‘Dawn paints the statues gold': readers' favourite places in Turkey

The Guardian

11-07-2025

Rising from the rugged heart of Anatolia, Mount Nemrut offers one of the world's most surreal sunrise experiences. Here, colossal stone heads of ancient gods and kings gaze silently across the highlands, remnants of a long-lost kingdom. As the first rays of dawn paint the statues gold, visitors are transported into an almost mythic realm. Begin your journey in Gaziantep, often called Turkey's culinary capital. Savour rich baklava and spicy kebabs before setting out through the hills toward Nemrut. After experiencing the mountain's majesty, continue to Göbekli Tepe – considered the world's oldest temple complex, predating Stonehenge by millennia. Ickin Vural
It's become a little more expensive in Turkey recently, so my tip is: eat at the büfeler, where the taxi drivers eat. You find them at every bus station in every town and village. A light lunch of rice with kuru fasulye (beans) on top, perhaps a side of vegetable stew (despite all those kebab shops, Turkish people don't eat as much meat as we like to think), and an ayran (yoghurt drink) on the side would be my idea of a perfect lunch. Afiyet olsun! (enjoy your meal), as they say in Turkey.Anna
Guardian Travel readers' tips
Every week we ask our readers for recommendations from their travels. A selection of tips will be featured online and may appear in print. To enter the latest competition visit the readers' tips homepage
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Eskişehir is a vibrant, studenty city less than an hour and a half's train ride from Ankara. Its name ('old city') is a clue to the age of the place – it was founded around 1,000BC – but unlike some of the much more visited ruins and ancient cities in Turkey, it is very much a forward-looking, 21st-century place. The Odunpazarı houses in the oldest part of the city are beautifully multicoloured – it is a perfect area to enjoy an obligatory Turkish coffee and piece of lokum (Turkish delight).Michael Kuipers
Discover two gems near exquisite Ephesus: Alaçatı, on the coast near İzmir, is a picturesque, sleepy village complete with fresh fish restaurants and sandy beaches; a bit further south is Şirince, a beautiful flower village that stays fresh even through July heatwaves. You can explore the coast, visit thermal baths in spectacular Pamukkale, and Ilıca, or head to the Greek island of Samos for the day, while still savouring the joy of a simpler and more authentic Turkey.Thomas
Just above the popular seaside town of Kaş, tucked high in the hills, lie the ancient ruins of Phellos. The steep hike can be tough – especially in the heat – but the reward is worth it. Massive Lycian tombs and weathered stone ruins appear unexpectedly, like a scene from Indiana Jones. With no crowds or noise, it's an off-the-beaten-track adventure into ancient history. If you're seeking something beyond beaches and tourist spots, Phellos offers solitude, mystery and a stunning glimpse into a forgotten world.Pinar Greenwood
My top secret Turkey tip would be Mardin, in the south-east. Honey-coloured houses on a hilltop cascade down to the Mesopotamian plateau, and just about every hotel has a terrace with sweeping views across to Syria. The history is a mix of Assyrian, Armenian, Chaldean and, of course Turkish, with museums, medreses and narrow streets. It's a taste of the Middle East but with the safety of travel in Turkey. And the food … Ann Ozsivadjian
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The Dim River lies on the outskirts of Alanya, in the Antalya region. A short taxi or bus ride will transport you from the bustling seaside town to a cascading waterfall which flows from the Taurus mountains to the Mediterranean Sea. Trees and natural vegetation provide shelter from the searing summer sun, while the waterside restaurants offer traditional Turkish food and drinks. Relax at tables nestled in the trees, perch at the water's edge, or take a dip in a pool filled with icy mountain water – if you dare! Natalie
Sea kayaking along Turkey's wild south-west coast from Fethiye is an unforgettable experience. Paddle past hidden coves, ancient ruins and dramatic cliffs, before friendly local guides prepare delicious traditional Turkish meals, and the sunsets glow deep red over crystal waters. Fethiye is a culturally rich town nestled between mountains and the sea, and the perfect launch point for a trip. If you're after beauty, solitude and authentic connection, this is paradise.Mikey
We visited Antalya in February, and viewing some of the ancient sites on a crisp, sunny day with snow on the mountains in the background was brilliant. But the highlight of our trip was taking a hike in the Mount Güllük-Termessos national park to see the ancient Solymi city of Termessos, and particularly the stunning theatre, set atop the mountain with panoramic views. You pass many interesting ruins on the way up, but this is the jewel in the crown. We went on our own, but if you want to make a day of it I'd suggest joining a hiking group for an in-depth exploration.Alison
On a spontaneous road trip through Turkey's south-west, I stumbled upon Akyaka – a peaceful, pine-fringed village untouched by mass tourism. The Azmak River, so clear it seemed unreal, flowed past riverside cafes where I watched turtles drift by. Locals welcomed me like family, and evenings meant fresh seafood and golden sunsets. The architecture – wooden houses with carved balconies – gave the town a timeless charm. Paddleboarding on the calm sea at sunrise was a moment I'll never forget. Debbie Skudra