The most beautiful and interesting cities in Turkey

There are really many reasons to visit Turkey if you haven't been there yet. Gorgeous nature, favorable climate, unique historical and cultural heritage and vibrant traditions are just some of them. Of course, it's best to start getting to know the Turkish Republic by traveling to its most interesting and beautiful cities. And for you, we have compiled our own rating of the cities that we recommend visiting first. The most beautiful cities in Turkey:

• Istanbul
• Antalya
• Bursa
• Izmir
• Fethiye

In our new review, we will be happy to tell you about each of them.

Istanbul

Istanbul is rightfully considered the most beautiful city in Turkey. This huge metropolis with a population of over 16,000,000 people is not only one of the most expensive in the world, but also the most promising for foreign investors. Istanbul is located on the Bosphorus Strait, dividing it into European and Asian parts. Here, different eras and times, the past with the present, modern trends and centuries-old traditions intertwine, creating an indescribable atmosphere that attracts tourists and travelers.

Historical facts

Throughout its history, Istanbul, one of the best cities in Turkey, has changed its name and geopolitical significance more than once. This is evidenced by the sights that belong to three historical periods at once: Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman. Significant historical facts about Istanbul:

• It was founded in 659 BC. At that time, the first Greek fishing settlement called Byzantium appeared on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus. The city was renamed Constantinople later, in 330, when Constantine the Great moved the capital of the Roman Empire here.
• Sultan Mehmed II the Conqueror, ruler of the Ottoman Empire, captured the city in 1453, after which the city was unofficially renamed Istanbul.
• The city's heyday is considered to be between 1520 and 1566, when Suleiman the Magnificent ruled here. It was during this period that the most famous eastern landmarks were built on its territory.
• After the establishment of the Turkish Republic in 1923, the capital was moved to Ankara.
• In 1930, Constantinople was officially renamed Istanbul.

Attractions

For a tourist, Istanbul is a very interesting city, thanks to the huge number of historical attractions. Here, Muslim mosques border Christian churches, and on the streets of the city there are objects built during the Middle Ages and Antiquity. The most popular attractions of Istanbul:

Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was the residence of all the sultans of the Ottoman Empire for 400 years. Each of them tried to bring something new and grandiose to this work of art. The area of the palace is about 50 hectares. A walk around its territory will take a whole day. The most visited places in Topkapi Palace are the museum and the harem. Opening hours: every day from 9:00 to 18:00, closed on Tuesdays. Address: Cankurtaran Mah. Babı Hümayun Cad. No:1 34122 Sultanahmet/Fatih/İstanbul

Hagia Sophia

One of the most famous and visited places in Istanbul. The interior decoration and architecture are breathtaking. Over the centuries of the building’s existence, there have been: an Orthodox cathedral, a Catholic church and a mosque. At different times, Hagia Sophia suffered from earthquakes, fires, and Crusader raids. But to this day, Hagia Sophia has managed to preserve all its treasures, including unique architecture, mosaic icons of the Byzantine period, Islamic calligraphy and the tombs of the sultans. Opening hours: Every day from 9:00 to 19:30. Address: Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul.

Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern is located underground. It is a reservoir built over 1,500 years ago to store a strategic reserve of drinking water. This quiet, cool, dark room with a high vaulted ceiling feels like you are entering a completely different world. The mesmerizing illumination of the 336 marble columns from ancient Greek temples only adds to the effect and will remain one of the most vivid memories of your trip to Istanbul. We recommend spending at least half an hour here. Opening hours: Daily from 9:00 to 18:30 in summer, and until 17:30 in winter. Address: Yerebatan Cad. Alemdar Mah. 1/3 34410 Sultanahmet-Fatih/İSTANBUL.

Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque is considered a symbol of Istanbul. The elegant structure is located in the middle of a well-kept garden with lawns, fountains and flower beds. The official Turkish name is the Sultanahmet Mosque. It has six minarets, which is very rare in the world. At first glance, visitors are struck by the huge 23-meter dome. Opening hours: closed for visitors during prayer, that is, after the call to prayer, you can enter the temple in 30-40 minutes. Address: Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd No:10, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul.

Istanbul Archaeological Museum

The leading history museum in the Republic of Turkey. It exhibits unique archaeological finds from the times of Ancient Egypt, Assyria, Greece and the Ottoman Empire. A detailed tour of the museum requires at least 3-4 hours. Opening hours: Every day, from 9:00 to 17:00. Address: Alemdar Cad. Osman Hamdi Bey Yokuşu Sk. 34122 Gülhane/Fatih/İSTANBUL.

Suleymaniye Mosque

One of the largest mosques in the Turkish metropolis and its symbol. The building was recently restored and today looks as it was intended in the 16th century. The area around the mosque contains the tomb of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and his Slavic wife Roxolana. Opening hours: daily from 8:30–11:30, 13:00–14:30, 15:30–16:45. Open for visits until 13:30 on Fridays. The mosque is closed during prayer times. Address: Süleymaniye, Prof. Sıddık Sami Onar Cd. No:1, 34116 Fatih/İSTANBUL.

Galata Tower

The best place for beautiful photos against the backdrop of Istanbul's breathtaking panoramas is the Galata Tower. It is from here that the city can be seen at a glance. Many tourists prefer to climb to the top of the tower after sunset. The height of the tower is 61 meters. There is a restaurant and a nightclub on the territory, and an observation deck at the top. Opening hours: daily, in summer – from 8:30 to 23:00, in winter – from 8:30 to 22:00. Address: Bereketzade, Galata kulesi, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul.

Beautiful places worth visiting

When going to the best city in Turkey, be sure to visit not only historical sights, but also beautiful places. TOP-4 beautiful places in Istanbul:

Gulhane Park

Situated next to Topkapi Palace, it is considered the oldest park in Istanbul. It was once part of the closed royal gardens. Today, these places are open to everyone. Gulhane Park offers beautiful views of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. The best time for a walk is spring, when everything around is blooming and fragrant. A large-scale tulip festival takes place in April. Opening hours: daily, from 9:00 to 17:00. Address: Cankurtaran Mh., Kennedy Cd., 34122 Fatih/İstanbul.

Miniaturk Park

A good way to get to know all of Turkey without leaving Istanbul is to visit Miniaturk Park. Here you can see all the masterpieces of Turkish architecture in miniature, on a scale of 1:25. Opening hours: daily, from 9:00 to 18:00. Address: Örnektepe Mahallesi, İmrahor Cd. 7/1, 34445 Beyoğlu/İstanbul.

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the most colorful places in Istanbul, where you can feel the real rhythm of city life. It is located in the heart of the metropolis – the Sultanahmet district, near the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The Grand Bazaar is not only the largest market in the world, but also a real city within a city. There are more than 60 streets, about 4,500 shops and stores, its own mosques, schools, baths and cafes. Prices are inflated, so you must bargain with the sellers! Working hours: daily, from 9:00 to 19:00. Closed on Sundays and holidays. Address: Beyazıt Mh., Kalpakçılar Cd. No:22, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul.

Skyscraper "Sapphire"

The 236-meter-high skyscraper offers a view of the whole of Istanbul. There is an observation deck for tourists. It is best to visit this place in the evening, when the city is illuminated. Opening hours: daily, from 10:00 to 22:00. Address: Emniyetevleri Mahallesi, Eski Büyükdere Cd. No:1, 34415 Kağıthane/İstanbul.

Antalya

Antalya is the most popular tourist city in Turkey, located on the Mediterranean coast. The main advantages of the resort are beautiful nature and climate, clean beaches and a huge number of historical attractions. Antalya has all the advantages of a city with a population of over a million, while remaining very comfortable for recreation and life. There is a low crime rate, excellent transport accessibility, a large selection of entertainment, equipped resort areas.

