Turkey has spanned across both Europe and Asia. A huge number of people live in Western Asia and the remaining part of the country lives in South Eastern Europe. This depicts that Turkey has a diverse culture and historical heritage that has a blend of both continents. Tourists are always interested to get a detailed plan which outlines travel routes of different cities of Turkey. Every tourist should be well aware of accommodation details which includes complete locations of the cities. In this article, we have explained the best time to visit different cities of Turkey which includes the weather conditions there. We have given complete details of the places where travelers usually stay such as hotels. We have also kept in mind about the enjoyable events that visitors typically like to experience during their visit to various cities of Turkey.
Travel Dates for Turkey
While we discuss Turkey Trip Itinerary, tourists are offered with a rich tapestry of cultural, historical, and natural wonders when they visit Turkey. People who are planning to visit Turkey should select the right travel dates that will greatly enhance their experience. The climate in Turkey is diverse and variations in seasons impact the enjoyment of its many attractive places for the visitors.
Spring (March to May):
Many people decide to visit Turkey in the spring season, as the season is a delightful time especially taking interest in exploring historical sites available in the country.During the spring season, tourists enjoy the weather as pleasantly mild. In this season, the temperature usually ranges between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F).The city Istanbul has blooming gardens and streets are less crowded with transports, which invites people from all over the world.
The famous tulip festival is usually decorated every month of April, which adds vibrant colors to the parks in its cities. Travelers experience a breathtaking landscape along with lush greenery of cities like Konya and Cappadocia. These cities are present in central Anatolia, Turkey and have moderate temperatures. Antalya is one of the coastal regions in Turkey and people enjoy its favorable weather especially when they visit beaches, and perform outdoor activities such as playing frisbee and windsurfing.
Summer (June to August):
The summer season in Turkey is very hot as the temperature in this season ranges above 35°C (95°F). Travelers are seen uncomfortable in inland areas and southeastern regions of Turkey.However, the summer is considered to be the high tourist season and you will find a bustling environment in coastal resorts and beaches in this season. Many travelers found in Mediterranean and Aegean coasts are beach goers and enthusiasts about water sports. Beach goers mostly travel to the places in Bodrum and Marmaris where several beautiful beaches are located. Many people prefer this season to explore cultural festivals such as music festivals, arts festivals, ballet and culinary festivals. But travelers are prepared for higher prices and larger crowds to attend these cultural festivals.
Autumn (September to November):
Travelers consider Autumn as an excellent season to visit Turkey. In this cool season, the temperature of the country ranges from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Tourists experience a more relaxed environment as compared to the summer season. In this season, the Black Sea coast and the northern parts of Anatolia demonstrate awesome, cooler and attractive landscapes. In Autumn season, nearby restaurants and markets offer pumpkin soup, roasted chestnuts, grapes, apples, pomegranates and walnuts to the visitors.
Winter (December to February):
Winter in Turkey presents a quieter and more calm atmosphere for the tourists and local peasants. The inland and coastal areas of Antalya which are present in Cappadocia and Eastern Anatolia are covered with snowfall due to temperature of 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).
Many travelers love skiing, snowboarding and ice skating, and visit resorts in Uludağ or Palandöken. As winter weather in Turkey is quite chilly and rainy, therefore the season is considered to be off-peak for tourism and people who prefer warm climate over colder.This is the reason that Istanbul is less crowded and offers less noisy and peaceful cultural sites.People select the right time to visit Turkey according to their interests and experiences such as some people like to explore ancient ruins. Some people enjoy beach holidays only. And other people are interested in experiencing cultural festivals held in Istanbul and Anatolia.
Cities and places to visit in Turkey:
As the territory of Turkey extends across Europe and Asia, therefore many destinations in the country are captivating for the travelers. Turkey is known for its ancient ruins and beautiful cities which feels breathtaking when offered with natural landscapes.
Istanbul
Istanbul is a city where tourists like to visit because it spans Europe and Asia and unhides the fascinating history and lively culture there. Tourists visit Hagia Sophia and explore the amazing architecture of Byzantine, which was once a church then turned into a mosque later on. The Blue Mosque which is also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is situated on the European side of the city Istanbul. The mosque is known for its historical landmarks with six minarets and beautiful blue tiles. Travelers also visit the Grand bazar which is the oldest, very lively and crowded with people. People are amazed to see Ottoman coins, persian rugs, vintage jewelry and traditional Turkish lamps and many more.
Cappadocia
Cappadocia is special for fairy chimneys and hot air balloon rides. Tourists from all over the world get a chance to float high above in the sky to see beautiful and amazing views, moreover they capture fantastic photos. The amazing views include rocky valleys, their unique shapes and color of rocks are red, pink and white. Tourists also explore the underground cities which have been carved out as a result of volcanic rocks. These scenes fascinate them with the glimpse of ancient ways of life.
