Turkey bridges Europe and Asia, where ancient empires, lively bazaars, and sweeping coastlines come together. You will find grand monuments, warm hospitality, and landscapes that shift from seaside resorts to rugged highlands.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
From the historic heart of Istanbul to the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia and the turquoise shores of the Aegean, Turkey offers diverse cities and regions. Expect bustling streets, layered history, and a blend of contemporary life with deep-rooted traditions.
Plan your trip
Turkey works well for both short city breaks and longer journeys that combine several regions. Use major hubs like Istanbul as your gateway, then connect onwards by domestic flights or road to coastal towns, archaeological sites, and mountain retreats across the country.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul's historic peninsula
Wander between the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, then pause in old courtyards and tea gardens overlooking the Bosphorus.
Sail the Turquoise Coast
Join a traditional gulet cruise or day trip from ports like Fethiye or Bodrum to swim in secluded bays and discover coastal ruins.
Discover Cappadocia's otherworldly landscape
Walk through valleys of rock pinnacles, descend into ancient underground cities, and, in the early morning, watch hot-air balloons drift overhead.
Step back in time at Ephesus
Stroll marble streets, theatres, and grand facades in one of the Mediterranean's most impressive ancient cities, near the town of Selçuk.
Soak in Pamukkale's travertine terraces
Follow the white mineral pools up the hillside, then continue to the ruins of Hierapolis for sweeping views over the plains.
Unwind in a traditional hammam
Visit a historic bathhouse in cities like Istanbul or Bursa for a steam, scrub, and relaxing break from sightseeing.
Cruise the Bosphorus strait
Take a short or half-day cruise to see Istanbul's palaces, fortresses, and waterfront neighbourhoods from the water.
Experience Turkey's way of life
Getting around
Turkey has an extensive domestic flight network linking Istanbul with major cities and resort areas. Intercity buses and modern highways connect towns and regions, while urban transport in big cities combines metro, trams, ferries, and taxis for easy movement.
Local life & culture
Daily life in Turkey often centres on neighbourhood cafés, tea houses, and lively streets where people gather to talk and trade. Each region has its own character, from the cosmopolitan pace of Istanbul to the slower rhythm of Anatolian towns and coastal villages.
Where to unwind
Along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts you will find quiet bays, beaches, and seaside promenades ideal for slow days in the sun. Inland, mountain plateaus, national parks, and lakes offer walks, fresh air, and peaceful views away from the cities.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Turkey is known for grilled meats, savoury pastries, meze spreads, and rich desserts such as baklava, with each region adding its own twist. Cities like Istanbul, Gaziantep, and Izmir are especially renowned for their culinary traditions.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Istanbul, Ankara, and coastal resorts you will find everything from simple lokantas and kebab shops to modern bistros and cafés. Street-side eateries, waterfront restaurants, and contemporary food halls offer a wide range of flavours at almost any time of day.
Signature & scenic dining
Enjoy rooftop terraces overlooking the Bosphorus, converted mansions on the waterfront, or stone houses in Cappadocia lit softly at night. Many destinations pair views of city skylines, valleys, or harbours with refined takes on classic Turkish dishes.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir feature large shopping centres that combine international brands, local labels, cinemas, and family attractions. Many malls also offer spacious food courts and seasonal events under one roof.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional bazaars and neighbourhood markets are ideal for finding textiles, ceramics, copperware, and regional specialties. Historic districts in Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya showcase artisans selling handmade items alongside everyday goods.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets and waterfront promenades in Istanbul and other big cities stay lively with illuminated stores, cafés, and carts. Some markets and malls extend their hours, making it easy to combine browsing, people-watching, and a late-night drink.
Best time to visit Turkey
Turkey has varied climates, but three broad seasons help guide trip planning. From June to August, the peak season, coastal areas are hot and sunny, averaging around 28–32°C (82–90°F), and cities such as Istanbul can feel warm and busy. April to May and September to October form the shoulder season, with comfortable temperatures between 18–25°C (64–77°F), milder crowds, and generally pleasant conditions for both city visits and sightseeing inland. November to March is typically the low season, when coastal regions cool to about 8–15°C (46–59°F) and some inland and eastern areas can drop below freezing, though this period can be rewarding if you enjoy quieter attractions and possible snowfall in higher regions.