On the Aegean coast in Turkey, between Selçuk and Kusadasi, is found one of the principal ancient sites of Asia Minor: that of Ephesus, which still has many ancient Greek and Roman remains today. Unfortunately, of the previously grand wonder of the world, you will only be able to admire a few fragments of columns...

The ancient site of Ephesus, from one temple to another

A cosmopolitan district of Istanbul, Kadiköy is one of the most lively areas of the mega-city. An authentic atmosphere blending modern impulses with its young population thrilling the old warriors looking to merge into the crowds.

Authentic promenade in the districts of Kadiköy

Hasankeyf is in south-eastern Turkey, a very small city containing numerous natural and human wonders. Associated with a rich, ancient history, the diverse geological and archaeological particularities definitely make this village a place to visit. You must visit Hasankeyf as quickly as possible, because a dam project will soon completely cover this little gem.

Hasankeyf, ephemeral splendour.

Classed under World Heritage by Unesco for its numerous Ottoman houses, Safranbolu has conserved the charm of its old cities. Famous for its saffron, it is pleasant to wander its paved streets, to admire its aqueduct or to go and explore the caves of Bulak, nearby.

Safranbolu, the saffron city

Izmir

Bergama

Selçuk

Ephesus

Located in the neighbourhood of the same name, Beylerbeyi Palace is the Sultan and his family's summer residence.

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On the banks of the Bosphorus strait (Bogaziçi in Turkish), stands Beylerbeyi Palace. This edifice in white marble hides behind a screen of foliage. Commissioned by Sultan Abdulaziz, the palace was built in the late 19th century, in French Baroque style. Beylerbeyi Sarayi served both as the Sultan's summer residence and to host visiting foreign heads of state. Note that Empress Eugénie of France was received there in that capacity.
The palace is composed of a ground floor and two storeys. Each room is richly adorned with French clocks, porcelain from the four corners of the globe and magnificent carpets. Nonetheless, it was the Bohemian crystal chandeliers that really caught my attention. Though this mixture of styles may not suit everybody's taste, I'm sure anyone could find a few objects suitable for Mother-in-law's next birthday!
Smaller and less well-known than Dolmabahçe Palace, I preferred Beylerbeyi Palace. You should, however, include a visit of one or the other during your stay in Turkey. Note that the palace only offers guided tours, so you will not be able to linger. And if you have a little time to spare, admire the gardens or push on to the Beylerbeyi quarter for a meal.

If you are looking for a relatively short, peaceful trip, I advise you to go to the Beylerbeyi Palace. Neither very well known nor frequently visited, the Beylerbeyi Palace is a little gem of the Ottoman Empire. 
I remember being amazed by the sumptuous stairway and by its crystal chandelier, by its garden, large and magnificent, and by the panoramic view of Bosphorus. At the end of the visit, I enjoyed sitting in the cool, in the cafe, next to the pond and in the shadow of centuries-old trees.
Before leaving the region of Beylerbeyi, I advise you to to discover its streets, cafés and restaurants. If you have the time, a slight detour to the region's Turkish bath might be of interest?

The Beylerbeyi Palace is the old residence of the Sultans. It's at the food of the main Bosphorus Bridge, on the Asian side, in the region of Beylerbeyi. This palace is a small version of the <a href="http://www.dolmabahcepalace.com/" target="_blank" data-mce-href="http://www.dolmabahcepalace.com/">Dolmabahce Palace</a>, which welcomes a swarm of tourists.

Beylerbeyi Holidays

Beylerbeyi: What to see nearby?

Turkey: our articles for your holidays