AT A GLANCE Turkey is a holiday destination that has something for families, couples and lone travellers alike.

Steeped in history, anyone with an interest in ancient relics will be in awe of the various must-see sites here, as well as many attractions that celebrate more modern Turkish culture. With exhilarating activities available for adventurous types, plus beach resorts for the sun seekers, Turkey is one of the most versatile destinations around. WHEN TO GO The peak seasons for visiting Turkey are Spring and Autumn, although Summer is very popular with families. As Turkey is largely a Muslim country, anyone visiting during Ramadan may have to make some minor adjustments to their travel plans, and allow for busier transport and changed opening hours. Weather Spring: The prime time to visit Turkey as the weather is warm but not intolerable Summer: Temperatures during the summer months can get very hot, but the waters of resorts on the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts are ideal for helping you cool down Autumn: Has mostly mild weather but there is a chance of rainfall from October onwards Winter: From November to February it can be extremely chilly with showers and the possibility of snow. The main advantages of visiting Turkey at this time of year are the quieter resorts and cheaper prices
Image: Sunset in Turkey, by JVP pHoTOs on Flickr

THINGS TO DO Whether youre looking to entertain the children or simply wish to find out about Turkeys vast history, you will find a wealth of attractions to keep you busy on your holiday here: Attractions Turkish Baths: The baths or hamams, can be found all over Turkey and are definitely worth visiting for an afternoon of steaming your troubles away. Whirling Dervishes: The Mevlevi Order is a traditional Islamic sufi Way. The Mevlevis are also known as the Whirling Dervishes due to their fascinating ceremonial practice of whirling around at speeds, as an act of remembering God.

Olympos: The city was founded in the Hellenistic period and still attracts tourists due to the artefacts that can be found there, along with the spectacular scenery. Basilica Cistern: Historically used to store water for the Great Palace and other nearby buildings, this underground site is one of Istanbuls must-sees, not least for the spectacular architectural features, including over 300 columns. Hagia Sophia: Another example of magnificent architecture can be seen in the many domes of Hagia Sophia, Istanbul. Until Seville Cathedral was built, this was thought to be the largest cathedral for around 1000 years. Troy: This ancient city was made famous in Homers epic poem, the Illiad, as the site of the legendary Trojan War. There is now a Turkish national park here, and you can also explore a reconstruction of the infamous Trojan horse. Marmaris Atlantis Water Park: This water park provides a great day out for the whole family, full of fun-filled activities including mini-golf, bowling and of course a variety of pools and water slides. Ataturk Forest Farm and Zoo: This recreational farming area is home to a zoo, a variety of small farms, several restaurants and a brewery. Aspendos Theatre: This theatre, found in Side and built in 167 AD, is one of the best examples of a functioning ancient amphitheatre. Throughout the summer the theatre is home to the Aspendos International Opera and Ballet festival.

Nightlife When it comes to discovering the best of nightlife in Turkey, Istanbul quite rightly springs to mind, and being such a large city, it unsurprisingly boasts a night out for all tastes. Marmaris and Bodrum are two other lively resorts and have nightlife targeted particularly at a younger crowd. Wherever you venture in Turkey however, you are bound to find a selection of bars and welcoming tavernas serving local wine and Raki. Indigo: This club is the home of Istanbuls trendy electro scene. You can also see some impressive visual shows here due to the advanced projection technology it houses. Sherlock Holmes: At this venue in Ankara, you can experience the best of both worlds - there is a Turkish nightclub on the first floor and a traditional British pub upstairs. Club Catamaran: If you like the idea of walking on water, this Bodrum club is perfect. The novelty factor of Club Catamaran is that it is a floating club with six different bars and a unique glass dance floor. Babylon: In the central Beyoglu district of Istanbul, this venue is more of performance centre, its main appeal being the wide variety of live music that is played. Bar Street: It is hard to choose just one bar or club from the great selection in this lively strip opposite Marmaris harbour.

Buzz Beach Bar: This Oceanside watering hole is considered to be one of Oludenizs top dining and wining spots, offering up a selection of cocktails and an opportunity to sit back and watch the sunset.

