Turkey’s second most popular tourist destination is the Ephesus region and surroundings. Millions of land and sea tourists visit the Ephesus region to take advantage of what it has to offer, thanks to the historic city of Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary. Ephesus is highly accessible even for a day trip from Istanbul, being only an hour’s drive from the Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport and 25 minutes from the Kusadasi port, respectively. Along with the major travel operators, cruise lines, in particular, include Ephesus in their itineraries to Greek islands and bring thousands of visitors each year. Even though millions of people visit the area each year, I have some recommendations to help you avoid the crowds so you may more easily and pleasantly explore the area, especially in the old city of Ephesus and other nearby tourist destinations. The top 7 list of attractions to do in Ephesus is provided below. So, hurry! Please apply for a turkey visa online from our website now.

Explore the ancient city of Ephesus

But it was coming from the other side. There are two main gates in Ephesus’s ancient city and nearly all of the large tour buses that hurry to the Virgin Mary’s home in the morning escape through one of them. Buy tickets and enter the ancient city at the exact at 8:00 am. It is strongly advised that you arrive at the lower gate of Ephesus at 7:50 sharp. Don’t forget to get tickets for the Terrace Houses area, which also features stunning mosaics from Ephesus’ affluent class. Start on the port street, then proceed to the Ephesus Theater before crossing the harbour agora. Explore the Library of Celsus and the nearby gates leading to the harbour agora while keeping an eye out for the world’s first advertisement in the centre of this marble street. The Terrace Houses are close to the library, and you can skip the line by purchasing advance tickets. Before reaching the latrines (toilets) just across the entrance to the terrace buildings, take aerial photographs of the marshes that extend to the Aegean Sea and half of the ancient city. Before arriving at the Gate of Hercules, proceed up the marble street and take shots of the Trajan Fountain and the Temple of Hadrian. Before seeing the city Agora and the Odeon, take pictures like the other tourists amid the gate and the Domitian holy shrine. Before going to the House of the Virgin Mary, pause in the museum shop to refuel.

See the Terrace Houses

The complex of terrace houses was founded in 1962 and has since become the crown jewel of the whole historic city. It represents the luxurious lifestyles of the wealthy in ancient Ephesus. All of the floors are covered in mosaics, and the walls are painted to reflect the artistic taste of Ephesus’ wealthy citizens. Rich homemakers in Ephesians could shop at upscale boutiques below terrace houses because the wealthy had a street divided from the lower class by several columns. The region’s vibrant marbles may be seen on the walls and floors of homes, and the Austrian Archaeological Institute interns are still working to solve the world’s largest riddle. Don’t forget to visit the restrooms just across the building when your tour of the Terrace Houses is through. This is where the wealthy sent their slaves to warm up the marble before they relaxed.

Visit the House of The Virgin Mary

On top of Bulbul Mountain, 4 kilometres away, with views of Ephesus, Selcuk, and the Aegean Sea, is the Virgin Mary’s residence. The shrine was found by priests from the nearby city of Izmir who were motivated by the book of Clemens Brentano, who met with Anne Catherine and published her visions thanks to the prophecies of Anne Catherine Emmerich. The shrine gained national attention after Pope Leo XIII visited it in 1896. Christians believed that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was carried here by Saint John the Evangelist and spent her entire life there until her dormition or assumption sanctified it as a place of worship. In 2006, Pope Benedict XVI also paid a visit to the shrine, adding to its growing popularity worldwide. Since The Virgin Mary is mentioned in the Holy Quran, the shrine is now significant to Christians and Muslims. If you visit about lunchtime because buses swarm the shrine in the morning, you can avoid the crowds.

Visit the Selcuk Museum

When exploring the Ephesus region, you pass through Selcuk, where a recently renovated archaeology museum displays most of the artefacts discovered during Ephesus excavations since the 1860s. The British Museum and Vienna also include exhibits of Ephesus artefacts. Still, it is recommended that you visit the Museum of Selcuk on the same day as the ruins to complete your trip to Ephesus. Additionally, you can learn in-depth details about the Anatolian Mother God Cult, which predated the arrival of the holy religions and was immensely powerful in Anatolia. The Artemis marble statues are incredible, along with the numerous discoveries of the extensive ancient cities and more than a century of excavations. After cooling up in the museum’s total air conditioning, walk to the Turkish Bath behind the museum.

See the Cathedral of Saint John

Saint John the Baptist stayed in the region and continued to spread the teachings of Jesus Christ after bringing the mother of Jesus to Ephesus. Selcuk town, a cathedral, was built in his honour by the castle, and he was put to rest there. From the terraces of the Cathedral, you can see the Ephesus plains and how they looked in Roman and Hellenistic times. The plains extend down to the Aegean Sea. It is now around 8 kilometres away from the Ephesus that we see today, which was situated on the water. It is advised to stroll down to the Isabey Mosque, which is close to the Cathedral and provides attractive photo opportunities of the Selcuk Castle.

Picture the Temple of Artemis

Today, there are seven natural wonders, two of which are in Turkey. One is the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus in Bodrum, while the other is the nearby Temple of Artemis. It was 115 metres long, 46 metres broad, and had two rows of 13-meter-tall columns. It was a stunning building and represented the Ephesians’ devotion to their patron goddess Artemis. Herostratus set fire to the temple’s wooden roof in 356 to gain fame, but his name was forbidden after his execution in Ephesus. The phrase “herostratic fame” was eventually coined in Theopompus’s honour. Today, just one column can be seen, but when you consider that the temple once had more than 127 columns, you can get an idea of the magnitude of the massive building. An image of the Temple of Artemis taken from the west shows the Selcuk Castle, Isabey Mosque, and Cathedral of Saint John hiding behind its lone column.

