Turkey is a popular European travel destination with its capital Ankara. Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY). Language: Turkish. Top cities include Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya.
Compare prices from top providers.
Transcontinental city with Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, and Bosphorus views
Fairy chimneys, cave hotels, and iconic hot air balloon rides at sunrise
Turquoise Coast gateway with Roman ruins, waterfalls, and Mediterranean beaches
Aegean resort town with castle, nightlife, and sailing culture
One of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean world
Turkey is where East meets West in the most literal sense — Istanbul straddles two continents, and the country's culture, cuisine, and history reflect millennia of cross-pollination between European and Asian civilizations. From the domes and minarets of Istanbul to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, Turkey offers experiences that are genuinely unique on the global stage.
Istanbul is one of the world's great cities. The Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar represent just the starting point of a city that has been a capital of three empires. The Bosphorus strait divides Europe from Asia, and ferry rides between the two continents are an everyday occurrence. Istanbul's food scene — from street simit and kebabs to rooftop fine dining — is extraordinary.
Cappadocia is Turkey's most surreal destination. Volcanic fairy chimneys, underground cities, cave churches with Byzantine frescoes, and the world-famous hot air balloon flights at sunrise create a landscape and experience found nowhere else on Earth. Staying in a cave hotel carved from soft rock is an essential part of the Cappadocia experience.
Turkey's Mediterranean and Aegean coasts rival Greece for beauty and dramatically undercut it on price. The Turquoise Coast from Antalya to Fethiye offers ancient Lycian ruins, pristine coves, and gulet sailing voyages. Ephesus is one of antiquity's best-preserved cities. Pamukkale's white travertine terraces and thermal pools are a natural wonder. For travelers seeking variety, value, and a bridge between cultures, Turkey is unbeatable.
Turkey spans both Europe and Asia. Istanbul's European side is geographically in Europe, while most of the country (Anatolia) is in Asia. Turkey is a candidate for EU membership and participates in many European institutions.
Major tourist areas (Istanbul, Cappadocia, the coasts) are generally safe. Check current travel advisories for border regions. Exercise normal urban precautions in Istanbul. Tourism infrastructure is well-developed.
Turkey offers exceptional value due to the weak lira. Quality hotels, meals, and experiences cost a fraction of Western European equivalents. Istanbul is slightly pricier but still very affordable by European standards.
April-June and September-November for Istanbul and Cappadocia. June-September for the coast. Istanbul is excellent year-round. Avoid the coast in July-August if you dislike crowds and extreme heat.
Many nationalities need an e-Visa, easily obtained online at evisa.gov.tr before travel. EU citizens from some countries can enter visa-free. Check requirements for your nationality before booking.
Country-by-country driving requirements, packing list, and emergency contacts — all in one PDF.
Free. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.