Istanbul, Bursa, Izmir, Antalya, Adana, Urfa, Cappidoccia....I love Turkey.
Sections
5
Istanbul..The city of opportunities!
Cappadocia
Urfa...a holy city.
Butterfly Valley
Bursa the first capital city of the Ottoman Empire.
Istanbul..The city of opportunities!
There's something about Istanbul that makes it unique. It's not pristine like Zurich. It's got good, bad and the ugly.
Turkey has been going through changes so it's important to read 2026 travel updates.
Dolmabahce Palace (2026) - All You MUST Know Before You Go (with Reviews)
I tried everything on this list but the grilled lamb intestines. If you're adventurous, go for it.
13 Authentic Dishes You Must Try When Exploring Istanbul
My favorite on this list is the bazaar. There's so much to see, feel and taste. Make sure you have excellent walking shoes when you visit.
ELLE Escapes: Istanbul
Man, Istanbul is chaotic, beautiful, bustling, historic and full of tourists. You'll love visiting!
Istanbul | History, Population, Map, & Facts | Britannica
Cappadocia
From Instanbul, take an overnight bus to Cappadocia. The ride takes 12 hours or so with one or two stops. In the morning, you can check into your hotel and nap! Then go out in the late afternoon and explore.
I loved every moment in Cappadocia. I stayed in an underground rock hotel. Are amazing food, took some great pictures and learned so much about the place.
Cappadocia: All You Must Know Before You Go (2026) - Tripadvisor
Something beautiful came out of the Christians being persecuted. The underground homes and cities are truly beautiful and spectacular.
History of Cappadocia - Tourism in Cappadocia and Urgup | Kayakapi Premium Caves - Cappadocia | Luxury Boutique Cave Hotel
Urfa...a holy city.
Islam is a peaceful religion and you'll feel it here in the spiritual city of Urfa.
I loved Urfa because I felt the spirituality around from the cave where Abraham was born to the hospitality of the city. I'll go back any day.
Top Things To Do In Urfa (Sanliurfa), Turkiye: How To Explore One Of The World's Most Important Historic Centers - Wandering Wagars
In addition to the city being holy, it's home to amazing spices and Urfa Kabob.
Sanliurfa (Urfa) in Turkey : City of Abraham : Turkish Travel Blog
Butterfly Valley
Go back in time to Butterfly Valley without electricity. Enjoy bonne fires, pristine beach, intimate conversations and delicious food.
I'm definitely planning on taking my kids here one day. The beach is pristine, the hikes are gorgeous and the stars are spectacular.
Butterfly Valley (2026) - All You MUST Know Before You Go (with Reviews & Photos)
The boat ride to Butterfly Valley might make you sea sick 🤕 Bring some motion sickness pill.
A paradise protected by butterflies
Bursa the first capital city of the Ottoman Empire.
Bursa was the first capital city of the Ottoman Empire and it's full of incredible history. The people are conservative so please dress accordingly.
Bursa and Cumalıkızık: the Birth of the Ottoman Empire