Turkey bridges Europe and Asia, where ancient cities, coastal retreats, and mountain landscapes sit side by side. You can explore grand monuments, vibrant bazaars, and relaxed seaside towns in a single journey.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
Expect dynamic cities such as Istanbul, layered with history and contemporary life, along with coastline resorts, historic inland towns, and dramatic Anatolian scenery. Distances are large, yet well connected by air, road, and rail.
Plan your trip
Use Turkey as both a destination and a gateway to wider Europe and the Middle East. Start in Istanbul, then continue by domestic flights or overland routes to coastal regions, Cappadocia, and other cultural centres at your own pace.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul’s historic peninsula
Wander between grand landmarks, lively streets, and waterfront promenades in Istanbul’s old quarter, where centuries of history sit within a compact, walkable area.
Sail along the Turquoise Coast
Join a coastal cruise or day trip to swim in clear bays, visit small harbours, and take in the rugged scenery of Turkey’s Mediterranean shoreline.
Discover Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes
Stroll through valleys of unusual rock formations and cave dwellings, and visit hilltop viewpoints for sweeping views over central Turkey’s volcanic terrain.
Step into ancient ruins at Ephesus
Walk through the remains of grand avenues, theatres, and libraries that showcase the scale of classical-era life on Turkey’s Aegean coast.
Relax in Pamukkale’s terraces
Visit the white travertine pools and nearby ancient ruins, combining gentle walks with warm mineral-rich waters and hillside views.
Stroll the Bosphorus waterfront
Take a ferry or walk along the shoreline neighbourhoods of Istanbul, where palaces, parks, and residential districts face the busy waterway.
Unwind in a traditional hammam
Experience a Turkish bath in historic or modern bathhouses, combining warm rooms, cleansing treatments, and quiet relaxation areas.
Experience Turkey’s way of life
Getting around
Domestic flights connect Istanbul with major cities and resort regions across Turkey, making longer journeys quick and convenient. Intercity buses, trains, and car hire are widely available for exploring coastal routes and inland regions at a slower pace.
Local life & culture
In Turkey’s cities, you will find lively neighbourhoods, café culture, and busy squares, while smaller towns often centre around local markets and village streets. Historic influences from different empires appear in architecture, language, and everyday customs.
Where to unwind
Head to Turkey’s Mediterranean and Aegean coasts for beaches, coves, and relaxed harbours, or seek cooler air in forested hills and mountain plateaus. Urban parks and waterfront promenades in cities like Istanbul also offer easy escapes close to the heart of the action.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Turkey is known for grilled meats, savoury pastries, rich stews, and vegetable-based dishes, with regional variations from hearty Anatolian flavours to lighter coastal styles. Istanbul gathers influences from across the country on a single table.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Across Turkey’s cities, you can find relaxed eateries, street-side cafés, and contemporary restaurants serving both traditional and modern dishes. Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara offer especially wide choices, from quick bites to creative tasting menus.
Signature & scenic dining
Enjoy meals at rooftop venues overlooking the Bosphorus, waterfront restaurants on the Aegean or Mediterranean, or atmospheric spots in restored historic buildings. Many places pair local seasonal ingredients with memorable city or sea views.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
In Istanbul, large shopping centres combine international brands, local designers, and entertainment under one roof, while other major cities feature modern malls with fashion, technology, and dining options in one convenient stop.
Markets & local crafts
Bazaars across Istanbul, Izmir, and central Anatolia are known for textiles, ceramics, copperware, and decorative items. Smaller towns and coastal regions often specialise in hand-crafted goods that reflect their local materials and traditions.
Evening retail scene
In big cities such as Istanbul, shopping streets and malls stay open into the evening, with illuminated storefronts and active side streets. Waterfront promenades and central districts also offer relaxed browsing after dark.
Best time to visit Turkey
Spring (April to June) is a shoulder season, with mild temperatures around 15–25°C (59–77°F) in many regions, blooming landscapes, and generally comfortable sightseeing weather. Summer (July to September) is the peak season, especially along the coasts, with hot days often 25–35°C (77–95°F) or higher, warm seas, and longer opening hours in resort areas. Autumn and winter (October to March) are a low season in many coastal destinations, with cooler temperatures from 5–15°C (41–59°F) in much of the country, colder conditions and occasional snow inland, and a quieter pace at popular attractions.