The summer months are the perfect time to explore the beauty spread across every corner of Turkey. Our country offers vacation routes that appeal to every taste, with its historical texture, natural wonders, rich culture, and deep blue beaches. In this guide, we have gathered 10 places to visit during the summer. Our list includes everything from heritage-filled cities to cool highlands and golden beaches.
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With its thousands of years of history and cultural heritage, Istanbul offers a unique destination even in summer. You can visit landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque in the Historic Peninsula. Watch the scenery from Galata Tower and explore modern Istanbul on Istiklal Street with the nostalgic tram. Taking a Bosphorus tour on summer evenings is the most pleasant way to experience the city with a cool breeze. With open-air concerts and festivals, Istanbul offers a new discovery at every step.
Cappadocia, with its unique geography full of fairy chimneys and mystical atmosphere, is captivating in summer as well. The hot air balloons decorating the sky at sunrise are one of the most unforgettable memories for visitors. The Göreme Open-Air Museum, underground cities, and rock-carved churches showcase the history of Cappadocia. Morning walks in the cool air, ATV tours, or balloon rides during the day allow for full exploration. Cappadocia is a unique summer destination for those seeking both nature and culture.
Pamukkale offers a visually stunning and relaxing experience in summer with its cotton-white travertines and healing thermal waters. Walking barefoot on the travertines, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and cooling off in the hot spring pools is an unforgettable experience. The ancient city of Hierapolis and the Cleopatra Pool at the top provide delightful breaks immersed in history. Pamukkale is an ideal summer route for those who want to experience both nature and history together.
With its crystal-clear sea, golden beaches, and ancient heritage, Antalya is an indispensable destination for summer holidays. You can enjoy the sea at Konyaaltı and Lara beaches, stroll through the historic streets of Kaleiçi, and meet history in ancient cities like Aspendos and Side. Düden and Manavgat waterfalls offer refreshing breaks in the summer heat. Antalya provides everything you seek in a summer vacation with accommodation options for every budget, lively nightlife, and a nature-integrated setting.
Bodrum is one of the most popular summer routes in the Aegean with its white houses, crystal-clear coves, and vibrant nightlife. Bodrum Castle and the Underwater Archaeology Museum attract history enthusiasts, while Bar Street captivates nightlife lovers. During the day, swim in the sea and explore the coves; in the evening, enjoy walks around the marina. Bodrum offers a blend of sea, history, and entertainment with accommodations to suit every budget.
Fethiye is the favorite of summer vacations with the turquoise waters of Ölüdeniz and paragliding from Babadağ. Cool hikes in Saklıkent Canyon and boat tours to Butterfly Valley and Kabak Bay bring you into direct contact with nature. History lovers can explore Kayaköy and Tlos Ancient City. This destination offers adventure during the day and Aegean flavors in the evening, catering to every vacationer.
For those overwhelmed by the summer heat, the lush highlands of Rize and Trabzon offer a cool and peaceful alternative. You can take nature walks in Ayder Plateau and relax in thermal waters. Uzungöl, with its lake view and wooden guesthouses, appeals to those seeking a quiet holiday. Sumela Monastery is a striking destination where nature and history merge. This cool escape, enriched by the unique tastes of Black Sea cuisine, is perfect for renewing your spirit in summer.
Mardin, with its yellow stone houses and historical texture, is a unique stop for those seeking a cultural route in summer. Walk through the old streets and discover the scenery where mosques and churches stand side by side; gaze over the Mesopotamian plain from Zinciriye Madrasa. The Deyrulzafaran and Mor Gabriel monasteries reflect the spiritual richness of the region. In the evenings, crown your day with local flavors of Mardin cuisine at rooftop restaurants. Time seems to stand still in this stone city.
Çanakkale sheds light on the past with its historical heritage like the Ancient City of Troy and the Gallipoli Peninsula while adding peace to summer holidays with its natural beauty like Bozcaada. Trace the legends in Troy, visit the martyrdoms in Gallipoli, and swim in the clear coves of Bozcaada. Watch the sunset accompanied by windmills and enjoy the delicious Aegean cuisine. Çanakkale is an ideal summer route for those who want to experience both history and the sea together.
İzmir is a delightful starting point for summer with its sunset at Kordon and landmarks like the Clock Tower in Konak Square. Nearby Çeşme Peninsula stands out with Alaçatı’s stone streets, windsurfing, and lively nightlife. The warm sea of Ilıca Beach, Çeşme Castle, and boat tours enrich your holiday. The İzmir-Çeşme line combines city comfort with seaside tranquility and adds unforgettable memories to your summer with tasty meals and breezy Aegean air.
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Turkey offers countless options for a summer vacation. History, nature, culture, and the sea… These 10 different routes in the guide are waiting for you to explore throughout the summer. Have a great holiday in advance. Enjoy discovering new places, tasting different flavors, and collecting beautiful memories.