Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Turkey’s unique location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia makes it the perfect starting point for discovering some of the most diverse and exciting destinations nearby.The places to visit near Turkey range from the scenic coastlines of Greece to the ancient monasteries of Armenia and the striking skyline of Azerbaijan. These neighbouring countries are rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, and easily reachable by land, air, or sea. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural discovery, these destinations offer unforgettable experiences just beyond Turkey’s borders.
10 Places To Visit Near Turkey
Places to visit near Turkey offer a vibrant mix of culture, landscapes, and fun and awe-inspiring historical wonders just outside of Turkey.
1. Greece
Slightly across the Aegean Sea lies Greece, which is a fascinating adventure of ancient history, the rich and colourful island living with a dash of Mediterranean delicacy. Whether it is the port city of Thessaloniki or the famous ruins of Athens, every region has its charm. The Greek islands Rhodes, Kos, and Lesbos are particularly accessible along the Turkish coast and have sun-kissed beaches and rustic villages as well as centuries-old monasteries. Archaeological sites on mainland Greece include the Parthenon, Delphi, and the cliffside monasteries of Meteora. The Greek cuisine, including such things as souvlaki, moussaka, and feta, makes all visitors enjoy it.
Known For: Islands, ancient ruins, Mediterranean food
Nearest Airport: Athens International Airport
2. Bulgaria
Photo: Raggatt2000 / Wikimedia Commons
Bulgaria lies on the northern border of Turkey, with direct connections and an easy and rewarding vacation filled with natural scenery, breathtaking history, and pure culture. The capital, Sofia, has an interesting array of Orthodox churches, Roman ruins, and Ottoman architecture. The city of Plovdiv is the oldest in Europe, as it is six thousand years old, and attracts visitors with its Roman amphitheatre and colourful Old Town. To sun seekers, the Black Sea coast promises sunny resorts such as Varna and Burgas. Bulgaria is also a winter resort, and Bansko and Borovets are among the most popular ski resorts.
Known For: Monasteries, mountains, beaches
Nearest Airport: Sofia International Airport
3. Georgia
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Georgia is one of the beautiful places to visit near Turkey that offers stunning mountains of the Caucasus mountain range, rich Christian culture, and is surrounded by very hospitable people, located to the northeast of Turkey. Tbilisi, the capital, has colourful balconies, cobblestones, and Narikala, the most famous fortress. Just outside town is Mtskheta, the place with historic cathedrals regarded as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Kazbegi is a hiking destination and an adventure destination to view Mount Kazbek. The lovers of wine need to go to Kakheti, which is one of the oldest winemaking regions in the world.
Known For: Mountains, wine, orthodox churches
Nearest Airport: Tbilisi International Airport
4. Armenia
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Armenia is one of the incredible places to see near Turkey for its ancient monasteries, rugged mountains, and deep historical roots. The capital, Yerevan, is an intriguing mix of Soviet-era charm and coffee/café culture, with beautiful views of Mount Ararat. Just outside the city, visitors can check out the rock-carved Geghard Monastery and the Greco-Roman Temple of Garni. Lake Sevan is a peaceful place to relax, and Dilijan is sometimes called “Armenian Switzerland,” which is obvious when outside in its rich forests and trails. Armenia is one of the oldest Christian countries in the world, and it is miraculous to see spiritual sites like Khor Virap and Tatev Monastery.
Known For: Monasteries, lakes, ancient temples
Nearest Airport: El Edén International Airport
5. Cyprus
Photo: Michal Klajban / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most scenic attractions near Turkey, Cyprus, will provide them with a Mediterranean experience of sun, history, and cultural fusion. It is an island state with a mixture of Greek and Turkish cultures, which can be observed in its capital, Nicosia, divided into two cities where you may visit the Selimiye mosque, museums, etc., and the Venetian style. There are Roman ruins, ancient mosaics, and beach resorts on the southern coast, including Limassol and Paphos, and northern towns such as Kyrenia and Famagusta bedazzle visitors with Ottoman harbours and mediaeval castles. The Troodos Mountains are characterised by cool forest and mountain monasteries.
