Kiwi Curated
Where to Travel in Turkey
by Darren DunneSince the first time I visited Turkey as a child, its blend of cultures and friendly locals held me in thrall. As a 12-year-old, the contrast between this exotic land and my home country of Ireland was striking, opening my eyes to a world outside my childhood bubble. Since then I’ve returned many times, amazed at the country’s ongoing transformation as it balances secularism, capitalism and Islam.
One thing that’s remained a constant on my visits is Turkey’s amazing ability to surprise. As a history buff, a huge part of the appeal is the country’s many ancient sites. No matter where one chooses to go, there are subterranean cities, imposing hilltop fortresses and significant religious sites.
Not every trip needs to be an educational experience and sometimes all that’s desired is a sun-kissed beach—something the Turkish Riviera possesses in spades. This stretch of paradise runs from Bodrum to Antalya, incorporating a number of resort towns along the way.
For those interested in visiting this special country, read on as I share some of my favorite destinations, along with a little hotel inspiration.
Where to Travel in Turkey
Where to stay: A’JIA HOTEL | Vault Karaköy, The House Hotel
Turkey’s largest city sits across two continents, and the influence of both manifests itself in a number of fascinating ways. Relics of over 2,500 years of history fill the skyline, with sights like the Hagia Sophia (pictured above) and Blue Mosque drawing millions of visitors a year. The trendy neighborhood of Karakoy is undergoing a period of gentrification, highlighted by the boutique galleries that sit side by side with carpenter’s workshops and traditional bakeries.
Istanbul’s majestic Grand Bazaar is one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, spanning 61 streets and over 4,000 shops and stalls. Listed as the world’s most visited tourist attraction in 2014, with over 91 million tourists passing through, it possesses a chaotic energy unlike anywhere else.
Where to Travel in Turkey
Where to stay: Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay Bodrum | Nikki Beach Resort & Spa
Bodrum represents a microcosm of all that’s special about modern Turkey. A city has stood on the site for over 2,000 years, and fragments of that history can be found all over town. However, the focus these days is firmly on the tourist industry, thanks to a pleasant year-round climate and seaside location. The eastern half of the town has a long beach, as well as a slew of bars, restaurants and nightlife. It’s an area that comes alive with activity at night, ranging from hedonistic foam parties to more staid cocktail joints.
Across town, the presence of a marina and yacht club has created a more rarified atmosphere, filled with expensive boutique clothing stores and upscale piano bars. Often packed with tourists on summer nights, a waterfront promenade offers a relaxing place to enjoy an evening stroll.
Make sure to check the listings for any shows taking place at the city’s stunning Amphitheater, a venue built over 2,000 years ago and recently renovated to its former glory.
Where to Travel in Turkey
Where to stay: Regnum Carya Golf and Spa | Hotel Su
A little further to the east along the Turkish Riviera lies Antalya, the largest city on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. Here, lengthy beaches, lush mountains and an array of ancient ruins form the backdrop to a town blessed with the perfect climate. Kaleiçi is the city’s old quarter, containing endless winding streets enclosed within ancient walls. Entry and exit to this part of town is through Hadranius Gate, built by (and named after) the Roman Emperor Hadrian.
To the west of town there’s Aqualand, a large waterpark and beach park that caters to children of all ages. The spectacular Düden Falls is a waterfall that tumbles off cliffs to the southeast, while Lara Beach is an upscale, seaside neighborhood with plenty of tourist sights.
Where to Travel in Turkey
Where to stay: Argos in Cappadocia | The House Hotel Cappadocia
Deep in the heart of Turkey’s Central Anatolia province lies Cappadocia, an otherworldly area of moon-like rocks, underground cities, and houses embedded in the mountainside. These natural formations were formed as a result of thousands of years of erosion, with locals using them to create unique dwellings and underground cities that survive to this day.
The entire region of Cappadocia is a national park and there are well-trodden paths along the valleys that offer views of the scenery. The area is also famous as one of the world’s best places to take a ride in a hot air balloon, presenting a unique, bird’s-eye view.