Turkey experiences
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Straddling two continents, Turkey weaves together the mosques and bazaars of Istanbul, the surreal rock landscapes of Cappadocia, ancient Greco-Roman cities, and a turquoise Mediterranean coastline. Layers of Byzantine, Ottoman and classical history meet warm hospitality and legendary cuisine.
Our guided tours and experiences take you inside the story, from sunrise hot-air balloon flights and Bosphorus cruises to expert-led walks through Ephesus and hammam rituals steeped in tradition.
About Turkey
Istanbul, the only city on two continents, dazzles with the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, the Grand Bazaar and the Bosphorus strait dividing Europe from Asia. In central Anatolia, Cappadocia stuns with fairy-chimney rock formations, cave churches, underground cities like Derinkuyu, and famous hot-air balloon rides over Göreme.
On the Aegean coast, the ruins of Ephesus preserve the Library of Celsus and a grand theater, while Pamukkale's white travertine terraces sit beside ancient Hierapolis. The capital Ankara, coastal Antalya and Aegean İzmir round out the map. Turkish cuisine is a highlight in itself: kebabs and mezze, pide and lahmacun, sweet baklava, and endless glasses of çay (tea) and strong Turkish coffee, often ending with a shared meal that reflects the country's generous hospitality.
What to expect on a Turkey experience
Expect knowledgeable guides who bring millennia of history to life, plus vibrant markets and unforgettable food. Popular experiences include:
- Sunrise hot-air balloon flights over Cappadocia
- Guided tours of Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace and the Grand Bazaar
- Bosphorus dinner and sightseeing cruises
- Archaeological tours of Ephesus and Pamukkale
- Turkish cooking classes and traditional hammam visits
Best time to visit
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are ideal, with pleasant temperatures for sightseeing in Istanbul and Cappadocia and warm seas on the coast. Summer (June–August) is hot, best for beach resorts along the Mediterranean and Aegean, though inland cities can be scorching. Winter (December–February) is quieter and atmospheric, with occasional snow dusting Cappadocia's rock landscapes, and lower prices citywide.
Getting around
Turkey is large, so domestic flights (Turkish Airlines, Pegasus) are the fastest way between Istanbul, Cappadocia (via Kayseri or Nevşehir), İzmir and Antalya. High-speed trains link Istanbul, Ankara and Konya. Comfortable long-distance buses serve nearly every town. In Istanbul, the tram, metro, funiculars and Bosphorus ferries make getting around easy with an Istanbulkart. In Cappadocia and along the coast, guided tours or a rental car help reach dispersed sights.
Frequently asked questions
The main tourist regions, including Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus and the coastal resorts, are generally safe and welcoming. Use normal city precautions against pickpockets in crowded areas and bazaars, and check current travel advisories for regions near the eastern and southeastern borders.
Balloon flights launch at sunrise and last about an hour in the air, with roughly 3 hours total including pickup and a celebratory toast. Flights are weather-dependent and sell out quickly, so book in advance and allow a buffer day in case of cancellation.
Many nationalities need an e-Visa, which is quick to obtain online before travel, while others enter visa-free for tourism. Always check the official Turkish e-Visa site for your passport's current requirements.
Dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered for everyone, and women should carry a scarf to cover their hair. Shoes are removed before entering. Many major mosques provide loaner coverings, and avoid visiting during prayer times.
The Turkish lira (TRY) is the currency. Cards are accepted in cities and tourist areas, but carry cash for bazaars, small eateries and rural spots. It's best to pay in lira rather than accepting on-the-spot conversion to your home currency.