Where East meets West — ancient ruins, turquoise coasts and extraordinary food.
✦ Plan My Turkey TripTurkey is a country of staggering contrasts. Istanbul straddles two continents and two millennia of history. Cappadocia rises from the earth in cathedral-like formations of volcanic rock. The Aegean and Mediterranean coasts offer some of the world's most beautiful sailing waters. This is a destination that rewards every kind of traveller.
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The best time to visit Turkey is April to May or September to October. The weather is warm and dry, crowds are lighter than summer and prices are more reasonable. July and August are best for coastal resorts but very hot inland. December to February is cold in Istanbul and Cappadocia but atmospheric.
Seven days covers Istanbul and Cappadocia comfortably. Ten days lets you add the Aegean coast or Pamukkale. Two weeks gives you a full picture — Istanbul, Cappadocia, the Turquoise Coast and perhaps Ephesus. Istanbul alone deserves at least three full days.
Turkey is best known for Istanbul's extraordinary blend of European and Asian culture, the surreal rock formations of Cappadocia, the turquoise Aegean and Mediterranean coastline, ancient ruins at Ephesus and Troy, and one of the world's great food cultures — kebabs, mezze, baklava and Turkish tea.
Yes — a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia at sunrise is one of the world's great romantic experiences. Istanbul's rooftop restaurants and Bosphorus sunset cruises are exceptional for anniversaries. The Turquoise Coast offers private gulet sailing and secluded bays ideal for couples.
Turkey is excellent value. A mid-range daily budget is €60–€100 per person, covering a good hotel, restaurant meals and activities. Budget travellers can manage on €30–€50 per day. The Turkish Lira exchange rate means Western visitors get strong purchasing power.
The main tourist areas — Istanbul, the Aegean coast, Cappadocia and Antalya — are well-visited and generally safe for tourists. As with any destination, check your government's current travel advice before you go.
April to May and September to October are ideal — warm, not overwhelmingly hot, and less crowded than summer. July and August are best for beach holidays on the coast but very hot inland.
Five days covers Istanbul well. Add Cappadocia for 7 to 8 days. Two weeks lets you include the Aegean coast, Pamukkale and the Turquoise Coast for a comprehensive trip.