Turkish cuisine and architecture are good examples thereof. However, what really stands out is the genuine hospitality of Turkish people, which originates from the encounters between the different cultures influencing the country over time. It is indeed the hospitality of the Turks that guarantees the country’s popularity as a holiday destination year after year.
About Turkey
Turkish destinations are located at the northwestern, western and southern parts of the country. As distances within the country are usually extensive, an airplane is often the best option for traveling between Turkish destinations. Turkey is divided into two peninsulas: Anatolia and the Balkans, surrounded by the Black Sea, the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. The peninsulas are divided by the Bosporus strait, making the Balkans part of the European continent, while Anatolia belongs to Asia.
The most visited destination and the largest city of the country is Istanbul. The exotic city manages to charm visitors all year round. The strengths of Istanbul include its vivid history, unique architecture and the mind-blowing street cuisine inspired by the culinary heritage of neighboring continents. In what other city could you visit two continents at the same time?
Turkey has a huge number of sunny days pretty much all year round. The southwest and south of the country contain popular beach destinations, with cheap prices and guaranteed sunshine as their main advantages. The likes of Bodrum, Marmaris, Antalya and Alanya, have been popular package holiday destinations for decades.
Izmir is located in the western part of the country, on the shores of the Aegean Sea. Izmir is an archaeologically interesting site, and the stunning beaches of Cesme are just an hour’s drive away.
Turkey isn’t a famous ski destination yet, but the country offers great ski resorts thanks to its mountains. The best-known ski resorts are Palandöken in the east and Erciyes in the middle of Turkey.
| Population | 83.2 million |
| Capital | Ankara |
| Language | Turkish |
| EU country | No |
| Schengen country | No |
| Plug type | C (European model) |
| Currency | Turkish lira |
Since various parts of Turkey are quite different from each other, the country is suitable for visiting at different times of the year.
Summer, from April to October, is the perfect time for a beach holiday in the beach destinations, whereas the eastern parts of the country are at their best during the winter months.
In the southern parts of Turkey, mid-summers are very hot, but winters are mild. It rains on average only 30 days a year in the south.
The northeastern and eastern parts of the country, on the other hand, are cold and snowy. Summers are warm in these areas.
The price level in Turkey is below the European average. Things relevant to traveling, such as accommodation and restaurants, were according to a study commissioned by Eurostat in 2018, among the cheapest in Europe.
Within the country, both Istanbul and the capital Ankara are clearly more expensive than other parts of the country.
Clothing prices in Turkey are clearly the cheapest in Europe, and you can make excellent finds in the country. Make sure you leave extra space in your suitcase.
Turkey is generally a safe country to travel, but its south-eastern border with Syria is currently unstable due to the state of war in Syria.
Taxis may be overpriced in Istanbul and other popular tourist areas. Hence, the price should be agreed in advance.
Destination guides in Turkey
Located on the Turkish Riviera, Alanya is a favorite destination for northern European package travelers. Beautiful beaches, guaranteed sunshine and cheap prices ensure its popularity year after year.
Read more: Alanya
The capital of southern Turkey, Antalya, is growing in popularity year by year. In this growing metropolis, interesting history and vibrant local culture merge with a leisurely beach holiday.
Read more: Antalya