Turkey offers a meeting point of continents, where ancient ruins, vibrant bazaars, and coastal retreats sit alongside dynamic modern cities.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
You can move from Istanbul’s grand architecture and buzzing neighbourhoods to Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscapes and the turquoise shores of the Aegean and Mediterranean.
Plan your trip
Base yourself in Istanbul, then add side trips to historic heartlands like Ephesus or the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, using Turkey as a gateway between Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul’s historic peninsula
Wander between landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque, taking in centuries of history within a compact area.
Cruise the Bosphorus
Sail along the strait dividing Europe and Asia, passing waterfront palaces, lively neighbourhoods, and hilltop fortresses at sunset.
Discover Cappadocia’s valleys
Walk or ride through rock-cut churches and sweeping valleys dotted with unique rock formations and cave dwellings.
Relax on the Turquoise Coast
Unwind in coastal towns such as Antalya, Bodrum, or Fethiye, where clear waters meet pine-clad hills and sheltered bays.
Visit ancient ruins at Ephesus
Stroll through one of the region’s grandest archaeological sites, with its marble streets, theatres, and libraries preserved in impressive detail.
Soak in Pamukkale’s terraces
See gleaming white travertine pools cascading down the hillside, with nearby ruins offering a glimpse into ancient spa traditions.
Experience Istanbul’s neighbourhoods
Explore areas like Beyoglu, Karakoy, and Balat, where galleries, cafés, and small boutiques sit within historic streets.
Unwind in a traditional hamam
Step into a historic bathhouse for a steam, scrub, and rest beneath domed ceilings and warm marble.
Experience Turkey’s way of life
Getting around
Use domestic flights to link Istanbul with cities such as Antalya, Izmir, and Kayseri, then rely on intercity buses, trains, and local trams or metros for shorter hops and urban exploring.
Local life & culture
You will find café culture, tea gardens, and lively squares at the heart of daily life, while bazaars, waterfront promenades, and old town streets reveal the country’s blend of European and Asian influences.
Where to unwind
Head to coastal resorts along the Aegean and Mediterranean, lake districts in the interior, or parks and viewpoints around Istanbul’s hills and waterfronts for fresh air and city escapes.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Across Istanbul, Gaziantep, and the Aegean coast, you can sample grilled meats, savoury pastries, meze spreads, and rich desserts that highlight regional ingredients.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Neighbourhoods in Istanbul such as Kadikoy, Karakoy, and Nisantasi offer relaxed eateries, contemporary bistros, and street snacks, with flavours ranging from Anatolian classics to global favourites.
Signature & scenic dining
Book a table at rooftop terraces along the Bosphorus, waterside restaurants in seaside towns, or courtyard venues in restored mansions for memorable meals with a view.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
In Istanbul, large shopping centres bring together international brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining, offering an easy all-in-one retail stop.
Markets & local crafts
Historic bazaars and neighbourhood markets around Istanbul, Izmir, and Cappadocia showcase textiles, ceramics, jewellery, and handmade décor to bring home.
Evening retail scene
Major streets and malls in cities like Istanbul stay lively into the evening, with illuminated shopfronts, late-opening stores, and cafés that keep the atmosphere buzzing.
Best time to visit Turkey
Peak season runs from June to August, when coastal regions are warm and sunny, with average temperatures around 25–30°C (77–86°F), ideal for beach holidays and late-night city strolls. Shoulder season in April to May and September to October offers mild, pleasant weather around 15–24°C (59–75°F), good for sightseeing and exploring both cities and inland regions. Low season from November to March is cooler, from about 5–12°C (41–54°F) in many cities, with some inland areas dropping lower, making it quieter for museums, historic sites, and winter landscapes.