Bridging two continents and countless civilizations, Türkiye is a land where East meets West, and ancient meets modern - in a seamless blend of cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. Bordered by eight countries and surrounded by four seas, Türkiye's strategic location has made it a crossroads of empires, such as the Hittites, Byzantines, and the Ottomans. Today, it is a vibrant mosaic of history, tradition, and innovation.

Istanbul, with its bustling bazaars and majestic mosques, is the only city in the world straddling two continents.  The surreal rock formations of Cappadocia and the pristine beaches of the Turquoise Coast, ancient cities like Ephesus and Troy, they all whisper stories of the classical world, while modern metropolises like Ankara showcase the nation’s dynamic future. Nature-lovers can trek through the Kaçkar Mountains, soak in Pamukkale’s mineral-rich terraces, or sail along the scenic Lycian coast. Diyarbakir, famed for its monumental black basalt walls, offers a deep connection to Mesopotamian heritage and centuries of diverse traditions. Further east, the serene beauty of Van surrounds its vast lake, where the island church of Akdamar stands as a masterpiece of medieval Armenian art.

Explore Turkey’s timeless heritage by delving into the deep history and culture of its most remarkable ancient sites. At Göbekli Tepe, the world’s oldest known temple complex, towering stone pillars carved over 11,000 years ago reveal humanity’s earliest spiritual expressions. Journey to Mount Nemrut, where colossal statues of ancient kings sit atop a sacred peak, glowing majestically at sunrise and sunset. Discover Çatalhöyük, one of the first urban settlements, where tightly packed homes and vivid wall paintings unveil the beginnings of communal life. Immerse yourself in Konya, a living center of spirituality shaped by Rumi and the Whirling Dervishes, where Seljuk architecture preserves centuries of devotion.

Nestled between lush green mountains and the deep blue waters, the Black Sea Coast offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Trabzon, once a vital stop on the Silk Road, charms visitors with its Byzantine monastery of Sumela and lively harbour atmosphere. Further west, Rize invites you into the heart of Türkiye’s tea-growing region, surrounded by emerald valleys and traditional wooden villages. The peaceful city of Ordu boasts golden beaches and panoramic views from Boztepe Hill, while Samsun, the region’s largest city, combines modern life with museums and landmarks tied to Türkiye’s founding story. 

Türkiye is a country where hospitality is a way of life and where tea is always served with a smile. Gaziantep captivates visitors with its rich culinary heritage. The nation’s cuisine, influenced by centuries of cultural exchange, is a feast for the senses - including, but not limited to, meze spreads, kebabs, baklava, and Turkish delight. Whether exploring underground cities carved by early Christians, admiring Ottoman palaces, or relaxing in a traditional hammam, visitors find that Türkiye is not just a destination, but an experience that lingers long after the journey ends.

Nuggets of information:

• Istanbul was formerly known as Constantinople  and served as the capital of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires.
• Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, dating to the 15th century, is one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets with over 4,000 shops.
• Türkiye is home to two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus and The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus.
• Istanbul is the only city in the world that spans two continents, Europe and Asia, separated by the Bosphorus Strait.
• Türkiye is home to the world’s oldest known temple, Göbekli Tepe, dating back over 11,000 years—older than Stonehenge and the pyramids.
• Çatalhöyük is one of the oldest recognized human settlements in the world.
• Some of the earliest signs of writing were found in Anatolia.
• The first known university was established in Harran, in south-eastern Türkiye.
• It was one of the first countries to grant women the right to vote, beginning in the 1930s.
• The tulip, now strongly associated with the Netherlands, was originally discovered and cultivated in Türkiye and  was a cherished symbol of the Ottoman Empire.
• Gaziantep's baklava is recognized by UNESCO for its cultural significance.
• There are more ancient Greek and Roman ruins here than in Greece or Italy.
• Their coffee culture is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
• The word ''turquoise'' comes from “Turkish stone,” referring to the trade route through the country that brought the gem to Europe.
• Cats hold a special place in Turkish culture, roaming freely in many places and being lovingly cared for by the people.

Check out our video showcasing Türkiye