Lying in the foothills of the dramatic Mount Uludağ near the Sea of Marmara in northwest Turkey, the large city of Bursa has been dubbed 'Green Bursa' in reference to its many parks, gardens and vast surrounding forests. It is also known for its many ancient mosques and historical sites from the early Ottoman Empire. The main attraction is undoubtedly the majestic 14th-century Ulu Camii or Grand Mosque, featuring Seljuk-style arches and twenty stately domes towering overhead. Other must-see sights include the Ottoman-era Muradiye Complex, located in a lovely shady park, the Yeşil Türbe mausoleum of the 5th Ottoman sultan; and the Yeşil Camii or Green Mosque, which features exquisite green mosaic tiles, as well as a varied collection of historic artworks.
Located in the Nevsehir Province of Turkey, the town of Uchisar lies just east of Nevsehir. Perched on a clifftop, the town marks the highest point in the Cappadocia region. The undeniable highlight of this town is the incredible Uchisar Castle, which provides a magnificent panorama of the surrounding landscapes including Mount Erciyes. Home to trendy hotels, dreamy fairytale chimneys, and offering an authentic Cappadocian village experience, it is a summer vacation favourite with locals. Uchisar serves as an excellent base from which to explore the region, including the vast valley crowned by pink-and-yellow-hued sand dunes and the pigeon houses of Pigeon Valley.
Perched on Turkey’s Aegean coast, Kusadasi – with its stellar facilities, sundrenched beaches and elegant new harbour welcoming luxury cruise liners – is a major cruise ship destination and the epitome of a modern European town. Travellers are spoilt for choice here in terms of leisure and sightseeing opportunities: Kusadasi has everything from aquaparks and thermal resorts to lively markets and state-of-the-art shopping centres. The city’s pulsating nightlife is a magnet for party-lovers, while scuba-diving excursions, boat cruises and national park tours provide plenty to keep outdoor enthusiasts entertained. It’s well worth factoring in day trips to Selcuk (popular for skydiving and the location of the annual Camel Wrestling Festival), the ruins at Ephesus, and Guvercin Adası or ‘Pigeon Island’ situated on the peninsula at the end of the bay.
Located in the Mugla Province of Turkey’s Aegean Region, Bodrum is a popular access point for travellers arriving by ferry from the Greek islands of Cos and Rhodes. This vibrant, glittering port city makes a fabulous introduction destination to Turkey. For the young and the restless, there’s the city’s legendary, sparkling nightlife – Turks claim that Bodrum has more bars per square kilometre than any other place in Turkey – while history enthusiasts can explore the ancient ruins, elegant historical mosques, and multi-towered castle, dating to the Middle Ages. Alternatively, travellers looking for a more laid-back experience can peruse Bodrum’s lively markets for souvenirs and trinkets, soak up some sun and sea at the peninsula’s lovely beaches, or enjoy leisurely strolls or long seafood lunches on the city’s palm-lined promenade.
