Why visit Turkey?
Turkey sits between Europe and Asia, blending ancient history with a lively modern spirit. You will find grand monuments, coastal towns, and warm hospitality wherever you go.
What to expect
From Istanbul on the Bosphorus to Cappadocia, the Turquoise Coast, and the ruins of the Aegean, each region offers a different side of the country. You can move from bustling bazaars to quiet villages in a single trip.
Plan your trip
Turkey works well for both short city breaks and longer journeys across the country. It is also a practical gateway to the wider region, with strong links onward into Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul's historic peninsula
Wander through the old heart of Istanbul, where grand imperial buildings, narrow streets, and the busy waterfront sit side by side.
Cruise along the Bosphorus
Take a boat ride between continents and see palaces, wooden mansions, and lively neighbourhoods from the water.
Discover Cappadocia's surreal landscapes
Walk or drive through valleys filled with rock formations and cave dwellings, with wide views over the central Anatolian plateau.
Unwind on the Turquoise Coast
Swim in clear bays, join coastal boat trips, and stay in small towns and resorts along Turkey's Mediterranean shoreline.
Step back in time at ancient Ephesus
Stroll along marble streets and past theatres and temples in one of the Mediterranean's most impressive archaeological sites.
Relax in Pamukkale's terraces
Walk beside white mineral pools and visit nearby ancient ruins set above a broad, open plain.
Soak in a traditional hamam
Experience a classic bathhouse with steam, heated marble, and a soothing wash and scrub.
Stroll through Istanbul's bazaars
Browse shops selling textiles, ceramics, spices, and everyday goods in lively covered and open-air markets.
Experience Turkey's way of life
Getting around
Turkey has a wide domestic flight network linking Istanbul with major cities and coastal regions, along with intercity buses and modern highways for overland journeys. In Istanbul, you can use trams, metro lines, ferries, and taxis to move smoothly between districts.
Local life & culture
Daily life in Turkey revolves around neighbourhoods, with streetside cafés, local shops, and community squares at the centre. You will notice a strong sense of tradition, from music and handicrafts to language and social customs, varying between big cities, coastal towns, and inland villages.
Where to unwind
Across the country you will find seaside promenades, riverside parks, and hilltop viewpoints where locals gather to relax. Coastal areas offer long walks by the water, while inland regions provide hiking routes, open countryside, and scenic valleys that feel far from city noise.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Turkey is known for grilled meats, rich vegetable dishes, filled pastries, and a wide range of meze shared at the table. Each region adds its own touch, from hearty inland cooking to lighter, olive oil-based dishes by the Aegean and Mediterranean.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In cities like Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara, you will find everything from small lokantas and street snacks to modern cafés and bistros. Coastal towns and resort areas add relaxed waterfront eateries, reflecting both local tastes and international influences.
Signature & scenic dining
Rooftop terraces, Bosphorus-side venues, and restaurants with views over ancient skylines offer memorable settings for a meal. In historic districts and along the waterfront, you can combine city or sea views with long, unhurried dining experiences.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir feature large shopping centres that mix international brands with local labels, cinemas, and dining areas. These modern complexes make it easy to combine errands, leisure, and meals in one stop.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets across Turkey showcase textiles, ceramics, copperware, and regional products. In Istanbul, along the Aegean coast, and in central Anatolia, you can look for handmade items that reflect local styles and techniques.
Evening retail scene
In big cities, many shops and streetside boutiques stay open into the evening, creating a lively atmosphere. Certain districts are known for lit-up shopping streets and late-night strolling, especially in Istanbul's central neighbourhoods.
Best time to visit Turkey
Peak season: June to August, when coastal areas are hot and sunny, with temperatures often around 28–32°C (82–90°F), and inland cities can be warmer during the day.
Shoulder season: April to May and September to October, with milder conditions of about 18–25°C (64–77°F), comfortable for both city visits and outdoor exploring.
Low season: November to March, when many regions are cooler at roughly 5–12°C (41–54°F), and some inland or eastern areas may experience colder weather and occasional snow.