Flights from Beijing (BJS) to Turkey

Discover Turkey

Discover Turkey

Why visit Turkey?
Turkey sits where Europe meets Asia, blending ancient civilisations, seaside resorts, and lively modern cities. You will find atmospheric bazaars, layered history, and warm hospitality in every region.

What to expect
From the minaret-lined skyline of Istanbul to Cappadocia's surreal rock valleys and the turquoise coast of the Aegean, every area feels distinct. You can move from Ottoman palaces to Roman ruins and coastal promenades in a single journey.

Plan your trip
Many travellers start in Istanbul, then add side trips to Cappadocia, the Aegean or Mediterranean coasts, or historic central towns. Turkey also works well as a gateway between Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia, with good onward links from Istanbul.

Top experiences in Turkey

Explore Istanbul's historic peninsula

Wander between grand mosques, museums, and old streets around Sultanahmet, where the city's layered history comes to life.

Cruise along the Bosphorus

Sail between continents on a Bosphorus cruise, passing waterside palaces, neighbourhoods, and hilltop fortresses.

Discover Cappadocia's otherworldly landscapes

Walk through valleys of rock formations and carved dwellings, and see panoramic views from hilltop lookouts.

Relax on the Turquoise Coast

Swim in clear bays, join coastal boat trips, and stroll lively harbours in resort towns along the Mediterranean and Aegean shores.

Step back in time at ancient ruins

Visit well-preserved archaeological sites across the country, where theatres, streets, and temples still outline former cities.

Soak in traditional bathhouses

Try a classic Turkish bath for steam, marble surroundings, and a relaxing pause in your sightseeing day.

Shop and sip tea in local bazaars

Browse textiles, ceramics, and spices in covered markets, pausing at tea houses to watch everyday life unfold.

Stroll seaside promenades

Join locals on evening walks along coastal promenades, where cafes, views, and a gentle sea breeze set the pace.

Experience Turkey's way of life

Getting around
Turkey has extensive domestic flight networks linking Istanbul with coastal and inland cities, ideal for covering long distances quickly. Intercity buses and some rail routes complement this, with taxis and ride-hailing apps common in major urban areas.

Local life & culture
Neighbourhoods pulse with street-side tea houses, parks, and family-run shops, giving you a close look at daily routines. Each region has its own character, from cosmopolitan Istanbul to laid-back coastal towns and traditional inland communities.

Where to unwind
You can slow down in seaside resorts, quiet inland villages, or hilltop lookouts overlooking valleys and sea views. Urban parks, promenades, and landscaped viewpoints offer simple places to pause during a busy itinerary.

A taste of Turkey

National dishes & specialties
Turkey is known for grilled meats, savoury pastries, and vegetable-based home-style dishes, with regional variations across the country. Coastal cities lean towards seafood, while inland regions highlight hearty stews and oven-baked favourites.

Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find casual eateries, bakeries, and cafes on almost every street, serving quick bites and relaxed meals. Larger cities offer modern bistros and contemporary restaurants that reinterpret classic flavours while staying close to local traditions.

Signature & scenic dining
Rooftop terraces overlooking skylines and waterfront restaurants along the Bosphorus or coastal bays create memorable settings. In many cities, long, leisurely meals stretch into the evening, blending conversation with views and a steady flow of shared plates.

Retail therapy in Turkey

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large shopping centres in major cities gather international brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining under one roof. They provide a comfortable way to combine errands, entertainment, and meals in a single stop.

Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets in cities such as Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya showcase textiles, ceramics, and handmade crafts. Smaller regional towns often have weekly markets, where you can browse everyday goods alongside locally made items.

Evening retail scene
In big cities, main shopping streets stay lively into the evening, with illuminated shopfronts and late-opening cafes. Seasonal night markets and waterfront stalls in resort areas add a relaxed, festive feel after dark.

Best time to visit Turkey

Peak season: June to August brings warm to hot weather, especially along the coasts, with average temperatures around 25–30°C (77–86°F) and busy seaside resorts.

Shoulder season: April to May and September to October offer milder conditions, roughly 15–25°C (59–77°F), ideal for city sightseeing and exploring inland regions.

Low season: November to March is cooler, about 5–15°C (41–59°F), with colder conditions inland and in the east, fewer crowds, and a quieter pace in many destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions