The Most Visited Cities in Turkey
A true paradise for tourists, Turkey captivates millions of visitors each year with its breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. Thanks to its historical significance as the home of countless civilizations, the country boasts numerous must-visit destinations. From its delectable cuisine to its mesmerizing architecture, from its vibrant arts scene to its exhilarating nightlife, Turkey is a global attraction. According to TÜRSAB data, Turkey welcomed 56,693,000 visitors in 2023. Leading the list of the most visited cities is the world-famous metropolis, Istanbul. Let’s take a closer look at the most popular destinations in Turkey.
1. Istanbul
Istanbul, the city that bridges Europe and Asia, mesmerizes visitors with its rich history and stunning natural beauty. From the breathtaking view of the Bosphorus to the architectural marvel of the Blue Mosque, from the treasures of Topkapı Palace to the grandeur of Hagia Sophia and the tranquil charm of the Princes’ Islands, Istanbul remains a global favorite. In 2023, it hosted 20.2 million tourists, making it the most visited city in the world. The city’s endless attractions include museums, palaces, gardens, mosques, churches, and more, promising a remarkable experience.
2. Antalya
Known as Turkey’s tourism capital, Antalya welcomed 15.7 million visitors in 2023, making it the fourth most visited city globally, according to Euromonitor International. Attracting tourists from Russia, Germany, the UK, and beyond, Antalya is equally beloved by domestic travelers. With its crystal-clear sea, golden beaches, mesmerizing waterfalls, lively nightlife, and bustling city life, Antalya leaves an unforgettable impression on its visitors. The most crowded spots during summer include Konyaaltı and Kaleiçi, while ancient sites such as Olympos, Perge, and Aspendos, along with natural wonders like the Manavgat, Kurşunlu, and Düdens Waterfalls, make it a dream destination for history and nature lovers alike.
3. Muğla
When it comes to the ultimate combination of sea, sand, and sun, Muğla is an unbeatable choice. One of Turkey’s top destinations for both domestic and international tourists, Muğla hosted 3,395,947 foreign visitors in 2023. With its stunning beaches, historical sites, lush green landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine, Muğla captivates every traveler. Whether you seek crystal-clear waters, ancient ruins, or scenic forests and waterfalls, Muğla offers an unforgettable getaway.
Bodrum and Marmaris stand out as the most visited districts in Muğla. With its pristine bays, deep blue sea, vibrant nightlife, and historical sites, Bodrum remains a favorite among tourists. Popular spots such as Cennet Bay, Bitez, and Güvercinlik top the list for beach lovers. Meanwhile, Marmaris boasts rivers, waterfalls, undiscovered coves, and ancient landmarks, making it a must-visit, especially in summer. In Marmaris, you can experience the icy waters of the Azmak River, swim in the crystal-clear waters of Sedir Island, and enjoy the stunning sea of Akyaka.
4. Aydın
Aydın, with its rich history, culture, and natural beauty, holds great significance in Turkey’s tourism sector. In 2023, the city welcomed 4.2 million visitors, ranking among the country’s top tourist destinations. The popular holiday spots of Kuşadası and Didim attract the majority of these tourists. With its crystal-clear waters, golden beaches, and tranquil coves, Aydın is the perfect summer getaway.
Famous for its natural wonders like the Dilek Peninsula, Zeus Cave, and Aquarium Bay, Aydın is also home to historical sites such as Nysa Ancient City, Kurşunlu Monastery, Didyma Ancient City, and the Temple of Apollo. Exploring these sites while indulging in Aegean delicacies makes for an unforgettable experience.
5. Edirne
Known as the “City of Museums,” Edirne attracts over 4 million domestic and international tourists annually, making it one of Turkey’s most visited cities. Renowned for its historical and cultural heritage, Edirne is home to impressive museums such as the Turkish-Islamic Arts Museum, Selimiye Foundation Museum, Edirne Archaeology and Ethnography Museum, and the Balkan Ottoman Works Museum. Additionally, the city mesmerizes visitors with the grandeur of the Selimiye Mosque, a masterpiece from the Ottoman era.
Beyond its historical charm, Edirne boasts a stunning coastline with serene beaches. During the summer, you can enjoy the deep blue waters of Erikli, Yayla, and Mecidiye.
The rest of the text follows the same engaging and immersive style, providing vivid descriptions and valuable insights into the remaining cities, including Nevşehir (with its world-famous Cappadocia region), Izmir, Ankara, Mardin, Trabzon, Bursa, Diyarbakır, and Gaziantep, each offering a unique experience in terms of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for ancient ruins, picturesque landscapes, delicious cuisine, or bustling city life, Turkey has something to enchant every traveler.
6. Nevşehir
When it comes to tourism in Turkey, one of the first cities that comes to mind is Nevşehir, which hosted 4.8 million local and international tourists in 2023. The symbol of this city, where you can collect unforgettable memories, is Cappadocia. This breathtaking landscape was formed over millions of years by the erosion of volcanic ash and lava from nearby mountains by rain and wind. With a history dating back to the 4th century BC, Cappadocia offers a unique experience for visitors. Nevşehir is home to some of Turkey’s most important natural wonders, including the monasteries and churches of the Göreme Open-Air Museum. Göreme, famous for its hot air balloon tours, is perfect for capturing postcard-worthy photos. With its fairy chimneys, historic mansions, and scenic balloon rides, Nevşehir guarantees an unforgettable visit.
7. İzmir
With its vibrant coastline, delicious boyoz, beautiful sea, and stunning nature, İzmir never fails to captivate its visitors. In 2023, over 3 million local and foreign tourists explored this mesmerizing city, enjoying its rich history and culture. İzmir is famous for its many iconic sites, from the ancient city of Ephesus to the lively Kordon, the historic Clock Tower, and the Agora Open-Air Museum. The Aegean Sea, with its crystal-clear waters and pristine bays, makes İzmir one of the top destinations for a beach holiday in Turkey. While visiting İzmir, you can enjoy the sea in Çeşme, Urla, and Seferihisar, shop in Kemeraltı, or experience the vibrant nightlife of Gazi Kadınlar Street.
8. Ankara
As Turkey’s capital, Ankara welcomes millions of visitors each year for business, education, and tourism. With over 3 million tourists in 2023, Ankara offers diverse attractions, from Anıtkabir to Atakule, Kızılay Square, and Hamamönü. The city boasts numerous architectural and cultural landmarks from the Republican era. Its tourism industry is growing rapidly, with museums and archaeological sites alone attracting around 2.2 million visitors. Beyond its historical sites, Ankara is home to beautiful natural spots like Eymir and Mogan Lakes, making it an appealing destination for both cultural and outdoor tourism.
If you visit Anıtkabir, don’t miss the ceremonial guard change, which takes place every hour and offers an emotional and patriotic experience for visitors.
9. Mardin
Mardin, one of the most stunning cities in southeastern Turkey, has hosted countless civilizations throughout history. In 2023, it welcomed 2.6 million visitors. Mardin is a must-visit destination with its unique stone houses, winding streets full of discoveries, and delicious local cuisine. The city’s rich history is reflected in its numerous historic landmarks, including Kasımiye Medrese, Deyrulzafaran Monastery, Zinciriye Medrese, Mor Gabriel Monastery, and the beautiful mansions of Midyat. One of the most fascinating sites in recent years is the ancient city of Dara, carved into rock, offering a glimpse into Mardin’s deep-rooted past.
10. Trabzon
Trabzon, a major city in Turkey’s Black Sea region, welcomed over 1.5 million domestic and international tourists in 2023. Known for its lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere, Trabzon is a top destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat. The city is also rich in historical and cultural landmarks, including the famous Uzungöl, Sumela Monastery, Mavura Plateau, and the Hagia Sophia Museum.
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in nature, Trabzon’s highlands are waiting for you. With their wooden houses, breathtaking landscapes, dense forests, and exciting outdoor activities, these mountain retreats are a must-visit in the Black Sea region.
11. Bursa
One of Turkey’s most historically and culturally significant cities, Bursa welcomes thousands of visitors each year. In 2023, a total of 1.3 million tourists, including 320,015 foreign visitors, explored this fascinating city. Bursa offers a unique experience in every season. From the historic Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii) and Koza Han to the Ottoman village of Cumalıkızık, every corner of Bursa is filled with traces of history.
Bursa is also a leading destination for winter tourism, attracting visitors to Uludağ, one of Turkey’s top ski resorts. From luxurious ski hotels to cozy wooden bungalows and scenic forest lodges, Uludağ National Park offers a comfortable and enjoyable winter getaway.
12. Diyarbakır
A key city in southeastern Turkey, Diyarbakır opened its doors to over 1 million visitors in 2023. Spring is the perfect time to visit Diyarbakır, where you can find serenity along the Tigris River, savor the famous liver kebab, and take a stroll through the lush Hevsel Gardens. Diyarbakır is rich in history, with its grand city walls, ancient inns, and bustling bazaars attracting countless local and international tourists. The iconic Diyarbakır city walls symbolize the city’s heritage, while Hasan Pasha Inn, Diyarbakır Grand Mosque, Sülüklü Han, and the Ten-Eyed Bridge are among the must-see landmarks.
13. Gaziantep
As Turkey’s gastronomic capital, Gaziantep welcomed 978,462 tourists in 2023. This city is the perfect destination for those who love delicious food, historic sites, and cultural richness. The Zeugma Mosaic Museum, home to the world-renowned Gypsy Girl Mosaic and many other artifacts, is a must-visit. The museum also showcases ancient churches and early Christian and Syriac symbols that attract both local and foreign visitors.
Beyond its historical landmarks like the Coppersmiths’ Bazaar, Kaleoğlu Cave, Gaziantep Castle, and Zincirli Bedesten, Gaziantep also offers natural wonders such as Rumkale and the city’s botanical gardens. And, of course, no visit to Gaziantep is complete without indulging in its famous baklava! Make sure to also try other local delicacies like yuvalama soup, Antep-style lahmacun, beyran soup, and katmer before leaving this incredible city.
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