Things to Do in Turkey

Beaches and Seaside Resorts

Diving

Other Water Activities

Fishing:

Water Sports:

Sailing:

Thalassotherapy and Wellness

Beyond the image of the "traditional hammam" (worth trying at least once), Turkey increasingly offers activities and services centered around thalassotherapy, thermalism, spas, and general "wellness." With over 1,500 natural thermal springs—some of them hot—recorded in the country, there’s plenty to choose from. In short, a wide range of options, from local to high-end European-style services, in terms of both quality and price.

Hiking

Hiking

While Turkey may not be the first destination that comes to mind for hiking, the activity is very much alive here. The country offers a variety of landscapes and opportunities, from coastal trails to mountain peaks exceeding 4,000 meters. Generally, three distinct regions cater to hikers.

First, there’s the Lycian Way, which runs along the southern coast between the cities of Fethiye and Antalya. In total, 500 km of marked trails, often with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and scattered with lesser-known Greek and Roman archaeological sites. A major advantage: this route is easily accessible, despite some elevation changes, with everything needed for overnight stops, allowing you to mix hiking, swimming, and cultural discoveries.

Next, of course, is Cappadocia, where you can hike among "fairy chimneys," troglodyte dwellings, deep valleys, and the unique villages of this one-of-a-kind region. A rewarding experience that can be enjoyed as day hikes or as part of a longer circuit covering most of the area. What’s more, many of these hikes are easy to moderate and suitable for families.

Finally, for the more athletic or motivated, there are the Taurus and Kaçkar mountain ranges in eastern Turkey. Here, you’ll find mountains, high plateaus, glacial lakes, and canyons—perfect for multi-day treks. The highlight is Mount Ararat (5,137 meters), the country’s highest peak. Located in the far east, near the borders with Armenia and Iran, this mythical volcano—where Noah’s Ark is said to have landed—is reserved for experienced trekkers seeking a high-altitude challenge. But ultimately, it’s an unforgettable experience.

Cycling

With time and the rise of e-bikes, cycle touring and mountain biking have found their place in Turkey, with growing opportunities and infrastructure, especially along the coast and in Cappadocia.

Thanks to its three coastlines, Turkey offers three distinct experiences. You can follow the Aegean Coast near Izmir, taking advantage of the EuroVelo 8 route. Around 500 km of cycle paths and quiet backroads have been developed between the ancient ruins of Pergamon in the north and Ephesus in the south. A chance to pedal through olive groves and vineyards, pass through charming villages, enjoy the sea, and discover part of the country’s cultural heritage.

For a more athletic challenge, with elevation but stunning Mediterranean views, there’s the southern coast between Bodrum and Antalya. Or, for those who prefer to avoid crowds, the Black Sea coastline—from the Bulgarian border to the far east—offers a glimpse of another side of Turkey. But be warned: this route is best suited for motivated and experienced cyclists.

Finally, there’s the unmissable Cappadocia, where, as with hiking, cycling routes and trails have multiplied, particularly for mountain biking and gravel biking enthusiasts looking for thrilling terrain.

Horseback Riding

Less sought-after than the other two, there are still some great opportunities for horseback exploration in Turkey. And as often happens, wherever you can hike or cycle, you’ll also find options for riding.

This means you’ll find choices in Cappadocia, where the environment is ideal for this type of experience—regardless of your skill level. There are also options in certain areas along the Aegean Coast and the Lycian Way. For those seeking adventure and thrills, the Taurus Mountains along the southern coast and the hinterland of Antalya offer exciting possibilities.

Outdoor and Adventure Sports

Golf

Whitewater Activities

Climbing, Mountaineering, and Winter Sports

Paragliding and Aerial Sports

Shopping and Markets

Cultural Life and Activities

Nightlife and Going Out