From the cobbled lanes of Ottoman-era towns to the cliffside monasteries of the Black Sea, Turkey offers a kaleidoscope of cultural, historical, and scenic experiences. With cities that date back to the dawn of civilization and others pulsing with modern energy, the best cities to visit in Turkey are as diverse as they are unforgettable.

Whether you’re chasing Roman ruins, Ottoman palaces, world-renowned cuisine, or coastal sunsets, this list of the best cities to visit in Turkey will guide you through destinations that promise more than just sightseeing—they offer stories, flavors, and traditions that span centuries. Let’s journey across ten remarkable cities that define Turkey’s rich identity.

1. Istanbul

History and Culture

When discussing the best cities to visit in Turkey, Istanbul stands in a league of its own. With its extraordinary blend of history, culture, and modern vibrancy, this city has long served as a crossroads of civilizations. As the former capital of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires, Istanbul offers travelers a living museum of architecture, religion, and imperial power. Iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque underscore Istanbul’s legacy as one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for heritage enthusiasts.

Today, Istanbul merges the grandeur of its past with a cosmopolitan present. Neighborhoods like Karaköy and Nişantaşı burst with art galleries, stylish cafés, and boutique shops, while the echoes of ancient traders still linger in the Grand Bazaar. Whether you’re admiring the minarets at sunset or exploring centuries-old palaces, Istanbul consistently ranks among the best cities to visit in Turkey for its immersive storytelling through space and time.

Must-See Attractions

The city’s top landmarks affirm why Istanbul remains one of the best cities to visit in Turkey:

• Hagia Sophia: A magnificent structure that has been both a church and a mosque, now open as a historic mosque and a symbol of Istanbul’s layered identity.
• Topkapi Palace: Once home to Ottoman sultans, this grand complex allows visitors to explore royal quarters, treasury rooms, and Islamic relics.
• Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): Known for its stunning blue İznik tiles, six minarets, and powerful spiritual ambiance.
• Grand Bazaar: One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, ideal for hunting antiques, jewelry, spices, and Turkish textiles.
• Bosphorus Cruise: A scenic journey between two continents, offering unforgettable views of palaces, bridges, and local life—making Istanbul one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for panoramic beauty.

Unique Experiences

Experience Type	Description
Ferry between Continents	Hop from Europe to Asia in 20 minutes via public ferry—only in Istanbul.
Culinary District Tours	Join guided food walks in Kadıköy and Karaköy, a must in the best cities to visit in Turkey.
Rooftop Lounges & Views	Capture golden-hour skyline views over the Bosphorus from stylish rooftops.
Whirling Dervishes	Witness traditional Mevlevi ceremonies in atmospheric venues like Galata Mevlevihanesi.

Best Time to Visit & Transportation

Among the best cities to visit in Turkey, Istanbul shines in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when mild temperatures and fewer crowds make it ideal for exploring. Summer can be hot and bustling, while winter brings occasional snow—adding a magical contrast to the city’s domes and mosques.

The city is served by Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW), both offering excellent global connections. Transportation within Istanbul is extensive and efficient, from trams and metros to ferries and buses. Walking remains one of the best ways to explore the hidden corners of this dynamic city—further proving why Istanbul deserves its place among the best cities to visit in Turkey.

2. Ankara

History and Culture

As the capital of the Republic, Ankara holds a pivotal role among the best cities to visit in Turkey. While often overshadowed by Istanbul, Ankara reveals a more measured and intellectual heartbeat of the nation. Known as the administrative and political center of Turkey, Ankara also boasts a rich cultural legacy that dates back to ancient civilizations such as the Phrygians, Romans, and Seljuks.

From the ruins of Roman temples to the bustling energy of its universities, Ankara deserves recognition as one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for those seeking historical depth beyond the tourist trail. The city’s museums, including the world-renowned Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, preserve thousands of years of Anatolian heritage, offering travelers a deeply contextualized view of Turkey’s past and present.

Must-See Attractions

Ankara’s top sites reflect why it’s counted among the best cities to visit in Turkey:

• Anıtkabir: The monumental mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of modern Turkey. A place of reflection and national pride.
• Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: One of the most comprehensive museums in the country, showcasing relics from the Paleolithic to Ottoman periods.
• Atakule Tower: A panoramic observation and dining tower offering 360-degree views of Ankara’s urban expanse.
• Kocatepe Mosque: A grand example of modern Ottoman-style architecture, visible from nearly anywhere in the city.
• Hamamönü District: A beautifully restored Ottoman neighborhood filled with artisan shops, tea houses, and cobbled alleys—reaffirming Ankara’s place among the best cities to visit in Turkey for cultural immersion.

