Published 28th May. 2025
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Turkey remains one of our favourite European destinations with its eclectic mix of culture, history, scenery and incredible hospitality. Step back in time in Ephesus, shop 'til you drop in Istanbul or marvel at hot air balloons in Cappadocia. Whether you want to unwind in a hammam or soak up the sun on the Aegean Coast, a holiday to Turkey has it all and we have the insider recommendations. Still wondering why visit Turkey? Read on for our top ten reasons...
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First up on our list of reasons to visit Turkey is its ancient ruins. Sitting at the crossroads between Asia and Europe, Turkey has been occupied by everyone from the Greeks and Romans to the Byzantines and Ottomans; its colonial history reads like a who's who of big-Empire hitters. Dig deeper into the country’s past on a private visit to the ancient Greek city of Ephesus. Famed for its Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, you can wander through the temple’s remains, visit the Terrace Houses and marvel at its 25,000-seat theatre.
Turkey’s southern coast is peppered with historic ruins, and the ancient site of Perge is one of the highlights. Stroll through the large Roman Gate, admire the well-preserved baths and explore the agora (market). Then visit the grand Aspendos theatre, before heading to the city of Side, home to the Temple of Apollo and the Roman Theatre of Side.
Image by Kybele/stock.adobe.com
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If you’re in the ‘why visit Turkey?’ camp, you’re sure to be swayed by the food. Blending Middle Eastern, Asian and European influences, there is a wonderful array of dishes. Expect fresh mezze platters, delicious kebabs (forget the Doner kebabs from your local takeaway), flavour-packed shawarmas, and comforting stews. And be sure to try the traditional baklava dessert. Dating back to the Ottoman Empire, this sweet treat lives up to its hype.
Each region boasts different signature dishes: sample freshly caught seafood along the Aegean Coast, kebabs aplenty in the country's centre and exotic flavours in Istanbul. For a deep dive into the country’s culinary culture, set out on a private gourmet tour in Istanbul from Besiktas (the city’s European side) to Uskudar (the city’s Asian side). Tuck into traditional street food in Besiktas, think grilled kofte (meatballs) and sucuk (spicy garlic sausage) before hopping on a boat to Uskudar, where fresh seafood and local markets await.
Image by Claire Priou
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Spanning two continents, we couldn't miss Istanbul from our roundup of reasons to visit Turkey. Kick off your sightseeing at the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, in the heart of the Sultanahmet district. Originally a Greek Orthodox Church and later an Ottoman imperial mosque, it’s one of the city’s most famous sites, perfectly encapsulating the city’s East-meets-West identity. Also in the historic centre is the regal Topkapi Palace and the famed Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), aptly nicknamed for the striking blue tiles that line its interior.
If you’re after some retail therapy, the Grand Bazaar has your name written all over it. Located in Istanbul’s Old City, it’s a labyrinth of 4,000 stalls selling everything from jewellery and antiques to leatherwear and spices. With its rich history, bustling markets and cultural experiences, our Europe specialist, Izzy, recommends spending at least four nights in Istanbul on your trip to Turkey.
Image by Jackie Cole
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Ready to swap city sights for natural wonders? Head to the lunar-like landscape of Cappadocia, one of our favourite rural regions in Turkey. Home to ancient underground cities carved out of volcanic rock and hundreds of hot air balloons soaring above the landscape, it’s a photographer’s dream. Be sure to visit the famed 'fairy chimneys' scattered across Goreme National Park.
In Pigeon Valley, known locally as Guvercinlik Vadisi, some of these natural rock pillars have pigeon houses hollowed out of the stone from the days when the birds were used to deliver messages. Lying between Uchisar and Goreme, the valley offers plenty of picturesque hiking trails. For a change of scenery, visit Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Denizli, where mineral-rich thermal pools await.
Image by Atilla Alp Bolukbasi/Getty Images/iStockphoto
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Hammams (Turkish baths) are next on our list of reasons to visit Turkey. Key to the country’s culture, visiting a bathhouse remains a vital tradition before weddings and after the birth of a child. These baths feature a series of connected rooms, often including a caldarium (warm room), a hararet (hot room) and a sogukluk (cool room) – the perfect spot to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
For incredible architecture, head to the Kilic Ali Pasa Hamam in Karakoy (built by Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan between 1578 and 1580) or visit the 16th-century Zeyrek Cinili Hamam in the historically rich Zeyrek district.
