Turkey sits at the meeting point of Europe and Asia, where ancient civilisations, seaside resorts, and energetic cities come together. You will find layered history, coastal escapes, and a welcoming café culture.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
Expect a mix of Ottoman architecture in Istanbul, surreal landscapes in Cappadocia, and turquoise shores along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. The country blends historic sites, modern neighbourhoods, and vibrant bazaars.
Plan your trip
Many travellers start in Istanbul before flying on to regions such as Cappadocia, the Aegean coast, or the Black Sea. Turkey is also a convenient base for exploring surrounding parts of Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul's historic peninsula
Wander between landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque, then pause in leafy courtyards and traditional tea gardens.
Cruise along the Bosphorus
Take a ferry or cruise along the Bosphorus Strait to see grand waterfront mansions, hilltop palaces, and neighbourhoods that line both Europe and Asia.
Discover Cappadocia's otherworldly landscapes
Visit Cappadocia to see its rock formations, cave dwellings, and valleys, with sunrise balloon views for a striking panorama of the region.
Unwind on the Turquoise Coast
Head to coastal towns such as Antalya, Fethiye, or Bodrum for beaches, warm seas, and scenic sailing routes dotted with coves and bays.
Step back in time at ancient Ephesus
Walk through the well-preserved streets of Ephesus near Izmir to admire grand ruins including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre.
Soak in Pamukkale's terraces
See the white travertine terraces of Pamukkale and the nearby ruins of Hierapolis perched above the valley.
Stroll Istanbul's neighbourhoods
Explore contrasting districts such as Karaköy, Beyoğlu, and Kadıköy, where galleries, cafés, and waterfront promenades shape daily life.
Experience Turkey's way of life
Getting around
Turkey has an extensive domestic flight network linking Istanbul with cities such as Izmir, Antalya, and Kayseri, ideal for covering longer distances. In many regions you can also travel by intercity coach or rail, with local buses and trams within major cities.
Local life & culture
Daily life often centres on cafés, neighbourhood squares, and seaside promenades where people meet, talk, and linger. You will notice a strong sense of hospitality, from shopkeepers in bazaars to family-run guesthouses in smaller towns.
Where to unwind
Relax in coastal resorts along the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, enjoy tree-lined parks and viewpoints in Istanbul and Ankara, or head to lakes, valleys, and national parks for nature walks and fresh air.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
You will find grilled meats, savoury pastries, meze spreads, and rich desserts across the country, with each region adding its own flavours. Istanbul brings together tastes from all over Turkey, while cities such as Gaziantep are known for their culinary heritage.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Istanbul, Kadıköy, Karaköy, and Nişantaşı offer relaxed eateries and modern bistros, while coastal cities serve fresh, simple plates near the waterfront. Street-side cafés and bakeries make it easy to grab a quick bite between sights.
Signature & scenic dining
Enjoy rooftop terraces in Istanbul with sweeping views of the Bosphorus, or dine by marinas in Bodrum and Antalya. In Cappadocia, many cave restaurants and terraces overlook valleys that glow at sunset.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Istanbul offers large shopping centres with international brands, local designers, and dining, often linked to metro lines. Similar complexes can be found in Ankara, Izmir, and Antalya, combining fashion, entertainment, and leisure.
Markets & local crafts
Browse historic bazaars and neighbourhood markets in Istanbul, Izmir, and Bursa for textiles, ceramics, copperware, and local produce. Smaller towns also feature artisan workshops where you can find handwoven items and regional crafts.
Evening retail scene
In major cities, shopping streets stay lively into the evening with illuminated storefronts and late-opening boutiques. Some coastal towns also host night markets during the warmer months, alongside waterfront promenades.
Best time to visit Turkey
Turkey spans several climate zones, so conditions vary between the coasts, inland plateaus, and eastern regions. Spring (April to June) is generally a shoulder season, with mild temperatures around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) in many western and coastal areas, and comfortable sightseeing conditions in Istanbul and Cappadocia. Summer (July to September) is typically the peak season, when coastal regions can reach 28°C to 34°C (82°F to 93°F), and inland cities become hot and dry, drawing visitors to the Aegean and Mediterranean beaches. Autumn (October to November) acts as another shoulder season, with cooler days of about 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F) and fewer crowds, especially pleasant for city and cultural trips. Winter (December to March) is considered low season for most coastal regions, with temperatures around 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F) in Istanbul and the west, while some inland and eastern areas turn cold and snowy, which appeals to winter sports travellers.