Capital City: Ankara

Country Population: 85.2 million (2022)

Official language: Turkish

Local Currency: Turkish lira (TRY)

Time Zone:  GMT+03 Hours

Calling Code: +90

Electricity: there are two associated plug types, types C and F. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz.

President: Recep Tayyip Erdoğan

The best time to visit Turkey depends on your interests and the activities you plan to do. Turkey is a large country with diverse regions and climates, so the best time to visit can vary depending on where you plan to go. Here are some general guidelines to help you plan your trip:

Spring (April to mid-June): Spring is a great time to visit Turkey, particularly for those interested in outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing. The weather is mild and pleasant, with fewer crowds than in the summer months.

Summer (mid-June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Turkey, and for good reason. The weather is hot and sunny, making it perfect for beach vacations and other outdoor activities. However, be prepared for large crowds and higher prices.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another great time to visit Turkey, especially for those interested in sightseeing and cultural activities. The weather is still warm and pleasant, and there are fewer crowds than in the summer.

Winter (December to March): Winter can be cold and snowy in some parts of Turkey, particularly in the east. However, winter is a great time to visit for those interested in winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.

Overall, the best time to visit Turkey depends on your preferences and interests. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast and consider any festivals or events you may want to attend when planning your trip.

Turkey has a rich culinary tradition that blends flavors and techniques from the Middle East, Europe, and Central Asia. Here are some of the most famous dishes and foods in Turkey:

Kebabs: Turkish kebabs are world-famous and come in many varieties. Some of the most popular types include doner kebab, shish kebab, and Adana kebab.

Baklava: This sweet pastry is made from layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and honey syrup. It's a staple dessert in Turkey and the Middle East.

Turkish Delight: Also known as lokum, Turkish delight is a sweet, jelly-like candy made with starch, sugar, and flavorings like rosewater and pistachios.

Borek: This savory pastry is made from phyllo dough filled with cheese, spinach, or meat. It's often eaten for breakfast or as a snack.

Pide: This Turkish-style pizza is made from a thin crust topped with cheese, meat, vegetables, and herbs. It's often baked in a wood-fired oven.

Meze: Meze is a selection of small dishes that are served as appetizers or as a meal on their own. Common meze dishes include hummus, stuffed grape leaves, and grilled eggplant.

These are just a few of the many delicious foods you can try in Turkey. Turkish cuisine is diverse, flavorful, and sure to satisfy any foodie.

Turkey has a rich culinary tradition that extends to its beverages as well. Here are some of the most famous drinks in Turkey:

Turkish Tea: Turkish tea, or çay, is a staple beverage in Turkey. It's typically served in small, tulip-shaped glasses and is black tea that's brewed strong and often sweetened to taste.

Turkish Coffee: Turkish coffee, or Türk kahvesi, is a strong, thick coffee that's brewed in a copper pot and served in small cups. It's typically enjoyed after meals or with friends and family.

Ayran: Ayran is a traditional Turkish yogurt drink that's made by mixing yogurt, water, and salt. It's a refreshing drink that's often served with meals or as a snack.

Salep: Salep is a hot, creamy drink made from orchid bulbs, milk, sugar, and cinnamon. It's often served during the winter months and is a popular drink at festivals and special events.

Boza: Boza is a fermented drink made from millet, wheat, or cornmeal, water, and sugar. It has a sweet, sour, and slightly yeasty taste and is often served with roasted chickpeas.

Fruit Juices: Turkey is known for its fresh, delicious fruits, and fruit juices are a popular drink in the country. Pomegranate juice, sour cherry juice, and orange juice are just a few of the many varieties available.

Raki: Raki is an anise-flavored alcoholic drink that's often compared to ouzo or arak. It's a popular drink in Turkey and is often served with meze or seafood dishes.

These are just a few of the many delicious and traditional drinks you can enjoy in Turkey.

Turkey has a lot and diverse culture that reflects its position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Here are some key aspects of Turkish culture:

The official language of Turkey is Turkish, which is spoken by most of the population. Turkish is a member of the Turkic language family and has its own unique grammar and vocabulary.

Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country, with around 99% of the population adhering to Islam. However, the country is officially secular, and people of all faiths are free to practice their religion.

Turkish art and architecture reflect the country's long and rich history, with influences from Byzantine, Ottoman, and Islamic styles. Some of the most famous examples of Turkish architecture include the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul.

