Known as the “bridge between the East and West”, Turkey is a mix of both exotic, historical and traditional beauty, all combined into one country, from influences from the Middle East and the Mediterranean, the Balkans and areas of Central Asia as a result of past invasions and settlements. A place where you can soak in the Mediterranean sun, visit a large number of Bazaars, Hamams, beaches, wander through hundreds and thousands of years’ worth of history, ruins, museums and architecture as well as visiting the plentiful scenic locations which you could lose yourself in.
Aya Sofya Museum (Hagia Sophia) – Istanbul
Located in Istanbul, renowned as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. The Aya Sofya Museum, is also one of Istanbul’s top sightseeing attractions, but also one of the top sites in Turkey. Initially a church, it became a mosque in the 15th century after the city was conquered by The Ottomans. In 1935 it was converted into a museum where visitors can observe the mosaic-covered dome ceiling.
Blue Mosque – Istanbul
Blue Mosque, also known as Sultan Ahmed in Istanbul, is another piece of architecture and history that attracts many people. This masterpiece was built between 1609 and 1616 where inside of the mosque, the ceiling is lined with 20,000 blue tiles with different patterns, resulting in giving the mosque this very popular name! To this very day it is still being used as a Mosque.
The Grand Bazaar
In the heart of Istanbul’s Old City, the Grand Bazaar, initially started as a small vaulted bedesten (warehouse) in 1461. This Bazaar has expanded vastly over the years with lots of tea drinking, and learning the art of bargaining. It is recommended that you leave around three hours’ worth when shopping here
Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
This museum, located in the capital of Turkey, Ankara, consists of many artifacts belonging and dating back to the Anatolian civilizations and is one of a kind! This collection includes legacies from many civilizations, including prehistoric times such as Assyrian and Hittite, as well as from the Paleolithic era and from the Kingdoms of Phrygia and Urartu.
Hamams
Although not an attraction to visit, visiting a Hamam in Turkey is a perfect opportunity to wind down from any day of sightseeing in Turkey as it is one of the traditional sensual comforts that many Turkish people. still use today! You can find a Hamam in many places around Turkey such as in Antalya, Istanbul, Bursa and Goreme.