One of the easiest ways to see Turkey is by joining a tour. Most tours include arrangements for accommodation, meals, and transportation. A local guide adds value by explaining the history and highlights of each city and attraction, making the experience smoother and more informative.
Tours often include stops along the way for sightseeing, with routes that pass through scenic landscapes. Cities like Çanakkale, Izmir, Selçuk, Ephesus, and Pamukkale are must-visits, each featuring world-famous attractions and historical landmarks (HOKKAIDO JAPAN SITES).
Attractions in
Çanakkale, Turkey
About 4–5 hours’ drive from Istanbul, Çanakkale is a port city in northwestern Turkey and the gateway to both the ancient city of Troy and the Gallipoli Peninsula. The usual crossing points are Eceabat–Çanakkale or Gelibolu–Lapseki, with a short ferry ride over the Dardanelles Strait. Both routes provide sea breezes and coastal scenery before sightseeing begins in Çanakkale.
Ancient Troy
& The Trojan Horse Statue
Troy is the starting point in Çanakkale. One of the world’s most famous
archaeological sites, it dates back more than 4,000 years and was uncovered in
the 19th century. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, best known for its
connection to the legendary Trojan War. According to Greek mythology, the story
revolves around Trojan prince Paris and his abduction of Helen, which sparked a
ten-year conflict.
Troy’s long
history also includes periods of Balkan invasions, Greek and Roman rule, and
time as a Byzantine town before falling into ruins. Walking through the site,
it is possible to see ancient walls, excavation areas, and a small open-air
theater with tiered seating and a sunken stage.
A reconstructed
wooden Trojan Horse stands along the main route, an iconic symbol of the epic
legend. Many parts of Troy still resemble the depictions in the movie Troy,
with several structures preserved from ancient times.
Attractions in
Izmir, Turkey
An essential city for discovering western Turkey, Izmir is located on the Aegean coast and is Turkey’s third-largest city. It is a mix of modern urban life with ancient history dating back thousands of years. While Izmir itself has much to see, about 100 km north lies Pergamum (Pergamon), a separate archaeological site known for the famous Acropolis, one of the top tourist destinations in the region.
Acropolis of
Pergamum
A well-preserved ancient site completed in the 5th century BC, the Acropolis is
perched atop a steep hill in Bergama. It is an important archaeological site,
reflecting Turkey’s ancient era of power and culture.
There is a long
list of things to see in the Acropolis, including the Hellenistic Theater,
Trajaneum, Atheneum, Sanctuary of Athena, Royal Palaces, Temple of Demeter,
House of Attalus, Lower Agora, and Gate of Eumenes. It can easily take at least
two hours to walk around the Acropolis. A cable car ride to the hilltop gives a
clear view of Bergama.
Attractions in
Selçuk, Turkey
House of the
Virgin Mary
Perched atop Bulbul Mountain near Kuşadası, the House of the Virgin Mary is
recognized by the Vatican as the place where Mary spent her final days. This
site was identified from the visions of the nun Anna Katharina Emmerich, who
described Mary’s journey to Ephesus with Saint John to spread Christianity.
The house
contains the main rooms, including the kitchen and living area, believed to be
where Mary lived. Several altars allow homage and prayer, and the area includes
a holy well, known for its healing properties. Written messages are often
pinned to the board, a tradition followed for centuries.
The House of the Virgin Mary is both historically important and a place for quiet reflection. Pilgrims from around the world come to pay respect. The stone walls and simple architecture reflect the style of that time, while the paths around the house lead to views of the surrounding countryside.
Attractions in
Ephesus, Turkey
Temple of
Artemis
Standing quietly in the wetlands near Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis hints at a
time when it was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Though only the
marble foundations and scattered columns remain today, the site speaks of
grandeur and ambition.
Built in the
6th century BC, the temple was dedicated to Artemis, a goddess associated with
protection, hunting, and fertility. Visiting the ruins gives a sense of the
scale and importance the temple once held.
Temple of
Hadrian
A short walk along Curetes Street leads to the Temple of Hadrian, constructed
in 128 A.D. to honor the Roman Emperor Hadrian. The temple’s carved arch and
tall Corinthian columns capture the artistic skill of the period, while the
Medusa head above the entrance reflects beliefs in protection and warding off
evil.
Even today, the
structure draws attention for its design and detail, showcasing Ephesus as a
city that combined devotion, wealth, and craftsmanship.
Attractions in
Pamukkale, Turkey
Pamukkale Thermal Pools
Heading to
Pamukkale means seeing its famous thermal pools. These natural mineral waters
flow over white terraces, creating a striking landscape. The hot spring water
cools to a warm, comfortable temperature as it fills the pools and is believed
to have healing effects for the skin, eyes, and conditions like asthma and
rheumatism.
Pamukkale, along with the ancient city of Hierapolis, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Hierapolis-Pamukkale. The thermal pools allow for relaxing in the warm water, dipping feet, or walking through the flowing water to feel its minerals. Cleopatra’s Pool, also called the ancient thermal pool, is a special spot where swimming among sunken Roman columns creates a unique connection.
The
warm water here is soothing and beneficial, making the thermal pools the main
highlight in Pamukkale.