Turkish music and dance have a long and rich history, with influences from the Middle East, Europe, and Central Asia. Traditional Turkish music includes a variety of instruments, such as the saz, a type of lute, and the kanun, a type of zither. Folk dances like the Halay, Horon, and Bar are also an important part of Turkish culture.

Turkish cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and diverse ingredients. Some of the most famous Turkish dishes include kebabs, baklava, borek, and meze. Turkish tea and coffee are also an important part of the country's culinary culture.

Turkey has many festivals and celebrations throughout the year, from religious observances like Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr to secular events like the Istanbul International Film Festival and the Ankara International Music Festival.

These are just a few of the many aspects of Turkish culture. The country's rich history and unique geography have given rise to a vibrant and diverse culture that continues to evolve and thrive today.

Turkey is a country that spans two continents, with a diverse range of landscapes and natural features. Here are some key aspects of Turkey's environment and geography.

Turkey is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, with borders that stretch from the Black Sea in the north to the Mediterranean Sea in the south. It shares borders with Greece, Bulgaria, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, and Syria.

Turkey's landscapes are incredibly varied, with mountains, valleys, forests, deserts, and coastlines. Some of the most famous natural landmarks in Turkey include Mount Ararat, the Pamukkale hot springs, and the Cappadocia region.

Turkey has a diverse climate, with different regions experiencing different weather patterns. The coastal areas have a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters, while the inland regions have a continental climate with colder winters and hotter summers.

Turkey is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic to the country. The country's forests are home to bears, wolves, and lynx, while its coastal areas are home to sea turtles and dolphins.

Turkey faces several environmental challenges, including air and water pollution, deforestation, and soil erosion. The government has implemented several initiatives to address these issues, including renewable energy projects and conservation efforts.

Overall, Turkey's environment and geography are characterized by their diversity and natural beauty. From the snow-capped peaks of the mountains to the sun-drenched beaches of the coast, Turkey has something for everyone to enjoy.

The history of Turkey is long and complex, with a rich and diverse cultural heritage. Here is a brief overview of key historical events in Turkey:

Prehistoric Era: The earliest human settlements in Turkey date back to the Paleolithic era, around 750,000 BCE. Over time, various civilizations emerged in the region, including the Hittites, Phrygians, and Lydians.

Ancient Era: In the 4th century BCE, Alexander the Great conquered the region, followed by the Romans and Byzantines. The Byzantine Empire, which was centered in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul), lasted for over a thousand years until it fell to the Ottoman Turks in 1453.

Ottoman Era: The Ottoman Empire, which was founded in the late 13th century, was one of the most powerful empires in history. At its height, it controlled large parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. The empire lasted until the end of World War I, when it was dissolved by the Allies.

Modern Era: After World War I, Turkey became a republic under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who implemented a series of reforms aimed at modernizing the country and separating it from its Ottoman past. Turkey remained neutral during World War II, and afterwards aligned itself with the West during the Cold War.

Contemporary Era: Today, Turkey is a rapidly developing country with a growing economy and a vibrant culture. It has faced several political and social challenges in recent years, including a failed coup attempt in 2016 and tensions with its neighbors and Western allies.

Throughout its long and complex history, Turkey has been shaped by a diverse range of cultures and civilizations, leaving behind a rich legacy of art, architecture, literature, and traditions that continue to influence the country and the world today.

Discovering Turkey can be an incredible experience with its unique blend of historical and cultural attractions, stunning natural scenery, and delicious cuisine. Here are some must-see places and experiences to have in Turkey.

Hagia Sophia: This is one of the most famous landmarks in Istanbul and was originally a church, then a mosque, and is now a museum. It is known for its massive dome and beautiful Byzantine architecture.

Ephesus: Once a thriving ancient city and a significant port, Ephesus is now a popular archaeological site with several famous structures including the Library of Celsius and the Great Theatre.

Topkapi Palace: This sprawling palace complex was once the primary residence of Ottoman sultans for hundreds of years. It has many ornate rooms, courtyards, and exhibits, including the Harem and the Treasury.

Mount Nemrut: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Nemrut is famous for the giant heads and statues that King Antiochus I Theos of Commagene erected in the first century BC.

Pamukkale: These cascading pools of white mineral water are famous for their beauty and therapeutic qualities and have been used for thousands of years for healing and relaxation.

