Turkey Holidays
OVERVIEW
Turkey, straddling the crossroads between Europe and Asia, is a country of genuine diversity and splendour. From its rich ethnic and cultural tapestry to breathtaking landscapes and renowned hospitality, this is a country that rarely stops surprising.
As a historic bridge between two continents, Turkey has been home to a huge range of civilisations, offering a genuinely deep well of historical significance. Istanbul and Cappadocia rank as essential stops, showcasing the country's rich heritage in very different ways — Istanbul's vibrant energy, Cappadocia's surreal scenery, including its famous hot air balloon rides. A cruise on a traditional caique along Turkey's coastline reveals picturesque beaches, crystal-clear water, secluded bays, and lush green landscapes.
Turkey's charm extends well beyond its natural beauty too. This is a nation that rivals some of the world's most energetic, dynamic places, dazzling visitors with natural wonders and bustling cities in equal measure. Whether you're exploring the cultural riches of Istanbul, the adventurous spirit of Cappadocia, or the scenic beauty of Bodrum, Turkey delivers a genuinely harmonious blend of prestige and enchantment.
Discover Turkey's vibrant culture and diverse flora and fauna along its spectacular coastline, and experience a country where the magic of the past genuinely meets the vibrancy of the present.
As a historic bridge between two continents, Turkey has been home to a huge range of civilisations, offering a genuinely deep well of historical significance. Istanbul and Cappadocia rank as essential stops, showcasing the country's rich heritage in very different ways — Istanbul's vibrant energy, Cappadocia's surreal scenery, including its famous hot air balloon rides. A cruise on a traditional caique along Turkey's coastline reveals picturesque beaches, crystal-clear water, secluded bays, and lush green landscapes.
Turkey's charm extends well beyond its natural beauty too. This is a nation that rivals some of the world's most energetic, dynamic places, dazzling visitors with natural wonders and bustling cities in equal measure. Whether you're exploring the cultural riches of Istanbul, the adventurous spirit of Cappadocia, or the scenic beauty of Bodrum, Turkey delivers a genuinely harmonious blend of prestige and enchantment.
Discover Turkey's vibrant culture and diverse flora and fauna along its spectacular coastline, and experience a country where the magic of the past genuinely meets the vibrancy of the present.
Our Turkey travel expert says:
"Experience the magic of Turkey's diverse terrain and stunning landscapes, paired with a warm climate for a genuinely unforgettable trip. You'll be welcomed with open arms at restaurants throughout the country, where you can properly savour Turkish cuisine and enjoy real hospitality."
Turkey at a glance
Winter Average
4°C
Summer Average
27°C
Time Zone
GMT+3
5 Must-Do things
in Turkey
Turkey boasts one of the world's most genuinely diverse landscapes, and the range of things to do here is no exception.
Discover Istanbul from the Bosphorus
Take a half-day boat ride along the Bosphorus for a genuinely unique view of Istanbul. Admire stunning mosques and historic Ottoman mansions that stay hidden from the city's streets, all while enjoying a refreshing breeze as you take in these architectural marvels.
Hot Air Balloon Tour
Soar above Cappadocia's breathtaking landscape with a hot air balloon tour. Take in panoramic views of valleys, canyons, and fairy chimneys as you glide over Göreme, Love Valley, and Ürgüp below.
Pamukkale Thermal Springs
Known as the 'Cotton Castle,' Pamukkale features stunning white terraces formed by mineral springs and limestone deposits. Immerse yourself in the 36°C thermal pools, just as the Romans once did, and take in the natural beauty of this genuinely unique site.
Derinkuyu Underground City
Explore the depths of Derinkuyu, an underground city stretching over 60 metres below ground, once home to as many as 20,000 residents. Discover its intricate network of wine cellars, communal rooms, religious schools, stables, and oil presses, all ventilated through a 55-metre shaft.
Scrubbing in a Turkish Bath Hammam
Enjoy a traditional Turkish hammam experience, complete with a special glove that combines history and a genuinely therapeutic culture. These communal baths played a vital role in Ottoman society and offer a properly unique way to relax and cleanse.
Must-See places
in Turkey
Turkey offers a genuinely rich tapestry of cultural experiences, from its beautifully preserved ancient sites to its breathtaking natural landscapes.
