What is there to do in Turkey? What are key attractions and activities? Must go places? Things to do on the weekend? What is the weather like?

The Republic of Turkey is home to 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is consistently named one of the world’s must-see destinations. From the capital of Ankara, to the beautiful coastal cities of _ and _, to the cosmopolitan city of Istanbul, Turkey has no shortage of sightseeing and travel opportunities.

According to the US Department of State, “Istanbul is Europe’s second and the world’s eighth biggest city… Despite its population of more than 13.5 million people and the mass of visitors, the city is listed as one of the safest in the world.”

Istanbul is world-renowned for its unique mixture of contemporary and modern culture. In addition to the many festivals, exhibitions, and other large events the city hosts, small pazars occur weekly throughout the neighborhoods. Istanbul is home to over 50 museums covering a wide range of topics, from archaeology to fine arts, famous persons, industrial innovation, military history, and more. The city has more than 15 official parks and zoos, as well as two aquariums and a dolphinarium, and due to its location on the coast the city is an excellent place for watersports.

those interested in the night scene, Istanbul won’t disappoint. In addition to having some of the world’s most contemporary nightclubs on both the Asian and European sides, you can also find open-air clubs, rooftop bars, and an array of options for four- and five-star dining.

Since it is between the Marmara and Black Seas, Istanbul gets a nice breeze from the water. With winter temperatures averaging 50 dF (9 dC) and summer highs reaching 85 dF (29 dC), the city has a good climate all year round.