Historical facts

Over its long history, the name of this resort, included in our rating of beautiful cities by the sea in Turkey, has changed more than once. The most famous of them are the Greek Attalia and the Seljuk Adalia. The greatest influence on the culture and architecture of the city was exerted by the Hellenes, Romans, Seljuk Turks, Byzantines and Ottomans. Interesting historical facts:

• The exact age of Antalya is unknown. However, according to historical data, it is more than 2,000 years old, as the first mention dates back to 159 BC.
• Until the decline of Byzantium, the city was considered Christian, despite the fact that Islam began to appear here about 1,000 years ago.
• When World War I ended, Antalya was controlled by Italian occupation forces for almost two years.

Attractions

Antalya is one of the best cities for vacation, as here, in addition to the beaches, there is something to see and where to go. Tourists are especially attracted by unique attractions right on the territory of the city:

Yivli Minaret and Mosque

The symbol of Antalya, built during the Seljuk Empire by Alaeddin Keykubat. The architectural forms are fully consistent with the Seljuk culture. The mosque at the minaret is operational. It is also called the Great Mosque. Nearby is an Ottoman chapel and several tombs from the 14th century. Opening hours: daily from 11:00 to 23:00, Sundays from 11:00 to 21:00. Address: Selçuk Mahallesi, Yivliminare Cami, Muratpaşa/Antalya.

Hadrian's Gate

The triumphal arch was built in 130 AD for Hadrian, the emperor of Rome. During this period, Antalya flourished as a major port city, surrounded by strong walls against the attacks of invaders. Hadrian's Gate is a well-preserved part of the sea citadel. Opening hours: daily. Address: Atatürk Cad., No:36/1, Muratpaşa/Antalya.

Hydirlyk Tower

The tower was built in the 2nd century AD and is only 14 meters high. It is located on a hill in Karaalioglu Park. It is not known for certain what functions it served. It is believed that the structure served as a watchtower and was used as a port lighthouse. For tourists, Hıdırlık is a popular attraction and a place with beautiful panoramas of the city and the old harbor. Opening hours: daily, 24 hours. Address: Kılınçarslan, Hıdırlık Sk. No:50, 07100 Muratpaşa/Antalya.

Ruins of Aspendos

An ancient city founded around 1000 BC, located a few kilometers from Antalya. It was under the rule of the Greeks and Romans at different times. Tourists come to see the ancient amphitheater and some other buildings that have been well preserved to this day. In addition, in the spring and summer, Aspendos hosts an opera and ballet festival. Opening hours: daily, from 8:00 to 16:00. Address: Sarıabalı, Aspendos Yolu, 07500 Serik/Antalya.

The ancient city of Termessos

The ancient city is located near Antalya, in a mountainous area, so it is not so easy to get to. To reach the highest points of the attraction, you will have to overcome a rocky path. Termessos was significantly damaged by earthquakes. However, the amphitheater, located on the slope of the hill, is well preserved. It offers stunning views of the mountains. Opening hours: daily, from 8:00 to 19:00. Address: Bayatbademleri Mahallesi, Termessos Antik Kenti, Döşemealtı/Antalya.

Perge

This ancient Roman city is located 17 km from the center of Antalya. It was founded in the Bronze Age. Some time after the arrival of the Romans, the city became one of the most beautiful in the region. During the Byzantine rule, Perge was an important religious center. Opening hours: daily. From April 1 to October 1: 8:00-20:00. From October 1 to April 1: 8:30-19:00. Address: Barbaros Mahallesi, Perge Antik Kenti, Perge Yolu, Aksu/Antalya.

