We know it’s been said a million times in countless travel booklets, but we’re going to repeat this cliché here once again: "Turkey is where East meets West." Nowhere on earth can you experience the unique fusion of Eastern and Western cultures other than this enchanting country. With a mix of bustling metropolitan cities, tranquil coastal escapes, and historic landmarks, Turkey makes up for a spectacular destination for anyone heading on a corporate retreat. Whatever business you're involved with, Turkey can take your company retreat to new heights with its exotic attractions and activities. 

Imagine staring at magnificent mosques, munching on street cart seafood, or smelling spices on a stroll through the Grand Bazaar. All of these unique experiences — and plenty more! — await you and your team on a Turkish team-building adventure.

Top Business Retreat Locations in Turkey

At over 780,000 square kilometers (300,000 square miles), Turkey is a huge nation that could fit Germany, the UK, and France within its borders. With such a massive size, Turkey has a lot of different locations to choose from in terms of topography, climate, and population density. While there are too many potential Turkish retreat destinations to list in one blog, a few areas stand out. 

Istanbul: Where Business Meets Culture

As a city that has served as the capital of three great empires—Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman—it's safe to say Istanbul has quite the story. In this mega-metropolis, your team will feel the pulse of history and the mixture of different cultural influences, which can ignite group creativity and introduce fresh perspectives. Istanbul's unique blend of old and new creates an environment that encourages forward-thinking while being grounded in a deep and dynamic history.

Of course, the domes of the Hagia Sophia and the opulent halls of Topkapi Palace are the "must-see" attractions in Istanbul. Art lovers will also find much to admire at Kariye Mosque's ancient mosaics or in Istanbul's contemporary galleries. For a more hands-on experience with Istanbul's culture, consider booking classes in traditional Turkish arts like ebru (marbling) or calligraphy. 

But it's not all about learning and art on a retreat to Istanbul. After all, no business retreat is complete without a chance to unwind, and Istanbul delivers. Teams can savor delicious Turkish cuisine in a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Golden Horn or relax in a hammam after a productive day. To cap off your Istanbul retreat, why not go out in style with a sunset cruise along the Bosphorus? Seeing this city's skyline one last time, illumined by the glow of minarets and palaces, offers the perfect moment of reflection and team connection.

For more company retreat ideas in Istanbul, check out how OnsiteHub recommends making the most of this fantastic city.

Bodrum & Antalya: The Heart & Soul of the Turkish Riviera

If stunning scenery is what you're after in a corporate retreat, put Bodrum and Antalya at the top of your idea list. Thanks to its location on Turkey's Aegean coast, Bodrum is known as the "Turkish Riviera," it certainly lives up to that nickname with its impressive natural landscape. This is where you can easily take your business retreat outside with activities ranging from hiking and kayaking to yoga and cruising. For those who love a bit of an extra adventure, Bodrum offers opportunities for windsurfing and diving in the waters of the Aegean. Wherever you turn here, the landscape screams out for a rejuvenating retreat.

At the same time, Antalya, known as the "Pearl of the Mediterranean," is the ultimate complement to Bodrum. It offers a stunning mix of untouched beaches, dramatic cliffs, and the snow-capped Taurus Mountains in the background. Those visiting Antalya for corporate team building will find both cultural richness and natural beauty, with ancient ruins neighboring luxurious modern resorts.

That's exactly what the remote-first cryptocurrency company Gasp sought when they turned to OnsiteHub to organize their retreat. We heard plenty of "gasps" when team members arrived in style at their Bodrum retreat with a hotel pickup to visit many delightful and delicious attractions (including a gulet boat excursion and a local olive oil factory tour). Gasp also had the chance to enjoy plenty of tasty fresh seafood from Bodrum in the BBQ beach parties OnsiteHub arranged on the beach. 

As Gasp's People & Administration head Klaudia Kelenyova said, "Thanks to [OnsiteHub], we had an amazing time together — we're still talking about our retreat and funny situations that brought us together during our video calls. We can't wait to start planning the next one for 2025!"

To learn more about the possibilities of a Bodrum retreat, read OnsiteHub's full case study for Gasp or visit our page dedicated to the Turkish Riviera.

