Turkey Tourism

At the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Türkiye is a fascinating country. Alternately ruled by Greeks, Persians, and Romans during the Classical Era, present-day Turkey was once the capital of the Byzantine Empire.

Turkish nomads from Central Asia settled in Turkey, gradually conquering all of the minor lands of Asia in the 11th century. First, the Seljuks, then the Ottoman Turks, came to power, exerting influence over a wide area of ​​the eastern Mediterranean world and bringing Islam to southeastern Europe. In 1918, after the fall of the Ottoman Empire, Turkey transformed into the vibrant and modernized secular state that you see today.

There are endless reasons to visit Turkey. Stunning landscapes, fascinating history, intricate architecture, lovely people, and some of the best shopping in Europe, just to name a few.

It would be a no-go to list all the things that will get you hooked on Turkey. Here are a few reasons why your next vacation should be in Turkey.

Delicious Food

Each region of Turkey has its own food culture with different ingredients and recipes. Therefore, Turkish cuisine is not only delicious kebabs and baklava. Including fresh seafood and mezze, world desserts, huge breakfast spreads, traditional Ottoman dishes, vegetable dishes, and more.

Beautiful sandy beaches

Bodrum, Antalya, Izmir, and Fethiye have some of the most beautiful beaches in  Turkey which are secluded bays offering exciting beach parties. One of the best ways to explore Turkey's many beaches and the Mediterranean or Aegean coast is on a Blue Cruise.

Turkish bath

The world-famous hammam experience has become synonymous with Turkey and it is a tourist favorite. After all, being scrubbed, washed, and massaged in a cloud of soap suds is a wonderful way to relax.

Archaeological sites

As a witness to many empires and civilizations, Turkey has an astonishing number of archaeological sites throughout the country. From the palaces and mosques of Istanbul to the ruins of Ephesus and the underground cities of Cappadocia, the country is a paradise for archeology and history buffs.

Excellent museums

Turkey also has many excellent museums that actively preserve artifacts from many archaeological sites across the country. From the world's largest mosaic museum (Gaziantep's Zeugma) to Istanbul's Ottoman Palace Museum, there is so much to explore.

Great shopping

With such great cuisine, it's no wonder Turkey has so many grocery shopping opportunities, from open-air markets to bazaars. Locals shop for fresh produce at the many nearby markets, while tourists shop at the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar.

Natural wonders

Besides housing big cities like Ankara, Istanbul and Izmir, Turkey is the home to many natural paradises. From skiing in the Uludag Mountains to hiking in Rize Province, the country has a wealthy nature. Don't forget Pamukkale's white travertine terraces.

Impressive architecture

Turkish architecture is quite impressive. Right from historic churches to stone houses that were built by the former Anatolian Empire, Turkey has many architectural beauties. From Istanbul to Mardin and beyond, you're sure to find a building that will change your aesthetic.

The coast of Turkey has a mild Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and rainy winters. The weather turned more severe in the eastern highlands. Most parts of Turkey receive an average of 20 to 25 inches (508 to 645 mm) of rainfall per year.

The hottest temperature ever recorded in Turkey was 119.8°F (48.8°C) in Cizre. The coldest recorded temperature was -50°F (-45.6°C) in Agri.

The best time to visit Turkey is during the months of April, May, September, and October, when the climate is warm and suitable for exploring the famous architectural sites of the country. However, Turkey is considered a year-round travel destination, and the best time to visit is based on the places you want to visit and the activities you want to do. April and May (spring season) are the best months for outdoor activities such as trekking and other activities such as biking and exploring archaeological sites. June to September is usually hot and dry, with particularly warm temperatures, making it an ideal destination for island and beach lovers alike.

By the end of October, the weather will start to get cooler. From November, it starts to get colder until March, with temperatures dropping below 0°C, especially in the interior of Cappadocia. However, winter is the best time to visit this place, as there is less bustle at this time of year.

The Aegean and Mediterranean coasts of Turkey belong to the Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers.

Turkey is a country of unique beauty, with a mix of ancient ruins, amazing beaches, and vibrant cities. From the majestic Hagia Sophia to the stunning Blue Mosque, there are plenty of sights to explore in Turkey. Here is a list of the best places to visit in Turkey for an unforgettable vacation.

