Ramadan in Turkey: Enjoy Ramadan Month in These Top 15 Turkish Cities

Ramadan is undoubtedly one of the holiest months in the Islamic calendar. If you are celebrating Ramadan in Turkey, you must know that this country celebrates this month with great joy, love and devotion. During Ramadan, you can enjoy a pleasant time with your family and friends. If you are looking forward to visiting Turkey anytime soon, you must know that it is the best time. Usually, between March to June is considered the best time to visit this country. Here, we have mentioned everything you need to know about Ramadan and places that you can visit in Turkey. So, what are we waiting for? Let’s delve in and embrace the best spirit of Ramadan.

Ramadan in Turkey: Significance & Fasting Rules

Significance:

Before we know about the top 15 cities to celebrate Ramadan in Turkey, it is essential to know the significance of this divine month. During this month, Muslim devotees fast all day and follow their religious values. For the unversed, the month of Ramadan differs every year because of the moon phases. According to Islam, Laylat al-Qadar (Night of Destiny) is considered as the holiest night of the year, it is known as the night of forgiveness and great blessings.

As per the Islamic calender, during the last ten days of Ramadan, the holy “Quran” was introduced to the Prophet Muhammad.

Fasting Rules:

Fasting is mandatory for all Muslim adults during this divine month. However, for young children, it is not mandatory to fast. Even adults who are not physically or mentally fit can skip fast. As per Ramadan traditions in Turkey, the fast starts with “Fajr” and ends with “Maghrib”; this rule is followed worldwide by Muslim devotees. Before starting the fast, Muslim devotees have a meal which is known as “Suhoor” or “Sehri”. Fast ends at sunset with grand “Iftar”, featuring dishes like succulent kebabs, rich biryanis and refreshing drinks on every day of Ramadan. People usually host an Iftar party to break their fast with family and friends. Since we are talking about the fasting rules, it is essential to know that people who somehow missed a fast can go for “Fidya” (a form of charity). In this way, you can make up for your Ramadan fast. However, having an intention to fast without performing any sinful act is of utmost importance.

Now, let’s move ahead towards extravagant Ramadan celebrations in Turkish cities. Ramadan dates in Turkey are from 1st March to 29th March.

Top 15 Cities to Celebrate Ramadan in Turkey

For the past few years, the Ramadan culture has been vibrantly visible in Turkey. The month of Ramadan in Turkey is one of the best months for tourists to visit this alluring country. However, if you want to visit Turkey but are unsure which city to explore, here we have compiled a list of the top 15 cities. These Turkish cities dazzle throughout the month of Ramadan. You can admire the serene ambience, roam through the city streets and enjoy a heavenly Ramadan feast in Turkey. Believe it or not, these cities are the true appearance of Turkish tradition, religious beliefs and culture.

Istanbul
Bursa
Ankara
Izmir
Kayseri
Adana
Antalya
Konya
Gaziantep
Mersin
Trabzon
Samsun
Diyarbakir
Adiyaman
Eskisehir

1. Istanbul

Istanbul counts as one of the major cities of Turkey. It not only counts as the most populated Turkey city, but it’s always been a center of attraction for global tourists. This Ramadan, if you are visiting Turkey, your trip can’t be completed without visiting Istanbul. This beautiful city is a bridge between Asia and Europe. Due to its geographical location on the Bosporus Strait, it connects Asia and Europe. Istanbul is picturesque with beautiful mosques, stunning street markets and vibrant evenings. During Ramadan holidays in Turkey, you can visit the Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, Bosporus River cruise, Sultan Ahmed Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and many other places to experience the traditional value of Ramadan. At Sultanahmet Square, you can enjoy delicious Iftar feasts, which are organized in the open air.

