Turkey is a country with enormous cultural traditions, diversity, food, science, and exports. It is a diverse country that deserves praise and recognition. Of course, the best way to learn and experience Turkey is to visit the country for yourself. Tourists will discover this is a nation that welcomes everyone, hence the reputation of Turkish hospitality. Here are top things for which Turkey is famous for:
Istanbul
Turkey is visited by tourists from all over because of Istanbul. It is the home of famous structures known all around the world, such as Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Dolmabahce Palace, Taksim Square, Galata Tower, Spice Bazaar, and Galata Bridge. Many people mistake Istanbul as the capital of Turkey, thanks to its importance. Istanbul is a fusion of Europe and Asia. It’s surrounded by the Sea of Marmara, Golden Horn, and Bosphorus Strait. It’s Europe’s largest city, among the largest and oldest in the world.
Cappuccino-Things for Which Turkey is Famous
Cappadocia in Turkey is known for its incredible rock formations and topography. These “fairy chimneys” make Cappadocia rank among Turkey’s most visited places and it’s the best place in the world to experience the hot air balloon ride. Cappadocia includes the Goreme open-air museum, is a member of the UNESCO World Heritage site, and ancient churches from the 14th and 15th centuries. Also, it’s fun exploring the underground cities.
The region is unique because many artists, photographers, and film directors find the place inspirational. You can also do other cool things such as stay in a cave hotel, explore the terrain on horseback or go quad biking.
Hagia Sophia-Things for Which Turkey is Famous
This enchanting unique structure was managed by many Christian denominations over the years according to leadership change of the region. In 1453, Hagia Sophia was proclaimed as a mosque by Sultan Mehmet II, once the Ottomans took over the city of Constantinople. After the country transitioned to a republic, Hagia Sophia was turned into a museum and has remained so for 86 years. For tourists, Hagia Sophia is open to visitors during prayer times and is free for everyone. The Hagia Sophia is a famous cultural, religious and political symbol of Turkey, and has been for centuries. It is among the most unparalleled and unique structures in the world.
Turkish Tea
Served in tulip-like shaped glasses, which allows you to enjoy drinking tea hot as well as displaying its crimson colour. Usually, these glasses are held by the rim to save the fingertips from getting scorched, as it’s served boiling hot. Traditionally, the tea is served along with small beet sugar cubes. Sweet and savoury biscuits known as kurabiye are usually served along with tea during teatime. Tea is a vital part of the culture and is a common hot drink consumed in the country.
Pamukkale-Things for Which Turkey is Famous
A famous destination in Turkey is the white travertine pools called Pamukkale. This amazing location, famous in Greek and Roman history, is a holiday craze among foreigners and locals as well. These beautiful hot spring pools are naturally crafted which makes it a dream-like experience. They are formed when solidified calcium water falls down the hillside. It’s Turkey’s famous landmark packed with natural beauty. Also, you can explore the Hierapolis Museum’s ancient artifacts before you take a dip in the ancient thermal pool.
Kebabs
Kebabs refer to any vegetable, fish, or meat dish prepared by roasting or grilling it. Nowadays, kebabs are eaten all around the world but they originate from Turkey. Once you are in Turkey, you’ll realize there are many kebab places and different kinds are available. From the traditional to spicy ones, vegan options are available as well. You must try this specialty in Turkey.
Baklava-Things for Which Turkey is Famous
It is a snack or dessert made up of pastry, syrup, and nuts, dating back to the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. Some argue that it goes back even further, before the Ottoman period. It’s loved by all from the East and the West. It’s still part of the famous and well-established tradition in Turkey and the Middle East, North Africa included.
Ephesus
When you visit Turkey, visit Ephesus ruins in Selcuk. This archaeological site was once one of the most prominent cities in the world. A stroll through the ancient ruins reveals restored landmarks, Roman terrace houses, statues, Celsius library, Agora, temples, and the gladiator theatre. A tourist can also explore surrounding attractions, the Temple of Artemis, among the Seven Wonders of the World, and the house of the Virgin Mary.
Turkish Carpets-Things for Which Turkey is Famous
Turkey is known for producing high-quality carpets in the world and every carpet and rug represents the history and culture of the country. You’ll find carpets of different sizes and prices, some affordable and woven specifically for tourists. Few others are expensive since they’ve been passed down from different generations. Some of the best carpets have royal roots.
Turkish Baths
When you travel to Turkey, take time to experience the traditional Turkish bath. The time-honoured tradition began with the Romans – the Ottomans adapted to make it suit their lifestyle culturally. A walk around Topkapi Palace in Istanbul shows all the private baths that were used by the sultans. Otherwise, the city centre has baths dating from 500 years back that still keep their doors open to the public. The process begins with steaming, which opens the pores, then a soap suds massage is the ultimate relaxation, de-stresser, and skin cleaner. Turks love a good bath the old-fashioned way.
Lycian Way-Things for Which Turkey is Famous
The Lycian Civilization ruled a large part of Southern Turkey. They deserted many ruined cities and monuments that are major archaeological sites now. Historians pay attention to the Lycian tombs which appear in Fethiye, Simena, Myra, and Tlos. Built on hillsides for royalty, the Lycians believed wing creatures found it easy to take them to the afterlife. Therefore, they aren’t famous among tourists but a time-honoured part of history. The coastline stretches which is covered is the Lycian Way, a famous trekking route in the world.
Traditional Gulet Boat
This stretch of the coastline, from the west to south, sometimes called Turkish Riviera or Turquoise Coast, is a delight for sailors. Traditionally, Turks sailed around in a gulet boat, but today, significant marinas host international millionaire yachts. Few people attend day tours on the harbour boats. Others prefer blue cruises to enjoy destinations like Antalya, Marmaris, Bodrum, Kalkan, Aegean Sea, Kusadasi and Fethiye.
Discover Turkey with Turkey Visa
Tourists who want to visit Turkey must submit a visa application or apply for an e-Visa travel authorization. To get a visa for Turkey, tourists are required to head to the embassy or consulate. To apply for a Turkey e-visa, visitors can complete an online form which takes only a few minutes. The e-Visa to Turkey is for tourism, transit, or business purposes. Depending on the country of citizenship, the holder of the e-Visa for Turkey can stay for 30-90 days.
Turkey is an influential and huge country, politically, economically, and culturally blessed. It’s rich in history, natural beauty, culture, and natural resources. With all of these combined, you’ll have the perfect holiday destination you need. Turkey has so many things to offer and the country is famous for lots of things, but there are still many things the world has to discover in Turkey. You should visit and see Turkey for yourself.
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