See the Isabey Mosque

The Isabey Mosque, built in the 14th century, is a superb illustration of Turkish Anatolian Beylik architecture. Since the mosque resembles the Great Mosque of Damascus, it is clear that the Turkish architects were inspired by Syrian architecture. The majority of the mosque’s stones were reused from nearby ruins. I had two minarets in the past, but today just one is visible, right over the mosque’s entrance. Because of the asymmetrical design, the domes have various diameters. The crowns have lovely tiles, and the garden blooms beautifully in the spring and summer. Park your car close to the Cathedral and spend a pleasant afternoon exploring the mosque and the Selcuk Museum on the walk.

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Turkey, which has a population of over 84 million, is a massive country with many incredible things to see and do. The Bosphorus Strait, a large channel that a network of ferries and bridges can easily cross, divides the city, famous for straddling two continents.

Although the mosques and bazaars on the European side of the city attract the bulk of tourists, Istanbul’s Asian side also has a lot to offer. The cultural centre of this area is the Kadikoy District or Kadköy in Turkish. This neighbourhood has a more laid-back vibe and fewer visitors and is full of coffee shops, bars, and theatres. So, why are you still online applying for a turkey visa online and booking your tour?

The best time to visit Turkey is from September to November because swimming is still allowed until mid-October, even if the peak season has ended. Check out these top destinations for a stress-free getaway, from calm beaches to gorgeous forests where the leaves turn golden.

Want to visit the colourful bazaars and rugged valleys of Turkey? Apply for a turkey e visa online and book a group tour or solo, including stops at important historical sites and a hot-air balloon ride over the country.

Bozcaada

Bozcaada is best visited in September because that is when the renowned wineries on the island are harvesting their grapes. The island also lacks its typical summer energy, and in the fall, it transforms into a tranquil location where you can enjoy superb Aegean food.

Mardin

Spending a few days among Mardin’s historic stone houses will make you feel like you’ve been transported to another planet. You won’t likely encounter any tourists in the autumn, fully allowing you to experience the culture, especially the delectable local cuisine.

Fethiye

Usually a popular tourist attraction, Fethiye shifts to a more pleasant atmosphere in the fall when there are more locals than tourists. See all the stunning Aegean coves and historical sites, including Patara, Xanthos, Kalkan, Dalyan, Kabak, Letoon, and Kaunos. Take benefit of the pleasant autumn weather and walk the famous Lycian Way if you’re more athletic.

Assos

The ancient town of Assos and the 3,000-year-old village of Behramkale are definite stops for history buffs since they transport tourists to a different era. Discover the ancient ruins while dining on Aegean cuisine.

Mersin

Despite being largely ignored, Mersin is surrounded by more than 108km (67mi) of natural beaches; therefore, there are many undiscovered beaches to explore. The Maiden Castle, Caves of Heaven and Hell, Alahan Monastery, Adamkayalar, Kanlidivane, Soli Pompeipolis, Anemurium Ancient City, and Cleopatra’s Gate are just a few of the ancient sites in Mersin that are well-known.

Cunda

Come September, the lovely island of Cunda is tranquil and makes a wonderful getaway for couples. Stay at one of the many boutique hotels housed in restored old stone buildings and indulge in delicious Aegean cuisine prepared with the renowned regional olive oil.

Artvin

The Black Sea region of Turkey is renowned for its beautiful natural scenery, and the fall there is adorable. View the Kaçkar Mountains from one of Artvin’s many mountain villages and be sure to hike the rest of the province’s routes.

Cappadocia

Autumn in Cappadocia, one of Turkey’s most popular tourist attractions, is quite tranquil since the colours of the season bring out the magical fairy chimneys before you explore the area with a worthwhile hike or bike tour. Reserve a hot-air balloon ride to completely take in the view.

Gökçeada

Turkey’s largest island is one of the best places to truly escape from the outside world, especially in the fall after the tourists have left. Take advantage of the last few days of summer by getting lost in the old villages, swimming at one of the several beaches, and indulging in some outstanding cuisine.

Datça

Datça, one of the Mula Province’s most undeveloped regions, is a beautiful place to visit and is incredibly peaceful in the fall. Find your inner serenity by swimming at one of the many deserted beaches and exploring Datça’s lovely old town.

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Due to Turkey’s diverse collection of cultural, historical, natural, and culinary attractions, each tourist to the country leaves with a list of special experiences from their stay there. The most unusual things to do in Turkey are explored by Turkey Visa Online, from hiking trails to oil wrestling competitions.

Hamam

Nothing compares to being scrubbed down, washed, and massaged in a cloud of soap foam, especially in a traditional Hamam decorated with marble and a lot of steam. One of Turkey’s top draws undoubtedly the hamam experience, and many tourists look forward to a soothing and deeply purifying Turkish bath.

Hot air balloon in Cappadocia

Visiting Cappadocia is a unique experience in and of itself, with its beautiful fairy chimneys and network of underground cities, but seeing the area from above is, of course, very amazing. Many hot air balloon rides leave early in the morning so you can fly over Cappadocia while seeing the magnificent sunrise.

Whirling Dervishes

The Mevlevi/Sufi Order, of which the whirling dervishes are a part, was established by the Sufi poet and mystic Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Balkhi-Rumi in the 13th century and investigated aspects of mysticism in Islam. Because of the dervish robe and expertly choreographed movements, as well as the spiritual atmosphere that the ritual expresses, the whirling dervish ceremony is a particularly remarkable event.

