Turkey sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, where ancient civilisations, layered history, and modern city life meet. You will find historic ruins, coastal resorts, and vibrant bazaars all in one journey.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
From the bustling streets and grand mosques of Istanbul to the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia and the turquoise coastline, Turkey offers rich culture, varied landscapes, and lively urban energy alongside quiet rural charm.
Plan your trip
Turkey works well for both first-time visitors and seasoned travellers, with Istanbul often serving as a gateway to the wider country and region. Plan time to explore several regions, using domestic flights and road trips to link key destinations.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul's historic peninsula
Wander the old city to see grand landmarks, atmospheric streets, and centuries-old architecture side by side.
Cruise the Bosphorus
Take a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait to admire palaces, neighbourhoods, and bridges that link Europe and Asia.
Discover Cappadocia's surreal landscapes
Travel inland to see rock-carved homes, valleys, and unusual rock formations shaped over thousands of years.
Unwind on the Turquoise Coast
Head to the Mediterranean shoreline for clear waters, bays, and relaxed resorts backed by forested hills.
Step back in time at ancient Ephesus
Walk among well-preserved ruins and streets that reveal the scale of one of the ancient world’s great cities.
Bathe in Pamukkale’s travertine terraces
Visit white mineral terraces cascading down a hillside, alongside the ruins of the ancient spa city nearby.
Stroll the bazaars and backstreets
Spend time wandering local markets and side streets, browsing textiles, ceramics, and everyday shops.
Visit hilltop fortresses and castles
Climb to citadels and castles overlooking towns and bays for sweeping views and a sense of Turkey’s layered past.
Experience Turkey's way of life
Getting around
Turkey has an extensive network of domestic flights linking Istanbul with coastal and inland cities, supported by intercity buses and growing rail connections. In major cities, public transport, taxis, and ride-hailing services make it straightforward to move between districts.
Local life & culture
Daily life blends traditional customs with contemporary urban living, from lively neighbourhood squares to quieter village streets. You will notice strong community ties, a café culture, and a rhythm that shifts from busy markets by day to relaxed promenades in the evening.
Where to unwind
You can relax in coastal towns along the Aegean and Mediterranean, in countryside retreats, or in parks and waterfront promenades in cities like Istanbul. Mountain and valley regions offer hiking, fresh air, and slower-paced stays close to nature.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Turkey is known for grilled meats, savoury pastries, and vegetable-based dishes, with flavours that vary between regions such as Istanbul, the Aegean coast, and southeastern cities. Coastal areas lean into fresh produce and lighter plates, while inland regions often feature heartier fare.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Across Istanbul and larger cities you will find casual eateries, modern bistros, and family-run spots serving both traditional and contemporary dishes. Street-side cafés and neighbourhood restaurants make it easy to enjoy quick bites or relaxed meals between sightseeing.
Signature & scenic dining
Many cities offer rooftop terraces, waterside venues, and venues with skyline views, especially along the Bosphorus and harbourfronts. Inland, you can dine overlooking valleys, rock formations, or historic townscapes for a memorable setting.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
In Istanbul and other major cities, large shopping centres bring together international brands, local labels, cinemas, and dining. These complexes often sit close to metro or tram lines, making them convenient stops during your stay.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and craft districts showcase textiles, ceramics, metalwork, and decorative items, with Istanbul, Izmir, and regions along the Aegean coast particularly known for their variety. Smaller towns also have weekly markets with local products.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets and some markets remain lively, especially in central Istanbul neighbourhoods and along busy promenades. Cafés and shops stay open late, creating a relaxed atmosphere for strolling and browsing.
Best time to visit Turkey
Peak season: June to August brings warm to hot weather across much of Turkey, with coastal areas averaging around 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F) and inland cities often warmer during the day. Shoulder season: April to May and September to October offer milder conditions, typically around 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), ideal for city sightseeing and touring different regions. Low season: November to March is cooler, with coastal areas around 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F) and some inland areas dropping lower, especially at night, while higher-altitude regions can see winter conditions.