Istanbul: East meets West
From the moment I stepped into Istanbul, the blend of Byzantine and Ottoman grandeur left me in awe. I wandered through the Blue Mosque, marveled at Hagia Sophia’s past, and lost myself in the chaos of the Grand Bazaar—snacking on simit, sipping çay, and feeling the city pulse.
Best hotels in Istanbul
During my trip to Istanbul, finding the right place to stay made all the difference. The city has an incredible mix of charming boutique hotels tucked away in quiet corners of Sultanahmet, and modern, stylish stays in bustling areas like Taksim and Karaköy. I loved waking up to views of the Bosphorus and enjoying traditional Turkish breakfasts on rooftop terraces. Whether you’re after luxury or a cozy, budget-friendly room, Istanbul really has something for every traveler—and the hospitality? Truly unforgettable.
Sheraton Istanbul Atakoy Hotel
Conveniently located in a vibrant area, our hotel offers amenities to enhance your stay, including complimentary Wi-Fi, a rejuvenating spa and both indoor and outdoor pools for your relaxation and enjoyment.
GLK Premier Sea Mansion Suites & Spa
A stay at GLK PREMIER Sea Mansion Suites & Spa - Special Class places you in the heart of Istanbul, within a 5-minute walk of Mosaic Museum and Blue Mosque. This spa hotel is 0.6 mi (1 km) from Hagia Sophia and 0.8 mi (1.3 km) from Basilica Cistern.
Altunizade Suites Istanbul, by Hilton
With a stay at Altunizade Suites Istanbul, Curio Collection by Hilton, you'll be centrally located in Istanbul, within a 5-minute drive of Bosphorus and Bosphorus Bridge. This spa hotel is 6.3 mi (10.1 km) from Taksim Square and 7.8 mi (12.5 km) from Galata Tower.
Cappadocia: Floating in Dreams
Cappadocia’s sunrise is something out of a fairy tale. I stayed in a cave hotel tucked into ochre cliffs and watched over a hundred colorful balloons drift above me. The Goreme Open Air Museum offered echoes of ancient monastic life in its carved churches.
Best Cave Hotels and Unique Stays in Cappadocia
Staying in Cappadocia felt like stepping into a dream. I chose one of the region’s famous cave hotels in Göreme, and waking up in a cozy stone room carved into the hillside was an experience I’ll never forget. Every morning, I’d sip my coffee while watching the hot air balloons float across the sky—it felt surreal. The hospitality was warm and genuine, and many hotels even helped organize tours and balloon rides. If you’re visiting Cappadocia, I highly recommend staying in a cave hotel—it adds a magical touch to an already incredible destination.
Karlik Cave Suite Cappadocia
When you stay at Karlik Cave Suite Cappadocia in Nevşehir, you'll be on the Strip, just steps from Göreme National Park and 8 minutes by foot from Uchisar Castle. This hotel is 1.7 mi (2.8 km) from Love Valley and 3 mi (4.9 km) from Goreme Open Air Museum.
Barceló Cappadocia
With its 151 Rooms guests will be mesmerized by the beauty and tranquility of their surroundings providing truly exceptional moments for their stay
Takaev Cave House
Located in Nevşehir, Takaev Cave House is in the historical district, within a 5-minute drive of Uchisar Castle and Pigeon Valley. This hotel is 1.8 mi (3 km) from Love Valley and 3.1 mi (5 km) from Goreme Open Air Museum.
Turquoise Coast: Paragliding & Lagoon Bliss
In Ölüdeniz, I plunged into the Blue Lagoon before gliding above its turquoise waters during a paragliding flight—stunning views all around. I also explored hidden coves by kayak, waved at turtle sightings, and relaxed in seaside cafés shaded by pines.
Where to Stay on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast
Exploring Turkey’s Turquoise Coast was like finding a slice of paradise, and the places I stayed made it even more special. I spent a few nights in a small family-run guesthouse in Kaş, where the sea views from my balcony were absolutely breathtaking. In Fethiye, I treated myself to a beachfront resort with a private beach—waking up to the sound of waves was pure bliss. Whether you’re into laid-back vibes or luxury escapes, the Turquoise Coast offers a stay for every kind of traveler, all wrapped in warm hospitality and coastal charm.
Flamingo Hotel & Spa - Pet Friendly
With a stay at Flamingo Hotel & Spa - Pet Friendly in Fethiye (Ölüdeniz City Center), you'll be within a 15-minute drive of Ölüdeniz Beach and Kumburnu Beach. This spa hotel is 10.9 mi (17.5 km) from Çalış Beach and 8.5 mi (13.6 km) from Fethiye Marina.
Sea Breeze Hotel and Apartments
With a stay at Sea Breeze Hotel & Apartments in Fethiye, you'll be a 5-minute drive from Ölüdeniz Beach and 9 minutes from Kumburnu Beach. This family-friendly hotel is 9.1 mi (14.6 km) from Çalış Beach and 6.4 mi (10.3 km) from Fethiye Marina.
Mozaik Apartments
With a stay at Mozaik Swim Up Hotel and Apartments in Fethiye (Ölüdeniz City Center), you'll be a 1-minute drive from Ölüdeniz Beach and 7 minutes from Kumburnu Beach. This hotel is 11.1 mi (17.9 km) from Çalış Beach and 8.4 mi (13.6 km) from Fethiye Marina.
