🇹🇷Turkey

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul

Built as a Byzantine cathedral in the 6th century, later converted to a mosque, then a museum, and again a mosque, its massive dome and shifting religious history make it one of the most significant buildings in the world. Faded Christian mosaics still sit alongside Islamic calligraphy inside. It anchors Istanbul's historic Sultanahmet district.

Cappadocia's fairy chimneys

A landscape of cone-shaped rock formations carved by erosion, riddled with ancient cave dwellings and underground cities once used for shelter. Hot air balloon flights at dawn, drifting silently over the valleys as the sun rises, have become one of Turkey's most iconic experiences. Many hotels here are built directly into the rock formations themselves.

Pamukkale's travertine terraces

Bright white calcium terraces cascade down a hillside, formed by mineral-rich hot springs that have been used for bathing since Roman times. The ruins of the ancient spa city of Hierapolis sit directly above the terraces, including a well-preserved theater. Walking barefoot across the terraces, as required to protect them, adds a distinctly tactile experience.

Blue Mosque, Istanbul

Named for the blue İznik tiles lining its interior, this active mosque sits directly across a plaza from the Hagia Sophia, allowing an easy comparison between Byzantine and Ottoman architectural approaches. Its six minarets were, at the time of construction, a bold and controversial choice matching Mecca's Grand Mosque. It remains open to visitors outside prayer times.

Ephesus

One of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean, its marble-paved streets leading to the towering facade of the Library of Celsus and a large amphitheater still used for events today. It was once a major Roman port city before the harbor silted up and the sea receded. A visit here gives an unusually complete sense of daily Roman urban life.

Grand Bazaar, Istanbul

One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, its 4,000-plus shops spread across 61 covered streets selling carpets, ceramics, jewelry, and spices. It has operated continuously since the 15th century, making it a living link to the city's Ottoman trading past. Getting pleasantly lost in its lanes is part of the experience.