Turkey is (BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN TURKEY) undoubtedly world-renowned for its iconic sights that you won’t want to miss due to their popularity and cultural significance. While visiting these top attractions, you may also discover lesser-known, but equally significant spots, some of which might already be part of your tour.
Located about 40 km (25 miles) from the city of Aksaray, on the route from Konya to Cappadocia, stands the historic Sultanhanı Caravanserai. Sultanhanı itself is a small town or village within Aksaray Province. While there isn’t much else to see in the area, just a few street stalls, this quiet settlement has become a recognized spot on the map (HA LONG BAY VIETNAM) of Turkey because of the caravanserai.
Built in the 13th century, the caravanserai served as a safe resting place and trading post along the famous Silk Road. Constructed between 1229 and 1236 by Turkish Sultan Alaaddin Keykubat I, it has stood for over 800 years and has been restored many times. It became an important stopover for traders traveling to Istanbul.
The Sultanhanı Caravanserai looks like an ancient Turkish mansion, though smaller in size. Inside, you will see carvings, large arches, and strong pillars, with thick walls dividing the rooms. Visiting this historical site in Turkey offers a chance to step back in time and appreciate the history of the region (BEST THINGS TO DO IN BERGEN, NORWAY).
Cappadocia is one of the must-visit regions in Turkey, famous for its stunning landscapes, fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and historical sites. The region includes several towns and villages such as Göreme, Ürgüp, Avanos, and Nevşehir (the provincial capital). Covering all the top sights in Cappadocia may be impossible in a short visit, but if you can allocate at least two days, you should be able to see the highlights.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Turkey, Göreme Open-Air Museum is where you will find the best collection of painted cave churches. These caves were carved by Christian monks between 1000 and 1200 AD from soft volcanic rock and decorated with detailed paintings showing stories from the Bible.
It also offers a glimpse into early Christian life with its rock-cut churches and monasteries, all set against the unique landscape of Cappadocia.
The Underground City of Kaymaklı can be a bit challenging for those who have breathing issues or feel uncomfortable in tight spaces. As you explore deep underground, you’ll walk through narrow tunnels and low ceilings that may require bending or careful movement. While there is some ventilation, the air can feel a little confined compared to open spaces. For most, it’s an exciting and unique experience, but it’s good to be mindful of your comfort and physical ability before entering.
Kaymaklı is the
widest cave city in Cappadocia, featuring nearly one hundred tunnels. It was
opened to visitors in 1964 and is believed to have been created by early
Christians as a refuge from persecution.
Beneath the
surface lies a complex system of tunnels, chambers, and galleries carved deep
into the volcanic tuff rock. The underground city can hold up to 3,000 people
and reaches over 85 meters deep, with low, winding passages, steep stairs, and
rooms serving various purposes.
Inside, you will find water wells, storage spaces, and ventilation shafts. Some areas, including a church, stables, and kitchens, were used as social gathering places. There are also burial chambers where the dead were buried within the city walls.
If there’s one experience in Turkey that can take your breath away, literally and figuratively, it’s floating over Cappadocia at sunrise in a hot air balloon. This world-famous region isn’t just on the list of the best places for hot air balloon rides; it is the list. Watching the first light spill over fairy chimneys, cave houses, and ancient valleys from high above is nothing short of magical, even if it comes with a hefty price tag.
Being in
Cappadocia and not trying the hot air balloon ride is a sheer waste, given its
reputation as a premier destination for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. All
truly worth the price. It starts early, by 5 am, with pickup, followed by the
drive to Göreme, the main hub and the most popular launch site. A simple
breakfast may be included at a small café before heading to the balloons.
Getting into
the huge basket may look easy, but it isn’t, the crew will give you a hand.
Once inside, there’s hardly any room to move; you’re pretty much standing in
one direction. As the balloon slowly drifts upward, the views become more and
more mesmerising - valleys, fairy
chimneys, and cave houses glowing in the soft morning light. The land unfolds
like a patchwork of muted colours, and other balloons drift around you like
giant bubbles in the sky.
And then… silence. Just you, the gentle breeze, and the rising sun. As the ride comes to an end and you return to the ground, those who have opted for the premium package will be treated to a champagne celebration and a certificate of achievement, a forever memory from your unforgettable Turkey trip.
A brief stop in Avanos town takes you to a hilltop, where you can admire Cappadocia’s striking natural rock formations.
Avanos is known
for its pottery-making tradition, believed to date back to Hittite times, using
clay from the red silt of the Kızılırmak River. The old town and riverside
setting make it a notable destination in the region.
At that spot, one of Turkey’s most recognisable symbols, the blue eye charm, can be seen. Known as Nazar Boncuğu, these talismans, often tied to tree branches, are believed to shield people from bad luck or harm caused by envy. They are also found in Turkish homes or worn as jewellery.
Bolu might not be on every Turkey travel plan, but if you’re halfway between Istanbul and Ankara, it’s worth making a stop. You could even spend a night in one of the cozy, cottage-style hotels surrounded by nature. Known for its lush forests, Bolu turns into a winter wonderland when the snow falls, a place where both kids and adults can enjoy the season.
Attractions in
Bolu
If you’d like to spend more time in Bolu, you can visit:
Yedigöller National Park
Seven beautiful
lakes, walking trails, and picnic spots.
Gölcük Nature Park
A peaceful lake
surrounded by pine trees, perfect for a stroll.
Kartalkaya Ski Resort
A popular spot
for skiing and snowboarding in winter.
Abant Lake
Scenic lake
views with options for picnics, horse rides, or simply relaxing.
Seben Rock Houses
Ancient rock-carved houses that tell part of Bolu’s history.
When planning your list of things to do in Ankara, Anıtkabir should be right at the top. This grand mausoleum honors Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder and first President of the Republic of Turkey, and the leader of the Turkish War of Independence.
Set in a vast
open space with impressive monumental structures, Anıtkabir is one of Ankara’s
most famous landmarks and a powerful symbol of the nation’s history. Inside,
you can see Atatürk’s personal belongings, historical documents, books, and
other treasures.
The changing of the guards is another highlight, a solemn and memorable moment to watch. Anıtkabir is also where İsmet İnönü, Turkey’s second President, was laid to rest, with his tomb directly opposite Atatürk’s across the Ceremonial Ground.
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