What to see in Turkey by car and independently.

Turkey is an incredibly beautiful country where you can relax or learn about the amazing culture of another country. Turkey can be visited with a tour, of which there are countless, or independently by car. In any case, there will be a lot of interesting, exciting, and beautiful things. If you are going to Turkey by car, you must visit the most popular locations. Even though Turkey by car, what to see, such a list can be incredibly diverse and unusual.

Turkey to see independently

Asking any experienced tourist what interesting to see in Turkey, you can get the most diverse answers. After all, Turkey is diverse and incredibly colorful. Therefore, it is impossible to say for sure what needs to be visited in Turkey. However, there are many options for such a trip.

In general, Turkey is known for its popular tourist destinations such as Istanbul, Antalya, and Cappadocia. However, in the country, there are many hidden gems that remain unnoticed by most tourists. It is best to include them in the list of places that must be visited in Turkey.

Ayder Plateau (Ayder Yaylası)

Located in the Rize province in northeastern Turkey, Ayder Plateau offers breathtaking views of green mountain slopes, dense forests, and crystal-clear rivers. It is an ideal place for nature lovers who want to enjoy peace and clean air.

Here you can find hot springs, ancient wooden houses, and get acquainted with the culture and traditions of local residents - Laz and Hemşin. The plateau is especially beautiful in spring and summer when alpine meadows are in bloom.

Bozcaada Island (Bozcaada)

This small island in the Aegean Sea, not far from the Dardanelles Strait, is known for its vineyards, crystal-clear beaches, and traditional white houses with red roofs. Bozcaada remains relatively untouched by mass tourism and offers a unique atmosphere and authentic rest.

On the island, you can visit Bozcaada Fortress, stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, taste local wines and fresh seafood. The island is also known for its secluded beaches, perfect for a relaxing vacation.

Babadağ Camp (Babadağ)

Babadağ - a mountain in the southwestern part of Turkey, in the Oludeniz area, popular among paragliders. However, on the summit, besides exciting flights, you can find secluded camping spots with great views of the Aegean Sea coast.

This place attracts both paragliders and those seeking peace in nature. At night, you can observe the starry sky far from city lights, and in the morning, enjoy the view of the bay and coastline.

Lake Salda (Salda Gölü)

Lake Salda, located in the Burdur province, is one of the cleanest and deepest lakes in Turkey. Because of its white sand and turquoise water, it is often called the 'Turkish Maldives'. The place remains relatively unknown among mass tourism, despite its amazing natural beauty.

Around the lake, there are forests and hills, making it an ideal place for picnics, walks, and swimming. The water in the lake has a high alkalinity level, giving it healing properties.

Ihlara Valley

Ihlara Valley in the Aksaray province is a picturesque canyon stretching 14 kilometers along the Melendiz River. The canyon is home to numerous cave churches and monasteries carved into the rocks. This place resembles Cappadocia but is less known and less crowded.

A walk through the canyon will offer you views of ancient relics surrounded by lush greenery and the quiet sounds of nature. In some parts of the canyon, you can see wall paintings dating back to the early Christian period.

Alaçatı Town (Alaçatı)

Alaçatı is a small town on the Çeşme Peninsula, known for its vineyards, stone houses, and cobblestone streets. The town combines the authenticity of an old Turkish town with a modern atmosphere of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.

The town is popular among surfers due to the winds ideal for windsurfing. Alaçatı is also known for its festivals, especially the herb festival, which attracts enthusiasts of local cuisine and organic products.

Butterfly Valley (Kelebekler Vadisi)

Butterfly Valley is located near Ölüdeniz, and you can only reach it by boat or on foot. It is a hidden lagoon surrounded by high cliffs, where many species of butterflies, including rare ones, live.

The place is ideal for a secluded vacation, swimming, and enjoying nature. Here you can pitch a tent and spend the night under the stars, enjoying the silence and sounds of nature.

Where to go in Turkey by car?

Traveling in Turkey by car is an excellent way to see the real Turkey. This type of vacation is undoubtedly more interesting and challenging. Therefore, many tourists immediately refuse it. The main advantage of a car trip is the opportunity to see what is not accessible to other tourists.

Aegean Coast

This route is suitable from Istanbul to Bodrum via Izmir. There are several places on this coast where you can relax. Let's start with Troy. This ancient city is famous for the legend of the Trojan War. Here you can see the remains of ancient walls and a replica of the Trojan horse. You can also see Pergamum. An historical city that houses the ruins of one of the largest ancient cities, including a theater and Zeus altar.

It is also worth visiting Izmir. This modern city with a rich history where you can visit the ancient agora, Basilica of St. John, and take a walk along the waterfront. The city of Bodrum may also seem quite beautiful. A resort town with nightlife and historical monuments such as St. Peter's Castle and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus.

Mediterranean Coast

This route lies from Antalya to Fethiye via Kas and Kalkan. What you can see:

1. Antalya. Start your journey with a tour of the historic center (Kaleici), ancient port, and Duden waterfall.

2. Kemer and Cirali. Here are beaches with clean water and the historical ruins of the ancient city of Olympos.

3. Kas. A cozy town with a traditional atmosphere and great views of the coast. Do not miss the ancient amphitheater and narrow streets with benches of local artisans.

4. Patara beaches. One of Turkey's longest sandy beaches, next to which are the ruins of the ancient city of Patara.

Be sure to visit Fethiye. The city known for its blue lagoon in Oludeniz and Butterfly Valley, as well as ancient tombs carved into the rocks.

Cappadocia

One of the most popular destinations in Turkey in recent years. It is best to start from the city of Nevşehir. First of all, it is worth seeing Göreme. This open-air museum with unique rock churches and frescoes. Here you can also take a hot air balloon ride and see stunning landscapes from above. Next, you should visit the Love Valley. One of the most photogenic places in Cappadocia.

It is a must to visit the Underground Cities of Derinkuyu and Kaymakli. These impressive underground structures were used by early Christians for protection from enemies. You can also drive to Uchisar. This rock settlement offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.