Beautiful places worth visiting

Antalya is one of the top cities in Turkey, where a large number of beautiful and interesting places to visit are concentrated. We will tell you about just a few of them:

Kaleici

Kaleiçi or the old town is located in the very center of Antalya. Narrow winding streets, houses with ancient facades, cozy restaurants and cafes, small private hotels – it is interesting not only to walk here, but also to try Turkish national cuisine or stay overnight. Kaleiçi was built during the reign of the Romans, near the old harbor. Today, only a few walls and gates remain from the citadel that protected residential areas. Available for visiting: daily. Address: Selçuk Mahallesi, Antalya Kaleiçi (Old Town), Uzun Çarşı Sokak, Muratpaşa/Antalya.

Old Harbor

The Old Harbor of Antalya is one of the most beautiful places in the resort, where luxury yachts are moored, and cafes and restaurants, noisy bazaars and fashionable boutiques are also located. In ancient times, the harbor was an economic center and was the key to Antalya's prosperity, as it was here that traders from all nearby regions flocked. Today, resort guests come here for shopping and pleasant relaxation. Open for visiting: daily. Address: Selçuk Mah., Kaleiçi Marina, İskele Cad., Muratpaşa/Antalya.

Duden waterfalls

Want unforgettable experiences and outdoor recreation? Go to the Duden Waterfalls. The Duden River, flowing down from the Taurus Mountains, forms two natural waterfalls here: the upper one, 15 meters high, and the lower one, twenty meters high. In the picturesque valley near the waterfalls there are restaurants, picnic areas where you can have a great time with the whole family. Opening hours: daily. Address: Çağlayan Mahallesi, Düden Kıyı Şelalesi, Lara Caddesi, Muratpaşa/Antalya.

Konyaalti Beach

The main beach of Antalya and another beautiful place, located in the west of the resort. Its length is about 7 km. Fully equipped for a beach holiday. Nearby there is a park with cafes, restaurants, pubs, hotels. Available for visiting: daily, without restrictions. Address: Konyaaltı Plajı, Kuşkavağı Mahallesi, Konyaaltı/Antalya.

Koprulu Canyon

Köprülü is a national park covering an area of approximately 336 km2. Its most popular place is the deep gorge through which the Kopru River flows. In some places, the canyon is 400 meters deep. The length of the gorge is 22.5 km. The canyon attracts rafting and rafting enthusiasts. In addition, there are small restaurants and recreation areas on its banks. Open to visitors: daily. Address: Bozyaka Mahallesi, Köprülü Kanyon Milli Parkı, Manavgat/Antalya.

Bursa

Thinking about which cities to visit in Turkey? Be sure to include Bursa in your travel list. This city is the fourth largest in the Turkish Republic, located in the northwest of the country. In ancient times, it was the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, so most of its attractions belong to the early period of Ottoman rule. The ancient settlements of the Seljuks and Ottomans that have been found are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Historical facts

The lands of what is now Bursa were first inhabited about 5,200 years ago. Important facts in the history of the ancient Turkish city:

• During the Antiquity, the city of Sius was founded here, which was renamed Prusa 200 years later. Already in the 1st century BC, the city was owned by the Romans, and after the collapse of the empire, it belonged to Byzantium for several centuries.
• In the 12th century, Bursa was conquered by the Ottomans, who founded the first capital of the state here. Later, the capital was moved to Edirne. During the Ottoman Empire, the city remained an important economic center, where mass production of silk was established.
• The earthquakes and fires that occurred in 1855 caused significant damage to Bursa.
• During the Greco-Turkish War in 1920, Bursa was captured by the Greeks, but after 2 years the region returned to Turkey.
• Since the founding of the Turkish Republic and up to the present day, Bursa has been one of the main industrial centers of the state, due to which the city's population is growing rapidly.

Attractions

Bursa has quite a few attractions and most of them are Muslim. We recommend visiting:

Ulu Jami Mosque

The majestic mosque was built in the 14th century and is an example of Seljuk architecture. It has 20 domes, which is not a standard for mosque construction. Inside Ulu Cami there are more than 190 inscriptions, which are an example of Islamic calligraphy. In addition, on the territory of the mosque are relics brought from the holy city of Mecca for Muslims. Opening hours: daily, morning and afternoon. Address: Nalbantoğlu Mahallesi, Atatürk Cd., 16010 Osmangazi/Bursa.

