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Turkey Travel Tips (from a local): 15 Things to Know About Turkey

by Drifter Planet | Jan 26, 2020 | Turkey

Turkey travel tips post has been written by our Europe content specialist – Alara Benlier, who is originally from Turkey. This post has been further expanded by the editor. 

Turkey is historical, vibrant, and insanely beautiful. This country that’s twice the size of California offers an exhaustive selection of places to visit and travel experiences to its visitors.

While in Turkey, you can find pretty much every kind of landscape (and even more) if you know where to go.

You can enjoy thermal springs with crystal clear waters , relax on the inviting beaches, see the ruins of ancient empires, float on a hot air balloon over unique formations , party on a yacht like a millionaire, enjoy delicious cuisine , and even go skiing.

Turkey’s unique location attracts millions of tourists each year. No matter the season, you can do many fun activities here. Moreover, you can experience countless cultural trips, including wandering around ancient ruins that are also listed as Unesco World Heritage Sites. 

So, whether you are a passionate photographer, a gourmet, an adventure lover, or just a professional sunbather, you can have the holiday of your dreams in Turkey. If you are interested, here is everything you need to know before visiting Turkey from a born and raised Turkish expat. Here are my top Turkey travel tips for you.

Travel Tips for Turkey

Table of contents, turkey weather and when to visit.

No, Turkey isn’t just a summer destination like many places in Europe. Depending on what you want to do, you can visit Turkey during every season.

Istanbul and the Sea of Marmara region gets very warmer in summer and it can sometimes rain too. This area gets colder than many other parts of Turkey during winter and it can snow too (but not often).

Most of the coast of Turkey has typical warm Mediterranean weather (think of Italy, Greece, etc.) with warm and dry summers and mild winters. The middle part of the country (like Central Anatolia) gets warmer summer days but chilly nights and mornings. 

During spring, summer, and winter, not only you can enjoy many breathtakingly beautiful beaches, but also you can do lounging, parasailing, paragliding, and even canoeing in the ancient lands of Turkey. And starting from Winter, here is a winter wonderland.

Over the years, Turkey has become a hot spot for ski lovers with its excellent ski resorts, splendid hotels, and amazing nature.

Visa for Turkey

Some nationalities do not need a visa to enter Turkey, that includes some European countries a few Asian countries, and also a few South American countries. They can enter visa-free for 90 days.

Many other nationalities can enter with an eVisa and some with a conditional eVisa. Passport holders in Australia, the UK, USA need to apply for an Electronic Visa (e-Visa). Indian travelers can get a conditional e-Visa if they already have an active visa from the US, UK, Ireland, or the Schengen countries.

As the name suggests, the e-Visa Application System allows travelers to apply their e-Visas online. You just have to fill out the online form and pay the visa fee, and within 3 minutes, you will receive your visa! Just don’t forget to apply for your visa between three months to 48 hours before your travel date.

What is the capital city of Turkey?

Most people get this wrong. The capital of Turkey is not Istanbul, it is Ankara.

Is it safe to travel to Turkey?

The answer to this question is yes, but just like anywhere in the world, you should be cautious about your surroundings. Thankfully, Turkey’s name is coming clean after several terror attacks that happened in the past, and today, it is declared safe by many governments. 

Just be careful around the crowds, and if you are too anxious, try not to visit Turkey around religious and public holidays. Keep in mind that the coasts are safe, and big cities like Istanbul are always surrounded by policemen. Unless you are visiting the cities close to the Syrian border, I don’t think you have anything to worry about.

In any case, you should make it a point to read the travel advisory before you plan your trip and once again before you visit. 

Currency in Turkey and Managing Money

The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira . Although most places would prefer cash, you can also pay with VISA and Mastercard. 

Try to carry a smaller amount of money for smaller purchases. Turkey has banknotes for 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 lira. So carrying two 50 liras instead of one 100 lira might be better. Haggling is also very common in local shops. You might get up to 50% off from bigger purchases.

Which SIM Card to get?

Due to the legal restrictions, it might be complicated to get a local SIM Card if you’re traveling here for a longer period of time. Generally, you can get a SIM card by showing your passport at one of the shops in the airport or in a store in the city. 

