Places to visit for summer vacation in Turkey

July and August are usually set as the summer vacation period. For those who are thinking about place to visit for summer vacation every year, I would like to introduce three summer vacation destinations in Turkey, a country between Europe and Asia. Places that are not yet known, so visit quickly.

Turkey

There is a saying among travelers. The end of the trip is in Turkey. Why do so many people want to travel to Turkey?

These are the reasons why people love to travel to Turkey. The country's rich history, natural beauty, warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, unique shopping experience, affordable travel, and diverse activities make it an attractive destination for travelers from all around the world.

Even if I think about it for a moment, there are too many reasons. People usually go on long vacations in summer and winter. I prepared for those who find places to visit for summer vacation in Turkey in this post.

1. Büyükada island

If you're looking for a place with no noise, the Büyükada Island is the perfect destination. It takes 1 hour by ferry from Istanbul to the island. Büyükada Island which is not accessible by car has the perfect conditions to enjoy the pristine nature itself.

Büyükada Island is famous for its beautiful natural landscapes, turquoise sea and sandy beaches, as well as ancient ruins. There are many beaches on the island where you can enjoy swimming and water sports. In addition, the island's natural park offers outdoor activities such as trekking and cycling.

Büyükada Island also has historical ruins such as the Roman Square, Roman Church, and Roman Fortress from the Roman era. Travelers can have the opportunity to experience local culture and traditions.

Büyükada Island has a better climate than Istanbul, with temperatures ranging between 20 and 28 degrees in summer. The temperature of the sea water rises by more than 20 degrees from June to November, so it is perfect for enjoying water activities.

If you're looking for activities to help your child's imagination, don't miss the Sea life Aquarium. You can meet various marine animals such as green sea turtles and tiger sharks in 29 aquariums at the aquarium located in Istanbul. A 4D cinema and Legoland, where children can express their imaginations, are located right next aquarium to satisfy their curiosity.

2. Ölüdeniz and Marmaris

Ölüdeniz, which is called 'the bluest sea in the world', is a vacation area representing the Mediterranean. It is also famous as a place where the ancient Egyptian queen Cleopatra often visited to enjoy a hot spring bath with a mud bath.

It is a popular place for various water sports. Especially, the paragliding is most famous. Additionally, near Ölüdeniz, there is the ancient shipwreck site of Belcekız Beach, where diving and snorkeling can be enjoyed.

Marmaris is a popular resort town located on the Marmaris Peninsula of the Aegean Sea. It is known for its beautiful beaches, natural landscapes, and rich historical sites. 

Marmaris is famous for its harbor city, offering various water-based tourism activities such as cruise trips and yacht tours. The old town of Marmaris is known for its traditional architecture and culture, with numerous shops, restaurants, bars, and clubs providing a wide range of entertainment options. Near Marmaris, you can also visit the beautiful beaches of Datça, which is a national natural park.

Ölüdeniz and Marmaris are popular beach cities in Turkey where you can enjoy a variety of marine activities and tourist attractions.

3. Antalya

Antalya is a major city located in the southern region of Turkey, known as a popular tourist destination along the Mediterranean coastline.

If you're planning a travel with young children, Antalya, called the 'Resort of the Gods', is also a good option. Antalya is selected as the cleanest resort in the world and have clear weather for more than 300 days a year.

Antalya also offers attractive beaches and resorts, making it a popular destination for water sports and beach tourism. For example, "Konyaalti" and "Lara" are famous beach areas in Antalya where you can enjoy relaxation and water sports. Additionally, Antalya is known for its shopping opportunities, with a wide range of local specialties and consumer goods available.

You can experience the ruins of the Roman era and the architectural style of the Ottoman era. it is a good place to enjoy both recreation and sightseeing. Five-star hotels with all-inclusive services are lined along the beach, providing a convenient break for travelers with children.

To warp up

As it is located between Europe and Asia, many travelers visit Turkey for their summer vacation because they can experience various cultures and marine sports.

A simple sight seeing is also good, but wouldn't it be a perfect vacation if you visit on a summer vacation and spend time slowly looking at the Mediterranean Sea?

Istanbul itinerary 3 days

Korean travelers say that the end of Europe tour is Turkey. Turkey is far from Korea, but it is one of the travel destinations that many people visit. Because many travelers doesn't have enough time to visit all of Turkey, there are many travelers who have only 3 to 4 days in Istanbul. As the capital of Turkey, there are many things to see and eat, so if you do not properly prepare your itinerary, you may be left with regret. please! Follow the Istanbul 3-day itinerary.

Istalbul itinerary 3days

I will briefly summarize the 3-day itinerary in Istanbul.

Day 1 - Explore the history of Turkey in the Old Town.

Day 2 - View the Bosporus Strait, the border between Europe and Asia, and have dinner in the new town

Day 3 - Asia district and Bebek , the hottest street for locals

Day 1 - Old town

The old town of Istanbul is a place where you can see its history at once. It is a place where all the important historical places that come to mind when you think of Istanbul are gathered. Starting with Sultan Ahmet Square, we will start with key attractions such as Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Sarayi.

