Turkey
Turkey has more than its share of world-famous ruins and monuments. The ancient port city Ephesus (Efes) to the tall Byzantine dome of Aya Sofya are just a few. Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans all stopped along the old Silk Road. A journey from the Sultan's private quarters in the Topkapi Palace to the enigmatic Lycian ruins on Istanbul's Mediterranean coastline.
Destination in a Nutshell
783,000 km2
Area
84 million
Populations
Ankara
Capital
Quick Facts
Istanbul spans two continents – Europe and Asia
Vineyards are a common sight as you drive from place to place thanks to the country’s fertile soil and climate
Turks introduced tulips to Netherlands, as well as cherries and coffee to Europe
Currency Turkish Lira
Language Turkish
Time zone GMT +3
Best Time to Visit
High Season: June to August
Best for beaches, Black Sea highlands and outdoor events
Booking ahead is a must in popular destinations
Shoulder Season: April to May, September to October
Best for sightseeing, hiking and cultural events
Blissfully relaxed after school holidays end and most tourists return home
Low Season: November to March
Winter is high season in ski-resort areas
Local transportation is more limited, but the weather is relatively mild.