Turkey's best castles and fortresses to visit are Bodrum Castle, Alanya Castle, Rumeli Fortress in Istanbul, Van Castle, Mardin Castle, and clifftop Uçhisar Castle in Cappadocia — each layering Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman history with sweeping views. Below is our pick of the top 10, from coastal sea forts to rock-cut citadels, with what makes each one worth the climb.
Bodrum Castle – Located in the coastal city of Bodrum, Bodrum Castle was built by the Knights of St. John in the 15th century. Today, it serves as a museum and houses artifacts from the Ottoman Empire and the Crusader period.
Anavarza Castle – Located in the Adana province, Anavarza Castle dates back to the Roman period and was later used by the Byzantines and the Armenians. The castle is perched on a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Alanya Castle – Located on the Mediterranean coast, Alanya Castle was built in the 13th century by the Seljuks. The castle offers breathtaking views of the sea and the city of Alanya.
Rumeli Fortress – Located on the European side of Istanbul, Rumeli Fortress was built by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II in preparation for the siege of Constantinople. The fortress is now a popular tourist attraction and hosts concerts and cultural events.
Kars Castle – Located in the city of Kars, Kars Castle dates back to the 12th century and was once an important fortress in the region. The castle is now a museum and houses exhibits on the history of Kars.
Kaleiçi Castle – Located in the old city of Antalya, Kaleiçi (the historic Antalya old town) dates back to the Roman period and was later shaped by the Byzantines and the Ottomans. Its harbour walls are now a popular attraction and offer stunning views of the Mediterranean.
Mardin Castle – Located in the city of Mardin, Mardin Castle dates back to the Roman period and was later used by the Byzantines, the Armenians, and the Turks. The castle offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding Mesopotamian plain.
Van Castle – Located in the city of Van, Van Castle dates back to the Urartu Kingdom and was an important fortress for centuries. The site is now an open-air museum with sweeping views over Lake Van.
Uçhisar Castle – Located in the heart of Cappadocia, Uçhisar Castle is a giant rock formation honeycombed with tunnels and rooms, used as a fortress and refuge during the Byzantine period. As the highest point in the region, its summit gives the finest panorama over the fairy-chimney valleys — best at sunrise, when the hot-air balloons rise. Entry is €9, and it pairs perfectly with the nearby Göreme Open-Air Museum.
Kızkalesi Castle – Located on a small island off the coast of Mersin, Kızkalesi (the "Maiden's Castle") was built by the Byzantines and stands just offshore. The seafront fortress is a popular attraction and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean.
These are just a few of the many castles and fortresses to explore in Turkey. Whether you're drawn to Roman ruins, Crusader sea forts or rock-cut Byzantine citadels, there's something for everyone — and if Cappadocia is on your route, Uçhisar Castle is the easiest of these to combine with a full day of sightseeing.
Frequently asked questions
Which castle should I visit in Cappadocia?
Uçhisar Castle is the must-see — it is the highest point in Cappadocia and offers the region's best panoramic view, especially at sunrise. Entry is €9, and the smaller Ortahisar Castle nearby is a quieter alternative.
How do I get around to see these castles?
Turkey's castles are spread across the country, so most travellers combine domestic flights with car hire or transfers for local legs. In Cappadocia, the easiest way to reach Uçhisar from the airport or your hotel is a private transfer — check the live Cappadocia transfer price calculator for current fares.
Are Turkey's castles worth visiting?
Yes — they are among the country's best-value sights, layering Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman history with dramatic coastal or valley views. Uçhisar Castle in particular rewards visitors with an unbeatable Cappadocia panorama for a modest entry fee.