Mausoleum of the founders of the Ottoman Empire

Bursa is home to the mausoleum of the founders of the Ottoman Empire and their families. The building is finished with white marble on the outside, and has a simple interior with green tiles. It is of great importance in the history of Turkey. Tourists are most attracted by the luxurious mausoleum of Sultan Mehmet I and the sarcophagi of his children, which are installed along the wall. Opening hours: daily, from 8:00 to 17:00. Address: Osmangazi Mahallesi, Yiğitler Cd. No:4, 16040 Osmangazi/Bursa.

Sultan Emir Mosque

A 14th-century mosque whose architecture reflects the classic rococo style typical of the Ottoman Empire at that time. The building has 4 minarets and a mausoleum of Sultan Emir. Every year, Muslim pilgrims from different countries come here. There are beautiful fountains around the mosque, and it offers wonderful views of the city. Opening hours: daily, morning and afternoon. Address: Emirsultan Mahallesi, Emir Sultan Cami, 16360 Yıldırım/Bursa.

Green Mosque

One of the most interesting sights of Bursa, built by order of Mehmed I. Date of construction – 1419. The facades of the mosque are decorated with snow-white marble on the outside, and green and blue materials were used for the interior decoration. The Green Mosque is part of the Yesil religious complex. Opening hours: daily, from 8:00 to 17:00. Address: Yeşil Mh., 16360 Yıldırım/Bursa.

Muradiye Complex

The complex is located in the old part of the city. It includes a mosque, a bathhouse, a hospice, a hospital, a school and a cemetery. The mausoleum of Sultan Murat II, famous for his simplicity and modesty, is also located here. Opening hours: daily, from 7:00 to 19:00. Address: Muradiye, Prf. Dr. Halil İnalcık Sk., 16050 Osmangazi/Bursa.

Beautiful places worth visiting

The list of beautiful places in Bursa is quite extensive, so in our article we will only focus on the most popular of them:

Cable car

Bursa Teleferik is located on one of the natural attractions of the city – Mount Uludag. There is also a popular ski resort here. The cable car rises to a height of 1,800 meters, from where stunning views of the mountains and Bursa open up. The cable car stops several times along the way. At one of these stops there is a nature reserve, at some of the others there are picnic areas. Open for visiting: daily, from 10:00 to 18:00, in summer the cable car operates from 8:00 to 20:00. Address: Piremir Mah. Teferruc Istasyonu No: 88 Yildirim / Bursa.

Silk Market Koza Hani

The Silk Market is a real oriental bazaar, filled with the aromas of spices and oriental sweets. There are a large number of shops with a huge assortment of famous Turkish silk scarves. Open for visiting: Monday through Friday from 8:00 to 19:30, Saturday from 8:00 to 20:00, Sunday from 10:30 to 18:30. Address: Nalbantoğlu Mahallesi, Uzunçarsı Cad., 16010 Osmangazi/Bursa.

Cumalikizik Village

For those who dream of seeing Turkey as it was several centuries ago, we recommend going to the village of Cumalikizik. Old cobbled streets and houses, a restaurant serving village cuisine – all this surrounded by mountains creates a completely unique atmosphere and literally immerses you in the past. Available for visiting: daily. Address: Cumalıkızık Mahallesi, 16370 Yıldırım/Bursa.

Reshat Oyal Cultural Park

The Culture Park is the symbol and highlight of Bursa. The park area is 391 m2. It was built in 1955 by the mayor of the city, Reşat Oyal. It is considered the oldest central city park. A large amount of greenery, pedestrian and bicycle paths, playgrounds will allow you to have a good time with the whole family. Today, the park is in a somewhat neglected state. However, the municipalities have already allocated a budget for its modernization. Available for visiting: daily. Address: Gaziakdemir, Çekirge Cd. No:6, 16190 Osmangazi/Bursa.

