The Vacation Turkey To-Do List

Turkey is one of the most popular holiday destinations amongst Mediterranean countries, as it’s both affordable and home to an eclectic mix of frenetic city life, historical sites, natural wonders, and luxurious amenities.

Anyone headed for holiday to Turkey, whether it be backpacking through the country or staying in one of the many fine all inclusive resorts, will soon discover a place that is quite unlike any other in the world. For those planning their ultimate Turkey get-away, here are a few important sights and dishes that you’ll not want to miss along your way.

✔ Explore the Hagia Sophia

Istanbul, the capital of Turkey, is home to many iconic sites, but none encapsulate the long history and beauty of the country quite like the Hagia Sophia, which has been a religious site of pilgrimage since the year 537.

Having passed back and forth between Greek Orthodox, Catholic, and Muslim hands over the years, it was made a secularized museum in 1935, and attracts millions of visitors each year.

✔ See the Archaeological Site of Troy

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This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the ancient city of Troy, which was famously sacked by Spartan and Achaean warriors during a siege in 12^th or 13^th century BC, and made immortal through the lines of Homer’s epic poem, “The Iliad”.

Today visitors can walk amongst the ruins of this once great city, and anyone with an interest in history will be amazed by the stunning offerings of this site.

✔ Try Lahmacun

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To taste one of Turkey’s most beloved foods, be sure to pick up a Lahmacun from a local restaurant or street vendor. This pizza like dish is made from a flaky dough and topped with finely minced meat, onions, and a tasty mix of spices, then garnished with tomatoes, lettuce, parsley or rocket.

✔ Order Pilaf

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Pilaf is one of the staples of Turkish cuisine, and there are a variety of different ones available, but the local favourite tends to be sade pilaf. This dish consists of rice cooked in water with butter and vegetable oil, and small noodle like pasta pieces call sehriye.

They can be served up with a number of veggies and meats, including aubergine, chickpeas, and beef, and are seasoned with cinnamon, pepper, thyme, and cumin.

✔ Relax in Kabak Bay, Ölüdeniz

If you’re after a little beach time during your trip to Turkey than there are few sandy spots that are more impressive than Kabak Bay.

The shabby-chic vibe of this spot is not only secluded and uncluttered, but the azure waters and soft sand are overlooked by craggy cliffs and trees, including a nearby olive grove.

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