Turkey – Latest News

If you wish to return to this website (www.hisaronutouristguide.com) bookmark it now , as links below will take you to a different website.

• ‘Terror-Free Türkiye’ process advancing step by step: Erdoğan February 24, 2026
  President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said Tuesday that Türkiye was carefully advancing what he called the “Terror-Free Türkiye” process, pledging to continue operations against any threats to national security and public order.
• Cypriot leaders hold ‘open, sincere’ talks February 24, 2026
  Turkish Cypriot President Tufan Erhürman on Feb. 24 described his meeting with Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides as “one of the most open and sincere” talks held to date, as the two sides pledged to push forward confidence-building measures despite limited tangible progress.
• Iran says students must respect 'red lines' after protests February 24, 2026
  Students have a right to protest but must "understand the red lines", Iran's government spokeswoman said yesterday, in the first official reaction to renewed anti-government rallies on campuses.
• Iraq, Chevron signs deals to develop oil fields February 24, 2026
  Iraq and the U.S. energy giant Chevron signed deals on Feb. 23 to manage and develop several oil fields, including one previously operated by Russia's Lukoil.
• Gaza board explores coin plan for Gaza post-war economy February 24, 2026
  Officials from the U.S.-led Board of Peace, tasked with overseeing Gaza’s postwar reconstruction, are considering launching a cryptocurrency to help revive the territory’s shattered economy, according to the Financial Times.
• CHP calls on EU to include Türkiye in ‘Made in Europe’ initiative February 24, 2026
  The main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) has launched a campaign for Türkiye's inclusion into the European Union’s “Made in Europe” initiative, its chairman Özgür Özel has said, underlining the importance of continued economic and trade engagement between Ankara and Brussels.  
• Speaker begins party tour after parliament's anti-terror report February 24, 2026
  Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş has begun a series of visits to political leaders following the delivery of a final report by a commission overseeing the government’s "terror-free Türkiye" initiative.  
• Violence-hit Guadalajara to host World Cup games February 24, 2026
  The city of Guadalajara erupted with cartel violence this past weekend, alongside other parts of Mexico, after an army raid left a notorious drug lord dead.
• France demands explanation from US envoy over no-show February 24, 2026
  France's foreign minister Tuesday demanded an explanation after U.S. envoy Charles Kushner failed to show up to explain comments about a slain far-right activist but said ties between France and the United States would not be affected.
• Marriages decline, divorce rates rise in Türkiye in 2025: Data February 24, 2026
  Marriage rates in Türkiye declined in 2025, while divorce rates continued to climb, according to newly released data on marriage and divorce statistics by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK).  
• Food and energy drive household inflation concerns February 24, 2026
  The Central Bank of Türkiye reported that households’ 12-month-ahead annual inflation expectations remained unchanged from the previous month, standing at 48.81 percent, according to the Households Expectations Survey released on Feb. 24.  
• Antalya braces for tourism boom with Ramadan, Easter holidays February 24, 2026
  With Nevruz, Easter and Ramadan holidays aligning in March, Antalya's tourism industry is gearing up for an early and powerful rebound this spring, says Kaan Kaşif Kavaloğlu, the president of the Mediterranean Touristic Hoteliers and Operators Association.  
• Rising gold prices impact Türkiye’s current account deficit February 24, 2026
  A $100 increase in the price of gold per ounce translates into an estimated $400 million negative impact on Türkiye’s current account balance, according to Turkish Miners Association President Mehmet Yılmaz.  
• Türkiye emerges as AI powerhouse in its region February 24, 2026
  Türkiye is carving out a leading role in artificial intelligence across Eastern and Southeastern Europe, standing as the only country in the region to produce AI unicorns — companies valued at over $1 billion.  
• Ukraine marks four years since Russian invasion February 24, 2026
  Ukraine marked the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion on Tuesday with a show of solidarity from its staunchest allies, but with no end in sight to Europe's bloodiest conflict since World War II.
• ‘Masters of the Apocalypse’ to honor Béla Tarr at Arter February 24, 2026
  Curated by Azize Tan, the “Masters of the Apocalypse” Film Program will take place at Arter from Feb. 25 to March 1, 2026.
• Çanakkale Strait to become digital route with AR, VR technologies February 24, 2026
  A new project led by Professor Erol Duran from the Tourism Faculty of Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University will transform the Çanakkale Strait into a digital cultural heritage route using augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies.
