
Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Etimesgut, Ankara, Turkey
1. Cappadocia
Famous for hot air balloon rides and unique fairy chimneys.
- Natural Beauty: Offers a stunning natural landscape.
- Adventure Activities: Home to various adventure activities like hot air ballooning, hiking, and horseback riding.
- Unique Architecture: Features unique underground cities and cave hotels.
2. Konya
Home to the whirling dervishes and historical artifacts.
- Cultural Experience: Provides a unique cultural experience through the whirling dervish ceremony.
- Historical Significance: Boasts historical artifacts like the Mausoleum of Mevlana, a significant figure in Sufism.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Offers a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere for relaxation.
3. Aksaray
Known for the Ihlara Valley and Selime Monastery.
- Natural Wonders: Home to the breathtaking Ihlara Valley, one of Turkey's deepest canyons.
- Historical Sites: Includes historical sites like Selime Monastery and numerous Byzantine rock-cut churches.
- Hiking Opportunities: Offers excellent hiking opportunities through the Ihlara Valley.
4. Kutahya
Famous for its ceramics and the ancient city of Sardis.
- Craftsmanship: Known for its traditional ceramics craftsmanship.
- Historical Significance: Home to the ancient city of Sardis, once a major city of the Lydian Empire.
- Relaxation and Exploration: Provides opportunities for both relaxation and exploration.
5. Bursa
Known for its green landscapes, historical sites, and thermal baths.
- Natural Beauty: Offers a beautiful green landscape with mountainous terrain.
- Historical Sites: Boasts numerous historical sites like the Green Mosque and the Grand Mosque of Bursa.
- Wellness Activities: Provides thermal baths for wellness activities.
6. Bolu
Known for its Lake Abant and Bolu National Park.
- Natural Wonders: Features the scenic Lake Abant, surrounded by lush green forests.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers numerous outdoor activities like hiking and fishing in Bolu National Park.
- Relaxation: Provides a peaceful environment for relaxation.
7. Bandirma
A coastal city offering beaches and the Istanbul-Canakkale highway.
- Coastal Activities: Provides access to beautiful beaches for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
- Transportation Hub: Serves as a transportation hub connecting Istanbul and Canakkale.
- Scenic Drives: Offers scenic drives along the Istanbul-Canakkale highway.
8. Biga
A coastal town with sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
- Beach Activities: Offers a variety of beach activities like swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
- Natural Beauty: Features sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
- Seafood Cuisine: Known for its delicious fresh seafood dishes.
9. Izmir
A bustling city with a coastal location and historical sites.
- City Life: Offers a vibrant city life with modern amenities.
- Historical Sites: Boasts historical sites like the Ancient City of Ephesus and the Temple of Artemis.
- Coastal Activities: Provides access to beautiful beaches for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
10. Pergamon
Known for the Ancient City of Pergamon and the Asclepion.
- Historical Significance: Boasts the ancient city of Pergamon, once a major cultural center.
- Archaeological Sites: Includes the Asclepion, an ancient medical and healing center.
- Educational Opportunities: Provides educational opportunities through its historical sites.
11. Selcuk
A town near Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary.
- Historical Sites: Boasts historical sites like the Ancient City of Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary.
- Religious Significance: Holds religious significance due to the House of Virgin Mary.
- Cultural Experience: Provides a unique cultural experience through its historical sites.
12. Tavshan Lake
A beautiful lake perfect for camping, fishing, and birdwatching.
- Natural Beauty: Features a serene and picturesque landscape.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers activities like camping, fishing, and birdwatching.
- Relaxation: Provides a peaceful environment for relaxation.
13. Karacabey
A city offering thermal baths and a vibrant agricultural market.
- Wellness Activities: Provides thermal baths for relaxation.
- Local Produce: Features a vibrant agricultural market offering fresh produce.
- City Life: Offers a bustling city life with modern amenities.
14. Iznik
Known for its ceramics and the ancient city of Iznik.
- Craftsmanship: Known for its traditional ceramics craftsmanship.
- Historical Significance: Boasts the ancient city of Iznik, once a major city in the Ottoman Empire.
- Relaxation and Exploration: Provides opportunities for both relaxation and exploration.
15. Izmit Bay
A coastal city with beautiful beaches and modern amenities.
- Beach Activities: Offers a variety of beach activities like swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
- City Life: Provides a vibrant city life with modern amenities.
- Scenic Views: Features beautiful views of Izmit Bay.