Turkey blends rich history, vivid city life, and stunning coastlines, where Europe and Asia meet. You can walk through ancient ruins, explore bazaars, and relax by turquoise seas in one trip.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
Expect lively cities such as Istanbul, atmospheric towns along the Aegean and Mediterranean, and high plateaus in central Anatolia. Your days can shift from exploring museums and mosques to cruising the Bosphorus or hiking coastal trails.
Plan your trip
Use Istanbul as your gateway, then connect onwards by domestic flights or coaches to Cappadocia, the Turquoise Coast, and beyond. Turkey works well for both short city breaks and longer journeys linking several regions.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul's historic peninsula
Stroll between landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, then wander the nearby streets for views over the Bosphorus and Golden Horn.
Cruise the Bosphorus
Take a Bosphorus cruise to see grand waterfront mansions, bustling neighbourhoods, and the bridges linking Europe and Asia from a different angle.
Discover Cappadocia's otherworldly landscapes
Head inland to marvel at rock formations, cave homes, and sweeping valleys, often seen at sunrise dotted with hot-air balloons.
Unwind on the Turquoise Coast
Relax on beaches near Bodrum, Fethiye, or Antalya, with options for coastal walks, boat trips, and ancient sites close to the shore.
Wander the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market
Dive into centuries-old markets in Istanbul, where narrow lanes brim with textiles, spices, ceramics, and traditional goods.
Visit ancient Ephesus
Combine a trip to the Aegean coast with a visit to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities in the Mediterranean region.
Soak in Pamukkale's terraces
See the white travertine pools of Pamukkale and nearby ancient Hierapolis, a dramatic combination of natural wonder and archaeology.
Experience Istanbul's Asian side
Cross the Bosphorus to Kadikoy or Uskudar for waterfront promenades, independent shops, and a more relaxed neighbourhood feel.
Experience Turkey's way of life
Getting around
Domestic flights link Istanbul with major cities such as Izmir, Antalya, and Kayseri, making long distances easy to cover. Within cities, use trams, metro lines, buses, and taxis, while intercity coaches connect many smaller towns and coastal resorts.
Local life & culture
Daily life in Turkey revolves around lively streets, neighbourhood squares, and long, unhurried conversations. You will notice strong traditions of hospitality, a mix of European and Middle Eastern influences, and distinct regional character between coastal, inland, and eastern areas.
Where to unwind
Relax in traditional hammams, choose a seafront promenade in Istanbul or Izmir, or escape to the forests and beaches of the Black Sea and Mediterranean coasts. Mountain regions and national parks offer quiet trails, viewpoints, and fresh air.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Turkey is known for kebabs, meze spreads, filled pastries, and rich sweets, with each region adding its own twist. Istanbul gathers flavours from across the country, while Gaziantep and the southeast are especially admired for their culinary heritage.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Istanbul, Beyoglu, Karakoy, and Kadikoy brim with casual eateries, cafes, and contemporary restaurants. Coastal towns offer fresh, simple fare in laid-back settings, and you will find international choices in larger cities across the country.
Signature & scenic dining
Enjoy rooftop terraces overlooking the Bosphorus, romantic spots along the Galata Bridge, or waterfront decks on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. Many venues pair city or sea views with carefully prepared, multi-course menus.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Istanbul features expansive malls and lifestyle centres offering international brands, Turkish labels, and entertainment. Other large cities, including Ankara and Izmir, also have modern complexes that combine shopping, dining, and leisure.
Markets & local crafts
For handmade carpets, ceramics, textiles, and metalwork, explore the bazaars of Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Antalya. Smaller regional markets often showcase local crafts, produce, and traditional household items.
Evening retail scene
After dark, Istanbul's shopping streets and waterfront districts stay lively, with illuminated storefronts and late-opening boutiques. In resort towns, evening promenades often feature stalls and small shops perfect for a relaxed browse.
Best time to visit Turkey
Spring shoulder season (April to June) brings mild weather across much of Turkey, with average temperatures around 15–25°C (59–77°F), ideal for city sightseeing and exploring ancient sites. Summer peak season (July to early September) is hot, especially along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts, where temperatures often reach 28–34°C (82–93°F), drawing visitors to beaches and coastal resorts. Autumn shoulder season (late September to November) cools to around 12–22°C (54–72°F), with pleasant conditions in Istanbul and the interior. Winter low season (December to March) is cooler and wetter in coastal areas, with 5–12°C (41–54°F), and can be cold and snowy in central and eastern regions.