Popular Destinations to Visit in Turkey During Winter

Many people may think that tourism in Turkey is limited to the summer, and may not know much about many beautiful destinations which can be visited in winter as well. In fact, the winter season that lasts from December to February is one of the best times to visit Turkey and experience authentic local life and other thrilling winter activities. So if you plan to go to Turkey in winter months, the following destinations should be on your list…

Istanbul

A major hub of business, finance and tourism, Istanbul is the largest city of the country. During winters all its historical sites like the UNESCO world heritage buildings of the Sultanahmet district are open to schedule. However, the bonus is that a visit during New Year will introduce you to Istanbul style street parties and a startling display of firework shows. During November and December months a blanket of white snow sometimes covers the city landscape. So, remember to pack clothes accordingly.

Cappadocia & Mount Erciyes

Cappadocia is a unique landscape of fairy chimneys and cave churches. During winter, its appearance turns into lunar-like and moon landscape under snow. All activities like hot air balloon ride operate here. Also the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Goreme Open Air Museum and cave churches remain open. To enjoy winter season, you can travel a short distance to nearby Mount Erciyes which is one of the major skiing destinations in Turkey.

Antalya’s City Centre

A Turkish Resort city, Antalya covers a vast distance. Although the resorts close down during winter but its city centre remains vibrant and active. Modern shopping malls, bowling alleys, and nightlife destinations carry on until the wee hours. Besides visiting its archaeological museum, you can head to the summit of Mount Tahtali, sometimes covered in snow. You will enjoy the travel up in the cable car and activities like paragliding, skiing or trekking to descend.

Uludag Ski Central

Uludag is amongst the most famous ski destinations in Turkey. The region has two separate parts; the first development zone is completed while the second is in the process of building more hotels because of its growing popularity. The ski centre is suitable for beginners or experienced skiers. Once here, you can also learn skiing at ski schools and hire equipments for skiing from the shops.

Ancient Ephesus

As the most visited historical site in Turkey, Ephesus is crowded during summer and is popular in winter as well. The historical sites include the magnificent old theatre, the Celsus library and the marvellous mosaics of the Roman terraced houses. You must also pay visit to the nearby Saint John’s Basilica and the Temple of Artemis. Last but not the least, wherever you go in Turkey in winter, don’t ignore the small villages as that is where the culture and traditions, and unique natural environments of the real face of Turkey lie.

Interesting fact to know!

The Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI) will conduct its convention at two beautiful cities of Turkey, i.e. Dalaman and Antalya. The convention dates are from 27th – 31st October 2017. For the first two nights, delegates will be staying at Hotel Hilton Dalaman Sarigerme Resort & Spa, Dalaman and the next two nights at Hotel Rixos Premium Belek, Antalya.

How to Reach By Air

Istanbul, Izmir, Ankara and some of the Mediterranean resorts have international airports. There are direct flights of Turkish Airlines from Istanbul to as many as twenty-four European cities, New York, Middle East, Bangkok, Karachi, North Africa Singapore and Tokyo. From India, you can take Etihad Airways, Jet Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways to reach Istanbul.

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