Roman theater, stadium, and public baths.
- Aspendos: Aspendos is another ancient city near Antalya that is famous for its stunning Roman theater, which is still used for performances today.
- Konyaalti Beach: Konyaalti Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Antalya, with clear turquoise waters and stunning views of the Taurus Mountains.
- Olympos: Olympos is a small village located in a valley that is home to an ancient Lycian city, as well as some stunning beaches and a national park.
- Termessos: Termessos is an ancient city located high in the mountains above Antalya. It is known for its well-preserved ruins and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Bodrum
Bodrum is a popular coastal city in southwestern Turkey known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and historical landmarks. Some of the top things to see and do in Bodrum include:
- Bodrum Castle: This iconic landmark was built by the Knights of St. John in the 15th century and is one of the most well-preserved medieval castles in the world.
- Bodrum Amphitheatre: This ancient Greek amphitheater was built in the 4th century BC and is still used for concerts and other performances today.
- Mausoleum at Halicarnassus: One of the seven wonders of the ancient world, this mausoleum was built in the 4th century BC for King Mausolus and is now in ruins.
- Bodrum Marina: This is one of the most popular places in the city to go for a walk, grab a coffee, or have a meal while enjoying the beautiful view of the sea.
- Bodrum Bazaar: This lively market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, handmade crafts, and local goods.
- Beaches: Bodrum is known for its stunning beaches, including Bodrum City Beach, Gumbet Beach, and Bitez Beach, where you can sunbathe, swim, and enjoy water sports.
- Yalikavak: This charming seaside town is located just a few miles from Bodrum and is known for its picturesque marina, upscale shops, and trendy restaurants.
- Bodrum Underwater Archaeology Museum: This museum houses an impressive collection of ancient artifacts and treasures that have been discovered in the waters around Bodrum.
- St. Peter’s Castle: This castle was built by the Knights of St. John in the 14th century and offers a stunning view of the city and the sea.
- Windmills: The windmills in Bodrum are a popular tourist attraction and offer a great photo opportunity. They are located on a hill overlooking the city and the sea.
The Black Sea coast
The Black Sea coast of Turkey is a beautiful and unique region that offers a variety of attractions for visitors to explore by car. Some of the highlights include:
- Amasra: a charming coastal town with a historic castle, picturesque streets, and stunning beaches.
- Safranbolu: a well-preserved Ottoman town with beautiful architecture and charming streets.
- Trabzon: a historic port city with a fascinating old town, the stunning Sumela Monastery, and the Hagia Sophia Museum.
- Sile: a small town with beautiful beaches, a historic lighthouse, and a traditional fishing harbor.
- Rize: a scenic town surrounded by mountains and tea plantations, with a beautiful castle and traditional wooden houses.
- Giresun: a port town with a historic castle, beautiful beaches, and stunning views of the sea.
- Ordu: a town with a beautiful coastal promenade, historic sites, and scenic views of the sea and mountains.
- Uzungol: a stunning mountain lake surrounded by forests, with beautiful walking trails and picturesque villages nearby.
The Taurus Mountains
The Taurus Mountains is a mountain range in southern Turkey that runs parallel to the Mediterranean coast. It is a popular destination for tourists who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, and mountain climbing. The Taurus Mountains offer stunning views, waterfalls, and unique rock formations. One of the most popular attractions in the Taurus Mountains is the ancient city of Termessos, which is situated on a mountain peak and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Other popular destinations in the Taurus Mountains include the Olympos National Park, the Saklikent Canyon, and the Düden Waterfalls.
The Turkish coastline
Turkey has a stunning coastline that stretches for over 8,000 kilometers. Here are some of the most beautiful spots to visit by car:
- The Turquoise Coast (also known as the Turkish Riviera) is a stretch of coastline along the Mediterranean Sea known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque bays.
- The Aegean Coast, with its charming fishing villages and ancient ruins, is another popular area to explore by car.
- The Lycian Way, a 540-kilometer hiking trail that follows the coast of southwestern Turkey, offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- The Datça Peninsula, located in southwestern Turkey, is known for its rugged coastline, unspoiled beaches, and charming villages.
