Turkey sits where Europe meets Asia, blending ancient history, layered cultures, and dramatic landscapes, from glittering coasts to inland plains.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
Experience lively cities like Istanbul with its historic peninsula and Bosphorus views, coastal resorts along the Aegean and Mediterranean, and archaeological sites scattered across the interior.
Plan your trip
Use Turkey as both a destination and a gateway, combining time in Istanbul with onward journeys to other regions, neighbouring countries, or wider Europe and the Middle East.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul's historic peninsula
Stroll between monumental sights in Istanbul, from ancient walls and domes to bustling squares and centuries-old streets overlooking the Bosphorus.
Cruise the Bosphorus
Take a Bosphorus cruise to see Istanbul's skyline, palaces, and waterfront neighbourhoods from the water, especially atmospheric at sunset.
Step into grand bazaars
Lose yourself in covered bazaars filled with textiles, handicrafts, and spice stalls, where narrow lanes and vaulted ceilings create a timeless atmosphere.
Discover ancient ruins
Visit archaeological sites across Turkey, where theatres, temples, and city remains reveal layers of Greek, Roman, and Byzantine history.
Relax in traditional bathhouses
Unwind in historic bathhouses with warm marble interiors and steam-filled chambers, a classic Turkish way to pause and recharge.
Wander along scenic waterfronts
Walk promenades and neighbourhood streets that hug the water, watching ferries, fishing boats, and city lights reflect off the sea.
Admire iconic architecture
Take in landmark silhouettes of domes, minarets, and stone facades that define Turkey's skylines, especially striking at dawn and dusk.
Experience Turkey's way of life
Getting around
Istanbul is well connected by domestic flights, intercity buses, and ferries, with extensive public transport within the city, including metro, trams, and commuter boats that link key districts.
Local life & culture
Daily life often centres on neighbourhood squares, tea houses, and waterfront promenades, where conversations stretch long into the evening and layered influences from Europe and Asia sit side by side.
Where to unwind
Find calm in city parks, leafy hilltop viewpoints, and waterside spots along the Bosphorus, or retreat to quieter historic districts with cobbled streets and traditional houses.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Across Turkey, you can enjoy grilled meats, rich stews, filled pastries, and sweet desserts, with Istanbul offering a cross-section of flavours from many different regions.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Istanbul, casual eateries, modern bistros, and street-side spots serve everything from quick snacks to shared plates, often mixing traditional recipes with contemporary touches.
Signature & scenic dining
Seek out restaurants and terraces with skyline or waterfront views in Istanbul, where illuminated monuments and the Bosphorus provide memorable backdrops for a relaxed meal.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Istanbul features large shopping centres and lifestyle complexes that bring together international brands, local labels, cinemas, and dining options under one roof.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets in Istanbul showcase textiles, ceramics, metalwork, and decorative items, where you can browse handmade pieces and regional specialties.
Evening retail scene
After dark, major shopping streets and some bazaars in Istanbul stay lively, with illuminated storefronts, late-opening boutiques, and plenty of cafes for a break between purchases.
Best time to visit Turkey
Spring shoulder season (April to June) brings mild weather in much of Turkey, with average temperatures around 15–25°C (59–77°F) and blooming landscapes, ideal for sightseeing and city walks. Summer peak season (July to September) is warm to hot, especially in Istanbul and along the coasts, where temperatures often reach 25–32°C (77–90°F) and days are long and sunny. Autumn shoulder season (October to early November) cools to about 12–22°C (54–72°F), with comfortable conditions for city exploring and fewer crowds than midsummer.