If you are seeking the best travel destination for your trip in 2024, choose Turkey this time. There are countless reasons why you must select Turkey, as the country is known for its
fascinating history, intricate architecture, breathtaking scenery, lovely people, and the best shopping hub. Turkey is considered one of the best tourist destinations across the globe as all Cities in Turkey have something for everybody. The destination is not only renowned for a variety of beaches and jewels but is also home to some of the remarkable museums with a real essence of history.
Here is the list of Top 20 Popular Cities in Turkey:
- Istanbul
- Antalya
- Ankara
- Konya
- Izmir
- Bursa
- Fethiye
- Samsun
- Trabzon
- Adana
- Marmaris
- Bodrum
- Edirne
- Safranbolu
- Van
- Amasya
- Kemer
- Şanlıurfa
- Çeşme
- Mersin
Table of Contents
Popular Cities in Turkey
Some most popular cities in Turkey are a fusion of East and West, modern and traditional, which makes it worth visiting the destination once in your lifetime. Below are the top 20 popular cities in Turkey to visit. Whether you want a unique experience or to explore beautiful scenery, your visit to these below-listed places will make your trip memorable:
Istanbul
It is one of the best places in Turkey that you must visit once in your lifetime. It is known for its stunning landscapes and rich heritage that attracts travelers globally. It is one of the popular city break destinations where you can spend weeks and still discover new things to see and shop. Here the street life is youthful and buzzing; however,
it’s Turkey’s most extensive and populated metropolis and is a city of contrasts. It is a soothing and timeless city with a magnificent river full of life, colors, and smells. Also, when in Istanbul, you must try some local foods; the city is an absolute paradise for shopping enthusiasts as well. To get an amazing authentic taste of Istanbul, visit Arnavutköy of the city’s nightlife, where you can enjoy the most.
Places to Visit
- Hagia Sophia
- The Blue Mosque
- The Grand Bazaar
- The Chora Church
- The Galata Tower
Best time to visit Istanbul – April to October
Things to do
- Walk around the Galata Bridge
- Topkapi Palace Tour Cruise in Bosphorus Strait
Antalya
After Istanbul, Antalya is counted among the most visited cities in Turkey with its mild climate and stunning landscapes. It has a shining coastline with beautiful beaches also known for its rich history and architecture. It is one of the ancient Turkish cities that is home to many archeological sites that preserve ruins and remains.
Also known as the paradise on earth, the city is blessed with not only an amazing climate but also gorgeous ancient sights. Also, it is home to many ancient structures, ancient towns, and natural beauty. The place is also perfect for people seeking the best nightlife as the city comes alive with the beats of music at bars, clubs, and pubs.
Places to visit
- Hadrian’s Gate
- Antalya Museum
- Aspendos
- Old Harbor
- Yivli Minare
Best time to visit – months between March to May and September to November
Things to do
- Nightlife in Kaleiçi
- Leisure at Konyaaltı Beach
- Hiking at Köprülü Canyon National Park
Ankara
Ankara is one of the must-visit cities in Turkey. Its captivating blend of ancient landmarks, contemporary amenities, and cultural attractions makes it known for its historical significance as well as its modern allure. The city has a youthful, unmatchable vibe and is home to several embassies, amazing cafes, fine restaurants, and many more. It is counted among the best Places to Visit in Turkey,
where tourists can witness the grandeur of Turkish history as the city is a blend of Roman and Ottoman influences. Here, you can explore many museums that have ancient relics. Also, you can explore vibrant markets in Ankara that contain Turkish artifacts, mohair, fine fruits, and wheat.
Places to visit
- Anitkabir
- Museum of Anatolian Civilization’s
- Ankara Castle
- Haci Bayram Mosque
- Museum of the War of Independence
Best time to visit – Months of April to June or between September to November.
Things to do in Ankara
- Souvenir hunting
- Tour the Rahmi M. Koc Muzesi
Konya
Konya is a city in Turkey popular among travelers owing to its rich cultural heritage and historical importance. This Turkish city is among the best cities and is the home of the Mevlana Museum, as many visitors flock every year to explore the museum’s mesmerizing exhibits. The museum displays some rare manuscripts, Rumi’s mausoleum and artifacts etc. Also, the city boasts many architectural marvels like Alaadin Mosque that showcase exclusive Ottoman design and craftsmanship.