Dolmabahce Palace
Set along the Bosphorus in Istanbul's Beşiktaş district, the opulent Dolmabahçe Palace was built between 1843 and 1854 by Armenian architects Nikogos Balyan and his father Garabet Amira Balyan, during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid I.
The Seven Churches of Revelation
The Seven Churches of Revelation — Ephesus, Laodicea, Smyrna, Sardis, Pergamum, Thyatira, and Philadelphia — sit across Aegean Turkey. These ancient sites carry genuine historical and religious significance.
Ephesus
Once a thriving metropolis, Ephesus is home to a genuine wealth of ancient ruins. Visiting this site offers a fascinating glimpse into life 2,000 years ago, with well-preserved remains delivering a properly vivid historical experience.
The Blue Mosque
Renowned for its stunning architecture, the Blue Mosque ranks among Istanbul's most iconic landmarks. Its grandeur shows equally from the outside and within, making it a genuinely essential stop during your stay in Istanbul.
Saint Sophia
A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, Hagia Sophia was originally built as a Christian basilica in 532 under Emperor Justinian. It was later converted into a mosque in the 15th century, then transformed into a museum in 1934. Its historical weight and architectural beauty make it a genuine highlight of any Istanbul visit.
Must-Try food
in Turkey
Is Turkey on your horizon? Get ready for a proper culinary adventure, well beyond just sampling Turkish delight.
Köfte
These tasty meatballs are a key part of Turkish cuisine, made with a special spice blend for a genuinely unique flavour. Whether you prefer traditional or more inventive styles, köfte is close to essential during your Turkey trip.
Baklawa
This delightful Turkish dessert is commonly made during Ramadan — buttery phyllo pastry filled with nuts and soaked in honey. Rich, sweet, and properly indulgent, it pairs perfectly with a cup of Turkish tea.
The kebab
The famous kebab, known worldwide and a genuinely essential Turkish delicacy, carries a rich history dating back to Ottoman times.
Must-Pack
for Turkey
Getting ready for your first trip to Turkey? Here are the essential items worth packing in your suitcase.
Adapter Plug
We'd suggest bringing a universal adapter when travelling, checking it's compatible with your destination country.
Reef-Friendly Sunscreen & Insect Repellent
Avoid sunburn and protect coral reefs with SPF 30 or higher, and pack a generous amount of insect repellent.
Swimsuit
A swimsuit is genuinely essential for swimming, snorkelling, and lounging on Turkey's stunning beaches.
Sunglasses
The sun shines brightly here at times, so a quality pair of sunglasses will properly help protect your eyes.
Backpack
Always bring a smaller bag along for your daytime excursions.
Shoulder Coverage
Turkey is home to beautiful mosques, but shoulders and knees must be covered to enter. Pack a compact sarong for easy, quick coverage.
Other things to know about Turkey before you go
Depending on your nationality, a visa may be required. Check this well in advance, and note that some countries need passports valid for 3-6 months beyond the expiration date, so verify before booking.
Time for a
new
holiday
Take a look at our selection of Turkey holiday packages
Holiday Packages TurkeyPlaces to visit in Turkey
Why would you go on holidays in Turkey?
Turkey: A Welcoming and Fascinating Destination
Turkey offers a genuinely rich array of experiences, from remarkable archaeological sites like Ephesus, the mythical Troy, and Nemrut Dağ, to historical cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, Antalya, and Konya. Enjoy stunning beach destinations like Bodrum and Marmaris, and explore countless hiking trails, including the ascent of Mount Ararat, the country's highest peak. Cultural attractions run deep too, including the famed Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, where you can glimpse the sultans' genuinely opulent lifestyle. Turkey's blend of Ottoman and Byzantine heritage makes it ideal for history lovers, while its position between Europe and Asia only adds to its appeal.
Beaches and Natural Wonders
Turkey's beaches are equally captivating. Butterfly Valley in Fethiye offers a secluded cove with crystal-clear water, while the Blue Lagoon in Ölüdeniz is genuinely postcard-perfect. Çıralı Beach in Kemer, just an hour from Antalya, is a serene spot, favoured by yoga enthusiasts and relatively undiscovered by tourists so far.
