Turkey combines magic, beauty, rich nature, and great civilization. It stands out as one of the world's most culturally, historically, and geographically rich countries, ranking sixth among the top tourist destinations globally. In 2011 alone, Turkey attracted nearly thirty-two million foreign tourists. The country has a wonderful climate year-round and is home to many important sceneries, including the Bosphorus Bridge, Sultanahmet Mosque, Galata Tower, Taksim Square, Hagia Sophia, Uzungol Lake, Cappadocia, and the beaches of Fethiye and Antalya. Each of these sites offers unique experiences not found in other cities around the world.
Turkey is a land of beauty and art, combining modern development with ancient history and civilization. Situated at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, it seamlessly mixes Eastern traditions with Western modernity.
Here is a list of the most beautiful Turkish cities you should visit.
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Istanbul City
Istanbul is the largest city in Europe and the eighth largest city in the world, as well as the largest city in Turkey, with a population of 16,047,000 people according to 2024 statistics. It serves as the country’s economic, commercial, and cultural focus, thanks to its strategic location between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean Sea and its connection of the Asian and European parts of Turkey through the famous Bosphorus Bridge.
Istanbul enjoys a relatively mild climate due to its position straddling two continents. Summers can be particularly hot, with temperatures reaching up to 37 degrees Celsius in July and August. Winters are cold, especially in January and February, with temperatures sometimes dropping to seven degrees below zero, accompanied by winter rains and snowfall.
The city is one of the most religiously diverse in Turkey, with Islam being the predominant religion, followed by Christianity. Turkish is the official language, but Arabic and English are also commonly used.
Istanbul is a major tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world due to its unique charm, stunning scenery, pleasant weather, and its picturesque location along the Bosphorus Strait.
Here are some of the most famous tourist attractions in Istanbul:
- Hagia Sophia Museum : It is one of the most beautiful architectural monuments in Istanbul. This place combines sanctity and luxury; it was originally a Christian cathedral. When the Islamic conquest of Istanbul occurred, it was converted into a mosque. After the end of Ottoman rule in Istanbul, it became a historical museum. The Hagia Sophia Museum and Mosque is located opposite the Sultanahmet Mosque in the Fatih area, on the European side of Istanbul, and it is one of the most important and oldest historical mosques in Istanbul.
- Bosphorus Bridge : The Bosphorus is the water body that divides the city of Istanbul into two parts: the Asian section and the European section. The Bosphorus Bridge was built in 1973 to span the Bosphorus Strait, connecting the two sections of Istanbul. One important detail about the Bosphorus Bridge is that it has a metal structure, with a length of 1,560 meters and a width of 33.5 meters. In 2007, a lighting system was installed to illuminate it at night, giving the city a charming view. About 180,000 vehicles pass through the Bosphorus Bridge every day, making it a key gateway to the city's trade and economy. One of the most interesting tourist activities in Istanbul is touring the Bosphorus by ferry. You cannot complete your visit to Istanbul without a Bosphorus tour to see Dolmabahçe Palace, Rumelihisarı, and the many forests and beautiful green areas.
- Taksim Square : Located in the heart of Istanbul, Taksim Square attracts nearly 3 million visitors daily, including many Arab and international tourists. It is a major hub for various activities and a prominent tourist destination. The square is home to the famous Istiklal Street, which is lined with shops, historic buildings, libraries, banks, cinemas, cafes, and both local and international restaurants. Additionally, several embassies and consulates, including those of the United States, France, Greece, and the United Kingdom, are located in this area. A notable feature of Istiklal Street is the historic tramway, which has been operating since 1875 and was revived in 1990 to enhance the area's historical atmosphere. The tramway travels from Taksim Square through Istiklal Street to Galata Tower, one of Istanbul’s most renowned historical landmarks.
Distinctive residential and investment projects in Istanbul :
-The Elie Saab Bosphorus stands out not only for its superior construction and luxurious living spaces but also for the compelling story behind its creation. While the high-quality design and sophisticated features are undeniably attractive, it is the Elie Saab brand that truly elevates the project.
- The project represents a perfect fusion of luxurious living and a celebrated fashion legacy, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate both high-end design and iconic style.