There are three network operators in Turkey: Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom. They have official stores everywhere around the country. 

Turkcell is known for its good connection, but it is the most expensive one. Vodafone is also fairly good and Türk Telekom is the cheapest one. Although Türk Telekom is good, if you are planning to visit locations with high altitudes, I would stick with Vodafone or Turkcell according to my budget. 

Also, all mobile devices purchased outside Turkey that use a Turkish SIM must be registered with the government after 120 days. If not, you will end up with a phone that doesn’t work.  

Scams in Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the most visited cities in Turkey due to its historic beauty. And just like every other tourist city, here also has typical tourist scams.

Although the Turkish people are very helpful, it is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to scams. The most known ones are taxi scams, pickpockets, and paying more because you are a tourist. 

Taxis usually take a longer road to get you to your final destination to make you pay more money. To prevent that you can use public transportation, or if you have to use a taxi, you can ask the reception of your hotel or hostel to call a cab for you. 

To avoid pickpockets, you have to be careful about your belongings. If you are around a crowd, keep your bag in front of you or somewhere you can see it. 

Last but not least, sellers might charge you more money because they think that you don’t know the actual price of their products or services. To prevent that, do your research! Thanks to the internet, you are one click away from knowing all the best and the worst shops all around the World. 

Overall Istanbul is a majestic city, but keep in mind that Turkey offers more incredible cities. So, if you have enough time, try to spend less time in Istanbul, and explore other cities in Turkey.

Getting around in Turkey

You can get around in Turkey by internal flights, renting a car, using a coach, and depending on the location – even a ferry.  

With its bunch of airlines that fit your budget, Turkey can be easily explored by plane. Due to the competition, you can book a cheap flight and fly to almost every city in Turkey.

One of the low-cost carriers in Turkey is Pegasus Airlines, that’s what the Drifter Planet team used in Turkey twice. Although it is not the most environmentally friendly option, if you have a tight schedule, you can always get to your destination very quickly via plane.

Although renting a car is always an option, I wouldn’t recommend it. If you are aiming for a heart attack, then renting a car might be the one for you. Having one of the most expensive gas in the entire World, constant traffic, and of course, so many angry drivers that ignore most of the traffic signs, you can easily rent a car in Turkey with your passport or driver’s license. Just make sure to rent your car from a reliable agency, like Europcar, or Avis, and get insurance for the car. 

Most Turkish people use the coach, especially the night coach, as a more budget-friendly option. The buses in Turkey for longer destinations are very luxurious and shockingly affordable. Every Turkish town and city has a bus station, called Otogar . From there you can buy your bus ticket, which is called bilet in Turkish. 

If you are a solo traveler, depending on your gender, you can book a seat next to your own gender to ensure safety as well. During your trip, you will be served a cake or sandwich, and a bottle of water for free. Most of the bus companies also provide wireless Internet, and a film to watch. Buses will stop in many resting places for you to use the toilet, stretch your legs, and eat in restaurants.

It isn’t easy to prebook the buses online without a Turkish card or phone number but it can be done if you really try your best. We were able to book a bus with “ MetroTurizm “, but only after translating the entire website into English. Somehow their English version of the website wasn’t allowing bus bookings at that time.

Ferries are also a great option for traveling in and around Istanbul, Izmir, and from incredible cities like Bodrum and Marmaris to the Greek islands.

Hot Air Balloon Ride in Turkey

The most beautiful place on earth where you can enjoy a hot air balloon ride is right here in Turkey . It is in a mystical fairy land called Cappadocia , which looks like it belongs on another planet. Cappadocia’s landscape looks surreal, and it looks it is out of a science fiction movie like Star Wars.

There are fairy chimneys and caves everywhere in Cappadocia. People still live in these caves and many have been transformed into spectacular hotels. Right here, you can enjoy a hot air balloon ride to experience the most magical sunrise.

