A land full of history, contrasting landscapes, tasty cuisine and unforgettable visits: embark for Turkey ! Between Europe and the East, this country collects superb sites, resulting from the mixture of these two cultures. Its varied landscapes, sometimes mountainous or paradisiacal, attract each year many holidaymakers.
Famous for its Ottoman and Byzantine architecture, Istanbul abounds in world-famous architectural treasures. Among the monuments not to be missed is the Blue Mosque : prized for the magnificent blue mosaics that adorn its walls (the blue faience of Iznik), it is the most famous mosque of the city. Built between 1609 and 1616, this building has six minarets, emblematic of Ottoman architecture. Every year, millions of visitors come from all over the world to discover this essential monument. Facing the Blue Mosque, stands the Basilica of Saint Sophia : this 6th century Christian church was transformed into a mosque in the 15th century before becoming a museum. You can admire its sacred mosaics, its immense dome and its dome. Saint Sophia is one of the city's emblems, the second most visited monument in Istanbul. Both magical and surprising, the Basilica Tank is also one of the monuments you absolutely must see in Istanbul (especially if it is hot during your stay !). Built in the 6th century to meet the water needs of the population, this "sunken palace" is like out of time. Inside it, silence is king : the water shines on the stone and along its 336 imposing columns, between which fish swim. You'll come out dazzled ! Then climb to the top of the Galata Tower : from the top of this former prison, you will have an unobstructed view over all of Istanbul. After strolling in the Grand Bazaar and discovering the Topkapi Palace, a boat tour on the Bosphorus will allow you to admire the banks of Istanbul, lined with wooden houses and sumptuous palaces.
Turkey's largest city is a real gourmet paradise, full of restaurants that will thrill your taste buds : balik ekmek (delicious fish sandwich) borek, meatballs, mezze, stuffed vegetables, kebap, lokums, teas and baklavas... All tasty dishes that won't leave you hungry !
Ankara is a perfect base for visiting Cappadocia or Anatolia and is teeming with museums and monuments, including the Byzantine citadel of Ankara, the temple of Augustus and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. Visitors in search of relaxation will certainly take a well-deserved break in one of the four spas located a few kilometres from the capital.
Whether by the Black Sea, the Aegean Sea, the Marmara Sea or the Mediterranean, you will find many seaside resorts along the 8000 kilometres of Turkish coastline. Lovers of swimming and idleness will surely go to Bodrum, nicknamed the "little Turkish Saint-Tropez". Its architecture, the quality of its clear waters and its lively nightlife make it a privileged holiday resort. Also note that Bozcaada, Cesme, Patara and Datça have some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
Finally, lovers of atypical excursions, do not miss the region of Cappadocia and its troglodyte cities dug right into the rock. In Göreme, Kaymakli or Uchisar, you will discover unusual cities classified as Unesco world heritage sites. To end your stay in an unforgettable way, climb aboard a hot-air balloon to discover all the splendours of the region. Photographers will not fail to immortalize the incessant broom of hot-air balloons, flying over volcanic landscapes.