Other Noteworthy Retreat Destinations in Turkey

While Istanbul, Bodrum and Antalya are three of the most popular destinations, here are a few other locations worth considering:

• Cappadocia: Famous for its hot air balloons, "fairy chimney" formations, and cave hotels, Cappadocia is perfect for companies that want to add a quirky dimension to their retreat.
• Pamukkale: This town in western Turkey may be the ultimate wellness retreat destination. The star attractions here are the thermal pools and white travertine terraces, both of which are sure to put your team in deep relaxation mode.
• The Gallipoli Peninsula: For those who want a more reflective and introspective retreat, the Gallipoli Peninsula provides a powerful backdrop for leadership development due to its role in World War I. The serene landscapes and historic battlefields in this area — which include tours of the Gallipoli Campaign — create an atmosphere where you can feel a sense of both resilience and unity.
• Kuşadası: Nestled along Turkey's Aegean coast, Kuşadası is one of the best beach destinations for teams who want to savor sunshine and sand on their retreat. Near the ancient ruins of Ephesus, teams can also explore historical landmarks in between shopping in local markets and enjoying all the food and nightlife this town has to offer.

What Are The Benefits of Holding Retreats in Turkey?

The potential pros of booking a corporate retreat in Turkey are endless, but two reasons this country stands out are its wealth of historical attractions and natural scenery. Whether you focus more on Turkey's cultural or outdoor treasures, this country always leaves a mark on those who visit. 

• Boosts Team Morale and Cohesion: Holding a retreat in Turkey offers a refreshing change of scenery and a break from the everyday work routine. Whether it's exploring a coastal town or hiking through ancient ruins, the activities available in Turkey foster a sense of unity and greater connection. 
• Provides a Unique Cultural Experience: Turkey's rich blend of Eastern and Western cultures offers a one-of-a-kind experience perfect for broadening a team's perspectives. Engaging with local traditions, cuisine, and customs forces teams to break through their comfort zones and feel a sense of "play" that could be valuable in the office.
• Opportunities for Team-Building Activities: Turkey is a fantastic destination for team-building activities that can break down barriers and enhance cooperation. For instance, participating in group challenges like cooking classes or traditional craft workshops boosts communication and helps teams develop leadership and problem-solving skills in a relaxed, fun environment.
• Exposure to Turkey's Rich History and Arts: Turkey's history goes way back, and some of the world's most impressive civilizations have left their marks in different places throughout this country. Visiting some of Turkey's awe-inspiring sites gives teams a deeper connection to the world's shared history and could kickstart creative thinking skills. 

Examples of Corporate Retreat Activities in Turkey

• Historical site visits and guided tours in Istanbul: The best way to soak in all of Istanbul's historic landmarks is on a guided tour. Consider booking an expert guide to better appreciate sites like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque.
• Beach activities and outdoor adventures in Bodrum: Enjoy sailing, kayaking, or hiking in Bodrum's famous turquoise waters.
• Cultural excursions to Cappadocia: Discover the famed fairy chimneys on a hot air balloon ride, and stay in the most memorable hotel…in an ancient cave!
• Wellness and Spa visits to Pamukkale: Unwind in the therapeutic thermal springs while enjoying spa treatments for a relaxation-focused retreat. 
• Culinary workshops and food tours: Learn traditional Turkish cooking techniques or take a food tour to sample delicacies like kebabs, börek (pastry), and köfte (meatballs). 
• Arts and crafts workshops inspired by Turkish traditions: Try hands-on experiences like pottery making or learning the art of Turkish calligraphy.

Practical Considerations for Planning a Retreat in Turkey

Are you dead-set on a retreat in Turkey? Before packing your bags and prepping for your hammam, let's review a few practical tips to make your Turkish stay extra delightful.

Generally, the best times to visit are spring (April to June) and fall (September to November), when the weather is superb for outdoor activities. Summer months (July and August) can be very hot, especially in inland areas like Cappadocia, so it's best to avoid this peak season if outdoor adventures are a priority.

As for travel logistics, Turkey is not part of the European Union, so travelers from EU countries will need to check visa requirements before departure. Many countries are eligible for eVisas or visa-on-arrival options, but confirm the latest regulations to avoid travel disruptions. Book flights and accommodations roughly six months in advance to secure the best rates.

Considering Turkey For Your Business Retreat? OnsiteHub is On It! 

With its history, landscapes, and luxurious yet affordable accommodations, Turkey stands out as a premier location for corporate retreats. If you're ready to pull the trigger on a multi-day team-building session in Turkey, then OnsiteHub is here to make your vision a reality.

We have first-hand experience helping companies strategize their perfect corporate retreats in dozens of hot locations, including Turkey. Contact OnsiteHub today for a personalized consultation to determine the best areas and activities for your business retreat needs. Also, stay in touch with OnsiteHub to receive our ultimate retreat planning masterclass by subscribing to our newsletter.