Turkey

Types of trips: Culture and Art, History and Architecture, Religion, Outdoor and Active, Water sports, Winter Sports, Relaxation

Best known for: The city of Istanbul, Troy, Shish Kebab, Doner Meat, Baklava, Being the bridge between Europe and Asia.

Why Go?: At the bottom right corner of Europe, Turkey bridges the European and Asian continents. It's culture and architecture reflect this, the vibrant country has incredible buildings and sights unlike those anywhere else in Europe. It's not too far to go and it would be an fascinating destination for school groups.

Fact File

Population: 76,700,000 

Capital: Ankara

Language(s): Turkish

Ties to the UK?: Popular holiday destination

Landscape: Most of the east (Asian) part of the country is mountainous, Lakes, Rivers, Islands, Beaches

Climate/Seasons: The climate varies depending on region but generally the summers are hot and in most places quite dry and the winters are cold and wet

When to Go: Most destinations are preferable in the spring although in such a large an diverse country you'll easily be able to find something to do all year round. The Seaside resorts get very busy in the Summer and Istanbul and Cappadocia peak in the Autumn

Reasons to Visit: As cultural hotspot, Turkey offers something really different and interesting, Istanbul being a European location with a lot of Asian culture and influences

How to Get There: Being at the far end of Europe your best option will be to fly. Flights to most destinations are frequent and reasonably priced, although prices do vary significantly depending on time of year.

Places to Go: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Fethiye, Nemrut, Abant

Famous People: Theodesius II, St. Nicholas, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Fairy Cimneys in Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Sakikent Gorge

History: Ottoman Empire, Republic of Turkey

Architecture: Sultanahment Mosque (pictured above), Selimiye Mosque, Ottoman style houses

Culture: Mix between a modern Western state and traditional religious country

Sport: Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Athletics

Events: Republic Day, Classical Music Festivals, Lifestyle Events

Watch Out For: You'll need a visa to enter enter the country, Make sure you're aware of any customs as to avoid causing any undue offence

Medical Issues: No mandatory vaccinations required

Watch this video about visiting Istanbul in Turkey!