Explore The Hidden Gems of Turkey: Unforgettable Turkey Tours

Turkey is the first preference of many foreign travelers looking for amazing experiences combining Eastern and Western influences. Many tourist destinations like the Mediterranean coast, Cappadocia, or Istanbul are popular in Turkey but house several other gems.

These are lesser-known treasures of the country’s natural beauty, culture, and history. Read on to go through some of the hidden gems of Turkey to make your tour unforgettable.

The Hidden Gems Of Turkey | Top Destinations You Must Visit In Turkey

Turkey has Istanbul and Antalya. These two were two of the most visited cities in the world in 2023. Further, Istanbul was in the numero uno spot on the list published in 2023.

In 2023, Istanbul recorded a 23% growth in the year-on-year tourism. Antalya, on the other hand, surpassed Paris, New York City, Bangkok, and Hong Kong in the number of footfalls.

Even in 2025, Turkey is a power to reckon with in the landscape of global tourism expansion. In 2024, the country has recorded a whopping 11.9% growth.

Now, Istanbul and Antalya may be the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey. However, Turkey has some offbeat destinations that are treasure troves for anyone looking for a meaningful experience in Turkey.

So, in this Dream and Travel Guide, we have discussed the hidden gems of Turkey to explore on your next Turkey Tours.

1. Ephesus

First on our list is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. You may visit the Clesus Library or the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus to witness the stories of the past, the city’s ancient streets, or well-preserved statues.

Moreover, located in the town of Selcuk, it brings some of the less-visited places. Also, the top attractions of Ephesus cover the Terrace Houses, the Basilica of St. John, and the Virgin Mary.

2. Lake Van

It is the largest lake in Turkey, surrounded by green landscapes and snow-capped mountains. Further, it has an ancient Akdamar Island, which is located on Lake Van and houses an amazing church named the Akdamar Church.

Moreover, located in the eastern part of Turkey, Lake Van is an ideal spot for culture and history enthusiasts with its rich Armenian history. You can further explore the amazing villages, hike in the surrounding mountains, and enjoy boating in the lake.

3. Sirince

Your search for a post-card-ready village in Turkey ends at Sirince. So, here, you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the surroundings, white-washed houses, and cobblestone streets.

Further, located in western Turkey, near Selcuk, it houses traces of Greek culture. Moreover, not to miss are the village’s fruit wines like the ones made up of figs, peaches, or cherries.

4. Dalyan

An untouched paradise in Turkey is Dalyan. It is a small town surrounded by the Mediterranean waters and green hills.

Located in southwestern Turkey, it blends relaxation, nature, and history. It offers the best views of Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliffs and amazing beaches like Izutuzu Beach.

5. Kaz Daglari

If you’re a nature lover, you must visit Kaz Daglari. It is rich in biodiversity and is home to several wildlife and plant species.

Located in the northwestern part of Turkey, it is a natural wonderland of mountain ranges with olive groves, clear streams, and lush forests. You can hike the mountains, swim in the hidden waterfalls, and explore the ruins.

6. Amasya

If you’re looking for a combination of history and natural beauty at some less-discovered place in Turkey, Amasya is the right choice. It has roots from the Pontic kingdom, with historical rock tombs carved into cliffs.

Located on the banks of the Yesilirmak River, it was previously home to several scholars and sultans. You must pay a quick visit to the Museum of Amasya and the Amasya Castle.

7. Mardin

A city with a combination of Turkish, Kurdish, and Arab cultures, Mardin offers stunning stone architecture, a labyrinth of several buildings, and minarets. Visiting Mardin helps you discover the old town in Turkey with multiple attractions.

Located in southeastern Turkey, Mardin helps you with local delicacies and discover the hidden courtyards. You get the best views of golden-hued limestone houses, bazaars, and preserved mosques, along with the Deyrulzafaran Monastery.

8. Antakya

Dip into Turkey’s oldest cities by visiting Antakya or Antioch. It brings a historical crossroad between Ottomans, Byzantines, and Romans.

Located in the southern part of Turkey, it houses the Saint Pierre Church, which is carved into the side of the mountain. You can see the top Roman mosaic collections in the Hatay AArchaeologicalMuseum.

9. Canakkale

Last but not on our list is Canakkale, for enjoying the waters and history of Turkey. Canakkale town offers stunning views of the sea and the Imbros islands.

Located on the Dardanelles Strait, its Troy region has roots in the Trojan War. It is further the gateway to the Gallipoli Peninsula, the place of the World War 1 battle.

10. Ani

Once a major trade center near the Turkish-Armenian Border, Ani is now one of the hidden gems of Turkey. Also, it was the capital of Medieval Turkey during the Bagrationi Dynasty.

Now, the ruins of this medieval city attract history buffs and scholars.

Here, you will find the remains of the historic walls and buildings that take you back to the 10th century. Unfortunately, this sprawling city of trade, politics, and culture saw an end in 1319, followed by a massive earthquake and Mongolian attacks.

Further, the medieval city on a secluded plateau was a meeting ground for Muslims, Christians, and Zoroastrians.

Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Inscribed in 2016), and its archaeological remains are divided into three sections: the Silk Road Bridge, the Citadel, and the Outer Citadel.

11. Mount Nemrut (Nemrut Dağ)

Southeastern Turkey has Mount Nemrut, one of the best hidden gems of the country. The elevation of Mount Nemrut is 2,134 meters, and it is most famous for housing the tomb of King Antiochus I. He ruled over this region in the 1st Century BC (69–34 B.C).

Today, Nemrut Dağ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as “one of the most ambitious constructions of the Hellenistic period.”