Cappadocia is massive and has around 10 villages that are all unique in their own way. One can get a little confused about where to go. The most popular place in Cappadocia for a hot air balloon ride is Göreme. Be sure to read about Cappadocia on our website – Hot air balloon experience in Cappadocia , staying in a cave hotel in Göreme , and Cappadocia’s Instagram-worthy spots .

Recommended Itinerary for Turkey

It is no secret that there are lots of places to visit, lots of things to do, and lots of things to eat in Turkey!  If you want to visit this glorious country, but don’t know where to start, there is a great 10-day itinerary on this website, which covers the most attractive places you can visit in Turkey. However, if you want to spend more time in Turkey to understand the culture better and explore all around it quickly, here is a two-week itinerary of Turkey!

Day 1 and 2 – Istanbul

Istanbul is mostly famous for its bridge that brings together Asia and Europe, mosques, tulips, seagulls, and Turkish bagels. But the city also has a great history dating back to 660 before Christ, the Roman empire, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empire. If you want to check out the historical monuments on your first day, you can start exploring Istanbul from Sultanahmet Square, where you can find Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, Sultanahmet Mosque, and Basilica Cistern. 

On your second day, you can shop at the Spice Bazaar aka Mısır Çarşısı, which is one of the largest bazaars in Istanbul. Here, you can buy spices, Turkish delights, jewelry, souvenirs, dried fruits, and nuts. The Grand Bazaar, on the other hand, is the oldest and largest bazaar in the world with 4,000 shops and 350,000 visitors a day! 

Day 3 and 4 – Bursa

Bursa was the first capital city of the Ottoman Empire. But here is not only known for its history, but also its silk, ski resorts, and thermal baths made here a must-visit city. Due to its location near an extinct volcano called Uludağ mountain, Bursa has thermal baths with mineral-rich waters.

If you are visiting Bursa, you should experience the traditional thermal Turkish bath, since it is one of a kind! The mineral water boils up from below to comfort you and nurture your skin! As a tradition, you should get the best rubdown (kese) to get rid of the dead skin cells and a massage just to relax your muscles.

Day 5 – Izmir and Ephesus (Efes)

Izmir is blessed with amazing beaches, gorgeous nature, and of course, ancient places like Unesco World Heritage Site listed Efes! 

While in Ephesus, you can check out many historic gates and temples, but the most impressive ones are definitely the Temple of Artemis and the Library of Celsus. But if you enter Ephesus from the south entrance, you will see its world-famous theatre. This theatre not only witnessed history but also hosted many amazing performances by Elton John, Ray Charles, Jethro Tull, and many more!

Day 6 and 7 – Bodrum

With its pure white buildings with Saxon blue doors, its amazing seacoast, and gorgeous bougainvillea flowers, Bodrum is definitely a must-visit city! This old fishing town is located on the coast of the astoundingly clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea and also hosts the ancient city of Halicarnassus, which is said to be one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World!

The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus has an ancient tomb, which was built between 353 and 350 BC! Here, you can also check out the Myndos Gate, which was built under the reign of King Mausolus. This gate witnessed the greatest battles during the siege of the city by Alexander the Great.

Day 8 and 9 – Fethiye

With its breathtaking marina, amazing nightlife , and otherworldly sea, Fethiye is the only city in the world, where you’ll find sarcophaguses on the streets!  Here, you can swim in the Dead Sea/Blue Lagoon, and also do lounging, parasailing, paragliding, canoeing, and many more! The world-famous beach of Fethiye and its blue lagoon, Ölüdeniz, is known for its shades of turquoise and aquamarine, and it is officially awarded as a Blue Flag beach.  

On your second day, you can hike the ancient Lycian Way to check out the amazing views of the sea and the mountains. You also have to check out the gorgeous Butterfly Valley! This valley’s name comes from the endemic butterflies that live near the waterfalls on the canyon wall. From the top of this valley, the view of the bay is just breathtaking.

Day 10 and 11 – Antalya

When you first hear Antalya, you might think of beautiful beaches, a bright sun, and 5-star hotels. But Antalya also offers gorgeous ancient cities and sights! On your first day, you have to check out Aspendos, which is an ancient Greco-Roman city in Serik. Aspendos has huge fame with its breathtaking Roman theatre, the best-preserved theatre in Turkey. The theater has a seating capacity of 20,000 people, and it is still used for concerts. 

