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- What Is Turkey Famous For?
What is Turkey famous for?
Straddling both Asia and Europe, Turkey is a dazzling destination that has it all. Be it ancient monuments, or a showcase of scenery, the country never fails to impress. It offers plenty - from a vast history to a vibrant culture. In addition to the above, offerings like the sun-soaked Mediterranean, mighty mountains, and arid steppes all make for promising tourist attractions. So whether your tastes lean towards lapping up the former Ottoman glory of Istanbul, or just taking in surreal panoramic views at Pamukkale and Cappadocia, Turkey packages definitely has something for everyone. So, in this article we will have a closer look at some of the famous places in Turkey, followed by some of the most popular things in Turkey. Let’s get into it!
Famous Places in Turkey
Hagia Sofia ( Aya Sofya ) Mosque
The Hagia Sophia Mosque is regarded as one of the best places to visit, not only in Istanbul but also in Turkey. This mosque is regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. Built-in 537 CE by Byzantine Emperor Justinian, it is widely regarded as one of the greatest architectural achievements of the Byzantine Empire. It was so grand, in fact, that it continued to remain the world’s largest place of worship for well over 1,000 years after its construction.
Ephesus
The ruins of Ephesus are basically a city of yesteryear with colossal monuments and marble-columned roads. To date, it still remains one of the most famed cities of antiquity in the whole Mediterranean region. While the city’s history can be traced back all the way to the 10th century BCE, the major monuments that can be seen today are from the Roman era, when it functioned as a thriving commercial center. Points of attraction that are not worth missing here are - the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater. These ancient ruins definitely are one of the most famous places in Turkey.
Cappadocia
Cappadocia is every shutterbug’s paradise with its swooping rock valleys. Thanks to millennia of wind and water erosion - the cliff ridges and hill crests seen here house rippling panoramas of wave-like rocks. It is advisable to take a hike to best appreciate these views from various vantage points. However, if you are not in the mood to expend all that effort and energy, you can always take a hot air balloon ride! However, it is worth noting that this area is not only famous for its amazing views; it is also home to the frescoed rock-cut churches and cave-cut architecture of the Byzantine Era. Points worth visiting here include - Göreme Open-Air Museum and Ihlara Valley.
Topkapı Palace
If you are seeking a regal experience on your holiday and want to have a look into the regal life of Sultans, Topkapı Palace is the place to be. Back in the day, it was the place from which the sultans of the Ottoman era carved an empire that would go on to stretch from the Middle East to Africa. The palace’s interiors feature exuberant tiling and lavish jewelled decor. Points worth visiting here are - Imperial Council Building, the Imperial Treasury, and the surrounding public gardens.
Antalya
Antalya is a bustling Mediterranean hub that caters to all tastes and preferences. Be it beautiful beaches or picturesque towns, you've got it all. We highly recommend that you check out the Antalya Museum while you are here. It is home to some of the most staggering Hellenistic and Roman marble statues. What’s more? Due to its central location, Antalya makes for the perfect base for all your travels nearby.
Popular Things in Turkey
Tea
While people usually associate Turkey with coffee, missing out on tea in Turkey would leave your trip incomplete! Tea is the beverage of choice for the locals here, and we highly recommend you try it while you are here. Given it’s popularity tea is definitely one of the most popular things to buy in Turkey.
Mosques
Mosques are one of the most iconic things in Turkey. While one might think that the majority of them are located in Istanbul, that is not the case. The mosques seen here are not limited to being places of worship but also function as huge inspirations for Islamic art. Hagia Sophia, or the Blue Mosque, is one mosque that tourists should definitely not miss on their visit here.
Turkish Bazaars
Turkish Bazaars are well-known all over the world. The Grand Bazaar seen here is one of the oldest and biggest covered markets on the entire planet. It is home to a whopping 4000 shops, and you will definitely find it all here. Some of the most popular products that are sold here are handmade carpets and vibrant and colourful Turkish lamps.
Kebabs
Kebabs are to die for in Turkey. So, we definitely recommend that you don’t miss out on them. Finding a restaurant serving them is easy enough, as most streets will have at least one establishment serving these meat treats. Vegans need not worry, as this timeless food offering has kept up with contemporary trends and is now available with vegan options too!
Evil eye souvenir
A staple in most of the marketplaces and bazaars seen here, the evil eye souvenir is one that’s hard to miss. This blue and white eye-shaped amulet, traditionally known as “ Nazar “ is used to protect oneself from the evil eye. While it is typical of Turkish culture, it is seen in many other countries as well.
Turkish is the main language that is most widely spoken in the country of Turkey. While English is spoken in popular and large cities like Istanbul and Turkey, trying to speak in the local language here will be seen as good manners by the locals.
The Turkish lira ( abbreviation: TRY or TL ) is the currency that is used in Turkey. While Visa and Mastercard are accepted, it is best to have cash in hand; especially when you are travelling to more remote regions of the country.
Travellers from Canada and America travelling to Turkey for a period of 90 days or less do not have to carry a visa. However, it is worth noting that an e-visa is required prior to arrival in the country.
As is the case with most European destinations, the summer months are the most popular for travel but also bring the most crowds. If you are more of a beach person, then the summer months should be your preferred choice. On the other hand, if you are looking to sightsee, then you should look into travelling during the spring and fall months.
Turkey has various means of transport - like the metro, taxis, trams, and buses. You can also use flights to get from one city to the next.
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