From the glowing minarets of Istanbul to the golden plains of Mesopotamia, Türkiye is more than a place to visit. It is a land of ancient stories waiting to be lived. At Puerto Travel, we don’t believe in just visiting. We believe in experiencing the heart of the country.
If you’re planning a trip for 2026, here is our guide to the 15 best things to do in Turkey.
1. Watch the Sunrise from a Hot Air Balloon in Cappadocia
This is the crown jewel of things to do in Turkey. As the sun rises, colorful balloons float above volcanic formations, fairy chimneys, and cave dwellings.
- Why it’s special: The unique topography makes Cappadocia one of the few places on Earth where balloons can fly close to the ground and rock formations.
2. Trace the Byzantine and Ottoman Heritage in Istanbul
Istanbul feels like a living museum. On a guided city tour, you’ll visit the Hagia Sophia, a Byzantine-era landmark, and the Blue Mosque, known for its 20,000 Iznik tiles.
- Don’t miss Topkapi Palace, where Ottoman Sultans ruled for centuries, and the Basilica Cistern, an underground water palace.
3. Walk the Marble Streets of Ancient Ephesus
Ephesus was once the second-largest city in the Roman Empire and is a remarkable archaeological site. Walking down Curetes Street is like stepping back in time.
- Highlight: Stand in front of the Celsus Library, which once held 12,000 scrolls.
4. Marvel at the Sculptures of Aphrodisias
Aphrodisias is often overlooked, but it is stunning. It was once the world’s center for marble sculpture. Its stadium is the best-preserved in the Mediterranean, and the Sebasteion temple has reliefs that rival Europe’s finest art.
5. Witness the Dawn of Civilization at Göbeklitepe
Göbeklitepe, in Southeastern Turkey, is the oldest temple ever discovered, dating back 12,000 years. It changed what we know about the shift to settled life.
- Puerto Experience: On our East Anatolia tours, expert guides explain the mysterious T-shaped pillars and animal carvings of Gobeklitepe.
6. Bathe in the Thermal Travertines of Pamukkale
Pamukkale, called the Cotton Castle, is a natural wonder with white terraces of calcium-rich water. After walking the terraces, you can swim in the Cleopatra Antique Pool, gliding over Roman columns that fell during an earthquake centuries ago.
- Pro Tip: Pack your swimsuits and towels. There are lockers available at Pamukkale.
7. Experience a Bosphorus Dinner Cruise
When night falls, Istanbul changes. On a dinner cruise, you’ll see the lit-up Maiden’s Tower, the Bosphorus Bridge, and Ottoman mansions from the water. Enjoy traditional music and belly dancing.
Nothing defines a Turkish summer like a Blue Cruise. Boarding a traditional wooden Gulet from Bodrum or Fethiye, you’ll explore hidden Aegean bays only accessible by boat. It’s the ultimate slow-travel experience.
- Puerto Experience: We offer party and mixed-age boats for a variety of experiences.
9. Get Lost in the Golden Architecture of Mardin
Mardin is a city where time seems to stand still. Its honey-colored stone houses overlook the Mesopotamian plains. As you explore its narrow alleys, old madrasas, and lively streets, it feels like a scene from One Thousand and One Nights.
10. Indulge in an Authentic Turkish Bath (Hamam)
A Hamam is more than a wash; it’s a cultural ritual. In a historic bathhouse like Cagaloglu or Hurrem Sultan, you’ll enjoy a steam sauna, a vigorous body scrub (kese), and a relaxing bubble massage.
- Puerto Experience: You can also experience a hammam in Pamukkale, Kusadasi, or Cappadocia.
11. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary
Hidden in the green mountains near Ephesus, this simple stone house is believed to be Mary’s final home. It is sacred for both Christians and Muslims and offers a deep sense of peace.
12. Go on a Turkish Street Food Safari
Turkish food is more than Doner. Try Lahmacun (Turkish pizza), Simit (sesame bread), and Midye Dolma (spiced rice-stuffed mussels) at the piers. Each bite tells a story of the region. We have Gourme Tour available in Istanbul.
13. Bargain for Treasures at the Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar has over 60 streets and 4,000 shops, making it one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. With hand-woven silk carpets, detailed ceramics, and spices, it’s a paradise for craft lovers.
14. Watch the Mystical Whirling Dervishes
The Sema Ceremony is a fascinating display of Sufi spirituality. Watching the dervishes spin in rhythm is a moving experience that shows the mystical side of Turkish culture.
A Turkish breakfast (Kahvaltı) is a feast of olives, honey, clotted cream (kaymak), different cheeses, spicy sausages (sucuk), and plenty of Turkish tea. It’s more than just breakfast; it’s a celebration of life.
🚀 Why Book Your 2026 Adventure with Puerto Travel?
Turkey is a big country, and visiting places like Mardin, Gobeklitepe, and Ephesus on one trip can be challenging.
At Puerto Travel, we focus on making your trip smooth and high-quality:
- 3 Domestic Flights Included: We save you from long 20-hour bus rides.
- Expert Guides: Our guides are historians who bring the ruins of Aphrodisias and Ephesus to life.
- Curated Itineraries: We offer everything from Istanbul city tours to Eastern Anatolia adventures.
Explore our most popular tour: 🔗 [8-Day Turkey Icons: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus & Pamukkale]