Why Türkiye Is One Of 2026’s Top Travel Destinations & How Brisbane Can Experience It
Merhaba!
By Bianca Licina | 19th November 2025This article is sponsored by Olive Thyme and proudly endorsed by Style. We only promote businesses that we love and think our readers will love too!
Türkiye is having a moment. With 2026 shaping up as the year of cultural adventures, Brisbanites are turning their sights beyond the usual European hotspots like the Amalfi Coast, the French Riviera, and Croatia – and Türkiye is calling. From dramatic coastlines to ancient cities, here’s your mini-guide to the must-visit spots in Turkey for your Euro summer travels and how to soak up its rich culture right here in Brisbane if travel isn’t on the cards next year.
Istanbul: where East Meets West
Start in Istanbul, the city that straddles two continents. Wander through the bustling Grand Bazaar, marvel at the Hagia Sophia’s intricate mosaics, and sip strong Turkish tea while watching the Bosphorus ferries glide by. It’s chaotic, colourful, and utterly unforgettable.
Cappadocia: Fairy Chimneys & hot air balloons
Next, head inland to Cappadocia. Famous for its surreal “fairy chimney” rock formations and magical hot air balloon rides at sunrise, it’s the perfect spot for photographers, romantics, and anyone who wants a dose of whimsy with their adventure.
Ephesus: step back in time
History buffs, this one’s for you. Ephesus is an ancient city with remarkably preserved ruins, including the iconic Library of Celsus. Walking these streets is like stepping straight into a textbook.
Bodrum: sun, sea, & nightlife
For those after a mix of sun, sea, and style, Bodrum is the place to be. This coastal town on the Aegean Sea is famed for its turquoise waters, historic castle, and buzzing nightlife. Lounge on the beach by day and sip cocktails in a chic marina bar by night – it’s the ultimate coastal escape. Think Mykonos, but less crowded and lesser known.
Gaziantep & Hatay: the culinary capitals
Foodies, rejoice. From Gaziantep’s world-famous baklava to Hatay’s muammara and hummus, Türkiye is a playground for the palate. Here, food isn’t just sustenance – it’s a way to bring people together, and every bite tells a story.
Can’t get on a plane? Experience Türkiye right here in Brisbane
If hopping on a plane next year isn’t on the cards, we get it. Between work, life’s commitments, and the limited annual leave, sometimes you need to find culture and adventure closer to home. Luckily, Brisbane is as multicultural as it gets – and rapidly earning its spot as one of Australia’s foodie capitals.
Enter Olive Thyme: your local passport to Türkiye, right in the heart of Brisbane. Here, a love of shared food isn’t just on the menu – it’s the philosophy. Named after the Turkish tradition of bringing people together over a meal, Olive Thyme is the ultimate spot for a group feast, whether it’s with friends, family, or anyone who just loves good food paired with great wine.
Owners Sibel and Yalcin pour their heart into every dish, blending authentic Turkish hospitality with fresh, locally sourced ingredients – many harvested from their own Bahche Farm in the Sunshine Coast hinterland.
On the menu
The menu is an adventure in itself: think traditional dips and breads, mezes, succulent mains, and indulgent desserts – hummus, babaganoush, slow-cooked lamb shoulder, charred chicken, tender octopus, pistachio ice cream… the works. Feeling daring? Let the chefs guide you with their tasting banquet, a perfect way to explore the full breadth of Turkish-Mediterranean flavours.
Pair your meal with a selection from their boutique wine list or a signature cocktail, and you’ve got a dining experience that’s casual, cultured, and undeniably fun.
Whether it’s a Friday night catch-up, a special celebration, or just a craving a touch of culture, Olive Thyme brings the magic of Türkiye to Brisbane – no passport required.
Imagery: Unsplash, supplied by Olive Thyme
