From Istanbul to Cappadocia: Must-See Places in Turkey This Year

Turkey is a country that is a mix of history, culture, and natural beauties. Once you land in Istanbul to your trip in the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, magic awaits you at every step. Turkey has something to offer to any traveller be it visiting mosques, markets or ancient ruins. Before you set out your journey, do not forget to organize your Turkey Visa.

It is a memorable place that does not only provide sightseeing, but actual experiences. You will be able to cruise between continents on the Bosphorus or to stroll through Roman-era ruins in Ephesus. The views in Turkey are memorable, whether it is the lively urban sceneries or the unrealistic nature. So what are the best places to visit in Istanbul to Cappadocia this year?

Here are the travel route from Istanbul to Cappadocia

1. Hagia Sophia, Istanbul

Hagia Sophia is a masterpiece of history in Istanbul that attracts people by its huge dome and the grandiose of architecture. It used to be a church and then a mosque and currently it is a museum. The combination of the Christian decorations of mosaics and Islamic elements speaks of centuries of cultural development and religious tolerance in its magnificent walls.

2. Blue Mosque, Istanbul

The Blue Mosque is a magnificent piece of Istanbul skyline in the form of its beautiful blue İznik tiles and six high minarets. The site also has some reasons to visit such as the calm interior, glamorous design and the serene atmosphere. It is a spiritual beauty house and architectural attractiveness that makes tourists and worshippers to be attracted.

3. Grand Bazaar, Istanbul

Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered market in the world with more than 4,000 stores spread like a maze.  The visitors will be able to visit colorful booths that will be full of antiques, jewellery, spices, pottery, and rugs among others. Besides being a shopping mall, you can get to know more about the Turkish culture, the local lifestyle, the craft and the cordiality of the traders.

4. Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul

The Bosphorus Strait is the most well-known natural object of Istanbul that divides Asia and Europe.  One will get breath taking scenes of palaces, mosques among other wonderful places by taking a boat ride on its glittering waterways.  The process of viewing the city in another angle is a beautiful and relaxing experience.

5. Pamukkale Travertines

Pamukkale is a beautiful natural wonder that is famed because of its snowy-white terraces. The terraces have been created by mineral rich thermal waters flowing down the hillside. The warm pools of surreal beauty are usually enjoyed by the visitors who walk barefooted. It is a quiet, picturesque, and relaxing break in the western Turkey.

6. Ephesus Ancient City

Ephesus used to be a flourishing city of Rome and today it is still an excellent archaeological site, which is well preserved and has great temples, marble streets and amphitheaters. Some of the notable ones include the Library of Celsus and the Great theatre. A visit here will provide a person with a mind blowing experience of how the ancient civilization existed and what life of Romans was.

7. Konya

Konya is considered as the birthplace of Rumi and spiritual capital of Whirling Dervishes. The Mevlana Museum attracts people who are interested in Sufi mysticism, and they can see the beautiful artifacts, and holy items are exposed. The cultural history and the peaceful and soothing atmosphere are one of the primary factors that make Konya a nice and satisfying city.

8. Salt Lake

Salt Lake (Tuz Golulu) extends as a silver mirror that gives a unique out-of-this-world view. The lake turns brilliant white crust when dried out, which reflects the sky. Visitors enjoy walking on its shiny surface, dreamy photographs and enjoy the calm, quiet ambiance.

9. Göreme Open-Air Museum, Cappadocia

This World Heritage Site is a curious group of rock-hewn churches, chapels and houses. It is adorned with frescoes of the 10th century and uncovers the life of early Christians in the area. The experience of walking through this carved sanctuary is very historical and spiritual in an exclusive environment.

10. Uchisar Castle, Cappadocia

The highest point of the area is the Uchisar Castle that extends above the valleys of Cappadocia. The panoramic sceneries on the top span over the surrealistic landscape of fairy chimneys and rock formations. The hewn rooms and tunnels provide an insight into the way in which people used to live in this rocky fortress.

Conclusion

Wherever you go in Turkey, you will never have a dull moment as the country is full of magnificent sights. No matter whether you are a history lover, nature lover, or a culture lover, each destination creates a memory. It is a land where the East and the West meet and each traveller finds something memorable on the way.

To those thinking of travelling, it is easy to obtain your Turkey Visa from UAE so that you can concentrate on the fun of visiting these amazing wonders. It is the open skies, history of richness and warm hospitality at every corner that will start your Turkish adventure.