Retirement Vacations – Things to See in Turkey

Turkey is a Eurasian country belonging to two continents ñ Asia and Europe. Its Tourism industry greatly flourished when thousands of tourists started visiting the historic sites and scenic landscapes of the country. These attractions have made Turkey what it is today ñ a suitable holiday destination. For an enjoyable and memorable stay, here are the top ten things to see in Turkey:

1. Pergamom
This is an ancient Greek city situated near the Aegen Sea. It is popular because it is included in the Book of Revelations as one of Asia’s seven churches.

2. Antalaya Old Town
This is Turkey’s 8th most populous city and the biggest international sea resort in the country. It is situated along South-western Turkey’s Mediterranean coast.

3. Perge
This is an ancient Greek city situated in Anatolya. It is a large site where you’ll see ancient ruins such as the Acropolis that dates back to the Bronze Age. The city is also the most beautiful and richest city in the ancient world (Hellenistic Period).

4. Grand Bazaar
This is one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. It has over 58 covered streets and more than 4,000 shops.

5. Hagia Sophia
This used to be an Orthodox Patriarchal Basilica in Istanbul, Turkey before it became a mosque. It is currently a museum. In the ancient times, it served as Constantinople’s Greek Patriarchal Cathedral. It is also called Sancta Sophia after Saint Sophia.

6. Ephesus
This used to be a great Ionian port as well as trading town in Izmir, Turkey. It lies opposite Samos Island and near Kusadasi.

7. Heirapolis
This ancient Greco-Roman city lies on top of a hot spring. It is currently a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its spring is known to treat ailments in the Old times which is why dying and retiring people would come here.

8. Golden Horn
This is a popular historic inlet of the Bosphorus. It divides the city of Istanbul and forms the natural harbor which sheltered the Romans, Greeks, Ottoman and Byzantine as well as other ships thousands of years ago.

9. Blue Mosque
Also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, it is a historical mosque situated in Istanbul, Turkey. It is popular for its blue tiles that adorn the walls of its beautiful interiors.

10. Fountain of Ahmet III
This popular fountain is one of the top ten things to see in Turkey. It is situated in the great square of the Imperial Gate of Istanbulís Topkapi Palace. During the Ottoman period, it was a gathering place and a social center.

Jack is a travel writer and blogger. He loves writing about beautiful destinations and expensive hotels but mostly ends up writing about rainy days in Scotland and the Travelodge discount code 2011 .