Cooking classes

Turkish cuisine is a true blend of its various areas, with its ingredients and recipes, not to mention the countless innovations of the imperial Ottoman chefs. As a result, for those who want to taste Turkish food firsthand and gain a deeper understanding of the diverse country’s delicacies, it is always a unique experience.

The Lycian Way

The major tourist attractions in Turkey, such as the imperial mosques and palaces in Istanbul, Ephesus, Cappadocia, etc., are already well known to most people; nevertheless, the Lycian Empire ruins are still a little bit under the radar. The Lycian Way is a 540-kilometre (336-mile) long coastal hiking trail by roughly 25 isolated historical Lycian monuments. The walk from Fethiye to Antalya might take up to 29 days to complete.

Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival

One of Turkey’s strangest sports, oil wrestling, includes athletes being covered in oil before competing for victory. The Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Festival, held annually since 1346, is the location to see matches between amateur wrestlers and the champions (known as Pehlivan).

Culinary walks

One of the most exciting and hilarious ways to learn about a culture is to explore a city’s markets, restaurants, and cafés. Participants in Istanbul’s culinary walks, led by Culinary Backstreets and have grown vastly popular, can eat their way around the city’s kebab shops, bazaars, meyhanes, neighbourhoods, and much more.

Hiking in the Far Northeast

The region that includes Trabzon and Rize along the Black Sea is most easily compared to the Alps since it is filled with stunning mountains, lush valleys, and small mountain homes. Due to its complete separation from urban life inside pristine nature, Turkey’s Far Northeast offers a genuinely unique experience for nature enthusiasts. The Sumela Monastery, a Greek Orthodox monastery located within the Pontic Mountains, is one of the region’s most popular destinations.

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For first-time visitors to Istanbul, there is much more to discover besides the main tourist attractions. Check out some top things to do in the large Turkish metropolis, whether it’s your first time on the Asian side or a Bosphorus tour.

Visit the major Sultanahmet sights.

Okay, apply for a turkey visa online first; if this is your first time visiting Istanbul, the major historical sites need to be at the top of your list. The city’s ancient district is home to numerous attractions, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Basilica Cistern, the Topkapi Palace, the Chora Church, the Grand Bazaar, and the Archeology Museums.

Explore lesser-known locations

After you’ve grown familiar with the famous tourist destinations, why not explore some less well-known but still stunning locations? Visit Yavuz Selim Mosque, the Pammakaristos Church, Beylerbeyi Palace, St. Stephen Church, or the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople in Balat, among other places.

Get out of Sultanahmet

Suppose you’re visiting Istanbul for the first time. In that case, you may have decided to book a hotel in the old city to be close to the tourist attractions, but make sure to venture outside of Sultanahmet and explore the city’s other neighbourhoods. To learn about local culture, we advise you to cross the Galata Bridge and explore Karaköy, Ukurcuma, and Galata.

Take a Bosphorus tour.

Without seeing Istanbul from the ocean, a trip there is not complete. The city’s public transportation ferry leaves every day from the Eminönü station, and you can either reserve a private Bosphorus tour or take advantage of the long tour. Check out our Bosphorus tour guide right away.

Visit the islands

You’ll quickly discover why Istanbul’s islands are the most well-liked weekend escape. Since no cars are allowed on the islands, everyone commutes on foot or by bicycle, and the stunning houses from the Ottoman era are harmonious with the surrounding natural environment. There are many beach clubs where you may swim throughout the summer, or you can go to one of the several seafood restaurants to eat delectable meals by the water.

Check out the nightlife in Arnavutköy.

In addition to being well known for its fish restaurants, the wealthy neighbourhood of Arnavutköy is also well known for its cocktail rooftop bars. Visit one of the many bars on Arnavutköy Bebek Caddesi to watch how the people celebrate.

Visit a hamam

The greatest way to unwind in Istanbul after all that walking, travelling, and sightseeing is with a genuine Turkish bath experience. You’ll want nothing more than to nap in your hotel room after visiting Kiliç Ali Paşa Hamam where you may let yourself be washed and massaged in a cloud of soap bubbles.

Explore Turkish cuisine

Make sure you thoroughly introduce Turkish cuisine as there is much more to it than just kebabs and döners. Make appointments at some of the city’s greatest Turkish restaurants to taste various dishes from many regions in the country. Don’t forget to eat fresh fish along the Bosphorus while you’re there.

Go to the Asian side.

Try to get a ship that will take you to Kadiköy since many first-time visitors miss Istanbul’s Asian side. You’ll hardly ever meet tourists in the Moda neighbourhood, so we advise exploring it and taking in the local culture.

Visit a meyhane.

A true meyhane (tavern), where sipping raki, eating meze, and participating in long discussions are essential, must be visited in Istanbul, especially if you have a turkey e visa. Some of Istanbul’s top meyhanes have been in business for a long time and offer delicious, regular menus.

Istanbul seems to have everything. The reasons to visit Turkey’s most extraordinary metropolis are numerous, ranging from physical mementos of past empires to the tourist attractions and sounds of a modern city experienced through its up-and-coming districts.

Do you want to visit Turkey’s crowded bazaars and steep valleys? Apply for a Turkey visa online and plan a tour that features visits to famous monuments and a hot-air balloon ride across the landscape.

With a population of over 14 million people, Istanbul is a vibrant city. The magnitude and terrain of the city – previously home to the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires – are worthy of its richly diverse past, straddling both Asia and Europe and encircled by the Sea of Marmara & the Black Sea.

Picture palaces adorned with mosaics and paintings and gorgeous mosques piercing the skyline. Various cafés, bars, boutique shops, and rooftop restaurants line the streets in the vibrant districts, and most locations feature colourful bazaars. These are just a few reasons you should put this fascinating city on your bucket list.