Izmir

The list of beautiful cities in Turkey, of course, would be incomplete without Izmir, a popular tourist destination. Izmir is the second largest port city in the Turkish Republic after the metropolis of Istanbul. It is located on the coast of the Aegean Sea, on the territory where the ancient Greek city of Smyrna, which was burned in 1922, was located.

Historical facts

Izmir is considered one of the oldest cities in Asia Minor. According to one legend, it was here that Homer, who wrote the Odyssey and the Iliad, was born. At different times, the region was visited by Alexander the Great, Tamerlane and other outstanding military leaders. Izmir received its modern name only during the Ottoman Empire. Interesting historical facts about Izmir:

• The city's founding date is considered to be the 4th millennium BC. There are legends that Smyrna was founded by Tantalus, the son of Zeus and Smyrna, the queen of the Amazons.
• The territory of the ancient city was inhabited by the Aeolians, later the Ionians, Romans, and Byzantines.
• Ancient Rome conquered Smyrna in 133 BC. It was during this era that the settlement reached its peak. After the fall of the Roman Empire and the arrival of the Byzantines, the city gradually declined and lost its significance.
• When Byzantium fell, the settlement was captured by the Knights of Malta, and later came under the control of Genoa.
• Smyrna was conquered by Tamerlane in 1402, and in the 16th century the city was captured by the Ottomans.
• During World War I, Smyrna was occupied by the Greeks. After the establishment of the Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk returned the region to the state. The city adopted its current name in 1928.

Attractions

Izmir has preserved many historical sites to this day, the most famous of which are:

Church of St. Polycarp

The Catholic Cathedral was built in the 17th century. It is the oldest functioning Christian church in the city. The interior of the temple is decorated with beautiful frescoes. Interesting fact: during the burning of Smyrna in 1922, which destroyed most of the buildings, the building survived. Many believers call this a real miracle. Opening hours: daily, except Sunday, from 15:00 to 17:00. Address: Akdeniz, Necatibey Blv. no:2/A, 35210 Konak/İzmir.

Hissar Mosque

Hisar Mosque is the largest mosque in Izmir. It is located near the Kemeralti Market. The domes are made in blue and gold colors, which is typical for Izmir. There is a women's gallery on the territory of the building, decorated with roses and grapes. Opening hours: daily, from 8:00 to 12:30. Address: Konak Mahallesi, Hisar Camii, 904. Sokak/İzmir.

Izmir Archaeological Museum

Some of the exhibits in the museum are real treasures. For example, a bronze statue of a runner from the Hellenistic period, which was found at the bottom of the Aegean Sea near the ancient settlement of Kim. Opening hours: Every day except Monday. Winter: 8:30 – 17:30, Summer: 8:00 – 19:00. Address: Konak Mahallesi, Bahri Baba Parkı, Halil Rıfat Paşa Cd. No:4, 35260 Konak/İzmir.

Kadifekale Fortress

According to legend, Alexander the Great chose the site on Mount Pagos to build the acropolis of Smyrna. Today, almost nothing remains of the Greek settlement. Most of the fortifications that have been found date back to the times of Ancient Rome, including the amphitheater located on the slope of the mountain. The site of the ancient Kadifekale Fortress offers beautiful views of the Gulf of Izmir. Opening hours: Daily, 8:30 – 18:30. Address: Kadifekale, 5271. Sk. 9-11, 35270 Konak/İzmir.

Agora Open Air Museum

Agora is the central square of the ancient city of Smyrna. It was destroyed by an earthquake in 178, but was later rebuilt by order of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius. The Faustinus Gate and the Corinthian colonnade are located here. Archaeological excavations are still being carried out at this site. Opening hours: 8.30 am to 5.30 pm, daily except public and religious holidays. Address: Namazgah Mahallesi, Agora Ören Yeri, Tarık Sarı Sokak, Konak/İzmir.

