5. Gallipoli
For those interested in military history, both old and new, Gallipoli has many stories to tell.
Due to its location, the North Aegean region has been a battleground for millennia. Most recently, the town hosted a famously bloody battle of WWI.
There are cemeteries dedicated to the thousands who lost their lives in this battle, but it would be wrong to characterise Gallipoli as nothing more than an old military site. It has a bucolic coastal charm and a naturally beautiful landscape which makes for a very pleasant stroll.
6. Mount Nemrut
Located in Central Anatolia, Mount Nemrut isn’t one of the easiest places to get to in Turkey, but it’s certainly one of the most interesting.
The Hellenistic King Antiochus I of Commagene ordered a monument to himself to be built atop the mountain, which included colossal statues. Over time, earthquakes caused the heads of these depictions to fall off. Now they lie staring out at the world from the floor.
Tour guides usually take visitors to this site for sunrise or sunset, where you can experience the best views and feel the eerie magic of a fallen kingdom.
7. Hakkari
For mountain lovers, Hakkari is a peaceful town that is largely ignored by tourists despite its impressive landscape and variety of activities.
Hakkari offers skiing in the winter and plenty of mountaineering routes in the summer. The Cilo-Sat National Glacier Park is home to Turkey’s largest glaciers and there are lots of crystal-clear streams and waterfalls to enjoy.
Hakkari people would usually begin work before sunrise, so the local cuisine is built around nutrient-rich, high-energy foods. One example would be devin soup, made with cracked wheat, flour and red meats.
8. The Black Sea
Despite the name, the main attractions of the Black Sea region actually lie inland. Lush forests and rolling hills make this the greenest area of Turkey, with sensational hiking options in the Kackar Mountains.
There’s no shortage of streams and waterfalls for those that like to feel close to nature, and after a long day of walking you can tuck into one of the many regional delicacies, especially if you are a lover of anchovies. The small salty fish are caught nearby and are beloved by the locals.
9. Göbekli Tepe
Göbekli Tepe is the world’s oldest known temple complex, dating back over 11,000 years, making it 6,000 years older than Stonehenge.
It’s located near Şanlıurfa in southeastern Turkey and features massive stone pillars arranged in circular formations.
Archaeologists believe the area was used for religious rituals, but of course so much is unknown about this era. The carvings on the stones include animals and abstract symbols, offering a glimpse into prehistoric beliefs.
You can visit the site and its museum to learn how it’s reshaping our understanding of early civilisation.
10. Fethiye
Fethiye is a laid-back coastal town on the Aegean Sea, popular for its turquoise waters and scenic boat trips.
It’s home to the ancient Lycian rock tombs carved into cliffs above the town, while the nearby Ölüdeniz lagoon is one of Turkey’s most photographed beaches. For thrill-seekers, you can even paraglide from Babadağ mountain and take in a bird's-eye view.
For those less keen on hurling themselves off a mountain, Fethiye also has a lively market and marina. Perfect for relaxed evenings by the water.