Embarking on a journey as an Erasmus+ or European Solidarity Corps (ESC) volunteer is not just an opportunity to contribute to communities across Turkiye; it's also a chance to explore some of the continent's most breathtaking and culturally rich destinations. Whether you're seeking natural wonders, historic charm, or vibrant cityscapes, Türkiye has it all. In this blog post, we'll introduce you to five must-see places that promise to enrich your volunteer experience with unforgettable memories and profound insights into Türkiye’s diverse heritage.
Nemrut-Adıyaman
Why Visit?: Known as the "Place of the Gods," Mount Nemrut is home to the ancient ruins of a royal tomb sanctuary. This UNESCO World Heritage site features giant stone heads and statues that stand as silent sentinels over the surrounding landscape.
Highlights: Watching the sunrise or sunset over the mountaintop, which illuminates the statues with a golden glow, offering a truly mystical experience.
Gökçeada, Türkiye
Why Visit?: Often referred to as "Güneşin En Son Battığı Yer" or "The Last Place Where the Sun Sets," Gökçeada is the largest island of Türkiye. It offers unspoiled natural beauty, traditional Turkish villages, and stunning sunsets over the Aegean Sea.
Highlights: Exploring the pristine beaches, tasting local organic produce, and experiencing the island's unique cultural blend of Turkish and Greek heritage.
Saklıkent, Türkiye
Why Visit?: Saklıkent Gorge is one of the deepest and longest canyons in Türkiye. It is a natural wonder where towering cliffs, rushing waters, and lush greenery create a stunning landscape that is perfect for adventurous exploration.
Highlights: Trekking through the gorge, rafting on the fast-flowing river, and enjoying the cool respite from the summer heat amidst breathtaking natural beauty
Pamukkale, Türkiye
Why Visit?: Known as "Ege'nin Beyaz İncisi" or "The White Pearl of the Aegean," Pamukkale is famous for its stunning white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. This unique natural wonder is also home to the ancient Roman city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Highlights: Walking barefoot on the terraces, bathing in the thermal waters, and exploring the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, including the impressive amphitheater.
Zeugma, Türkiye
Why Visit?: Often called "Mozaik Kent" or "City of Mosaics," Zeugma is an ancient city located near Gaziantep. It is renowned for its intricate and well-preserved mosaics that depict scenes from mythology and daily life in ancient times. The Zeugma Mosaic Museum houses some of the most exquisite mosaic artworks in the world.
Highlights: Visiting the museum to see the famous "Gypsy Girl" mosaic, exploring the ancient ruins, and discovering the rich cultural history that dates back to the Roman and Hellenistic periods.
Nemrut-Adıyaman
Why Visit?: Known as the "Place of the Gods," Mount Nemrut is home to the ancient ruins of a royal tomb sanctuary. This UNESCO World Heritage site features giant stone heads and statues that stand as silent sentinels over the surrounding landscape.
Highlights: Watching the sunrise or sunset over the mountaintop, which illuminates the statues with a golden glow, offering a truly mystical experience.
Gökçeada, Türkiye
Why Visit?: Often referred to as "Güneşin En Son Battığı Yer" or "The Last Place Where the Sun Sets," Gökçeada is the largest island of Türkiye. It offers unspoiled natural beauty, traditional Turkish villages, and stunning sunsets over the Aegean Sea.
Highlights: Exploring the pristine beaches, tasting local organic produce, and experiencing the island's unique cultural blend of Turkish and Greek heritage.
Saklıkent, Türkiye
Why Visit?: Saklıkent Gorge is one of the deepest and longest canyons in Türkiye. It is a natural wonder where towering cliffs, rushing waters, and lush greenery create a stunning landscape that is perfect for adventurous exploration.
Highlights: Trekking through the gorge, rafting on the fast-flowing river, and enjoying the cool respite from the summer heat amidst breathtaking natural beauty
Pamukkale, Türkiye
Why Visit?: Known as "Ege'nin Beyaz İncisi" or "The White Pearl of the Aegean," Pamukkale is famous for its stunning white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. This unique natural wonder is also home to the ancient Roman city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Highlights: Walking barefoot on the terraces, bathing in the thermal waters, and exploring the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, including the impressive amphitheater.
Zeugma, Türkiye
Why Visit?: Often called "Mozaik Kent" or "City of Mosaics," Zeugma is an ancient city located near Gaziantep. It is renowned for its intricate and well-preserved mosaics that depict scenes from mythology and daily life in ancient times. The Zeugma Mosaic Museum houses some of the most exquisite mosaic artworks in the world.
Highlights: Visiting the museum to see the famous "Gypsy Girl" mosaic, exploring the ancient ruins, and discovering the rich cultural history that dates back to the Roman and Hellenistic periods.