Kestane Pazari Mosque

The multi-domed structure is also called the Chestnut Market Mosque. It was built in 1667. The mosque’s distinctive feature is its amazingly beautiful mihrab or niche, which points in the direction of the holy city of Mecca. Opening hours: daily, 8:00–18:00. Address: Konak, 872. Sk. No:52, 35250 Konak/İzmir.

The ancient Greek city of Pergamon

Geographically located in the province of Izmir. In the 3rd century BC, the ancient Greek city was the capital of the powerful state of the Attalids, later it came under the rule of Rome. The largest library and medical center were located here. Pergamon is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, which allowed preserving the remaining ruins of the theater, gymnasium, burial mounds and sanctuaries, and the altar. Opening hours: daily, in winter, the museum is open from 10:00 to 16:00, in summer – from 08:30 to 18:45 Address: 21 Kale Çeşme Sokak, Bergama 35700, İzmir.

Beautiful places worth visiting

Apart from the attractions, Izmir has several beautiful places that are a must-see:

Cordon Embankment

The famous embankment is the calling card of Izmir, the appearance of which has changed for the better in recent years. Today, landscaping works have been carried out here, there are pedestrian and bicycle paths, and in the eastern part of the promenade there are coffee shops and restaurants. Open to visitors: daily, 24 hours. Address: Alsancak, 35250, Konak/İzmir.

Kemeralti Market

The bustling eastern bazaar resembles a real labyrinth with a large number of shops, stores, coffee shops, restaurants, mosques, synagogues and artisan workshops. We recommend spending at least a day exploring this place. A leisurely walk will allow you to see picturesque colorful streets and cozy courtyards hidden from prying eyes, ancient caravanserais, in general, the real Izmir. Open for visiting: daily, from 6:00 to 19:00. Address: Kızlarağası, Konak Mahallesi, 906. Sk. No:15, 35250 Konak/İzmir.

Fethiye

Fethiye is the pearl of the Aegean coast of Turkey. It is included in our list of the most interesting cities recommended for visiting. Ancient Lycian rock tombs, clear turquoise sea and beautiful beaches, fascinating nature, favorable ecological conditions are the undeniable advantages of Fethiye.

Historical facts

In ancient times, Fethiye was called Telmessos. According to legend, the god Apollo fell in love with the beautiful girl Agenor, the youngest daughter of King Phoenix. He turned into a small dog and snuck into the shy princess's chambers. The princess fell in love with the animal, after which Apollo again took his human form. Later, they had a son, Telmessos, which means "land of fire." But legends remain legends. We will tell you about the known historical facts:

• Experts believe that the settlement appeared in the 5th century BC.
• In ancient times, the city was considered one of the most famous centers of prophecy. The predictions received in Telmessos had a great influence on the course of historical events.
• During the Hellenic and Roman periods, the city had an active cultural life, and most of the townspeople were wealthy.
• In 547 BC, the city was captured by the Persians. Later, the settlement came under the rule of Alexander the Great.
• Over the centuries, Telmessos came under the rule of Rome, the Kingdom of Pergamon, the Lycian Federation, and even Egypt. Eventually, the region became part of the Ottoman Empire.
• Fethiye received its modern name in 1934, in honor of the military pilot Fethi Bey.

Attractions

Many foreigners consider Fethiye to be the most beautiful city to live in Turkey. And not only because of the beautiful nature and climate, but also because there are a large number of interesting sights concentrated here. The most famous of them are:

Roman Amphitheater

The Roman amphitheater in Fethiye is partially excavated. It was built in the 2nd century BC. The capacity of the building is about 6,000 people. The upper tiers of the amphitheater offer panoramic views of the sea and the city. Opposite the theater there is a park where you can relax in the shade of the trees. Opening hours: daily, at the moment the amphitheater is officially under reconstruction. Address: Karagözler, 48870 Fethiye/Muğla.