Best Time to Visit: March to November

2. Bursa

Bursa is in the Marmara region of Turkey. This city is famous for its historic architecture and natural beauty. It has the world’s largest 360-degree panoramic museum, The Panorama 1326 Museum. You can visit this city even if you stay in Istanbul; it hardly takes an hour to reach here from Istanbul. However, amid Ramadan, it would be better if you spend an entire day in this city enjoying its natural springs. Bursa is also famous for Oylat thermal spring and hot springs, which are must-see places in Turkey. Ulu Cami, a grand mosque, brightens up during Ramadan as people gather for their Namaz. It is on of the best places to visit in Turkey.

Best Time to Visit: March to November

3. Ankara

Ankara is the capital city of Turkey, famous for its historic landmarks and divine Ramadan celebrations. If you are celebrating Ramadan in Turkey, Ankara is a must-visit city. Here, you can enjoy the traditional Turkish Iftar and explore historic mosques and other attractions. The capital city of Turkey is the center of all administrative work. This city is widely famous for its Angora wool, pears, doner kabab, honey and grapes. You can visit Ankara Castle, Kocatepe Mosque, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, and Old Ankara Houses. Although it is the capital of Turkey, this city is comparatively more peaceful than other cities.

Best Time to Visit: March to October

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4. Izmir

After Istanbul and Ankara, Izmir is the 3rd largest city in Turkey. This Turkish city is the perfect blend of historic and modern architecture. Konark Square, Historical Elevator building and Kemeralti Bazaar are the major attractions of Izmir. Although this city is much impacted by European tradition and culture, it still beholds ancient Turkish history. During the Ramadan holidays in Turkey, you can walk to the seafront promenade, enjoy Ramadan shopping at Kemeralti market and relish the traditional Iftar feast. While in Izmir, do not forget to visit the historical elevator building and Ephesus.

Best Time to Visit: March to September

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5. Kayseri

This city is located in the west of the Cappadocia Mountain range. Kayseri is the industrial powerhouse that beholds major Islamic traditions and culture. You can spend an enormous amount of time with your loved ones here. If you want to witness the actual Islamic values and traditions of Turkey, it is a must-visit place. For the admirers of history, Kayseri can be the best holiday destination. The most renowned Erciyes Ski Resort is also situated in Kayseri. Skiing is one of the best things to do in Turkey while visiting this city. Since this city is in the Cappadocia region, you must explore the hot balloon ride and fairy chimney.

Best Time to Visit: April to September

6. Adana

This riverside city is one of the prominent cities in Turkey. It is situated on the bank of the Seyhan River. Earlier, it was not considered a tourist attraction, but gradually it has been discovered by travelers as a city of spas. Adana offers luxurious spas and saunas to experience luxury in a traditional way. You can visit Adana Central Park, Adana Stone Bridge, Central Mosque and Archeology Museum in Adana.

Best Time to Visit: March to September

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7. Antalya

Surrounded by Taurus mountains, Antalya is known as the city of Turkish resorts. Breathtaking landscapes and beautiful, serene resorts are the center of attraction. Tourists visit this city throughout the year, but during Ramadan in Turkey, it becomes busiest. You can visit several architectural attractions in Antalya during Ramadan. A historic mosque, Turkish Hammam, shopping centers, and authentic Turkish restaurants are must-visit. Cumhuriyet Square is the primary tourist attraction in Antalya. You can purchase Turkish spices, carpets, wool, and a lot of traditional items from here.

Best Time to Visit: April to September

8. Konya

This city of Turkey has multiple significances. It is considered as the world’s first residential cities in the world. Konya witnessed the world’s first urbanization, human settlement and animal domestication. This city is under the impression of being a religiously conservative city in Turkey. This place is well renowned because of the famous poet “Rumi”; his graveyard is a place visited by tourists. This city beholds the conservation of Islamic traditions and values. Though there are so many restrictions for being on the streets of Konya, at the same time, it’s a major attraction also. You can visit the Mevlana cultural center and witness the whirling dervish ceremony in Konya. This ceremony is also known as the Sema ceremony; people wearing long coats and conical hats chant prayers and perform divine meditation. For a stress free travel experience it is better to follow Turkey travel guide.

