Turkey brings together Europe and Asia in one country, where ancient cities, dramatic coastlines, and mountain landscapes sit alongside lively modern life. You can explore layered history, warm hospitality, and a rich mix of cultures in one trip.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
From the bustling streets and historic quarters of Istanbul to the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia and the turquoise bays of the Aegean coast, Turkey offers strikingly varied scenery. You will find atmospheric bazaars, well-preserved archaeological sites, and coastal resorts suited to both relaxation and adventure.
Plan your trip
Use Istanbul as your gateway to Turkey and the wider region, with easy onward links to cities across Anatolia and the Mediterranean coast. Allow time for both city exploration and at least one other region, so you can experience Turkey’s contrast between urban energy and wide open landscapes.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul’s historic peninsula
Wander past grand mosques, former imperial palaces, and Byzantine landmarks in Sultanahmet, then pause at viewpoints looking over the Bosphorus.
Sail the Turquoise Coast
Join a boat trip or multi day cruise from towns like Fethiye or Bodrum to swim in clear bays and visit small coastal villages along the Aegean and Mediterranean shores.
Discover Cappadocia’s valleys
Walk among rock formations and ancient rock hewn dwellings in Cappadocia’s valleys, and, if you choose, experience sunrise views from a hot air balloon.
Step back in time at Ephesus
Visit the archaeological site of Ephesus near Izmir to see grand avenues, theatres, and libraries that reflect the scale of a former classical city.
Soak in Pamukkale’s terraces
Walk along the white travertine pools of Pamukkale and explore the nearby ruins of Hierapolis set on a high plateau with wide views.
Unwind on Antalya’s beaches
Combine days on the beach with strolls through Antalya’s old town, where cobbled lanes lead to a historic harbour backed by cliffs and mountains.
Experience Istanbul’s Bosphorus
Take a ferry or cruise along the Bosphorus to see waterside neighbourhoods, grand mansions, and hilltop fortresses from the water.
Visit the ruins of Troy
Travel to the site associated with ancient Troy to walk among excavated city layers and learn about the myths that surround this historic place.
Experience Turkey’s way of life
Getting around
Domestic flights link Istanbul with major cities such as Ankara, Izmir, Antalya, and Kayseri, making it easy to cover longer distances. Within regions, coaches, local buses, and car hire give you flexibility to reach coastal towns, inland villages, and historic sites.
Local life & culture
Daily life in Turkey is sociable, with people gathering in neighbourhood cafes, tea gardens, and lively squares. You will notice regional differences in architecture, music, and traditions between coastal areas, central Anatolia, and the Black Sea, yet a strong sense of welcome is shared across the country.
Where to unwind
You can relax along long stretches of coastline on the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, or head inland for walks among Cappadocia’s valleys and the lakes and mountains of eastern regions. Many resorts and cities also offer traditional bathhouses and modern spas where you can pause and recharge after days of sightseeing.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Turkey is known for grilled meats, savoury pastries, meze spreads, and rich desserts, with each region adding its own touch. Istanbul, Gaziantep, and Adana are especially celebrated for their culinary heritage and generous approach to shared meals.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Istanbul, neighbourhoods on both the European and Asian sides offer relaxed eateries, contemporary restaurants, and street side stalls. Cities like Izmir, Antalya, and Bursa serve a wide range of flavours, from simple home style cooking to inventive takes on long established recipes.
Signature & scenic dining
You can dine with skyline views over the Bosphorus, in restored townhouses, or at terraces overlooking coastal bays and mountain scenery. Many restaurants highlight seasonal produce and freshly caught seafood, creating memorable meals in striking settings.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Istanbul has large shopping centres that combine international labels with local brands, cinemas, and dining areas in one place. Major cities such as Ankara, Izmir, and Antalya also feature modern malls where you can find fashion, electronics, and lifestyle stores under one roof.
Markets & local crafts
Historic bazaars and neighbourhood markets offer textiles, ceramics, metalwork, and decorative pieces that reflect local craftsmanship. Istanbul, Gaziantep, and Konya are known for rich traditions in weaving, leather, and handmade goods that make distinctive keepsakes.
Evening retail scene
In Istanbul and other large cities, main shopping streets and some bazaars stay lively into the evening, with illuminated shopfronts and late opening cafes nearby. Coastal towns add relaxed promenades with boutique stores, where you can browse before or after dinner.
Best time to visit Turkey
Turkey has varied climates, but three broad travel seasons help you plan. Peak season runs from June to August, when many coastal areas enjoy warm, dry weather with average temperatures around 28–32°C (82–90°F), ideal for beach breaks but busier in popular resorts. Shoulder season typically falls in April to May and September to October, with comfortable conditions of about 18–25°C (64–77°F) in many cities, making it well suited to sightseeing and inland travel. Low season lasts from November to March, when temperatures in much of the country can range from 5–12°C (41–54°F) and mountain regions drop below freezing, bringing quieter attractions, shorter days, and, in some areas, snow.