As the bridge between Asia and Europe, surrounded by the Mediterranean, Aegean and Black seas, Turkey occupies a unique geographical position. It is located at the crossroads of the Balkans, Caucasus, Middle East, and Eastern Mediterranean, and borders eight countries including Greece, Azerbaijan, and Syria. Turkey is currently pursuing membership in the European Union, and it’s one of the larger, more populous countries in the region.

Turkey is home to more than 80 million people. Istanbul is its biggest city, and Ankara is the capital. The country is a mix of Asian and European cultures, and it’s home to a diverse set of traditions and beliefs. These are reflected in its cuisine, music, and customs. Major cities such as Istanbul, Antalya, and Ankara are also thriving hubs for local and international business and tourism.

With its vibrant culture, unique location, mild weather and long, colorful history as a home to many ancient civilizations, Turkey is an attractive destination for tourists and investors from around the world. In 2019 alone, nearly 50 million tourists visited Turkey, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organization. In the cultural capital Istanbul, the most visited sites include the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, Galata Bridge, the Golden Horn, the Grand Bazaar, and the Bosphorus Bridge, which connects Europe and Asia.

Turkey also has one of the most thriving real estate markets in Europe and the Middle East. Nearly 10 years ago, it abolished a law that put limits on foreign ownership of real estate. And that has led to big growth in the Turkish market. According to the Turkish trade ministry, in 2018, foreigners purchased nearly 39,700 homes there.