Turkey Attractions

The major tourists’ attractions in Turkey have all been responsible for making Turkey into a major tourist destination for travelers worldwide. QuickBooker.com has attempted to compile a list of all major tourist attractions in Turkey to be able to provide some information to tourists which just might come in handy during their visit.

The impressive structure is famous for its size as it is for the remarkable architecture whose beautiful mosaics and frescoes will not leave anyone disappointed. It is today one of the most popular attractions in Istanbul. In the 6th century it was actually commissioned as a cathedral and remained the most important church for over 900 years. It was converted into a mosque in the 15th century by Mehmet II who conquered the city and after converting it into a mosque added minarets and fountains. It was in 1934 that Ataturk, the most secular leaders of Turkey declared it into a museum. The vast interiors with a huge soaring dome are extraordinary.

The mosque with tiers of magnificent domes and six graceful minarets is a striking distinguishable structure to dot Istanbul’s skyline adding charm and grace to the major tourists’ attractions in Turkey. Though it was constructed as an Islamic rival to the Hagia Sophia in 1609 it is a fine example of Ottoman architecture. One still sees hundreds of worshippers using the mosque. The special feature which gives the mosque its name is the interiors decorated with thousands of blue and white Iznik tiles. The attraction is these tiles are embellished with traditional Ottoman flower patterns. The design, soaring columns, and 260 stained glass windows are sure to leave a lasting impression on the viewer.

Mehmet the Conqueror built this massive structure consisting of numerous buildings focused around interconnecting courtyards as a Sultan’s Palace. The building has a magnificent location atop one of the seven hills of Istanbul and offers uninterrupted views over the Bosphorous River and the Golden Horn. It has served as a royal residence, harem, state administration and military barracks. The visitors get to see the apartments, halls and terraces of the harem as well as the lavish royal bedchamber and Imperial Hall. The opulent lifestyle of the Sultans of the Ottoman Empire is on view in the exquisitely designed rooms where perhaps one of the greatest collections of treasures in the world are housed.

The city of Ephesus was established with a harbor on the mouth of the Cayster River and has become one of the biggest and best-preserved ancient cities of Turkey and one of the world’s spectacular historical sites. The city’s decline took place around the Byzantine era and by 527 it had got deserted. One does not much imagination to view what a functioning Roman city looked like and one also gets the help of guides who are available to provide insight into the rich history and architecture of the ruins. The city was originally dedicated to the goddess Artemis and her once-magnificent temple was considered to be one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

The ruins of Troy which were discovered in the mid-19th century removed any doubts that the story as told by Homer in the Iliad was a myth. Today massive crowds throng to Hisarlik in western Turkey to have a view of the romantic site where a long war was fought over the legendary beauty, Helen. Though there is not a great deal to be seen beyond the ancient walls, one can see a replica of the famed Trojan horse which enabled the final conquering of the city. One will also enjoy the spectacular settings from where views of the Dardanelles and the hills of Gallipoli are a sight to watch.