Where to go in Türkiye: Google Map reveals 2024’s top picks

Google Maps has unveiled its much-anticipated list of Türkiye’s most searched attractions for 2024, highlighting the country’s captivating mix of historical landmarks, natural wonders, and cultural treasures.

With over 2 billion active users each month, Google Maps tracks global travel trends, offering a unique perspective on the most popular destinations among travelers.

This year’s rankings offer a fascinating glimpse into what visitors are most eager to explore in Türkiye, covering three primary categories: tourist attractions, parks, and museums. From the natural beauty of Pamukkale to the Galata Tower, the list showcases the rich cultural tapestry of Türkiye.

Top tourist attractions in Türkiye

The most searched tourist attractions of 2024 offer a blend of modern and ancient marvels:

• Galata Tower (Istanbul): A historical symbol of Istanbul, this medieval tower offers sweeping views of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn, making it one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Galata Tower, one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, was originally built by Byzantine Emperor Justinianos in 507-508 A.D. and later rebuilt by the Genoese in 1348. Used as a fire watchtower during the Ottoman era, it has undergone multiple restorations, including the addition of its famous cone-shaped roof by Sultan Mahmud II. The tower is also known for Hezarfen Ahmed Celebi’s legendary flight in the 17th century. Today, it serves as a museum and a major tourist attraction, offering panoramic views of the city and rich historical insights.
• Anitkabir (Ankara): The monumental mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye, draws visitors from around the world for both its historical significance and its impressive architectural design. The complex consists of several significant structures, including the Road of Lions, a 262-meter-long path lined with 24 Hittite-style lion statues representing power and unity; the Ceremonial Plaza, a vast open space used for national commemorations; and the Hall of Honor, where Ataturk’s sarcophagus lies beneath an imposing 40-ton monolithic stone.
• Basilica Cistern (Istanbul): Known for its mesmerizing columns and atmospheric lighting, this underground water reservoir offers a glimpse into the sophisticated engineering of the Byzantine Empire. Built in the sixth century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, this vast underground water reservoir was designed to supply water to the Great Palace of Constantinople and surrounding areas. The cistern covers an area of approximately 9,800 square meters and can hold up to 80,000 cubic meters of water. Today, the Basilica Cistern is a popular tourist attraction, offering a unique glimpse into Byzantine engineering. It has also been featured in popular culture, including the novel Inferno by Dan Brown and the James Bond film From Russia with Love.

Other notable attractions:

• Pamukkale Travertines (Denizli)
• Taksim Square (Istanbul)
• Manavgat Waterfall (Antalya)
• Side Ancient City (Antalya)
• Temple of Apollo (Antalya)
• Koza Han (Bursa)
• Duden Waterfalls (Antalya)
• Pierre Loti Hill (Istanbul)
• Ephesus Ancient City (Izmir)
• Canakkale Martyrs’ Memorial (Canakkale)
• Kemeralti Bazaar (Izmir)
• Izmir Historical Elevator (Izmir)
• Inkaya Historical Plane Tree (Bursa)
• Beyazit Square (Istanbul)
• Eski Foca Coast (Izmir)
• Damlatas Cave (Antalya)
• Tophane Clock Tower (Bursa)

Google Maps’ most popular parks in Türkiye

For nature lovers, Türkiye offers an array of parks that have captured the attention of travelers:

• Gulhane Park (Istanbul): Located in the historic Fatih district of Istanbul, Gulhane Park is one of the oldest and most beautiful parks in the city. Situated near Topkapi Palace, it was once part of the palace grounds and served as an imperial garden for the Ottoman sultans. Today, it is a beloved public park offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets of Istanbul. Visitors can enjoy scenic walking paths, lush greenery, and vibrant flower beds that change with the seasons. The park is especially stunning in spring when tulips bloom in a mesmerizing display of colors. Several historical landmarks are scattered throughout, including the Column of the Goths, a Roman-era monument. There are also cozy tea gardens and cafes where visitors can relax while taking in the picturesque surroundings.
• Emirgan Grove (Istanbul): Emirgan Grove (Emirgan Korusu) is a sprawling green oasis along the Bosphorus in Istanbul’s Sarıyer district. Covering an area of over 47 hectares, it is famous for its stunning tulip gardens, particularly during the Istanbul Tulip Festival, held every April. The park boasts centuries-old trees, charming wooden pavilions, and breathtaking views of the Bosphorus, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers alike. The park was originally an Ottoman imperial hunting ground before being transformed into a landscaped retreat. Today, it features well-maintained walking trails, picnic areas, and three historic mansions—the Yellow, White, and Pink Pavilions—which now serve as cafes and restaurants. Emirgan Grove is ideal for those looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle, whether for a leisurely stroll, a family picnic, or simply to admire the seasonal flowers.
• Saklikent National Park (Antalya): Nestled in the southwestern province of Antalya, Saklikent National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder known for its deep canyons, crystal-clear streams, and rugged terrain. The park is home to Saklikent Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in Türkiye, stretching 18 kilometers (11 miles) long and reaching depths of 300 meters (985 feet). During the summer, visitors can trek through the cool waters of the canyon, an unforgettable experience as the towering cliffs provide shade and a refreshing escape from the heat. The park is also a haven for adventure seekers, offering activities such as river rafting, canyoning, and zip-lining. Rich in biodiversity, the surrounding forests and cliffs are home to various bird species, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.