Known For: Beaches, ruins, mixed culture
Nearest Airport: Larnaca International Airport
6. North Macedonia
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
North Macedonia is a lesser-known yet rewarding tourist attractions near Turkey. A small country, North Macedonia is a landlocked and Balkan gem with stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Skopje is the capital city and a photographer’s dream with a juxtaposition of Ottoman bazaars, Byzantine churches, and neoclassical monuments. Lake Ohrid is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is the crown jewel of the country; swimming, boating, and visiting lakeside monasteries such as Saint Naum offer relaxation for travellers. The Matka Canyon, a few kilometres from Skopje, is perfect for hiking and kayaking.
Known For: Lakes, churches, Balkan culture
Nearest Airport: Skopje International Airport
7. Serbia
Photo: Milica Spasojevic / Unsplash
Serbia is amongst the most culturally rich places to visit near Turkey, which is perfect for those people wishing to have both a bright urban lifestyle and a vast history. Belgrade, the capital, is famous for its vibrant nightlife, historic fortress Kalemegdan, and Sava and Danube riverside walks. Travel to Novi Sad because it is laid-back, has a Petrovaradin fortress, and the incredible globally-renowned EXIT music festival. NiSh provides access to Roman ruins and Old Turkish buildings in southern Serbia. The surrounding villages have monasteries, vineyards, and national parks, such as Tara and Đerdap (Iron Gates Gorge).
Known For: Nightlife, history, river cruises
Nearest Airport: Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport
8. Iran
Photo: Morteza F.Shojaei / Unsplash
Iran is one of the most deeply cultured places to visit near Turkey, and a visit here includes a trip through ancient empires, Islamic art, and colourful traditions. The capital city of Tehran displays a combination of high-rise modern buildings and ancient palaces such as Golestan. Head south to Isfahan city to see the architecture of the Safavid times, particularly Naqsh-e Jahan square and the Shah Mosque. The city of Shiraz is fascinating with its poetic traditions, the rich interior of Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, and the nearby Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire.
Known For: Mosques, Persian history, bazaars
Nearest Airport: Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport
9. Lebanon
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Lebanon has been ranked among the most culturally diverse and geographically attractive places to visit near Turkey; this tiny country is a patch of land where 800 km of coast, a collection of ancient cities, and mountainous retreats merge. The capital, Beirut, is full of life, nightlife, art, and cafe society, all against the backdrop of survival and adaptation. Go to one of the oldest cities in the world, visit the Roman temples in Baalbek, or traverse the cedar forests of the Chouf Mountain. Another highlight of a visit to Lebanon will be its food, which is known to be the best in Middle Eastern countries, with their mezze, hummus, and grilled meat dishes.
Known For: Roman ruins, coastlines, Lebanese cuisine
Nearest Airport: Rafic Hariri International Airport
10. Azerbaijan
Photo: Dario Daniel Silva / Unsplash
One of the most interesting and visually appealing places to visit near Turkey is the country of Azerbaijan, which represents an impressive mix of the East and the West. Having its capital Baku, located in the Caspian Sea, it can stun its visitors with the combination of the latest futuristic skyscrapers, such as the Flame Towers, and the ancient and UNESCO-listed Old City (Icherisheher). In the Baku suburbs, you should watch the bizarre sights of natural processes of mud volcanoes and the ever-burning hill of Yanar Dag. Cities such as Sheki and Lahij, inland, offer mountain landscapes, old crafts, and Silk Road architecture that still exists there.
Known For: Modern architecture, mud volcanoes, Caspian coast
Nearest Airport: Heydar Aliyev International Airport
These places to visit near Turkey offer an incredible mix of culture, cuisine, and landscapes just beyond the border. Explore Greece’s ancient ruins, Georgia’s snow-capped Caucasus Mountains, or the vibrant city life in Baku. Even lesser-known spots like Abkhazia bring a unique charm. Whether you’re planning a short weekend trip or a longer cross-border adventure, these nearby countries are worth the journey. Ready to go further? Plan it all with TripXL today.
Cover Photo: Mike Swigunski / Unsplash
