Turkey is a land of striking contrasts — from the moon-like landscapes of Cappadocia, through the turquoise bays of the Turkish Riviera, to ancient cities and canyons where you can wander among rocks and water. My journey led from Antalya through central Anatolia to Cappadocia, and then along the southern coast towards Fethiye and Pamukkale.
Below you will find the places that impressed me the most.
Termessos – a forgotten city in the mountains
Termessos is one of the most extraordinary ancient cities in Turkey, located high in the Taurus Mountains, far from the crowds and seaside resorts. The ruins are scattered among forests and steep slopes, and the whole place feels as if time has stopped there. The preserved theatre with a view over the valleys is one of the most beautiful in the region, and walking among the walls, temples and tombs gives a true sense of silence and space. It is an ideal place for those who love nature and history combined — without the bustle and commercial atmosphere often associated with Antalya.
Cappadocia – the land of balloons and rock cities
Cappadocia had been on my bucket list for years. It is a region famous for its unusual rock formations known as “fairy chimneys”, caves carved into volcanic tuff and sunrise balloon flights. The name of the region comes from Persian and means “the land of beautiful horses”.
I also discovered that Cappadocia can be very cold after sunset, even in the middle of summer — which is quite a contrast to 36°C during the day. So be sure to pack something very warm for the evening, and especially if you are planning a balloon flight early in the morning.
Love Valley
One of the most famous spots in Cappadocia is Love Valley — a valley with distinctive rock formations, whose name comes from… well, you know what 🙂 It is a popular hiking trail and one of the best places to watch the balloons.
Göreme and Ikman Gallery
In Göreme you will find many carpet shops — one of the most famous is Ikman Gallery, where you can see traditional Turkish craftsmanship.
Red Valley – turtles and unexpected encounters
During one of my hikes I met turtles, which was a huge surprise — I definitely did not expect to see them on the mountain trails of Cappadocia.
In the same valley, a stray dog accompanied us for several hours, guiding us through the mountains:
Lake Tuz – the pink salt lake
On the way from Antalya to Cappadocia you can make a detour to Lake Tuz — a salt lake that turns pink in certain seasons. In summer, many parts are dry and salt crystals sparkle in the sun.
Ölüdeniz, Fethiye and Butterfly Valley
The coast around Ölüdeniz and Fethiye is famous for turquoise bays, paragliding and boat trips to nearby islands. One of the most picturesque spots is Butterfly Valley, a gorge mainly accessible from the sea.
Saklıkent Canyon – adventure among water and rocks
Saklıkent Canyon is a place where you can walk along a river between towering rock walls, often wading through water. Further sections are accessible only with a guide and require climbing over rocks and using ropes.
Pamukkale and Hierapolis
Pamukkale is famous for its white limestone terraces, although today only part of them is accessible. On the same site you will also find the ruins of ancient Hierapolis and Cleopatra’s Pool, where you can swim among submerged columns.
Lake Salda
Increasingly popular thanks to its extraordinary water colour and bright, sandy shores.
Adrasan
A quieter seaside town, perfect for resting away from the big resorts.
Mount Chimera – the eternal flames
Mount Chimera is a place where flames emerge from natural cracks in the rocks — a phenomenon known for hundreds of years and linked to Lycian mythology.
Göynük Canyon
A more commercial but very picturesque canyon near Antalya, with turquoise pools, restaurants built over the water and rafting opportunities.
Turkish tea and cuisine
Turkish tea served in small glass cups, gözleme, baklava, lokum and colourful cafés full of cushions — all of this is an essential part of everyday life in Turkey.
Patara Beach
One of the longest and most beautiful beaches in Turkey.
The “evil eye” motif
A characteristic protective symbol found almost everywhere in Turkey.
Malvina Dunder 
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