Unmissable Places to Visit in Turkey for First-Time Visitors

Imagine getting lost in vibrant bazaars, drifting over surreal landscapes in a hot air balloon, or relaxing by turquoise shores. That’s exactly what a vacation to Turkey promises.

Best known for its ancient ruins and stunning coastlines, Turkey is a country where every corner has a fascinating story to tell.

If you're visiting for the first time and are not sure where to go, use this as your guide. Below, we’ll explore the best places to visit in Turkey, from the bustling streets of Istanbul to the charming cities along the stunning Turkish Riviera.

We’ll also share a few tips to keep your trip smooth and hassle-free. Of course, that includes using a Jetpac eSIM for Turkey to make staying connected a breeze. And if this happens to be your first international adventure, don’t miss our Travel Tips for First-Time Flyers.

Istanbul

You'll likely begin your journey in Istanbul. And while it's not the country's capital, it’s undoubtedly Turkey’s beating heart, a city full of history, culture, and life at every turn. Straddling two continents, Istanbul is a blend of European and Asian influences.

Highlights include the iconic Hagia Sophia, which has served as a church, mosque, and now a museum. Just across the square, you'll find the Blue Mosque, which impresses with its cascading domes and intricate blue tiles. Wander through Topkapi Palace to get a glimpse of Ottoman opulence, then lose yourself in the colorful chaos of the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world!

Avoid long lines and enjoy Hagia Sophia without the crowds by visiting early in the morning. Also, don't miss a sunset ferry ride along the Bosphorus, where you can marvel at the glowing Istanbul skyline.

Cappadocia

If there’s one place in Turkey that feels truly otherworldly, it’s Cappadocia. Best known for its whimsical “fairy chimneys,” ancient cave dwellings, and rolling valleys, this region looks like it’s been plucked straight from a storybook. Offering a kind of magic you won’t find anywhere else, it’s no surprise that Cappadocia stands out as one of the best places to visit in Turkey.

Start your mornings here with a breathtaking hot air balloon ride, where you can watch dozens of colorful balloons floating over rugged rock formations as the sun rises. Back on the ground, explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site with rock-cut churches adorned with beautiful frescoes. Wander through valleys like Love Valley and Rose Valley and venture into the ancient underground cities of Derinkuyu or Kaymakli. The underground cities once served as safe havens for early Christians, who hid there to escape invaders.

With its fairytale-like atmosphere, Cappadocia is no doubt one of the most-photographed places in Turkey. That’s why having a reliable travel eSIM, like Jetpac, is so handy here. You can instantly upload your photos and share the magic with friends and family back home.

Pamukkale

Pamukkale is one of those places that hardly look real. Its name means “cotton castle” in Turkish, and once you see its dazzling white terraces spilling down the hillside, you’ll understand why. Shaped by mineral-rich thermal waters cascading over the cliffs for thousands of years, it’s a breathtaking natural wonder you simply shouldn’t miss on your trip to Turkey.

At the top of the terraces lie the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, a once-thriving Roman spa city. Wander through its well-preserved streets, explore a grand theater, and even take a dip in Cleopatra’s Pool, where legend says the Egyptian queen herself once swam among submerged columns.

Consider staying overnight in the nearby town of Pamukkale or Denizli so you can visit outside of peak tour bus hours and enjoy the site all to yourself! Make sure you have a Turkey eSIM for travel so you can easily navigate, upload photos, and look up local spots on the go!

Ephesus

If you’re a history lover (or even just mildly curious about the ancient world), Ephesus is a destination you simply can’t miss. Once a bustling Roman city and a key center of trade and culture, today Ephesus is one of the best-preserved ancient sites in the Mediterranean.

Check out the breathtaking Library of Celsus, with its grand facade that’s become the postcard image of Ephesus, and the massive Great Theatre, which could seat around 25,000 spectators and still hosts performances today. As you walk down the marble-paved Curetes Street, lined with columns and remnants of grand buildings, it’s easy to imagine what life was like here nearly 2,000 years ago.

Consider hiring a licensed guide, or use your Jetpac eSIM for Turkey to easily download an audio tour app and uncover the stories behind the ruins as you explore. If you have plenty of time, head to the nearby Selçuk to see the Basilica of St. John, or the House of the Virgin Mary, a peaceful shrine said to be her last home.

Antalya

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, sun-soaked beaches, and a laid-back vibe with a dash of history, Antalya is the place to be. Set along Turkey’s gorgeous Turquoise Coast, this lively city is one of Turkey's top destinations for beach getaways.

Explore Kaleiçi, Antalya’s charming old town. Get lost in its maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with Ottoman-era houses, boutique hotels, and cozy restaurants. Don’t miss the historic Hadrian’s Gate or the stunning views from the Hidirlik Tower, where you can watch the sun dip into the Mediterranean.

One of Antalya’s biggest draws is its sparkling coastline. Spend a day lounging at Konyaaltı Beach or Lara Beach, or take a boat tour to see hidden coves and dramatic cliffs from the water. Use Jetpac Turkey esim to book last-minute boat trips or look up nearby ruins without hunting for Wi-Fi.

Bodrum

If you’re after sun, style, and a splash of history, Bodrum is a must-visit. Often called the St. Tropez of Turkey, this vibrant Aegean town is best known for its whitewashed houses draped in colorful bougainvilleas, glamorous marinas, lively nightlife, and stunning turquoise bays.

Start your visit at Bodrum Castle, a medieval fortress built by the Knights of St. John. Today, it houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, showcasing shipwrecks and treasures from the region’s rich maritime history.

Stroll through the town's narrow streets to find chic boutiques, quaint cafes, and rooftop bars looking out to the incredible views over the harbor. Use your Jetpac esim for Turkey to easily navigate winding streets and find that tucked-away restaurant or café everyone’s raving about.

Why Jetpac is the Best eSIM for Turkey

If you want your trip to Turkey to be truly hassle-free, Jetpac is hands down the best esim Turkey you can get. It’s designed for travelers who don’t want to worry about finding a local SIM, chasing Wi-Fi, or coming home to surprise roaming bills.

Considered the best eSIM for Turkey, Jetpac allows you to stay connected 24/7 thanks to its exclusive access to multiple networks. That means if one carrier has a weak signal, your phone automatically switches to another, so you’re never stuck without service, whether you’re strolling through Istanbul’s busy bazaars or exploring the hidden valleys of Cappadocia.

You also won’t have to stress about hidden fees. Jetpac offers 100% upfront pricing with no bill shocks, so you always know exactly what you’re paying. Plus, you can hotspot your connection to other devices, even on unlimited data plans!

Indeed, Jetpac Turkey eSIM allows you to explore the best places to visit in Turkey with ease. It’s your digital travel companion that keeps your trip smooth, connected, and totally stress-free.