Turkey offers a blend of Europe and Asia, where ancient ruins, grand mosques, and dramatic coastlines meet vibrant modern cities. You can explore deep history while enjoying warm hospitality and lively urban life.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
From the cultural heart of Istanbul to archaeological treasures and turquoise coasts, Turkey spans bustling bazaars, historic old towns, and peaceful seaside resorts. Expect diverse landscapes, layered history, and a strong café and street culture.
Plan your trip
Use Istanbul as your gateway to explore wider Turkey, with domestic flights and long-distance coaches linking key regions. Plan extra days to balance big-city sightseeing with coastal escapes or countryside explorations.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul’s historic peninsula
Wander between grand landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, then stroll through atmospheric streets overlooking the Bosphorus.
Cruise the Bosphorus
Take a scenic cruise to see Istanbul’s palaces, wooden mansions, and hilltop neighbourhoods from the water, as Europe and Asia glide past on either side.
Discover bustling bazaars
Lose yourself in the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, browsing textiles, ceramics, jewellery, and fragrant spices in centuries-old covered markets.
Unwind in a traditional hamam
Visit a historic bathhouse for steam, marble interiors, and a soothing scrub, a classic way to relax after a day of sightseeing.
Taste Turkish tea and coffee culture
Pause at local cafés to sip strong Turkish tea or thick coffee served in small cups, often accompanied by sweet treats and lively conversation.
Experience Turkey’s way of life
Getting around
Istanbul has extensive public transport, including trams, metro, and ferries that link European and Asian districts. Beyond the city, domestic flights, intercity buses, and car hire connect major regions efficiently.
Local life & culture
Daily life spills onto streets and squares, from tea gardens and waterfront promenades to neighbourhood parks. Expect a strong café culture, sociable evenings, and a mix of long-standing traditions and contemporary arts.
Where to unwind
Relax in leafy parks, waterfront promenades along the Bosphorus, and urban viewpoints where you can watch the city lights come on. Many visitors also seek out spas and hamams for a restorative break.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Turkey is known for grilled meats, savoury pastries, rich stews, and meze spreads, with Istanbul offering specialties from across the country alongside local favourites and seafood.
Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find lively eateries, waterfront restaurants, and modern bistros across Istanbul’s central districts, serving everything from simple kebabs to contemporary takes on regional cuisine.
Signature & scenic dining
Seek out rooftop terraces and Bosphorus-side venues for atmospheric meals with city or water views, turning dinner into a memorable part of your trip.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Istanbul features large shopping malls and lifestyle centres that combine international labels, local designers, dining, and entertainment under one roof.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets in Istanbul brim with carpets, textiles, ceramics, and metalwork, giving you a chance to shop for handmade items and distinctive souvenirs.
Evening retail scene
In the evening, busy shopping streets and select markets stay lively, with illuminated storefronts, open-air cafés, and a relaxed, social atmosphere.
Best time to visit Turkey
Spring shoulder season (April to June) brings mild days around 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F), ideal for sightseeing with fewer crowds than peak season. Summer peak season (July to early September) is warmer, often 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) or higher in some regions, popular for city exploring and coastal trips. Autumn shoulder season (late September to November) cools to about 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F), offering comfortable temperatures and a calmer feel compared with peak season.