Turkey

WHERE ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS MEET

Discover Turkey Through the Ages

Ancient Anatolian kingdoms, Greek and Roman cities, Byzantine sanctuaries, Seljuk monuments and Ottoman palaces reveal the many layers of Turkey’s past. Explore archaeological sites, historic neighbourhoods and striking landscapes that connect Europe and Asia.

EXPLORE BY DESTINATION

Discover Turkey’s Destinations

Historic sights and landscapes in Istanbul Turkey

Istanbul

Walk through Byzantine Constantinople and the Ottoman capital, discovering Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, the Blue Mosque and historic bazaars.

Historic sights and landscapes in Cappadocia Turkey

Cappadocia

Explore fairy-chimney valleys, early Christian rock churches, underground settlements and centuries of life carved into volcanic stone.

Historic sights and landscapes in Ephesus Turkey

Ephesus

Discover one of the ancient Mediterranean’s great cities, from the Library of Celsus and Roman theatre to streets of marble.

Historic sights and landscapes in Antalya Turkey

Antalya

Explore Kaleiçi’s Ottoman streets, Roman Hadrian’s Gate, the old harbour and ancient sites along the Mediterranean coast.

Historic sights and landscapes in Troy Turkey

Troy

Visit the archaeological layers of ancient Troy and uncover the Bronze Age settlement behind one of the world’s most famous legends.

A Brief History of Turkey

From the Hittites and ancient Greek cities to the Byzantine and Ottoman empires and the modern republic, Turkey’s layered history survives in extraordinary archaeological sites, historic streets and monumental architecture.

c. 1650–1200 BCE

Hittite Empire

The Hittites build a powerful Bronze Age kingdom centred on Hattusa in Anatolia.

330 CE

Constantinople

Constantine dedicates Constantinople, later the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire.

1071

Seljuk Turning Point

The Battle of Manzikert accelerates the establishment of Turkic rule in Anatolia.

c. 1299

Ottoman Beginnings

Osman I’s frontier principality emerges, beginning the Ottoman dynasty.

1453

Ottoman Istanbul

Mehmed II captures Constantinople and makes it an Ottoman imperial capital.

1923

Republic of Turkey

The Republic of Turkey is proclaimed on 29 October under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

Ancient Crossroads

Hittite, Greek and Roman heritage remains visible in Anatolia’s temples, theatres, cities and archaeological landscapes.

Imperial Heritage

Byzantine churches and Ottoman mosques, palaces and markets reveal the changing imperial life of Istanbul and beyond.

Living Traditions

Seljuk craftsmanship, historic bazaars, regional architecture and diverse culinary traditions connect past and present.

PLAN YOUR TURKEY TRIP

Plan your journey through Turkey, with places to stay, guided cultural experiences, transport and flights.

Hotels

Find a comfortable base, from historic Istanbul hotels and Cappadocia cave stays to traditional guesthouses on the coast.

Tours & Activities

Discover guided experiences at ancient ruins, Byzantine landmarks, Ottoman palaces and memorable landscapes across Turkey.

Car Hire

Explore Turkey at your own pace, connecting archaeological sites, mountain landscapes, traditional towns and coastal routes.

Flights

Compare flights to Istanbul and other Turkish airports to plan the best arrival for your journey.

Trains & Buses

Plan buses and rail journeys between Turkey’s major cities and historical destinations; verify routes and schedules locally.

STAY INSPIRED

Discover Turkey, One Story at a Time

Get new stories about Turkey’s ancient cities, Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, archaeological discoveries and inspiring historic destinations, delivered straight to your inbox.