Unique Experiences

Experience Type	Description
State Ceremonies & Parades	Experience national holidays and parades around Anıtkabir and central avenues.
Academic Cafés	Enjoy Ankara’s university culture in literary cafés and bohemian bookshops.
Turkish Folk Music Nights	Watch live bağlama performances in hidden taverns, typical of the best cities to visit in Turkey.
Ottoman Architecture Walks	Explore restored wooden houses and mosques in Altındağ and Hamamönü districts.

Best Time to Visit & Transportation

When ranking the best cities to visit in Turkey, Ankara offers a four-season climate, with spring and fall providing the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing in Asia. Summers can be dry and warm, while winters often bring snowfall, giving the capital a serene, contemplative atmosphere.

Ankara is well-connected domestically and internationally via Esenboğa Airport. The city’s metro, buses, and dolmuş (shared taxis) provide reliable public transportation. For travelers exploring central Turkey, Ankara serves as a gateway—solidifying its position among the best cities to visit in Turkey for both logistics and legacy.

3. Izmir

History and Culture

Set along the turquoise shores of the Aegean Sea, Izmir is one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for travelers who seek a mix of seaside charm and deep-rooted history. Known in ancient times as Smyrna, the city was once a thriving Greek settlement and later a key node in the Roman Empire. Today, Izmir still reflects its cosmopolitan legacy through a cultural blend of Hellenistic ruins, Ottoman architecture, and modern urban flair.

As one of the best cities to visit in Turkey, Izmir’s spirit is defined by its openness and artistic vibrancy. It’s a city of poets and philosophers, a center of liberal thought, and a haven for creatives. The historic district of Alsancak, with its elegant promenades and bohemian cafés, showcases Izmir’s enduring reputation as a culturally progressive destination.

Must-See Attractions

The following highlights prove why Izmir remains one of the best cities to visit in Turkey:

• Agora of Smyrna: Walk through the remains of this Roman marketplace, revealing daily life in ancient Smyrna.
• Konak Square & Clock Tower: A postcard-perfect symbol of the city and a lively hub of local activity.
• Kadifekale (Velvet Castle): An ancient fortress offering sweeping views over Izmir and the bay.
• Asansör (Historical Elevator): A restored 1907 elevator connecting neighborhoods and showcasing panoramic vistas.
• Kordon Promenade: A scenic waterfront stretch ideal for sunsets, street music, and the laid-back charm that places Izmir among the best cities to visit in Turkey.

Unique Experiences

Experience Type	Description
Aegean Food Markets	Explore local ingredients and seafood in bustling markets like Kemeraltı.
Art & Jazz Festivals	Attend open-air cultural events—signature experiences in the best cities to visit in Turkey.
Sunset Ferry Rides	Sail across the bay as the sky turns golden and locals gather by the sea.
Greek-Ottoman Village Visits	Discover nearby Şirince, a preserved hillside village blending two heritages.

Best Time to Visit & Transportation

Among the best cities to visit in Turkey, Izmir offers perhaps the most comfortable year-round climate. Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) are ideal, though even summer’s heat is tempered by coastal breezes. Winters are mild and quiet, perfect for off-season travelers.

Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport connects the city to both domestic and international destinations. A modern metro system, ferries, buses, and trams make local transport seamless. Combined with walkable neighborhoods and scenic coastlines, Izmir continues to stand out as one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for both leisure and lifestyle.

4. Antalya

History and Culture

Antalya is widely recognized as one of the best cities to visit in Turkey, thanks to its enchanting Mediterranean setting, ancient ruins, and elegant old town. Founded by King Attalus II of Pergamon in the 2nd century BCE, Antalya has served as a gateway to the Turkish Riviera for centuries. Its strategic coastal position made it a key port city for Romans, Byzantines, and Seljuks, each leaving behind an architectural legacy.

Strolling through Kaleiçi, Antalya’s old town, reveals why it ranks among the best cities to visit in Turkey. Narrow cobbled streets, Ottoman-era mansions, and Roman walls form a captivating backdrop to modern cafés and boutique shops. The presence of Hadrian’s Gate, a well-preserved Roman triumphal arch, is a powerful symbol of the city’s timeless appeal.

