Discover Tailor-Made Türkiye (Turkey) Vacations

Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are ideal for sightseeing, with pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and blooming landscapes. It’s the perfect time to comfortably explore Istanbul’s historic sites, wander through Ephesus, or hike the valleys of Cappadocia without the summer heat.

Summer (July and August) is hot and sunny, especially in inland areas, but it’s also the best season to visit the Turkish Riviera. Coastal towns like Bodrum, Kaş, and Antalya come alive with beachgoers, sailing trips, and vibrant nightlife. But keep in mind, cities can be busy and sweltering during this time.

Winter (November to March) is the quietest season, ideal for travellers who enjoy a more leisurely pace. While coastal areas can be rainy and cool, places like Cappadocia transform into a snowy wonderland, offering a magical ballooning experience over white-dusted fairy chimneys.

Consult our guide to the Best Time to Visit and let us help you choose the perfect season for your Türkiye experience.

Its unique position between East and West has shaped a civilization that honours tradition while embracing modern life. You’ll see this unique mash-up of cultures in everything from the architecture of Istanbul’s mosques and palaces to the music, art, and daily rituals that make Turkish life so vibrant.

Traditional experiences add even more depth to your vacation in Türkiye. Step into a hammam (Turkish bath) for a centuries-old wellness ritual of steam, scrub, and relaxation. For a spiritual and cultural experience, witnessing a whirling dervish ceremony, which is a meditative dance rooted in Sufi mysticism, is both mesmerizing and moving.

Whether you’re exploring ancient bazaars, enjoying home-cooked meals, or taking part in age-old customs, Turkish culture is warm, welcoming, and deeply soulful. It invites you to slow down, savour each moment, and connect with the past, the present, and the people.

They’re events and a time to gather, share, and celebrate. You’ll find a delicious variety of kebabs, fresh meze plates, and rich, flaky baklava, often paired with a glass of strong, sweet Turkish tea. Coffee lovers should try traditional Turkish coffee. Served in small cups, it is strong and delicious.

Don’t miss regional specialties like Iskender kebab from Bursa, manti (Turkish dumplings) from Central Anatolia, or lahmacun, a thin, crispy flatbread topped with spiced minced meat. Along the coast, enjoy fresh grilled fish, while inland regions offer rich, slow-cooked dishes like Testi kebab, cooked in a sealed clay pot.

“Çiya Sofrası is a highly regarded hidden gem that locals love,” Destination Specialist Channa Jayasinghe says of her favourite Istanbul restaurant. “It focuses on Anatolian cuisine, specifically dishes rarely found in other restaurants, prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is known for its authentic flavours, traditional recipes, and commitment to preserving culinary heritage.

Türkiye’s official currency is the Turkish lira (TRY). While credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, it’s wise to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller towns or rural regions.

The official language is Turkish, but you’ll find English is commonly spoken in hotels, restaurants, and shops in popular destinations like Istanbul, Cappadocia, and coastal areas.

To enter Türkiye, your passport must be valid for at least six months. Many travellers, including citizens of the U.S., Canada, and Australia, need an e-visa, which is easy to obtain online before you travel.

When visiting mosques or religious sites, it’s important to dress respectfully. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Women may need to wear a headscarf.

In markets and bazaars, bargaining is expected. Just have fun with it. Public transport is reliable and affordable in cities like Istanbul. 

For more practical insights into visiting Türkiye, consult our guide to Things to Know Before You Go.