visit WESTERN TURKEY, places to SEE and things to do

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Western Turkey

Western Turkey is where history breathes and the landscape flows from ancient ruins to vibrant bazaars, lush mountains to sun-kissed shores. This region, cradled between the Aegean and Marmara seas, offers travelers a layered experience—where the echoes of Troy meet the rhythm of modern cities, where Ottoman heritage coexists with Greek mythology, and where every meal is a celebration of regional flavors.

From the imperial grandeur of Istanbul to the mountain-fringed calm of Bursa, the Balkan-flavored streets of Edirne to the heroic coastlines of Çanakkale, Western Turkey invites curious travelers, history buffs, food lovers, and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're exploring Roman ruins, soaking in thermal baths, tasting time-honored dishes, or chatting with local artisans in centuries-old bazaars—this part of Turkey offers a captivating mosaic of culture, cuisine, and timeless beauty.

Istanbul

No trip to Turkey is complete without experiencing the soul of Istanbul. Straddling Europe and Asia, this vibrant city is a cultural mosaic that has evolved through Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman empires. Wander through the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, then let yourself get lost in the maze of the Grand Bazaar, where 4,000 shops tempt you with handwoven carpets, spices, jewelry, and antiques.

Don't miss a cruise on the Bosphorus—especially at sunset—when the skyline transforms with silhouettes of mosques and minarets. Dive into the Topkapi Palace for Ottoman opulence, and for a quieter charm, stroll the backstreets of Balat and Kuzguncuk with their colorful wooden houses and cozy cafés.

For food lovers, Istanbul is heaven. Feast on simit, köfte, and balık ekmek at the Eminönü pier, or sip tea with a view of the Maiden’s Tower. And if you're feeling adventurous, try kokoreç or çiğ köfte from a street vendor. For a modern twist, check out the trendy restaurants of Karaköy or rooftop bars in Beyoğlu.

Bursa

Nestled against the slopes of Uludağ Mountain, Bursa offers a refreshing contrast with its green spaces, thermal baths, and deep historical roots. Once the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, it holds treasures like the Green Mosque and Tomb (Yeşil Camii ve Türbe) and the majestic Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii) with its unique 20 domes and elegant calligraphy.

The Koza Han is a must-visit—once the center of the silk trade, now a tranquil courtyard to sip Turkish coffee and shop for silk scarves. Don’t miss the Cumalıkızık Village, a beautifully preserved Ottoman village with cobbled streets and rustic stone houses.

Bursa is also known for its thermal hammams, perfect for a wellness break, and in winter, it's Turkey’s most popular ski resort thanks to Uludağ National Park.

When it comes to food, İskender kebab reigns supreme—a heavenly dish of döner meat over buttered pita bread, doused in tomato sauce and sizzling sheep butter. Pair it with chestnut candy or Bursa’s signature peaches for dessert.

Edirne

Tucked near the Greek and Bulgarian borders, Edirne is a gateway to the Balkans with a proud legacy as the second capital of the Ottoman Empire. The star attraction is the Selimiye Mosque, a UNESCO site designed by master architect Mimar Sinan. Its towering minarets and intricate interiors will leave you in awe.

Stroll along the Tunca and Meriç rivers, explore the quirky Balkan-style mansions, and visit the Health Museum inside the historic Sultan Bayezid II Complex—an early example of holistic medicine and mental health care in the Islamic world.

Edirne also hosts the legendary Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival, a spectacle of tradition, music, and muscular competition dating back to the 14th century.

Don’t leave without tasting Edirne ciğeri (deep-fried liver), a local delicacy served with raw onions and hot peppers. Top it off with badem ezmesi (almond paste) and a glass of hardaliye, a traditional non-alcoholic grape drink.

Çanakkale

Çanakkale is where myth meets memory. Home to the legendary site of Troy, with its reconstructed wooden horse and ruins that echo Homeric tales, it's also a place of somber remembrance at the Gallipoli Peninsula. Visiting the ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery, and the Çanakkale Martyrs’ Memorial is a moving experience that draws visitors from around the world.

Stroll the scenic Çanakkale waterfront, lined with seafood restaurants and cafés. Visit the Naval Museum and the symbolic wooden Trojan Horse used in the 2004 movie, now standing guard near the harbor.

Explore the charming town of Assos, where Aristotle once taught, and enjoy the ancient temple ruins overlooking the Aegean Sea. The nearby Bozcaada Island offers wind-swept vineyards, quiet beaches, and cobblestone streets perfect for cycling and wine-tasting.

For food, enjoy fresh sardines, stuffed mussels, and Ege mezes (Aegean-style cold starters), accompanied by a glass of rakı. Local olive oil and wines from Bozcaada and nearby Ayvacık make perfect souvenirs.