Turkey bridges Europe and Asia, blending ancient history, coastal beauty, and lively modern cities. You can explore grand monuments, seaside resorts, and rich cultural traditions in one trip.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
From the minarets and bazaars of Istanbul to archaeological sites and rugged coastlines, Turkey offers a mix of heritage, city energy, and relaxed seaside living. Distances are large, so many travellers combine one or two key regions per visit.
Plan your trip
Use Istanbul as your gateway to Turkey and the wider region, with onward domestic flights and intercity buses linking major towns and resort areas. Plan extra time to enjoy both city sights and the country’s varied landscapes.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul’s historic peninsula
Stroll between grand landmarks, atmospheric streets, and the waterfront as you explore Istanbul’s historic heart.
Cruise the Bosphorus
Take a scenic Bosphorus cruise to see palaces, hilltop neighbourhoods, and bridges linking Europe and Asia from the water.
Discover ancient sites
Visit archaeological sites across the country where amphitheatres, temples, and ruins offer a window into earlier civilisations.
Relax by the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts
Unwind in resort towns along the Aegean and Mediterranean, where clear seas and sheltered bays invite long, lazy days outdoors.
Soak in thermal and spa towns
Spend time in Turkey’s spa and thermal regions, where mineral-rich waters and spa hotels offer a restorative break.
Experience Turkey’s way of life
Getting around
Domestic flights and intercity coaches link Istanbul with other major regions, making long distances manageable. Within cities, you can combine trams, metros, taxis, and walking to move easily between neighbourhoods.
Local life & culture
Daily life in Turkey centres around neighbourhood squares, waterfronts, and café terraces where people linger and socialise. Historic districts often sit beside modern quarters, giving you a sense of both tradition and contemporary city life.
Where to unwind
Unwind along coastal promenades, in city parks, and at traditional bathhouses, where time slows down. Many towns also offer scenic viewpoints and gentle walking paths with wide open views.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Across Turkey you will find grilled meats, savoury pastries, fresh salads, and rich desserts that reflect both regional produce and long culinary traditions.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In cities like Istanbul, casual eateries, contemporary bistros, and street-side cafés sit side by side, offering everything from quick bites to modern takes on classic dishes.
Signature & scenic dining
Seek out restaurants with rooftop terraces, sea views, or historic settings, where you can pair local flavours with memorable city or coastal vistas.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large malls in Istanbul and other major cities bring together international brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining, making them convenient stops for shopping and leisure.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and smaller boutiques across Turkey showcase textiles, ceramics, jewellery, and other crafts, giving you a chance to pick up distinctive handmade pieces.
Evening retail scene
After dark, busy shopping streets, illuminated squares, and late-opening malls create a lively atmosphere, with many cafés and shops staying open into the evening.
Best time to visit Turkey
Spring shoulder season (April to June) brings mild weather to much of Turkey, with typical temperatures around 15–25°C (59–77°F), ideal for sightseeing in cities and visiting ancient sites. Summer peak season (July to August) is hot, especially inland and along the coasts, with many areas experiencing 25–35°C (77–95°F) or higher, drawing beachgoers and holidaymakers. Autumn and winter low season (November to March) see cooler conditions of roughly 5–15°C (41–59°F) in many regions, quieter attractions, and a more relaxed pace in cities, though some coastal and highland areas can feel much colder.