- The Karpuzkaldiran Beach near Antalya is a stunning beach with crystal-clear waters and beautiful views of the Taurus Mountains.
- The Kas Peninsula, a beautiful peninsula located on the Mediterranean coast, is known for its crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and ancient ruins.
- The Dilek Peninsula National Park, located on the Aegean Coast, is home to beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and ancient ruins.
- The Bodrum Peninsula, located on the Aegean Coast, is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively nightlife.
- The Fethiye Peninsula, located in southwestern Turkey, is known for its rugged coastline, stunning beaches, and turquoise waters.
- The Çeşme Peninsula, located on the Aegean Coast, is known for its beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and charming villages.
The Bosphorus
The Bosphorus is a narrow strait located in Istanbul, Turkey that connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. It is an important waterway for international trade and a popular tourist destination, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline and landmarks such as the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque. There are several ways to experience the Bosphorus, including taking a sightseeing cruise, crossing the Bosphorus Bridge, or simply strolling along its banks.
The most beautiful islands of Turkey
Turkey has several beautiful islands that are worth visiting. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- Bozcaada: Located in the Aegean Sea, Bozcaada is known for its crystal-clear waters, beaches, vineyards, and charming cobblestone streets.
- Gökçeada: Another island located in the Aegean Sea, Gökçeada is the largest island in Turkey and is known for its natural beauty, unspoiled beaches, and traditional Greek villages.
- Büyükada: One of the Princes’ Islands located in the Sea of Marmara, Büyükada is a popular day-trip destination from Istanbul. The island is known for its historic mansions, horse-drawn carriages, and scenic views.
- Kekova: Located in the Mediterranean Sea, Kekova is known for its stunning turquoise waters, hidden coves, and ancient ruins, including a sunken city.
- Marmara Island: Another island located in the Sea of Marmara, Marmara Island is known for its quiet beaches, olive groves, and historic sites, including an ancient Roman city.
- Bozburun Peninsula: Although not technically an island, the Bozburun Peninsula is a popular destination for those looking for a quiet seaside getaway. The peninsula is known for its picturesque fishing villages, crystal-clear waters, and scenic hikes.
Campsites in Turkey
There are many campsites in Turkey that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are a few options:
- Kusadasi Long Beach Camping: Located in the Aegean region, this campsite offers sea views, a sandy beach, and a swimming pool.
- Olympos Mocamp: Located in the Antalya region, this campsite is surrounded by a lush forest and offers bungalows, tents, and a restaurant.
- Butterfly Valley Camping: Located in the Fethiye region, this campsite offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and Butterfly Valley, and is accessible only by boat or hiking.
- Kabak Camping: Located in the Fethiye region, this eco-friendly campsite is surrounded by mountains and offers tents, bungalows, and a restaurant.
- Istanbul Camping Park: Located in Istanbul, this campsite is conveniently located near the city center and offers camping facilities as well as bungalows and caravans.
It’s always best to check online for up-to-date information on campsites in Turkey, as new ones may open and others may close over time.
Parking in Turkey
Parking in Turkey can vary depending on the city or location. In big cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, parking can be a challenge due to high traffic and limited parking spots. In some areas, parking may be restricted and require a parking permit.
There are also paid parking lots or parking garages available in many cities. These usually charge an hourly or daily rate. Some hotels or accommodation options may also offer parking for their guests.
It’s important to pay attention to parking signs and regulations to avoid getting a ticket or having your car towed. It’s also recommended to avoid leaving valuables in your car while parked.
Ferries in Turkey
Turkey has a well-developed network of ferries that connect its cities and towns, as well as its islands, with each other. Some of the most popular ferry routes in Turkey include Istanbul to Izmir, Istanbul to Bodrum, and Bodrum to Kos (in Greece). There are also ferries that operate between the Turkish mainland and Cyprus.
Ferries in Turkey are operated by several different companies, including the national operator, Türkiye Denizcilik İşletmeleri (Turkish Maritime Lines), as well as private operators such as İDO (Istanbul Fast Ferries Co.).
Ferry prices in Turkey vary depending on the route, the operator, and the time of year. It’s best to check with the ferry company for specific prices and schedules.