Why Turkey is such a special and beautiful country
Let’s begin.

Imagine a country. It straddles two vast continents: Asia on one side, Europe on the other.
This country is a true mosaic of cultures, with its natural beauty, history, cultural heritage, ethnic origins, and people from diverse backgrounds.
Turkey is an addictive country with its beautiful cities, home to diverse civilizations.
Turkey is a country where different languages are spoken and different faiths are practiced without any restrictions.
Now, we’ll tell you about some of the more unique aspects of Türkiye you’ve heard about in the news.

Why Turkey is such a special and beautiful country
Let’s begin.

A transcontinental country connecting Europe and Asia, Turkey is one of the world’s most captivating destinations. Home to over 85 million people, the country stands out with its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, diverse cuisine, and vibrant cities. From the vibrant streets of Istanbul and Izmir to the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, from pristine Mediterranean beaches to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, Turkey offers experiences for every type of traveler.

This comprehensive guide covers Türkiye’s geography, tourist attractions, cuisine, cultural richness, beaches, sunset spots, historical cities, and practical transportation details, including fares and tariffs for 2025.

Türkiye’s Geography and Strategic Location

Türkiye’s geography makes it one of the world’s most strategically important countries. Located at the intersection of Europe and Asia, Turkey shares borders with eight countries: Greece, Bulgaria, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, and Syria. It borders the Aegean Sea to the west, the Mediterranean Sea to the south, and the Black Sea to the north. The Bosphorus, the Sea of Marmara, and the Dardanelles connect the Black Sea to the Mediterranean, making Türkiye a critical hub for global trade. Its diverse topography includes fertile plains, high mountain ranges such as the Taurus and Pontus Mountains, semi-arid plateaus in Central Anatolia, and volcanic landscapes in Cappadocia.

tourism Regions of Türkiye

Marmara Region – The Gateway of Civilizations

Home to Istanbul, the cultural and financial heart of Türkiye. Highlights include Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. Bursa offers Ottoman heritage and Uludağ ski resort, while Edirne showcases imperial mosques and the famous Oil Wrestling Festival.

Aegean Region – Ancient History Meets the Aegean Sea

Famous for Ephesus, Pergamum, and Aphrodisias, the Aegean coast blends history with seaside leisure. Izmir, Bodrum, Kuşadası, and Çeşme offer vibrant nightlife, sandy beaches, and luxury resorts.

Mediterranean Region – The Turkish Riviera

Known as the Turquoise Coast, this region includes Antalya, Alanya, and Kaş. With golden beaches, yacht marinas, and Lycian ruins like Olympos and Patara, the Mediterranean is Türkiye’s tourism capital.

Central Anatolia – Cappadocia and the Spirit of Rumi

A land of fairy chimneys, underground cities, and hot-air balloons. Konya, the city of Mevlana Rumi, is a spiritual destination, while Ankara, the capital, represents modern Türkiye’s political and cultural hub.

Black Sea Region – Nature’s Hidden Paradise

Known for its tea fields in Rize, hazelnut farms, and lush mountains. Trabzon is home to the Sümela Monastery, while Amasra, Ordu, and Sinop attract visitors with their hidden beaches and traditional cuisine.

Eastern Anatolia – Mountains and Untamed Beauty

This rugged region is home to Mount Ararat, Lake Van, and Ani Ruins. It is less touristic, making it a perfect choice for adventurous travelers.

Southeastern Anatolia – Cradle of Mesopotamia

Rich in history and flavors, this region features Gaziantep’s baklava and kebabs, Mardin’s stone architecture, and Şanlıurfa’s spiritual heritage, believed to be the birthplace of Prophet Abraham.

Best Beaches in Turkey

Türkiye boasts some of the world’s most stunning beaches:

• Ölüdeniz (Fethiye): Famous Blue Lagoon and paragliding spot.

• Patara Beach: One of the longest sandy beaches in the Mediterranean.

• Kaputaş Beach (Kaş): A hidden bay surrounded by cliffs.

• Cleopatra Beach (Alanya): Crystal waters and golden sand.

• Iztuzu Beach (Dalyan): Nesting ground for loggerhead turtles.

• Altinkum (Didim): Family-friendly and lively atmosphere.

• Butterfly Valley: Accessible only by boat, offering untouched nature.

Best Sunset Spots in Türkiye

Unforgettable sunset experiences include:

• Cappadocia: Balloons rising and setting over fairy chimneys.

• Pamukkale: Travertine terraces glowing at dusk.

• Istanbul: Bosphorus sunset with Hagia Sophia silhouette.

• Bodrum Castle: Romantic Aegean views.

• Mount Tahtalı (Antalya): Panoramic mountain-top sunset.

• Lake Van: Golden reflections over Eastern Anatolia.

• Çanakkale: Sunset above the Dardanelles.

Turkish Cuisine: A Gastronomic Journey

Turkish food is a cultural journey shaped by centuries of tradition.

• Istanbul: Street food (simit, döner, fish sandwiches) and Ottoman delicacies.

• Gaziantep: UNESCO culinary city, famous for baklava, kebabs, pistachios.