For your second day, you can visit the Konyaaltı, which has a pebble beach with amazing turquoise waters. Here you can also paraglide and enjoy many water sports. Or around 60 km away, you can visit the sandy Lara Beach, which is known for its curative sands for the ones with rheumatism problems!

Day 12 and 13 – Pamukkale

With its mineral-rich hot springs and its ancient Greco-Roman city, Pamukkale is a natural site, located in Denizli. Pamukkale literally means cotton castle in Turkish, which suits its amazing calcium-rich springs that shaped its snow-white limestones over the centuries perfectly. But this Unesco World Heritage site is not only popular for its natural pools but also its holy ancient city of Hierapolis!

On your second day, you have to check out this Greco-Roman city. Hierapolis was founded as a thermal spa early in the 2nd century BCE. After the archeological diggings, many significant structures like gorgeous Byzantine gates, a theatre, temples, thermal baths, and an extensive necropolis came to light.

Day 14 and 15 – Cappadocia

With its fairy chimneys, amazing nature, and fun hot air balloon activities, Cappadocia offers a great time for its visitors. Being on the Unesco World Heritage List, with its fairytale-looking landscapes with fairy chimneys, pigeon houses, orchards, and vineyards, it is surreal to fly over the beautiful valley and have the most romantic time while gazing at the sunset!

On your second day, you should visit the Ihlara Valley, which is a 16 km long valley that is home for 105 ancient churches! This unique valley’s honeycombed churches were built by Cappadocian Greeks. It is truly a magical place to wander around while listening to the peaceful river sounds.

What to Eat in Turkey?

Turkish cuisine is one of the most diverse and famous cuisines in the entire World. You may have eaten Turkish dishes before, but there are some must-taste dishes that you shouldn’t miss while visiting Turkey!

• As the main dish, you can have Iskender Kebab , Şiş (Shish) Kebab , Mantı , Etli Ekmek , or if you are vegetarian, you can have Meze or street food like Kumpir . 
• Iskender Kebab is a traditional Döner kebab that is served with yogurt a warm tomato sauce and melted butter over pieces of thinly sliced lamb meat and pide. 

• Şiş (Shish) Kebab , on the other hand, is grilled chicken, beef, or lamb on a skewer, served with rice, salad, and fries. 
• If you crave carbs, you should try Mantı aka Turkish Ravioli! Mantı is little a handmade dumplings filled with ground lamb or beef, topped with creamy yogurt and melted butter tomato paste sauce. Or Etli Ekmek, which is a long and thin piece of flatbread, topped with meat and cheese. 
• If you are a vegetarian, you will love Etli Ekme because you can choose your own toppings to “vegan-ize” it. 
• As a lighter dinner option, you can have Meze , which actually consists of a small selection of dishes commonly served with drinks or before a meal. You can either just eat Meze, or you can also order a main dish with them. Turkish people love eating Meze while drinking Rakı , which is a traditional alcoholic beverage. 
• Traditional Turkish Mezes are Cacık, which is yogurt with herbs and cucumber, hummus, and butter, and Dolma, which is rice-stuffed vine leaves, eggplant salad, Feta cheese and all served with a warm pide. Pide is a flatbread which is kind of like a pizza, but is much better. It is a typical Turkish comfort food.  

• Lastly , Kumpir is actually a giant baked potato, which is cut down the middle and served with butter, cheese, and various toppings that you choose. As a dessert, you can have World-famous Baklava, and of course Turkish delight.
• Turkish cuisine is very flavourful and best complemented with local alcoholic beverages. You can have some Turkish wines including Kavaklidere Yakut (Bogazkere – Okuzgozu), Merlot, and Vinkara. 

The national drink, Rakı, is a must if you want to have an authentic Turkish food experience. It is a spirit, distilled from grapes and made with aniseed. When Rakı is mixed with water and ice, its color changes from transparent to white, which is why it is also called lion’s milk.