Pamukkale
Travelers usually visit Pamukkale to see beautiful white terraces. These white terraces are the rocks that are light colored and formed in hot springs. People are overwhelmed to see the water flowing from these terraces. The white terraces resemble frozen waterfalls and also provide healing benefits such as soothing joint pain and arthritis problems. People are allowed to take bath in the thermal water, but they are not permissible to swim. Tourists also visit the ancient city of Hierapolis and explore the ruins of ancient times and well preserved Roman theater.
Ephesus
People come and visit the Library of Celsus which is an ancient grand building, inside the building there are well preserved scrolls and manuscripts related to history and literature. The building also serves as a tomb of a Roman senator whose name was Tiberius Julius Celsus. He was the senator who funded the construction of the building. The building is famous as it was once a trading hub where Roman people performed exchange of goods such as textiles, spices, oils and precious metals. Basically, Ephesus had served as a trade route for merchants and traders. People also praise visiting other famous historical sites such as the Great Theatre and Temple of Artemis which was once a religious symbol for Romans.
Antalya,
Antalya is an amazing city and well known for its beautiful beaches and old town of Kaleiçi.Tourists experience a blend of historical attractions of ancient Roman Hadrian’s Gate. It is a well preserved tomb of Emperor Hadrian. The gate is beautifully designed with decorative marbles. These marbles have been collected from Mount Pentelicus in Greece which are known as Pentelic marble. Tourists also see the art work of carvings of deities like Nike, who was believed to be the goddess of victory by Romans.
Bodrum
Bodrum is highly appreciated for its coastal gem by the tourists, it is famed for its lively nightlife, it has beautiful beaches with feelings of paradise, and the well preserved Bodrum Castle. The castle consists of houses of the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. The museum of Bodrum showcases artifacts from ancient shipwrecks.
Trabzon
People who visit Turkey must decide to go to Trabzon, which is located on the Black Sea. Tourists experience beautiful green hills and ancient places such as the Sumela Monastery. It is situated high up on a cliff. The monastery is a special spot where travelers get the opportunity to learn about the history of monks who lived there, so that they can admire the rich history and natural beauty of the remarkable city.
Details about where the travelers will stay:
Turkey is the right place for an enjoyable trip for tourists. It has a rich history, offers a diverse landscape to travelers from all over the world. It has a vibrant culture and provides a wide range of options for accommodations. Affordable tourists find luxury hotels and comfortable guest houses here. All the travelers are facilitated with several types of accommodations according to their demand and affordability. Here is a detailed look at these places:
Four Season Hotel in Istanbul
Many couples spend their anniversary trip to Istanbol to be really special. For this, they usually consider the Four Seasons Hotel in Istanbul, which is situated in the Sultanahmet region near Tevkifhane Sokak. The windows of the hotel provide the beautiful scenes of Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. A lot of tourist families eat dinner by enjoying these breathtaking views.
- Location: Tevkifhane Sokak No: 1, Sultanahmet, Istanbul
- Features: Luxurious rooms and offers beautiful views of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque from inside.
Marmara Taksim
Tourists who are rich prefer to stay in this luxury hotel which is situated in Taksim Square, Istanbul. People enjoy visiting local cafes that offer them Turkish foods such as kebabs,mezes, pide, lahmacun etc. Travelers spend their night life in bright clubs and cool spots to enjoy cultural music and cultural dancing named as Halay.
- Location: Taksim Meydani 1, Istanbul
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel in Cappadocia
- Location: Sultanahmet Meydani No: 1
Museum Hotel in Cappadocia
- Location: Tekelli Mahallesi No: 1, Uchisar
- Features: Tourists are facilitated with luxury and panoramic views of the fairy chimneys
Argos in Cappadocia
- Location: Kayakapi Mahallesi No: 86, Ürgüp
Kelebek Special Cave Hotel
- Location: Aydınlı Mahallesi No: 11, Göreme
Regnum Carya Golf & Resort Hotel situated in Antalya
- Location: Kadriye Beldesi, Belek, Antalya
- Features: The hotel offers beach access and a golf course if any tourist is interested.
Tuvana Hotel, Antalya
- Location: Tuvana Sokak No: 8, Kaleici, Antalya
Swissotel Büyük Efes İzmir
- Location: Alsancak Mahallesi, Kucukpark, No: 129, Izmir
- Features: The hotel offers elegant rooms and excellent facilities to the visitors.
Key Hotel
- Location: Cumhuriyet Bulvari No: 144, Izmir
Mandarin Oriental Bodrum
- Location: Cennet Koyu, Göltürkbükü, Bodrum
- Features: Tourists are facilitated with breathtaking sea views from inside.
Macakizi Hotel
- Location: Türkbükü Mahallesi, No: 26, Bodrum
Tours and Events in Turkey:
Turkey is the country that extends across two continents of Europe and Asia. It has renowned rich history and diverse landscapes, giving chances with an array of activities, tours, and events that cater to a wide range of interests of their visitors. Here’s tourist who are planning to visit Turkey can look at some planned activities for them:
Istanbul
Hagia Sophia:
The place was originally a Byzantine cathedral and later on it was converted to an Ottoman mosque. Visitors get the chance to see the stunning dome and explore the entire building daily from 9 AM to 7 PM.
