Turkey offers an impressive combination of history, culture, coastline, food and city experiences. Few destinations make it so easy to combine an atmospheric city break with a relaxing coastal escape.
Why Visit Turkey?
- Historic cities and famous landmarks
- Beautiful Mediterranean coastline
- Excellent Turkish cuisine
- Markets and traditional neighbourhoods
- Wide variety of city and resort experiences
Best Places to Visit in Turkey
Istanbul
Istanbul is a fascinating city where historic landmarks, markets, waterfront views and modern neighbourhoods come together.
Antalya
Antalya combines Mediterranean scenery with historic areas, beaches and a wide range of excursions and activities.
Things to Do in Istanbul
- Visit Hagia Sophia.
- Explore the Blue Mosque area.
- Browse the Grand Bazaar.
- Take a Bosphorus cruise.
- Explore Istanbul’s historic neighbourhoods.
- Consider an excursion to the Princes’ Islands.
Things to Do in Antalya
- Explore Antalya’s Old Town.
- Visit the Duden Waterfalls.
- Enjoy a boat experience.
- Take a guided city tour.
- Try adventure activities and excursions.
Turkish Food to Try
- Kebabs
- Meze
- Pide
- Baklava
- Turkish tea
When Is the Best Time to Visit Turkey?
The ideal time depends on where you are travelling. Istanbul offers year-round city-break possibilities, while Antalya is particularly appealing when you want its Mediterranean setting and outdoor activities.
Istanbul or Antalya?
Choose Istanbul if history, architecture, shopping and city exploration are your priorities. Choose Antalya if you want coastline, relaxation, sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Planning Your Turkey Holiday
Decide whether you want a city break, a coastal escape or a mixture of both. Holiday Times Travel currently offers Istanbul and Antalya packages with accommodation, flights and selected experiences.
Turkey Travel Tips
- Allow enough time for major Istanbul attractions.
- Wear comfortable shoes when exploring historic areas.
- Check seasonal weather before outdoor excursions.
- Try local restaurants rather than relying only on international chains.
Start Planning Your Turkey Escape
Whether you are drawn to Istanbul’s history or Antalya’s Mediterranean atmosphere, Turkey offers plenty of ways to create an unforgettable holiday.