It is considered the oldest inhabited city worldwide, well known for its architectural wonders, Turkish cuisine, and Sufi Mystic traditions which makes it the must-visit destination in Turkey. Visitors must taste Konya’s signature dishes like Etli Ekmek and Buryan.
Places to visit
- Tile Museum
- Museum of Wooden and Stone Carving
- Alaeddin Tepe
- Archaeological Museum
- Çatalhöyük
Best time to visit – Months from April to June
Things to do
- Visit the Alaeddin Hill
- Take a tour of Karatay Medresesi Museum
Izmir
Izmir is Turkey’s third-largest city and is also known as the Aegean Pearl. It is a bustling metropolis known for its shopping and vibrant nightlife. This Turkish city is a popular university town with many young students, which gives it a youthful and lively vibe. It also offers a blend of historical, cultural, and archeological sites.
It is said to be a great place to visit if you wish to dive into Turkish culture and enjoy the unique history deeply. Tourists can explore the bustling bazaars of the city that have vibrant and lively energy and also visit world-renowned sites to stunning natural marvels, which make this place the perfect option for everyone from a foodie traveler to a history lover.
Places to visit
- Izmir Agora
- Ephesus
- Pergamon Acropolis
- Hierapolis-Pamukkale
- Village of Şirince
Best time to visit – months between May to August
Things to do
- Explore the best beaches and islands
- Go Kitesurfing
- Visit the Agora Archaeological Site of Smyrna
Also Read: Famous Landmarks in Europe
Bursa
Bursa is one of the historical and popular cities in Turkey. The city is known for its bustling markets, serene mosques, and lush gardens. It is also full of mosques, monuments, and many other attractions from the early years of the Ottoman Empire. It is also the perfect place for food lovers as it is the base for Turkey’s Iskender kebab, the most delicious kebab dish in the country.
Bursa can be easily accessible from Istanbul by ferries and thena a short bus ride and is an excellent stop-off point for Turkey trips as well. The city offers the best cuisine with mouthwatering food and numerous top dishes. The place is a genuinely must-visit destination in Turkey that every tourist must visit.
Places to visit
- Uludag
- Ulu Cami
- Koza Han Caravansary
- Yesil Turbe
- Traditional Cumalikizik Village
Best time to visit – Months from April to June
Things to do
- Take a tour of the Grand Mosque Bursa
- Cable car up to Uludag Mountain
- Spend time at Tophane Park
Fethiye
Fethiye, a port city in Turkey well known for its natural harbor and turquoise blue water, is a must-visit tourist destination. The postcard-worthy backdrop, with dense forests, a blue coastline, and small islands, makes it an excellent place for a beach vacation.
The city enjoys a secluded landscape and has one of the most stunning natural harbors in the country. The place has many ancient ruins, and in spite of that, it enjoys a cosmopolitan vibe with bustling bazaars and a chill nightlife.
The city is also popular among tourists for boat day trips, with about 12 islands nearby, and is also the starting point for numerous yachts for multi-day tours. The destination is perfect for adventure seekers who crave paragliding, hiking, and simply relaxing on a beach.
Places to visit
- Fethiye Museum
- Ruins of Xanthos
- Butterfly Valley
- Saklikent National Park
- Gizlikent Waterfall
Best time to visit – Months amid June and September
Things to do
- Take a cruise from the Harbour on the Yacht
- Hike through Saklikent Gorge
- Paraglide over Oludeniz Lagoon
Samsun
Samsung is located on the Black Sea Coast and offers stunning views of the sea as well as parks. It is one of the great Turley cities to explore, where tourists can explore archaeological sites, shop in bazaars, and visit various mosques. The city is a perfect destination for travelers seeking outdoor adventure, as it offers hiking trails and fishing villages.
This Turkish city has everything for everyone, whether you are a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or an adventure seeker. It is also an entertainment city as it includes many gardens, parks, and shopping centers and provides services and facilities like cafes and restaurants. It is best to rent a car in Samsun to explore the city.