If you visit in the order listed below, you can finish your schedule from about 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, find a restaurant with a panoramic view of the old town, and have dinner. Most of the distances can be reached on foot, and if it is difficult, use public transportation or a taxi.

Sultanahmet Square

Sultan Ahmet Square is the most important space in the Old City. It serves as a shelter for travelers and a passageway connecting other landmarks. Thanks to this geographical advantage, there are many cafes and restaurants around, and cultural events and performances are also held. A lot of tourists visit, and it's fun to see people from all over the world.

Sultan Ahmet Camii (Blue Mosque)

It is located in Sultan Ahmet Square. Commonly known as the Blue Mosque, it is the most famous place in Istanbul. Many Muslims who pray come to visit, and tourists also visit to see its beauty and history. Visitors are required to take off their shoes and cover their shoulders and legs, etc.

Hagia Sophia

Considered a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. When it was first built, it was built as a cathedral, but after the Ottoman Empire conquered the area, it was converted into a mosque. Thanks to this historical fact, you can feel like a mixture of Catholic and Muslim cultures.

Topkapı Sarayı

It was used as a palace where the sultans who ruled the region for 400 years lived. It is currently used as a museum that you can see the lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans. The building itself is important, but it is also a good place to see the jewelry, pottery, and other relics inside. It also has a beautiful view overlooking the Bosporus Strait, so you can take great pictures, so make sure to visit it.

Yerebatan Underground Palace

It is the largest reservoir in Istanbul. Constructed in the 6th century, this place was built to collect and store rainwater to supply stable water. It is also known as a filming location for movies. The most famous one is the Medusa head carved pillar, which has a different shape for each pillar, so many travelers are coming to see this.

Grand Bazaar

It is the oldest and largest market in Istanbul. It is a place where travelers can buy various souvenirs when they visit and see the various cultures of Turkey.

Day 2 - Bosporus Strait and New Town

You can travel around the Bosporus Strait, the border between Europe and Asia, and the surrounding attractions. When moving across the strait, be sure to take the ferry, which has become a public transportation in Istanbul.

Yeni Camii

It is a place known as the New Mosque. It is close to the old town and is located near the waterfront. because It has been under construction for the longest time among the mosques in Istanbul, various architectural styles have been applied. It is not just a place of worship, but is in such a good location that it is used as a place for locals and tourists to gather.

Egyptian Bazaar

This bazaar right next to the New Mosque is smaller than the Grand Bazaar you heard on Day 1, but many people come and go because it is in a good location.

Eminonu Port

It is a marina for ferries and cruise ships that travel through the Bosporus Strait. Since it is right in front of Yeni camii, it is a must-use public transportation on the Day 2 schedule. There is also a small plaza right in front, where you can have a snack or drink and spend time looking at the sea.

Dolmabahce Palace

The building was built with the motif of the Palace of Versailles in France. It was used as the residence of the sultans. Because of the mix of different architectural styles, it is a place with an impressive exterior and beautiful gardens. Like a palace, the furniture inside is also luxuriously decorated. The palace seems to be floating on water and becomes a photo spot for many travelers.

Taksim Square

Taksim Square is considered to be the center of the new town. Since it is connected to the istkral street, the largest downtown area in Istanbul, it is a place you must visit while traveling. If you can only spend one day in Istanbul, it would be nice to start at the Taksim Square.

Galata Tower

It is an observatory where you can see the new and old towns at once. Currently, the Galata Tower Restaurant is located, where you can enjoy a wonderful night view and meal.

Day 3 - Asia District and Bebek

You already visited both the new and old towns of Istanbul. If the previous two areas were places for tourists, Day 3's Asian and Bebek districts are places that locals visit a lot.

Büyükada

It is the largest of the Princess Islands. Personally, the biggest advantage of this place is the quiet atmosphere. When you arrive here, you feel like escaping the hustle and bustle of Istanbul. You can't use a car, and you can rent a bicycle or carriage to move around. There are churches and museums, so it's a good place to go around.

Bağdat Street

It is the busiest street in Asia district. Shopping malls and department stores are located here, making it a popular shopping street for locals and travelers. There are many entertainment venues such as bars and clubs along the street, so it is also a place where you can have a good time after sunset.

Kadıköy

It is a port city serving as a transportation hub for the Asian district along the Bophorus Strait. As people from Asia and Europe gather, there are many restaurants and shops.

Istanbul Maiden's Tower

It is a small island located at the southern entrance to the Bophorus Strait. It is known that it was used as a tower for defense, and has been used for various purposes for a long time. It is now famous as a place to watch the sunset thanks to its panoramic view.

Starbucks Bebek

Many travelers visit here after Nusret, one of Istanbul's most famous restaurant. people like this place because of the view overlooking the sea.

To the wrap up

Istanbul is a large city and a place where Asian and European cultures coexist, so it is an unfortunate place to visit for a short time. However, as explained earlier, there are many travelers who stop by the places they pass by, so you can see a lot only by referring to a well-planned itinerary.