5 Movies To Inspire Your Next Visit to Turkey

Turkey, with its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, has always been a source of inspiration for filmmakers. From historical epics set in ancient cities to romantic comedies filmed on the country’s idyllic coastline, Turkish cinema has beautifully captured the essence of this remarkable country.

In this article, read about the ten films shot in Turkey that will introduce you to Turkish cinema’s fascinating history and culture to inspire your next trip. As you plan your next trip to Turkey, why not explore the places where some of these iconic films were filmed? Sit back, grab your popcorn, and explore the beauty of Turkey through the lens of these cinematic masterpieces.

1. Topkapi (1964)

One of the best films ever shot in Istanbul, “Topkapi” is an adventurous heist based on the novel “Daylight” by British writer Eric Ambler. The film tells the story of a group of thieves who plan to accomplish the impossible mission of stealing a dagger studded with priceless jewels from the Topkapi Palace Museum in Istanbul.

One of the reasons this film has become so famous is the unique shots taken of Istanbul’s gems, such as the Bosphorus, the Hagia Sophia, and the eponymous Topkapi Palace.

2. Once Upon a Time in Anatolia (2011)

One of the greatest Turkish films of all time and the winner of the Grand Prix at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival, “Once Upon a Time in Anatolia” is a must-watch before travelling to Turkey.

The breathtaking cinematography in this film shows the rugged beauty of Turkey’s interior landscapes. The movie tells the story of a group of investigators searching for a body buried in the vast, barren landscape of the Anatolian countryside. During the search, tensions rise, forcing the men to confront their fears, desires, and regrets.

3. Winter Sleep (2014)

Directed by Nuri Bilge Ceylan, this drama film is set in the stunning Cappadocia region of Turkey and tells the story of a retired actor named Aydin who lives in a small village in central Anatolia, running a hotel with his much younger wife and sister, grappling with the complexities of his relationships and the nature of his own identity.

“Winter Sleep” explores many themes related to Turkish culture and tradition, including the tension between tradition and modernity set against the starkly beautiful backdrop of Cappadocia’s unique landscape.

 4. The Wild Pear Tree (2018)

‘The Wild Pear Three’ tells the story of a young Turk named Sinan, who returns to his rural hometown in Turkey after finishing college to try to publish his first book. As he navigates the challenges of his personal and professional life, he grapples with the weight of his family’s history and the complex dynamics of Turkish society.

This movie features stunning cinematography of the Turkish countryside with its rolling hills, wheat fields, and orchards of wild pear trees, as well as jaw-dropping shots of the historic architecture of Canakkale: the nearest urban center to ancient Troy.

5. Bal (2010)

Also known as “Honey,” the film “Bal” is a Turkish drama directed by Semih Kaplanoğlu. It tells the story of a boy named Yusuf who lives with his parents in a remote village in Turkey, where his father collects honey from the forest. Suddenly Yusuf’s father disappears, and the boy embarks on a quest to find him, searching for clues in the surrounding forest and among the people of his village.

This movie explores themes related to Turkish culture and tradition, including the importance of family and community and the deep connection between people and the natural world. Its poignant story and captivating images offer a powerful meditation on the lifestyle of rural Turkey and a look at its traditional architecture.