Activities in Turkey If you are the restless sort and not quite content lounging on the beautiful sands at one of Turkeys beach resorts, there are plenty of activities to entertain even the most adventurous of people. Hiking: There are a mix of both long distance and shorter trekking routes through the Turkish mountains. The Lycian Way, the St. Paul Trail and the Kackar Mountains Trail are three of the best. Diving: With crystal waters aplenty, its no surprise that there are numerous renowned diving spots dotted around the Mediterranean and Aegean coast lines. Some popular sites include Kas, Bodrum, Fethiye and Antalya. Water sports: Waterskiing, wake boarding and windsurfing are all on offer at the majority of beach resorts. Mountain Biking: You can find biking tracks and trails to suit all levels of experience, particularly around Cappadocia, the Turquoise Coast and the Kackar mountains. Jeep Safaris: These adrenalin fuelled, off-road excursions, can be taken all over Turkey and allow you to see much more of the landscape than you could in your average hire car. Mountain Cable Car Trip: Go from sea to sky with a cable car trip to the top of Mount Tahtali to experience breathtaking views.

Images: Olympos, Turkey by Denverkid / Hagia Sophia by Michael Gottwald / Aspendos Theatre by Simon Bunting / Turkey nightlife by Prasad Kholkute

SHOPPING The shopping in Turkey is incredibly varied. From outdoor markets and covered bazaars to chic boutiques, you will no doubt find something to suit all your shopping needs. For authentic souvenirs, you should take a look at Turkish silk, hand crafted jewellery and leather apparel. Shopping Areas: Istanbul: Istanbuls fusion of old and new culture is very much reflected in the shopping experience. You can find plenty of gift shops selling traditional ware, as well as a variety of modern shopping centres and chic boutiques. Marmaris: A great destination for picking up bargains, particularly noted for its handmade jewellery trade. Markets: Fethiye Market: The Fethiye Market happens on Tuesdays and Fridays and is particularly good for picking up fresh fruit and veg. Istanbul Spice Market: This market was once the largest spice trading venue in the country, and is still an excellent spot to pick up some exotic flavours. Grand Bazaar: One of the largest covered and oldest markets, this Istanbul Bazaar incorporates 60 covered streets, all specialising in different produce. Bodrum Markets: There are food markets here on Thursdays and Fridays, and a fabric and clothing market on Tuesdays.

Shopping Centres: Historia: This shopping mall is located in the Fatih district of Istanbul. Spread over 6 floors, there are Turkish, American and European brand stores here. Metrocity: Metrocity shopping centre can be found in the Levent area of Istanbul. It is home to a large selection of multi national shops, fast food and coffee chains. Optimum Outlet: This department store has chains in Ankara, Istanbul, Adana and Izmir.
Image: Grand Bazaar by Laszlo photo

FOOD & DRINK Turkish cuisine can be described as a fusion of Central Asian, Middle Eastern and Balkan flavours. Unsurprisingly, there is delicious, fresh seafood to be found in abundance in the coastal regions of Turkey. Some traditional dishes that should be tried during a stay include kebabs, meze and baklava.

Popular Turkey Hotspots: Istanbul: There are cafes, restaurants, pubs and wine-houses galore in and around central Istanbul. You can easily sample a delicious selection of Turkish cuisine or for those who prefer their home comforts; there are plenty of places where you will find a range of international classics. Side: The real speciality in Side is freshly caught seafood, which you can try at many water side restaurants. Ankara: The capital city is without a doubt one of the best places to have traditional Ottoman dishes, either in a restaurant or from one of the many street vendors.

Image: Meze by schmuela via Flickr

CULTURE & ETIQUETTE Though generally more liberal than in the past, parts of Turkey are still fairly conservative, so its important to respect the culture and be aware of what may be considered offensive. Turkish is not the easiest of languages to learn, but its always good to attempt to learn some basic phrases. Useful Phrases Tantmza memnum oldum Pleased to meet you Teekkr ederim Thank you ngilizce biliyor musunuz? Do you speak English? zgnm, Trke bilmiyorum Im sorry I dont speak Turkish Tuvalet nerede acaba? Where is the toilet, please?

