Turkey brings together Europe and Asia in one journey, where layered history, coastal landscapes, and lively cities sit side by side. You can explore ancient ruins, atmospheric bazaars, and modern neighbourhoods in a single trip.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
From Istanbul's skyline of domes and towers to Aegean seaside towns and Cappadocia's sculpted valleys, Turkey offers varied regions with distinct character. Expect a blend of historic sites, contemporary art, and warm local hospitality.
Plan your trip
Use Istanbul as your starting point, with its well-connected airports, domestic flights, and intercity buses reaching most parts of the country. Turkey also serves as a convenient gateway between Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul's historic peninsula
Wander the cobbled streets around Sultanahmet to see grand landmarks, museums, and centuries-old architecture overlooking the Bosphorus.
Cruise along the Bosphorus
Take a scenic boat cruise between Europe and Asia, passing palaces, forts, and waterfront neighbourhoods lining the strait.
Discover Cappadocia's landscapes
Travel inland to see otherworldly rock formations, cave dwellings, and sweeping valleys best viewed at sunrise or sunset.
Relax on the Turquoise Coast
Spend time in Aegean and Mediterranean resort towns, where clear bays, marinas, and coastal trails invite slow days by the water.
Visit ancient ruins at Ephesus
Walk through monumental gateways, theatres, and marble streets in one of the Mediterranean's most impressive archaeological sites.
Unwind in Pamukkale's terraces
See white mineral terraces cascading down the hillside and explore nearby ancient pools and ruins.
Stroll Istanbul's vibrant neighbourhoods
Cross between districts such as Karaköy, Beyoğlu, and Kadıköy for galleries, boutiques, and bustling waterfront promenades.
Experience Turkey's way of life
Getting around
Major cities are linked by a wide network of domestic flights, intercity buses, and fast highways. In Istanbul, use trams, metro lines, ferries, and taxis to move efficiently between European and Asian districts.
Local life & culture
Daily life often centres on neighbourhood squares, waterfront promenades, and tea gardens where people gather to talk and linger. You will notice strong traditions of hospitality, with distinct regional styles in music, arts, and architecture.
Where to unwind
Relax in coastal towns along the Aegean and Mediterranean, hike forested trails in the Black Sea region, or spend slow afternoons in Istanbul's parks and hilltop viewpoints watching the city and sea.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Across Turkey you will find grilled meats, savoury pastries, meze plates, and rich desserts, with each region adding its own touches. Istanbul brings together flavours from Anatolia, the Aegean, the Black Sea, and beyond.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Istanbul, lively streets and waterfront districts are lined with cafés, bakeries, and contemporary restaurants serving both local and international menus. Other major cities also offer relaxed eateries, family-run spots, and modern bistros.
Signature & scenic dining
You can dine on terraces overlooking the Bosphorus, in restored mansions, or in intimate courtyards that highlight the city skyline. Coastal destinations offer fresh, sea-facing restaurants ideal for slow, scenic meals.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Istanbul offers large shopping centres with international brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining, often connected to the metro. Other big cities feature modern malls that combine fashion, electronics, and leisure in one place.
Markets & local crafts
Browse historic bazaars and neighbourhood markets in Istanbul, where you can find textiles, ceramics, and copperware, or explore regional towns known for carpets, leather, and handmade crafts.
Evening retail scene
After dark, key shopping streets in Istanbul stay lively with lit façades, late-opening boutiques, and street vendors, while some neighbourhood markets and waterfront promenades come alive with stalls and small shops.
Best time to visit Turkey
Spring shoulder season (April to June) brings mild weather, around 15–25°C (59–77°F) in many regions, ideal for city walks and sightseeing. Summer peak season (July to September) can reach 28–35°C (82–95°F) in Istanbul and coastal areas, with warmer temperatures inland. Autumn shoulder season (October to early November) cools to about 12–22°C (54–72°F), offering comfortable conditions and fewer crowds. Winter low season (December to March) ranges from about 5–12°C (41–54°F) in Istanbul, with colder temperatures and snowfall common in central and eastern parts of the country.