About Turkey

Turkey is a unique country that bridges two continents—Europe and Asia—offering an extraordinary blend of cultures, landscapes, and histories. Known for its warm hospitality, rich traditions, and strategic location, Turkey has become a major destination for global travelers seeking diverse experiences in one unforgettable journey.

Geographically, Turkey is bordered by eight countries and is surrounded by three different seas: the Aegean, Mediterranean, and Black Sea. While the majority of Turkey lies in Asia, a small portion in the northwest, known as Thrace, is part of Europe. The nation’s distinctive location makes it a melting pot of civilizations and ideas, where East meets West in harmony.

The capital city of Turkey is Ankara, the administrative and political center, but the country’s largest and most famous city is Istanbul. Once known as Byzantium and later Constantinople, Istanbul was the capital of three major empires—Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. Today, it stands as a vibrant, cosmopolitan city where ancient landmarks stand beside modern skyscrapers. With its breathtaking skyline, rich cultural life, and deep historical roots, Istanbul continues to be the beating heart of Turkey.

Turkey is home to around 87 million people, with the majority living in urban areas. Turkish is the official language, and Islam is the predominant religion, though the country has a strong secular foundation. The culture is an intricate blend of traditional values and modern lifestyles, visible in everything from daily routines to festivals, cuisine, and music.

The historical richness of Turkey is unmatched. From the ruins of ancient Troy and Ephesus to the remarkable cave dwellings of Cappadocia and the healing terraces of Pamukkale, the country boasts more than 20 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These landmarks reflect Turkey’s long and complex past, spanning Hittite, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman civilizations.

Nature lovers will also find plenty to admire. Turkey’s diverse geography includes stunning beaches along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts, towering mountain ranges like the Taurus and Kaçkar, lush forests, salt lakes, and even dormant volcanoes. Adventure seekers can hike, ski, raft, or paraglide, while those looking to relax can enjoy pristine bays and thermal spas.

One of Turkey’s most beloved aspects is its cuisine. Rich, flavorful, and regionally varied, Turkish food is a reflection of the country’s heritage. Dishes such as kebabs, meze, dolma, gözleme, and a wide variety of desserts like baklava and künefe are just a taste of what Turkish kitchens have to offer. Tea (çay) and Turkish coffee are staples of daily life, often accompanied by conversation and hospitality.

Getting around Turkey is convenient thanks to its well-developed infrastructure. Major cities are connected by modern highways, a growing high-speed train network, and an extensive domestic flight system. Public transportation in urban centers includes buses, trams, metros, and ferries, while long-distance travel by bus is both affordable and efficient.

Turkey enjoys a variety of climates due to its vast territory. Coastal regions have a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, while central Anatolia experiences a more continental climate with cold, snowy winters and dry summers. Spring and autumn are considered the best times to visit, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

In recent years, Turkey has also gained popularity in fields like medical tourism, business travel, and digital nomadism. Its mix of affordability, modern facilities, and rich lifestyle options attracts a growing number of international visitors year-round.

Whether you are wandering through the ancient streets of Istanbul, floating in a hot air balloon above Cappadocia, sunbathing in Antalya, or exploring the highlands of the Black Sea, Turkey promises diverse and memorable experiences. With its blend of tradition and modernity, natural beauty, and warm people, Turkey is not just a destination—it’s a world of its own.

This is your essential guide about Turkey, a country that truly has it all—history, culture, adventure, and endless inspiration.