Historical sites can be found all around the region.

Byzantine castle fortresses, Ottoman palaces, and Roman-era obelisks are some of Istanbul’s historical attractions. The Hagia Sofia Museum is an architectural masterpiece that served as a Byzantine church before becoming an Ottoman Mosque. The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, because of its illustrious interior tile decorations, grey cascading domes, and six minarets, are two examples of this grandeur. While there are several galleries, museums, and religious buildings to visit, you’re likely to be charmed by one of the city’s many old and dignified streets that have avoided modernity.

Spectacular Bosphorus views

The Bosphorus Strait, which separates Istanbul’s European and Asian shores, is the city’s most unique characteristic. Visitors can take a public boat trip or charter a private boat to see some of the city’s most breathtaking sights. Ottoman coastal houses, the 15 July Martyrs Bridge, the fishing village of Anadolu Kava, and Byzantine palaces are among the sights to view. What you see is dependent on the route you take (short or long cruise) and your financial constraints.

The tasty food

Istanbul is a hub of culinary creativity, with chefs famous for inventing fantastic new dishes based on classic Turkish recipes. Spend the day sampling street food favourites, including simit (the country’s favourite sesame-encrusted bagel), midye dolma (mussels mingled with seasoned rice and lemon juice served in half of their original shell), and doner meat stuffed in a wrap. These can be seen throughout the city.

Imam bayildi, a roasted and filled eggplant dish, is a good option for a heartier lunch. Try it at Karaköy Lokantasi (an expensive restaurant in the Karaköy district serving excellent traditional Turkish cuisine) or Kirkpinar Lokantasi (a quality open buffet restaurant with branches all over the city). At night, try one of the fancy restaurants that reinvent these classic dishes. Barbounia does a fantastic job modernising traditional Aegean and Anatolian recipes by integrating new ingredients. The additions are simple but rewarding.

The diversity

“If the world were only one country, Istanbul would be its capital,” Napoleon is believed to have said. Travellers throughout history have agreed with this sentiment in a variety of ways. Istanbul has long been a mix of cultures, religions, and people. “Everything meets everything else” might be a better description of the city than the old East meets West term. Churches and mosques mix with synagogues. Walking the streets is an exercise in identifying what language you’re hearing at any given moment, and diasporas from Armenia, Syria, Georgia, Egypt, Korea, the Philippines, and dozens of other countries continue to contribute to the city’s vibrant fabric.

On two continents, some of the most intriguing neighbourhoods.

Kadiköy, Balat, and Karaköy are neighbourhoods that provide insight into Istanbul’s past and the changes that have resulted in a slew of new cafés, restaurants, bars, and other establishments.

The Ahrida Synagogue, one of Istanbul’s oldest, is located in Balat, the city’s historic Jewish Quarter, lined with rows of colourful buildings. New cafés and restaurants have sprung up in the run-down buildings along the Golden Horn, built into the hills. Following the earthquake of 1894, the majority of the Jewish community fled Balat, taking most of the riches and leaving the neighbourhood in ruins. However, the urban transformation (sponsored by Unesco) has boosted the local economy and made the region safer and cleaner, making locals happy.

Another European neighbourhood, Karaköy, has a blend of old and new in a single stretch. Every corner is home to boutique hotels, historic cathedrals, and pop-up stores. The seaside district is one of the city’s most popular nightlife locations, and you may have drinks while sipping cocktails under the vines and lighting that cross from one building to the next, creating a beautiful atmosphere.

Kadiköy, on the Asian side, is modest and growing. Aside from being known for its lively produce and fish market, the region has seen progress in the number of restaurants and pubs. Despite the change, the atmosphere is significantly more relaxed than in most European neighbourhoods because many people do not cross the bridge to the other side. For beautiful views of the city, go for a walk or enjoy a picnic at the Kadköy-Moda waterside park. But first, apply for a Turkish visa online.

The rooftop bars

With lots of to do and see in Istanbul, almost any rooftop bar or restaurant will provide you with a great vista of the city. 5 Kat, located in the famous Taksim-Cihangir district, offers some of the best ideas from both continents. Alexandra Cocktail Bar offers excellent cocktails (which are not always easy to come by in Istanbul) and has a view of the Bosphorus. The pub, and the surrounding area, have a more laid-back vibe, making it ideal for getting away from the crowds. Once you’ve finished your drink, there are lots of little backstreets lined with cafés and restaurants to get lost in.

The bazaars (grand and otherwise)

Bazaars are an essential part of Istanbul’s culture, and the Grand Bazaar, with its 30,000 square metres of space, is one of the world’s largest (323,000sqft). Decorative tiles, handmade rugs, antiques, and other items can be bargained for hours. The neighbouring Spice Bazaar is almost as big, with many spices, herbs, and teas. On a smaller scale, most Istanbul districts have their weekly food market, selling local vegetables from the country, cheeses, and fish from the surrounding waters.

The daily getaways

If you want to avoid the tourist crowds, day travels in and around Istanbul are ideal, especially during the summer months when heats are peak. Take some time to visit the Black Sea’s little towns and beaches, the Princes’ Islands in the Sea of Marmara, or the Belgrad Forest (north of the city). Bring some snacks and a speaker to see a different side of Istanbul.

Ramadan in the city

Ramadan (or Ramazan in Turkish), the holy month of fasting, is one of the most magical periods to visit the city. The city comes alive after sunset, despite being relatively quiet during the day. Local governments host iftar dinners every night, where hundreds of worshipers gather to break their daily fast after sunset, and public spaces around mosques are transformed into picnic grounds for post-prayer feasting. This month, enjoy the best of hospitality with a sense of community and togetherness that extends to everyone who sits at the table.

