Planning a trip to Turkey in 2026? Whether it’s attending the Istanbul Music Festival, marveling at the Pamukkale thermal pools, or strolling through the Grand Bazaar, Turkey offers a rich blend of culture and adventure. Here’s our handpicked list of top places and events to check out.
Best Places to Go in Turkey in 2026
- Visit Sónar Istanbul on April 26–27, 2026.
- Attend the Istanbul Music Festival – June
- Experience the Cappadocia Techno Festival – Dates to be announced
- Visit the Izmir World Fair – August
- Explore the ancient city of Ephesus – Year-round
- Relax on the beaches of Antalya – Best in May to October
- Discover the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia – Year-round
- Attend the Istanbul Film Festival – April
- Visit the Pamukkale thermal pools – Year-round
- Experience the Whirling Dervishes Festival in Konya – December
- Explore the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul – Year-round
- Attend the Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival – June to September
- Visit the Blue Mosque in Istanbul – Year-round
- Experience the International Antalya Sand Sculpture Festival – May to November
- Explore the ruins of Troy – Year-round
- Visit the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul – Year-round
- Experience the International Bodrum Ballet Festival – August
- Explore the ancient city of Pergamon – Year-round
Attend the Istanbul Music Festival
In June 2026, the 54th Istanbul Music Festival will feature a lineup of both international and local artists, offering a diverse range of performances across historic venues like the Atatürk Cultural Center and Sent Antuan Church. Official festival page.
Experience the Cappadocia Techno Festival
Set against the surreal backdrop of Cappadocia’s unique terrain, the Techno Festival promises an unforgettable musical journey. Dates for 2026 are yet to be announced.
Visit the Izmir World Fair
Held in August, the Izmir World Fair is Turkey’s oldest festival, combining commercial exhibitions with social and musical activities.
Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus
Open year-round, Ephesus offers a glimpse into ancient Roman architecture and history, including the iconic Library of Celsus.
Explore Kınalıada: A Unique Princes’ Island Experience
Kınalıada, the closest of the Princes’ Islands to Istanbul, is renowned for its significant Armenian community and distinctive wooden houses. We like to swim there, enjoy a nice view of the city at its beaches, and eat fresh seafood at local restaurants.
As of early 2026, one-way fares via public ferries (Şehir Hatları) using an Istanbul Card have adjusted due to local inflation; expect to pay approximately 70-80 TL for a standard crossing. For a quicker journey, private motorboats like Mavi Marmara offer services at higher prices.
Discover the Fairy Chimneys of Cappadocia
Cappadocia’s unique rock formations, known as fairy chimneys, are a geological wonder formed over millennia through volcanic activity and erosion. In 2026, standard flights typically range from €150 to €250 per person, depending on the season and flight duration.
These rides are available year-round, weather permitting, and typically last about an hour. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Attend the Istanbul Film Festival
In April 2026, the Istanbul Film Festival will celebrate its 45th edition, showcasing a diverse selection of films from worldwide. Organized by the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (IKSV), the festival features screenings, workshops, and Q&A sessions with filmmakers. Screenings are held across various venues in Istanbul, including historic cinemas in Beyoğlu and Kadıköy.
For film lovers, this is an excellent opportunity to learn about new Turkish and international films. More here: Film IKSv
Bath at Renovated Zeyrek Çinili Hamam in Istanbul
Zeyrek Çinili Hamam, a 500-year-old Ottoman bathhouse in Istanbul’s historic Zeyrek district, reopened in September 2023 after a meticulous 13-year restoration. Originally designed by the renowned architect Mimar Sinan between 1530 and 1540, the hamam was commissioned by Admiral Barbarossa Hayreddin Pasha.
While the hamam offers a luxurious and authentic experience, some visitors have noted that the services are on the pricier side. Another good historical place is Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamam.
Visit the Pamukkale Thermal Pools
Pamukkale, meaning “Cotton Castle” in Turkish, is renowned for its white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. You can walk along designated pathways and even bathe in certain thermal pools. The site is open year-round, but visiting during spring or autumn offers milder weather and fewer crowds. Nearby, the ancient city of Hierapolis adds historical depth to your visit.
Get a Drink at the Historical Pera Palace Hotel
Step back in time at the Pera Palace Hotel, a historic gem in Istanbul where Agatha Christie penned parts of “Murder on the Orient Express.” Even if you’re not staying overnight, you can visit the hotel’s Orient Bar & Terrace to enjoy a cocktail amidst the opulent ambiance of the early 20th century—a rare find in modern Istanbul. Here is a photo from my last visit.
Experience the Whirling Dervishes Festival in Konya
From December 7 to 17, 2026, the Seb-i Arus ceremonies in Konya will commemorate the 753rd anniversary of Rumi’s death. The festival features mesmerizing Sufi dance performances, known as the Sema ceremony, symbolizing the soul’s journey towards God. The event attracts visitors worldwide and offers a profound cultural and spiritual experience. It’s recommended to book accommodations and tickets in advance, as the festival is a significant event in Turkey’s cultural calendar.
Explore the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul – Too Crowded!
One of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets, the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul boasts over 4,000 shops spread across 61 streets. Open year-round from Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, it offers a vast array of goods, including jewelry, textiles, ceramics, and spices. Haggling is a common practice, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices.
Stay at Metropolitan Hotels Bosphorus – Our Favorite, Good View!
For comfortable and centrally located accommodation, consider Metropolitan Hotels Bosphorus. We always stay at this place when visiting Istanbul. Here is why? This 4-star hotel offers rooms with amazing views of the Bosphorus, especially from the top floors and the glass terrace. Situated just a 5-minute walk from the fashionable Galataport Promenade, it provides easy access to shopping, dining, and Beyoğlu’s bars, boutiques, and small independent galleries.
Attend the Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival
From June to September, the ancient Aspendos Theatre near Antalya hosts the Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival. This Roman-era theater, renowned for its exceptional acoustics, provides a historic backdrop for performances by both Turkish and international artists. The festival blends art with history, offering a unique cultural experience. Tickets can be purchased online or at the venue, but it’s advisable to book early, especially for popular performances.
Visit the International Antalya Sand Sculpture Festival
Running from May to November, the International Antalya Sand Sculpture Festival showcases intricate sand sculptures crafted by artists from around the world. Each year features a different theme, with sculptures illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere. The festival is located on Lara Beach in Antalya, and tickets can be purchased at the entrance.
Explore the Ruins of Troy
The ancient city of Troy, immortalized in Homer’s epics, offers archaeological wonders to explore year-round. Located in the Çanakkale province, the site includes remnants of ancient walls, temples, and a replica of the famous Wooden Horse. A museum near the site provides further insights into the city’s history. Guided tours are available.
Topkapi Palace in Istanbul is a MUST!
Once the residence of Ottoman sultans, huge and unique Topkapi Palace is now a museum open year-round, displaying imperial collections, including the Prophet Muhammad’s cloak and sword. The palace complex includes courtyards, gardens, and the Harem section, which requires a separate ticket. It’s open daily except Tuesdays, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entry at 5:00 PM. The best to explore this place is with a guide in your language who can tell a lot of interesting stories and fun facts. Due to its vastness, allocate several hours to fully explore the site.
Turkey’s diverse cultural heritage and natural beauty make it a compelling destination in 2026. Whether you’re drawn to its historical sites, vibrant festivals, or stunning landscapes, there’s something for you to do.
If you live in Turkey or have visited, share your story or send us your favorite spots and tips at hello@localsinsider.com.