Best Time to Visit: March to September

9. Gaziantep

This city is recognized as a culinary hub spot in Turkey. You can taste the world’s best Baklava, kabab pekmez and pistachios in Gaziantep. Amid Ramadan in Turkey, you can enjoy a range of flavorful cuisine in this city. Ramadan, Iftar and Gaziantep are impeccable combinations to explore once in a lifetime. It produces the world’s best quality pistachios; undoubtedly, there are so many reasons to visit this Turkish city. It is the best city to enjoy the Grand Iftar with family and friends.

Best Time to Visit: March to October

10. Mersin

Mersin is known as Turkey's most significant economic centre. This city has the most extended seashore, making it the largest port in Turkey. Mersin is surrounded by mountains and beaches, making it a peak tourist destination. It is also recognized for its world-class urban amenities, opera houses, and modern architecture. This city was established during the Roman period and developed during the Turkish sultanate. You should visit this city to experience the blend of Islam and Christian religions. Other than this, you can also experience authentic local seafood, yacht rides, and water activities. It's a must-visit place to spend peaceful Ramadan holidays in Turkey.

Best Time to Visit: March to October

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11. Trabzon

It's a city where you can witness exquisite natural landscapes and lean on black sea cuisine. Apart from this, Trabzon is globally famous for its "Sumela Monastery". Vintage churches, mosques, lush green valleys and local food are some of the major tourist attractions. If you are visiting this city during Ramadan, you must visit Boztepe Tea Garden, Sera Lake, Trabzon Castle, Uzungol, street markets and traditional attire shops. At last, we can say that this place is a paradise for the admirers of nature and Islamic tradition.

Best Time to Visit: March to October

12. Samsun

Samsun, the city name, refers to “port”, known as a historic symbol of Turkey. This city was discovered by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, who was the father of the Turkish War of Independence. Besides its historical amendments, this city is a symbol of resilience. Local Turkish people admire the history of Samsun, which played an essential role during the rise of modern Turkey. Visit this city of Turkey to learn about the roots of the Turkish Sultanate and its historical values. Besides this, you can visit the largest shopping malls and pizzerias during Ramadan festival in Turkey.

Best Time to Visit: April to October

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13. Diyarbakir

This city is famous for its UNESCO-listed world heritage monuments. Diyarbakir is also Turkey's industrial capital. It has several woolen and textile industries; this city is also famous for its silver and gold filigree work. Amid the Ramadan holidays, Diyarbakir Castle, Hevsel Garden and Diyarbakir Wall can be visited. While celebrating Ramadan in Turkey, do not miss a Suhoor and Iftar at Hasan Pasha Inn. This place is a prominent breakfast spot in Diyarbakir that serves Suhoor and Iftar meals during Ramadan.

Best Time to Visit: March to September

14. Adiyaman

In the Southeastern Antolia region of Turkey, Adiyaman is well recognized for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and UNESCO world heritage sites. It's a popular tourist destination that is overwhelmed during Ramadan month. Old Kahta Castle, Cendere Bridge, Adiyaman Museum, Colossal Statues, and Mount Nemrut range are some of the must-visit places in Adiyaman. It's one of Turkey's most remarkable ancient cities, also known as a living museum.

Best Time to Visit: March to September

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15. Eskisehir

Eskisehir is the educational hub of Turkey; primary Turkish universities, institutes and educational centers are based here. It also refers to the cultural capital of Turkey. During Ramadan, Muslim devotees can visit this city to learn more about Islamic culture and traditions. Since this place is basically an educational center, visit here to uplift your knowledge about Islam.

Best Time to Visit: Any time of the Year

Ramadan in Turkey can be celebrated in many ways, and it is the best time to visit top cities in Turkey. During this holy month, visiting Turkey can add tremendous memories to your diary. You can experience vigorous Turkish culture, authentic cuisine, and a spiritual environment throughout this holy month. It is the best time to discover the other sides of Turkey. If you are planning a trip anytime soon, you must be on the lookout for our Turkey tour packages. It will help you to streamline your trip appropriately. Hurry up, plan your Ramadan holidays in Turkey with Myholidays.