Straddling the meeting point of Europe and Asia, Turkey is the birthplace of many civilizations, including
the Hittites and the Hellenes. The capital of the civilized world for many centuries, it was the home of
the Byzantine Empire and the first Christian state. Prior to conquer by the Ottomans in 1453, the Roman
city of Constantinople was the world's greatest cultural center. Given its extensive history, it's no
surprise that modern Turkey is a treasure trove of archaeological wonders, such as St. John's Ephesus and
Helene's Troy. While antiquity is likely to be the focus of some portion of your journey in Turkey,
relaxing on its beautiful beaches should also be a priority. But your options don't end here: You can also
trek in the mountains and valleys of central Anatolia, scuba dive off the Bodrum Peninsula, and explore
the quiet villages surrounding Antalya, the chief city on the Mediterranean central coast.
La
Paille, Cappadocia - These eleven restored troglodyte houses are located in the central region of Cappadocia, within the ancient village of Uçhisar. Here, the first Christians carved churches and dwellings out of the rock to evade invaders -
4 Bedrooms - $1,700-7,500
La Paille
Studio, Cappadocia - Cappadocia boasts a spectacular landscape of volcanic rock, spires, and needles. Apple, apricot, and mulberry trees flourish in fertile valleys -
1 Bedroom - $800-3,500
Villa
Ilhan, Bodrum - Travelers looking for solitude will love staying at this newly built, Mediterranean-style Turkish villa, which rests on the grounds of a working farm. The atmosphere is peaceful, with villagers tending their livestock and fruit trees nearby -
6 Bedrooms - $6,000-8,000