Troy: The ancient city of Troy is a famous archaeological site and was the location of the Trojan War as described in Homer's epic poem, The Iliad.

Aspendos Theatre: This stunning ancient theatre is located near Antalya and was built in the 2nd century AD. It is famous for its remarkable acoustics and impressive architecture.

Sumela Monastery: Located in the Black Sea region, the Sumela Monastery is a Greek Orthodox monastery built into the side of a cliff. It is known for its stunning natural setting and impressive architecture.

Ani: A once-thriving medieval city, Ani is now a ruined ghost town with several remarkable structures, including the Ani Cathedral and the Church of the Redeemer.

Cappadocia: This unique region is famous for its fairy chimneys, underground cities, and cave dwellings, which have been inhabited for thousands of years. It is a popular destination for tourists and adventurers.

Turkey is famous for its vibrant markets and bazaars, where you can find a wide range of goods from traditional crafts to modern designer brands. Here are some of the best things to shop for in Turkey:

Turkish Carpets and Rugs: Turkey is known for its beautiful handmade carpets and rugs, which come in a variety of styles and patterns. The best place to shop for carpets is in Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, where you can find everything from small mats to large room-sized rugs.

Turkish Ceramics: Turkey has a long tradition of ceramics, with beautiful pottery and tiles produced throughout the country. Look for colorful plates, bowls, and vases, or intricate tile designs for your home.

Turkish Spices: Turkey is known for its delicious cuisine, and a wide range of spices and herbs are used in Turkish cooking. Look for exotic spices like sumac, cumin, and saffron, or blends like baharat and za'atar.

Turkish Delight: This sweet confectionery is a Turkish specialty, made from sugar, cornstarch, and various flavors and toppings like pistachios and rosewater. Look for small, individually wrapped pieces to take home as a souvenir.

Leather Goods: Turkey produces high-quality leather goods, from handbags and wallets to jackets and shoes. Look for shops and markets selling leather products in Istanbul and other cities.

Evil Eye Talismans: The evil eye is a common superstition in Turkey, and talismans in the form of small blue and white beads are used to ward off bad luck. Look for evil eye charms in markets and souvenir shops.

Turkish Tea and Coffee: Turkish tea and coffee are both famous throughout the world, and you can find a wide range of tea and coffee sets and accessories in markets and shops.

Turkish Bath Products: Turkish baths, or hammams, are a popular attraction in Turkey, and you can find a range of bath products like soap, oils, and scrubbing mitts to recreate the experience at home.

Turkish Jewelry: Turkey produces a wide range of jewelry, from traditional Ottoman-style pieces to modern designs. Look for silver and gold jewelry set with precious stones like turquoise and garnet.

Designer Brands: Finally, if you're looking for high-end fashion, Turkey has a number of designer brands and boutiques, especially in Istanbul. Look for Turkish designers like Zeynep Tosun and Bora Aksu, or international brands like Louis Vuitton and Gucci.

Turkey has a rich cultural heritage and hosts many events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and dance to food and art. Here are some of the top events and festivals in Turkey:

Istanbul Music Festival: This festival takes place in June and features classical music performances by world-renowned artists in some of Istanbul's most beautiful historic venues.

International Istanbul Film Festival: Held in April, this festival is one of the oldest and most prestigious film festivals in Turkey, showcasing a range of local and international films.

International Ankara Music Festival: This festival takes place in April and May and features classical and traditional music performances from Turkish and international artists.

Whirling Dervishes Festival: Held in Konya in December, this festival celebrates the mystical tradition of the Whirling Dervishes, with dance performances and other cultural events.

Istanbul Biennial: This contemporary art festival takes place every other year and showcases the work of Turkish and international artists in galleries and public spaces throughout Istanbul.

Antalya International Film Festival: Held in October, this festival showcases a range of local and international films in the beautiful coastal city of Antalya.

Troya International Music Festival: This festival takes place in August and features a range of musical genres, from classical to jazz to world music, performed in the historic city of Troy.

International Bodrum Ballet Festival: Held in August, this festival features classical and modern ballet performances by Turkish and international dancers in the beautiful seaside town of Bodrum.

International Istanbul Jazz Festival: This festival takes place in July and features jazz performances by local and international artists in venues throughout Istanbul.

Izmir International Fair: Held in September, this fair is one of the largest and oldest trade fairs in Turkey, featuring exhibitions, concerts, and other events celebrating Turkish culture and industry.