Hotels in Turkey

Turkey: Where Two Continents Meet

Turkey is one of the world's most geographically and culturally diverse destinations, straddling Europe and Asia across a landmass that has been shaped by thousands of years of civilization. From the domed skyline of Istanbul to the fairy-tale rock formations of Cappadocia, from the turquoise coastline of the Turkish Riviera to the ancient ruins scattered across the Aegean shore, Turkey offers travelers an extraordinary range of experiences within a single country.

Istanbul and the Major Cities

Istanbul is Turkey's largest city and its cultural heartbeat, home to iconic landmarks including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar — one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets. The city sits across the Bosphorus Strait, giving it a genuinely unique position as a metropolis spanning two continents. Visitors can explore the historic Sultanahmet district, take a ferry between the European and Asian sides, or browse the vibrant neighborhoods of Beyoglu and Kadikoy.

Ankara, Turkey's capital, offers a different perspective, with the impressive Ataturk Mausoleum (Anitkabir) and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations among its key attractions. Izmir, Turkey's third-largest city on the Aegean coast, is known for its relaxed waterfront promenade and proximity to the ancient city of Ephesus. Kusadasi, a busy port town nearby, serves as a popular gateway for cruise passengers exploring the region.

The Turkish Riviera and Coastal Towns

The Turkish Riviera — also known as the Turquoise Coast — stretches along Turkey's southwestern and southern Mediterranean shoreline and encompasses some of the country's most visited resort destinations. Antalya is the main hub of this region, a modern city with a well-preserved Roman-era old quarter (Kaleici) and direct access to long sandy beaches.

Bodrum, on the Aegean coast, combines a lively marina atmosphere with historical depth — the ancient Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was located here. Marmaris is a popular sailing base, while Fethiye is the jumping-off point for the famous Blue Lagoon at Oludeniz and multi-day gulet (traditional wooden boat) cruises along the coast. Kemer, Alanya, Side, and Belek round out the Riviera offering, each with its own character — Belek in particular is well established as a golf destination, with numerous championship courses.

Cappadocia: A Landscape Unlike Any Other

Located in central Anatolia, Cappadocia is a region defined by its surreal volcanic landscape of cone-shaped rock formations known as "fairy chimneys," ancient underground cities, and cave dwellings carved directly into the soft tufa rock. The area around Goreme is the most visited, with open-air museums, hiking trails through rose-colored valleys, and the opportunity to take a hot-air balloon ride at dawn for aerial views across the terrain. Cappadocia was also an important early Christian refuge, and many of its cave churches contain well-preserved Byzantine frescoes.

Practical Tips for Visiting Turkey

• Visa requirements: Many nationalities can obtain an e-Visa online before travel. Always check the official Turkish e-Visa portal for current requirements.
• Currency: The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available in cities and resort areas.
• Getting around: Domestic flights connect major cities efficiently. Intercity buses are affordable and comfortable. Car rental is a practical option for exploring coastal areas and Cappadocia.
• Best time to visit: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer mild temperatures across most of the country. Summer is peak season on the coast but can be very hot inland.
• Language: Turkish is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
• Food and drink: Turkish cuisine is diverse and regionally varied. Do not miss fresh seafood on the coast, slow-cooked mezes, and the famous Turkish breakfast spread.
• Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting mosques and religious sites. Remove shoes before entering a mosque.