Overview of Regions

Turkey is vast and incredibly diverse. Six regions that couldn't be more different:

🏙️ Istanbul

For whom: City travelers, history buffs, foodies, night owls
The megacity on the Bosphorus is the cultural and economic heart of Turkey. Here, 2,700 years of history meet one of the most dynamic metropolises in the world. The old town Sultanahmet with Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapı Palace, the Grand Bazaar with over 4,000 shops, the hip Karaköy with galleries and rooftop bars, the Asian Kadıköy with its bustling street market — Istanbul needs at least 4–5 days, better a whole week.

🏛️ Aegean Coast

For whom: Culture travelers, beach lovers, gourmets, sailors
The Turkish west coast combines ancient high culture with Mediterranean lifestyle. Ephesus is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world, Pergamon towers over the plain, and Bodrum combines party culture with the charm of an old fishing village. Çeşme and Alaçatı are the summer retreats of the Istanbul elite: windsurfing spots, boutique hotels, and excellent restaurants with sea views.

🏖️ Turkish Riviera

For whom: Families, beach vacationers, golfers, all-inclusive fans
The coast around Antalya is the tourist heart of Turkey — and much more than resort hotels. The old town Kaleiçi in Antalya is a jewel, the ancient sites of Side, Aspendos, and Perge are top-notch, the beaches of Lara, Konyaaltı, and Alanya are among the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. Plus, the Düden and Manavgat waterfalls and a mild climate with 300 sunny days.

🎈 Cappadocia

For whom: Adventurers, photographers, culture travelers, romantics
The surreal tuff landscape of Central Anatolia with its fairy chimneys, cave churches, and underground cities is unique worldwide. Göreme is the tourist center, Uçhisar offers the best panoramic view, and the Ihlara Valley is a spectacular gorge with Byzantine rock churches. The hot air balloon ride at sunrise is a bucket-list experience.

⛵ Lycian Coast

For whom: Hikers, individual travelers, nature lovers, divers
The coast between Fethiye and Antalya is the wildest and most beautiful in Turkey. Ölüdeniz with its Blue Lagoon, Kaş as a charming diving mecca, the ghost town Kayaköy, the turtle beach Dalyan, and the 540 km long Lycian Way — here Turkey is at its most original.

🌊 Black Sea Coast

For whom: Off-the-beaten-path seekers, tea drinkers, nature lovers, mountain hikers
The green north coast is Turkey's secret. Trabzon with the spectacular Sumela Monastery, the high pastures (Yaylalar) of Ayder, tea plantations as far as the eye can see, and a dramatic coast reminiscent of Norway. Hardly any German tourist ventures here — that's exactly what makes it so appealing.