Turkey's Best
AFAR Ambassadors are in-the-know bloggers who have a passion for experiential travel.
The best sites, food, and local experiences Turkey has to offer
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Do the Mediterranean by Foot
Most people explore the Mediterranean by boat via it's beautiful blue waters, however it is also possible to explore this area by foot via the Lycian Way. This 500km hiking trail in southwestern Turkey connects Fethiye in the west with southwest...
Traditional Desserts in Nontraditional Ways
While in Turkey I enjoyed traditional desserts like Baklava, but I learned to eat them in an nontraditional way. Did you know there was baklava etiquette in Istanbul?
My friend Fatih took me to Karaköy Güllüoğlu – the famous baklava sweet shop in...
Food Tour! Kadikoy Market
A half-day deliciously well spent...Take a food tour of the Kadikoy market on the Asian side. Foodie Banu Ozden was born in Istanbul, college and a little food industry experience in the USA, and back to Istanbul. She takes small groups on a walk...
Your Future Is In Istanbul
For a unique and eye opening experience have your coffee fortune read during your stay in Turkey. Not only will you learn about your future, but you'll also be on a caffeine high from the strong Turkish coffee that is served.
Wander into the back...
Cat Napping on Carpets - Istanbul
My eyes were first drawn to the colorful carpets, bags and pillow covers of this outdoor shop near the Aya Sofya in Istanbul. The vibrant reds, the pale pinks, the earthy browns. Some rough, some soft. Then, I noticed the cat sleeping on a stack...
Underground Cistern in Istanbul, Turkey
This cistern is thought to have been built after the Nika revolt in 532 AD. It was known as the Basilica Cistern during the Roman period. After the conquest of the city by the Ottoman Turks, it was forgotten of and nobody knew that it existed. It...
Ciya Sofrasy restaurant in Kadakoy, Istanbul, Turkey
An amazing meal on the Asian side of Istanbul in a great local dining spot. Fresh and delicious dishes from all over the middle east and traditional Anatolian cuisine. restaurant is located near a slew of cafes, fish markets, and fresh produce...
Up up and away in Cappadocia Turkey
55 Luftballoons took off before the sun came up over the stunning landscape of Cappadocia Turkey. The landscape was beautiful to see from above, however I think I was more in awe of a sky full of balloons which felt like such a unique experience.
Local Culture For Sale
One of the best ways to learn about a location is to go shopping. Head to the local markets to get a feel for what life is really like in a location. As I was visiting Ephesus ruins in Turkey, I made a stop at the Saturday Selcuk Market and was...