Ramadan in Turkey

Ramadan is called Ramazan in Turkey. It is important to know about this because it is a month-long fasting time, that ends with Eid ul-Fitr. During this time, the locals do not eat or even drink anything from the time the sun rises to the time it sets; they only eat after the sunset.

If you’re in a smaller part of Turkey during Ramadan, you should know that some restaurants will be shut during the day, and it is considered inappropriate you eat in front of those who are fasting. Although in touristy places like Istanbul’s Sultanahmet Square, you will easily find a bite to eat. 

The dates for Ramazan for the next year are the Evening of Sun, Mar 10, 2024 – Tue, Apr 9, 2024. 

What to Wear in Turkey?

No, all Turkish people don’t dress conservatively. Somehow the country is split where one-half of the people wear conservative attire while the other half wear whatever they want and don’t mind showing some skin. Don’t stand out as a tourist, but try to blend in.

You can wear pretty much anything you want in Turkey, depending on the weather. During summer, light cotton pants, T-shirts, and flip-flops are the most common clothes to wear. Depending on the location, you can also wear shorts.

During Spring and Fall, you should bring a warm jacket/windbreaker because the weather is rainy, and it is chilly at night. And during winter, you better pack your sweaters because it snows almost everywhere in Turkey. For the beach, you can basically wear anything you want. Most Turkish women love sunbathing in their bikinis. 

If you are planning to visit mosques and churches, you should not wear any shorts or sleeveless tops. Women should also cover their hair. And don’t forget to bring socks since most of the mosques have carpet floors, and walking with your shoes on a carpet (or inside the house) is not acceptable for Turkish people. Overall, modesty is very appreciated in Turkey. If you want to avoid some looks while walking in the city, try to dress up on the conservative side.

About Turkish Hamams

Turkey might be known for its amazing beaches, and historical places, but this country is also blessed with more than 1,000 thermal springs. These mineral-rich springs have also healing properties, which is the reason why they attract many tourists throughout the year. 

You will find lots of Traditional Turkish Bath places which are called Hamam anywhere you visit in Turkey. If you want to get rid of all the dead skin cells from your body, you can visit the Hamam of your choice. But there are a couple of things to know! 

For example, every Hamam has two sections, one for women and one for men. This means that at most of the Hamams, you can’t get scrubbed down with your significant other. 

Keep in mind that, Hamams are HOT. If you have any lung or heart problems, ask your doctors for permission beforehand.

If you are visiting a Hamam, don’t forget to bring your bathing suit and some clean sandals. 

When you enter the Hamam, you will see an amazing interior and five to six taps of water with beautiful sinks underneath. In the middle, there will be a big stone which is called göbektaşı. 

If you want to be rubbed down by a professional, he or she (depending on your gender) will come and rub you there. Before the rubbing, you need to be inside the Hamam for at least 15 minutes. Afterward, they will first soak your body with warm water, otherwise, the dirt won’t come off. 

After washing up, you will receive a massage, and later you will get rubbed with an oriental washcloth, which is called kese. Finally, you will receive another soapy wash, followed by a rinsing session with cold water. 

After the whole experience, don’t forget to tip your attendant. PS. You need to wash your private parts yourself. Most of the Hamams, people inside are butt naked, but it doesn’t mean that you also have to be. Also, bring your own soap and shampoo if you are allergic, and don’t forget to remove your makeup because it will get ruined.

Etiquette for Visiting Mosques

One of the most beautiful experiences in Turkey is listening to the unmissable call of prayer 5 times a day from a nearby mosque. There’s something calming and soothing about this sound. Of course, you should try to expand this experience by visiting a mosque. Please don’t be stupid enough to mimic this sound of prayer, even if you’re in a hostel and are sitting with backpackers. 

Dress conservatively if you’re visiting a mosque. Cover your legs, arms, and shoulders – this is for both men and women. In most of the mosques, you will be able to pick up a scarf to cover your head on your way in. Photograph the architecture by all means, but look out for “photography allowed” signs before you do. Do not take the liberty of photographing the locals in prayer without their permission.

Just like many places of worship all over the world, you will need to remove your shoes at the entry point so wear something that can be easily removed. 

