Turkey's charm and mysteries are far reaching, partly thanks to its diverse nature. Its multiple neighbours provide hints about its make-up. Influences from Asia, Europe and Africa have fashioned Turkey into the intriguing cultural centre it is today. The country's scenery and landscapes are just as varied, with mountains, valleys and stretching coastlines all waiting to be explored. Surrounded by three seas – the Black Sea to the north, the Aegean to the west and the Mediterranean to the south – there's plenty of room for beautiful unspoilt beaches where sun-seekers can stretch out and soak up the glorious heat. Turkey's bustling and modern capital, Ankara, has come along way since being a centre for the ancient Anatolian civilisations, but its history is far from lost. The past is still very much alive in the city's many palaces, mosques, museums and ancient excavations and this is in fact the case right across the country. Take a trip to the mighty Acropolis, the ruins at Ephesus or the legendary Troy for a taste of the ancient, or book to stay at one of the many well-established hotels in Istanbul and cruise along the Bosphorus Strait to fully appreciate the historical wonders the city has on offer. Amid the culture and history, there's plenty of room to indulge in other passions during Turkish break. You can go rafting near Antalya, hiking in Dalaman or partying along the Bodrum Peninsula. Shop to your heart's content in the country's beautiful cities and feast on mouth-watering Turkish cuisine where east meets west in an explosion of flavour.
Whatever you're searching for from your holiday this year, our superior selection of Turkey hotels will help you find it.
Fact file
Language: Turkish
Capital: Ankara
Currency: Turkish Lira
Religion: Muslim
Time difference: GMT +2 hours
Cultural advice: Turkey's population is predominately Muslim so take appropriate clothing with you when you visit
Things to do in Turkey
Soak up the sights of Istanbul with a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait
The streets of Istanbul are packed full of historical and modern day treasures. The Blue Mosque, the palaces of Topkapi, Dolmabahce and Beylerbeyi, the Basilica Cistern and the Galata Tower are just some of the treats on offer. Gliding in a boat along the Bosphorus Strait will give you a chance to marvel at the city's stunning features – and perhaps even get some dolphin spotting in as well.
Marvel at the Acropolis and Asclepeion of Pergamum
These magnificent ruins are the remnants of the once great Anatolian Kingdom. The Acropolis itself houses sights such as the Altar of Zeus, the temples of Athena, Dionysos and Trojan, and the Red Basilica. Meanwhile, the nearby Asclepeion – named after the God of healing – was an important medical centre.
Take in the stunning scenery of Cappadocia
This fascinating region is home to a valley of unique chimney rock formations and an incredible network of underground cities. These cities, created by prehistoric humans in the volcanic rock, became the hiding place for early Christians escaping persecution by the Roman Empire.
Explore the ancient legend of Troy and the ruins at Ephesus
The site of the legendary city of Troy, complete with a recreation of the famous Trojan horse, can be found on Turkey's west coast. Slightly further north is the city of Ephesus, best known as the location of the Temple of Artemis – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The temple itself is largely unexcavated, but visitors can still see the spectacular remains of buildings such as the Library of Celsius, the Temples of Hadrian and Domitian, and the Great Theatre. If ancient attractions are your real passion then why not consider our hotels in Cairo and a visit to the Great Pyramid of Giza – the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World.
Visit a First World War battleground with a trip to Gall