Immersive Experiences in Ancient Civilisations
Turkey, straddling East and West, offers a genuinely exotic ambiance and breathtaking landscapes, from the Turkish Riviera to the Aegean coast. Discover the Taurus Mountains through adventurous activities, or explore charming towns like Antalya, Dalaman, Belek, and Side. Experience the magic of ancient civilisations and the enchanting realm of a thousand and one nights.
Unique Destinations and Activities
Butterfly Valley, a genuine haven for bohemian souls, offers relaxation with live music at the Rock Bar. The Çoruh River in Erzurum, with its thrilling rapids, suits rafting and kayaking well, or simply fishing if that's more your pace.
Istanbul: A Must-Visit City
Istanbul, renowned as one of the world's most beautiful cities, blends Christian and Ottoman legacies with genuinely vibrant modernity. Visit iconic sites like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Explore bustling markets such as the Grand Bazaar and the spice market before cruising the Bosphorus for stunning city views. Don't miss the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, home to treasures like Alexander the Great's sarcophagus.
Aegean Sea Delights
Izmir, Turkey's third-largest city, sits on the Aegean Sea and offers a genuinely vibrant cultural scene. The Aegean coast, rich in history and stunning landscapes, includes treasures like Ephesus, Göreme, and Pamukkale. Bodrum, known for its nightlife and luxury, features high-end shops and yachts, alongside historic sites like St. Peter's Fortress.
Historic Cities and Scenic Wonders
Cappadocia's dramatic scenery includes rock formations and ancient cave dwellings. Göreme National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its rock-cut churches and ranks among the top spots for hiking and sampling local Turkish cuisine. The region's landscape, shaped by erosion, offers a genuinely unique glimpse into Byzantine art and history.
Turkey offers a genuinely rich array of experiences, from remarkable archaeological sites like Ephesus, the mythical Troy, and Nemrut Dağ, to historical cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, Antalya, and Konya. Enjoy stunning beach destinations like Bodrum and Marmaris, and explore countless hiking trails, including the ascent of Mount Ararat, the country's highest peak. Cultural attractions run deep too, including the famed Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, where you can glimpse the sultans' genuinely opulent lifestyle. Turkey's blend of Ottoman and Byzantine heritage makes it ideal for history lovers, while its position between Europe and Asia only adds to its appeal.
Beaches and Natural Wonders
Turkey's beaches are equally captivating. Butterfly Valley in Fethiye offers a secluded cove with crystal-clear water, while the Blue Lagoon in Ölüdeniz is genuinely postcard-perfect. Çıralı Beach in Kemer, just an hour from Antalya, is a serene spot, favoured by yoga enthusiasts and relatively undiscovered by tourists so far.
Immersive Experiences in Ancient Civilisations
Turkey, straddling East and West, offers a genuinely exotic ambiance and breathtaking landscapes, from the Turkish Riviera to the Aegean coast. Discover the Taurus Mountains through adventurous activities, or explore charming towns like Antalya, Dalaman, Belek, and Side. Experience the magic of ancient civilisations and the enchanting realm of a thousand and one nights.
Unique Destinations and Activities
Butterfly Valley, a genuine haven for bohemian souls, offers relaxation with live music at the Rock Bar. The Çoruh River in Erzurum, with its thrilling rapids, suits rafting and kayaking well, or simply fishing if that's more your pace.
Istanbul: A Must-Visit City
Istanbul, renowned as one of the world's most beautiful cities, blends Christian and Ottoman legacies with genuinely vibrant modernity. Visit iconic sites like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Explore bustling markets such as the Grand Bazaar and the spice market before cruising the Bosphorus for stunning city views. Don't miss the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, home to treasures like Alexander the Great's sarcophagus.
Aegean Sea Delights
Izmir, Turkey's third-largest city, sits on the Aegean Sea and offers a genuinely vibrant cultural scene. The Aegean coast, rich in history and stunning landscapes, includes treasures like Ephesus, Göreme, and Pamukkale. Bodrum, known for its nightlife and luxury, features high-end shops and yachts, alongside historic sites like St. Peter's Fortress.
Historic Cities and Scenic Wonders
Cappadocia's dramatic scenery includes rock formations and ancient cave dwellings. Göreme National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its rock-cut churches and ranks among the top spots for hiking and sampling local Turkish cuisine. The region's landscape, shaped by erosion, offers a genuinely unique glimpse into Byzantine art and history.