Must-See Attractions

These attractions showcase why Antalya is considered one of the best cities to visit in Turkey:

• Kaleiçi (Old Town): A picturesque district of restored Ottoman houses, ancient city walls, and charming harbor views.
• Hadrian’s Gate: A marble arch built in honor of the Roman emperor’s visit—rich in both detail and history.
• Antalya Museum: Home to one of Turkey’s most comprehensive collections of archaeological artifacts, especially from the Roman period.
• Düden Waterfalls: Cascading natural beauty just outside the city—an ideal photo and picnic spot.
• Konyaaltı and Lara Beaches: Sun-soaked coastlines with turquoise waters, perfect for relaxation and among the best beaches found in the best cities to visit in Turkey.

Unique Experiences

Experience Type	Description
Boat Tours from the Harbor	Cruise the Gulf of Antalya aboard a traditional gulet or modern yacht.
Turkish Bath Experience	Enjoy a traditional hammam ritual in historic bathhouses in the old town.
Ancient City Day Trips	Visit nearby ruins like Perge, Aspendos, and Termessos—hallmarks of the best cities to visit in Turkey.
Sunset Cliff Views	Walk the cliffside parks of Antalya for sweeping vistas of the Taurus Mountains.

Best Time to Visit & Transportation

As one of the best cities to visit in Turkey, Antalya boasts over 300 days of sunshine annually. The best times to visit are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are manageable. Summer is popular but hot, while winter remains mild along the coast.

Antalya Airport connects the city to major Turkish and European destinations. Public buses, trams, and taxis serve the city efficiently, while rental scooters and coastal walking paths offer easy ways to explore. With its mix of history, nature, and resort comforts, Antalya stands proudly among the best cities to visit in Turkey for every type of traveler.

5. Bursa

History and Culture

Often referred to as “Green Bursa” for its lush gardens and thermal springs, this city holds a revered place among the best cities to visit in Turkey. Bursa was the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, and many of its architectural wonders and cultural traditions date back to that era. The city’s mosques, tombs, and bazaars reflect a time when Bursa was at the center of Turkish imperial power and Islamic artistry.

Among the best cities to visit in Turkey, Bursa stands out for seamlessly blending spirituality, history, and natural beauty. The city’s layout flows from sacred sites like the Grand Mosque to the slopes of Mount Uludağ, making it both a pilgrimage and leisure destination. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bursa preserves its legacy through well-maintained complexes and vibrant civic life.

Must-See Attractions

These highlights explain why Bursa is one of the best cities to visit in Turkey:

• Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii): A 14th-century marvel featuring twenty domes and intricate calligraphy.
• Koza Han: A historic silk bazaar where the Ottoman silk trade once flourished, now filled with cafés and artisan shops.
• Green Tomb (Yeşil Türbe): The ornate burial site of Sultan Mehmed I, decorated with turquoise tiles.
• Mount Uludağ: A major winter sports hub and summer hiking destination, adding a natural edge to the best cities to visit in Turkey.
• Cumalıkızık Village: A perfectly preserved Ottoman-era village on Bursa’s outskirts, offering a glimpse into 700-year-old life.

Unique Experiences

Experience Type	Description
Thermal Bath Retreats	Relax in centuries-old hammams powered by natural hot springs.
Cable Car to Uludağ	Take the longest aerial tram in Turkey for views across the Marmara region.
Silk Road Heritage Tour	Explore historic caravanserais that cement Bursa’s place among the best cities to visit in Turkey.
Traditional Iskender Kebap	Taste Bursa’s signature dish in its birthplace—layers of meat, yogurt, and hot butter.

Best Time to Visit & Transportation

As one of the best cities to visit in Turkey, Bursa welcomes travelers year-round. Spring and autumn offer ideal weather for city walks and cultural exploration, while winter transforms Mount Uludağ into a snowy paradise for skiing and snowboarding.

Bursa is accessible by ferry from Istanbul across the Sea of Marmara or by highway and intercity bus. Local buses and a light metro system make intra-city travel easy. The city’s unique blend of sacred landmarks, historic bazaars, and mountainous backdrops make it not only a spiritual retreat but also one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for year-round adventures.

6. Konya

History and Culture

Konya, one of the oldest cities in Anatolia, holds deep spiritual significance and is considered one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for those seeking a reflective and culturally rich journey. As the capital of the Seljuk Sultanate in the 12th and 13th centuries, Konya became a hub of Islamic philosophy, architecture, and mysticism. It is most famously associated with Jalaluddin Rumi, the great Sufi poet and philosopher, whose teachings continue to inspire the world.

