The Best Cities to Visit in Turkey, with eSIM Travel Hacks

Antalya: Where Ancient Ruins Meet the Turquoise Coast

This sun-soaked district on the Turkish Riviera is another blend of ancient history and modern comfort. The Romans left behind much to see in their former port city, including Hadrian’s Gate (the entrance to Kaleiçi, Antalya’s beautifully restored old town), and the impressive ruins of Perge and Aspendos. Wind the charming streets of Kaleiçi before taking a dip in the blue waters of Konyaaltı Beach. Venture out to the picturesque Düden Waterfalls, or join an affordable boat trip by simply heading down to Antalya’s little marina. Whether your dream for travel in Turkey is adventuring through historic sites or lounging at an all-inclusive resort, Antalya has something for everyone.

Gaziantep: A Foodie Paradise in Eastern Turkey

More than its sights and sounds, which are worth traveling for in their own right, Gaziantep (also called Antep) is known throughout Turkey as the country’s gastronomical capital. You can travel all over Turkey and never experience as delectable or tender of a kebab as you would in Antep, but perhaps even more importantly there’s the baklava. The city’s flaky, syrup-soaked phyllo dessert is so beloved, Turks on the other side of the country are known to have their baklava shipped from Gaziantep.

But Antep’s culinary prowess doesn’t stop there. Be sure to try the hearty beyran çorbası, a lamb soup perfect for a hangover or chilly morning, or Katmer, a layered pastry, filled with clotted cream and pistachios. No visit to Gaziantep is complete without sampling the Antep fıstığı, the region’s prized pistachios, known for their exceptional flavor and quality, and the star filling of local baklava. Between food stops, get in your sightseeing: climb to the castle that looms over the city, visit the sleek Zeugma Mosaic Museum, home to a breathtaking collection of Roman mosaics, and explore the famous Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Copper Bazaar), where craftsmen still sell their intricate copperware, jewelry, and textiles. 

Bodrum: A Chic Coastal Retreat

This coastal city juts out of Western Turkey, where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean. It offers a mix of historical charm and modern luxury, with the medieval Bodrum Castle standing guard over the city. Stroll along the yacht-lined marina or drive out to one of Bodrum’s many bays – each one has its own personality, from hippie enclaves to ultra-luxury spots. And as the sun sets, Bodrum town comes alive with its vibrant nightlife.

Mardin: The Honey-Colored Mesopotamian Jewel

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Mesopotamian plains, Mardin is a city that feels frozen in time. One of the most-unique cities to visit in Turkey, Mardin’s honey-colored stone houses cascade down the hillside, making for a stunning view. The old city is a marvel, as are the intricate carvings of the Deyrulzafaran Monastery. The region is also known for its ancient wine production, which has recently experienced a bit of a revival. 

Safranbolu: A Charming Ottoman Town

The is one of the best cities in Turkey for folks who prefer less-crowded destinations in the middle of nature. Safranbolu is another of Turkey’s many UNESCO World Heritage sites, and is a Black Sea town known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. The cobblestone streets sport hundreds of traditional, red-roofed wooden houses, which make the city feel ultra-cozy. It was once a stop on Silk Road trade route, and known for its saffron, which can be sampled in the city’s super tasty local Turkish delight. It also has easy access to outdoor sports, like hiking, rafting, and canyoning, and Safranbolu’s beautiful hammam makes for a great post-hike activity.

Kaş: An Adventure Playground By the Sea

Kaş has everything for adventure seekers and laid-back beachgoers alike, with its crystal-clear waters, rugged coastline, and mountainous terrain. It’s known as the best spot in Turkey for scuba diving and snorkeling, and you can sea kayak through scenic bays, or hike the Lycian Way for breathtaking views. The small town’s chill vibes and fun nightlife make it great getaway for all types of travelers.

Istanbul: Where the Old and the New Collide

No list of the best cities in Turkey could ever leave off Istanbul. This chaotic, whirlwind of a city on the Bosphorus Strait spreads across two continents and is still a crossroads of the world’s civilizations to this day. The legacy of Istanbul, once Constantinople, is visible everywhere, from the tops of the minarets dotting the city down to its loose cobblestones. You can’t travel to Turkey without plumbing the depths of the underground Basilica Cistern, shopping till you drop in historic Grand Bazaar, feeling the architectural awe of the Hagia Sophia, and unwinding in a hammam, a traditional Turkish bathhouse. 

But more than its historic wonders, Istanbul also offers a thriving nightlife and modern local scene. Trendy nightclubs, bars, and restaurants line the streets, catering to Istanbulus and tourists alike, especially in hotspots like the European side’s Taksim and Beşiktaş, and the Asian side’s Kadıköy. High-end rooftop restaurants with panoramic views compete with traditional meyhanes serving meze and rakı. Art galleries and museums like Istanbul Modern and Pera Museum showcase contemporary exhibitions alongside old-school masterpieces. Bounce from old to new, ending each day with tea and a sunset on a Bosphorus ferry ride. 

To find out more about how to stay connected and avoid roaming charges while traveling in Turkey, check out our piece on the benefits, FAQs, and installation process for the Red Bull MOBILE eSIM.