Ruins of Tlos

The mountain range surrounding Fethiye contains the ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Tlos. Near the Acropolis Hill, the ruins of an Ottoman tower have survived to this day. During the Ottoman rule, this place was used by bandits. Opening hours: Daily, 9:00 to 20:00. Address: Yakaköy Mahallesi, Tlos Ören Yeri, Saklıkent Yolu, Fethiye/Muğla.

Ghost Village Kayakoy

Until the beginning of the 20th century, Kayakoy was a prosperous town. It is located a few kilometers from Fethiye. Turks and Greeks lived here side by side until 1923, when they were forcibly resettled. These sad facts in history led to the desolation of the city with a unique history. Today, tourists come here to see the ruins of the Katapongagya and Taxiarch churches, where beautiful interior decoration elements have been preserved to this day. Opening hours: Summer – from 9:00 to 20:00, Winter – until 17:30. Address: Kayaköy Mahallesi 48300, Fethiye / Muğla.

Ruins of the Lycian city of Pinara

Tourists are attracted to the ruins of Pinara by the jagged cliffs that contain more than 900 stone tombs and mausoleums. Near the ruins of Pinara, there is a magnificent view of snow-white mountain peaks surrounded by green forests. Opening hours: 24 hours. Address: Yakabağ Mahallesi, Pınara Antik Kenti, Eşen/Fethiye/Seydikemer, Fethiye/Muğla.

Tomb of Amyntas

The Tomb of Amyntas is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Fethiye. The huge tomb was carved directly into the rock in honor of Amyntas, the son of Hermagyos. It dates back to 350 BC. The view of the landmark is especially majestic at sunset. Opening hours: Every day, from 8:30 to 17:00. Address: Kesikkapı Mahallesi, Amintas Kaya Mezarları, 117. Sokak, Fethiye/Muğla.

Beautiful places worth visiting

The variety of beautiful natural recreations in Fethiye will be the envy of almost any Turkish resort. We will tell you about some beautiful places in Fethiye:

Blue Lagoon

Situated in close proximity to Fethiye, in the village of Oludeniz. This is where one of the most picturesque beaches in Turkey is located. The turquoise sea, white sand, a bay protected on three sides by mountains and a pine forest are the first things tourists notice when they arrive in this natural paradise. Open to visitors: daily. Address: Ölüdeniz Mah., Fethiye/Muğla.

Valley of the Butterflies

Another incredibly beautiful beach located between two rocky cliffs. The name of the beach is due to the fact that Jersey tiger butterflies live here. This section of the coast can only be reached through the mountains or by boat, which leaves here several times a week from Oludeniz during the holiday season. Open to visitors: daily. Address: Butterfly Valley Kelebekler Vadisi Uzunyurt Mahallesi 48300 Fethiye/Muğla.

Calis Beach

5 kilometers from the center of Fethiye there is another interesting place – a narrow pebble beach Calis, where hotels, pubs and restaurants are huddled. The peculiarity of the beach is that it is patronized by British expats. And it was here that several scenes from the James Bond film "Skyfall" were filmed. Open to visit: daily. Address: Foça Mh.,, Calis Beach, 1289. Sk., Fethiye/Muğla.

Gemiler Island

The island is 400 m wide and 1,000 m long and is located south of Fethiye and has another name – the island of St. Nicholas. Despite its small area, a large number of ruins from the Byzantine era are concentrated here. Among the piles of ancient buildings, you can see the remains of temples, residential buildings, tombs, shops and other ancient objects. Open to visitors: daily. Address: Gemile 48300, Fethiye / Muğla. Of course, it is quite difficult to determine which city in Turkey is the best. One thing can be definitely stated: the Turkish Republic is an amazing, colorful, favorable for living and very diverse country in which everyone will find something special for themselves, regardless of their goals and plans for the future.