Discover Turkey – Best Experiences, Restaurants & Local Tips
Turkey is a destination where ancient history, Mediterranean beaches, incredible food and modern city life come together. From the historic streets of Istanbul to the beaches and ancient ruins around Antalya, there is something for almost every type of traveller.
Whether you're planning your first visit or returning for another holiday, these things to do in Turkey, restaurant recommendations and local travel tips can help you discover more of the country beyond the usual tourist attractions.
Things to Do in Antalya
Antalya is one of Turkey's most popular holiday destinations, but there is much more to the city than beaches and all-inclusive resorts.
Explore Kaleiçi Old Town
Kaleiçi is the historic heart of Antalya, with narrow streets, Ottoman-era houses, boutique hotels, restaurants and local shops.
Walk through Hadrian's Gate and continue towards the old harbour for beautiful Mediterranean views. The historic district combines Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman influences and remains one of Antalya's most atmospheric areas.
Visit Düden Waterfalls
The Düden Waterfalls are among Antalya's most recognisable natural attractions. The lower falls dramatically drop into the Mediterranean, while the upper falls are surrounded by greenery and walking paths.
A boat trip is another excellent way to see the lower waterfalls from the sea.
See the Ancient Theatre of Aspendos
Aspendos is home to one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world.
The theatre is remarkably intact more than 1,800 years after it was built, making it an excellent day trip for visitors interested in Roman history and archaeology.
Discover Perge Ancient City
Located close to Antalya, Perge offers an impressive look at the region's Greek, Hellenistic and Roman past.
The ruins include ancient streets, columns, baths, monumental gates and a large stadium. If you enjoy history, Perge is one of the best archaeological sites to add to an Antalya itinerary.
Relax at Konyaaltı Beach
Konyaaltı Beach combines Mediterranean swimming with spectacular views of the Taurus Mountains.
Its location close to central Antalya makes it easy to combine a beach day with sightseeing in Kaleiçi and the city centre.
Visit Antalya Museum
Antalya Museum contains an impressive collection of archaeological discoveries from Antalya and the surrounding region.
It is particularly worthwhile if you're planning to visit ancient sites such as Perge, Aspendos or other archaeological sites along Turkey's Mediterranean coast.
Spend a Day at Land of Legends
Located near Belek, Land of Legends is one of the region's biggest entertainment attractions, offering water attractions, rides, shows, shopping and entertainment.
It is particularly popular with families looking for something different from a traditional beach day.
Where to Eat in Antalya
Antalya has everything from traditional Turkish restaurants to seafood, modern dining and relaxed restaurants in Kaleiçi.
Some popular places to consider include:
- Vanilla Restaurant – A stylish restaurant in Kaleiçi with a refined atmosphere.
- 7 Mehmet – A long-established Antalya restaurant known for Turkish cuisine.
- Parlak Restaurant – A popular choice for Turkish dishes and grilled food.
- Hasanağa Restaurant – Traditional Turkish food in a relaxed garden setting.
- Gizli Bahçe – A casual restaurant and bar offering Turkish food, mezze and live music.
- Seraser Fine Dining – An upscale dining option in a restored historic setting.
- Balıkçı Barınağı – A good choice for seafood close to the harbour.
- Club Arma – Dining and drinks with views towards Antalya's harbour and Mediterranean coast.
Local tip: Before ordering in busy tourist areas, check the menu and prices. Restaurants with major sea or harbour views can sometimes charge more than smaller local restaurants.
Things to Do in Istanbul
Istanbul is one of the world's great city destinations. Sitting between Europe and Asia, it combines Byzantine history, Ottoman architecture, traditional markets, modern neighbourhoods and the Bosphorus.
Visit Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul's most important landmarks and one of the world's most recognisable historic buildings.
Originally built as a Byzantine cathedral, it later became an imperial mosque and remains one of the city's most impressive sights.
Explore the Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is one of Istanbul's most famous markets, with thousands of shops selling jewellery, textiles, leather goods, souvenirs and more.
Allow plenty of time to explore its maze of streets — and remember that bargaining is part of the experience.
Take a Bosphorus Cruise
Seeing Istanbul from the Bosphorus gives you a completely different perspective of the city.
Cruises pass Ottoman palaces, waterfront mansions, historic fortresses and neighbourhoods on both the European and Asian sides.
Visit Topkapı Palace
Topkapı Palace was the centre of Ottoman imperial power for centuries.
Today, visitors can explore its courtyards, historic buildings and collections while enjoying views across the Bosphorus.
See the Blue Mosque
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, commonly known as the Blue Mosque, is one of Istanbul's most famous landmarks.
Visitors should remember that it remains an active place of worship and should dress respectfully.
Climb Galata Tower
Galata Tower provides panoramic views across Istanbul, the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus.
Sunset is one of the most impressive times to see the city from above, although the tower can become busy during peak periods.
