Top Tourist Destinations in Turkey for Pakistani Travellers

 

Turkey has become one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world, welcoming over 59 million foreign visitors in 2024, a new national record. Istanbul is now among the most visited cities globally, and Antalya is ranked among the top beach destinations.

For travellers from Pakistan, Turkey offers an ideal mix of history, Islamic heritage, natural beauty, shopping, and modern city life. With convenient flights from major cities in Pakistan and an efficient e-Visa system, planning a Turkey tour has never been easier.

In this guide, Malik Express Travel and Tours highlights the top tourist destinations in Turkey, along with practical tips and how our team can help you plan a smooth, memorable trip.

Why Choose Turkey for Your Next Holiday?

• Short and convenient flights from Pakistan
• Strong cultural and historical links with the Muslim world
• Halal food easily available almost everywhere
• World class infrastructure, hotels, and shopping
• Diverse experiences: history, beaches, mountains, city life, nightlife, and nature

Whether you are planning a honeymoon, family vacation, or group tour, Turkey has something for everyone.

1. Istanbul - The Heart of Turkey

Istanbul is the cultural and economic capital of Turkey and one of the most visited cities in the world. It is the only city that sits on both Europe and Asia, separated by the beautiful Bosphorus Strait.

Highlights in Istanbul

• Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque in Sultanahmet
• Topkapi Palace, home of Ottoman sultans
• Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar for traditional shopping
• Bosphorus cruise with stunning views of palaces and bridges
• Istiklal Street and Taksim Square for dining, cafes, and nightlife
• Galata Tower for panoramic city views

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to early November) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Travel Tips

• Stay in Sultanahmet for history and easy access to major landmarks.
• Stay around Taksim and Karakoy for shopping, nightlife, and modern city vibes.
• Buy an Istanbulkart for easy access to trams, metros, and ferries.

How Malik Express Can Help

Malik Express can arrange:

• Return flights from Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, and other cities
• Hotel bookings in central areas close to major attractions
• Guided tours of the Old City, Bosphorus cruise, and full day city tours
• Airport transfers and local transport arrangements

2. Cappadocia - Land of Fairy Chimneys and Hot Air Balloons

Cappadocia is one of the most unique landscapes in the world, famous for its rock formations, cave hotels, and the iconic sunrise hot air balloons.

Top Things to Do in Cappadocia

• Sunrise hot air balloon ride over fairy chimneys
• Visit Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Explore underground cities such as Derinkuyu or Kaymakli
• Trek through valleys like Red Valley, Rose Valley, and Love Valley
• Stay in a traditional cave hotel for a unique experience

Best Time to Visit

April to June and September to October, when the weather is mild and skies are clear for balloon flights.

Travel Tips

• Book your hot air balloon ride in advance, as seats sell out quickly.
• Pack comfortable shoes for walking and hiking in valleys.
• Nights can be cool even in summer, so carry a light jacket.

How Malik Express Can Help

• Return domestic flights or bus transfers from Istanbul to Cappadocia
• Pre-booked hot air balloon experiences
• Cave hotel options to match your budget
• Full day regional tours with English speaking guides

3. Antalya - Beaches, Resorts, and the Turquoise Coast

Antalya is the heart of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, famous for its sandy beaches, luxury resorts, and family friendly atmosphere.

Highlights in Antalya

• Kaleici Old Town with cobbled streets and historic houses
• Konyaalti and Lara beaches for sun and sea
• Duden and Kursunlu waterfalls
• Day trips to Aspendos and Perge ancient ruins
• All inclusive resorts suitable for families and honeymooners

Best Time to Visit

May to October is ideal for beach holidays. July and August are the hottest and most crowded months.

Travel Tips

• Select an all inclusive resort if you want a relaxed, hassle free stay.
• Combine Antalya with Istanbul and Cappadocia for a complete Turkey experience.
• Use local buses or trams, or book private transfers for convenience.

How Malik Express Can Help

• Tailor made Turkey beach holiday packages
• Resort recommendations based on your budget and preferences
• Airport transfers and optional day excursions

4. Pamukkale and Hierapolis - White Terraces and Thermal Springs

Pamukkale is known for its white travertine terraces formed by calcium rich thermal waters. Above the terraces lies Hierapolis, an ancient Roman spa city.

What to See in Pamukkale

• Walk on the terraced pools of Pamukkale
• Swim in the warm, mineral rich Cleopatra Pools
• Explore Hierapolis Theatre and ancient ruins

Travel Tips

• Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat and crowds.
• Bring a swimsuit if you plan to bathe in the thermal pools.
• Only walk barefoot on the terraces to protect the formations.

How Malik Express Can Help

• Day trips or overnight tours from Istanbul, Antalya, or Cappadocia
• Combined itineraries including Pamukkale and nearby cities

5. Fethiye and Oludeniz - Blue Lagoon and Paragliding

Fethiye on the Aegean coast is a favourite for nature and adventure lovers. The nearby Oludeniz Blue Lagoon is one of the most photographed beaches in the world.

Top Experiences

• Relax at Oludeniz Blue Lagoon
• Paragliding from Mount Babadag with breathtaking sea views
• Island boat tours from Fethiye harbour
• Sea kayaking and exploring hidden coves

Travel Tips

• Book paragliding only with licensed operators.
• Choose a full day boat trip with lunch included for better value.
• Consider visiting in May, June, September, or October for pleasant weather.

