Why visit Turkey?
Turkey sits where Europe meets Asia, blending ancient history with lively modern cities and sweeping coastlines. You can wander preserved ruins, buzzing bazaars, and seaside promenades on the same trip. The country feels both familiar and surprising, with deep traditions and a warm welcome.
What to expect
Most visits start in Istanbul, where grand architecture, waterfront neighbourhoods, and hilltop viewpoints define the skyline. Beyond the city, regions such as Cappadocia, the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, and the central plains offer very different landscapes and rhythms. Each region has its own character, shaped by centuries of trade and culture.
Plan your trip
You can combine city sights, coastal relaxation, and inland adventures in one itinerary thanks to strong domestic links. Turkey also works well as a gateway, connecting you onward between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. With a little planning, you can balance headline attractions with quieter corners that suit your pace.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul's historic peninsula
Stroll between landmark mosques, palaces, and ancient streets, then pause in leafy courtyards and traditional cafés.
Cruise along the Bosphorus
Take a boat trip between continents, passing waterfront mansions, hilltop fortresses, and busy neighbourhood piers.
Wander through vibrant bazaars
Browse textiles, ceramics, spices, and jewellery in Istanbul's atmospheric covered markets and surrounding streets.
Unwind on the Turkish coast
Head to Aegean and Mediterranean resorts for clear seas, coastal walks, and relaxed harbourfront evenings.
Discover ancient ruins and archaeological sites
Visit Greco-Roman theatres, temples, and city remains set on hillsides, by the sea, or among quiet countryside.
Soak in traditional hammams
Experience steam rooms, stone hot rooms, and soothing treatments in historic bathhouses and modern spas.
Explore neighbourhood life in Istanbul
Cross bridges and hills to find café-filled streets, independent galleries, and lived-in districts away from the main sights.
Experience Turkey's way of life
Getting around
Turkey has an extensive network of domestic flights linking Istanbul with major regional cities and resort areas. Inter-city coaches, urban metros, trams, and ferries help you move smoothly between neighbourhoods, while taxis and ride-hailing services cover shorter hops.
Local life & culture
Daily life balances tradition and urban energy, especially in Istanbul's dense districts along the Bosphorus. You will notice a strong café culture, lively street scenes, and neighbourhoods that keep their own pace, from historic quarters to newer residential areas.
Where to unwind
Parks, seaside promenades, and viewpoint terraces offer calm spaces within the city. Across the country, you can slow down on coastal paths, in thermal spa towns, or among rock formations and valleys, choosing between gentle walks or simple time outdoors.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Turkey is known for charcoal-grilled meats, savoury pastries, rich stews, and vegetable-based dishes that vary by region. Istanbul brings together flavours from across the country, making it easy to sample classics from coastal, central, and southeastern traditions in one place.
Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find family-run eateries, contemporary bistros, and café-lined streets throughout Istanbul. Neighbourhoods on both the European and Asian sides offer convenient spots for quick bites, shared plates, and late breakfasts, with menus that reflect local ingredients and seasonal produce.
Signature & scenic dining
Waterfront terraces along the Bosphorus, rooftop venues with skyline views, and restored historic buildings set the scene for memorable meals. From relaxed evenings by the water to special-occasion dining with panoramic outlooks, it is easy to pair good food with a striking setting.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Istanbul hosts large shopping centres that combine international brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining in one place. These complexes are easy to access by metro or bus, and often include open-air sections that feel like small urban districts.
Markets & local crafts
Historic bazaars and surrounding streets showcase textiles, carpets, ceramics, metalwork, and contemporary design pieces. Istanbul, Izmir, and coastal towns have markets where you can look for handmade items, regional delicacies, and everyday goods side by side.
Evening retail scene
After dark, central streets and waterfront areas stay lively, with boutiques, malls, and smaller shops opening late. Night-time markets and illuminated avenues add to the atmosphere, encouraging relaxed browsing after a day of sightseeing.
Best time to visit Turkey
Spring shoulder season (April to June): Expect mild to warm days, around 15–25°C (59–77°F), with cooler evenings, especially inland. This is shoulder season, with pleasant conditions for city walks and sightseeing before peak summer.
Summer peak season (July to September): Coastal and many inland areas are hot, often 25–35°C (77–95°F) or higher, with warm nights and strong sunshine. This is peak season, especially on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts.
Autumn and winter low season (October to March): Temperatures vary by region, with Istanbul typically 5–15°C (41–59°F) and some areas turning colder. This is generally low season, bringing quieter attractions and a different, more local pace.