Everything You Need To Know For Turkey
Geographical Position And Climate Of Turkey
Turkey is uniquely situated, straddling both Europe and Asia. Geographically, the majority of Turkey is located in Anatolia, also known as Asia Minor, while a small portion lies in the Balkan Peninsula in Southeast Europe. This positioning between two continents has given Turkey a rich cultural heritage and strategic importance throughout history.
The country is bordered by eight countries: Greece and Bulgaria to the northwest, Georgia to the northeast, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Iran to the east, and Iraq and Syria to the south. It is surrounded by seas on three sides – the Aegean Sea to the west, the Mediterranean Sea to the south, and the Black Sea to the north. The Sea of Marmara, which includes the strategically important Bosphorus and Dardanelles straits, separates the European and Asian parts of Turkey.
Turkey experiences a variety of climatic conditions due to its extensive geographical area and complex topography.
Brief History Of Turkey
The region that is now Turkey has been inhabited since the Paleolithic era. The Hittites established an empire in Anatolia in the second millennium BCE, which later fell to invasions by Phrygians and others. The Greek city-states along the Aegean coast flourished, leading to the rise of Ionia and the classical age of Greece. Following Alexander the Great’s conquests, the area was Hellenized, leading to a mix of Greek and native cultures.
After the division of the Roman Empire, the eastern portion became known as the Byzantine Empire with its capital at Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul). This Christian empire lasted for over a thousand years until the Ottoman Turks conquered Constantinople in 1453. The Ottoman Empire expanded to become a major world power, encompassing large areas of Southeast Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa.
The decline of the Ottoman Empire culminated in its defeat in World War I and subsequent partitioning by the victorious Allied powers. Out of the ashes of the empire arose the Turkish War of Independence led by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. In 1923, the Republic of Turkey was founded with Atatürk as its first president. He implemented sweeping reforms to modernize Turkey, including the adoption of a new legal system, the Latin alphabet, and secular education.
Since then, Turkey has undergone periods of democratic governance interspersed with military coups. It has developed into a major regional power with a growing economy and is a member of various international organizations, including NATO, the G20, and the Council of Europe. Turkey’s bid to join the European Union has been a significant aspect of its foreign policy, though it has faced numerous challenges and delays. Today, Turkey continues to navigate complex domestic and international landscapes, striving to balance its rich heritage with contemporary aspirations.
Religion
The dominant religion in Turkey is Muslim.
Language
The country’s official language is Turkish. English is spoken in major cities and tourist areas.
Turkey is a top-tier tourist destination that offers an extraordinary range of attractions and experiences due to its unique position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Its rich historical legacy includes ancient ruins, such as Ephesus and Troy, and the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, which encapsulates the country’s Byzantine and Ottoman past.
Places You Must Visit In Turkey
- Istanbul
- Ankara
- Antalya
- Bodrum
- Pamukkale
- Cappadocia
- Kaçkar Mountains
- Ararat Mountains
- Lake Van
- Sumela Monastery
Before You Visit Turkey
Travel to Turkey
By Air:
The most common way to get to Turkey is by air. Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) in Istanbul are the main international gateways, serving flights from all over the world. Other significant airports include Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB), Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB), and Antalya Airport (AYT), which also offer international connections.
By Road:
Turkey can be accessed by road from neighboring countries such as Greece, Bulgaria, Georgia, Iran, and Syria. International bus services are available, providing an economical but longer travel option.
By Train:
There are limited international train services to Turkey, including routes from European cities that connect through Bulgaria and Greece.
By Sea:
Maritime access is possible through cruise ships and ferries that dock at various coastal cities like Istanbul, Izmir, and Bodrum. There are ferry services connecting Turkey with Greek islands and other ports in the Mediterranean.
Visas for Turkey
e-Visa:
Many nationalities are eligible for an e-Visa, which is a convenient online process that can be completed prior to arrival. Travelers simply fill out an application on the official Republic of Turkey e-Visa website, pay the fee, and receive their visa electronically.
Visa-Free Entry:
Citizens of certain countries can enter Turkey without a visa for short visits. The duration of visa-free stays typically ranges from 30 to 90 days within a 180-day period, but it’s important to check the specific terms for your country.
Visa on Arrival:
A few nationalities may obtain a visa upon arrival at Turkish airports or border crossings, although this option is less common and travelers are generally encouraged to use the e-Visa system to avoid potential delays.
Sticker Visa:
For those who cannot obtain an e-Visa or are not eligible for visa-free entry, a traditional ‘sticker’ visa must be applied for in advance at a Turkish diplomatic mission.
Best time to visit Turkey
The best time to visit Turkey largely depends on your interests and the regions you plan to explore, as the country’s diverse climate leads to varying conditions throughout the year.
Spring (April to May):
Spring is often considered the ideal time to visit Turkey. The weather is pleasantly warm, making it perfect for sightseeing, exploring historical sites, and enjoying the blooming landscapes. This season also avoids the peak summer crowds.
Summer (June to August):
Summer is the high tourist season, especially in coastal areas like the Aegean and Mediterranean, where beachgoers enjoy hot, sunny days.
Autumn (September to November):
Like spring, autumn provides moderate temperatures and fewer tourists, making it a great time to visit. The sea remains warm enough for swimming, especially in early autumn, and the changing foliage offers beautiful scenery.
Winter (December to March):
Winter is the low season, with cooler weather and occasional rain or snow, depending on the region. It’s the best time for skiing in mountain resorts like Uludağ and Palandöken. City breaks can also be enjoyable, with fewer crowds at major attractions and lower accommodation rates.
Important Information
Capital – Ankara
Territory – 783,562 km2
Currency – Turkish lira
Time zone – UTC+3 (TRT)
Population – 85,372,377
Demonym – Turkish