Turkey

A two-continent city of Byzantine and Ottoman landmarks, Bosphorus ferries and lively neighbourhoods, with spring and autumn the easiest seasons for long days outside.

A Mediterranean city of Kaleiçi lanes, harbour views and nearby beaches; mild shoulder seasons balance the long, hot and rain-scarce summer.

An easygoing Aegean waterfront city of promenades, markets and layered history, best explored in the mild spring and autumn rather than peak summer heat.

A whitewashed Aegean peninsula town wrapped around twin bays, with a long swimming season and a sharp summer peak in heat and demand.

A Cappadocian base for dawn balloon flights and valley walks, with clear dry summers, shoulder-season hiking weather and genuinely cold winters.