Why visit Turkey?
Turkey bridges continents, where historic empires, seaside towns, and mountain landscapes meet in one diverse country. You can wander ancient streets, relax on the coast, and experience warm hospitality in every region.
What to expect
From the energy of Istanbul to the cave valleys of Cappadocia and the turquoise bays of the Aegean, each region has its own character. You will find dramatic ruins, lively bazaars, and a mix of modern neighbourhoods and traditional villages.
Plan your trip
You can combine culture, nature, and city breaks in one itinerary, choosing from coastal resorts, inland heritage sites, and vibrant urban centres. Turkey also works well as a gateway for wider journeys across Europe, the Middle East, and the eastern Mediterranean.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul’s historic peninsula
Walk between grand mosques, palaces, and museums, then pause in leafy squares overlooking the Bosphorus.
Cruise the Bosphorus Strait
Take a scenic boat trip between Europe and Asia, passing waterfront mansions, fortresses, and fishing villages.
Discover Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscapes
Wander among rock-hewn churches and valleys dotted with stone chimneys, with sunrise balloon views for an unforgettable panorama.
Relax on the Turquoise Coast
Unwind in Aegean or Mediterranean towns, where beaches, sailing trips, and clear bays set a slow holiday rhythm.
Step back in time at Ephesus and ancient cities
Visit remarkably preserved theatres, streets, and temples that bring classical history into vivid focus.
Bathe in Pamukkale’s travertine terraces
See white mineral pools cascading down the hillside and explore nearby archaeological remains on the plateau.
Stroll through Turkish bazaars
Browse colourful stalls with textiles, ceramics, and spices, and enjoy the atmosphere of traditional trading streets.
Uncover Istanbul’s contemporary side
Spend time in modern neighbourhoods with galleries, cafés, and lively waterfront promenades.
Experience Turkey’s way of life
Getting around
Domestic flights link Istanbul with coastal resorts, Cappadocia, and major cities quickly and efficiently. Intercity buses and modern highways connect towns and regions, while urban areas offer taxis, metro lines, and ride-hailing services.
Local life & culture
Daily life blends old and new, from neighbourhood tea houses and traditional music to contemporary galleries and street art. In cities and small towns alike, long conversations, hospitality, and time spent in public squares are an important part of the social rhythm.
Where to unwind
You can slow down in seaside resorts, lakeside retreats, or thermal spa towns across the country. National parks, coastal walking paths, and mountain plateaus offer fresh air, wide views, and gentle outdoor adventures.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Turkey is known for grilled meats, savoury pastries, and vegetable dishes that draw on both coastal and inland traditions. Istanbul, Gaziantep, and the Aegean region are especially celebrated for their rich culinary heritage.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In cities you will find simple eateries, cafés, and contemporary restaurants side by side, serving regional favourites and modern takes. Coastal towns feature fresh produce and seafood, while inland centres highlight hearty specialities from nearby farms and fields.
Signature & scenic dining
You can dine with views of the Bosphorus, historic skylines, or quiet harbours along the coast. In many destinations, rooftop terraces, waterfront venues, and countryside settings turn a meal into a memorable part of your trip.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Major cities such as Istanbul and Ankara feature large shopping centres that combine international brands, local designers, and leisure spaces. Many include cinemas, family attractions, and varied dining options for a full day out.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and artisan quarters showcase textiles, ceramics, metalwork, and regional products. Istanbul, Izmir, and Cappadocia’s towns are popular places to look for handmade items and locally produced souvenirs.
Evening retail scene
After dark, central districts in big cities stay lively with illuminated shopfronts and late-opening boutiques. In some coastal towns, waterfront promenades and pedestrian streets host evening stalls and relaxed browsing.
Best time to visit Turkey
Peak season: June to August brings warm to hot weather across much of Turkey, with coastal areas averaging 25–30°C (77–86°F). Beach destinations are at their busiest and popular historic sites see higher visitor numbers.
Shoulder season: April to May and September to October offer milder temperatures around 15–25°C (59–77°F). This is a comfortable time for sightseeing in cities and inland regions, with generally pleasant conditions and fewer crowds than midsummer.
Low season: November to March is cooler, with coastal temperatures around 8–15°C (46–59°F) and some inland areas dropping lower. Many resorts are quieter, and you may encounter rain or occasional snow in higher or northern regions.