• Türkiye set to launch dual-track entry for top high schools amid boarding shortages February 24, 2026
  Turkish authorities are preparing to roll out a major change to admissions for some of the country’s most prestigious public high schools, separating competition for boarding places from non-boarding seats starting this year, the education minister has announced.
• Istanbul trains household dogs for disaster search and rescue February 24, 2026
  Nineteen household dogs in Istanbul are being prepared to serve on the front lines of disaster response, following a comprehensive search and rescue training program led by the Istanbul Provincial Directorate of Disaster and Emergency Management (AFAD) in cooperation with trainers from six district municipalities.
• Türkiye to establish invasive alien species list, monitoring system February 24, 2026
  Türkiye is set to establish a national invasive alien species list and set up a nationwide monitoring system to prevent the entry and spread of invasive alien species across the country, in accordance with a new regulation prepared by the Agriculture and Forestry Ministry published in the Official Gazette.
• AKP prepares to hand new charter draft to Erdoğan: Report February 23, 2026
  Officials from the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) are preparing to present the first draft of a new constitution to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, daily Milliyet reported on Feb. 23.  
• Fear the fiery horse February 23, 2026
  I find the connections and similarities of the Chinese and old Turkic 12-animal zodiac fascinating, by covering the subject over the years, I discovered that there are quite a number of similarities in the food traditions too, though the Chinese and Turkish cuisines seem to be planets apart.
• Türkiye launches probe into major social media platforms over child data safety February 23, 2026
  Türkiye’s data protection authority has opened an ex officio investigation into six major social media platforms as part of a broader push to strengthen safeguards for children online.
• Five must-see ancient theatres in Turkey August 6, 2021
  As the lands of Turkey hosted numerous civilizations and empires for thousands of years, the country still carries traces of history. There are more than 50 unearthed ancient theaters in Anatolian lands, remaining from the Greek and Roman periods. 
• 10 hidden beauties of Turkey for an isolated vacation July 9, 2020
  Turkey, with its abundance of natural and cultural heritages, is a place where tourists from all over the world can spend their holiday, whether it is an adventurous one or a calm one. While the Anatolian lands host millions of tourists every year in its popular destinations, the country also hosts numerous pristine locations. Click through the story in phot […]
• Academics spending more than 30 years in ancient excavation area April 30, 2020
  As 2020 was declared the Year of Patara, interest increased in the ancient city, located between the resort districts of Kaş and Fethiye
• The life of Whitney Houston to be made into feature film April 24, 2020
  The Oscar-nominated screenwriter behind “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “The Two Popes” has been lined up to write and co-produce a new feature film on the life of Whitney Houston, U.S. media reported April 22.
• Beyoncé, Gaga offer hope at all-star event fighting COVID-19 April 19, 2020
  Lady Gaga, Stevie Wonder, Lizzo, Shawn Mendes and others sang classic songs brimmed with messages of hope and change during a TV special aimed at fighting the coronavirus, while Beyoncé and Alicia Keys spoke passionately about how the virus has disproportionately affected black Americans.
• Handwritten 'Hey Jude' lyrics sell for $910,000 April 12, 2020
  A sheet of paper bearing Paul McCartney's handwritten lyrics to "Hey Jude" sold for $910,000 in an online auction held on April 10 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Beatles' historic split.    
• First supermoon of 2020 brightens up Edirne skies February 10, 2020
  A supermoon is seen over Turkey's northwestern Edirne province on Feb. 9, 2020. The astronomical event occurs when the moon is closest to Earth in its orbit, making it appear much larger and brighter than usual. (AA Photo)
• Cappadocia under snow: A winter fairy tale February 1, 2020
  As winter tightens its grip in Turkey, Cappadocia's beautiful scenery under a blanket of new pristine snow mesmerizes visitors. (IHA Photo)
• Istanbul’s emotion map revealed January 31, 2020
  The Mental Health Association, a Turkish-based non-governmental organization, has found the Maiden Tower in Istanbul is where the users of a smartphone application found the most romantic place in Istanbul, Turkey’s largest city.
