Why visit Turkey?
Turkey bridges Europe and Asia, where ancient cities meet lively seaside towns and mountain landscapes. You feel layers of history in every street, from classical ruins to Ottoman avenues.
What to expect
You can wander the streets and bazaars of Istanbul, explore coastal towns along the Aegean and Mediterranean, or head inland to cave dwellings and rock valleys. Each region offers a different mix of culture, scenery, and tempo.
Plan your trip
Many travellers begin in Istanbul, then add time in other regions by short domestic flights or road journeys. Turkey also connects you conveniently to wider Europe and the Middle East, making it easy to combine with a longer regional itinerary.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul's historic peninsula
Stroll between grand mosques, palaces, and museums in the old city, taking in sweeping views over the Bosphorus.
Cruise along the Bosphorus
Sail between continents on a short cruise, passing ornate waterside mansions and lively neighbourhoods on both shores.
Discover Cappadocia's rock valleys
Walk or drive through a landscape of sculpted cliffs and cave dwellings, with sunrise balloon views for those who wish.
Unwind on the Turquoise Coast
Spend relaxed days swimming, sailing, or exploring bays from resort towns and small harbours along the Mediterranean.
Step back in time at ancient Ephesus
Walk marble streets and theatres in one of the region's best-preserved classical cities near the Aegean coast.
Bathe in Pamukkale's terraces
See white mineral pools cascading down a hillside and explore the nearby ruins of the ancient city above.
Get lost in Istanbul's bazaars
Browse covered markets for textiles, ceramics, and spices, and pause in traditional tea houses between alleys.
Walk the streets of Beyoğlu and Galata
Explore this central district's side streets, historic tower, and lively avenues, where old architecture meets modern galleries.
Experience Turkey's way of life
Getting around
You can connect from Istanbul to most Turkish cities by frequent domestic flights, with road and coach networks linking smaller towns. Within cities, trams, metro lines, and taxis make it straightforward to move between neighbourhoods and sights.
Local life & culture
Daily life often revolves around neighbourhood streets, local tea houses, and small family-run shops. You will notice a mix of European and Asian influences in architecture, music, and customs, with regional differences between coastal, inland, and Black Sea areas.
Where to unwind
You can slow down in traditional bathhouses, seaside promenades, or quiet hilltop viewpoints. Many coastal resorts and inland retreats offer access to beaches, hot springs, hiking paths, and gentle countryside for relaxed day trips.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Across Turkey, you can try grilled meats, savoury pastries, and vegetable dishes that draw on both Mediterranean and inland traditions. Different regions have their own styles, from hearty Anatolian stews to seafood along the coasts.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Istanbul and other large cities, you find simple local eateries, contemporary bistros, and cafes on almost every street. Coastal towns and inland centres offer relaxed spots where you can sample regional flavours in an informal setting.
Signature & scenic dining
Many visitors enjoy meals on rooftops, waterside terraces, or historic courtyards with views of old skylines or the sea. In Istanbul and beyond, dining can be paired with sunsets over the Bosphorus, harbours, or dramatic landscapes.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Istanbul offers large shopping centres that combine international brands, cinemas, and dining in one place. Other major cities also have modern malls where you can shop, eat, and relax in climate-controlled comfort.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and small workshops sell handwoven textiles, ceramics, and copperware, especially in Istanbul and central Anatolian towns. Coastal cities add stalls with local products and souvenirs close to the waterfront.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets in Istanbul and other big cities stay busy with lit storefronts and late-opening boutiques. Some neighbourhoods combine evening strolling, street snacks, and small shops in an easygoing atmosphere.
Best time to visit Turkey
Peak season: June to August, when much of Turkey is warm to hot, from around 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F), especially along the coasts and in major cities.
Shoulder season: April to May and September to October, with milder days around 15°C to 24°C (59°F to 75°F), pleasant for city sightseeing and inland travel.
Low season: November to March, when temperatures can range from 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F) in many regions, with colder conditions and occasional snow inland.