Turkey is the land that bridges East and West. With it comes a fascinating blend of history, culture, food and natural beauty. Whether you’re an adventurer, history enthusiast, or simply seeking a relaxing holiday, Turkey has something for everyone.
With 2025 on the horizon, there’s no better time to add this gem to your travel plans. Here’s why.
A wealth of history and culture
Few countries can match Turkey’s rich cultural legacy. Once home to the Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman empires, it’s a treasure trove of landmarks and historical significance.
Istanbul, the largest city, is like a living museum with iconic sites such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Each tells a compelling story of empire-building, religious fusion and cultural exchange through the ages.
Beyond Istanbul, Turkey offers equally impressive historical sites. Explore Ephesus, one of the Mediterranean’s best-preserved ancient cities, or the ruins of Troy, immortalised in Homer’s Iliad. For something unique, visit Cappadocia’s fairy-tale landscapes, where ancient cave dwellings and churches are carved into the striking rock formations.
The country’s cultural richness extends far beyond its history; its contemporary culture is vibrant, warm and welcoming. Turkish people are renowned for their hospitality and no trip is complete without sipping traditional tea and immersing yourself in a lively bazaar with the locals. Haggling is a local custom, so be prepared for this if you’re shopping!
Affordability compared to Europe
Turkey remains one of the more affordable destinations when it comes to European tourist hotspots. Compared with the likes of France, Italy, Greece and Spain, accommodation and transport are generally better value. This gives you more bang for your buck and extra cash to spend elsewhere.
Whether you’re staying in a five-star resort or a cosy guesthouse, Turkey holidays offer excellent value for money. Even in popular tourist hubs like Istanbul, a meal at a good restaurant costs a fraction of what you’d pay in London or Paris. Your budget might even stretch to one of the Michelin-starred restaurants in the city, such as Nicole or Neolokal.
A sumptuous culinary journey
From sizzling kebabs to delicate mezes, Turkish food is a fusion of Central Asian, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences.
The cuisine is renowned for its diversity, flavour and freshness, and each region has its own culinary specialities. It’s a food lover’s paradise and something different if you’re already accustomed to other European cuisines.
Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast (kahvaltı), featuring cheeses, olives, eggs and freshly baked bread. For lunch, sample lahmacun, a thin, crispy pizza-like dish, or börek, a savoury pastry. Street food is plentiful – savour the delights of simit (a sesame-crusted bread ring) or köfte (lamb or beef meatballs).
For those with a sweet tooth, Turkish desserts like baklava – dripping with honey and pistachios – or künefe, a cheese-filled pastry soaked in syrup, will more than satisfy your cravings.
Make Turkey your favourite destination in 2025. It promises unforgettable experiences, mouth-watering food, endless cultural exploration and a warm welcome at every turn.
