On the Aegean coast in Turkey, between Selçuk and Kusadasi, is found one of the principal ancient sites of Asia Minor: that of Ephesus, which still has many ancient Greek and Roman remains today. Unfortunately, of the previously grand wonder of the world, you will only be able to admire a few fragments of columns...

The ancient site of Ephesus, from one temple to another

A cosmopolitan district of Istanbul, Kadiköy is one of the most lively areas of the mega-city. An authentic atmosphere blending modern impulses with its young population thrilling the old warriors looking to merge into the crowds.

Authentic promenade in the districts of Kadiköy

Hasankeyf is in south-eastern Turkey, a very small city containing numerous natural and human wonders. Associated with a rich, ancient history, the diverse geological and archaeological particularities definitely make this village a place to visit. You must visit Hasankeyf as quickly as possible, because a dam project will soon completely cover this little gem.

Hasankeyf, ephemeral splendour.

Classed under World Heritage by Unesco for its numerous Ottoman houses, Safranbolu has conserved the charm of its old cities. Famous for its saffron, it is pleasant to wander its paved streets, to admire its aqueduct or to go and explore the caves of Bulak, nearby.

Safranbolu, the saffron city

Göreme

Anatolie

İstiklal Avenue

Zelve

An unpretentious small town full of really nice people.

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Rize is located between the large city of Trabzon and Georgia, alongside the Black Sea. In Rize, you have the choice: either you admire the Black Sea from one perspective, or you go inland to discover the mountains covered in tea plantations. In fact, it's a very important region for tea production in Turkey. It's not surprising because in this country, the tea called "çai" is drunk at any time without moderation. This region is particularly humid, green and mountainous. Apart from the tea which covers the hills, the city of Rize isn't very attractive. When leaving Rize on the road to Georgia, many hikes are possible among streams, waterfalls and forest. Here, I remember seeing Turkey from a new angle, from a more agricultural and traditional perspective, as women were working alone in their fields in the mountains.

Rize, the region where the most amount of tea is produced in Turkey.

Rize is a little town on the Black Sea coast which doesn't look like much at first glance. The sea is not very inviting for swimming, but I enjoyed the town's amenities and its folk concerts, between cups of tea and hookahs. My local buddies were future naval officers who wanted to learn more about the world they were taking on.

Rize Vacations

Rize: How to get there?

Rize: When to go?

Rize: For how long?

Rize: What to see in the surroundings?

Turkey: our articles for your vacation