Fly&Drive Turkije

About the destination: Istanbul owes its historic importance and its amazing cultural and architectural heritage to its perfect strategic location, straddling the Bosphorus straits which separate Europe and Asia Minor. Through most of its 2,500-year-long history, the city (first known as Byzantium, then as Constantinople and since 1930 as Istanbul) was a cultural melting pot. Today, its population of more than 13 million is almost exclusively Turkish, and many of its people are recent migrants from provincial Turkey, lured by the promise of jobs and careers in this vibrant, fast-growing city. Istanbul is no longer the nation's capital, but is Turkey's economic and cultural powerhouse - a status underlined by its role as a European City of Culture in 2010 and the award of UNESCO World Heritage listing to many of its most important landmarks, which range from stunning Ottoman mosques and Byzantine churches and catacombs to the columns of Hellenistic temples and the remains of massive medieval city walls. But there's more to Istanbul than Byzantine and Ottoman heritage. A fast-growing economy contributed to a flourishing arts and music scene, with a plethora of new bars, clubs, private art galleries, restaurants and designer fashion outlets.

About the destination: Discovering Çanakkale: A Journey Through History and Beauty Welcome to Çanakkale, a captivating destination in northwestern Turkey, where history and natural beauty converge to create an unforgettable travel experience. Straddling the shores of the Dardanelles Strait, Çanakkale is not just a gateway to the Gallipoli battlefields, but also a treasure trove of ancient cities, charming villages, and stunning landscapes. Begin your journey in the vibrant city center, where the Kordon promenade offers picturesque views of the strait and a chance to sample delectable Turkish cuisine at waterfront restaurants. Stroll through the bustling streets and discover the Çanakkale Naval Museum, which showcases the region's maritime heritage, including a replica of the legendary Trojan Horse—a nod to the ancient city of Troy, located just a short drive away. The archaeological site of Troy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit for history buffs, with ruins that whisper tales of the epic Trojan War and the ill-fated love of Paris and Helen. Venture beyond the city to explore the Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park, where the ANZAC Cove and war memorials pay tribute to the soldiers who fought in one of World War I's most poignant campaigns. The serene beauty of the landscape stands in stark contrast to the bloody history it witnessed, offering a place for reflection and understanding. Whether you're attending the emotional dawn service on ANZAC Day or visiting the many cemeteries and monuments, Gallipoli's historical significance is palpable. Çanakkale's appeal extends to its natural wonders as well. The idyllic island of Bozcaada, with its vineyards, crystal-clear waters, and quaint Greek architecture, is a perfect getaway for those seeking relaxation and a taste of local wine. Back on the mainland, the ancient hot springs of the Mount Ida range promise a rejuvenating experience amidst lush forests and mythological landscapes where gods were said to watch the Trojan War unfold. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply in search of a unique cultural experience, Çanakkale is a destination that truly has something for everyone.

About the destination: Pergamon (/ˈpɜːrɡəmən/ or /ˈpɜːrɡəmɒn/), Pergamos or Pergamum (/ˈpɜːrɡəməm/) (Ancient Greek: τὸ Πέργαμον or ἡ Πέργαμος), was a rich and powerful ancient Greek city in Aeolis. It is located 26 kilometres (16 mi) from the modern coastline of the Aegean Sea on a promontory on the north side of the river Caicus (modern-day Bakırçay) and northwest of the modern city of Bergama, Turkey. During the Hellenistic period, it became the capital of the Kingdom of Pergamon under the Attalid dynasty in 281–133 BC, who transformed it into one of the major cultural centres of the Greek world. Many remains of its impressive monuments can still be seen and especially the outstanding masterpiece of the Pergamon Altar. Pergamon was the northernmost of the seven churches of Asia cited in the New Testament Book of Revelation. The city is centered around a 335-metre-high (1,099 ft) mesa of andesite which formed its acropolis. This mesa falls away sharply on the north, west, and east sides, but three natural terraces on the south side provide a route up to the top. To the west of the acropolis, the Selinus River (modern Bergamaçay) flows through the city, while the Ketios river (modern Kestelçay) passes by to the east.

About the destination: It is the central city of the district of Selsuk, Izmir Province, Turkey. It is located in the Aegean region, 18 kilometres northeast of Kusadasi, and 3 kilometres northeast of Ephesus.

About the destination: Pamukkale has been made eternally famous by the gleaming white calcite travertines (terraces) overrunning with warm, mineral-rich waters on the mountain above the village – the so-called ‘Cotton Castle' (pamuk means 'cotton' in Turkish). Just above the travertines lies Hierapolis, once a Roman and Byzantine spa city, which has considerable ruins and a museum. Unesco World Heritage status has brought measures to protect the glistening bluffs, and put paid to the days of freely traipsing around, but the travertines remain one of Turkey’s singular experiences. While the photogenic travertines get busloads of day-trippers passing through for a quick soak and photo op, staying overnight allows you to visit the site at sunset and dodge some of the crowds. This also gives time for a day trip to the beautiful and little-visited ancient ruins of Afrodisias and Laodicea, and to appreciate the village of Pamukkale itself.

