Why visit Turkey?
Turkey sits where Europe meets Asia, offering coastal resorts, layered history, and vibrant modern cities. You can explore ancient ruins, bustling bazaars, and seaside promenades in one trip.
What to expect
From Istanbul on the Bosphorus to the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia and the beaches of the Aegean, each region has its own character. You will find Ottoman palaces, Roman theatres, and lively neighbourhoods side by side.
Plan your trip
Use Istanbul as your main gateway, then connect onwards by air or road to coastal towns or inland wonders. Turkey also works well as a base to continue journeys towards Europe, the Middle East, or Central Asia.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul's historic peninsula
Stroll between grand mosques, historic squares, and centuries-old bazaars in the heart of Istanbul's old city.
Cruise along the Bosphorus
Take a leisurely boat trip between continents and admire palaces, fortresses, and waterfront mansions lining the strait.
Wander the bazaars and artisan streets
Browse colourful stalls for textiles, ceramics, and spices in traditional markets and small workshops.
Relax in a traditional hammam
Unwind with a steam, scrub, and soak in an historic bathhouse, a classic Turkish wellness ritual.
Visit ancient coastal sites
Combine beach time with ruins by day-tripping from major cities to nearby archaeological sites.
Sample Turkish tea and coffee culture
Pause at street-side cafes, sip strong coffee or tea, and watch daily life unfold around you.
Discover neighbourhoods on foot
Walk through contrasting districts, from chic shopping streets to quiet lanes lined with wooden houses.
Experience Turkey's way of life
Getting around
Istanbul serves as the main international gateway, with domestic flights linking quickly to other Turkish cities and resort areas. Within cities, you can rely on metros, trams, buses, and taxis, while intercity coaches and car hire open up more remote regions.
Local life & culture
Daily life often centres on neighbourhood squares, waterfront promenades, and local cafes. You will notice strong traditions in music, crafts, and hospitality, with each region expressing them in its own way.
Where to unwind
You can unwind in city parks, leafy hilltop lookouts, or by the water along the Bosphorus and coastal promenades. Across the country, thermal spa towns, beaches, and inland valleys offer slower-paced escapes.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Turkey is known for grilled meats, savoury pastries, and rich meze spreads that vary by region. Coastal areas lean towards seafood, while inland cities are known for hearty grills and slow-cooked specialities.
Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find relaxed eateries, bakeries, and street food stands on almost every corner in major cities. Modern bistros and contemporary restaurants sit alongside long-established family places, giving you plenty of choice.
Signature & scenic dining
Rooftop terraces, waterfront restaurants, and venues with sweeping city views offer memorable settings for a meal. In Istanbul especially, many places combine local flavours with striking vistas over skylines and waterways.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large shopping centres in Istanbul bring together global brands, local labels, cinemas, and dining in one place. These modern complexes are easy to reach by public transport and offer year-round comfort in any weather.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and covered bazaars are ideal for picking up textiles, copperware, and handmade ceramics. In Istanbul and other regional centres, you will also find small boutiques that showcase contemporary Turkish design.
Evening retail scene
In the evenings, major shopping streets stay lively with illuminated storefronts and late-opening cafes. Around central districts, you can combine a bit of browsing with a relaxed walk and a drink.
Best time to visit Turkey
Peak season: June to August, especially in coastal and major city areas, sees warm to hot weather around 25–32°C (77–90°F) and long daylight hours, ideal for seaside stays and outdoor sightseeing.
Shoulder season: April to May and September to October offer milder conditions around 15–24°C (59–75°F), with comfortable temperatures for city walks and inland excursions and generally fewer crowds.
Low season: November to March is cooler at roughly 5–13°C (41–55°F) in many regions, with some inland areas dropping lower, bringing quieter attractions and a slower pace.