Ten Essential Things To Do When You Visit Turkey

Turkey has long been a controversial country in the long line of history. Being a mediator between Asia and Europe, Turkey has had a culture of its own - influenced both by its European neighboring countries as well as its Asian neighbors. For this, you will surely enjoy Turkey - the arts and letters, the museums, the vacation destinations, and the historic sites.

1.) Turkish Concerts and Operas

Having a culture distinctly of its own, Turkey has developed a liking for concerts and operas that are truly world class. Enchant yourself with the dazzling collaboration of Western classical music infused with Ottoman music. The result is a sound uniquely their own.

2.) Films in Turkey

Your visit to Turkey will never be complete unless you get to watch a Turkish film. Turkish films are truly world-class, having earned itself accolades and praises from international award-giving bodies. Also, Turkey holds its very own film festival celebrated in Istanbul.

3.) Museums in Turkey

Because of the very rich history of Turkey, a lot of museums can be found in the place. In these museums, you actually get to see artifacts found in Turkey. Some of the most famous museums in Turkey include the Museum of Anatolian Civilization and the Ethnographic Museum where Roman and Greek artifacts are on exhibit.

4.) The Cave Dwellings

A direct manifestation of the rich cultural tradition of Turkey is its cave dwellings, found in Central Anatolia Goreme, Turkey. What's so distinct and unique about these cave dwellings is that people are still living in these houses built by Christian monks around 4 A.D. You can just imagine the resilience of these houses.

5.) Roman Ruins

Turkey was once under the rule of Roman Empire. Until now, you can feast your eyes on the marvel of Roman structures left in Turkey. These ruins are found all over Turkey, the most notable of which is the ancient city of Adora, found in South Central Turkey.

6.) Mosques

Because Islam has been the official religion of Turkey from then until now, some of the most notable and architecturally laudable mosques can be found in Turkey. The Suleymaniye Mosque and the Blue Mosque are both found in Turkey. The signature domes of the Byzantine architecture are ever impressive in Turkey.

7.) Greek Ruins

As if the presence of Roman ruins is not enough, wait until you bear witness to another historic place in Turkey. In Western Turkey are the legendary ruins of the city of Troy. Indeed, this makes Turkey a place you must visit, especially if you are a history buff who loves learning about the early roots of civilization.

8.) Nature Trips

A trip to Turkey will not be complete unless you visit the nature-friendly areas around the country. One is Lake Van, located in the eastern part of the country. Because it is a lake, you will find the place to be very relaxing where you can spend a quiet time alone. In Turkey is also the world-famous Mount Ararat, known for its perfectly shaped peaks.

9.) Shopping in Turkey

Turkey is the place to be if you are a shopaholic. Here can be found the Grand Bazaar which provides roof for over 4000 shops for different purposes - food, fashion, technology, books, and many other things. What you are looking for can surely be found in Grand Bazaar, found in Istanbul.

10.) Foods in Turkey

The key to Turkish food is simplicity, and you will especially love the fact that the foods commonly served here are either filled with spices or herbs. These, after all, are prolific in Turkey. Also, anchovies are one of the best cooked foods in the country.