Discovering Turkey
Turkey is a breathtaking country, steeped in history and culture. I traveled there for a month in May 2023. From its rich historical sites to its tasty cuisine, this country is full of wonders to discover. In this article, I take you to Istanbul, Izmir, Cesme, Ankara and Cappadocia, with a particular focus on the Göreme region.
Visit the Wonderful Istanbul
Istanbul, the gateway between two worlds, is a cosmopolitan city where East meets West. It is home to treasures such as the magnificent Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace and the Galata Tower. Put on your sneakers and explore the bustling alleys of the different districts on either side of the Bosphorus and soak up the different atmospheres. The famous Grand Bazaar is a unique experience. There, you will find artisanal creations and delicious Turkish delights. Istanbul is a wonder you should experience at least once in your life!
Continuing our journey, we arrive in Izmir, a coastal city located on the Aegean Sea. Izmir is known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful beaches. Don't miss visiting the historic district of Kemeralti, where you can find lively street markets and authentic shops.
Explore the Enchanting Cesme & Chios Island
A few kilometers from Izmir, Cesme is a gem of the Aegean coast. This seaside town is renowned for its authentic historic center which is still preserved from mass tourism. The castle overlooks the town and the harbor. By boat, this port connects with Greece, and more specifically with the island of Chios (a 1-hour boat trip); I highly recommend this discovery. The island is full of picturesque small villages that are well worth the visit. It is a very inexpensive island and still very rarely visited.
Enjoy Ankara: The capital and its cultural treasures
Heading inland, we arrive in Ankara, the capital of Turkey. In addition to its important political role, the city also has remarkable cultural sites, such as the Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Atatürk, which offers a panoramic view of the city. For museum lovers, I advise you to discover the richness of Turkish history at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. 1 to 2 days are enough to visit Ankara as the city is not particularly charming. The facades of its buildings are quite dark, which unfortunately makes the city rather gloomy.
The most beautiful region of Turkey: Cappadocia
Finally, in my opinion, the most beautiful region of Turkey is indeed Cappadocia, a spectacular region known for its strange rock formations (sometimes referred to as Love Valley) which offer a magnificent sight. Göreme is the "capital" of Cappadocia, where you can admire the famous fairy chimneys and cave dwellings carved into the rocks. An unforgettable experience is taking a hot air balloon flight at sunrise to gaze at the beauty of Cappadocia from the sky. It is breathtaking. Prices can vary greatly, so it is recommended to book in advance and definitely not wait until the last minute. I could share with you the provider to choose to ensure you have the best possible experience.
Turkey, an unforgettable adventure
In Turkey, there is so much to see and do that every stop is a new adventure. From the historical wonders of Istanbul to the idyllic beaches of Izmir and Cesme, to the mesmerizing beauty of Cappadocia, Turkey promises you an unforgettable experience. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover or a food enthusiast, Turkey has everything to win you over. All that's left for you to do is explore this unique destination and let yourself be enchanted by its magic.
So, are you also tempted by a trip to Turkey?