-Furthermore, this project represents a state of mind. Residents will feel immensely proud to say they own an Elie Saab apartment.
-Elie Saab Bosphorus finds its place in a very privileged area in the city, fusing classic flair with modern edge. Positioned near the Bosphorus Strait in the Kandilli area of the Uskudar district in Istanbul's Asian side, this district is considered for the elite residences and affluent residents, It is also known as the neighbourhood of the wealthy and celebrities.
-Spanning 18,500 square metres of land, this project features low-rise buildings that curve beautifully with the natural surroundings.
-With a total construction area of 55,228 square meters, This large area permits to create roomy homes, a range of amenities, and well-designed shared spaces. The scale of the project ensures every detail is carefully planned to offer an exceptional living experience.
-Inside, floor-to-ceiling glass windows fill the rooms with natural light, while large terraces provide stunning views of the Bosphorus. Besides, the sea-view apartments, ranging from 300 to 800 square metres.
-Elie Saab Bosphorus is unique for its villa-like comfort within a five-building complex, with only 92 apartments, considering residents privacy.
-Elie Saab Bosphorus includes 2,000 square metres dedicated to social areas, where residents can mingle, unwind, and have fun. These areas are provided to build community and create a lively, engaging atmosphere.
-The JW Marriott Tarabya residential project in Istanbul, Turkey is one of 9 in the whole world and is the first in Europe and the Middle East.
-JW Marriott is an American luxury hotel brand owned by Marriott International.
-It is located in the ancient Tarabya area in the European side of Istanbul, facing the Bosphorus Strait on one side and the extended forests of Belgrade on the other side.
-When you choose JW Marriott Tarabya, you get a property in 1 out of 9 residential projects in the whole world.
-This project provides wide options to suit all segments of the elite, as it starts from studios designated for offices with areas ranging from 39 square meters to 103 square meters.
-Offices are divided into a room and a hall, with an area of 120 to 131 square metres
-As for housing, it starts from options of one bedroom and a living room with an area of 81 square meters, up to 4 bedrooms and a living room with an area of up to 333 square meters.
-There are duplex options starting from 137 square meters up to 400 square meters.
-Providing facilities and services is one thing, but understanding the wants and needs of residential unit owners on the ground reality is another. Marriott's lodging staff is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and is always on hand to ensure someone truly cares about how you want to live.
-Delivery: july 2025
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Antalya City
Antalya, the "bride of the Turkish coast," is one of the most beautiful cities in Turkey. It is located on the Mediterranean Sea coast in the southwestern part of Turkey, situated on coastal slopes and surrounded by mountains on all sides. The population of Antalya is about 775,157 people. Antalya is known as a center for development and investment and is one of the most popular destinations for foreign tourists from all over the world, especially Europeans and Russians.
One of the most important tourist activities in the Turkish city of Antalya is visiting its beautiful waterfalls, which flow from the tops of the mountains to impress tourists with their magnificence and beauty. Each waterfall in Antalya has its own charm that distinguishes it from the rest, including:
- uden Waterfalls: This waterfall is set within a beautiful park that includes a number of restaurants and cafes. The scene where the waterfall meets the sea is one that will fascinate you.
- Kursunlu Falls: The second most beautiful waterfall in Antalya, Kursunlu Falls is located in the middle of a picturesque pine forest. Kursunlu Falls is a great hiking destination, offering a tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking views of the waterfalls flowing into the Oksu River, along with charming nature featuring unique trees and plants such as willows, figs, and wild olives.
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Fethiye city
The city of Fethiye is one of the most famous and beautiful coastal cities in Turkey. It is located on the Aegean Sea, which separates Turkey and Greece. The most notable characteristic of Fethiye is that it is situated on the ruins of Telmisos, an ancient archaeological city, where many remnants from the past can be found. The city was named after the Ottoman pilot Yüzbaşı Fethi, who embarked on the third Turkish flight during World War I. His plane crashed over the Golan, and the city was named in his honor to commemorate his sacrifice.
Fethiye is characterized by its natural backdrop of pine trees, which provides a breathtaking landscape. One of the most beautiful sites in the city is Dead Sea Bay, which extends along the shores for three kilometers. Its beaches are recognized as some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the world due to the gradation of water colors near the shore. The Dead Sea was named for its calmness and purity, and legends say it was named after a young man who drowned, prompting his beloved to throw herself in after him to be together.
