Cappadocia
Cappadocia, a region carved by the whims of nature and human ingenuity, is a surreal landscape that defies conventional description. Nestled in central Türkiye, this otherworldly destination is a living testament to the extraordinary power of geology, history and culture intertwining to create a spectacle unlike any other.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Cappadocia has a landscape that almost looks alien. Soft tooths of rock spewed from volcanoes millennia ago bestowed upon us the Peri Bacaları or ‘Fairy Chimneys’. The best way to experience the landscape is from the air. As dawn breaks, the sky becomes a canvas painted with the silhouettes of hot air balloons. Hundreds of these vibrant vessels float serenely above the unique topography, providing an unparalleled vantage point. Nature may have given us this landscape, but it was ancient civilisations that adapted it for their own purposes.
On the ground, the charm of Cappadocia reveals itself through its cave dwellings and underground cities. These historical sanctuaries, carved directly into the soft volcanic rock, are a testament to the early Christian communities who sought refuge here. Venturing into the underground cities like Derinkuyu, one cannot help but marvel at the ingenuity of their builders. These subterranean labyrinths, descending multiple levels into the earth, were designed to shelter thousands of people from invaders. Complete with living quarters, kitchens and even wineries, these cities are a remarkable feat of engineering and resilience. What was once a place of refuge, now a tourist attraction.
Cappadocia is not merely a relic of times gone by, it is a vibrant, living region that continues to enchant visitors with its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Its residents are keen to show off Cappadocian culture with bustling markets, artisan workshops and warm hospitality. It’s easy to see how the landscape has shaped the people, and over the centuries they have shaped it back.
The region’s name is derived from the Persian word katpatuka, meaning ‘the land of beautiful horses’. While the hot air balloons show the spectacle of the terrain, horses are the best guides to lead you through it.
Cappadocia is more than just a destination, it is a journey through history. A place where the earth’s raw power meets human creativity, it invites you to lose yourself in its mystique, to discover the stories etched into its ancient rocks, and to experience the magic that makes it a truly unforgettable part of the world
Izmir and Western Türkiye
Izmir is known as the Pearl of the Aegean. The ancient port is Türkiye’s third largest city and people have been settling by its shore for around 8,000 years. This is a region steeped in history, bursting with vibrant culture, and blessed with some of the most stunning landscapes.
The city is a smörgåsbord of religions and has long been a melting pot of cultures. The Agora, right in the heart of the city, harks back to Roman times, offering a glimpse into the city’s storied past. The iconic Clock Tower, a symbol of Izmir, stands proudly in Konak Square, where the old and the new blend seamlessly. But it’s not just history that defines Izmir, it’s the youthful energy and progressive spirit that make it one of Türkiye’s most dynamic cities.
A short drive away lies the historic city of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved classical cities in the world. Excavations have revealed grand monuments of the Roman Imperial period including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre, but little remains of the famous Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
When I visited as part of Quest’s World of Wonder, I also ventured to the charming village of Şirince, famous for its grapevines and olive oil. With charming architecture and stunning views, it’s a place where time seems to slow down, inviting you to relax and savour the simple pleasures. And further along the coast lies the hidden gem of Alaçati and its heavenly thermal pools of Pamukkale. The name literally translates to ‘cotton castle’ because the pools can be mistaken for angelic clouds if you’re looking at the right angle.
Western Türkiye is an area of contrasts and harmony, where ancient ruins sit alongside thriving modern cities, and the natural beauty is as compelling as the cultural heritage. Visiting Izmir and the west gave me a fresh perspective on Türkiye, and I found a region brimming with unexpected enchantments.
Antalya and the Turkish Riviera
In many ways, Antalya is the hidden jewel of the Mediterranean. Renowned for its stunning beaches and azure waters, this vibrant city is the gateway to the Turkish Riviera.
Bathed in sunlight and baked in history, Antalya was settled by the Greeks, ruled by the Romans, and expanded under the Ottomans. Today’s visitors are cosmopolitan, from all over the world. Kaleiçi, the enchanting old town, invites you to lose yourself in a labyrinth of narrow, cobblestone streets lined with charming Ottoman-era houses and boutique hotels. The old town’s marina, bursting with life, is a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, offering picturesque views of the ocean.
Venture out into the villages that dot the surrounding peaks, and you’ll find hills and forests awash with locally grown and lovingly handmade goods. Summertime is the perfect time to explore the Turkish Riviera and experience the tastes and traditions that lie beyond the beaches. Culinary delights await at every corner, from traditional Turkish mezzes to fresh Mediterranean seafood.
From the ancient to the all-inclusive, Türkiye’s coastline takes things to new heights. Bodrum is a town where history collides spectacularly with modern allure. Its bustling marina, brimming with superyachts, pulsates with the energy of sophisticated chic. Trendy boutiques and cool cafés line the waterfront, offering a taste of modern luxury amidst ancient ruins.
Just a short drive from Antalya, you’ll find the ancient city of Perge. Walking among the ruins, with its impressive Hellenistic-Roman gate and towering columns, you can almost hear the whispers of antiquity. The site’s grandeur speaks to the civilisation that once thrived here, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
The Turkish Riviera is not just about sun and sea, it’s a destination where luxury meets history in a combination that’s astounding in its beauty. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, enjoying a sunset cruise, or simply lounging on a beautiful beach, this region offers an unforgettable blend of relaxation and adventure.
Istanbul
Istanbul is uniquely poised across the European and Asian continents, an iconic Turkish city that engages all the senses while offering up places of quiet beauty. When you arrive in Istanbul, you’d be wise to leave behind your preconceived notions and ideas. The giant metropolis has been renewed, refreshed and rebuilt.
Istanbul is not merely a city, it’s a living museum. An intricate tapestry woven with threads of history, culture and modernity. Here, the echoes of the Byzantine Empire mingle with the grandeur of the Ottoman sultans, creating a narrative that’s as complex as it is captivating.
As you wander through the bustling streets of Sultanahmet, the air is thick with the scent of freshly baked simit and roasting chestnuts. The juxtaposition of the Hagia Sophia’s colossal domes against the city’s skyline is a reminder of the city’s role as the crossroads of civilisations, where East meets West in a glorious cacophony of sights and sounds.
The Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, is a sensory overload. The tangled corridors are lined with shops peddling everything from intricate carpets and sparkling jewellery to fragrant spices and ornate lanterns. Haggling is an art form here, and the cacophony of vendors’ voices creates a symphony of commerce that is as timeless as the city itself. As Turkish actor and screenwriter Gülse Birsel told me on one visit: “This city is a little bit like New York, with a more human touch. We have our very joyful chaos here.”
A Bosphorus cruise offers a serene contrast to the urban hustle, providing panoramic views of opulent palaces, antique fortresses and charming waterside mansions. The aroma of freshly brewed Turkish coffee wafts through the air, mingling with the buzz of conversations in multiple languages, a testament to Istanbul’s status as a global city.
In Istanbul, every corner turned, every street wandered, reveals a new layer of its rich, multifaceted identity. It is a city that demands exploration, entices with its mysteries, and rewards with its unparalleled blend of tradition and innovation. Indeed, Istanbul is not just a city you visit, it is a city you experience in all its chaotic and unforgettable glory.