Places to visit
- Amisos Hill
- Gazi Museum
- Dogu Park
- Samsun City Museum
- Cakirlar Village
Best time to visit – Months between June to September
Things to do
- Visit Bandirma Vapuru Muzesi
- Shop at Piazza Avm shopping mall
- Kabak Ceviz Waterfalls
Trabzon
Trabzon is among the favorite and famous cities in Turkey known for its natural beauty, history, food, and culture. The town is nestled in the Pontic mountains and offers many stunning surrounding areas. The destination holds exclusive tourist value owing to its location and combination of blue sea and greenery and offers many tourist attractions that attract visitors worldwide.
The place is a winter destination and is perfect for people who wish to engage in sports like skiing and snowball throwing. The destination offers plenty of water sports for travelers, like snorkeling, surfing, kitesurfing, rafting, tubing, and diving. The city will make your Turkey trip special as when you visit the place, you will not only explore soaring mosques or Byzantine churches but also wander through bustling markets filled with many traditional things.
Places to visit
- Sumela Monastery
- Trabzon Hagia Sophia Mosque
- St. Anne’s Church
- Cal cave
- Uzungol Lake
Best time to visit – months of March to May and September to November
Things to do
- Enjoy Trabzon Pide
- Explore local Trabzon’s markets
- Try out cooking classes to get hands-on with Turkish cuisine
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Europe with Friends
Adana
Adana is one of the best cities and an excellent spot for those who wish to enjoy authentic vacations. The city has plenty to offer visitors from Stone Bridge or Sabanci mosque. This Turkish city is the fourth largest and most populous place in Turkey and is the major and most preferred tourist location.
People visit the destination of the largest mosque in Turkey, the Seyhan River, and enjoy the Adana Kebabs. Being Turkey’s fourth largest city, Adana is the center of the agricultural region that produces oats, citrus fruits, sesame, and many more. The city boasts many historical sites, modern cafes, and bars that cataract tourists worldwide.
Places to visit
- AdanaStone Bridge
- Adana Central Park
- Sabanci Central Mosque
Best time to visit – months of March to June and October to November
Things to do
- Day trip to Tarsus
- Explore the underground canvas of Heaven and Hell
- Visit Karatepe Aslantas Open Air Museum
Marmaris
Marmaris is another one of the popular destinations in Turkey. The city showcases stunning views of Turkish waters that will make you fall in love. The place is a center of attraction for tourists especially those who love sun-kissed pictures and golden sands. If you are a traveler who seeks outdoor adventures or cultural experiences or needs a break from your hectic schedule,
Marmaris is the best option for you, as the place is an amazing blend of party hubs, beaches, and many cultural mysteries. Marmaris is where the Thomson Cruise strat gives a tour of about all prominent places to see in Turkey. These places include main places like Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque, and many others.
Places to visit
- Marmaris Castle
- Icemler and Cleopatra Beach
- Grand Bazaar
- Marmaris Marina
- Quad Safari
Best time to visit – months of May, June, September and October
Things to do
- Scuba diving
- Rafting
- Jeep Safari Tour
Bodrum
Bodrum is among the best places to visit and a popular vacation spot in Turkey. The palace was a pleasant fishing village in the past and now attracts people with its colorful environment. There’s no better way for visitors to explore Bodrum’s coastline than by yacht.
The peninsula is surrounded by numerous islands and more than 100 inlets that provide a wealth of beautiful places to explore, particularly by boat.. The entire Bodrum city is fully packed with historical sights and is small, walkable, and very easy to navigate. Here, tourists will get everything from local handicrafts to the best spas, top-tier yachting, and delicious food.
Places to visit
- Bodrum castle
- Bodrum Museum Underwater
- Bitez beach
- Bodrum Marina
- Bodrum old town
Best time to visit – Months of June to September
Things to do
- Watersports at Gumbet Beach
- Boat tour at Bodrum
- Buy Souvenirs at Bodrum Bazaar
Edirne
Edirne is an old city located near the borders of Turkey that has a fascinating past of the Ottoman Empire and is now a popular tourist spot. It is among the preferred destinations, especially for history and cultural lovers. The city is also a gateway to Asia, where you can discover striking architecture along with rich local cuisine. The town is popular for its beautiful mosques and grand historical bazaar.