Quick Tips for Solo Women Travelers

Traveling to any new country as a solo woman traveler can be overwhelming but at the same time, liberating. Turkey is an amazing country and is an excellent destination for a solo woman traveler.

We have mentioned this before in this article, but it is time to reiterate – try to blend in. Dress like locals and don’t let your outfit or actions scream “tourist”. Be careful of your surroundings at all times and listen to your gut. If a place or a situation doesn’t feel safe for any reason, then get out. Make friends with other women travelers that you meet, share stories, and stay connected. 

Did follow our travel tips for Turkey?

Tag  @drifterplanet  on Instagram and hashtag it  #drifterplanet . We will be happy to share your journey with our audience.

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Hello Travelers!

Namaste, Guten Tag! I'm Sonal from India, living in Germany and exploring Europe. I've been writing about my travels since 2015. I often travel alone (and sometimes with family of 3).

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Turkey travel tips — 13+ dos and don’ts & what to know before visiting turkey.

Turkey is one of the most popular destinations for tourists today. Your trip will be perfect if you avoid doing the following 13+ things while traveling to Turkey. So, what to know before visiting Turkey, what not to do in Turkey and what to know before traveling to Turkey? Let’s check out our Turkey travel tips, Turkey travel etiquette and Turkey travel advice with 14 things to know before traveling to Turkey, things to know before visiting Turkey including dos and don’ts in Turkey in general as well as dos and don’ts in Istanbul in particular! Okay, let’s get started! We’ll find these things out together!

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• What should I avoid in Turkey — 10 things not to do in Turkey & do and don’ts in Turkey
• Top beaches in Turkey — 17+ most beautiful & best beaches in Turkey

What to know before visiting Turkey: Wear shoes when entering the mosque

If you visit a mosque, remember to take off your shoes before entering the building. Also note that you shouldn’t wear shorts, as this is thought to be inappropriate. If you are lucky enough to visit a Turkish house, check the entrance for shoe storage and then put your shoes in the right place.

Dos and don’ts in Turkey: Consume food and drink in public places when traveling during Ramadan

Ramadan is a Muslim holiday that lasts about a month. During this time, people usually go on a vegetarian diet every day for 30 days. Muslims aren’t supposed to eat or drink anything between sunrise and sunset.

If you travel to Turkey during the month of Ramadan, you shouldn’t eat or drink in public or offer anything to a Muslim during the day.

Turkey travel advice: Walk in front of a praying person

According to the traditional conception of Muslims, if you precede a person who is praying, their prayers will not be counted. This becomes even more true when you visit a mosque. Therefore, be extremely cautious when walking in these places.

Turkey travel tips: Wear inappropriate costumes

When you travel to Turkey, remember to bring some discreet clothes. Both men and women should consider leaving their shorts at home. As you get away from big cities, you will likely see Muslims looking at you strangely if you’re wearing unusual attire.

What not to do in Turkey: Forget to learn a few Turkish words before traveling

Most people living in Turkey do not speak English (like many people in the United States do not speak Turkish). So if you’re going to visit this country, learn a few basic words and phrases to communicate more effectively.

What to know before traveling to Turkey: Practice body language when visiting Turkey

In Turkey, your nod will be meaningless or confusing. If you want to signal “yes” or “agree” to someone, only nod once. Otherwise, if you want to say “no” or “disagree,” lift your chin, raise your eyebrows and press your tongue slightly.

Things to know before traveling to Turkey: Fail to be concerned with your behaviors in all circumstances

One of the things not to do in Turkey is failing to pay attention to one’s behavior. Not only because it’s a cultural norm of the Turks but remember that you represent your country, so be careful in all actions. You’d better learn some Turkish such as “please” and “thank you” before traveling to Turkey!

Be offended when the Turks only talk to your companions who are male

If you are a woman visiting Turkey with your significant other or friends, you will find that Turkish men only speak to your male companion.

This is something that happens very commonly in the countryside. You shouldn’t be offended or have bad feelings for them. The reason is they’re trying to protect your virtue politely in their traditional style.