The street cats

The 2016 documentary Kedi (Turkish for “cat”) highlights the significance of these animals in Istanbul’s culture. Thousands of cats roam Istanbul’s streets, collectively cared for by locals, making them one of the city’s success stories.

During the Ottoman Empire, cats are thought to have arrived on ships landed in Istanbul (Constantinople). These ships were equipped with cats to combat rats and other minor insects, and they thrived in the metropolis. Some believe this is due to the influence of Islam (the country’s primary religion) and its affection for cats, which originates from an apocryphal incident in which the Prophet Muhammed cut a piece of his tunic away and avoided disturbing a sleeping cat.

Turkish baths

Since Roman times, Turkish baths, or hammams, have played an essential role in life in Istanbul. These businesses served as social hubs for men and women to interact (separately) and relax from the stresses of daily life. Visitors today include excited visitors and nostalgic residents who are anxious to enjoy the cleansing rituals given here – expect a steam room, an intensive scrub, and an excellent room visit to rehydrate and relax.

The rituals may differ depending on the bathhouse you attend and how much money you’re ready to spend. The top hammams in Istanbul range from architectural marvels from the 16th century, such as the classic Ottoman-era Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamam, to more basic baths like Cinili Hamami, founded in Bak 1640 and is famous among locals for maintaining faithfully to the traditional experience.

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Rahmi Koc was the chairman of the Koc Holding Company, which his father Vehbi Koc established in Ankara. He was born and grown in Ankara and went to school in Istanbul and the United States. In 1964, he returned to Turkey and became the head of the boarding office, retiring in 2003. Mustafa, his son, took up his father’s seat until his death in 2016. His youngest son is in charge of the family business, and he, like his brother, continues his grandfather’s and father’s charitable traditions. Rahmi Koc Museum is very famous in Turkey, and they have their place in Turkish history and tourism, apply for a turkey visa online and explore the 2nd most famous museum in Turkey.

Rahmi Koc Museum in Istanbul

Rahmi Koc purchased the Lengerhane by the Golden Horn of Istanbul and began restorations. The Ottoman Emperor Ahmet the third built the structure in the 18th century to create anchors and chains for the Ottoman navy. It had been abandoned for many years before Rahim Koc transformed it into a museum in 1996. In 2001, the museum directors recognised that they needed additional space for Rahmi Koc’s ever-growing industrial collection, expanding the museum by including the shipyard next door. The Museum or Rahmi Koc now spans around 27 thousand square metres in Istanbul. In Istanbul, the Rahmi Koc Museum has impressive industrial exhibition galleries. This lovely museum displays everything from classic vehicles to vintage cranes, training jets to small passenger planes, helicopters to submarines, diesel or steam engines to trains, trams, and other equipment. The museum is accessible by public ferries from many ports in Istanbul and is an excellent experience for families travelling to Turkey.

The Rahmi Koc Museum in Istanbul is available to visitors from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on weekdays and 6:00 p.m. on weekends, except on Mondays. There are also cafés and restaurants within the museum. As of March 2022, the Rahmi Koc Museum in Istanbul charges 30 TL for adults and 15 TL for students.

Rahmi Koc Museum in Ankara

Rahmi Koc’s second museum was opened in Ankara, the Turkish Republic’s capital. Rusthem Pasha, the son-in-law of the most powerful Ottoman Sultan, Soliman the Magnificent, built an ancient han. For long years, the han was used as an angora wool storage and tannery. The Anatolian Civilizations Museum in Ankara registered the structure, and the Rahmi Koc Museum Foundation leased it and renovated it into a museum in 2005. Cengelhan Museum, albeit not as big as Istanbul’s, houses essential industrial items such as the first typewriter, television, and tractor ever constructed in the Republic of Turkey. An American-Turkish corporation was founded in Ankara, and the Koc Holding Company still makes tractors.

Every day except Mondays, the Rahmi Koc Museum in Ankara is open to visitors from 10 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. on weekdays and at 6:00 p.m. on weekends. There are also cafés and restaurants within the museum. As of March 2022, the Rahmi Koc Museum in Istanbul charges 20 TL for adults and 10 TL for students.

If you wish to apply for a Turkish e visa online and know more about documents, fees, and how to apply? Please visit our website once and connect with our visa experts by Call, Email and WhatsApp.

Anyone with a tourism connection to Turkey has likely heard about, if not been, Cappadocia. This gorgeous place is one of a kind, having gained recognition for its unique but breathtaking landscape. The region is covered in soft volcanic rock that has been beautifully sculpted by nature over centuries and polished by humans, giving it a unique and alien look. So, why do you miss that opportunity hurry! Apply for a turkey visa online right away to explore these beautiful Fairy Chimneys, landscapes and hot air balloon rides.

It all began when surrounding active volcanoes erupted, sprinkling ash throughout the region. The ash formed into soft volcanic rock throughout time as it was subjected to ages of natural weathering from water and wind. Cappadocia’s beautiful scenery was created by natural processes, resulting in valleys and distinctive rock structures like fairy chimneys and rock citadels.

Humans in Cappadocia realised they could manipulate the landscape and opted to carve churches and homes and entire villages above and below ground into these rocks. So, if you want to see this incredible landscape face to face, contact us today to apply for a turkey e visa online and schedule a trip that includes all of these attractions.

Here are 8 of the top Cappadocian specialties:

1. Fairy Chimneys

Cappadocia’s most famous attraction is its fairy chimneys. After millions of years of erosion by floods and rivers, which destroyed the fragile layers of volcanic rock, these conical rock pillars formed (tuff). The tuff was coated with a layer of basalt in certain places, which is harder and thus erodes more slowly. Thousands of tall pillars with soft bodies protected by hard hats have evolved from millennia of uneven erosion.