• Kabak Bay
• Butterfly Valley
• Patara
• Princes’ Island
• Cappadocia
• Hagia Sophia Museum
• Mount Nemrut
• The City Of Ephesus
• Grand Bazaar
• The Egyptian Bazaar
• Ottomania
• Sahaflar Carsisi
• Istanbul
• Marmaris
• Port Of Istanbul
• Eminonu
• Izmir
• Topkapı Palace
• Ani
• Pamukkale
• Selimiye Mosque
• Erzurum
• Sumela Monastery
• Aladağlar National Park
• Ankara
• Akdamar Island
• Çanakkale
• Avşa Island
• Pigeon Valley
• Fethiye
• Anıtkabir
• Mardin
• Bozcaada Island
• Konya
• Zeugma Mosaic Museum
• Gaziantep
• Pergamum
• Trabzon
• Dilek Peninsula
• Basilica Cistern
• Mersin
• 7 Mehmet Restaurant
• Cleopatra Pools
• Ladies’ Beach
• Bursa
• Agora Open Air Museum
• Old Silk Market
• Miniatürk
• Galata Tower
• Kusadasi Castle
• Dilek National Park
• Temple of Artemis
• Izmir Archaeological Museum
• Arkas Art Center
• İzmir Atatürk Museum
• Izmir Natural Life Park
• Oylat Cave
• Synagogue Street
• Duden Waterfalls
• Gulhane Park
• Dolmabahce Palace
• Suleymaniye Mosque
• Blue Mosque
• Antalya Aquarium
• Kursunlu Waterfalls
• Hadrian’s Gate
• SaatKulesi/ Konak Square
• Konyaalti Beach
• Antalya Muzesi
• Harbour District
• House Of The Virgin Mary
• Ilica Public Beach
• Rumeli Fortress
• Rüstem Pasha Mosque
• Tombs Of Osman
• Nusretiye Clock Tower
• Mermerli Beach
• Lara Beach

By Air

Travel by air is the fastest means of transport to reach Turkey. There are direct flights to many Turkish destinations from all major capitals and cities in the world. Many international airlines offer regular flights to Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Antalya, and Dalaman airports.

By Sea

Passenger ferry:

In addition to numerous cruises in the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas, several foreign shipping companies offer regular routes from the Greek islands, Ukraine and Russia to the ports of Trabzon, Samsun, Istanbul, Bodrum, Marmaris, Antalya, Alanya, and Iskenderun.

Car ferry:

There used to be car ferries for people who wanted to bring their cars from Italy (Venice, Ancona, Trieste) to Cesme and Istanbul, but not anymore. Well, if you want to go to Turkey by car from Europe, then first you need to go by ferry to Greece and its islands, and then to Turkey. 

By Road

By Bus: 

There are regular bus services between Turkey and Austria, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, Switzerland, Bulgaria, and Greece; as well as between Iraq, Iran, Georgia, and Azerbaijan. Some of them operate only during the summer or on special days, but others operate all year. You can also go to Turkey in your private car. 

By Rail: 

Trains to Istanbul run from and through some of the main European cities, with connections in Greece. You also have trains to Iran, with connections.

Foreigners who want to visit Turkey should learn about our country's visa regime.

A Turkish Tourist Visa is a visa for those who are going to Turkey for tourism purposes. This visa allows travelers to stay for a specified period of time for tourism purposes such as vacations, sightseeing, and visiting friends and family. 

You can apply for a Turkish visa online through the official website if you apply for an electronic visa or by visiting the Turkish Embassy or Consulate General in your country. Applying for an e-Visa is a hassle-free process if you have all the required documents.

However, the Turkish visa application process may vary from country to country. You may need to submit your application to an external visa processing center. Always check with your local travel agent or consulate. 

A tourist visa can be applied for in two forms, depending on the nationality.

• e-Visa for Tourist Purposes
• Turkey Sticker visa for tourists

Note: If you are eligible for an electronic visa, you do not need to apply for a Turkey sticker visa.