Turkey: Turkey, the link between Europe and the Middle East

Sun, beach, culture and history: a complete change of scenery!

Covering almost all of Anatolia, Turkey has an immense territory equivalent to 1? times the surface area of mainland France, with a population of 85 million. This giant is bordered to the north by the Black Sea, to the west by the Aegean and to the south by the Mediterranean. Its maritime borders make up almost 80% of its perimeter: Turkey is a leading seaside destination, but it is its historical and cultural depth that makes it so unique.

A change of scenery is guaranteed with this country that is definitely close by: a trip to Turkey means a holiday full of discoveries, just a few hours from France. It takes just 3? hours to reach Istanbul from Paris by plane! Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey is usually thought of as a link between the two continents, even though almost 97% of its territory is on the Asian continent.

Ankara may well be the capital, but Istanbul, located on both banks of the Bosphorus, remains the country's largest city, and the most magical: this exceptional city has no equal anywhere in the world! Ancient Constantinople is as captivating for its rich history as it is for its chaotic lifestyle. All you have to do is immerse yourself in the Sultanahmet district, the old centre, to contemplate sumptuous religious buildings such as the Basilica of Saint Sophia or the incomparable Blue Mosque, which have become symbols of Turkey.

After Istanbul, it's the Turkish coast that's really coming into its own, thanks to its beaches and coves, the Mediterranean sunshine and outstanding archaeological and natural sites. Tourism is concentrated around the major seaside resorts, the international stars of which are Antalya, the queen of the Turkish Riviera, Bodrum, the local Saint-Tropez, and Kusadasi, near Izmir... In each case, you can combine seaside idleness with sporting and cultural activities.

Almost all of Turkey's resorts are built around the remains of ancient or medieval cities, while the country, with its turbulent and prestigious past (from the Trojan War to the Ottoman Empire, via the Hellenistic Kingdoms and the Eastern Roman Empire), is full of spectacular archaeological sites.

It's well known that Turkey is home to some of the finest remains of antiquity, including Ephesus, Pamukkale, Aphrodisias, Hierapolis, Pergamon and as far east as Nemrut Dagi.

A legacy from the past, who wouldn't dream of trying out the famous Turkish baths? Turkey, a seismic and volcanic zone, is one of the few countries with a geothermal subsoil, with water temperatures ranging from 20 degrees to over 110 degrees! There are 1,300 thermal springs throughout the country: the natural pools of Pamukkale are the most famous, but there are also hot springs in Balcova, Izmir and Cesme. Forged by this volcanic activity, the region of Cappadocia, in the heart of the country, is famous for its unusual landscapes, where chimneys and fairies alternate with troglodyte cities that seem to have stepped straight out of a fantasyworld...

But Turkish culture can also be discovered on the plate. With good reason, the country's cuisine is made up of hot and cold starters known as mezzés: cucumbers with yoghurt, marinated mackerel, stuffed aubergines, berek (puff pastry stuffed with cheese or meat), etc. As well as grilled meats, offered in the form of kebabs, fish is also on the menu. Bulgur or cracked wheat, rice and the traditional tomato-cucumber salad are the main accompaniments. A real treat!

And that's before mentioning the countless pastries and sweets at the end of the meal. Try the baklava, a puff pastry with honey and pistachios, loukoums and rose jam. The national drinks are raki, a type of anisette, as well as coffee and Black Sea tea.

If you are invited to a Turkish table, be aware that as long as you empty your plate, your host will fill it for you... When you are full, leave your plate full, as this means you have eaten enough.

Everywhere in Turkey, head to the bazaar to pick up some souvenirs: it's a veritable institution in the country. It's an excellent excuse to stroll, contemplate, bargain and take in the sights. The spices, the colours, the carpets... It's a world apart, that of the Orient. It's a journey that takes many forms!

Turkey's proximity, cultural heritage, astonishing landscapes and magnificent coastline make it a hugely attractive destination. It's a destination that can be discovered in many different ways, on individual or accompanied tours, on short breaks or long journeys... and no two experiences are ever the same!