If you want to see both Asia and Europe in one journey, you must make Turkey your destination. With a unique position of having land in both continents, amazing Turkey offers visitors a truly exceptional transcontinental experience. Istanbul, the only city that straddles two continents, has interesting facets that reflect its unique position. The European side boasts of such architectural wonders like the Hagia Sophia, an ancient basilica with what was once the largest dome in the world; the Blue Mosque and its imposing minarets; the enormous Dolmabahçe Palace; the imperial Topkapi Palace which affords spectacular view of the Bosphorus; and the eerie Basilica Cistern, which was constructed for water storage in case of siege of the city.
You might have had your fill of wonderful sights in the European side, but you’re bound to be awed some more once you cross the Bosphorus Bridge to the Asian side. The ornately beautiful Beylerbeyi Palace, the top of the Çamlica Hill which is a park that overlooks Istanbul where one experiences true Ottoman atmosphere, and the suburb of Üsküdar, where one can see the magnificent palaces in the European side across the Bosphorus from an entirely new Perspective.
After journeying through Istanbul, it’s time you head to the other fabulous destinations of Turkey. Visit Ankara and see relics of empires that once ruled the nation. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations in the Ankara Castle has a rich collection of artefacts on display, while the Mustafa Kemal Atatürk mausoleum called Anitkabir exhibits a collection of Atatürk memorabilia. Near the capital is the moonscaped Cappadocia region, where one is transported, literally, to a fairy tale world. Walking through the Cappadocian cities of Göreme, Uçhisar and Nevsehir lets you see the Fairy Chimneys and rock houses up close, as well as exploring underground cities, monasteries and temples used by early Christians fleeing persecution. To really appreciate the beauty of the region, hot-air balloon tours are available for those wishing to view the natural formations from above, while adventurous types can stay in one of the several cave houses converted into first-class hotels.
The perfect way to end your fairytale holiday in Turkey is to visit the Turquoise Coast. Turkey’s Mediterranean coast boasts of some of the finest beaches in Europe as well as quaint little cities and towns offering unique attractions. The rapidly developing city of Antalya is the gateway to the Turkish Riviera, as the coast is also known. Situated in a cliff overlooking the sea, the city is quite beautiful and inviting, with winding Ottoman style streets, particularly in the old quarter of Kaleiçi. Aside from Antalya, the seaside cities of Kemer, Ölüdeniz and Fethiye have postcard-pretty beaches that promise endless fun in sun and surf. For those raring for some adventure, the small town of Olimpos near Kemer has Lycian ruins, accommodations on tree houses, isolated beach and mysterious flames that erupt from the hillside. The town is a popular beehive of backpackers as it has a very lively social scene despite the spartan offerings. Many come here just to drink away the time at the backpackers establishments, just the perfect way to end your fairytale journey.
Marice Willard is a travel writer who writes for Zencarhire.com – Zen car hire offer cheap car hire in 17,000 locations worldwide. To book your car hire Spain visit www.zencarhire.com