Dos and Donts DO try to eat everything on your plate when served food. Its so delicious you shouldnt struggle! DONT eat in public between sunrise and nightfall during Ramadan. DO bring mosquito spray as there are many mosquitos around between March and September. DONT eat with your left hand, as it is considered unclean. DO dress conservatively when outside of the larger cities. DONT point at people with your finger or make the OK sign, as both are considered to be obscene. DO try and throw yourself into the Turkish culture. DONT show the soles of your feet, as this is thought to be an insult. DO barter when shopping at markets and bazaars - there is always some wiggle room on original prices.

Tipping Tips are not necessarily expected in the smaller Turkish restaurants, but they are appreciated and its polite to show gratitude by leaving anything between 5-10%. In more upmarket restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is customary. When getting taxis, you should round up the fare, while hotel porters will be happy with a couple of lira per bag carried. Also, if you do visit one of the highly recommended hamams, the attendants there will approach you for a small gesture of appreciation.
Image: Ok Hands by Instant Vantage on Flickr

TRANSPORT Getting Around Buses: Buses are one of the most popular forms of intercity transport in Turkey and often prove to be quicker than using trains. Trains: The Orient Express may be gone, but there is still a reliable train network that runs between the major towns and cities, as well as to other countries. Trains do not go along the coastline, however for the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts you could go by train to either zmir or Konya, and take the bus from there. Taxis: Official Turkish taxis are bright yellow in colour and have a sign on the roof with the word taksi. They are generally reasonably priced and use a digital meter system. Ferries: There are ferry services to Italy, Greece and Lebanon, as well as several other domestic and international destinations. Bodrum and Marmaris are two of the main places these services depart from. Airports: The main Turkish airports for both international and domestic flights are located in Istanbul, Antalya, Bodrum, Dalaman and Izmir. Dolmus: These shared taxis/mini-buses have set routes they take within and between cities, but generally you can get off at any point. Dolmus are usually faster than standard buses. Gulet: These traditional Turkish wooden sailing vessels are popular for tourist charters. Trams: On the European side of Istanbul, the tram runs from Kabatas to Bagcilar.

Fare Information Taxis: A 15 minute taxi ride will cost around 15 TL. Trains: A train from Istanbul to Ankara costs about 25 TL, in economy class.
Image: Turkey Taxi by Leandro Neumann Ciuffo

HEALTH & SAFETY British Embassy in Turkey - UK in Turkey Emergency numbers: 112 (ambulance), 155 (police), 110 (fire), 158 (coast guard) TURKEY BLOGGERS TOP TIPS Natalie Sayin - Turkish Travel Blog The diversity of Turkey from region to region is mind-blowing so my tip is to get out and explore. Do not visit just one destination on your holiday. Hire a car or use local bus transport to get from one place to the next. Beach lovers should visit resorts on the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts and adventure sport junkies should specifically concentrate on the Kas to Antalya route. Anyone interested in culture should explore the southeast while Ottoman and Byzantine history is predominant in Istanbul. If you love nature, beautiful landscapes and trekking, head to the Northeast Black sea region. Turkey has something to offer everyone. Just do a little bit of research first to find out the ideal place to visit that will suit your hobbies and passions. Ellen Rabiner - Ellen in Turkey One thing you absolutely must do while in Antalya is take a boat ride form Kaleici's harbour. If you have the time, take the full day trip. This will have you swimming under waterfalls and eating freshly-caught fish. It also provides the best view of the historic marina, whose natural beauty is enhanced by the ancient Roman city walls. If your time is limited, take a one-hour cruise. You'll still get the great photos, and your feet will appreciate the break from exploring the winding cobblestone streets of Kaleici. Annie - Back to Bodrum To make the most of your visit to Turkey, try to spend at least a day away from the coast and visit a rural area. In just 20km, you will begin to appreciate the amazing diversity of this country. Ideally hire a car for the day or if daunted by the apparent anarchy on the roads, take a dolmus (minibus) inland. If you are staying on the Bodrum peninsula, catch a minibus from the Bodrum bus station to Mumcular on a Sunday morning. The weekly market here attracts very few foreigners but is the meeting point for residents from all the surrounding villages and hamlets, giving you an opportunity to mix with the local population unaffected by tourism. Go early though - the market is finished by lunch time.