Off-the-Beaten Path: Nemrut & Mardin
Driving inland to Mount Nemrut, I witnessed the sunrise paint colossal stone heads golden. Later, in southeastern Mardin, sunbaked sandstone houses fell off a hillside toward Mesopotamia. The blend of Assyrian and Turkish heritage revealed itself in the warm hospitality and local dishes.
Where to Stay in Mardin and Near Mount Nemrut
Visiting Nemrut and Mardin felt like stepping back in time, and the places I stayed truly added to the experience. In Mardin, I stayed in a beautifully restored stone house overlooking the Mesopotamian plains—sunset from the terrace was absolutely unforgettable. The architecture, the silence, the atmosphere—it was all so grounding. Near Mount Nemrut, my stay was simpler but cozy, with hosts who treated me like family and even helped arrange my sunrise hike to see the famous stone heads. These towns may be lesser known, but the stays here are filled with history, heart, and authenticity.
Hilton Garden Inn Mardin
Overlooking the Mesopotamian plateau and the ancient, unspoiled city of Mardin in Turkiye, the Hilton Garden Inn Mardin hotel is conveniently located en route to Mardin Airport.
Mardiva Otel
With a stay at Mardiva Otel in Mardin (Artuklu), you'll be within a 10-minute drive of Mardian Mall AVM and Mardin Sanat Merkezi. This hotel is 4.8 mi (7.8 km) from Kirklar Kilisesi and 5 mi (8 km) from Latifiye Mosque
Marvel Hotel
With a stay at Marvel Otel in Mardin (Artuklu), you'll be steps from Sakıp Sabancı Mardin City Museum and 3 minutes by foot from Melik Mahmut Mosque. This spa hotel is 1.4 mi (2.3 km) from Great Mosque of Mardin and 2.1 mi (3.4 km) from Mardin Castle.
Top Things to Do in Istanbul: My Favorite Experiences
Istanbul completely stole my heart with its endless mix of history, culture, and energy. I spent my days wandering through the Grand Bazaar, sipping Turkish tea by the Bosphorus, and getting lost in the winding streets of Balat. Climbing to the top of Galata Tower gave me one of the best views of the city, and a cruise along the Bosphorus at sunset felt almost magical. Of course, no visit is complete without exploring the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia—they’re as breathtaking as you imagine. Every corner of Istanbul has a story, and I loved discovering them one by one.
Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table
Take in sights of the Bosphorus on board a mega yacht. Enjoy the city view with a 3-course meal while you listen to live music and watch stage performances at private tables.
Istanbul: Galata Tower Entry Ticket with Audio Guide
Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, the Galata Tower ticket gives you access to unforgettable views of Istanbul that will leave you enchanted and inspired.
Istanbul: Hagia Sophia & Museum Option
Visit Istanbul's Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque with a skip-the-line ticket. Stand in awe of the grand dome, stunning minarets, and exquisite mosaics that reflect its rich history.
Unforgettable Things to Do in Cappadocia: My Top Activities and Travel Tips
Cappadocia was one of the most surreal places I’ve ever visited. Of course, the highlight was the hot air balloon ride at sunrise—it felt like floating through a fairytale sky. But there’s so much more to do. I loved hiking through the otherworldly valleys like Rose and Ihlara, each with its own unique rock formations and hidden churches. Exploring the underground cities was fascinating and a little eerie in the best way. And in the evenings, watching the sunset from a quiet hilltop with a cup of local wine was the perfect way to end each day.
Cappadocia: Goreme Hot Air Balloon Flight at Sunrise
Soar above the unique rock formations of Cappadocia on a hot air balloon flight. Admire the fairy chimneys from a unique perspective, 2,000 feet above the ground, and take in the panoramic vistas.
Cappadocia: Horseback Riding Adventure Tour
Join a horseback riding tour in Cappadocia and journey through picturesque valleys. Choose a daytime ride or opt for a sunset tour to soak in the views of historic rock formations.
Highlights of Cappadocia Red Tour and Underground City
See the most important parts of Cappadocia in one day ! A full day tour of Cappadocia which is strongly recommended for the first time visitors and includes must visit places for Cappadocia region.
Top Things to Do on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast: My Personal Travel Highlights
The Turquoise Coast was everything I hoped for and more—crystal-clear waters, charming coastal towns, and endless adventures. I spent my days swimming in hidden coves near Kaş, sailing along the coast on a traditional gulet, and snorkeling in the sunlit waters of Ölüdeniz. Hiking a portion of the Lycian Way gave me the most breathtaking coastal views, and stopping for fresh seafood in tiny harbors felt like a reward in itself. Every town along the coast had its own rhythm, and I loved how easy it was to slow down and soak in the beauty of it all.
Kas: Kekova Island Sunken City & Historical Sites Boat Tour
Experience pure relaxation on a spacious boat deck as you explore Kekova Island on this tour from Kas. Dive into clear waters, discover the Sunken City and Simena Castle, and enjoy an onboard lunch.
Fethiye: Private Outdoor Sunset Photo Shoot with Long Dress
Capture magical moments in Fethiye with a long dress photo shoot. Pose against breathtaking backdrops like Ölüdeniz and Butterfly Valley, guided by a professional photographer.
Oludeniz Half Day Scuba Diving Program
Oludeniz With the Half-Day Scuba Diving Program, you will dive in the turquoise waters of Oludeniz in Fethiye, the "Land of Lights" and enjoy this experience.