Explore the Spice Bazaar
The Spice Bazaar is filled with spices, Turkish delight, dried fruit, tea and other local products.
It is a great place to experience one of Istanbul's traditional markets and pick up something to take home.
Visit Dolmabahçe Palace
Located beside the Bosphorus, Dolmabahçe Palace represents a later period of Ottoman history and combines Ottoman design with strong European influences.
Where to Eat in Istanbul
Istanbul is one of Turkey's best destinations for food lovers, with everything from traditional Turkish cooking to modern fine dining.
Popular restaurants and dining spots include:
- Mikla – Modern Turkish cuisine with impressive city views.
- Nusret – The internationally famous steakhouse associated with Salt Bae.
- Karaköy Lokantası – Traditional Turkish dishes in a stylish Karaköy setting.
- Çiya Sofrası – Known for regional Anatolian cuisine.
- Sunset Grill & Bar – Upscale dining with Bosphorus views.
- Balıkçı Sabahattin – A long-established seafood restaurant near Sultanahmet.
- Hamdi Restaurant – Popular for kebabs and views across the Golden Horn.
- Nicole Restaurant – Fine dining with modern Turkish influences.
- Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi – A traditional choice close to Istanbul's historic centre.
- Pandeli – A historic restaurant inside the Spice Bazaar.
One of the best ways to experience Turkish food is to try different regional dishes rather than sticking only to restaurants aimed at international tourists.
Local Tip: Taking a Taxi in Turkey
Taxis are useful for getting around Turkish cities, but there are a few things visitors should know.
For normal city journeys, make sure the taximeter (taksimetre) is running.
You can simply say:
“Taksimetre lütfen.”
This means “Meter, please.”
Using official taxis and checking the route on your phone can also help you avoid unnecessary confusion.
For longer airport journeys, a pre-booked private transfer can be a more convenient alternative.
For example, travelling from Antalya Airport to Alanya involves a much longer journey than a normal city taxi ride. With a pre-booked transfer, you know the price before travelling and can go directly from the airport to your hotel.
Getting Around Turkey
Turkey is a large country, so transport can make a significant difference to your holiday.
If you're visiting several destinations, consider the distances between regions when planning your itinerary.
For airport journeys, private transfers are particularly convenient for families, groups and travellers with luggage.
With TTTurs, you can pre-book private airport transfers with:
- Fixed prices
- Airport meet & greet
- Flight tracking
- Direct hotel transfers
- Professional drivers
- 24/7 support after booking
TTTurs offers airport transfer routes across popular Turkish destinations, including Antalya, Alanya, Side, Belek, Kemer and Istanbul.
Explore TTTurs airport transfers and arrange your journey before you travel.
Local Tips for Your Turkey Holiday
Carry Some Turkish Lira
Cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but having some Turkish lira is useful for smaller shops, markets, taxis and tips.
Try Local Food
Turkish cuisine changes considerably from region to region. Try local specialities wherever you travel rather than ordering the same dishes throughout your holiday.
Dress Respectfully at Mosques
Turkey is a modern and diverse country, but mosques are active religious sites. Dress appropriately and follow any visitor instructions.
Don't Rush
Some of the best travel experiences happen away from the major attractions.
A small restaurant, a local market, a quiet beach or a cup of Turkish tea can sometimes become one of the most memorable parts of your holiday.
Planning Your Trip to Turkey?
From the Mediterranean coast of Antalya to the historic streets of Istanbul, Turkey offers an enormous variety of experiences.
You can spend one day exploring ancient Roman ruins, the next relaxing on a Mediterranean beach and another discovering Istanbul's markets and palaces.
Planning your transport in advance makes the journey easier too.
TTTurs provides private airport transfers across Turkey with fixed prices, professional drivers, meet & greet and flight tracking.
Whether you're arriving in Antalya, Istanbul or another major Turkish destination, you can arrange your transfer before you travel and go directly to your hotel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Turkey?
Turkey offers ancient ruins, Mediterranean beaches, historic cities, unique landscapes, Turkish cuisine, boat trips, adventure activities and much more.
What are the best things to do in Antalya?
Popular attractions include Kaleiçi, Düden Waterfalls, Aspendos, Perge, Konyaaltı Beach and Antalya Museum.
What are the best things to do in Istanbul?
First-time visitors should consider Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Topkapı Palace, the Spice Bazaar, Galata Tower and a Bosphorus cruise.
Is Turkey good for food?
Yes. Turkish cuisine includes kebabs, meze, seafood, pide, döner, köfte, baklava and many regional specialities.
Do taxis in Turkey use meters?
City taxis generally use a taximeter. Make sure the meter is running before starting your journey.
What is the easiest way to get from a Turkish airport to a hotel?
For many travellers, a pre-booked private airport transfer is the easiest option, especially when travelling with luggage, children or a group. A private transfer takes you directly from the airport to your hotel without the multiple stops and changes associated with public transport.