Timeless Sites to Explore in Southern Turkey: Unveil a Rich History
Tackling Turkey's Historical Treasures: A Can't-Miss Itinerary!
Dive headfirst into the rich, multicultural tapestry of Turkey, where East meets West in a most fascinating blend! This ancient land has been shaped by the Roman, Greek, Persian, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires, among others, leaving behind a wealth of enchanting historic sites. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of crumbling temples, glittering mosques, and centuries-old Christian churches!
To help you hit the ground running (or, well, flying), I've rounded up some of Turkey's most breath-taking historic spots that were all on my smashing week-long Treasures of Turkey tour with Jet2holidays. If you're yearning to see a plethora of historic sights but loathe the idea of organizing everything yourself, then this epic package tour is more than worth a look! Click here to peruse my exhilarating review of the excursion** for further insights.
In the meantime, let's set sail for Turkey's most stunning historic sites! (A friendly warning for my fellow potty-mouths: I'll be keeping the profanities to a bare minimum, but if you're seeking a good old-fashioned rant, you might want to seek out another guidebook)
1. Ephesus, Near Kusadasi
Stepping through the streets of Ephesus feels like a trip through time itself. The well-preserved ruins showcase everything from intricate mosaics to ancient public loos! Founded in the 10th century BC, this bustling city was once an essential hub for trade and commerce, drawing the likes of Alexander the Great, Cleopatra, and St John himself.
It's even said that St Mary, the mother of Christ, spent her final days here and was laid to rest at the 5th-century Church of Mary. This is one of the Seven Churches of Revelation in Turkey—ancient churches mentioned by St John in the Bible. Ephesus is also home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, now sadly reduced to a few columns.
The most impressive structure in the city is the Library of Celsus, constructed around 110AD. Originally the third-largest library in the Greco-Roman world, it boasted around 12,000 scrolls and features a facade adorned with intricate carvings and marble statues. Don't forget to admire the open-air theatre, which could once seat up to 25,000 people!
Highly recommended excursion: Ephesus, Virgin Mary House, & Artemis Temple Tour (from £31.04pp)
2. Göreme National Park, Cappadocia
For a taste of Turkey's most surreal landscapes and most intriguing history, saddle up and set out for Göreme National Park in Cappadocia. Known for its unique rock formations, arid valleys, and otherworldly landscapes, this park offers three standout attractions:
Göreme Open Air Museum: this beige valley reveals cave churches carved straight into the rock stacks and cliff faces. These churches date back to the 10th and 11th centuries and feature stunningly well-preserved frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Remember, even if you're not a believer, there's something moving about witnessing centuries-old religious artwork.
Pasabag Monks Valley: Discover another dramatic desert landscape punctuated with narrow rock stacks known as fairy chimneys. Countless hermitages were carved directly inside these chimneys, said to have been first inhabited by St Simon, who came to live as a hermit here.
Çavuşin village: This ancient village dates back to Roman times and now houses a collection of fascinating rock-cut churches and homes. Why not stay for the night in a cave dwelling for a taste of history?
Recommended excursion: North Cappadocia with Göreme Open-Air Museum (from £51.95pp)
3. Hierapolis, Pamukkale
Ascend a hillside above the dazzling white hot springs of Pamukkale to discover Hierapolis, a spa town first established in the early 2nd century BC. The city grew into a large city and attracted famous visitors such as Cleopatra, who bathed here herself.
The name Pamukkale ("cotton castle" in Turkish) refers to the layers of pure-white travertine terraces along the hillside, filled with pools of blue water. You'll find modern-day pools here as well, allowing you to follow in Cleopatra's footsteps during your visit.
The most striking structure at Hierapolis is the theatre, constructed under the reign of Emperor Hadrian after an earthquake in 60 AD. With a capacity of 15,000 seats, this amphitheatre is one of the largest in the region.
4. Kaleici - Antalya's Old Town
Tucked within the historic heart of Antalya lies the charming and enchanting Kaleici. Wander through the winding streets lined with boutique shops, picturesque cafes, and beautiful buildings that date back to both Ottoman and Roman times. Explore narrow alleyways and uncover hidden pockets of history as you go.