Things to know before visiting Turkey: Enter a mosque dressed in sexy outfits

The historic mosques of Turkey, such as the Blue Mosque or Yeni Cami, are not only tourist attractions but also places where devotees come to pray. To show your respect in these sacred locations, say no to wearing sexy clothes.

Indeed, you should prepare a sweater to cover your shoulders or arms. At the same time, you should avoid wearing miniskirts and shorts. You will feel comfortable when mingling yourself into the surrounding with discreet and respectful outfits.

Dos and don’ts in Istanbul: Get on a taxi without a logo

Turkish taxi drivers are pretty fond of separating tourists by taking detour routes or using a faulty meter for extra fares. To keep yourself from this kind of situation, you should choose taxis that offer a certain price.

You can distinguish between trustworthy and rogue taxis by the logos on the doors. This will show you that the cab is working under a certain brand instead of a fishy business. The advice is to download the BiTaksi app to book a reliable ride from anywhere.

What to know before visiting Turkey: Only go shopping at shopping malls

Going to shopping malls is quite a waste when traveling to Turkey. You can go to the markets to discover great things, from the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul to the Kemeraltı Market in Izmir.

You’ll find more unique handmade products, clothing, and accessories than any of the brand stores located at shopping malls.

Dos and don’ts in Turkey: Focus only on tourist areas

It would be regrettable to travel to Turkey and only visit the central tourist areas. While many people only visit Istanbul, locals usually recommend going to other unpopular places in the city.

Take a day or two to visit the main attractions, then spend your time researching and exploring the surrounding local areas. There are a lot of exciting things here, which will let you have an awesome experience of Turkey.

Show off your wealth

There are only a few areas in Turkey where you can comfortably show off your wealth. For example, wealthy neighborhoods in big cities like Istanbul or Ankara. However, it’s better to avoid flaunting your money in smaller cities or rural areas because this will easily make you a target for scams.

Though Turkish tourism has experienced a sharp decline in sales in recent years, the beautiful country situated across two continents still has new features that attract tourists globally. The historical sites, enchanting sceneries, delicious food, and cultural festivals imbued with national identity will give visitors the most beautiful memories in Turkey.

If you consider Turkey as your next vacation, schedule your trip now! This country won’t let you down. Above are a few things not to do when traveling to Turkey for your reference. Hopefully, these tips will help you have a wonderful and memorable journey.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Istanbul you can refer to

• Istanbul Welcome Card
• Hagia Sophia Introduction Tour with Audio Guide
• Istanbul Classics Tour
• Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque Small Group Tour
• Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, & Basilica Cistern Combo Tour in Istanbul
• Istanbul Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
• Hop-on Hop-off Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise
• 4G SIM Card (MY Delivery) for Turkey from joytel2u
• Istanbul Museum Pass
• [Sale] Sea Life Aquarium Ticket in Istanbul
• Round Trip Ferry Tickets between Prince’s Islands and Istanbul
• Princes’ Island Full Day Tour from Istanbul
• Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise Tour
• Istanbul: Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show
• Istanbul: Bosphorus Music and Dinner Cruise w/ Private Table
• Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise with Audio App
• Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour
• Best of Istanbul in 1 Day
• Istanbul: Topkapi Palace Guided Tour and Skip The Line
• Istanbul: Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on a Luxurious Yacht
• Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

Are you looking for more top things to do in Istanbul : Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And Istanbul travel guide and Turkey travel guide here .

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Turkey Travel Tips: 21 Things to Know Before you Go

Turkey which officially changed its name to Türkiye (pronounced Tur -kee-aa) is a dream destination.  Whether you’re on the hunt for an exotic adventure or a history buff searching for ancient ruins and remains of the Ottoman Empire, there is something for everyone in this fascinating country.  With that being said, there are a few Turkey travel tips to know before you start packing your bags.

In this article, I’ll go over 21 things to know before going to Turkey that will ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.  Plus at the end of the post, I’ll link any useful guides that will aid you in planning the best trip possible.

For the purpose of this article I will continue to call Türkiye, Turkey as that’s how most still refer to the country as and how this post will get found on google.

