Turkey is a European and Asian country that's becoming super popular for people to visit. Even though France, Spain, and Portugal are well-known places to visit in Europe, Turkey is becoming famous too!
Lots of people, about 45 million, visited Turkey this year with over 33 million of them showing up in the first 8 months of 2023.
That makes it one of the most popular places to go in Europe. People think there will be even more visitors, maybe 15% more than in 2019.
Historical Facts and Adventures in Turkey
Why do people love Turkey so much? Well, it's because Turkey has a cool history. Many old civilizations like the Romans, Greeks, Hittites, and Ottomans used to live there. That's why there are lots of old buildings and places to see.
Turkey has a wealth of fascinating destinations to explore, including ancient ruins, bustling markets, and historical sites. The country is also home to stunning mosques and buildings that showcase its rich Muslim culture.
It's a mix of different cultures and religions, making it special for people who like learning about different ways of life.
Did you know that Turkey is home to one of the world's oldest and most famous architectural wonders?
The ancient city of Troy, famous for the legendary Trojan War, is located in Turkey. It's an archaeological site that dates back over 4,000 years and has layers of ruins that span different historical periods.
This legendary city, immortalized in Homer's epic poem "The Iliad," is a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and those fascinated by ancient tales and mythology.
Turkey isn't just about history. It has something for everyone! Turkey's big city Istanbul, is where people can experience a blend of European and Asian cultures.
And if you like beaches, Turkey has calm and pretty ones along the Turquoise Coast. You can even go hiking in the mountains there!
Money, Food & Everything in Between!
Turkey is a great country to visit, and one of the best things about it is that it's not too expensive. The local currency, the lira, is less valuable than the US dollar as the country is currently battling with inflation. This means that if you're from the US, your money will go further in Turkey than it would at home.
Staying in places like hostels or hotels, using public transport, and eating yummy food from street stalls or small restaurants won't cost much.
When it comes to Turkish cuisine, there are several delicious dishes to try! One of them is the famous sweet dessert called baklava. Additionally, various types of kebabs are made from meats such as lamb or beef.
Even if you don't eat meat, they have tasty dishes like Imam Bayildi, which is stuffed with eggplant.
You can try many of these dishes by having a meal called meze, where you can taste many different small dishes, just like tapas in Spain.
Turkey's rising popularity is no surprise! Its rich history, diverse cultures, versatile attractions, and affordability make it an ideal destination. Whether you seek incredible sights, mouthwatering cuisine, or a blend of diverse traditions, Turkey has it all.
Exploring Turkey means discovering ancient wonders, savoring delectable dishes, and embracing a melting pot of cultures.
So, if you're up for an adventure that includes stunning landscapes, delightful flavors, and a tapestry of traditions, Turkey awaits your exploration—truly a remarkable place where history, culture, and enjoyment come together in a magical experience!