Turkey sits where Europe meets Asia, blending ancient civilisations, dramatic coastlines, and lively modern cities. You can explore ruins, buzzing bazaars, and waterfront promenades in a single trip.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
From Istanbul's historic peninsula to the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia and the beaches along the Aegean and Mediterranean, Turkey offers varied landscapes and city experiences. Expect welcoming hospitality, layered history, and atmospheric neighbourhoods.
Plan your trip
Use Istanbul as your gateway to the rest of Turkey, with domestic flights and long-distance coaches linking major regions. Combine city breaks, countryside escapes, and coastal stays for a well-rounded journey.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul's historic peninsula
Wander between monumental sights such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapı Palace, then pause in leafy courtyards and bustling squares.
Cruise along the Bosphorus
Take a ferry or cruise to see Istanbul's skyline, palaces, and neighbourhoods from the water, crossing between Europe and Asia in minutes.
Unwind on the Turquoise Coast
Head to coastal towns like Antalya, Fethiye, or Bodrum for clear waters, boat trips, and relaxed seaside promenades.
Discover Cappadocia's otherworldly landscapes
Walk or drive through valleys dotted with rock formations and cave dwellings, and, if you wish, see the sunrise from a hot-air balloon.
Step back in time at Ephesus
Visit one of the Mediterranean's best-preserved ancient cities, with grand ruins that hint at life in a thriving Roman port.
Soak in Pamukkale's terraces
See the striking white travertine pools and nearby ancient city of Hierapolis set on a hill above the plain.
Shop and stroll in Istanbul's bazaars
Browse textiles, ceramics, and spices in historic covered markets, then relax in nearby cafés and side streets.
Walk through Ankara and Izmir's modern quarters
Experience Turkey's contemporary side in wide boulevards, museums, and waterfront areas dotted with galleries and cultural venues.
Experience Turkey's way of life
Getting around
Turkey's major cities are linked by frequent domestic flights, intercity buses, and an expanding rail network. In Istanbul, use trams, metros, ferries, and taxis to move efficiently between districts on both sides of the Bosphorus.
Local life & culture
Daily life in Turkey flows through tea houses, neighbourhood squares, and seaside promenades. You will notice strong community ties, a love of conversation, and a living blend of European and Anatolian traditions across different regions.
Where to unwind
Relax in coastal resorts, tranquil mountain valleys, or urban parks that dot cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Antalya. Traditional bathhouses, scenic viewpoints, and coastal paths offer many ways to slow the pace.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Turkey is known for grilled meats, stuffed vegetables, savoury pastries, and rich desserts like baklava, with regional touches from the Black Sea to the southeast. Istanbul brings together favourites from across the country in one place.
Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find simple eateries, street-side grills, and modern cafés across cities such as Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara. Menus often mix local classics with international influences, making it easy to dine well at any time of day.
Signature & scenic dining
Enjoy long meals on rooftop terraces overlooking Istanbul's skyline, harbourside restaurants along the Aegean, or romantic spots set in restored mansions. Many places pair atmospheric settings with carefully prepared regional dishes.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
In Istanbul and Ankara, large shopping centres bring together international labels, local designers, cinemas, and dining. They are convenient spots for fashion, electronics, and homeware under one roof.
Markets & local crafts
Historic bazaars and neighbourhood markets in Istanbul, Izmir, and Gaziantep showcase textiles, copperware, ceramics, and regional products. These are ideal places to pick up distinctive, handmade souvenirs and gifts.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets and malls in major cities stay lively, with illuminated storefronts, late-opening shops, and plenty of cafés. In some areas, evening markets add to the relaxed, sociable atmosphere.
Best time to visit Turkey
Turkey has varied climates, but you can think in three broad seasons. Peak season runs from June to August, when coastal areas can reach around 28–32°C (82–90°F) and inland cities are warm to hot, ideal for beach holidays but busier. Shoulder season covers April to May and September to October, with milder temperatures of roughly 18–25°C (64–77°F), making it comfortable for city sightseeing and exploring historical sites. Low season is from November to March, when many regions cool to about 5–12°C (41–54°F), some inland and eastern areas see snow, and popular spots are quieter.