The Essential Guide to
Traveling in Turkey

Turkey’s largest city—the population hovers around 15 million—this hub is home to some of the most iconic places the country has to offer, from the Grand Bazaar to Hagia Sophia.

Where to stay:

The Peninsula Istanbul: Opened earlier this year, this 177-room hotel on the Bosporus Strait is located in a redeveloped area close to the Galataport cruise terminal, where you’ll find great shopping and the recently rebuilt Istanbul Modern museum. The hotel has a great breakfast in their lobby restaurant, as well as a rooftop spot set to debut this summer. “The service was excellent, and the rooms were incredible,” says F1S advisor Ashleigh O’Connor. “I loved looking out at the Bosporus at night, watching the boats pass by and looking at the mosques and buildings lit up.” She also had an amazing massage at the hotel’s huge spa, which features an incredible hammam treatment room.

Vakko Hotel: Slightly further inland, in the shopping and fashion-centric Nişantaşi neighborhood is this new hotel, founded by Turkish fashion brand, Vakko. Find 31 apartment-style suites (even the smallest are upwards of 1,000-square-feet), lots of perks, like an in-room shopping experience, and the signature Vakko L’Atelier bistro. (Just note: The hotel is for kids 12+ only.)

Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet: Take in all that Old City has to offer at this Four Seasons location, which has 65 rooms, multiple dining options (Pro tip: the Süreyya Teras Lounge has stunning views of Hagia Sophia) and a gorgeous outdoor courtyard. There’s a spa on-site and guests can access the pool at their Bosporus location.

History abounds in this city in central Turkey—and it’s evident in everything from the architecture (the stonework and cave dwellings alone are sights to behold!) to activities, like pottery making and wine tasting.

Where to stay:

Argos in Cappadocia: The 51 rooms and suites at this hotel are impressive, utilizing the natural stone landscape and views to its advantage, along with great amenities, like private pools, private Turkish baths and fireplaces, depending on which you choose. The hotel has its own vineyard and their spa treatment room is housed in one of the city’s signature caves. Bonus: Pets are welcome.

Museum Hotel: If you’re looking to see Cappadocia’s history and architecture up close, look no further than this 34-room Relais & Châteaux hotel. As they explain, the hotel is the “first ‘living museum’ concept hotel,” with everything from the rooms (including cave rooms) to the cave tunnels serving as examples of “priceless historical monuments from the Hittite, Roman, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods, all registered with Nevşehir Museum.”

Ariana Sustainable Luxury Lodge: With a variety of suites to choose from—including cave suites as well as duplex options with private decks and fireplaces—this pretty property in the Uchisar Valley also has a restaurant and outdoor terrace from which to take in the stunning valley views beyond.

For a taste of Mediterranean living, head to this coastal city on the Aegean Sea, with its busy port and stylish beach clubs. “Bodrum is situated on the Aegean Sea, and much like the offerings of their Greek neighbors, they have the option of visiting a beach club for the day, or enjoying a catamaran or yacht charter,” explains Ashleigh. And you can even do a ferry trip to Greece itself—the closest island is only a 30-minute ride away.

Where to stay:

Mandarin Oriental Bodrum: “The entrance and the view of the Aegean Sea from the hotel was breathtaking,” says Jonathan of this beachfront hotel, which features multiple dining options (both fine dining and casual spots are well-represented), a dual-level spa and a variety of accommodations options, from apartments to rooms with sea views.

Maçakizi: About 12 miles from Bodrum, this hotel makes the most of its location on Turkbuku Bay, with sundecks, firepits and a Turkish hammam, along with the opportunity to charter their private boat. Many rooms and suites, including their duplex villa, offer views of the water—not to mention their stand-alone villa, about a 10-minute boat ride away, if you’re looking for a more private experience. Overall, there’s an authentic feel and you’ll spot lots of sophisticated locals hanging out at the property.

Amanruya: If you’re looking for something a little more out-of-the-way, this Aman property is an ideal spot. Featuring gorgeous, stand-alone pavilion rooms, which include their own private pools and terraces, the hotel also has a private beach, spa, and dining options, including special events, like the six-course wine pairing dinners happening early this summer.

One thing our advisors noted most often: The sheer variety and breadth of experiences mean that a visit to Turkey can suit a variety of styles and interests. “I think this is a great destination for families and group travel because it has something for everyone,” says Michelle. “Shopping, an amazing food and wine scene, fun bars and restaurants, history and culture, beautiful mosques, amazing beaches, and great hospitality.” We also love it for:

Couples: “Cappadocia gives off some major ‘romance vibes’, with respect to the scenic mountain tops, hot air balloon rides, and their romantic and cozy cave hotels,” says Ashleigh, who specializes in the honeymoon market. Her recommended itinerary: Istanbul for 3 to 4 nights, followed by two nights in Cappadocia and wrapping up with some beach and relaxation time in Bodrum.

Multi-Gen Travelers: “Sometimes with multi-generational trips, it can be hard because everyone wants to do something different—but that’s where Turkey shines,” says Wonnie. In Bodrum, for instance, history and museum buffs can explore while parents with little kids can hang by the beach.

Foodies: “If you are a foodie, Turkey is the perfect place for you,” says Jonathan, who was a big fan of exploring the food in the markets of Istanbul. As he advises, “Lunch in the corniche is also a must in Bodrum.”