Other popular parks:

• Yildiz Park (Istanbul)
• Trabzon Meydan Park (Trabzon)
• Lower Duden Waterfall (Antalya)
• Genclik Park (Ankara)
• Alsancak Kordon (Izmir)
• Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden (Konya)
• Uludag National Park (Bursa)
• Kugulu Park (Ankara)
• Bahcesehir Pond (Istanbul)
• Caddebostan Coast (Istanbul)
• Kulturpark (Izmir)
• Karaalioglu Park (Antalya)
• Kultur Park (Bursa)
• Maltepe Coastal Parks (Istanbul)
• Kyoto Japanese Park (Konya)
• Beylikduzu Life Valley (Istanbul)

Top museums captivating travelers

Türkiye’s museums offer a journey through its rich cultural and historical heritage:

• Topkapi Palace Museum (Istanbul): Topkapi Palace, once the majestic heart of the Ottoman Empire, stands as one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Built in the mid-15th century by Sultan Mehmed II, the palace was the official residence and administrative center of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Today, Topkapi Palace Museum is home to an extraordinary collection of imperial treasures, including exquisite artifacts, calligraphy, ceramics, textiles, and weaponry. Notably, the museum houses the famous Topkapi Dagger and the Sacred Relics of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), adding to its immense historical and cultural value. The palace’s opulent courtyards, gardens, and panoramic views of the Bosphorus also make it a must-see destination for those interested in the grandeur of the Ottoman era.
• Mevlana Museum (Konya): The Mevlana Museum in Konya is one of Türkiye’s most significant cultural and spiritual sites. Dedicated to the life and teachings of the renowned Persian Sufi mystic, poet, and philosopher, Rumi, the museum stands as a testament to the profound impact of Sufism on both Turkish and world culture. Rumi’s tomb, situated within the museum complex, attracts millions of visitors from across the globe, seeking to understand his philosophy of love, peace, and unity. The museum also displays artifacts related to the life of Rumi and his followers, as well as Sufi music instruments, manuscripts, and traditional calligraphy. Additionally, the museum hosts the Whirling Dervishes ceremony, a captivating spiritual practice that symbolizes the journey toward divine love.
• Miniaturk (Istanbul): Miniaturk is a fascinating miniature park located along the Golden Horn in Istanbul, offering a unique opportunity to explore Türkiye’s rich architectural and historical heritage in one place. Covering an area of 60,000 square meters, Miniaturk features meticulously crafted models of over 100 famous landmarks and monuments from across Türkiye, including ancient ruins, mosques, palaces, and bridges. These miniature replicas allow visitors to marvel at the country’s diverse and rich history without having to travel across the entire country. The park is divided into sections representing different regions of Türkiye, with each model accompanied by informative plaques in multiple languages.

Other cultural sites and museums:

• Rahmi M. Koc Museum (Istanbul)

• Gobeklitepe (Sanliurfa)
• Zeugma Mosaic Museum (Gaziantep)
• Goreme Open-Air Museum (Nevsehir)
• Istanbul Archaeology Museums (Istanbul)
• Ephesus Archaeology Museum (Izmir)
• Beylerbeyi Palace (Istanbul)
• Harbiye Waterfall (Hatay)
• Kaymakli Underground City (Nevsehir)
• Ulucanlar Prison Museum (Ankara)
• Ataturk Mansion (Trabzon)
• Panorama 1453 History Museum (Istanbul)
• Anatolian Civilizations Museum (Ankara)
• Antalya Archaeology Museum (Antalya)
• Altınkoy Open-Air Museum (Ankara)
• Hierapolis (Pamukkale) Archaeological Site (Denizli)
• Bandirma Steamboat (Samsun)

Google Maps’ 2024 rankings highlight Türkiye’s top travel destinations, showcasing a diverse mix of historical landmarks, natural wonders and cultural hotspots.