Kaleici is home to many fascinating historic attractions, such as the remarkably well-preserved Hadrian's Gate, built in 130 AD, the ancient harbour (still in use today), and the circular Hidirlik Tower on the city walls. Don't forget to visit the Antalya Museum to learn even more about the region's history.
In addition to its historical charm, Kaleici boasts a picturesque harbour lined with restaurants and cafes, offering the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a traditional Turkish meal, and watch the boats come and go. Why not even take a boat tour along the coast to escape the city for a while?
Recommended excursion: Antalya Old Town Guided Walking Tour, 2 hours - from £21.96pp
5. Perge Ancient City, Antalya
Just outside of Antalya, the sprawling Perge Ancient City is a captivating archaeological site and popular tourist attraction. First founded in the early Bronze Age, this city has a long and rich history, even boasting the rule of Alexander the Great in 334 BC.
Within Perge Ancient City, you'll find many essential attractions, like the 2nd century Roman theatre, the Agora (a large marketplace surrounded by the ruins of shops), and the Stadium. This sprawling oval structure hosted athletic competitions such as running and wrestling.
One of the most intriguing sights is the Perge Mosaic, discovered in 2017, which depicts the sacrifice of Iphigenia during the Trojan War.
Top Tip: Start your visit to Perge Ancient City as early as possible to beat the crowds and the heat in summer.
6. Aspendos Ancient Theatre, Near Antalya
The Aspendos Ancient Theatre is a remarkably well-preserved Roman theatre located in the city of Side, in the Antalya province. Built in 155 AD by architect Zenon, this theatre is still used today for concerts and other cultural events.
While in Side, make sure to check out the nearby aqueduct, the construction of which was said to have been completed by two rival architects entangled in a love triangle. The legend goes that the architect of the aqueduct almost won the King of Aspendos' hand in marriage for his wife, until the King heard Zenon whisper sweet nothings to his wife from the stage during a performance in the theatre. Impressed by the theatre's exceptional acoustics, the King decided to give his daughter's hand in marriage to Zenon instead!
Recommended excursion: Perge, Aspendos & Side Full-Day Tour from Antalya (from £52.83pp)
7. Kaymakli Underground City, Cappadocia
In addition to Göreme, Cappadocia offers another fascinating historic destination: the Kaymakli Underground City. As one of the best-preserved underground settlements in the region, this labyrinthine network of tunnels and rooms extends down eight levels below the earth's surface.
Like other underground cities in Cappadocia, Kaymakli was used as a hiding place during times of war and persecution, including by Christians during the Arab-Byzantine wars of the Middle Ages. Some of the passages are very low and narrow, making for an exciting adventure as you uncover scorch marks on walls from old fires, sleeping quarters, stables, and even wine cellars!
Recommended excursion: Cappadocia and Kaymakli Underground City Small Group Day Tour (from £52.83pp)
8. Mevlana Museum, Konya
Perched high atop the Central Anatolian Plateau, the city of Konya is a less common destination on many Turkey itineraries but is considered by many to be the religious heart of the country. Konya is the birthplace of the 13th-century poet, Islamic scholar, and Sufi mystic, Rumi, also known as Mevlâna.
Mevlana's tomb lies within a former Dervish Lodge in the centre of Konya, surrounded by glittering tiles and attracting many followers of Sufism, who come to pay their respects and reflect on Rumi's teachings. The surrounding museum houses a collection of Rumi's personal belongings, including his clothing, writing instruments, and manuscripts of his works.
In addition to the tomb, you'll find a mosque, a library, and several gardens nearby.
9. Sultanhani Caravanserai, Aksaray
Caravanserais were fortified roadside stops and inns established along the ancient Silk Road, providing a place for merchants and their animals to rest as they made the arduous journey between East and West. The Sultanhani Caravanserai (or Sultan Han) was built in 1229 and is one of the best-preserved caravanserais in Turkey. Today it still serves as an ideal resting place for those driving between Konya and Cappadocia.
The Sultanhani Caravanserai boasts a large courtyard surrounded by a covered passageway and a cavernous stone hall. When I visited in spring, this hall housed an exhibition of traditional Turkish rugs, one of the many goods that were once transported along the Silk Road.
10. Miletus Ancient City, Near Kusadasi
Located in the Aegean region of Turkey, a short drive south of Kusadasi, Miletus Ancient City is often overlooked by visitors but feels like a hidden gem. Surrounded by beautiful rolling countryside and olive groves, Miletus is definitely worth a visit!