6. Bodrum - Turkish Riviera and Nightlife

Bodrum is a stylish coastal town known for its marina, nightlife, and luxury resorts, often called the Turkish Riviera.

Highlights in Bodrum

• Bodrum Castle and Museum of Underwater Archaeology
• Marina promenade with cafes and restaurants
• Beach clubs and lively nightlife
• Boat trips along the coast and nearby islands
• Bodrum suits couples and groups who want a mix of relaxation and entertainment.

7. Trabzon and Uzungol - Green Highlands and Cool Summers

In recent years, Trabzon and Uzungol have become very popular with travellers from Pakistan and the Gulf due to their cool climate, green hills, and scenic lakes.

Highlights

• Uzungol Lake, surrounded by forests and mountains
• Sumela Monastery, built into a cliff
• Tea plantations and local villages
• Cooler temperatures in summer compared to coastal cities

Travel Tips

• Ideal for families and travellers looking to escape summer heat.
• Combine Trabzon with Istanbul for a two centre holiday.

8. Bursa and Uludag - History and Snow

Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, is an easy trip from Istanbul and offers a mix of history, markets, and mountain scenery.

Highlights

• Grand Mosque and historic bazaars
• Traditional Turkish hammams
• Uludag Mountain for skiing and snow activities in winter
• Cable car ride with beautiful views
• Bursa is excellent for a day trip or a short overnight stay, especially in winter.

9. Konya - City of Rumi

Konya is known as the city of Jalaluddin Rumi, making it a spiritual destination for many Muslim travellers.

Highlights

• Mevlana Museum, where Rumi’s tomb is located
• Traditional Sema ceremonies of whirling dervishes
• Historical mosques and caravanserais
• Konya can be visited as a stop between Cappadocia and the coastal cities.

10. Ephesus and Kusadasi - Ancient History by the Sea

For history lovers, Ephesus is one of the best preserved ancient cities in the world. Many Turkey travel guides list it as a must visit destination.

Highlights

• Library of Celsus and Great Theatre
• Ruins of temples, houses, and streets from ancient times
• Nearby coastal town Kusadasi with beaches and resorts

Sample Itineraries for Turkey from Pakistan

7 Day Classic Turkey Tour

• Day 1-3: Istanbul
• Day 4-5: Cappadocia
• Day 6: Pamukkale
• Day 7: Return to Istanbul and fly back to Pakistan

10 Day Turkey Highlights Tour

• Day 1-3: Istanbul
• Day 4-6: Cappadocia
• Day 7-8: Antalya
• Day 9: Pamukkale
• Day 10: Return to Istanbul and fly back

Malik Express can customise these itineraries based on your budget, interests, and travel dates.

Practical Travel Tips for Turkey Visitors from Pakistan

1. Visa and Travel Documents

• Many Pakistani travellers apply for a Turkey visa or e-Visa depending on eligibility and travel history.
• Malik Express provides visa guidance and documentation support to help you apply correctly.

2. Best Time to Visit

• April to June and September to early November are ideal for sightseeing.
• June to September is best for beaches in Antalya, Fethiye, Bodrum, and Marmaris.
• December to March is the season for snow activities in Uludag and other ski resorts.

3. Halal Food and Prayer Facilities

• Turkey is a Muslim majority country, so halal food is widely available.
• Mosques and prayer areas can be found easily in all major cities.

4. Money and Payments

• Local currency is Turkish lira.
• Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, shops, and restaurants in major cities.
• Always keep some cash for small shops, taxis, and local markets.

5. Local Transport

• Major cities like Istanbul and Ankara have modern public transport systems.
• Domestic flights connect cities like Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, and Trabzon efficiently.
• Malik Express can arrange airport transfers, domestic flights, and private tours.

6. Clothing and Etiquette

• Dress modestly when visiting mosques. Women may need to cover hair, shoulders, and knees.
• Remove shoes before entering mosque prayer halls.
• Respect local customs and follow basic travel etiquette.

Why Book Your Turkey Trip with Malik Express Travel and Tours?

With more than 35 years of experience in the travel industry, Malik Express Travel and Tours in Islamabad, Pakistan offers complete Turkey travel solutions, including:

• International flights from Pakistan to Turkey
• Domestic flights and transport inside Turkey
• Hotel and resort bookings in all major cities and coastal areas
• Fully guided city tours and multi city packages
• Visa guidance and documentation support
• Travel insurance for a safe and secure trip
• Customised itineraries for honeymoons, family trips, and group tours

Our team understands the needs of Pakistani travellers and works with reliable partners in Turkey to provide comfortable, halal friendly, and well planned holidays.

Plan Your Turkey Holiday Today

Turkey continues to grow as one of the world’s leading tourist destinations, with record visitor numbers and new attractions being developed every year.

Whether you want to walk through the historic streets of Istanbul, float above Cappadocia in a hot air balloon, relax on Antalya’s beaches, or escape to the green highlands of Trabzon, Malik Express Travel and Tours is ready to design the perfect Turkey package for you.

Contact Malik Express today to start planning your Turkey tour from Pakistan and turn your dream holiday into reality.