Turkey bridges Europe and Asia, blending ancient civilisations, dramatic coastlines, and vibrant city life. You will find timeless ruins, Ottoman palaces, and lively bazaars alongside modern districts.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
From the energy of Istanbul to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia and the turquoise bays of the Aegean and Mediterranean, Turkey offers varied scenery, layered history, and warm hospitality.
Plan your trip
Use Istanbul as your entry point into Turkey, then connect onwards by air or road to coastal resorts, cultural heartlands, and rural regions, making the country an ideal gateway to wider Europe and the Middle East.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul's historic peninsula
Stroll between grand landmarks such as Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque, and soak in centuries of history in the old city streets.
Cruise the Bosphorus
Sail along the Bosphorus Strait to admire Istanbul's palaces, mosques, and hilltop neighbourhoods from the water, where Europe and Asia meet.
Discover Cappadocia's landscapes
Journey inland to see Cappadocia's rock formations, cave dwellings, and valleys, with the chance to view the scenery from a sunrise balloon ride.
Relax on the Turquoise Coast
Head to the Aegean and Mediterranean shores for yacht trips, clear bays, and coastal towns framed by pine-covered hills and ancient ruins.
Wander bustling bazaars
Lose yourself in traditional markets such as Istanbul's Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, where you can browse textiles, ceramics, and fragrant spices.
Step back in time at ancient sites
Visit archaeological treasures across Turkey, from ruined theatres and temples on the Aegean coast to hilltop fortresses inland.
Soak in thermal and spa towns
Unwind in historic spa destinations renowned for mineral-rich waters and soothing thermal pools surrounded by natural scenery.
Experience Turkey's way of life
Getting around
Domestic flights from Istanbul link major Turkish cities quickly, while intercity coaches and rail services connect regions at a relaxed pace. Within cities, use taxis, trams, and metro lines for convenient travel.
Local life & culture
In Turkey you will encounter a café culture, lively neighbourhood squares, and strong traditions of hospitality. Each region has its own character, from cosmopolitan Istanbul to slower-paced coastal towns and historic inland centres.
Where to unwind
You can relax in coastal resorts, tranquil mountain villages, or city parks overlooking the Bosphorus. Many destinations offer spa hotels, scenic promenades, and viewpoints where you can watch the sunset in peace.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Across Turkey you can savour grilled meats, savoury pastries, meze spreads, and rich desserts, with each region adding its own herbs, spices, and cooking styles to shared culinary traditions.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Istanbul and other major cities, casual eateries, cafés, and modern restaurants line busy streets and waterfronts, offering both traditional flavours and contemporary interpretations in relaxed settings.
Signature & scenic dining
You can enjoy memorable meals on rooftop terraces with skyline views, waterside venues along the Bosphorus or Aegean, and refined restaurants housed in historic buildings.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
In Istanbul, large shopping centres combine international brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining, creating all-in-one lifestyle spaces that are easy to reach by public transport.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional bazaars and neighbourhood markets across Istanbul, Izmir, and central Anatolian towns showcase textiles, ceramics, copperware, and other crafts made by local artisans.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets in Istanbul and major resort towns remain lively, with illuminated storefronts, late-opening boutiques, and market stalls creating a festive atmosphere.
Best time to visit Turkey
Spring shoulder season (April to June) brings mild weather across much of Turkey, with temperatures around 15–22°C (59–72°F), ideal for city sightseeing and inland travel. Summer peak season (July to September) is warm to hot, especially along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, where temperatures often range from 25–32°C (77–90°F) and sea conditions are best for swimming. Autumn shoulder season (October to early November) sees comfortable 12–20°C (54–68°F) days in many regions, with fewer crowds and pleasant conditions for exploring historical sites; winter low season (late November to March) can be cool or cold, around 5–12°C (41–54°F) in cities, with colder temperatures and snow in some inland and eastern areas.