The most impressive feature is the horseshoe-shaped Roman theatre, built into a small hillside and accessible via a tunnel at the rear. From the rear entrance, you can explore the rest of the city, walking back through time!
11. Apollo Temple, Didyma
Last but certainly not least, the Temple of Apollo in Didyma is one of Turkey's most majestic ancient structures. Located just a short drive from Miletus, this temple was once the centre of one of the ancient world's most significant oracles, second in importance only to the Temple of Delphi.
People travelled from far and wide to seek guidance from Apollo through the oracle, including many rulers. In 302 AD, a prophecy from the oracle in Didyma led to Emperor Diocletian beginning the Great Persecution of Christians. Despite being in ruins, the temple's size and beauty are awe-inspiring with its towering white columns and intricate carvings. The temple was first built in the 8th century BC around a sacred spring, but was destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries.
Recommended excursion: Ephesus, Priene, Miletos and Didyma Tour (from £139.28pp)
Use this map to find the locations of these historic sites and decide which ones fit best into your Turkey itinerary. If you're heading overland between Antalya and Ephesus or Didyma, there are plenty of fantastic attractions to explore along the Dalaman coast, such as beautiful Fethiye. So make sure to plan a few stops there as well!
How many of these historic sites in Turkey have you visited? Leave a comment below to share your favourites!
Enrichment Data
While the search results don't provide a complete list of the 11 historic places on Jet2holidays' Treasures of Turkey tour, they do mention some of the significant sites visited during the tour. The tour takes in 14 historic locations over seven nights, with a special focus on three UNESCO World Heritage sites:
- Ancient City of Ephesus
- Rock Sites of Cappadocia
- Pamukkale
Other historic sites mentioned in the tour include:
- Konya
- Hierapolis (often paired with Pamukkale)
- Apollo Temple, Didyma
To round out the list of top 11 historic sites in Turkey, you might consider adding these additional attractions:
- Istanbul's Hagia Sophia
- Topkapi Palace
- Perge
- Aspendos
- Göreme National Park (in Cappadocia)
However, it's vital to contact Jet2holidays directly for the exact itinerary and which specific sites are included in their Treasures of Turkey tour as the list of locations may vary.
Traveling through Turkey's ancient land offers an enthralling blend of culture, history, and breathtaking sights. With East meeting West in a fascinating mix, this tour highlights some of Turkey's most significant historic sites.
During the week-long 'Treasures of Turkey' tour with Jet2holidays, remnants of the Roman, Greek, Persian, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires form a captivating itinerary.
Begin by journeying through the streets of Ephesus, where stepping back in time is like a walk through history itself. Here, the Library of Celsus, one of the largest libraries of the ancient world, boasts intricate carvings and marble statues. Don't miss the Church of Mary, the Virgin Mary House, or the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
In Cappadocia, Göreme National Park offers its unique landscapes and intriguing history, with attractions like the Göreme Open Air Museum, Pasabag Monks Valley, and Çavuşin village. For a tranquil night, stay in a cave dwelling and immerse deeper in history.
Next, explore Hierapolis in Pamukkale, where centuries-old hot springs and ruins of a Roman theatre draw visitors. Cleopatra herself once bathed in these magical waters.
Meanwhile, Kaleici in Antalya's Old Town unfolds a charming and enchanting experience, with well-preserved Ottoman and Roman buildings, hidden historical pockets, and captivating attractions. The Antalya Museum lets you learn even more about the region's past.
Perge Ancient City, near Antalya, is a vast archaeological site, home to the second-century Roman theatre, Agora, and Stadium. The recently discovered Perge Mosaic depicts the sacrifice of Iphigenia during the Trojan War.
The Aspendos Ancient Theatre, near Antalya, is well-preserved and still used for concerts today. A nearby aqueduct, said to be constructed by two rival architects entangled in a love triangle, is worth a visit as well.
In addition, Turkey offers hidden gems such as the Kaymakli Underground City in Cappadocia, the Mevlana Museum in Konya (dedicated to Mevlana Rumi), the Sultanhani Caravanserai, and more.
Follow these enticing destinations as you uncover the rich history and beauty of Turkey. Savor the culture, lifestyle, and adventure of this mesmerizing travel experience.