A visit can explore the city’s history in museums here also the area around the city is one of many highly regarded wineries as well. The best part is Edirne’s Cuisine, as you can pop into the finest restaurant here to enjoy the local taste. However the place is not as popular as Izmir but has some of the major and finest Ottoman attractions.
Places to visit
- Selimiye Mosque
- Ali Pasha Bazaar
- Sultan Bayezid II Mosque Complex
- Edrine museum
- Visit Fatih Bridge
Best time to visit – Months of June to August
Things to do
- Enjoy a giant Turkish breakfast
- Shop at Alipasha Bazaar
- Try local speciality Edirne cigeri
Also Read: Must Visit Lakes in Europe
Safranbolu
Safranbolu is among the Best Cities To Visit In Turkey if you are heading towards the vast central Anatolia region. The city has many tourist attractions and the best things to do, and it is also a UNESCO-listed town that attracts travelers and soaks in its atmosphere. The place is unique not only because of its history but the city is covered with saffron plants and is known as Saffron City.
It is a hillside historical city full of adventure with a collection of beautifully renovated Ottoman houses. Many bazaars are worth visiting as well. The place also represents the world’s famous Turkish cuisine, which tourists must try out, like Safranbolu Bukme, Safranbolu Baklava, etc.
Places to visit
- Cam Terrace
- Safranbolu Castle
- Koprulu Mehmet Pasha Mosque
- Museum of History
- Incekaya Aqueduct
Best time to visit – Months of April to October
Things to do
- Yemeniciler Bazaar
- Bulk Cave visit
- Cinci Hamam
Van
Van, a city in Turkey and a hidden gem in eastern Turkey, is a significant transit point for visitors before or after crossing Iran. It is popular owing to a series of earthquakes that occurred in 2011. Van’s architecture is well-known and appreciated and is thoroughly modern. The city has a mixed population of Turks, Syric Christians,
Armenians, Kurds, and Yezidis. It is not only known for its history and architecture but is also a perfect destination for foodies. Van offers many unique experiences and the best places to explore and is renowned for its distinctive food culture, especially Turkish breakfast spreads.
Places to visit
- Akdamar island
- Van Museum
- Lake Van
- Van castle
- Varagavank Monastery
Best time to visit – Months of May, June, September and October
Things to do
- Play with cats at Cat House
- Shop at Kapikoy
- Enjoy the famous Van Breakfast
Amasya
Although Amasya is a small city today, it was previously the capital of the Kingdom of Pontus. The place is beautiful on its own and has the best tourist attractions, with plenty of ambiance and options to soak up the views. The city has an explained natural beauty of the Black Sea and is a perfect blend of mother nature and history, which makes it a tailored destination.
It is a charming city and is an ideal option for those who appreciate beauty and history and are seeking a beautiful Turkish city to dive into deep history.
Places to visit
- Amasya Castle
- Rock Tombs of Pontic Kings
- Shahzades Museum
- Ferhat Water Channel
- Sabuncuoglu Medical and Surgical History Museum
Best time to visit – Months of April to October
Things to do
- Camping
- Cycling
- Shopping
Also Read: Best Things To Do In Turkey
Kemer
Kemer is a part of Turkish Riviera and is a seaside resort on Turley’s southern Mediattrean coast well known for its pebble and a large marina. This coastal town has beautiful pine forests of Olympos Beydaglari National Park in the backdrop where cable cars run. The visitors flock, especially in cool evening hours, to shop and enjoy in coffeehouses.
Kemer is popular among tourists owing to its natural beauty of parks and orange trees that can be found everywhere in forests, sea, and mountains. Do visit Kemer if you wish to see the clarity of the sea, greenery, and sunshades of pine trees. It is said to be the perfect destination to enjoy with children because it has the purest sea water which even kids will enjoy.
