Turkey holidays: our travel guide
Turkey is far more than all inclusive: one of the world's great cities in Istanbul, ancient ruins all along the coast, balloons over Cappadocia and a sea that stays warm from May to October.
Cappadocia
The sunrise balloon flights are Turkey's best-known experience. Photo: Amelia Austin / Unsplash
Why go to Turkey?
Turkey is one of the most visited countries in the world and has long been a favourite for sun holidays from the UK. The south coast around Antalya has long beaches and a season that runs well into autumn.
But there is much more than the beach. Istanbul is a city with 2,000 years of history and a world-class food scene. Along the Aegean are ancient cities such as Ephesus, and inland lies Cappadocia, with rock formations, cave dwellings and balloons at sunrise.
Turkey sits between Europe and Asia. Below you will find our city guides.
Istanbul
Photo: Engin Yapici / Unsplash
Cities and places in Turkey
Istanbul
The city on two continents, with Hagia Sophia, the bazaars and the Bosphorus ferries. Read our Istanbul guide.
Antalya and the riviera
The old town of Kaleiçi, long beaches and the resorts of Belek, Side and Alanya. Read our Antalya guide.
Cappadocia
A landscape of rock formations, cave houses and underground cities in the heart of the country. The sunrise balloon flights are the main reason people come.
The Aegean coast
Bodrum, with its white houses and harbour, and the ancient cities of Ephesus and Pergamon. Pamukkale, with its white travertine terraces, lies further inland.
Antalya
Photo: Erik Karits / Unsplash
Things to do in Turkey
Take the ferry across the Bosphorus and eat fish in Kadıköy.
Fly in a hot-air balloon over Cappadocia at sunrise.
Walk the ruins of Ephesus early in the morning.
Swim in the warm sea around Antalya well into autumn.
Order a Turkish breakfast, with olives, cheese, eggs, honey and tea.
Where to stay in Turkey
Istanbul suits a city break, Antalya and the riviera a sun holiday, and Cappadocia two nights in a cave hotel. Each city guide has its own hotel picks. The links to the hotels are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Four Seasons at the Bosphorus, Istanbul
Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
When is the best time to visit Turkey?
The coast has a season from April to November, and May, June, September and October are often best. Istanbul is loveliest in spring and autumn. Cappadocia can be cold in winter, but snow on the rock formations is a sight of its own. Check the current entry rules for Turkey before you travel. Looking for autumn sun? See where is hot in October.
Sleep inside the rock in Cappadocia
In Cappadocia you can sleep in rooms carved out of volcanic rock and watch the balloons rise from your terrace. We have picked three in our guide to Cappadocia cave hotels.
Frequently asked questions about Turkey
Where should I go in Turkey?
Istanbul is best for city life and history, Antalya and the riviera for sun and beaches, and Cappadocia for scenery and balloon flights. Many combine Istanbul with a few days on the coast.
When is the best time to go to Turkey?
May, June, September and October bring warm weather without the fiercest summer heat. The south coast has a season from April to November.
What currency does Turkey use?
Turkey uses the Turkish lira. Cards are widely accepted in cities and hotels, but it helps to carry some cash for markets and small shops.
Is Turkey good for families?
Yes. The coast has plenty of family hotels with pools and shallow beaches, and the flight from the UK is not long.
What is Cappadocia famous for?
Rock formations, cave houses, underground cities and sunrise balloon flights. Many stay in a cave hotel to get the full experience.