• Stockbreeders life in Turkey's Van January 28, 2020
  Stockbreeders are seen with their flock at a countryside following snowfall during winter season in Van, Turkey on Jan. 27. (Source: Anadolu Agency)
• Riveting time-lapse photos of the night sky from east Turkey January 9, 2020
  A photographer from Turkey shot riveting time-lapse photos of the night sky from eastern Bingöl and Elazığ provinces.
• Top 5 best treks near Istanbul November 26, 2019
  Love the outdoors and exploring on foot? Here are some of the best hiking trails in near Istanbul!
• 5 must-visit Turkish villages November 12, 2019
  Turkey is one of the most extraordinary countries to visit. Here, we list the 5 unmissable villages in the country.
• A magical journey into the sea: Turkey’s underwater museum November 5, 2019
  Turkey’s first underwater museum takes scuba divers into a mystical journey with over 115 sculptures.
• Most budget-friendly destinations for a fall getaway in Turkey October 22, 2019
  As the weather gets colder and Mother Nature gently spreads its autumn colors, destinations for fall getaways become more popular among the world’s tourists. Turkey, with its abundant natural heritage, offers budget-friendly and romantic destinations for travelers. Click through for the most affordable holiday stops in Turkey. (Photos: Alamy)
• World’s top 20 beautiful cities list has one Turkish metropolis October 21, 2019
  Turkey’s metropolis Istanbul has been ranked 17th in the list of the most beautiful cities in the world by online travel agency Flight Network. Click through for the top 20 most beautiful cities in photos… (Photos: Alamy)
• Color fest in autumn in Kazdağları October 15, 2019
  Chestnut forests in the Kazdağları, surrounded by yellow and red tones and autumn outfits, attract photographers and outdoor sports enthusiasts.
• Enchanting sunset at Mount Nemrut October 5, 2019
  Visitors snap photos of massive stone heads that stare down on them from the summit of Mount Nemrut. (Source: The Associated Press)
• Butterfly garden in Central Anatolia draws 1.5 mln visitors in 5 years September 9, 2019
  The Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden is the only place in Turkey where one can observe every phase of metamorphosis, from small larvae to colorful butterflies.
• Turkish women who made history August 16, 2019
  With the birth of the Turkish Republic, many rights have been granted to women, marking a milestone in the history of both the country and the world. The modern republic’s founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, and his sweeping reforms have aimed to create gender equality between women and men, as he was one of the first leaders in the world to grant women the righ […]
• Ceremonial Hall, the most spectacular room of Dolmabahçe August 13, 2019
  Dolmabahçe Palace has been astonishing visitors with its stunning architecture and breathtaking designs but the most astounding room it houses is the Ceremonial Hall.
• Aizanoi, the second Ephesus of Turkey August 10, 2019
  Aizanoi, located in the western province of Kütahya’s Çavdarhisar district and on the UNESCO Tentative List of World Heritage, is home to the best-protected temple in Anatolia: The Temple of Zeus. (Photos: Alamy)
• Most bizarre Turkish superstitions that will surprise you July 11, 2019
  From seeing a black cat to breaking a mirror, Turkish culture embodies many superstitions that are quite unique. Click through for our list, prepared by İnci Hazal Özcan, to find out the most bizarre Turkish superstitions - which will definitely surprise you... (Photos:Alamy)
• Seven must-see ancient cities in Turkey June 29, 2019
  Turkey, with its abundant cultural heritage, was home to many ancient and archaic civilizations and empires. The patterns and remains of this rich history and culture are still evident in the ancient sites of Anatolian lands. Click through this photo gallery for the most mesmerizing and mystical ancient cities in Turkey, as compiled by İnci Hazal Özcan:
• Top 10 sites for camping in Turkey June 22, 2019
  From the Black Sea region to the serene beauty of the Aegean and the Mediterranean, Turkey offers picturesque camping sites for those seeking a budget-friendly holiday in the wilderness. Click through for our list, prepared by İnci Hazal Özcan, including the best ten camping sites in Turkey that you should know about:
• 5 hidden exotic paradises of Turkey May 23, 2019
  Crystal clear waters, golden beaches and abundant natural heritages, along with thousands of artifacts and ruins from ancient times, the Anatolian lands intrigue many guests from overseas. But for those looking for a calmer journey in Turkey, the country still holds many uncharted summer destinations waiting to be discovered. Click through for five hidden ex […]
• 11 prominent Turkish painters of 20th century May 8, 2019
  Don’t let the 150-year history of modern Turkish painting fool you; it is only the tip of the iceberg. Rooted in the 500-year history of traditional Ottoman miniaturization, the art of painting evolved in these lands when the society was released from Abdulhamid II’s tyrannical reign. Click through for 16 ingenious Turkish painters of the 20th century you sh […]
• 16 astonishing UNESCO sites you probably didn’t know were in Turkey January 3, 2019
  Turkey has been the host to many ancient civilizations and empires for ages. Its heritage can be seen in its preserved sites, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Some of them remain largely undiscovered, though. Click through for our list, prepared by İnci Hazal Özcan, including the 16 UNESCO sites in Turkey that you should --but probably did not-- […]
• Most popular Turkish pilot on social media changes job October 3, 2018
  Ebru Ünsal, who has been described as the most popular Turkish pilot on social media, has switched jobs. Click through for the story in photos...