The Mevlana Museum, Rumi’s mausoleum, is a pilgrimage site for spiritual travelers and firmly places Konya among the best cities to visit in Turkey for cultural depth. Beyond its religious heritage, Konya preserves Seljuk-era mosques, madrasahs, and caravanserais, offering a step back into a medieval Islamic city. The rhythm of life here is slower, deeper, and meditative—a true counterpoint to Turkey’s coastal vibrance.

Must-See Attractions

Explore the sites that make Konya one of the best cities to visit in Turkey:

• Mevlana Museum: The final resting place of Rumi, housing relics, manuscripts, and a deeply moving atmosphere.
• Alaeddin Mosque: One of the oldest and most significant mosques of the Seljuk era, built atop a hill overlooking the city.
• Ince Minare Museum: A former theological school now showcasing Islamic wooden and stone carvings.
• Karatay Madrasah: A tile museum that reveals Seljuk mastery in ceramic art and Quranic inscriptions.
• Tomb of Shams Tabrizi: A spiritual companion to Rumi, this lesser-known shrine adds depth to Konya’s title as one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for spiritual exploration.

Unique Experiences

Experience Type	Description
Whirling Dervish Ceremonies	Attend Sema rituals in the heartland of Sufism, an essential experience in the best cities to visit in Turkey.
Pilgrimage Walks	Follow routes taken by Sufi travelers between shrines and mosques.
Local Konya Cuisine	Try Etli Ekmek (meat flatbread) and Tirit, culinary staples of one of the best cities to visit in Turkey.
Seljuk Heritage Tours	Visit caravanserais and fortresses that defined medieval Anatolian trade routes.

Best Time to Visit & Transportation

Konya, like other best cities to visit in Turkey, is most enjoyable in spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) when the weather is pleasant and the atmosphere contemplative. Winters can be snowy but suit the tranquil pace of the city well, especially for those visiting for spiritual reasons.

Konya is well connected by high-speed train to Ankara, Istanbul, and Eskişehir. Konya Airport also provides domestic flights. Public buses and trams cover most of the city, while its walkable historic core makes it ideal for those who enjoy discovering hidden courtyards and quiet corners. Konya remains one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for travelers who value culture, calm, and connection.

7. Gaziantep

History and Culture

Renowned for its rich culinary legacy and ancient roots, Gaziantep is undeniably one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for food lovers and history enthusiasts alike. As one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, Gaziantep sits on ancient trade routes that once connected Mesopotamia with the Mediterranean. This legacy has left behind a vibrant mosaic of Roman mosaics, Islamic architecture, and Ottoman craftsmanship.

Among the best cities to visit in Turkey, Gaziantep stands out for its fusion of cultures and its preservation of artisanal traditions. The city’s historical bazaar still echoes with the sounds of copper being hammered and spices being weighed. Its museums, mosques, and caravanserais capture the essence of southeastern Anatolia—a region often overlooked but filled with authenticity and flavor.

Must-See Attractions

These highlights show why Gaziantep is one of the best cities to visit in Turkey:

• Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum: Home to some of the most stunning Roman mosaics ever unearthed, including the iconic “Gypsy Girl.”
• Gaziantep Castle: A fortress with a panoramic view of the city, believed to have Roman foundations and Byzantine expansions.
• Emine Göğüş Culinary Museum: Turkey’s first museum dedicated to food culture, reflecting why Gaziantep is one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for gastronomy.
• Copper Bazaar (Bakırcılar Çarşısı): A marketplace where artisans handcraft copperware, a tradition passed down through generations.
• Bayazhan City Museum: Set in a historic inn, this museum narrates the story of the city through engaging exhibitions.

Unique Experiences

Experience Type	Description
Pistachio Farm Visits	Tour orchards producing the key ingredient of the city’s famed baklava.
Cooking Workshops	Learn how to make authentic Gaziantep dishes like kebabs and stuffed vegetables.
Baklava Tasting Tours	Sample from family-run bakeries in one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for sweets.
Traditional Coffee Houses	Sip thick Turkish coffee in century-old shops filled with local chatter.

Best Time to Visit & Transportation

Among the best cities to visit in Turkey, Gaziantep is most enjoyable in spring and autumn when the weather is mild and ideal for walking through its historic bazaars and museum districts. Summers are hot, while winters are cool and quieter—perfect for indoor culinary experiences.

