The Most Beautiful Routes to Explore in Turkey and Car Rental Tips
1. The Aegean Coastline: Muğla, Aydın, and İzmir
The Aegean region is known for its natural beauty and historical sites. This route, extending from Muğla to İzmir through Aydın, offers a fantastic vacation experience for those who want to spend their summer surrounded by the sea.
Must-See Places:
- Fethiye: Ölüdeniz, Kayaköy, and Saklıkent Gorge are popular spots.
- Marmaris: A great spot for a blue voyage and exploring historical ruins.
- Alaçatı: Known for windsurfing and its charming stone houses.
- Ephesus: One of the world’s most significant ancient ruins.
Car Rental Tips:
Car rental is very popular in the Aegean region, especially during the summer. It’s a good idea to make a reservation early. A small car should be sufficient for city tours, but for more comfort, an SUV can be a better option. Also, be aware that parking spots can be limited along the coastline, so make sure to research parking spaces before heading out.
2. Cappadocia: Fairy Chimneys and Underground Cities
Cappadocia is famous for its unique rock formations, underground cities, and fairy chimneys. You can explore both natural wonders and historical sites here. Taking a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia is also a popular activity.
Must-See Places:
- Göreme Open-Air Museum: A region filled with rock churches and frescoes.
- Fairy Chimneys: The iconic rock formations that make Cappadocia famous.
- Kaymaklı and Derinkuyu Underground Cities: Cappadocia's historical underground structures.
- Uçhisar Castle: A castle offering breathtaking views.
Car Rental Tips:
Cappadocia generally has wide roads and open spaces, making car rental a great choice for exploring. However, some areas may have rocky and narrow roads, so it’s better to rent a 4x4 vehicle. Take your time to enjoy the scenic views while driving at a slower pace.
3. The Black Sea Coast: Trabzon, Rize, and Artvin
The Black Sea region enchants visitors with its lush greenery, mountains, and fresh air. This route, from Trabzon to Rize and Artvin, offers a fantastic journey for nature lovers.
Must-See Places:
- Sumela Monastery: A monastery built into the mountainside with an impressive view.
- Ayder Plateau: A famous plateau in the Black Sea, ideal for nature lovers.
- Uzungöl: One of the most well-known lakes in the Black Sea.
- Zilkale: One of the historic castles in the region.
Car Rental Tips:
The rugged and winding roads in the Black Sea region can be challenging for those renting cars. Especially in mountainous areas, it’s important to drive slowly and carefully. Renting a 4x4 vehicle is ideal for these kinds of roads. Also, parking might be limited in some areas, so it's best to research parking spots in advance.
4. Southeast Anatolia: Gaziantep, Şanlıurfa, and Mardin
Southeast Anatolia offers rich historical and cultural treasures. Gaziantep’s cuisine, Şanlıurfa’s historical sites, and Mardin’s stone buildings are highlights of this route.
Must-See Places:
- Gaziantep: Famous for its Zeugma Mosaic Museum and delicious cuisine.
- Şanlıurfa: Known for sites like Balıklıgöl and Göbeklitepe.
- Mardin: Famous for its stone houses and breathtaking views.
Car Rental Tips:
Car rental is a great option for exploring this region as the distances between cities can be long. For long journeys, it’s important to rent a comfortable vehicle. Given that some roads in the region are dirt roads, an SUV or 4x4 might be a good choice.
5. The Great Istanbul Tour
Istanbul, with its mix of modern and historical attractions, is a city that offers something for everyone. Renting a car in Istanbul can be quite useful, especially if you want to explore lesser-known areas of the city.
Must-See Places:
- Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia: The historical heart of Istanbul.
- Beyoğlu and Galata: A fusion of modern life and historic charm.
- The Princes’ Islands: A great getaway from the bustling city.
Car Rental Tips:
Renting a car in Istanbul can be challenging due to heavy traffic, especially in the city center. Instead, consider renting a car for trips outside the city or to explore areas less affected by traffic. Parking can also be difficult to find in Istanbul, so research parking areas beforehand.
Conclusion
Turkey offers incredible beauty at every turn. Renting a car is an excellent way to explore these wonders at your own pace. The routes and car rental tips provided above will help you experience Turkey in an unforgettable way. By carefully selecting your route and vehicle, you can make your journey even more enjoyable. Safe travels!
