Things to Do in Turkey: From Ancient Wonders to Seaside Escapes

The essential starting point for any trip, Istanbul, is a heady mix of Byzantine and Ottoman splendour. Here, the top things to do in Turkey are concentrated in the historic Sultanahmet district. Stand beneath the massive dome of the Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel that has served as a church, a mosque, and a museum. Directly opposite is the six-minaret wonder of the Blue Mosque. Don't miss the gilded opulence of Topkapı Palace, which served as the court of the Ottoman Sultans for nearly 400 years. For a true sensory experience, navigate the labyrinthine aisles of the Grand Bazaar, where the aromas of spices and Turkish coffee fill the air. Conclude your day with a relaxing Bosphorus cruise at sunset to admire the city skyline bridging two continents. 

Central Turkey offers a spectacle unlike any other. The otherworldly landscape of Cappadocia, characterised by soft volcanic rock sculpted into famous "fairy chimneys," must be on your list of things to see and do in Turkey. Another bucket-list experience is a hot-air balloon ride at sunrise, offering a magnificent panoramic view of the valleys. Beyond the skies, you can explore ancient cave dwellings and churches carved directly into the rock formations, revealing a unique cultural history hidden beneath the surface. 

No historical tour of Turkey is complete without visiting the remnants of the Roman Empire. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Ephesus is arguably the most magnificent ruin, where you can walk the ancient marble streets past the famous Library of Celsus and the massive Grand Theatre. Closer to the Turkish Riviera, Club Med guests can easily access the impressive ruins of the port city of Phaselis near Antalya or the ancient castle and mausoleum sites around Bodrum.

Beyond the grand monuments, some of the most rewarding things to do in Turkey involve local immersion. Experience a traditional Turkish bath (Hamam) ritual for a cleansing and relaxing moment of self-care. Engage with local artisans during a handicraft workshop, or simply take time to share a strong black tea in a local coffee house to witness the famed Turkish hospitality firsthand. 

The Turquoise Coast, spanning the Aegean and Mediterranean, is renowned for its crystal waters, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant resort life. Areas like Antalya and Bodrum are hubs for sun-seekers and sailors, offering the perfect blend of natural beauty and luxury resorts. With two beautiful properties, including the family-friendly Club Med Palmiye in the Antalya region, the coast offers an idyllic contrast to the nation's historical heartlands. 

The clear, warm waters make the coast a playground for all ages. There’s endless stuff to do in Turkey on the water, from sailing and windsurfing to enjoying family-friendly fun. Active travellers can enjoy snorkelling or scuba diving to see vibrant underwater life, or even try some thrilling paragliding over the stunning coastline of places like Ölüdeniz. Club Med resorts include many of these water activities and lessons in their package, making adventure accessible. 

The coastal areas are also the gateway to unique natural sites. The bright white, thermal pools of Pamukkale ("Cotton Castle") are a globally recognised natural wonder, best visited from the coastal resorts via an organised excursion. Further down the coast, the Ölüdeniz Lagoon offers iconic beaches, while the towering Mount Tahtalı provides a spectacular cable car ride for nature lovers seeking panoramic views. 

For families, the Turkish coast delivers on all fronts. Parents can enjoy wellness retreats and serene Zen pools while children are entertained at the dedicated Kids Clubs found at Club Med Palmiye. This effortless, all-inclusive environment allows everyone to find their perfect rhythm, whether it’s a relaxed beach day or an organised cultural day trip without any of the logistical hassle. 

Turkish cuisine is a rich fusion of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Central Asian influences. Sampling the food is one of the most rewarding things to do in Turkey. Start with a variety of cold meze platters, followed by delicious, succulent kebabs made with locally sourced meats and vegetables. Finish every meal with the iconic syrupy sweetness of baklava and strong Turkish coffee. 

To really understand Turkish culture, you must visit the food markets. Explore the vibrant spice bazaars, where you can find saffron, mint, and famous local teas. For a hands-on experience, consider taking a cooking class to learn the secrets of traditional dishes like mantı (Turkish dumplings), or simply enjoy a family-friendly food tour of the local districts near your resort. 

The vastness of Turkey can make planning complex, but the all-inclusive model of Club Med removes the stress entirely. Club Med Palmiye (Antalya region) and Club Med Bodrum Palmiye (Aegean coast) offer two perfect hubs for combining relaxation with culture. These resorts feature premium gourmet dining, specialist Kids Clubs from four months to 17 years old, and comprehensive sports programmes including the Flying Trapeze and padel courts. 

Club Med shares all of the very best things to do in Turkey. You gain easy access to cultural attractions through expertly guided excursions, ensuring you visit Cappadocia or Ephesus without worrying about travel logistics. This combination of family fun, all-inclusive convenience, and cultural access means you can relax and truly enjoy every moment of your Turkish adventure. 

Turkey offers an incredible balance of culture, adventure, and beachside leisure. Whether your priority is walking through ancient Roman ruins, floating over Cappadocia, or relaxing on the sun-drenched Turkish Riviera, the list of things to do in Turkey is endless.

The all-inclusive resorts of Club Med eliminate the logistical challenges of this expansive country, allowing you to effortlessly enjoy Turkey's stunning beauty without the stress of planning. With gourmet dining, extensive sports, and cultural excursions all handled, the only thing left for you to do is discover.

Experience Club Med’s all-inclusive resorts in Turkey, where ancient wonders meet coastal escapes and every moment feels effortless.