Gaziantep Oğuzeli Airport offers domestic and limited international flights. Buses connect the city to other major destinations, while local transit options include minibuses and taxis. Its walkable old town and food-centric neighborhoods make Gaziantep one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for immersive, taste-driven adventures.

8. Trabzon

History and Culture

Nestled on the Black Sea coast, Trabzon is one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for travelers seeking misty mountains, coastal culture, and Byzantine history. Once a major hub on the Silk Road and the capital of the Empire of Trebizond, Trabzon’s story is steeped in religious, political, and commercial significance. Its position between sea and forest has shaped a unique identity that blends Greek, Roman, and Ottoman influences.

Among the best cities to visit in Turkey, Trabzon charms visitors with its monasteries, castles, and tea-scented hillsides. The city’s spiritual center is the iconic Sumela Monastery, dramatically perched on a cliffside and embodying centuries of faith and resilience. From bustling port to alpine village, Trabzon offers a range of landscapes and legacies rarely found in other destinations.

Must-See Attractions

Here’s why Trabzon is firmly one of the best cities to visit in Turkey:

• Sumela Monastery: A 4th-century Greek Orthodox monastery built into a cliff, offering a breathtaking view of the Altındere Valley.
• Trabzon Castle: Overlooking the city, this historic fortress reveals layers of Roman and Ottoman history.
• Atatürk Mansion: A white villa surrounded by lush gardens, once used by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk during his visits to the region.
• Boztepe Hill: A perfect viewpoint for watching the sun set over the Black Sea while sipping traditional tea.
• Ortahisar Mosque: Formerly a Byzantine church, now a serene mosque that showcases architectural continuity—common in the best cities to visit in Turkey.

Unique Experiences

Experience Type	Description
Highlands (Yayla) Excursions	Explore Uzungöl or Ayder Plateau, alpine escapes typical of the best cities to visit in Turkey.
Anchovy Season Food Tours	Join locals in savoring hamsi (Black Sea anchovy) prepared in countless regional styles.
Folk Music & Horon Dance	Watch or join traditional dance performances to the sound of kemençe.
Tea Plantation Visits	Tour the lush hillsides of Rize and taste fresh Turkish tea straight from the source.

Best Time to Visit & Transportation

Trabzon, like other best cities to visit in Turkey, is most beautiful from May to September. During this time, its green highlands, cool air, and cultural festivals create an unforgettable atmosphere. Winters can be damp and foggy but offer a quieter, more meditative experience.

Trabzon Airport provides direct flights to Istanbul, Ankara, and seasonal international destinations. The city has a compact transport system with minibuses, taxis, and buses. For accessing nearby valleys and highlands, hiring a car is ideal. With its coastal setting, religious heritage, and natural wonder, Trabzon remains one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for those drawn to mystery, altitude, and authenticity.

9. Şanlıurfa

History and Culture

Also known as the “City of Prophets,” Şanlıurfa is undoubtedly one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for those interested in the origins of civilization and spiritual heritage. According to tradition, this is the birthplace of the Prophet Abraham and a city that has played a significant role in religious history. From early Mesopotamian settlements to Islamic dynasties, Şanlıurfa is steeped in narratives that transcend time.

Among the best cities to visit in Turkey, Şanlıurfa stands out for its unmatched connection to ancient humanity. The discovery of Göbekli Tepe, considered the world’s oldest temple, has placed the city at the forefront of archaeological wonder. Local traditions, mystical sites, and vibrant bazaars preserve its Middle Eastern character and deepen its appeal.

Must-See Attractions

These sites affirm Şanlıurfa’s reputation as one of the best cities to visit in Turkey:

• Göbekli Tepe: A prehistoric sanctuary dating back over 11,000 years, making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site and redefining human history.
• Balıklıgöl (Pool of Sacred Fish): A pilgrimage site where legend holds that Prophet Abraham was thrown into fire, only for it to turn into water.
• Urfa Castle: Perched above the city, this fortress features two ancient Corinthian columns believed to mark historical events.
• Rızvaniye Mosque Complex: Set beside sacred waters, offering tranquil views and architectural harmony.
• Covered Bazaar: A bustling network of alleys selling spices, copperware, and traditional garments—essential to the experience in the best cities to visit in Turkey.

