Autumn Journey: 4 Must-See Places in Türkiye

19.09.2025

5 Dakika

The crunch of fallen leaves, the cool breeze on your cheek, the gentle whistle of a teapot… All whisper that autumn arrives, starting a new story for everyone. For some, it begins with the calm of a walk in the rain; for others, with the peace of getting lost in books; and for many, with the thrill of chasing the perfect golden-hour shot.

So, how does your autumn story begin? Maybe it starts with a quiet call to explore, change, and rediscover yourself. If that feeling is growing but you're unsure where to begin, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Whether you want to capture breathtaking views, find silence in nature, discover artistry in ancient stones, or travel deep into history, there’s a place for you.

If you’re ready to write your own autumn story, come along as we discover 4 unique destinations. Who knows—maybe the beginning you’re looking for is right here.

Cappadocia

1. Cappadocia (Nevşehir)

The story of Cappadocia's iconic fairy chimneys began millions of years ago, as volcanic eruptions left behind layers of tuff that were then shaped by wind and water. Every season paints them in different hues, but in autumn, they glow with unique tones. Among these formations, accompanied by churches, underground cities, and rock-carved structures, transforms Cappadocia into a cultural landscape.

The rock-hewn churches of Göreme and its surroundings reveal that from the 4th century onward, the region was a vital refuge and settlement for Christian communities. Today, the Göreme Open-Air Museum—with the Tokalı, Elmalı, and Karanlık Churches—offers not only remarkable examples of religious life and artistry but also frames of history waiting to be captured by your camera.

While nature writes the story of Cappadocia, why shouldn't Cappadocia write yours? Perhaps by chasing the light at sunrise, or by walking the paths of Cappadocia in the footsteps of a thousand-year-old culture.

Termessos

2. Termessos Archaeological Site (Antalya)

Perched on the steep slopes of Mountain Güllük and standing over 1,000 meters above sea level, Termessos offers a tranquil atmosphere for those seeking to escape the noise and reconnect with nature.

Known as the “unconquered city,” Termessos defended itself not only with strong walls but also through its harmony with the surrounding landscape. The agora, necropolis, cisterns, and theater that remain today tell the story of a community that lived in balance with nature centuries ago. The theater, carved into the rocky hillside and framed by the Taurus Mountains, creates a scene that soothes anyone who gazes upon it.

If you're a traveler who always carries a notebook, the first lines you write while resting on the stone steps of the theater, overlooking the Taurus Mountains, may well become the beginning of your autumn story.

Aphrodisias

3. Aphrodisias (Aydın)

Afrodisias, on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is named after Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. More than just a place of worship, Aphrodisias was a city of art, thought, and aesthetics. With its school of sculpture and the artists who left their mark across both Anatolia and the Roman Empire, it is known as one of the most important art centers of the ancient world.

Aphrodisias preserves traces of the past not only through its remarkable sculptures but also with its grand architectural remains. The Temple of Aphrodite, the Tetrapylon, the Sebasteion, the theater, the basilica, the bouleuterion, and its stadium—one of the largest in the ancient world with a capacity of around 30,000 people—all reflect the city’s magnificence and the stories it tells. The Sebasteion reliefs show the blend of mythology and imperial propaganda, fixed in stone.

In autumn, walking through Aphrodisias feels like hearing the voice of art and philosophy echoing among the stones. Perhaps, your story begins with rediscovering beauty and aesthetics.

Aizanoi

4. Aizanoi Archaeological Site (Kütahya)

Aizanoi, one of the region’s major religious, commercial, and social centers during the Roman period, has been listed on UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List since 2012. The Temple of Zeus—one of the best-preserved Roman temples in Anatolia—stands as a striking testament not only to the spiritual life of the era but also to its architectural brilliance. Surrounding the temple, the agora, macellum, theater, stadium, and colonnaded streets reveal traces of daily life in this once-vibrant city.

If you are drawn to the stories of the past, Aizanoi offers a bridge through time. As you wander through these ancient structures today, it’s easy to imagine the merchants trading in the marketplace, the crowds cheering in the stadium, or the citizens strolling along the colonnaded streets. In autumn, the stillness adds another layer transforming the visit from a simple exploration into a personal journey of reflection.

Autumn becomes a different story with every step. For some, it’s about capturing nature’s enchanting frames; for others, the silence of the mountains; for many, the artistry carved into stone or a journey into the heart of history. Whichever story you choose, autumn is ready to write it in its own colors. And if many more journeys are waiting to be discovered, click here to explore our other blogs.

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