Whenever individuals consider Turkey, images of such must-see attractions as the skyline of Istanbul, balloons of Cappadocia, or terraces in Pamukkale come to mind. Yet behind these already known tourist destinations is a best kept secret about the nation, the small towns, the raw nature and the old places which have not been tintinnitus enough to be spotted. When you are arranging a Turkey Tour and you do not want to follow the common tourist road, these secret places provide real experiences, less people and unlimited memories.
You might be just on a sightseeing trip to Turkey on a relaxing trip or be on an adventure trip, but visiting these not so popular places will make you have a closer attachment to the culture of the country, its history and natural environment.
1. Mardin A Living Museum on the Hillside.
Mardin is a town situated on a hill and can be said to be a step back in time, as it overlooks the plains of Mesopotamia. The city boasts of honey-colored stone buildings, tight lanes, and monasteries and mosques that are centuries old. Mardin is a city of rare tradition and architecture as the Arab, Kurdish, Assyrian and Turkish cultures influence the city.
Compared to busy tourist attractions, Mardin is a place that is slower. You can explore its old town, historic madrasas and have panoramic views without the feeling of being hurried. This is one of the strongest attractions in any Turkey Tour because it offers culture and history without the crowds to travelers who desire it.
2. Amasya intact Ottoman: By the River.
Amasya is one of the very beautiful but neglected towns of Turkey; it lies on the Yeşilirmak River and is surrounded by dramatic hills. The riverbank is paved with its well-preserved Ottoman-era houses giving it the postcard-perfect view.
Other features that are located in Amasy are the great Rock Tombs of the Pontic Kings, hewn out of the cliffs of Amasy to great heights. The town is very historic and still, at the same time, quiet and friendly, thus being a perfect destination to be considered by people who want to seek the authenticity. Visiting Amasya during your Turkey Tour will enable you to have a more traditional approach to the country.
3. Sagalassos - In the Clouds Ruins.
Sagalassos is another of the least visited ancient cities in Turkey which is hidden in high in the Taurus Mountains. The location boasts of dramatic mountainous landscape, with monumental fountains, theatres and temples, which are intact to date after thousands of years.
In contrast to other better-known archeological sites, Sagalassos will provide a relaxing experience and you will be able to explore the site at your own speed. This is a picturesque place that is a value addition to a Turkey Tour, and to those who love history and photographs, this place is a perfect Turkish vacation destination that incorporates a mix of nature with ancient splendor.
4. Halfeti – The Sunken Beauty
Halfeti has been named as one of the most interesting hidden locations of Turkey. In one of these the town was flooded away after a dam was built, and minarets and stone buildings came mysteriously out of the water. Nowadays, tourists come to Halfeti by boat, which sails over half-submerged ruins and picturesque riverbanks.
The town is also famous with having rare black roses that grow in the town. Any trip here is surreal and poetic to the traveler who loves offbeat destinations during his or her visit to Turkey.
5. Lake Salda - The Maldives (Without the Tourists) of Turkey.
Being often equated with the Maldives due to its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, Lake Salda is a natural phenomenon that can yet be discovered by a foreign tourist. The lake is located in the southwest of Turkey and has a reputation of having crystal clear water with serene environment.
Lake Salda is tranquil and ecstatic as compared to busy resorts on the coastline. It is a nice nature tourism place where people can unwind and reconnect with nature in a Turkey Tour.
6. Ani Ruins - The City of a 1,001 Churches.
The Ani Ruins are a spooky yet beautiful site that reminds us of a medieval city that was once so prosperous, but now it is a ruin site found near the eastern border of Turkey. Ani is considered to be the City of 1,001 Churches which was a significant cultural and trade center many centuries ago.
Its churches, cathedrals and city walls are today dramatically isolated on broad open plains. A visit to Ani is like discovering a missing part of the history, so it is an effective and unforgettable part of a Turkey Tour.
Why Visit These Secret Sites on your tour of Turkey?
Sightseeing outside of the most popular sights can make you look at Turkish differently. These secret locations are featuring:
Less traffic and less violent sightseeing.
True native culture and traditions.
Extraordinary sceneries and historical places.
Greater explorations than those in guidebooks.
These places should be added to your list and they will make a normal trip a real personal journey.
Plan a Different Kind of Turkey Experience Conclusion.
Turkey is much more than postcard attractions. Topping the hilltops and deep valley cities, villages buried underground and lakes with calm water, the country is surrounded by many secrets that should be revealed. In case you are fantasizing about a trip that can be cultural, historical and peaceful, then step out of the mainstream.
You can do this by opting to visit these under-the-radar destinations by taking thoughtfully planned and affordable Turkey tours without losing the comfort or the experience. It is time to start planning and discover the face of Turkey that tourists rarely get to see.