Turkey is the famed land where civilization took birth in the Anatolian peninsula in the distant past. The name transports us back to the medieval days with the Sultanates and their magnificent palaces. A transcontinental nation that marks its presence in Europe and Asia alike is located in West Asia.
The country is a tourist’s delight with several versatile attractions. A land with historical monuments and architecture at every step. The delicious kebabs and other delightful cuisines. The beautiful landscape of this amazing country is dotted with hills and mountains and vast sandy beaches spread over the 8000 km coastline, Turkey is home to the spiritual Sufi culture and also the medieval splendour of hammams or Turkish baths. Book Turkey tour packagesto explore this intriguing destination that showcases a lively mix of the past and the present.
Here is a peek into the numerous things to see and do in Turkey.
Explore the past: Tourists on their visit to Turkey cannot avoid history. The place that has survived through extensive effects of the past spanning centuries will have great wonders to show off. Witness the fascinating land through Turkey tour packages in your trail of history.
- The Blue Mosque– A masterpiece of Ottoman architecture is the Blue Mosque officially known as the Sultan Ahmed mosque in Istanbul. It is a magnificent structure that displays the brilliant architecture of medieval times. Built to show the greatness of the Ottomans, this mosque truly is grandeur. Shaped with a central dome with four other semi-domes, the architectural balance is achieved in form of the six minarets on its sides. Equally stunning blue tile work and stained glass windows make up the interior. A guided tour of this mosque can be booked with the Turkey tour packages from India. They take the visitors through the many stories behind the construction of this mosque.
- The Hagia Sophia– Another grand structure in Istanbul is the Hagia Sophia. Once upon a time, it was a Greek orthodox church later transformed into a mosque by the Ottomans in the medieval period. The structure stands witness to the Byzantine and Ottoman period time travel all under a single dome. Turkey tour packages cover this iconic structure without fail. The mosque has its past to tell. When it was converted into a mosque, several frescoes and mosaics of Christian influences were plastered over them. The Hagia Sophia was again turned into a museum by the Turkish Republic in the 20th century. Now once again a mosque, this architectural wonder is a must-visit in Turkey.
- Topkapi Palace– The official residence and administrative quarter of the Ottoman Sultans was the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul. Overlooking the Bosphorus, this palace holds many stories of its residents, the Sultans, the harem concubines, the guards and all who ventured here. Move through the first and the middle gate arena. It passes through the courtyard of the parade followed by the residential sector. To one side of this area is the imperial kitchen and the other part has the units where the imperial council met. The harem and its pavilions are worth a visit at this palace. It requires a separate ticket. Visit the museum at the Topkapi palace only to be awe-struck by the jewels that adorned the royalty. The magnificent lives of the Ottomans can be seen at this palace.
- Troy– The archaeological site of Troy is most well-known for the Trojan war as described in the classic Homer’s Iliad. Situated in northwestern Turkey at Canakkale, this place calls for a visit by the history buffs. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site worth the time investment. These tours are on the itinerary of the Turkey tour packages.
On a cultural tour of Turkey- The land of the Sultans, Turkey is famous for its cultural aspects. A tour is incomplete unless you see the spiritual Sufi dance of the Dervishes. Do witness the Mevlevi Sema ceremony at Hodjapasha in Istanbul. Their circling movements make you wonder at the trance-like state they are in. This live show of an hour duration comes with Turkey tour packages that showcase the Sufi rituals ingrained in the spiritual nature of this place.
Shopping spree– Do not miss out on the Grand Bazar tour in Turkey. Many a profession comes alive in one of the oldest covered markets in Istanbul. Bargain at your best while buying some of the Ottoman-style jewellery, hand-woven textiles, and Turkish carpets from all around Turkey at this vast market of over 4000 shops.
Enchanting Activities– A trip to Tukey has to include a few activities that bring joy to any traveller. Some of them are undoubtedly the walk on the crossover bridge from Asia to Europe over the Bosphorus. There are other activities too listed below.
Hot Air Balloon- Ride on the Hot air balloon to see the ariel view of the rock towers, and pillars at Cappadocia in the Nevsehir province in Central Anatolia. The landscape is unique with the numerous conical eroded rock structures formed via the geological process. They are also called fair chimneys. The Hot air balloon rides are in the early mornings and you can see the sunrise on the horizon as you soar high in the air. Get the most of the panoramic view from this high point of the amazing landscape beneath.
Bosphorus cruise- An exciting activity would be to take the Bosphorus cruise at sunset booked through Turkey tour packages. The cruise is relaxing and looks over the river-side view of the Dolambache palace, the Rumeli fortress and the Ortakoy mosque. The lit-up structures at dusk are a spectacular sight. Soak yourself in this transcontinental cruise and cherish its memories.
A note to end
Turkey is an awesome place to visit. Mainly for its history, architecture, landscape and amazing people. Istanbul and Ankara are not the only places to visit. There is more for exploring and seeing to take up. You are bound to revisit this amazing place and discover more.
Source : Expat Guide Turkey
