National Geographic lists: 10 experiences to have in Turkey

Watching the stars in the Kaçkar highlands

For those seeking a truly otherworldly experience, the western Kaçkar Mountains near Turkey's Black Sea coast offer a perfect spot. While this region is known for its mesmerizing natural beauty and serene atmosphere, it also hosts some of the country's best stargazing locations. The high plateaus of the Kaçkar Mountains provide an excellent environment for stargazing, with clear and dark skies completely removed from the distractions of modern life.

One of the most ideal spots for stargazing is the Pokut Plateau, which is situated on a ridge at an altitude of approximately 2,000 meters. This small and charming highland settlement is home to traditional guesthouses that draw attention with their wooden architecture. By staying in these guesthouses, you can hike through lush green mountain landscapes during the day, and find peace at night under a sky filled with stars, far from the noise of modern life.

Exploring the Thrace Vineyard Route to taste Turkey's wines

Eastern Thrace, a region not typically associated with vineyards, is actually home to some of the oldest wine-producing areas in history. For wine enthusiasts and those interested in historical heritage, the Thrace Vineyard Route offers an unforgettable journey. Just a short drive from Istanbul, this route connects 12 wineries stretching from the outskirts of the city to the Greek border.

The region's vineyards produce a variety of unique local wines, with striking reds from indigenous grape varieties such as Papazkarası standing out. For an even deeper journey into Turkey's winemaking history, do not neglect to visit Bozcaada, located off the coast of Gallipoli, which has been a center of viticulture since the fifth century B.C. Here, you can tour small-scale vineyards and enjoy the rich flavors of wines that reflect the ancient traditions of these fertile lands.

Exploring Adana, the city of flavor and culture

Adana, one of Turkey's most vibrant and culturally rich cities, is located in the southeastern part of the country. As Turkey's fifth-largest city, Adana is known not only for its culinary culture, led by the famous Adana kebab, but also for its deep historical roots and dynamic urban life. Stretching along the Seyhan River, which has nurtured civilizations for thousands of years, the city is a treasure trove filled with ancient architecture, bustling bazaars, and lively cultural festivals.

Visitors to Adana can explore the grand Sabancı Central Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the Middle East, with its towering minarets and magnificent river view. The city's rich history is also reflected in iconic structures such as the ancient Taşköprü (Stone Bridge), which dates back to the Roman era and remains one of the oldest bridges still in use today.

Walking the Lycian Way

Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Lycian Way stands out as a unique paradise for hikers located on Turkey's southern coast. Stretching for 760 kilometers along the Teke Peninsula, this long-distance hiking route not only offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean but also invites travelers on a journey that follows the traces of the ancient Lycian civilization dating back thousands of years.

The historical ruins, ancient settlements, rock tombs, and ancient paths you will encounter along the hike are among the main features that distinguish this route from others. The Lycian Way captivates with its natural beauty as much as its rich historical texture. The trail offers a route that extends from the peaks of mountains covered in pine forests to the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean.

Paragliding in Ölüdeniz

Located in the southwest of Turkey, Ölüdeniz is known as a paradise that has gained fame not only for its turquoise waters and white sandy beaches but also for paragliding. When you take off from the summit of Babadağ (at an altitude of approximately 1,965 meters) and begin to glide, you are accompanied by the green hills, pine forests, and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean that seem to stretch on forever beneath you.

Paragliding in Ölüdeniz is conducted under the guidance of experienced instructors. Even if you have no paragliding experience, you can fly with a professional tandem pilot and enjoy this unique experience. Furthermore, the cable car ride used to reach the takeoff point is a scenic feast in itself, offering you the beauties of the region as you ascend toward the summit of the mountain.

Kitesurfing in Akyaka

Akyaka has made a name for itself as Turkey's premier kitesurfing destination, thanks to the town's strong, consistent winds and natural environment. Located two hours from Bodrum, this small town is considered a paradise for kitesurfing enthusiasts.

The thermal winds blowing from land to sea provide a safe and enjoyable experience in this region. Kitesurfing in Akyaka is ideal for both beginners and professional athletes; the town's kitesurfing schools offer training for students of all levels. Furthermore, Akyaka's vibrant atmosphere provides many attractive options to explore during your downtime from kitesurfing.

Exploring Aladağlar National Park

Located in the southeast of Turkey, Aladağlar National Park is a hidden gem that attracts nature lovers and birdwatchers with its mesmerizing landscapes and rich biodiversity. This magnificent national park is often compared to Yosemite National Park in the United States; however, it offers a quieter and more peaceful experience, away from the crowds of visitors.

Aladağlar National Park is known for its peaks exceeding 3,000 meters, stunning mountain views, and pristine lakes. The hiking trails in the park stretch along mountain meadows and forested slopes, offering visitors a unique environment where they can be alone with nature.

Visiting Mount Nemrut

Located in eastern Turkey, Mount Nemrut captivates its visitors with its mystical atmosphere and ancient history. Upon reaching the summit of the mountain, the colossal stone heads located here take you on a journey into the past. These stone heads are part of massive statues built in memory of King Antiochus, who ruled the Kingdom of Commagene in the 1st century B.C. The fact that the heads of the statues have been detached adds an even more mysterious air to these ancient ruins.

These impressive monuments on Mount Nemrut are best seen at sunrise or sunset; during these hours, the rays of the sun create a mystical glow on the statues, and the view from the mountain summit becomes truly magical. During these special hours of the day, visitors have the opportunity to take a journey back thousands of years by watching the moments when the faces of the ancient gods slowly become visible.

Surfing the waves of the Black Sea in Ordu

Located on the Black Sea coast in northern Turkey, Ordu has become a destination on the radar of surfers in recent years. The Perşembe district, in particular, draws attention with its golden-leaf-covered terrain and striking natural beauty, while the rugged Black Sea waves make this region ideal for surfing. Far from the crowded beaches in the south, Ordu offers surf enthusiasts a peaceful and unique experience.

The district's beaches, which are suitable for surfing, provide excellent conditions for both beginners and experienced surfers. Local surf schools in the region offer guidance for beginners while providing opportunities for more experienced athletes to improve their techniques.

Enjoying the 'farm-to-table' culinary culture in Urla

Located near İzmir, Urla has rapidly become a rising star on Turkey's gastronomic scene in recent years. Once a place where only beachgoers would stop for a break, this small town is now home to some of Turkey's most innovative and flavor-focused restaurants.

In Urla, there are many restaurants that operate with a 'farm-to-table' philosophy, and these establishments creatively utilize the region's agricultural wealth in their kitchens. In particular, Michelin-starred restaurants such as Teruar and OD Urla offer unforgettable dining experiences by using fresh and seasonal products from local farms.