These strange pillars, often known as fairy chimneys, may be seen across Cappadocia. Fairy chimneys come in various shapes and sizes, including mushroom-shaped, pointed, and columnar fairy chimneys. They cluster together in some spots, such as Pasabag, Rose, and Zelve Valley, generating spectacular rock forests. Urgup, Soganli, Pigeon Valley, and every other valley in Cappadocia also have fairy chimneys.

2. Devrent (Imagination) Valley

The only valley in the region that has never been populated is on the northern side of Aktepe. It lacks the cave homes and castles that attract many people to Cappadocia, but it has a plethora of stunning pink-hued rock formations created by years of erosion. Some of these formations have pillar-like structures, while others have unusual shapes. In the valley, there are also some animal-shaped rocks and fairy chimneys. The dolphin, seal, alligator, snake, and praying Mary rocks may all be found here. These interesting formations excite the mind as it attempts to figure out the shape of most of the rocks. For this reason, the valley is known as “Imagination Valley.” Devrent Valley is also one of the only spots in the region where visitors may see Cappadocia’s lunar landscape.

3. Mesa (tabletop mountain)

A mesa is a plain mountain, and Cappadocia has a few. Their flat tops provide breathtaking views against the Cappadocian horizon, even though they are not as tall or majestic as a typical mountain. Except for Aktepe Hill, the majority of these were river sediments. All of these mountains provide good hiking and mountain biking opportunities.

4. Uchisar Castle

The best way to describe Uchisar Castle is to use one word: mind-blowing. This massive pile of granite, standing 100 metres (328 feet) tall, is Cappadocia’s highest point, which is neither a mountain nor a hill. The little town of Uchisar, which developed thanks to the castle’s protection, is located just underneath it.

According to some experts, the citadel was initially a massive fairy chimney whose top had fallen off. Humans have cut rooms into the castle thanks to the soft rock of the citadel, giving it an unusual giant wasp-nest appearance. Nonetheless, the castle is unique in that it affords a panoramic view of the whole Cappadocian area from its height.

Ortahisar is a similar rock formation. However, it falls short of Uchisar Rock Castle at 80 metres (328 feet).

5. Underground Cities

Another fascinating characteristic of Cappadocia is its underground towns, which man created. These incredible towns, according to experts, were carved out around the beginning of the Hittite period. Today, 36 towns have been uncovered, but hundreds of these buildings are thought to have been carved by ancient Cappadocians.

When the region’s early inhabitants found how simple it was to chisel off the tuff layer, they opted to build enormous subterranean towns into the landscape for security reasons. Some of these towns extend 10 layers below the ground, while others stretch for many kilometres. Derinkuyu is the deepest, while Kaymakli is the widest.

6. Mushroom-shaped Chimneys

These fairy chimneys, which can be located in Gulsehir Open Palace, are among the most beautiful chimneys in the world. The only difference is that the top layer of basalt is worn into a mushroom-shaped crown, much like all other fairy chimneys.

7. Badlands

In Turkish, the Badlands, also known as Kirgibayir, is recognised for its fantastic weaving rock formations. It has been carved by millions of years of erosion, the rest of Cappadocia, and looks like a beautiful garden of fairy chimneys. The fairy chimneys here are wider and have bigger caps than at other similar locations in the region.

8. Amazing Valleys of Cappadocia

Cappadocia has roughly 70 magnificent valleys in total. Some are dried-up river valleys, while others were produced by erosion, and yet others have rivers running through them. While fairy chimneys may be found in practically all of these valleys, some, such as Ihlara, have something unique to offer. The valley, which has a river running through it, is one of the most natural locations to visit, providing fresh air and unspoiled natural beauty.

The majority of Cappadocia’s valleys formerly contained a human population. On the valley walls of the region’s valleys, rock-cut churches and homes are common. As a result, they are historically significant and a hiking paradise in the area.

Cappadocia has several fairy chimneys and landscapes. Apply for a Turkish visa online and plan your Turkey vacation to include these attractions that will save your trip from being too expensive.

Due to its famous thermal springs and healing waters, Afyon – or, to give the city its full name, Afyonkarahisar – is known as one of Turkey’s premier spa centres. It is also known for its marble, which is its most successful export in Turkey and across the world, accounting for roughly 12% of the country’s marble. Afyon, in reality, boasts several unique and incredibly rare marble kinds that are unique to the city and cannot be found anywhere else. Not only is marble from here used in structures like the Hagia Sophia.

But there’s more to Afyon than that; there are many other sights to see, like parks, castles, and shopping malls, to make your trip memorable. So, apply for a turkey visa online without wasting time and explore the capital city of the Turkish thermal Spa.

Look no farther than Afyon if you’re looking for a year-round alternative to Antalya that is halal-friendly and easily accessible from Istanbul and other major cities.

What is the origin of the name Afyonkarahisar?

Afyon literally means ‘opium poppy,’ after what was formerly the region’s most common crop, while kara Hisar means ‘black fortress,’ in Turkish. This refers to the old black fortress, which sits atop a 200-meter-high peninsula of dark volcanic rock and looks down on the town.

Where is Afyon?

Afyon is located on the edge of a hilly region known for agriculture. It is located in the Anatolian hinterland, halfway between the Aegean coast and the Anatolian hinterland. It has always been crucial for its location. It was the location of a victory in the Turkish War of Independence, when invaders were expelled from Turkey at the Battle of Dumlupinar on August 30, 1922.

