Explore the travel destinations favored by locals in Türkiye

Türkiye's allure spans countless locations, from Istanbul's famed sites like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque to the sun-drenched beaches and vibrant bazaars of Izmir and the enchanting Cappadocia, known for its cave hotels and hot air balloon experiences. With so many options, choosing where to kick off your Turkish journey can be daunting. But if you're looking to immerse yourself in a more relaxed Türkiye through the locals' perspective, where should you go?

While many tourists flock to the Mediterranean coast's opulent resorts, a trip north along the scenic Aegean coast, which borders Greece, reveals hidden treasures loved by Turkish vacationers. Here, you can discover villages adorned with bougainvillea, wineries, historical sites, and breathtaking coastlines.

If you've ever been curious about how to vacation like a local in Türkiye, let three of our experts guide you to the must-see spots for your next summer getaway.

Aegean Island Dream: Bozcaada

Jennifer Hattam is a journalist residing in Istanbul.

Nestled just five miles off Türkiye's northwestern shore, the island of Bozcaada is blessed with refreshing winds from the Aegean Sea. It’s only a half-hour ferry ride from the mainland, yet its remoteness has allowed it to maintain much of its natural beauty and relaxed vibe.

As travelers arrive at the charming harbor, they are greeted by a majestic fortress that reflects the island's long history of habitation. I enjoy staying in the adjacent historic Greek Quarter, a lively and walkable neighborhood filled with restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and quaint hotels like the inviting Mitos Otel. While exploring the narrow backstreets, keep an eye out for the quirky local history museum located in a 19th-century stone building.

While prices and the island's allure for Turkish tourists have risen, enjoying great food and drink on Bozcaada is still effortless. Tiny Ada'm (“My Island”) offers inventive and delectable seafood and vegetable meze (sharing plates), while local wineries such as Talay, Corvus, Çamlıbağ, and Amadeus welcome visitors to their tasting rooms. Don't miss the open-air market near the harbor, where you can find homemade jams, hand-dried herbs, and other edible keepsakes.

I love to build up an appetite by swimming at the stunning Sulubahçe Plajı, while those seeking adventure can try kitesurfing at the long, breezy Çayır Plajı, just two of the island's beautiful beaches. This is a place where leisurely days are best enjoyed without a strict plan, but the vibrant Bozcaada Jazz Festival and the annual grape harvest celebration (Bağbozumu Festivali) in late summer offer extra incentives to visit.

Gökçeada: Türkiye's largest yet most tranquil island

Ömercan Kaçar is a writer focused on travel, culture, and history, hailing from Istanbul.

I once found island getaways a bit lackluster until I discovered Gökçeada, the largest island in Türkiye. Located at the entrance to the Gulf of Saros, just west of Gallipoli, this hidden gem recently drew me away from Istanbul with its promise of peace and unspoiled, breezy beaches.

While Gallipoli has long been a favored tourist spot, Gökçeada stayed relatively unknown until recent years, when Turkish families began to uncover its serene charm for their vacations.

Reaching the island is an enjoyable 1.5-hour ride by sea bus or ferry from Çanakkale. As you set foot on this island adorned with pristine bays and beaches, you'll instantly see why Gökçeada is known as the 'heavenly island.' Among its breathtaking coastal areas, two beaches stand out for their crystal-clear waters: Kefalos and Uğurlu. Secluded Kefalos Bay, with its windswept waters, is particularly a paradise for watersports enthusiasts like windsurfers and kitesurfers.

The Aegean coastline is generally the least commercialized, and on Gökçeada, you'll find many family-run pensions (guest houses). For an authentic island experience that truly reflects its character, consider staying at the Agios Hotel, a delightful family-owned establishment with stone architecture that embodies the island's relaxed yet inviting atmosphere.

What truly distinguishes Gökçeada is its deep-rooted Greek-Turkish heritage. It is also the birthplace of Bartholomew I, the Archbishop of Constantinople, who originated from the village of Zeytinliköy on the island. As you wander through the villages, you'll dive into a unique culture where Turks and Greeks live side by side in harmony. In Bademli village, with its quaint homes featuring floral window boxes, make sure to visit the open-air Sunday market, and later, enjoy dinner at Gün Batımı Restaurant, where you can savor fresh seafood while watching the sunset in this vibrant spot.

Discovering the serene side of the Mediterranean: Akyarlar

Ismet Esroy is a writer of travel guidebooks based in Izmir.

My family has owned a small timeshare for over 20 years, so I've been visiting Akyarlar on the Bodrum Peninsula. While Bodrum Town is well-known, especially among Turkish and Northern European tourists, Akyarlar provides a more relaxed atmosphere—an escape for those seeking a tranquil holiday in Bodrum away from the bustling summer crowds of the city.

Surrounded by the crystal-clear aqua waters of the Aegean Sea, there are plenty of swimming spots in the area. Karaincir, Akçabük, and Meteor are the most popular beaches and among my favorites, thanks to their pristine waters and various activities like kayaking and boat tours. The boat tours usually begin in the morning and continue into the evening, allowing you to explore different bays in the region.

Akyarlar presents a variety of accommodation options catering to different budgets and preferences. For example, Xanadu Island offers luxurious lodging, while La Brezza Suite & Hotel provides more affordable stays. Regardless of your choice, the sea will always be just a stone's throw away.

As for dining recommendations, my top pick in Akyarlar is Samsun Pidecisi Nuri Usta. This place is popular among locals for its delicious Black Sea-style pides, often referred to as Turkish pizza. My personal favorites are the 'Kapalı Kıymalı' (minced meat pide) and the 'Açık Pastırmalı' (pide topped with pastrami).