Holiday rentals in Turkey

Getting to Turkey: transportation in Turkey

Ataturk International Airport is the primary arrival point for most international visitors. Direct buses to Taksim Square run regularly throughout the day, but at peak times it is advisable to take the metro to avoid the infamous Istanbul congestion. Istanbul’s second airport, Sabiha, is located on the Middle Eastern side of the Bosphorus Strait and is the home to many low-cost airlines.

If you’re hiring a Turkey holiday letting close to the capital, then you can fly to Ankara’s airport, Esenboga. Turkey boasts an efficient and extensive, if chaotic, national bus network. You can reach most destinations by bus but be prepared for crowds and transfers. Car letting is available in all cities and international airports.

Food and drink in Turkey: kebabs and more in Turkey

Booking yourself a Turkey holiday letting is perfect if you're a foodie. The country's most notable gastronomical export is the Doner kebab but there is much more to experience than this. Kofte, a beef or lamb meatball, is served a variety of ways, from stews to sandwiches, and the savoury pastry Borek is another must try. Baklava, a sweet and nutty pastry, is delicious either after a meal or with a cup of sweet Turkish tea.

Local wine is also gaining prestige in this trans-continental country. With over a thousand varieties of local grape, selecting a local vino is a perfect accompaniment when dining in at your Turkey holiday home. Turks like to share, and ordering a variety of small tapas-style dishes is a great way to expand your pallet without committing to a whole dish.

Weather in Turkey: what to expect from the weather in Turkey

The varied topography in Turkey makes a generalisation of the climate difficult but can be considered a tale of two halves. In summer you can expect hot, dry days while in winter temperatures plummet and snow is fairly common. Eastern regions are known for being exceptionally hot in summer and coastal regions are cooler, but are subject to more snow in the winter.

Sights in Turkey: what to see when in Turkey

Istanbul is brimming attractions for those who hire a Turkey holiday letting in the capital. The confluence of Islam and Christianity is clearly visible in the architecture, seen in the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Sultan Ahmet Mosque. Ankara is home to the Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk who founded the Turkish republic and the famous Atakule Tower.

Beyond the cities, Turkey has many natural wonders and points of interest. Thrill seekers should head to the northern Black Sea district. The heavily forested area is home to quaint towns, rivers and hiking trails, perfect for those who want to explore Turkey’s natural beauty. The southern Mediterranean coast offers golden beaches and clear blue waters. The area also boasts lakes, waterfalls, and lagoons.

It’s also feasible to ski in central Turkey, as the winter months occasionally produce snow, but it is not guaranteed.

Nightlife in Turkey: when the sun sets in Turkey

Nightlife in Turkey is dictated by where you choose to visit. For those hiking in the mountains, there is little in the way of evening activities. However, for those with a Turkey holiday home in Istanbul, and other large cosmopolitan cities, there is a variety of choice.

Istanbul is home to many bars and clubs, most of which are located in the Taksim vicinity. Evening boat cruises are also popular and many clubs stay open well into the early hours. The coastal resort of Bodrum is where you’ll find the famous ‘bar street’ hosting many drinking venues. However, there are several subdued cafés and restaurants which pepper terraces along the shore for a more relaxed evening.