Afyon – Spa Capital of Turkey

Afyon’s thermal springs

Gazilgöl (roughly translated as ‘lake with gas’) is the most well-known of Afyon’s thermal springs, located nearly 22 kilometres from the city centre. Gases and minerals such as sodium bicarbonate, carbon dioxide, sodium chloride, bromine, and fluorine are abundant in its waters.

Rheumatism, skin disorders, stomach problems, cardiovascular problems, and kidney and urinary bladder illnesses are all believed to be cured by its waters.

The healing powers of the thermal waters are still in demand today, with guests travelling worldwide, thanks to a 5,000-year history of spas here. They provide physical and psychological advantages, ensuring total rest and rejuvenation.

Many of the hotels in the place include spa facilities, including separate spas or sections for women and men. Women’s outdoor or indoor thermal pools and men-only pools are available in some locations. Steam rooms, hydrotherapy, aromatherapy, and saunas are instances of complementary treatments and therapies.

Afyon’s mud baths

Mud baths are one of Afyon’s treatments. By relaxing the muscles, the mud from nearby Sandikli is supposed to cure aches and pains and toxins from the body, consequently boosting circulation, curing rheumatism, and improving joint pain. It’s also supposed to help with weight reduction and wrinkle removal by smoothing the skin.

Turkish baths in Afyon

The bathhouse has a long history dating back to Roman times. Its focus on cleanliness was eagerly accepted by Turks, especially when the region embraced Islam.

Turkish hammam or bath became much more than a spot to wash throughout the Ottoman Empire and was built as the centre of many social gatherings. It developed its rituals, not just for bathing but also for the various celebrations here, such as wedding preparations, when the bride and groom would have different hamam preparations and festivities.

Even now, mixed baths may only be seen in tourist destinations in Turkey. Turkish baths have traditionally been divided into two sections for women and men, either located in separate buildings or available to women and men at different hours. Only women work in the women’s area and males in the men’s section.

Traditional Turkish baths can be found in most of Afyon’s thermal spa hotels, where you can experience the age-old rituals of ‘kese,’ or washing down with a rough cloth to remove dead skin, and a relaxing ‘köpük,’ foam massage using the froth of a traditional block of olive oil soap. You’ll surely be gleaming when you’re done!

Additional things to see and do in Afyon

Historical Mosques in Afyon

The Ulu Cami in Afyon is the city’s oldest structure and a magnificent example of a Seljuk mosque. It was erected between 1272 and 1277 and is one of Anatolia’s earliest examples of its kind. Its original wooden roof and carved wooden pillars are stunning, earning the nickname “Mosque of Forty Pillars.”

The Mevlevihane, the 2nd most important Mevlevi lodge after Konya, was built in the 1300s by the religious order known as the ‘whirling dervishes’ and is located in Afyon. The Mevlevi (Türbe) Camii are a part of this structure. Sultan Abdül Hamit II ordered the mosque to be rebuilt in 1908. The graves of Mevlana’s grandsons are housed in its mausoleum. The Mevlevihane museum, located just across from the mosque, tells the narrative of the Mevlevi in Afyon.

Another remarkable mosque is the Imaret Cami, also known as the Gedik Ahmet Pasha Mosque after the Grand Vizier, who ordered its building in 1472. The Seljuk style is characterized by its stunning blue-tiled, fluted minaret. In 1795, it was significantly restored.

Afyon’s Phrygian Valley

The Phrygians arrived in Anatolia around 1200 BC. They ruled the region between the Kizilirmak and Sakarya rivers from the 9th century, with Gordion as their governmental capital and Pessinus as their religious centre. Even though the word “Phrygian” may be unknown, many myths related to this ancient civilization are well-known, such as the legend of the Gordian Knot or King Midas and his golden touch. The Phrygian Valley stretches through the provinces of Afyon, Eskişehir, and Kütahya, as well as the neighbouring areas of Eskişehir and Kütahya. With its unusual volcanic rock formations, the region is reminiscent of Cappadocia. Similar cave homes may also be found in Ayazini Köyü.

The best way to see the sights is to walk or hire a bicycle along the Phrygian Way, one of Turkey’s longest hiking trails at around 300 miles (500 kilometres).

Midas Sehri (City of Midas) located 70 kilometres north of Afyon in the town of Yazilikaya, which means “rock with writing,” is one of the essential Phrygian sites in the area. The goddess Cybele is worshipped in the 6th century BC Temple to Mita, a 17-meter-high carved rock wall.

There’s also a museum and a rock-cut monastery. At Küçük Yazilikaya, there is a smaller temple.

Aslantaş (‘lion stone’), which stands 11 metres tall and portrays two lions standing on their hind legs, and Yilantaş (‘snake stone’), which, despite its name (which may have come from its broken pieces lying on the ground), also depicts lions, are two of the most famous monumental rock tombs.

Shopping in Afyon

There are several shopping malls and markets where you may get a good deal, like the Afium Outlet Shopping Center, where you can buy various clothing from factory outlet malls. Electronics, clothing, shoes, purses, and toys, to mention a few, are all available for purchase, exactly as you’d expect from a mall. So, take advantage of the chance to pick up a deal or two!

Getting to Afyon

Afyon is reasonably easy to reach by car or rail due to its strategic location; the Izmir-Ankara and Istanbul-Konya train routes stop at Afyon. Kütahya (60 km) and Uşak (102 km) are the closest airports that can reach domestic flights from Istanbul.

Suppose you are keen to see the capital city of thermal Spa, Ancient Ruins, hot air ballooning and much more. Apply for a turkey e visa right away from turkeyvisaonline.com and enjoy one of the memorable trips.

