Explore the must-see locations for a winter getaway in Turkey, from the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia to the historic streets of Istanbul

 

Turkey is well-known for blending history, culture, and nature into your ideal winter escape. Not only does this popular holiday destination offer iconic sights, but also magical, snowy landscapes and, of course, delicious food. Winter brings fewer tourist crowds to Turkey, making it the ideal time to enjoy its natural beauty, a bit of winter sports, and some mouthwatering delicacies. In this guide, we explore some of the country’s hotspots to add to your Christmas travel list, hopefully leaving you in doubt that Turkey in winter makes for a fantastic festive holiday spot. 

 

Top Winter Destinations in Turkey

Cappadocia: Fairy chimneys and testi kebab

 

 

Why not take a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the snow-dusted landscape? Marvel at the outlandish fairy chimneys and enjoy the quiet, cool morning air. Fun things to do include exploring the ancient underground cities of Derinkuyu or Kaymakli. The latter is a spooky cave city, which was built as a refuge for around 3,500 escaping Christians. It’s said to stretch eight stories deep, though only around 10% of the entire city is said to have been excavated to date.

 

When you’re sufficiently hungry after your day’s exploring, warm up with some testi kebab. This clay pot stew is cracked open right at your dinner table, and is made up of steaming, slow-cooked meat and vegetables – perfect with a glass of the famous local wine. Fun fact: Cappadocia is well-known for its local Emir grapes, which give their local wines their rich, full flavor.

Istanbul: The Hagia Sophia and Salep

 

 

The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque in Istanbul is one of the capital’s most notable sights to visit. Here, the winter light adds an ethereal glow to the stunning mosaics and impressive domes. Enjoy a quiet moment reflecting inside the impressive structure, before taking a stroll along the Bosphorus. Smaller crowds and crisp winter air will make for a relaxed day’s exploring.

 

Once you feel a little too chilled, head for a salep, or creamy, fragrant, cinnamon-spiced hot drink. Salep is made from orchid root and tastes similar to hot chocolate with a more earthy, slightly floral undertone. It’s meant to help alleviate cold symptoms and prevent digestive upsets. I like to pair it with a warm simit, or sesame-crusted bread ring, a little like a doughnut, made with grape molasses.

 

Uludağ: Bursa’s ski resort and iskender kebab

 

 

If you’re the sportier kind, I recommend hitting the ski slopes at Turkey’s most famous ski resort. Uludağ is a well-known mountain in the Turkish Bursa Province. Take a cable car ride from Bursa for panoramic winter scenery and sights of the mountain and its snow-covered trees. It’s a true winter wonderland, ideal for skiing or snowboarding.

 

After a morning filled with swishing, glittering slopes and frosty faces, fill up on another Turkish delicacy that’ll warm you right through. Iskender kebab is made of thinly sliced meat layered over a freshly baked pita bread. It’s topped with melted butter, yogurt, and tomato sauce, and is a specialty of the Bursa region.

Turkey offers wintertime fun and delicious food

 

 

There is a huge array of things to do and see in Turkey in winter. This season is ideal for snowsport enthusiasts, and those just wanting to explore amongst smaller crowds. It’s also the perfect time to discover and indulge in some of the country’s delicious national dishes. This unique destination truly offers something for every traveler in the wintertime.