Topkapi Palace:
The amazing part here is that Topkapi was once the palace of the Ottoman sultan, where they and their families lived and depicted a royal lifestyle. Visitors can glance at the Islamic art based calligraphy at its walls. It‘s open daily (except Tuesdays) from 9 AM to 6 PM. It is advisable to every visitor to view the Harem section, which is available for them with a separate ticket.
Bosporus Cruise:
Tourists usually ride a boat along the Bosporus Strait with the help of cruises available throughout the day. Moreover they are allowed to enjoy evening cruises that include dinner as well. Travelers see the stunning views and experience the unique landscape of Istanbul, located between Europe and Asia. The facilities of cruises are available between 10 AM and 5 PM.
Cappadocia
Hot Air Balloon Ride:
Tourists book the ride of a hot air balloon, which is a completely safe and enjoyable journey for them. In this way, they get the chance to see the unique rock formations along with fairy chimneys situated at Cappadocia Rides are usually booked before sunrise around 5:30 AM, which brings a magical experience to have a birds eye view of stunning landscapes high above the sky.
Göreme Open-Air Museum:
Tourists are enthusiasts to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains rock-cut churches and monasteries inside the museum. It is widely open for public and tourists daily from 8 AM to 7 PM in the summer and 8 AM to 5 PM in the winter.
Underground Cities Tour:
Tourists visit the subterranean cities of Derinkuyu or Kaymakli. These underground cities had been used by early Christians to prevent themselves from persecutions.Buses start the tours typically from 9 AM to 4 PM for the tourists.
Antalya
Old Town (Kaleiçi):
The old town which is known as Kaleiçi is famous for its narrow streets. The streets provide the look of the houses that were constructed in ancient times according to Ottoman architecture. Tourists come and explore the streets in the morning or early afternoon
Düden Waterfalls:
The waterfalls are perfect for spending a relaxing afternoon. People climb the stairs to visit upper falls . However, the lower falls are accessible from 8 AM to 8 PM for all the tourists , while the upper falls are open from 8 AM to 6 PM for them.
Pamukkale
Cotton Castle:
Those who visit Turkey do not forget to visit white travertine terraces. Visitors are allowed to swim in the thermal pools from 8 AM to 7 PM that also provides them healing from back pain. Moreover, the ancient city of Hierapolis is also situated above the terraces. For tourists, it is worth exploring and is usually open until 7 PM.
Ephesus
Ephesus Ancient City:
People come to Ephesus to explore the life of Romans by observing the impressive ruins in these well preserved ancient cities.The site is open for all the tourists from 8 AM to 7 PM.
Events
Istanbul Film Festival:
The film festival is usually held in the month of April every year in Istanbul. Tourists get the chance to watch a wide range of films from around the world, which include Turkish cinema.
Cappadocia Balloon Festival:
The balloon festival provides a gorgeous display of colorful hot air balloons every July every year, and it caters to the stunning landscape of Cappadocia.
Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival:
The film festival is celebrated in Turkish cinema in the month of October every year. The purpose of the festival is to grab the attraction of filmmakers from across the country.These activities and events are aimed to offer the tourists a rich culture of Turkey’s history and natural treasures present in it.
Meal Plans: Pre-Arranged Dining and Special Meal Plans in Turkey
Turkey is also loved by the people for its rich food traditions. Every traveler is facilitated with a wide range of dining experiences that represents its lively culture and history. When people plan for a trip to Turkey, then they set up dining plans or special meals before they have a flight. In this way, each traveler enjoys the best Turkish dishes and he does not worry about last-minute plans.
Pre-Arranged Dining
Pre-arranged dining means tourists usually book tables at popular restaurants or special dining spots before their trip. Istanbul is one of the busy cities where people book top restaurants weeks in advance.People get the benefits of no long waits and arrange their dining ahead of time at famous places.
Mürekkep or Asma Yapragi in Ankara
Travelers try traditional Turkish food at this well renowned place known as Mürekkep or Asma Yapragi in Ankara. In these restaurants, they are served with delicious dishes like kebabs, mezes and pide and other tasty meals in a relaxed setting with great service.
Special Meal Plans
Most people who are Indians prefer to book special meal plans that include vegetarian, vegan and gluten free foods. These people are served with fresh salads, dolma which is known as stuffed grape leaves and lentil soups. However, it is important to discuss the special meal plans with tour operators available at the hotel ahead of time to make sure the right food will be served.
Conclusion
Turkey offers many amazing places to visit for the tourists. People get the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery, they taste yummy Turkish food, and get the chance to explore interesting sites. It is advised to plan the meal ahead of time to make sure people have a great visit and to avoid any inconvenience.
