Turkey

Turkey Holidays Where East Meets West in a Dazzling Adventure

Step into a land where continents collide, ancient empires whisper tales, and turquoise coastlines beckon – Turkey is ready to amaze you!

Turkey, a vibrant nation straddling the crossroads of Europe and Asia, offers an intoxicating blend of rich history, stunning natural beauty, and warm, welcoming culture. Imagine wandering through the majestic Hagia Sophia and bustling Grand Bazaar in iconic Istanbul one day, and the next, lazing on a sun-drenched Mediterranean beach or sailing the turquoise waters on a traditional gulet. From the remnants of Roman and Ottoman grandeur to the lively resorts of the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, Turkey is a treasure trove for history buffs, beach lovers, families, and anyone seeking a holiday packed with flavour and discovery. Get ready with Jamie Wake Travel to explore a country where every corner tells a story.

Istanbul is the only city in the world that straddles two continents: Europe and Asia.

Santa Claus (St. Nicholas) was born in Patara, a town in ancient Lycia on Turkey's Mediterranean coast.

Tulips were originally cultivated in the Ottoman Empire and were introduced to Europe from Turkey, not Holland!

Turkey is home to two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (Bodrum) and the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus.

Turkish Delight (Lokum) has been produced in Turkey for centuries and is a beloved sweet treat.

The world's oldest known human settlement, Göbeklitepe, dating back around 12,000 years, is located in southeastern Turkey.

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Bridging Worlds Getting to Turkey From the UK

Your Turkish adventure is closer than you think, with excellent flight connections from across the UK:


  • To Istanbul (IST & SAW): As a major global hub, Istanbul is well-serviced with direct flights from London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW), Manchester (MAN), Birmingham (BHX), and Edinburgh (EDI) with airlines like Turkish Airlines and British Airways. Pegasus Airlines and Wizz Air also offer flights, often to Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW). Flight time is typically 3.5 to 4 hours.
  • To Coastal Resorts: During the holiday season (roughly April to October), numerous direct charter and scheduled flights operate to popular coastal airports:
  • Antalya (AYT): Gateway to resorts like Side, Belek, Kemer, and Alanya.
  • Dalaman (DLM): Serving Marmaris, Fethiye, Ölüdeniz, and Dalyan.
  • Bodrum (BJV): For Bodrum peninsula resorts.
  • Izmir (ADB): Access to Kuşadası and ancient Ephesus. Airlines like easyJet, Jet2.com, TUI, and SunExpress offer these routes from many UK regional airports. Flight times are around 4 to 4.5 hours.
Sunshine & Seasons When's the Perfect Time for Your Turkish Delight?

Turkey's diverse geography means varied climates, so the best time to visit depends on your plans:


  • Istanbul:
  • Spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to October) are ideal. Temperatures are pleasantly warm, perfect for sightseeing without the intense summer heat or winter chill. Skies are generally clear, and the city is vibrant.
  • Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid.
  • Winter (November to March) can be cold, with occasional rain and even snow
  • Coastal Resorts (Aegean & Mediterranean - e.g., Antalya, Ölüdeniz, Bodrum):
  • May to October is prime time for beach holidays. Expect hot, sunny days and warm sea temperatures. July and August are the hottest months.
  • Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) are fantastic for enjoying the coast with slightly milder temperatures, warm seas, and fewer crowds – great for exploring ancient sites too.
  • Winter (November to March) is generally mild but can be rainy, and many tourist facilities and some hotels in resort towns may be closed.

Turkish Treasures Top 4 Unforgettable Experiences

From ancient wonders to stunning coastlines, Turkey offers a feast for the senses:

(01)

Lose yourself in the awe-inspiring city where East truly meets West. Explore the iconic Hagia Sophia, a marvel of Byzantine architecture; gaze at the stunning blue tiles of the Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque); wander through the opulent courtyards and harems of Topkapi Palace, once the heart of the Ottoman Empire; and get lost in the labyrinthine alleys of the Grand Bazaar and the aromatic Spice Market. A Bosphorus cruise offers breathtaking views of the city straddling two continents.

Step into History in Majestic Istanbul!

(02)

Discover why Turkey's southern and western coastlines are legendary. Charter a traditional wooden boat called a "gulet" for a blissful day (or longer!) cruising the crystal-clear turquoise waters, stopping in secluded coves for swimming and snorkelling. Alternatively, find your perfect patch of sand. Don't miss the stunning Blue Lagoon at Ölüdeniz, the vast expanse of Patara Beach (a protected turtle nesting site), or the vibrant beaches around Antalya and Bodrum.

Sail the Turquoise Coast or Relax on a Picture-Perfect Beach!

(03)

Journey back in time with a visit to the remarkably well-preserved ancient city of Ephesus, near Kuşadası and Izmir. Once a major Roman port city, its magnificent ruins include the Library of Celsus, the vast Great Theatre, terraced houses with intricate mosaics, and marble-paved streets. It's one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world and a must-see for any history enthusiast.

Walk Through Ancient Civilisations at Ephesus!

(04)

For a truly unique and rejuvenating cultural experience, treat yourself to a Turkish bath. This centuries-old ritual involves relaxing in a steamy, ornate marble room, followed by an invigorating scrub (kese) and a blissful olive oil soap massage. It’s a fantastic way to unwind after a day of sightseeing and leaves your skin feeling incredibly soft. Many historic hamams can be found in Istanbul, and modern versions are available in most resorts.

Indulge in a Traditional Turkish Bath (Hamam)!

Turkish Travel Smarts Top Tips for First-Timers

1

Visa & Money Matters

UK citizens travelling to Turkey for tourism typically need an e-Visa, which should be obtained online before travel from the official Republic of Turkey e-Visa website. Always check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advice and visa requirements well in advance. The currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). While some tourist areas may accept Euros, it's best to use Lira for most transactions. ATMs are widely available.

2

Haggle with a Smile

When shopping in bazaars and markets (like Istanbul's Grand Bazaar), bargaining is part of the fun and expected. Start by offering a lower price than quoted and negotiate politely and with good humour to reach an agreeable price. This doesn't apply in modern shops or department stores with fixed prices.

3

Dress with Respect

When visiting mosques, women should cover their heads, shoulders, and knees (scarves are often provided at the entrance). Men should also ensure their shoulders and knees are covered. It's generally appreciated to dress modestly when away from beach resorts, especially in more conservative areas.

4

Getting Around

Istanbul has an excellent public transport system including trams, metro, buses, and ferries – an Istanbulkart is useful. In coastal resorts, local minibuses called "dolmuş" run frequent routes and are very affordable. Taxis are common, but always ensure the meter is used or agree on a price beforehand for longer journeys.

Turkey A Land of Endless Discovery Awaits

Turkey is a country that will enchant you with its breathtaking blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, stunning coastlines, and the genuine warmth of its people. From the mesmerising energy of Istanbul, a city that has been the capital of empires, to the sun-drenched beaches and ancient ruins that dot its beautiful shores, Turkey offers a truly diverse and rewarding holiday experience. Whether you're exploring millennia-old temples, savouring delicious mezes and kebabs, haggling for treasures in bustling bazaars, or simply relaxing by the turquoise sea, you're sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.


With its incredible heritage, delicious cuisine, and fantastic value, Turkey invites you to embark on a journey that will delight your senses and broaden your horizons. Get ready for an adventure that perfectly marries the old with the new, the exotic with the familiar.