• Top 15 exciting places and activities in Turkey September 22, 2018
  For lovers of adrenaline sports and wildlife activities, Turkey presents a number of breathtaking options. Click through for the full list with a bonus in the end...
• Turkey’s top 50 female CEOs September 6, 2018
  Turkish business magazines Capital and Ekonomist have selected the “50 Powerful Female CEOs” of Turkey. Here is the full list announced at a ceremony in Istanbul on Sept. 5, 2018:
• Top 10 waterfront restaurants in Turkey, selected by Hürriyet jury September 5, 2018
  Whether it is the gorgeous Bosphorus or the biblical River Euphrates, Turkey provides many options for those who would like to dine at a waterfront venue. Click through for the top 10 waterfront restaurants in Turkey selected by Hürriyet Travel’s jury of experts.
• 22 unique experiences in Turkey, from petting stray cats to oil wrestling August 30, 2018
  If you come to Turkey, you should not leave without experiencing at least some of its uniqueness. See, hear, feel, eat, travel, have fun and love in Turkish style. Click through our list of unique experiences that you can only have in Turkey...
• Top 10 natural marvels in Turkey selected by Hürriyet’s jury August 29, 2018
  The Anatolian geography with its climate, unique location and biodiversity is home to several unique natural beauties. Lakes in the green valleys, mountain plains, unique rock formations, rivers, valleys and beaches… Hürriyet Travel has compiled the must-see natural marvels of Turkey. It is our hope to preserve these landscapes in the future. Click through f […]
• Top 9 places in Turkey for vacation in September August 28, 2018
  Those who have not been able to go on vacation over the summer or those who wish to extend their vacation can check Hürriyet Travel’s list for the best holiday destinations in Turkey in the month of September. Click through for the story in photos...
• Top 10 boutique hotels in Turkey August 21, 2018
  Daily Hürriyet’s travel supplement, Seyahat, has listed the top 10 boutique hotels in Turkey. Click through for the story in photos...
• Best restaurants in Istanbul, ranked by Turkey's Pearly Gastronomy Guide August 20, 2018
  The Hürriyet newspaper's jury of experts has created the "Pearly Gastronomy Guide" to rank Turkey's best restaurants. Click through for the top 20 restaurants in Istanbul, according to the 2018 guide...
• Top 20 museums in Turkey August 17, 2018
  As a historic home to great civilizations like the Roman and Ottoman empires, Turkey has some of the world’s best museums. Click through for our top 20...
• Top 29 must-try Turkish street foods August 8, 2018
  Turkey is frequently described as a paradise when it comes to cuisine. Along with that, it also has hidden treasures in its streets as well. Click through for the top 29 Turkish street foods from "wet" hamburger to roasted chestnut, selected by the gastronomy jury of daily Hürriyet...
• 15 best hotels of Turkey in 2018, according to Tripadvisor August 6, 2018
  Tripadvisor’s annual list of best hotels has been published. Click through for the top 15 hotels in Turkey that won Travellers’ Choice 2018 awards with the votes of the website’s users.
• Turkish doctors become social media influencers June 28, 2018
  A recent trend on social media in Turkey is the increasing influence of a group of good-looking Turkish doctors. Click through for the photo story by Hürriyet reporter Kübra Genç...
• Best souvenirs to buy from 30 places in Turkey August 20, 2015
  Best souvenirs to buy from 30 places in Turkey