• Hatay: Künefe, hummus, and Levantine flavors.

• Black Sea: Anchovy dishes, kuymak, and cornbread.

• Central Anatolia: Mantı, testi kebab.

• Aegean: Olive oil mezes, herbs, seafood.

• Southeast: Lahmacun, içli köfte, katmer desserts.

Famous Dishes by City:

• Adana Kebab (Adana)

• İskender Kebab (Bursa)

• Çiğ Köfte (Şanlıurfa)

• Pide (Trabzon)

• Kokoreç (Izmir)

• Midye Dolma (Istanbul)

Historical Cities and Heritage Sites

Türkiye is an open-air museum of civilizations:

• Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar.

• Ephesus: Library of Celsus, Temple of Artemis.

• Troy: Legendary city of Homer’s Iliad.

• Cappadocia: Cave churches and underground cities.

• Konya: City of Rumi and Whirling Dervishes.

• Mardin: Mesopotamian stone architecture.

• Ani (Kars): Ancient Armenian capital.

• Pergamon: Hellenistic ruins and acropolis.

Türkiye’s Major Cities (2025) and Transportation

Türkiye’s major cities are not only cultural and historical centers but also central to modern transportation. Below, you can find an overview of the leading cities in 2025, their unique characteristics, and detailed information on how to travel both within and between cities.

Istanbul

Stranding the continents of Europe and Asia, Istanbul is Türkiye’s largest and most dynamic city. It has two major airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side. The city’s transportation system includes a diverse network of metro lines, trams, buses, funiculars, ferries, and Marmaray.
Public transportation is integrated with the Istanbulkart system, which costs 130 ₺ for a standard card. One-way travel on the metro or tram is 27 ₺, while ferry fares are around 38-45 ₺. Marmaray fares range from ₺27 to ₺59.76, depending on distance. The funicular fare is ₺17.70. Airport express buses (Havabus) cost approximately ₺275-300, depending on the route.

The metro generally operates from 6:00 AM to midnight, and every 3-4 minutes during rush hour. The ferries, operated by Şehir Hatları (City Lines), are a must-try mode of transportation, offering stunning views of the Bosphorus.

Ankara

Ankara, the capital of Türkiye, is the heart of politics and government. It is home to Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, a national symbol. Transportation-wise, Ankara is directly connected to Istanbul, Konya, and Sivas via high-speed train (YHT), making it a central hub for intercity travel. Intercity bus services to all parts of Türkiye also operate from the Ankara AŞTİ terminal.

Izmir

Izmir is a coastal Aegean city known for its vibrant coastline and modern lifestyle. Its transportation system includes metro lines and an efficient ferry network, facilitating daily commutes.

Antalya

Antalya is Türkiye’s tourism capital, renowned for its beaches, resorts, and historical ruins. It is a major destination for international flights and cruise ships, serving as a gateway to the Turkish Riviera.

Bursa

A city of Ottoman heritage known for its silk trade, architecture, and Uludağ ski resort, Bursa’s blend of culture and nature makes it a popular destination for both history buffs and winter sports enthusiasts.

Gaziantep

Gaziantep is Türkiye’s culinary capital, renowned for its cuisine, especially baklava.

Konya

Known for its whirling dervishes and Sufi traditions, Konya, one of Türkiye’s most spiritual cities, is well integrated into the high-speed rail network, offering fast connections to Ankara and Istanbul. Konya also has a tram system, which is currently being expanded with a metro project.

Transportation in Türkiye (2025)

High-Speed ​​Trains (YHT)

High-speed trains operated by TCDD Transportation connect Istanbul, Ankara, Konya, Eskişehir, and Sivas. Travel time on the Ankara-Istanbul line is approximately 4-4.5 hours, with ticket prices starting at 780 TL. The Ankara-Konya line takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from 360 TL to 800 TL. Konya-Istanbul trains take approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes, and ticket prices start from 51 TL.
Future developments include the Istanbul-Kapıkule line, which is expected to connect Istanbul to the Bulgarian border by 2028.

City Travel Cards

Smart cards such as the Istanbulkart, AnkaraKart, and IzmirKart simplify city travel. In Istanbul, you can top up your Istanbulkart with up to 2,750 ₺ and it’s valid on almost all public transportation. A single metro ride costs 27 ₺, while ferries cost around 38-45 ₺.

Transportation Details:

• Flights: $40–$120 domestic fares.

• Intercity Buses: $10–$30, widely used.

• High-Speed Trains: $15–$40 connecting key cities.

• Urban Cards: IstanbulCard, AnkaraKart, IzmirKart ($0.50–$1 per ride).

• Ferries: Essential in Istanbul, Izmir, Marmara Sea routes.

Conclusion & Travel Tips

Türkiye is not just a travel destination—it’s a living journey through civilizations, landscapes, and gastronomy. From historic Istanbul to the beaches of A

Tips for Travelers:

• Book accommodation in advance during summer.

• Try both street food and traditional restaurants.

• Carry some cash in rural areas.

• Learn a few Turkish phrases to connect with locals.

With its mix of history, culture, and modern life, Turkey stands out as one of the best destinations in 2025 and beyond.