Places to visit
- Phaselis Ancient City
- Stroll down in Yoruk Park
- Rafting at Koprulu Canyon
- Visit Hamam
- Ride Olympos Teleferik
Best time to visit – Months of May to October
Thing to do
- Sunbathe at Kemer Beach
- Hike to Mount Chimaera
- Excursion in Pirate Boat
Şanlıurfa
It is an ideal Turkey destination when visiting the oldest temple in the world, named as Gobekli Tepe. The site is just thirty minutes by road from Sanliurfa. However, the place has its charm and is worth visiting once in a lifetime. It is a popular pilgrimage site for those who believe in three faiths: Jewish,
Christian, and Islamic. The place has many interesting sights that will amke you feel an old connection with the city. The rich history and fascinating sites both make this place one of the Most Beautiful and Famous Cities in Turkey to visit.
Places to visit
- Balikli Gol
- Dargah Complex
- Urfa Castle
- Gobekli Tepe
- Sanliurfa’s bustling Bazaar
Best time to visit – winter months are best
Things to do
- Try the popular dish Cig Kofte
- Try Urfa’s famous desert, Sillik
- Experience traditional Urfa Music here
Çeşme
It is a beautiful, unexplored coastal town in Turkey and is among the nicest places in terms of landscapes. It is a seaside city fully packed with natural beauty, history, and culture and offers the best fresh food, nightlife, and amusement. There are many things travelers can enjoy here as it is a vibrant and welcoming town where you can explore ancient ruins and can also relax on sandy beaches.
Despite being a hidden gem, Cesme has many things to offer, from water sports and sunbathing to cultural experiences and amazing food. Also tourists can enjoy windsurfing and kitesurfing as it is considered a popular destination for adventure seekers craving for these.
Places to visit
- Cesme Town square
- Cesme Castle
- Statue of Cezayirli Gazi Hasan Paşa
- Agios Haralambos Church
- Cesme Marina
Best time to visit – Months of June to September
Things to do
- Shopping at Inkilap Caddesi
- Stroll through Cesme’s traditional houses in Cesme town
- A Gulet Boat Trip
Also Read: Places to Visit in Turkey
Mersin
Mercin is a beautiful; sun kissed city of Turkey with long beaches and enchanting inlets. Not only famous for its cultural wealth, the place has natural beauty and is excellent because it is considered a quiet spot. The city has the largest seaport in Turkey and is also a getaway to Tarsus, a pilgrimage site of Chistians.
The best part of the city is that the entire town has installed solar panels. Plan a trip definitely, as Mercin has everything from ancient cities to mountain retreats and is a treasure trove of experiences that are still undiscovered.
Places to visit
- Maiden’s Castle
- Mersin Marina
- Mature Castle
- Alahan Monastery
- Tarsus Waterfall
Best time to visit – months of June to October
Things to do
- Enjoy watersports
- Go for shopping
- Explore historical mosques
Conclusion
The above list of the most visited cities in Turkey is a captivating combination of diverse cultures ancient history, along with stunning and mesmerising natural beauty. The destinations promise a memorable experience for every traveler. Plan your visit to this amazing country to explore its gorgeous mosques, magnificent natural attractions, cuisine, handicrafts, and culture. Plan your tour Now to enjoy your vacation in 2024 in Turkey.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a famous city in Turkey?
Istanbul is one of the many famous cities in Turkey.
Which city is more beautiful in Turkey?
Following Istanbul, Cappadocia is the most beautiful city in Turkey.
Is Turkey a cheap destination?
Turkey is known to be a cheap and budget-friendly destination. However, your trip will be affordable or expensive and will depend upon your own choices and preferences.
What is the number 1 city in Turkey?
Istanbul is considered as the number 1 city in Turkey, fully packed with ancient sights, fantastic palaces, and delightful mosques.
What is Turkey famous for?
Turkey is famous for its stunning beaches, historical sites, delicious food, and Turkish baths.
Which city in Turkey is cheaper?
Osmania is considered as the cheapest city in Turkey in terms of cost of living.
What is Turkish food called?
Turkish food is called Turkish cuisine, be it main course, desserts, appetizers, or juices; Turkish dishes will definitely surprise your taste buds.
What things are cheap in Turkey?
Many things in Turkey are cheap, including hotels, cafes, restaurants, clothes, shoes, and souvenirs.