5 Most Spectacular Places to Visit in Turkey During January

1. 5 Most Spectacular Places to Visit in Turkey During January for an Incredible Winter Trip When it comes to places to visit in Turkey, January is a magical time to visit with fewer crowds, beautiful landscapes, and activities that are unique to the season. From snow-covered historical ruins and bustling bazaars, to thermal hot springs, this magical land in January is what you’ve always dreamed of. Whether on the cultural treasures of Istanbul or on the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, each destination has its own winter charms, beautiful landscapes, and activities that are unique to the season. Continue finding below, the best places to visit in Turkey in January along with a complete guide to explore them. Weather in Turkey in January Turkey’s January weather differs from region to region. Coastal regions such as Antalya and Izmir are relatively mild at 10°C to 15°C while central areas including Cappadocia and Erzurum can see temperatures below freezing, with a dusting of snow. On the contrary, nights in Istanbul would mean a temperature of between 3° to 8° and the possibility of it snowing. With such varied weather, you would find the places to visit in Turkey amazing!

2. Places to Visit in Turkey in January: Things to Keep in Mind  ● Bring warm clothes such as thermal wear, waterproof jackets, boots, etc. ● Certain outdoor attractions may have reduced hours or be closed because of the weather. ● In January, accommodation and flights are usually cheaper making it more affordable for places to visit in Turkey. ● Benefit from fewer tourists and a more personal touch at major attractions. ● Currency : Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency at all the places to visit in Turkey. You can exchange your money in TRY at the Istanbul Airport. ● Language : The local language in different places to visit in Turkey is Turkish (Though English is spoken in most tourist areas). ● Connectivity : It’s always better to purchase a local sim-card in Istanbul for data & calls. ● Shopping ideas: You can find nice souvenirs in Cappadocia. Spice Market, Grand Bazaar are other famous shopping stops in Istanbul and other places to visit in Turkey. ● Transportation : Inter-city flights are cheap. For transportation within cities, you can hire a car. Try Istanbulkart for travelling around Istanbul. You’d find these options convenient for places to visit in Turkey. Istanbul: Winter Wonder-One of The Best Places to Visit in Turkey  Istanbul, the cultural and historical heart of Turkey, is stunning in January. The cold weather and light snow give its iconic landmarks a romantic air. Accommodation Options in Istanbul ● Luxury ● Mid-Range ● Budget : Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet : Sirkeci Mansion : Cheers Hostel

3. Transportation in Istanbul: The Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) are two main airports for international and domestic flights. Public transportation is efficient: trams, the metro, buses and ferries make Istanbul an affordable place to visit in Turkey. Activity Description Witness the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site without the usual tourist rush. Explore two of Istanbul’s most iconic attractions during this small-group walking tour of the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Take a walk through the vibrant Sultanahmet neighborhood and admire the beautiful Islamic architecture of the Blue Mosque. Then, enjoy a guided tour of the Hagia Sophia, where you learn about life under Ottoman and Byzantine rule. Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque

4. Activity Description Explore the Ottoman Empire’s opulence with fewer crowds. Discover the Topkapi Palace on a guided tour with skip-the-line tickets. Learn about Ottoman history in the Palace and the life of the Sultan's family in the harem. Discover how the complex of buildings, pavilions, and courtyards was a self-contained city, which most inhabitants rarely left. Explore the outer-terraced gardens and admire the view over the Golden Horn. Immerse yourself in the heart of the great Ottoman Empire. Stroll through the palace, and imagine the ruling Sultans who lived in its hundreds of rooms with their vast families and countless servants. Topkapi Palace Visit the harem, ruled by the Queen Mother who wielded domestic and political power. The harem housed hundreds of women and family members as well as hundreds of eunuchs, who performed a wide range of duties. Walking through the Harem is also the only way to see the very early, exceptionally-crafted Iznik tiles decorated with floral designs and verses from the Quran. Enjoy warm Turkish tea while shopping for handmade crafts and authentic Turkish delights. Explore Istanbul’s exciting bazaars and artisan workshops. Join your host and experience the city coming alive in the shopping districts, both during the daylight and as the sun sets. Relish in the local vibe and enjoy a full sensory experience as you browse all the while getting top tips on bartering. Grand Bazaar The stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline under a winter sky are unforgettable. Experience Istanbul’s beauty and history on a morning Bosphorus yacht cruise with a stopover on the Asian side. As you glide along the strait, take in stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Blue Mosque and Dolmabahce Palace. Then, discover local culture on the city’s Asian side. Bosphorus Cruise Turkish Hammam Experience traditional Turkish baths to warm up and relax.

5. Activity Description Discover the culinary delights of Istanbul on a small-group evening walking and food tour that explores the European and Asian sides of the city. Catch the ferry across the Bosphorus strait from Karakoy to visit Kadikoy Carsisi market for tastings of typical bites. Sail back to the European side for a hearty meal of kebabs and meze, then continue to other fantastic eateries for dessert and Turkish ice cream. Traditional Food Tour with Dinner on Off-Touristy-Path Prepare for an evening of nonstop entertainment with an exciting Rhythm of the Dance show at the legendary Hodjapasha Culture Center in Istanbul. Feel the electric rhythms of Turkey as you enjoy shimmying belly dancers, magnetic harem dances, energetic folklore performances, and dazzling costumes, accompanied by live music and 360-degree video projections. Hodjapasha Rhythm of The Dance Show Taste your way around both European and Asian sides of the Turkish capital during this half-day, small-group food tour of Istanbul. Lunch, breakfast, and snacks are included. Get help deciphering local menus as you traverse bustling food markets and family-run shops and eateries in Kadikoy and Karakoy. Guided Street Food tour. Breakfast in Europe Lunch in Asia Cappadocia: One of The Most Popular Places to Visit in Turkey   The picturesque region of Cappadocia, with its unique rock formations and hot air balloon rides, become truly magical under a blanket of snow. Cappadocia: Where To Stay In ● Luxury ● Mid-Range : Sultan Cave Suites ● Budget : Shoestring Cave House : Argos in Cappadocia Transportation in Cappadocia: Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV) is the closest airport in the area,

6. For transportation it is possible to take shuttles and taxis. Things to Do in Cappadocia: Activity Description Hot Air Balloon Rides Soar above the white-dusted valleys. Göreme Open-Air Museum Explore ancient rock-cut churches. Underground Cities Visit Derinkuyu or Kaymaklı. Pottery Workshops Try your hand at traditional pottery making. Stay in a Cave Hotel Experience authentic Turkish hospitality. Read More..