Image by Vovik Mar/Getty Images/iStockphoto
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The Aegean Coast is, in our humble opinion, one of the best coastlines in Europe. To make the most of it, we'd recommend a boat trip. Hop aboard a gulet (traditional Turkish sailing ship) from the port of Cesme and explore stunning beaches and secluded coves, with stops along the way to snorkel in the pristine waters that hug the coast.
Back on dry land, stretch your legs on a walk along the Lycian Way. This 300-mile footpath links the cities of Fethiye and Antalya, offering postcard-perfect sea views. En route, be sure to visit the Lycian tombs carved into the cliff faces. These ancient tombs provide an insight into the region's long and fascinating history.
Image by Ludovic Jacome (ljacome@vdm.com) / Emilie de Beaumont (edebeaumont@vdm.com)
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Still wondering why go to Turkey? For low-season travel. While a trip between June and August is ideal for beach days, the cooler months also have plenty to offer. Istanbul, in particular, is a great place to visit year-round. December’s chilly temperatures mean fewer visitors, allowing you to explore museums like Topkapi Palace, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts and the Pera Museum without the crowds. January brings temperatures that hover around eight degrees Celsius, but it’s worth braving the cold for Istanbul’s dazzling New Year’s Eve fireworks display.
Similarly, Cappadocia is beautiful year-round, but the shoulder seasons of late spring (April to May) and early autumn (September to October) are ideal for avoiding the summer crowds and escaping the heat.
Image by Ensar/Pexels
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Famed for their warm hospitality, Turkish people are a friendly bunch. With a culture that celebrates good service, you’ll likely be invited for tea by locals on more than one occasion. Beyond just a hot drink, cay (tea) is integral to socialising in Turkey. Black tea is often the go-to, served hot in pear-shaped glasses with sugar cubes. For an elevated afternoon tea experience, head to Istanbul’s iconic Pera Palace, where the Kubbeli Lounge boasts vaulted ceilings, oversized chandeliers and live piano music.
Image by Image by Beyzaa Yurtkuran/Pexels
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Keen for some vitamin sea? Turkey’s beaches have you covered. Head to the country’s southwest Aegean Coast, where some of the best beaches in Bodrum await. For 1.2 miles of powdery white sand, visit Karaincir Beach, also known as ‘Black Fig’, or if water sports and bustling bars are more up your street, Gumbet Beach is the place for you. Or, make your way to Izmir (Turkey’s third-largest city), where Ilica Beach and Pirlanta Beach offer soft sands, shallow waters and lush green surroundings.
Image by Lavinia Cernau
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Last but by no means least, the festivals are reason enough to plan a holiday to Turkey. The Istanbul Tulip Festival takes place every April and sees millions of tulips spring up in parks across the city. Head to Emirgan Park, the heart of the festival, for sweeping views of the Bosphorus, along with traditional craft demonstrations and live music.
Speaking of spring, the ancient festival of Hidirellez takes place in early May and celebrates the season’s arrival. Rooted in Turkish traditions, locals celebrate with folk music, dancing and tasty dishes. And if you’re planning your trip between June and August, don’t miss the Gumusluk Classical Music Festival and the Bodrum Ballet Festival, which showcase incredible performances in outdoor venues.
Image by Imad Alassiry/Unsplash
Written by Amy Larsen | Header image by Gabrielle Chavant
Boasting incredible cuisine, stunning scenery and a rich history, Turkey can often feel overwhelming – but that’s where our talented team steps in. We tailor itineraries to your taste and help you get under the skin of the country, from the sunken city of Kekova to lesser-known coastal spots around Fethiye. Foodies can enjoy our gourmet walking tour of Istanbul, while budding historians can marvel at the archaeological site of Ephesus, both accompanied by our personable guides. When it’s time to rest, our hand-picked properties range from historic to contemporary, oozing comfort and views so you can kick back in style.
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