Turkey bridges Europe and Asia, where ancient cities, coastal resorts, and high plateaus sit side by side. You can explore historic sites, lively bazaars, and seaside promenades in one trip.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
Expect bustling Istanbul, sun-drenched Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, cave towns in Cappadocia, and archaeological sites along the Aegean. Modern cities stand next to centuries of layered history.
Plan your trip
Use Turkey as both a holiday destination and a gateway between Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. Combine city stays with coastal escapes or inland adventures for a varied itinerary.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore the historic heart of Istanbul
Wander between iconic sights such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque, and pause in leafy courtyards and old city squares.
Cruise the Bosphorus
Take a boat ride along the Bosphorus Strait to see Ottoman palaces, wooden waterfront mansions, and the city skyline spread across two continents.
Unwind on the Turquoise Coast
Head to resort towns such as Antalya, Bodrum, or Fethiye to relax on beaches, sail between coves, and discover ancient ruins by the sea.
Discover Cappadocia's landscapes
Roam valleys filled with rock chimneys and cave dwellings, and visit underground towns that show how people once lived hidden beneath the surface.
Step into ancient Ephesus
Walk along marble streets lined with grand facades, libraries, and theatres that reveal the scale of one of the Mediterranean's great ancient cities.
Soak in Pamukkale's terraces
See the white travertine pools cascading down the hillside and visit nearby Hierapolis, where thermal waters have drawn visitors for centuries.
Shop the bazaars of Istanbul
Browse carpets, ceramics, textiles, and spices in the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, and experience the energy of traditional trade streets.
Experience Turkey's way of life
Getting around
Turkey has an extensive domestic flight network linking Istanbul with major cities and resort towns, along with intercity coaches and rail services between key hubs. Within cities, you can use trams, metro lines, buses, and taxis to move between neighbourhoods.
Local life & culture
City life often centres on neighbourhood squares, waterfront promenades, and traditional tea gardens where people gather throughout the day. You will notice a mix of historic quarters, Ottoman-era architecture, and contemporary districts with galleries and street art.
Where to unwind
Relax along coastal promenades, in hilltop parks overlooking the Bosphorus, or in the courtyards of restored townhouses. Across the country you will find beaches, mountain trails, and spa towns where you can slow the pace and enjoy the landscape.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Turkey is known for grilled meats, savoury pastries, and rich breakfasts, with each region adding its own twist. Istanbul, Gaziantep, and the Aegean and southeastern regions are especially noted for distinctive culinary traditions.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Istanbul and larger cities, you will find casual eateries, contemporary bistros, and family-run spots serving shared plates and quick snacks. Coastal towns add fresh seafood, while inland cities offer hearty regional fare.
Signature & scenic dining
Enjoy rooftop terraces with views over the Bosphorus, waterside restaurants along the strait, and hilltop venues in coastal towns. Many places pair atmospheric settings with tasting menus and modern interpretations of classic recipes.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
In Istanbul and other major cities, large shopping centres bring together international brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining options, often linked to metro lines for easy access.
Markets & local crafts
Look for handwoven textiles, ceramics, copperware, and jewellery in historic bazaars and neighbourhood markets in Istanbul, Cappadocia, and towns across the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets and open-air malls stay lively with illuminated storefronts, late-opening boutiques, and cafés, especially in central Istanbul and popular coastal resorts.
Best time to visit Turkey
Turkey has varied climates, but you can think of three main travel seasons. Peak season (June to August) brings hot summers, with coastal areas often around 28–32°C (82–90°F) and inland cities warmer in the daytime, ideal for beach holidays but busy at main sights. Shoulder season (April to May, September to October) is often the most comfortable time to explore cities and archaeological sites, with many regions around 18–24°C (64–75°F) and cooler evenings, making it easier to combine sightseeing and outdoor activities. Low season (November to March) is cooler, with some inland and eastern areas dropping below 10°C (50°F) and mountain regions falling below 0°C (32°F), while coastal cities such as Istanbul and Antalya are milder but see more rain and fewer crowds.