With its modern cities and ancient sites, azure beaches and snow-capped mountains, Turkey has everything: a rich history and numerous sights to explore, as well as beaches and fancy resorts. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or a productive excursion-filled trip, our list of the top 10 places to visit in Turkey would certainly have some sights you can’t miss out on. 

Istanbul — a metropolis where centuries of history mix with the vitality and bustle of a contemporary city. Ranging across both Europe and Asia, lovely buildings, cathedrals, and mosques flank the Bosphorus Strait. 

Must-see sights include the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, sitting just steps apart. Both offer an unforgettable view inside and out, filled with stories collected over centuries. The Grand Bazaar is another must-see: an enormous market filled with spices, lamps, and all types of handmade goods. Even if you aren’t looking to buy anything, it is certainly worth a trip. 

The Kadıköy part of the Asian side will show you the local flavor of street art, bookstores, and cafés. Drawing you in with the aroma of grilled fish sandwiches, the Galata Bridge reveals a breathtaking view of the sunset over the water. A boat trip to observe the city lights along the shore would provide a beautiful end to the day.

Cappadocia’s landscape is decorated with rock formations called fairy chimneys. They’re best observed from above, and a morning hot air balloon trip is the perfect way to do that.

Once your feet hit the ground, explore the Göreme Open Air Museum to see old churches carved into the rocks and decorated with wall paintings. Entire cities, such as Kaymaklı, run deep underground. Make sure to stay in a cave hotel, with rooms built into stone. 

Pamukkale is made of white terraces created by mineral-rich hot springs. The terraces form little warm pools of spring water where you may stroll barefoot or take a quick dip (just mind all the people around). With the white cliffs sparkling gold and pink, the sunset view is amazing. 

A one-of-a-kind experience in Pamukkale, Hierapolis, lets you stroll around antique stone alleys, see a large theatre, and explore a vast necropolis abundant with ancient tombs. Sounds eerie, but it’s definitely worth seeing. 

Furthermore, the Cleopatra Pool is an incredible swim in warm, bubbly water among marble columns. Waterproof phones or cameras are definitely a must at this location because you’ll want to save these views for a long time. Many of the hotels around provide access to thermal spas to promote healing and wellness.

One of the best-preserved ancient cities, Ephesus, was once a bustling Roman city and a major port along the Aegean Sea. The main entrance, Curetes Street, is a gorgeous stone road used by chariots centuries ago, with markings still visible.

Once home to thousands of scrolls, the two-story structure known as the Library of Celsus is spectacular. Just down the block, the Great Theater still hosts many concerts and events with a maximum capacity of 25,000. 

From museums and beaches to wildlife and amusement parks, Antalya offers a little bit of everything. The city is known for its practically year-round wonderful weather and sunlight, making it a great destination no matter the season. 

Antalya has waterfalls galore, including the lower Düden Waterfalls, the Düden Waterfalls, and the Kurşunlu Waterfall, among many more. Children will enjoy the Antalya Aquarium, one of Europe's largest. Just a short drive away are ancient ruins to explore, such as Perge, Aspendos, and Termessos. 

Two of the most fun things about vacations — lounging in the sun and splashing in the sea — are the best Bodrum has to offer. Its beautiful beaches and lovely white houses, all of which line the Aegean Sea shoreline, make it a favorite spot for both families and solo travelers. 

Gümbet, Bitez, and Camel's beaches provide nice sand, lovely water, and a great variety of activities. The marina is great for travelers who like art, seafood, and trendy stores. 

Mount Ararat is one of the best places to visit in Turkey for adventure lovers. At 5,137 meters, it's the highest point in the country. The mountain is in the eastern part of the area near Doğubeyazıt. 

Most climbs take five days and can be quite intense, which is why it's wise to get travel insurance before you depart. For resting, there are several overnight stops at camps between 3,200 and 4,200 meters. The last climb starts before dawn, and as the sun rises over Armenia and Iran, hikers are rewarded with stunning views. 

If you like the sea, wildlife, and sunshine, Fethiye is the right choice for you. This laid-back Turquoise Coast town has a lovely shoreline, a busy marina, and local markets selling anything from handmade goods to fresh fruit. 

A short drive will take you to Ölüdeniz, famous for its blue lagoon, where families may swim in calm, shallow water. To make the most of the trip, we recommend renting a pedal boat to admire nature and watch paragliders on the Babadağ Mountain. 

Fethiye boat cruises can take you to the Twelve Islands for swimming and snorkeling. Or, if you prefer exploring on foot, the beautiful Lycian Way is a 760 km footpath going all the way through the region.

A little beach town on Turkey's Mediterranean coast, Kaş is perfect for those who desire a mix of peace and thrill, with what some call a “European flavor.” Tucked between the mountains and the sea, this location always provides magnificent views. 

You can walk along the beach in the morning, plan a boating trip to many other remote beaches, and make a stop at lovely flower-covered cafés. Later, kayak over the underwater remnants of the ancient city of Simena on Kekova Island.

High on a cliff in Altındere Valley National Park, Sumela Monastery has one of the most stunning views in Turkey. Built in the fourth century, it seems like something out of a fairytale and looks out over dense pine woods. A little stroll through the woods will lead you there, enhancing the whole experience. 

When you arrive, you may explore a spring locals hold sacred, little churches, and ancient stone structures. While you're in the neighborhood, it's worth seeing out the neighboring city of Trabzon, renowned for its tea farms, Black Sea traditions, and the tranquil Uzungöl Lake.

Qatar citizens don’t have to apply for a Turkey visa from Qatar for stays of up to 90 days, which makes visiting this country much easier! On the other hand, Qatar residents without citizenship may need a visa, depending on their nationality. In most cases, they’ll be able to apply for a Turkey e-visa via the official portal.

The steps are pretty simple: you insert your info, upload your travel itinerary and accommodation information, pay the fee, and download the e-visa. Visa fee for Turkey ranges from QAR 70 to QAR 330. 

There are multiple direct flights a day from Doha to Istanbul’s two airports — Sabiha Gökçen Airport and Istanbul Airport. The most popular airlines for this route are Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Pegasus Airlines. 

Furthermore, while you’re not legally required to have it, it’s recommended that you purchase travel insurance for Turkey. It protects you from the unnecessary costs of medical emergencies, trip delays, and baggage or document loss.