Why Turkey?
Turkey is one of the most diverse travel countries on earth — and reachable from Germany in under 3.5 hours. Forget the clichés of all-inclusive resort vacations: Turkey is a country that will surprise you again and again.
- Istanbul — World city between two continents — The only city in the world located on two continents. Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, the Grand Bazaar — and alongside, an explosive creative scene in districts like Karaköy and Kadıköy. Istanbul alone is worth a trip.
- World-class ancient sites — Ephesus, Troy, Pergamon, Hierapolis, Myra, Patara — Turkey has more Greco-Roman ruins than Greece and Italy combined. 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites testify to 10,000 years of civilization history.
- Cappadocia — a lunar landscape — Fairy chimneys, underground cities, rock-cut churches with Byzantine frescoes, and hot air balloon rides at sunrise over a surreal panorama. Unique worldwide.
- 8,333 km of coastline — From the Aegean to the Turkish Riviera to the Lycian coast: turquoise bays, ancient cities right on the beach, secluded islands, and one of the longest hiking trails in the world (the Lycian Way).
- One of the world's great cuisines — Turkish cuisine is one of the three most influential culinary traditions alongside French and Chinese. Kebab is just the tip of the iceberg: Meze, Pide, Lahmacun, Mantı, Baklava, Turkish tea, and coffee — each region has its specialties.
- Legendary hospitality — Turkish hospitality (misafirperverlik) is proverbial. You will be offered Çay (tea) unsolicited, locals help you with directions, and in rural areas, you'll be invited to meals. This warmth is genuine and overwhelming.
- Inexpensive like hardly any European spot — Due to the favorable exchange rate of the Turkish Lira, you get a lot for your money: an excellent dinner for two from 400–600 ₺ (approx. 12–18 €), luxury hotels at mid-range prices, museums for under 5 €.
- Hammam culture — The Turkish bath is more than wellness — it's a centuries-old ritual. In historical hammams like the Çemberlitaş Hamamı in Istanbul, you'll be scrubbed, kneaded, and reborn.
- Dreamlike hikes — The Lycian Way (540 km), the Karian Trail, the St. Paul Trail, and the hikes in Cappadocia offer world-class trekking with sea views, ancient ruins along the way, and wild nature.
- Bazaar culture — From the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul (over 4,000 shops!) to local weekly markets in coastal towns: bargaining is both art and pleasure. Spices, carpets, ceramics, leather goods, handcrafted jewelry — the selection is overwhelming.
Turkey is not just a vacation destination — it's an experience for all the senses. This country challenges you, surprises you, and will surely make you return.