About the destination: Fethiye is a small touristic town with an international atmosphere located on the crossing of the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. Fethiye offers visitors a wide variety of choices. Impressive ancient ruins, perfect sites for paragliding and water sports, history, natural beauty, highly developed facilities, entertainment beyond belief, the most magnificent bays and long sandy beaches. The pearl of Fethiye area is the incredible and magical Ölüdeniz region, a true paradise for mind, body and soul. The Ölüdeniz region includes a magnificent beach, the Blue Lagoon with the Babadag Mountain behind and a thick pine forest. Moreover, around Fethiye and Ölüdeniz, there are lots of small islands and lagoons, coves and gorgeous beaches that boosts the paradise atmosphere even more. Fethiye has also got a rich historical heritage, the city is surrounded by the Taurus Mountains and there are many ancient sites you can visit. Fethiye is a scenic relaxing holiday destination.

About the destination: Kaş (pronounced 'Kash') is a small fishing, diving, yachting and tourist town, and a district of Antalya Province of Turkey, 168 km west of the city of Antalya. As a tourist resort, it is relatively unspoilt.The town of Kaş is on a hill running down to the Turquoise Coast of southwestern Turkey. The district has a typical Mediterranean climate of hot, dry summers and warm, wet winters, which allows the growth of oranges, lemons and bananas. The lowland areas are also planted with cut flowers and a variety of fruits and vegetables, many are grown all year round under glass. The hillsides produce honey, and almonds, while at high altitudes there are extensive pine forests. The weather is drier at high altitudes. Although agriculture is still important, tourism is the main source of income in the district, which has many hotels and guest houses.

About the destination: Antalya is the largest city on the Turkish Mediterranean coast, and is one of the hubs of the so-called Turkish Riviera. Having the most beautiful and the cleanest shores of the Mediterranean, along with the long coastal line of Antalya, one encounters antique sites, old ports, monumental graves, dramatic shores, endless beaches, green forests, rivers and waterfalls. Kaleici, enclosed in ancient city walls, is Antalya’s Old Quarter. It is one of the liveliest parts in the city with shops, bars, restaurants and entertainment facilities. The streets of Kaleici extend to the old harbour, which is used as an international yacht marina today. In the picturesque Old Quarter, you’ll find examples of Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman eras and numerous archaeological cities and historic buildings to explore. Antalya is an attractive city with shady palm-lined boulevards, considered by many as a paradise on earth and the pearl of the Mediterranean. Not bad, huh?

About the destination: Konya is a city in the Central Anatolia Region of Turkey. It is the seventh most populous city in Turkey. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS - nce Minare Museum. Located close to the city center near the northern end of "Alaaddin Tepesi", this minaret and the surrounding small buildings today serve as a museum that displays various artefacts from the Seljuk and Ottoman eras. - Alaaddin Hill (Alaaddin Tepesi). This is an artificial hill that was built by the Seljuk Sultan Alaaddin Keykubat. - Meram. This is the district of Konya which lies somewhat away from the city center, with lighter construction and more greenery. - Seljuk Palace. - Alaadin palace. Built by Seljuk Sultan Kilicarslan II, restored by Seljuk sultan Alaadin. - Fuar.

About the destination: Ürgüp is a town and district of Nevşehir Province in the Central Anatolia region of Turkey. Located in the historical region of Cappadocia it is renowned for its nightlife and for its good adjustment to tourism making it a popular night stop for Cappadocia tourists. Ürgüp has traditionally been the tourism center of Central Anatolia's Cappadocia region. The city itself is most famous for its houses and hotels carved within the caves. There are also some bars, restaurants and nightclubs built next to these caves. It's one of the most common tourists' places in the Cappadocia region. Ürgüp is a great base with an easy access to all Cappadocia's main sights. Hot air ballooning is very popular, and a fantastic way to see the area's beauty from above.

About the destination: Like Washington, Brasilia, or Canberra, Ankara is the capital but not the first city in Turkey. The city’s modernity surprises those arriving from its primitive countryside. Pleasant and less touristic than Istanbul, Ankara has a handful of interesting sights and tremendous museums. It’s also a transportation hub for travel east and south, and home to all the embassies in Turkey. Atatürk Bulvari is the city’s main north-south boulevard, the boulevard lead to ULUS, the older section of town. Near the southern end of the citadel that dominates the old town, you’ll find the fantastic Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, the museum is one of the best in Turkey and it makes Ankara worthwhile to visit. The setting is unique, a restored Ottoman han and a covered bazaar, houses a collection of artefacts that trace the history of Anatolia from the dawn of time. While in the area, stroll through the bazar, the town-within-a-town inside the citadel walls, and the Alâedin Mosque, the oldest mosque in Ankara. Don’t leave Ankara without visiting Anit Kabur, the tomb of Atatürk. Its sheer size and the museum of Atatürk’s personal effects will give you a sense of Turkey’s immense reverence for its national here. The site is in a large park. Other sight in Ankara include the Temple of Augustus, built in 25 B.C.E. over the site of earlier temples to Cybele, an Anatolian fertility god, and to the Phrygian moon god but later converted into a Byzantine church. Nearby are Haci Bazram Mosque, the Ethnography Museum and the old Parliament. Ankara has a lively social scene, great restaurants and award-winning shopping malls, with a great deal of history dating back to the Romans to top it all off. The nation’s capital is the place to eat out in style, go to a club, visit art galleries, museums or explore antiques shops.