Why visit Turkey?
Turkey sits where Europe meets Asia, offering grand historic cities, dramatic coastlines, and a rich layered heritage. You can wander ancient ruins, step into ornate palaces, and sail along beautiful bays in a single trip.
What to expect
Most journeys begin in Istanbul, with its skyline of domes and towers, lively neighbourhoods, and Bosphorus views. From there, you can connect to Cappadocia, the Aegean and Mediterranean coast, and the archaeological sites scattered across the country.
Plan your trip
You can combine culture, nature, and seaside relaxation in one itinerary, with good domestic links between major regions. Turkey also works well as a gateway between Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia, making it easy to pair with other destinations.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul's historic peninsula
Stroll between grand mosques, palaces, and museums in Sultanahmet, taking in centuries of history within a compact, walkable area.
Cruise along the Bosphorus
Take a scenic boat trip to see Istanbul's hills, waterfront mansions, and bridges from the water, especially atmospheric at sunset.
Discover Cappadocia's otherworldly landscapes
Walk or ride through valleys of rock formations and cave dwellings, with the option of a sunrise hot-air balloon flight over the terrain.
Unwind on the Turquoise Coast
Head to the Mediterranean shoreline for clear blue waters, boat trips to hidden coves, and relaxed seaside towns.
Step back in time at ancient Ephesus
Wander among grand ruins, colonnaded streets, and theatres at one of the best-preserved classical sites in the region.
Walk the streets of Beyoğlu and Galata
Experience Istanbul's modern side with galleries, cafes, and boutiques set around historic streets and viewpoints.
Soak in Pamukkale's terraces
Visit the white travertine pools and nearby ancient site, combining natural scenery with archaeological interest.
Sail on a traditional gulet
Join a coastal cruise on a wooden boat, stopping to swim in bays and explore small harbours along the Aegean or Mediterranean.
Experience Turkey's way of life
Getting around
You can fly between Istanbul and major Turkish cities in just an hour or two, making it simple to combine regions in one trip. Long-distance buses and intercity coaches connect coastal towns and inland hubs, with short local taxi or tram rides completing most journeys.
Local life & culture
Daily life often centres on neighbourhood squares, tea gardens, and lively streets where people meet to talk and unwind. Across the country, you will notice differences in architecture, music, and customs between the coast, big cities, and smaller inland towns, each with its own rhythm.
Where to unwind
Seaside promenades, parks along the Bosphorus, and landscaped city gardens give you calm spots to pause between sightseeing. Beyond the cities, you can find walking trails through valleys, viewpoints over rock formations, and peaceful coastal paths above the sea.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Turkey is known for grilled meats, rich vegetable dishes, and sweet pastries, with each region adding its own flavours. Coastal areas lean towards fresh produce and lighter meals, while central regions are known for hearty, comforting plates.
Casual & modern dining hubs
You can find simple local eateries, bakeries, and modern cafes side by side in Istanbul and other major cities. Different neighbourhoods highlight regional cooking styles from across the country, so you can sample a wide range of flavours without travelling far.
Signature & scenic dining
Many restaurants take advantage of waterfront and hillside settings, pairing views with carefully prepared menus. In Istanbul, elevated terraces, Bosphorus-side venues, and restored historic buildings create memorable backdrops for a relaxed meal.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
In Istanbul and other big cities you will find large shopping centres that bring together international labels, local designers, and dining options under one roof. Many modern malls also include cinemas and entertainment spaces, making them easy places to spend a few hours.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets in Istanbul, İzmir, and Antalya showcase textiles, ceramics, and metalwork, alongside everyday household items. Smaller towns and regional centres often specialise in particular crafts, where you can browse handmade pieces and talk directly with artisans.
Evening retail scene
In the evenings, central streets and shopping districts stay lively with illuminated storefronts and late-opening boutiques. In some areas, small stalls and side streets add to the atmosphere, giving you a mix of modern and traditional retail after dark.
Best time to visit Turkey
Peak season: June to August brings warm to hot weather across much of Turkey, with coastal areas often around 28–32°C (82–90°F). This is the busiest time for seaside resorts and many cultural sites.
Shoulder season: April to May and September to October offer milder temperatures of about 18–25°C (64–77°F) in many regions. These months can be more comfortable for city walks and visiting inland attractions.
Low season: November to March is cooler, with coastal cities often around 8–15°C (46–59°F) and some inland areas dropping lower. This period is quieter, with shorter days but a calmer feel in many destinations.