Rick Steves' Europe Season 1 Episode 27 Central Turkey

In season 1 episode 27 of Rick Steves' Europe, titled "Central Turkey," viewers are taken on a tour of the ancient land of Anatolia, where East meets West. The episode begins in the bustling capital city of Ankara, where Rick explores the city's vibrant bazaar and stunning landmarks, including Ataturk's Mausoleum and the iconic Anatolian Civilization Museum.

From there, Rick travels to the Cappadocia region, known for its unique geological formations and ancient underground cities. He visits the Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where he discovers the region's rich Byzantine history and intricate cave churches. Rick also takes a hot-air balloon ride over the area to get a bird's-eye view of the stunning landscape.

The next stop on the journey is the city of Konya, known as the spiritual center of Turkey. Rick explores the city's stunning architecture, including the Mevlana Museum, dedicated to the poet and philosopher Rumi.

Continuing on the journey, Rick heads to Antalya on the Mediterranean coast, where he discovers the stunning ancient ruins of Perge and Aspendos. He also explores the city's beautiful old town and the impressive Antalya Museum, which showcases the region's rich history and culture.

The episode concludes with Rick's visit to the bustling city of Istanbul, a true cultural melting pot where the East truly meets the West. Rick explores the city's iconic landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Topkapi Palace. He also takes a boat tour along the Bosphorus Strait, enjoying the stunning views of both the European and Asian sides of the city.

Throughout the episode, Rick provides a wealth of information on the history, culture, and people of Turkey, offering viewers an in-depth look at the fascinating country. From stunning geological formations to ancient ruins and vibrant cities, "Central Turkey" offers a true exploration of one of the world's most historic and beautiful destinations.