Turkey bridges Europe and Asia, where ancient ruins, grand mosques, and shimmering coasts meet modern cities. You can explore layered history, lively bazaars, and a welcoming café culture in one memorable trip.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
Expect a vivid mix of old and new, from Istanbul’s skyline of minarets and contemporary galleries to coastal resorts and historic towns inland. Travel here centres on atmospheric neighbourhoods, archaeological sites, and sweeping sea and mountain landscapes.
Plan your trip
Use Istanbul as your first stop in Turkey, then connect onwards to regions like Cappadocia, the Aegean, or the Turquoise Coast. You can combine city breaks, coastal stays, and countryside escapes within a single journey.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul’s historic peninsula
Stroll between grand landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, and take in centuries of history within a compact, walkable district.
Cruise the Bosphorus
Sail between Europe and Asia on a Bosphorus cruise for views of Ottoman palaces, waterfront mansions, and the city’s distinctive bridges and skyline.
Discover Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscapes
Head inland to see rock-cut churches, cave dwellings, and sculpted valleys, with sunrise hot-air balloon flights a memorable way to take in the scenery.
Unwind on the Turquoise Coast
Relax in seaside towns along the Mediterranean, where clear waters, sheltered bays, and coastal trails invite days of swimming and boat trips.
Walk through ancient ruins at Ephesus
Wander among marble streets, theatres, and temples in one of the Mediterranean’s best-preserved classical cities near the Aegean coast.
Soak in Pamukkale’s terraces
Visit the white travertine pools and nearby ancient city of Hierapolis for a striking blend of natural formations and archaeological remains.
Shop and sip tea in Istanbul’s bazaars
Browse carpets, ceramics, and spices in historic markets, pausing in traditional tea houses for a glass of Turkish tea between stalls.
Experience Turkey’s way of life
Getting around
From Istanbul, you can fly to major Turkish cities and resort regions in a few hours, while intercity coaches and trains link key hubs on the ground. Within cities, use trams, metro lines, and taxis, or explore historic districts on foot.
Local life & culture
In Turkey, daily life often unfolds in neighbourhood squares, tea gardens, and waterfront promenades, where friends meet and families stroll. You will notice strong regional identities, from coastal towns with a maritime feel to inland communities steeped in long-held traditions.
Where to unwind
You can unwind in traditional bathhouses, quiet courtyards, and leafy city parks, or escape to the countryside for hiking and coastal walks. Along the Aegean and Mediterranean, beach clubs and bays offer calm spots to relax by the water.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Across Turkey, you will find grilled meats, rich vegetable stews, stuffed vine leaves, and fresh breads, often served with seasonal produce. Istanbul and regions such as the Aegean and south-east are known for distinct takes on classic dishes.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In cities like Istanbul and Izmir you can eat at relaxed lokantas, contemporary bistros, and waterside cafés serving both traditional flavours and modern interpretations. Street-side eateries and local bakeries make it easy to enjoy quick, satisfying meals throughout the day.
Signature & scenic dining
You can dine on rooftop terraces overlooking Istanbul’s skyline, or choose seaside restaurants along the Bosphorus or on the coast for sunset views. Many destinations also offer intimate courtyards and garden settings for slower, more atmospheric meals.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
In Istanbul, large shopping centres and lifestyle complexes bring together international fashion, electronics, and Turkish brands under one roof. Many malls also feature cinemas, dining zones, and family-friendly spaces, making them easy places to spend a few hours.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets in Istanbul, Izmir, and Cappadocia’s towns showcase handwoven textiles, ceramics, copperware, and regional specialties. Smaller artisan shops often sit alongside stalls, giving you the chance to find both everyday items and one-of-a-kind pieces.
Evening retail scene
After dark, Istanbul’s main shopping streets and waterfront promenades stay lively with illuminated storefronts, late-opening boutiques, and seasonal stalls. In resort towns, evening bazaars and craft markets are relaxed places to browse souvenirs after a day by the sea.
Best time to visit Turkey
Spring shoulder season (April to June) brings mild weather across much of Turkey, with average temperatures around 15–25°C (59–77°F), ideal for sightseeing in cities and exploring historical sites. Summer peak season (July to September) is hot and dry, especially along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, where temperatures often reach 28–35°C (82–95°F) and the sea is warm for swimming. Autumn shoulder season (October to early November) cools to about 12–22°C (54–72°F), offering comfortable conditions for city visits and inland travel, while winter low season (December to March) can be chilly, with 5–12°C (41–54°F) in many cities and colder conditions in the interior.