Fethiye is located in Muğla Province on the Aegean coast of southern Turkey. It has a unique position where the Mediterranean meets the Aegean Sea, adding to its beauty.
The city of Muğla is one of Turkey's most renowned cities, known for its ancient history. It was historically known as Caria and has the longest coastline among Turkey's cities. Muğla is situated about 1,100 meters above sea level and is bordered to the east by the city of Antalya, to the south by the Mediterranean Sea, and to the west by the Aegean Sea.
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Bolu city
The city of Bolu is named after "Lake Abant Nature Park," which is named after the resort "Bolu Abant." Bolu is located in the northwest of Turkey, on the Black Sea, which is a vital point linking the capital Ankara and Istanbul. It is about 262 km from Istanbul and 192 km from Ankara. Bolu is one of the most beautiful tourist areas in Turkey, with a total area of 7,410 square kilometers and a population of more than 270,000. It is a mountainous area full of forests, with limited agricultural areas.
The city of Bolu is famous for its agricultural and dairy products, such as cheese and cream, most of which are sold and consumed locally. Bolu is also one of the most important trade corridors between Ankara and Istanbul, especially after the opening of a tunnel between the two cities in 2007. This has led travelers to discover and visit this beautiful city to rest and enjoy a meal.
The city of Bolu is ideal for hiking and climbing, thanks to its mountains, lakes, forests, and wildlife, such as deer.
The Turkish city of Bolu is one of the rare places that offer many advantages simultaneously. Its natural beauty is charming, with forests rich in diverse flora and fauna. The lakes, rivers, and beaches on the Black Sea coast enhance its beauty, and the hot springs at the foothills of the mountains and large snow-covered ski centers make it a perfect destination for both relaxation and sports enthusiasts.
The city of Bolu is a beautiful and green city, calm and cool in summer and snowy in winter. It is located at an altitude of 1,325 meters above sea level and features wonderful lakes such as Lake "Gölcük" and the famous Lake "Abant." Located 34 km southwest of Bolu, amid the high mountains at an altitude of 1,500 meters, Abant Resort is the center of life in this region. It offers a different beauty in each season, with many comfortable hotels and camping sites.
Abant Lake is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Turkey. It is considered one of the most beautiful natural lakes in the world due to its magnificent beauty and being surrounded by a large number of pine trees, oaks, and willows, which enhances its charm.
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Bursa City
Bursa city is located in the northwestern part of Turkey. It is the fourth most populous city in the country and is considered one of the best and most active Turkish cities in the industrial sector. Situated between Ankara, the capital of Turkey, and the beautiful city of Istanbul, Bursa is often referred to as "Bursa Green" due to its lush nature, surrounded by forests and various gardens. The city features parks, gardens, and a ski resort called Uludağ. Bursa is also a historic and archaeological area, encompassing several buildings and sites dating back to the Ottoman era.
Bursa is known as one of the most important agricultural areas in Turkey. It ranks first in the silk industry, renowned for silkworm breeding and mulberry tree cultivation. The city is also characterized by its automotive, textile, and dairy industries.
Furthermore, Bursa is a tourist destination visited year-round due to its pleasant weather and beautiful nature. One of its most prominent sights is Mount Uludağ, where events and activities such as the World Olympic Skiing competitions are held. The Green Mosque in Bursa is one of the most beautiful mosques in the region, featuring exquisite examples of Arabic calligraphy and decorative inscriptions.
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Cappadocia city
Cappadocia city is located in the center of Turkey, to the east of the Anatolian Plateau, and to the southwest of Kayseri city. Cappadocia is known by many names in historical sources: to the Persians, it was known as Katbatuka, meaning "the land of beautiful horses"; to the Elamites, it was known as Capta; and among the Akkadians, it was known as Toka. Cappadocia is a distinguished archaeological tourist city and was inscribed on the World Heritage List of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) during the ninth session of the Committee in 1985. Cappadocia is home to many unique landmarks, including Göreme Village, which offers stunning views over its valleys, labyrinths, and caves. One of the most popular activities in this village is taking balloon rides, and visitors can also explore the Church of the Evil Eye.