Why visit Turkey?
Turkey offers a striking blend of East and West, where ancient civilisations, seaside resorts, and lively cities meet. You will find grand monuments, friendly hospitality, and a culture shaped by centuries of trade and travel.
What to expect
From the bustling streets and skyline of Istanbul to the fairy-tale rock formations of Cappadocia and the beaches of the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, Turkey offers varied landscapes. Historic sites, thermal springs, and serene highlands give you many ways to shape your journey.
Plan your trip
Turkey works well as a stand-alone destination or as part of a wider regional trip across Europe and the Middle East. With Istanbul as a major aviation hub, you can easily connect onwards after exploring the country’s highlights.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul’s historic peninsula
Wander through the old city to see grand mosques, palaces, and centuries-old bazaars clustered around the Bosphorus.
Cruise along the Bosphorus
Take a ferry or cruise to see Istanbul’s skyline, waterfront mansions, and hilltop fortresses from the water.
Discover Cappadocia’s valleys
Walk or take a hot-air balloon ride over Cappadocia’s rock formations, cave dwellings, and honeycombed hills.
Relax on the Turquoise Coast
Swim, sail, or sunbathe along the Aegean and Mediterranean shores near Bodrum, Fethiye, and Antalya.
Step back in time at Ephesus
Visit the ruins of Ephesus to see ancient streets, theatres, and temples that recall the Roman era.
Soak in Pamukkale’s terraces
Walk barefoot along white travertine pools fed by mineral-rich waters near the ancient site of Hierapolis.
Stroll Istanbul’s vibrant neighbourhoods
Explore areas like Beyoğlu and Kadıköy, where historic streets mix with galleries, cafés, and lively nightlife.
Experience Turkey’s way of life
Getting around
Domestic flights link Istanbul with coastal cities and central regions, making long distances shorter and more comfortable. Intercity buses, modern highways, and some rail services help you travel between major towns and resort areas.
Local life & culture
Daily life in Turkey moves between historic quarters, seaside promenades, and modern districts. You will notice strong traditions of hospitality, vibrant café culture, and a mix of European and Middle Eastern influences in architecture, music, and social life.
Where to unwind
You can relax in seaside towns, lakeside retreats, and mountain villages across the country. Thermal spa resorts, coastal promenades, and scenic parks in cities like Istanbul and Antalya offer quiet spots to pause between days of sightseeing.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Turkey is known for grilled meats, savoury pastries, and rich mezze spreads, with each region adding its own style. Coastal towns lean towards seafood, while central areas offer hearty, slow-cooked dishes.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Istanbul and other large cities, you can find simple eateries, contemporary restaurants, and international flavours side by side. Streets lined with cafés and bakeries make it easy to grab a quick bite between sights.
Signature & scenic dining
Rooftop terraces, waterfront restaurants, and hilltop cafés provide memorable settings for a meal. Dining with views of the Bosphorus, historic skylines, or sunset bays adds an extra layer to your Turkish experience.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern shopping centres in Istanbul and other big cities offer international brands, local designers, and entertainment options. You will find everything from fashion and electronics to homeware under one roof.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional bazaars and neighbourhood markets are ideal for seeking textiles, ceramics, and locally made goods in cities such as Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya. Smaller towns also showcase regional crafts and handicrafts unique to their area.
Evening retail scene
In major cities, shopping streets and some malls stay active into the evening, creating a lively atmosphere. You can browse boutiques, enjoy window shopping, and combine your purchases with a relaxed café stop after dark.
Best time to visit Turkey
Peak season: June to August brings warm to hot weather, especially along the coasts, with average temperatures around 25–30°C (77–86°F). This is a busy time in beach resorts and popular cities.
Shoulder season: April to May and September to October offer milder conditions, around 15–25°C (59–77°F), ideal for sightseeing and exploring historic sites with fewer crowds.
Low season: November to March is cooler, with averages between 5–15°C (41–59°F), and some inland areas can see colder weather. Coastal regions are quieter, and some resort facilities may reduce operations.