Istanbul is a big metropolis. There is just too much to see and do in this city for a single vacation, and no matter how swiftly you think you can go around and visit the key sights, you’ll still miss out on numerous things on your must-do list. So, apply for a turkey visa online and book your flights now.

This is a city with more history than anywhere else on the planet. The Ottoman Empire was based here for centuries, fighting war after war and battle after battle, once part of Greece and known as Constantinople.

The streets have remnants of the past, and the buildings are dripping with history. It’s a beautiful blend of old and modern that you won’t find anywhere else. Istanbul is also the world’s only metropolis that spans two continents, with half in Asia and the other in Europe, separated by the massive Bosphorus Strait, which is considered one of the world’s most dangerous shopping lanes due to its endless twists and turns.

You’ll need a strategy to make the most of your time in Istanbul. It would be great if you also accepted the truth that you would never be able to see everything on this planet. Some individuals visit Istanbul regularly and yet haven’t seen everything!

Here are ten sites and activities that should be on your bucket list with that in mind. You can continue your investigation if you have extra time (unlikely).

Get started on your vacation by applying for a turkey e visa from turkeyvisaonline.com.

Blue Mosque

Sultanahmet is Istanbul’s historic district, and it is here that you’ll discover many of the city’s most important historical sites.

The Blue Mosque is an iconic structure and one of the most magnificent structures you’ll ever see. The mosque, built-in 1609, features six minarets, while most mosques have two or four. The interior design will surely take your breath away.

The Blue Mosque, on the other hand, is a working mosque and so a site of worship. This means you must follow mosque protocol and be polite to those worshipping inside. Never go in front of or across someone who is praying. Always keep your shoulders and legs covered and dress appropriately. Everyone must remove their shoes, and ladies must cover their heads upon entering the building.

The mosque is closed during worship hours, which is especially true on Fridays when it is the Muslim holy day. It is free to enter. However, donations are always welcomed and will go toward the upkeep of this magnificent and historically significant structure.

Hagia Sofia

You should go to Hagia Sofia next if you’ve already seen the Blue Mosque. Sultanahmet, another must-see Istanbul attraction, lies right across the street and was initially established as a church in 537AD. When the Ottomans conquered the city, they converted Hagia Sofia into a mosque. It operates as a gathering place for people of all faiths, with relics and monuments from both religions on display. The museum is just fantastic, and it is a charming site to visit.

The only downside is that it may become pretty crowded, and the line to get in can be rather lengthy. The entrance fee is roughly 70TL, which grants you access to the whole structure. You won’t be able to use your photography camera flash in some areas, so follow both English and Turkish instructions.

Galataport, Karakoy

Galataport has only been open for a year, yet it is already a popular tourist destination. In reality, you should plan to spend at least half a day here, preferably a whole day, if you want to have dinner.

Galataport is a rapidly expanding waterside entertainment centre. With spectacular views of the Bosphorus, which is lapping at the centre’s borders, you can watch the sunset and take some beautiful photos. Aside from that, there is a range of shops, cafés, pubs, and restaurants, including the owner of Nus’ret’s new Salt Bae restaurant.

Ortakoy Mosque And Bosphorus Bridge

On its own, the massive Bosphorus Bridge is an astounding and imposing sight, but just next to it sits one of the most wonderfully gorgeous mosques you’ll ever see. It’s a literal old versus modern picture that you’ve probably seen on websites and photographs worldwide, and it’s located in Ortakoy/Besiktas. Try to get a photo of the well-known landmark for your collection.

There are several cafés and restaurants and a Starbucks along the water’s edge of this popular tourist destination in Istanbul. You may sit outdoors with a cup of coffee and watch the seagulls circling, and the huge ships pass by.

If you wish to visit the mosque, which was built in 1856, keep in mind that it is a working mosque. Therefore you must observe mosque etiquette, as we stated previously while discussing the Blue Mosque.

Tea Overlooking Europe

Travelling to the Asian side of Istanbul and sitting on the sea in Uskudar is one of the most popular low-cost activities.

You may get a glass of Turkish tea (cay) and rest on the couches while viewing the beautiful sunset over Europe’s Golden Horn. It’s a wonderfully refreshing experience that will allow you to appreciate the true beauty of this city.

If you want a more laid-back nightlife scene, this region has everything.

Walls Of Constantinople

The Walls of Constantinople are another old fortress and an exciting spot to see in Istanbul. After Constantine the Great made Constantinople the Roman Empire’s new capital in the 4th century AD, these massive defensive walls were built.

The final extensive fortification system built during Antiquity was Constantinople’s Walls. There are still some of the most critical and essential methods of fortifying walls and towers. The Theodosian Walls, a famous double defensive wall that formerly surrounded the city on land and the coast, were necessary to the system.

Although the majority of this once-dominant system has since vanished, parts of it remain. In reality, parts of the Istanbul City Walls may be walked on! This is possible on self-directed tours as well as guided ones. This is one of the top things to do in Istanbul, Turkey, to learn more about the city’s rich and ancient history.

Sea Taxis

Sea taxis are one of the most recent additions to Istanbul’s transportation options. They’ve been out of commission for over a decade, but they’re back in action now. These sea taxis can take you anyplace there is a beach.

They can anchor practically anywhere, negating the need for more port space and allowing for virtually complete itineraries. This is an excellent option to visit the Bosphorus Strait, the Marmara Sea, the Black Sea, and the Golden Horn on your own time.

There are more than a dozen of the top experiences and sights in Istanbul that you must see, but the story is far from over because Istanbul still has much more to offer!

So, are you ready to take your lover to these Istanbul tourist attractions? Make your holiday a romantic and magical escape by applying for a Turkish visa online and planning a trip to Istanbul.