Today, most travellers think of Turkiye places like Istanbul, Antalya, Pamukkale, and Cappadocia, but beyond the famous landmarks lies a country rich with hidden gems, untouched beaches, and ancient ruins. If you are ready to dive into this tourist thrill, here are ten hidden gems in Turkiye that you must explore this summer.

Amasra – The charming Black Sea town:

Amasra is a lovely fishing town with cobblestone streets and fresh seafood. The peaceful scenery from the hills makes it the best coastal escape without crowds.

Lake Salda – “The Turkish Maldives”:

Lake Salda, which is located in Southwestern Turkiye, is a volcanic lake with amazing aquamarine waters and white sandy shores. Its dream-like landscape and mineral-rich clay are said to resemble Mars, and NASA also agrees with it. It is ideal for photography, swimming, and a peaceful picnic.

Sazak Bay – Untouched paradise in Antalya:

Unlike the crowded shores of Antalya, Sazak Bey (Sazak koyu) is an isolated small accessible only by a hike and boat. It is surrounded by crystal clear water and pine-covered mountains, and this is one of the Mediterranean’s best-kept secrets.

Assos – Ancient Beauty by the Aegean:

Commanding the view of the Aegean sea, the prehistoric city of Assos is home to a charming hilltop temple, which is dedicated to Athena. The village down below has stone houses, boutique hotels, and a slow pace of life. The sunset views from the ruins are magical.

Halfeti – The Sunken City:

The partially submerged village of Halfeti, which is situated in Southeastern Turkiye, lies along the Euphrates River. Several parts of the town were flooded during dam construction, living half-submerged buildings and mosques, which you can explore by boat.

Laodicea – The Ancient Forgotten City:

While Ephesus gets all the popularity, Laodicea near Denizli is an undervalued archaeological treasure. It was once one of the richest cities in the Roman Empire, which offers stunning ruins and a big ancient theatre with far fewer tourists.

Şirince – A Fairytale Wine Village:

A short drive from Selçuk (near Ephesus), Şirince is an amazing hillside village which is known for its handmade soaps and Greek Ottoman architecture. Cobbled streets, family guesthouses, and mouthwatering home cooking make it a serene getaway.

The Ihlara Valley – Cappadocia’s Greener Side:

Instead of experiencing Capadocia’s hot air balloon crowds, consider visiting the Ihlara Valley. It’s a serene, lush canyon shaped by the Melendiz River, which offers a peaceful escape with historic churches and amazing scenery. It also has a peaceful hiking trail.

Bozcaada – The Underrated Aegean Island:

Bozcaada provides a relaxed island vibe as it remains beautifully low-key. While visiting Bozcaada, you must explore the Bozcaada Castle and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

Mardin – The City of Stone:

Mardin, overlooking the Mesopotamian plain, is a cultural mosaic with Arab, Assyrian, and Kurdish heritage. Its narrow alleyways and honey coloured stone houses look like something out of a movie. The prehistoric monasteries and mosques tell a story that spans thousands of years.

These hidden gems in Turkiye, where East meets West, offer a deeper connection with nature, history, and culture. Far from busy crowds, these hidden corners are waiting to be explored, so next time when you plan to visit Turkiye, add some of these secret spots.