Unique Experiences

Experience Type	Description
Whirling Music & Sufi Nights	Attend spiritual performances in restored caravanserais.
Local Cuisine Tasting	Try raw köfte and Urfa kebap—culinary signatures of the best cities to visit in Turkey.
Harran Beehive Houses	Visit this unique desert village with mud-brick homes and ancient ruins.
Prophet Abraham Heritage Trail	Follow sacred sites believed to be associated with Abraham’s life journey.

Best Time to Visit & Transportation

As one of the best cities to visit in Turkey, Şanlıurfa is best enjoyed during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Summers can be extremely hot, while winters remain mild and offer a peaceful setting for exploration.

Şanlıurfa GAP Airport connects the city to Istanbul, Ankara, and other major destinations. Within the city, minibuses and taxis are common, while rental cars are useful for accessing surrounding archaeological sites. With its unparalleled historic depth, religious resonance, and archaeological significance, Şanlıurfa is unquestionably one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for timeless discovery.

10. Eskişehir

History and Culture

Eskişehir, a youthful city with ancient roots, is one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for those who appreciate the blend of heritage and innovation. Once a Phrygian settlement and later an Ottoman stronghold, Eskişehir has grown into a vibrant university city that balances historical richness with modern creativity. Its name means “Old City,” but its energy is anything but.

Among the best cities to visit in Turkey, Eskişehir distinguishes itself with colorful neighborhoods, serene riverside walkways, and a population full of students and artists. The city is known for its production of meerschaum—used in ornate handcrafted pipes—and for fostering a lively cultural scene that includes museums, opera houses, and urban parks.

Must-See Attractions

These landmarks reveal why Eskişehir ranks among the best cities to visit in Turkey:

• Odunpazarı Old Town: A UNESCO-listed district with beautifully restored Ottoman-era houses, craft shops, and galleries.
• Odunpazarı Modern Museum (OMM): A contemporary art museum showcasing Turkish and international artists in a stunning timber structure.
• Sazova Park (Science, Art & Culture Park): A whimsical space with a fairytale castle, pirate ship, and planetarium—rare among the best cities to visit in Turkey.
• Porsuk River & Gondola Rides: Venice-like canals that run through the heart of the city, lined with cafés and footbridges.
• Meerschaum Museum: Explore the craftsmanship behind the city’s signature soft white mineral carvings.

Unique Experiences

Experience Type	Description
Tram & Canal Adventures	Ride both the sleek modern tram and gondola along the Porsuk River.
Café Culture in Adalar	Visit Eskişehir’s liveliest area for youthful vibes and creative menus.
Turkish Bath Experience	Relax in traditional hammams, an essential part of life in the best cities to visit in Turkey.
Meerschaum Carving Demo	Watch local artisans transform this rare mineral into detailed pipe designs.

Best Time to Visit & Transportation

Among the best cities to visit in Turkey, Eskişehir enjoys a continental climate—cold winters and hot summers. The best months to visit are April through June and September through October, when the city is alive with festivals, student events, and ideal walking weather.

Eskişehir is conveniently located between Istanbul and Ankara and is a key stop on Turkey’s high-speed train line. Local transportation includes modern trams and buses, but much of the city can be explored on foot or by bike. With its artistic soul, youthful energy, and beautifully preserved old town, Eskişehir is one of the best cities to visit in Turkey for travelers looking beyond the mainstream.]

FAQ: Best Cities to Visit in Turkey

What is the best time to visit cities in Turkey?

Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) are ideal for visiting most cities in Turkey. These months offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant local festivals.

Which city in Turkey is best for history lovers?

Istanbul and Şanlıurfa top the list of the best cities to visit in Turkey for history enthusiasts. Istanbul offers a timeline of empires, while Şanlıurfa holds the world’s oldest temple and deep spiritual roots.

Are these cities safe for tourists?

Yes. The best cities to visit in Turkey are generally safe, with strong tourist infrastructure. Still, it’s wise to follow local advice, stay aware in crowded areas, and register with your embassy when traveling long-term.

How should I travel between these cities?

Turkey has a modern intercity bus network, high-speed trains between major hubs like Ankara, Eskişehir, and Konya, and affordable domestic flights connecting all the best cities to visit in Turkey.

Can I explore these cities on a budget?

Absolutely. Many of the best cities to visit in Turkey offer budget-friendly options for food, lodging, and transportation. Street food, public transit, and local guesthouses make it easy to travel affordably.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Turkey