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There is a lot to say about Istanbul and 99% are sincere compliments.
But that small 1% mainly has to do with the enormous waves of crowds that gather in this vibrant, historic city.
A lot can be said about Paris too, but one thing is certain: Istanbul has been crowned the most visited city in the world, overtaking the French icon.
Yes, that’s right. This remote city has risen to new heights, making it the perfect opportunity to explore Turkiye, one of the most fascinating countries in the world.
As we transition into fall, travelers essentially flip a coin, deciding between colorful photo ops of the foliage or visiting a beautiful beach.
Turkiye has some incredible beaches, but perhaps the most unique is Urla, also called the ‘Tuscany of Turkiye’.
Wine and dine by the sea in Turkiye’s trendy Izmir
It’s time for Turkiye to have his moment, but this goes beyond the typical 15 minutes of fame.
Turkiye is a beautiful place to visit, and the more it reveals, the more it becomes a huge draw for travelers around the world.
After being hyped by Lonely Planet, it’s now the turn of Izmir, a coastal area bordering the beautiful Aegean Sea and rightly called the ‘Pearl of the Aegean’.
Within Izmir lies the lesser-known Urla, but let’s change that, okay?
Tuscany is one of those unique destinations that is impossible to copy. Not just any wine destination can be placed in the same sentence, but Urla passes the atmosphere check and so much more.
Extensive beautiful vineyards? Bill!
Incredible cuisine? You better arrive hungry!
Mediterranean charm? Absolute!
Beaches with blue water? For miles and miles!
Better yet, Urla is very affordable. Enjoy all the beauty this coastal town has to offer without worrying about your bank account.
Many trendy Urla restaurants are Michelin Guide, including OD Urlawhere a fresh twist on French cuisine is served. Again Turkiye says: “Take that, Paris!”.
Turkiye’s beloved wine destination
Can you find good wine in Istanbul? Yes.
Can you find good wine in Istanbul? Yes, but the best selection is probably imported from Urla.
Just as you can score decadent seafood in, say, Chicago, why not go straight to the source for the highest quality?
Urla is a typical ‘wine country’, apart from the fact that it is not limited to the interior; it extends to the scenic coast.
If you were to visit Napa Valley it would be beautiful, but wouldn’t the experience be increased tenfold on a beautiful beach in California?
The same goes for Urla, which has the added bonus of being set on the beautiful Aegean Sea. Tourists can eat and drink in paradise, but let’s stick to the wine.
Wineries dot the menu like a bad case of measles, but this is a travel itch you’ll be happy to scratch.
Known as the Urla Wine Routeyour options seem endless.
According to TripAdvisorthese are Urla’s top 3 wineries to visit in 2024:
- Urla Winery
- MMG Sarapcilik
- Hus Winery
So what stands out the most? Well, they all have rave reviews from recent customers, but the location of MMG Sarapcilik is unbeatable!
This traditional family business still uses proven methods, such as manual pressing, to produce the best wine possible.
Although you are tucked away from the scenic coast, you don’t have to worry. No views are sacrificed here.
Surprise your taste buds with Sauvs, Syrahs and Chards, surrounded by lush greenery, olive groves and miles of views.
Swap red and white for beautiful blue water
There are few places that are as attractive, if not more attractive, to head inland as staying around the beaches.
That is no negative for the beautiful coasts of Urla; it’s more of a compliment than anything.
Urla sees its fair share of visitors gathering on its beaches, but many agree that getting out on the water is the best way to enjoy the aquatic beauty of this beautiful city.
Popular beaches such as Kum Denizi Plaji are fun for lounging, but renting a boat or enjoying the epic views from your beach hotel may be more rewarding.
Urla is dotted with lovely boutique hotels overlooking the immense sea, making heading to the marina all the more enticing book a boat trip.
Or simply walk through the charming local streets, many of which offer beautiful views of the Aegean Sea.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
