10 Most Unique Experiences You Must Have In Turkey

Meika
Meika 
Updated
| 4 min read

Filled with rich history, gorgeous scenery, and delectable fare, Turkey is an epic destination for vacationers looking for cultural vibrancy. Turkey’s past shines through its famous vestiges which depict the relics of the Ottomans and Romans and monuments such as the ruins of Lycia. The landscape is a kaleidoscope of pristine beaches, panoramic vistas, lush pastures, and bountiful groves. A memorable experience awaits at the popular Mediterranean hotspots or may be a day trip to Lake Eğirdir for a nature expedition. It is worth mentioning that Turkey’s best cooks specialize in fresh home-grown food that is relished by tasters, whether local or global. Those with a sweet tooth can enjoy an irresistible dessert of baklava that dates back to the time of the Ottoman Empire. Plan your trip while you check out this list of the most unique experiences you must have in Turkey.

1. Go horseback rising across a picturesque trail (from USD 21.0)

What’s better than enjoying picturesque sunset views while on a caravan horse ride in Turkey? We can’t think of anything better than this unique experience for adventurous travelers. The tour starts off at a horse ranch in Cavusin followed by a riding trail through two valleys in Cappadocia. Here you get to see the wonderful variance in both rugged and grassy landscapes. The peak of the ride is at Rose Valley where everyone takes a short break while taking in the gorgeous scenery. Make your trip all the more memorable with some quick photos with friends.

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Sunset Horseback Riding in Cappadocia

Duration: 2 hours

540 reviews

2. Embark on a boat tour of the Mediterranean coastline (from USD 29.0)

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind boat tour of the Mediterranean coastline while snacking on cheese, Turkish-syle bread, and fruits. You’ll get the chance to sightsee the main attractions in Turkey which include the Old Ottoman Towers and Bosphorus Bridges. Part of the one-hour tour showcases some of the most beautiful landscapes in Turkey such as the lush green forests and the palatial homes. When the tour ends, guests can enjoy some delicious grub at the nearby kebab stand.

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Breakfast Street & Bosphorus Boat Tour

Duration: 4 hours

286 reviews

3. Visit an authentic coffee house in Istanbul (from USD 28.0)

Visit this lovely coffee shop for some of the best-tasting beverages around Istanbul. The shop even features their very own Turkish coffee expert to provide you with tidbits on quality coffee that you’ll only find in Turkey. As you sit and relax, you can enjoy the lovely aroma from one of the very few authentic coffee houses, which will no doubt inspire your love for the drink even more.

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Turkish Coffee Culture & Fortune-Telling Workshop

Duration: 1.5 hours

380 reviews

4. Sign up for a bicycle tour along the Asian coast (from USD 21.0)

Are you ready for a biking marathon around some of the best spots in Turkey? This biking tour will take you around the Marama Sea and the Asian Coast. You’ll get to experience a pleasant route filled with busy locals, tourist areas, and lush parks. If you want a longer tour try going on the weekend as it lasts for three hours rather than the usual two on the weekday. You’ll also get to do a lot more sightseeing of attractions during this time.

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Discover Asian Side On Bike With a Local

Duration: 2.5 hours

164 reviews

Turkey Tour Guide

Rose TheGuide

Rose The Guide

Professional Tour / Travel Guide and Photographer Certified by Turkish Republic Ministry of Culture and Tourism. I am a knowledgeable and motivated individual with years of experience in organizing group tours in several areas; have the ability to motivate different sets of audience; have the ability to communicate effectively and possess high degree of energy and enthusiasm.

5. Enjoy exotic delights on this Asian food tour (from USD 36.0)

No trip is complete without an Asian food tour. This one leads you from Kadikoy followed by an Asian market where you’ll buy some delicious foods for all to share. Then you can experience the culture and history of Moda, a seaside town and peninsula. Engage in lovely banter and taste some exotic food while you take in the atmosphere of Istanbul. Try this unique two-hour tour filled with food, fun, and new friends.

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Asian side Food Tasting

Duration: 2 hours

201 reviews

6. Get ready for a seaside adventure in Turkey (from USD 35.0)

Enjoy a day exploring just a small part of the beautiful coastline around Turkey. You can start off your tour from Kas Harbour and drift along to Inonu Bay while enjoying refreshments. You’ll also get a chance to take a dip in the sparkling blue waters and maybe spot some underwater creatures. Aquarium Bay is your next stop, and if you’re feeling hungry, barbequed chicken with salad is on the menu. Shipyard Bay, the famous Sunken city, and Simena Castle are just a few more attractions that you’ll see along the way. Enjoy one last swim at Camlick Bay, before heading back to Kekova.

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Sunken City Kekova Boat Tour inc lunch

Duration: 8.5 hours

143 reviews

7. Create fine art at this glass-making class (from USD 23.0)

Get out of your comfort zone and experience something new at this unique glass-making class. Taught by an expert artist and glassblower, you’ll be able to design your own special keepsake in record time. The class starts with a rich history lesson all about glass-making and its inception in 1500 B.C. After this, you will dive into learning how to shape glass through melting. Create your very own accessories and jewelry that you can show off to friends.

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Get inspired by glass making class

Duration: 2.5 hours

72 reviews

8. Take to the skies in Istanbul (from USD 103.0)

Enjoy a high flying adventure in Istanbul, Turkey, on this paragliding tour. This 11-hour tour allows you to behold the gorgeous landscape of Turkey in its most natural state. In order to fly safely, groups will get paragliding training from an expert before taking to the skies. Once you’re done, take a tour of the skies while looking down at the panoramic views of Istanbul.

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Fly Like a Bird

Duration: 6 hours

53 reviews

9. Learn music at this Eastern percussion class (from USD 23.0)

Learn how to play the Eastern percussion style instruments in Istanbul. At this private class, you’ll be instructed by Hakan Kaya, an experienced professional percussionist. Hakan does provide you with an instrument if you don’t have one. Listen, learn, and play Turkish rhythms for an entire hour after which you can enjoy some refreshments.

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Private Eastern percussion lessons

Duration: 1 hour

28 reviews

10. Plan an intriguing night-time tour of Istanbul (from USD 11.0)

Experience a night out in the town with a twist. This is not your typical tour, as you are expected to chat, ask questions, and learn Turkish history. Though the tour lasts for five hours, you won’t be bored at all. Dive deep into the history and culture of Istanbul and be prepared to get some great photographs of the city.

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NightLife And Hidden streets of Istanbul

Duration: 3 hours

24 reviews

Partake in unique adventures in Turkey

Turkey is just the place to be if you want to experience a lively culture, great food, and excitement. These unique tours help you get the taste of this magnificent country. There is always something fun to do whether you’re on a boat tour in the Mediterranean or swimming in Camlick Bay. The food is also an experience you won’t want to miss. Try out an Asian food tour to awaken your taste buds. Better yet, take part in a unique night-time tour of Istanbul, where you’ll see your fair share of hidden streets and historical spots.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!

In light of the February 2023 earthquake that devastated Turkey and Syria, Trip101 urges you to be apprised of the latest news if you have any plans to travel to Eastern Turkey. Other parts of the country remain open to travelers.

Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Meika transitioned from a career as a Life Skills Trainer to become a full-time travel writer. With a deep passion for reading and a penchant for discovering new cultures through travel, she often...Read more

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