Turkey bridges Europe and Asia, offering ancient ruins, vibrant cities, and dramatic coastlines. You will find a blend of history, urban energy, and warm hospitality.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
Experience the grand avenues and landmarks of Istanbul, seaside towns along the Aegean and Mediterranean, and historic sites such as Cappadocia and Ephesus across the country.
Plan your trip
Turkey works well for both short city breaks and longer itineraries combining several regions. Istanbul is also a convenient gateway for onward travel within Turkey and to nearby countries.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul old city
Stroll through Istanbul old city to see grand landmarks, bustling streets, and sweeping views over the Bosphorus.
Cruise the Bosphorus
Take a Bosphorus cruise to admire palaces, waterfront mansions, and the changing skyline from the water.
Discover Cappadocia landscapes
Venture to Cappadocia for its rock formations, cave dwellings, and sunrise views from hilltops or terraces.
Visit ancient Ephesus
Walk among the ruins of Ephesus to see streets, theatres, and monuments that reflect its ancient importance.
Relax on the Turquoise Coast
Spend time in coastal towns such as Antalya or Fethiye, where beaches, marinas, and nearby ruins sit side by side.
Unwind in Pamukkale
See the white terraces of Pamukkale and nearby ancient remains, set in a striking natural landscape.
Experience Istanbul modern districts
Explore neighbourhoods such as Beyoglu and Karakoy, where historic streets mix with galleries, cafes, and boutiques.
Experience Turkey's way of life
Getting around
Domestic flights link Istanbul with cities such as Ankara, Izmir, Antalya, and Kayseri, ideal for covering long distances. Within cities, you can use trams, metros, buses, taxis, and ride-hailing apps, while intercity buses and trains connect major regions.
Local life & culture
In Turkey you will find lively neighbourhood squares, busy tea houses, and a rhythm of life that moves from relaxed mornings to late evenings. Different regions have distinct traditions, from coastal resort towns to central Anatolian cities.
Where to unwind
You can unwind in city parks along the Bosphorus, coastal promenades on the Aegean and Mediterranean, or hiking trails in Cappadocia and the Taurus Mountains. Many resorts and spas across the country offer spaces to rest after a day of sightseeing.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Turkey is known for grilled meats, savoury pastries, and sweet treats such as baklava, with Istanbul, Gaziantep, and Izmir each offering their own specialities.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, you will find casual eateries, waterfront spots, and modern restaurants that offer both local and international flavours, suiting quick bites or longer meals with friends.
Signature & scenic dining
Enjoy memorable meals in rooftop venues overlooking the Bosphorus, terraces set above old city skylines, or seaside restaurants along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir have large shopping centres that combine international brands with local designers, plus cinemas and dining, giving you many options under one roof.
Markets & local crafts
In Istanbul, coastal towns, and Anatolian cities you will find markets and small shops offering textiles, carpets, ceramics, and other crafts that reflect local styles.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets and waterfront promenades in cities such as Istanbul and Antalya stay lively, with illuminated storefronts and late-opening boutiques.
Best time to visit Turkey
Peak season runs from June to August, when coastal areas are warm to hot, with typical daytime temperatures around 25–32°C (77–90°F) and very sunny conditions, especially along the Mediterranean and Aegean. Shoulder season covers April to May and September to October, with pleasant temperatures of about 15–25°C (59–77°F), making it comfortable for both city sightseeing and visiting inland regions. Low season is from November to March, when coastal cities such as Istanbul average 5–12°C (41–54°F) and some inland areas can be colder, which suits quieter city breaks and exploring museums.