Are you ready to plan your next adventure? I have an irresistible one for you. Spending summer on holidays to Turkey is the best destination for fantastic beaches, ancient history, and exciting resort cities. Prepare to step into a magical new world.

The magic of Istanbul

Chances are, you’ll start your journey in Turkey’s most famous city. There’s an abundance of sights to see in Istanbul, but here are four that you absolutely must include on your itinerary: the Blue Mosque, with its 260 windows and six stunning minarets; the Topkapi Palace, which happens to be, not only the world’s oldest palace, but its largest one, too; the Hippodrome and its accompanying 3,500-year-old Egyptian Obelisk; and the Basilica Cistern.

Old statue pillar in the Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, Turkey. Photo courtesy of Talia Klundt

For smells, tastes, sounds and craftsmanship you’ve never seen before, head to the Grand Bazaar, which has been running continuously since the 14th century. There are no fewer than 58 streets and more than 4,000 different stalls.

Ancient ruins and Turkish architecture

Even if you don’t know the first thing about architecture – Turkish or otherwise – you won’t be able to help being awe-inspired by a visit to the Ruins of Ani. Back in the day, this eerily quiet site was Armenia’s bustling capital, which 100,000 people called home. Now, however, all that remains are crumbling stone ruins, strewn as far as the eye can see across bright green grass, and a gently meandering river.

Ephesus should also be high on the list while travelling to Turkey, especially for a traveller with even a vague interest in history. Of all the excavations of classical civilisations in Europe, it’s the one that’s nearest to complete. The amazing thing is that 82% of the city still remains underground.

Ephesus. Photo courtesy of Sarah Nelson

Getting close to nature

For walking enthusiasts, the Lycian Way is undoubtedly alluring. Often listed as one of the best walks in the world, it stretches for 500 kilometres. To tackle it all in one go, you’d need to be exceptionally fit (and passionate!), but it’s easy enough to do it in sections. Expect ancient ruins, charming villages, breathtaking coastlines, and forests, mostly of the cedar and pine varieties.