1. Göreme National Park and Cappadocia – Nevşehir Province

• A surreal landscape of fairy chimneys, rock-hewn churches, and underground cities.
• Best for: Hot air ballooning, hiking, and historical exploration.
• Tip: Stay in a cave hotel for a unique experience.

2. Ephesus – İzmir Province

• One of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world, featuring the Library of Celsus and the Temple of Artemis.
• Best for: History lovers and archaeology enthusiasts.
• Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.

3. Pamukkale-Hierapolis – Denizli Province

• Famous for its white travertine terraces and ancient thermal city of Hierapolis.
• Best for: Relaxation, photography, and historical exploration.
• Tip: Bring swimwear to enjoy the thermal pools of Cleopatra’s Pool.

4. Mount Nemrut – Adıyaman Province

• Home to giant stone heads of ancient gods, built by King Antiochus I.
• Best for: Sunrise and sunset photography.
• Tip: Wear warm clothes as temperatures drop even in summer.

5. Troy – Çanakkale Province

• The legendary city of the Trojan War, known from Homer’s “Iliad”.
• Best for: History buffs and literature enthusiasts.
• Tip: Visit the Troy Museum for more insights into the city’s history.

6. Safranbolu – Karabük Province

• A charming Ottoman town with well-preserved houses, narrow streets, and local crafts.
• Best for: Cultural tourism and photography.
• Tip: Stay in a traditional Ottoman-style mansion.

7. Pergamon – İzmir Province

• An ancient Greek and Roman city, home to the steepest theater of the ancient world.
• Best for: History lovers and ancient architecture fans.
• Tip: Take the cable car to reach the top of the acropolis.

8. Xanthos-Letoon – Antalya & Muğla Provinces

• A Lycian archaeological site, known for unique tombs and inscriptions.
• Best for: Ancient history lovers.
• Tip: Visit Patara Beach nearby for a mix of history and relaxation.

9. Hattusha – Çorum Province

• The ancient capital of the Hittite Empire, featuring massive stone walls and temples.
• Best for: Archaeology enthusiasts and history lovers.
• Tip: Visit in spring or autumn to avoid the summer heat.

10. Aphrodisias – Aydın Province

• An ancient city dedicated to the goddess Aphrodite, with one of the best-preserved stadiums in the world.
• Best for: Ancient architecture lovers.
• Tip: Don’t miss the Aphrodisias Museum, showcasing original sculptures.

11. Ani – Kars Province

• A medieval Armenian city, known as the City of 1,001 Churches.
• Best for: Off-the-beaten-path travelers and history lovers.
• Tip: Visit in winter for a magical snowy landscape.

12. Diyarbakır Fortress and Hevsel Gardens – Diyarbakır Province

• An ancient city wall with lush gardens, offering a glimpse into Turkey’s southeastern heritage.
• Best for: Cultural travelers and history enthusiasts.
• Tip: Try local Kurdish and Arabic cuisine in Diyarbakır’s old town.

13. Göbekli Tepe – Şanlıurfa Province

• The world’s oldest known temple complex, dating back to 9600 BC.
• Best for: Archaeology lovers and history buffs.
• Tip: Visit the Şanlıurfa Museum to see artifacts from the site.

14. Bursa and Cumalıkızık – Bursa Province

• The first capital of the Ottoman Empire, featuring mosques, markets, and traditional houses.
• Best for: Ottoman history enthusiasts.
• Tip: Try the famous İskender kebab, a local specialty.

15. Edirne Selimiye Mosque – Edirne Province

• A masterpiece by Mimar Sinan, regarded as one of the greatest Ottoman mosques.
• Best for: Architecture lovers and cultural tourists.
• Tip: Visit during the Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival for a unique experience.