Turkey sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, where ancient empires, seaside resorts, and modern cities meet. You can explore historic treasures, dramatic coastlines, and lively neighbourhoods in a single trip.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
From the iconic skyline of Istanbul to the rock valleys of Cappadocia and the shores of the Aegean and Mediterranean, Turkey offers varied landscapes and city experiences. Expect bustling bazaars, layered history, and warm hospitality wherever you go.
Plan your trip
Use Istanbul as your first stop in Turkey and a convenient gateway to other regions by domestic flight, coach, or self-drive. You can easily combine city sightseeing with coastal escapes or inland adventures across the country.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul’s historic peninsula
Wander between the city’s grand mosques, palaces, and ancient streets in Sultanahmet, and take in views across the Bosphorus from hilltop parks and terraces.
Cruise along the Bosphorus
Sail between continents on a Bosphorus cruise as you pass Ottoman mansions, fortresses, and neighbourhoods that cling to the water’s edge.
Discover Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes
Head inland to see fairy chimney rock formations, cave dwellings, and valleys best viewed at sunrise from a hot air balloon.
Relax on the Turquoise Coast
Unwind in coastal towns such as Antalya, Bodrum, or Fethiye, where clear waters, scenic bays, and yacht-filled marinas frame your days by the sea.
Step back in time at ancient Ephesus
Near the modern town of Selçuk, walk through remarkably preserved Roman streets, theatres, and temples at one of the Mediterranean’s most impressive archaeological sites.
Experience Turkey’s way of life
Getting around
From Istanbul, you can reach most major Turkish cities by frequent domestic flights, intercity buses, or well-maintained highways for self-drive trips. In cities, modern metro lines, trams, taxis, and ride-hailing services make local travel straightforward.
Local life & culture
You will find a relaxed yet energetic rhythm of life, from Istanbul’s café-lined streets and waterfront promenades to slower-paced coastal towns and villages. Traditional crafts, music, and neighbourhood gatherings are part of daily life in many regions.
Where to unwind
Choose from seaside promenades along the Bosphorus, leafy city parks, and coastal trails with sweeping sea views. Inland, hot spring resorts, mountain retreats, and quiet valleys offer space to slow down and reconnect with nature.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Across Turkey, you will find grilled meats, savoury pastries, meze spreads, and rich desserts that vary by region. Istanbul brings many of these flavours together, while Anatolian towns and coastal cities offer their own local specialities.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Istanbul and larger cities, traditional eateries sit alongside contemporary bistros, stylish cafés, and international restaurants. You can graze your way through neighbourhoods lined with casual spots ideal for relaxed meals at almost any time of day.
Signature & scenic dining
For memorable meals, look for rooftop terraces with city views, waterfront restaurants along the Bosphorus, or fine-dining venues that reinterpret classic Turkish flavours. Coastal resorts also offer romantic settings by marinas and sheltered bays.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
In Istanbul, large shopping centres and lifestyle complexes bring together international brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining. Similar malls can be found in coastal cities such as Antalya and Izmir, often with convenient access and extended opening hours.
Markets & local crafts
Historic bazaars and neighbourhood markets offer textiles, ceramics, jewellery, and homeware, especially in Istanbul, Cappadocia, and along the Aegean coast. These are ideal places to look for handmade pieces and regional crafts to bring home.
Evening retail scene
After dark, Istanbul’s main shopping streets, waterfront districts, and some markets stay lively, with illuminated storefronts and late-opening boutiques. In resort towns, marina promenades and old-town lanes buzz with small shops and stalls.
Best time to visit Turkey
Turkey spans several climate zones, but you can broadly think in three travel seasons. From June to August (peak season), coastal and many inland regions are warm to hot, averaging around 25–30°C (77–86°F), with higher temperatures in the south and popular beach areas. From April to May and September to October (shoulder season), many parts of the country are mild and pleasant, often around 15–24°C (59–75°F), ideal for city sightseeing and exploring historical sites. From November to March (low season), temperatures fall, especially inland and in the east, with averages from 5–12°C (41–54°F) in many cities, and some areas experiencing snow and colder conditions.