A tranquil winter break: Chalet vacation
Fresh air, the sounds of nature and panoramic vistas… We launch our winter in Türkiye to-do list with a stay in a chalet. Available in nearly every region across Türkiye, chalets come in a range of sizes, configurations and comfort levels. In general, however, they are cozy cottages in peaceful settings surrounded by nature. Some even have fireplaces – all the better for snuggling up during a snowy weekend. For more, see our blog Embracing nature in the winter: a chalet holiday to discover chalets in the Black Sea, Marmara, Aegean, and Mediterranean regions.
From cool weather to warm water: Thermal tourism
Hot springs and thermal centers also offer a wide range of facilities. Mineral or spring waters heated by the earth are considered healing as well as relaxing – and draw guests of all ages. Some have extensive indoor and outdoor facilities, including saunas and multiple pools, while others are simpler and more streamlined. Read our blog, Türkiye’s best thermal centers warm you up in winter, to discover these natural pools city by city.
Explore a one-of-a-kind city: Experiencing winter in İstanbul
While ski resorts or hot springs usually come to mind for winter holidays, a visit to İstanbul offers its own unique charms. The city retains its liveliness, with everyone stepping just a bit more quickly due to the chill. You can warm up in historical buildings such as the Dolmabahçe or Topkapı palaces, or ascend to the top of the Galata Tower for sweeping vistas of İstanbul and the Bosphorus. Another way to stay cozy is to sample winter’s special street snacks along the way: get some roasted chestnuts on Istiklal Street, or enjoy a cup of hot boza or salep. For more on how to “winterize” your İstanbul visit, see our blog, Heart-warming routes for a winter holiday in İstanbul.
The great outdoors: winter camping
There are people who love cold weather and people who love camping…and then there are people who love cold weather camping, which is a category unto itself. Cold weather camping requires preparation, attention to detail and common sense in addition to an affinity for, well, the cold. Naturally, there are benefits to camping in the winter and Efe Dedeoğlu describes some of these, as well as offering great suggestions, in the blog, Back to Nature: What to bring on a winter camping trip.
A classic winter vacation: Ski resorts
Skiing! Snow-covered mountains and fabulous views…thrilling runs along steep slopes or relaxing cross-country jaunts…whatever your style, skiing is a classic – and fun – winter activity. There are numerous ski resorts throughout Türkiye that take advantage of the country’s beautiful mountain ranges to offer a variety of winter sports. For more information, just click on the blog, Skiing is great on the snow-covered mountains of Türkiye!
An urban break in the middle of winter
Spring and summer are key travel seasons but winter holidays in cold places have a different vibe. Cities and towns seem quieter, more peaceful. Conversely, certain activities, such as ice skating, add flair to otherwise ordinary parks. In Türkiye’s most beautiful cities, the winter experience is distinctive and delightful. These easy city trips will warm you in even the lowest temperatures. For more, read our blog, Cities in Türkiye that will warm your heart.
Winter landscapes
Each season is pleasant but winter, somehow, is especially picturesque. In our quiz, “Discover: What city is this winter view from?”, we explore fairy-tale views in chilly climes. We wish you good luck and leave you with delightful views!
