Located at the crossroads
between Europe and the Middle East, the
culture of Turkey reflects these mixed influences.
Visitors to the country can enjoy a range
of outdoor activities, the archaeology and
coastal resorts. Between April and September
the Black Sea coast is at its best. During
the Spring and Autumn months the climate
is good in Istanbul and on the Aegean and
Mediterranean coasts. Popular events include
the Istanbul Festival of Arts, between late
June and mid-July. National Sovereignty
Day on the 23rd of April.
Capital City: Ankara
Population: 69 million
Area: 780,000 sq km
Geography: Turkey is on the Black Sea
coast. The region of the country to the
west of the Bosporus is geographically part
of Europe, whilst the rest is in southwest
Asia. There are narrow coastal plains, a
high central plateau and several ranges
of mountains.
Getting There: Unlike visitors from most European countries,
British citizens need a visa to enter Turkey,
which can be purchased on arrival for a small
fee. There are road and rail links from neighbouring
countries and ferry services from the Greek islands.
Flights are available from across Europe to Istanbul's
Ataturk airport and the Mediterranean tourist
resorts.