For full transparency,  I have sprinkled some affiliate links in this post which gives me a small commission at no extra cost to you if you decided to make a purchase. As always, I would never recommend a product or service that I didn't truely believe in. If you find this post useful, you can also treat Jess to a cup coffee by clicking the icon on the bottom of the page. This will allow me to continue to create more content for you to enjoy ☕️. 

Table of Contents

Turkey Travel Tips Quick List

• Credit Cards are widely accepted.
• ATM’s
• The okay sign 👌 is offensive and means f* you.
• People greet each other with kissing twice on the cheek.
• Tea is a sign of hospitality.
• Remove your shoes before entering a home.
• Pack a Universal Adapter
• You will probably need a Visa  before you can enter the country.
• Turkey does not have lay down seats for overnight buses which make for a miserable trip.
• Flights within Turkey  are affordable and efficient.
• Book tickets for riding a hot air balloon in Cappadocia in advance.
• It cost to use the public restrooms.
• Renting a car is cheap and roads are well maintained and easy to drive on.
• Cappadocia is best explored with your own set of wheels.
• The food is delicious!
• Women must wear hijab’s on their heads when entering mosques.
• Budget – it’s extremely reasonable and cheap to travel Turkey.
• Purchase Travel insurance  before you go
• Professional taxis always have meters running in the rear view mirror.
• Uber is available in Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir only.
• There’s more to turkey than Istanbul and Cappadocia.

Useful Apps for Turkey

I’d like to mention that the Turkish language is difficult to understand as a foreigner.  Not many people speak English so you’ll be relying on google translate a lot.  A few Turkish phrases go a long way.  These apps below will help you a lot as you travel through Turkey.

Google Translate: Translate English to Turkish. BiTaksi: The Uber  of  Turkey. City Mapper Istanbul:  An app to help you navigate public transportation in Istanbul. Whatsapp:  Talk/text to friends and family anytime you are connected to the internet for free. Metro Turizm: Bus company in Turkey that offers a handy app that translates into English and displays all routes, time schedules and allows you to buy tickets online. Yemeksepeti:  Food delivery app similar to Uber eats. Trail Wallet: Easy to keep track on your expenses if you are traveling Turkey on a budget.

Turkey Travel Tips

1. Credit Cards

Starting off with our first Turkey travel tip is that credit cards are widely accepted .  Turkey has become increasingly accepting of credit cards in the recent years.  Major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, Amex, JCB and Diners Club are widely accepted at most stores, restaurants and hotels throughout the country.

In the bigger cities of Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir we paid most things with credit cards and had no problems.  It is important to note that credit card companies also charge a foreign transaction fee when you use a credit card, which differs by company.

For the smaller towns however, we had a mix of paying with credit cards and cash.  Therefore it is important to carry some cash with you when traveling around Turkey.

For example we rented a car in Cappadocia and they only accepted cash for payment.  I’m not complaining though, that was a sweet deal and I was stoked to have to only pay cash.  There are plenty of ATM’s around which I will talk about in the next point.  All in all, the increased acceptance of credit cards in Turkey makes it easier and more convenient for travelers to make purchases while traveling the country.

2. ATM’s

ATM’s are always clustered together inside towns and cities.  In the United States, you can find an ATM everywhere…on the street, inside a gas station, etc.  In Turkey all the ATM’s can be found in the same place.  In larger cities there will be multiple clusters but this makes it easy to find an ATM.

ATM’s in Turkey can be accessed by most debit or credit cards.  Withdrawal limits are typically between 500 and 1000 Turkish Lira per day.  Again, this may vary depending on your issuing bank.

3. The okay sign 👌 is Offensive 

This Turkey travel tip is a pretty important one because if you didn’t realize, it might get your into some trouble.  The okay sign 👌, which has been universally accepted as a symbol of approval, is considered a sign on offense in Turkey and other countries in the region for that matter.

The sign in Turkey is now interpreted as a crude way of saying F*ck you.  This is because in Turkey the sign resembles an insult which is directed at the forehead,  As a result, it is important to be aware of this cultural difference of traveling to Turkey and to be careful and avoid using the sign in order to bypass any misunderstandings.

4. People Greet Each Other with Kissing Twice on the Cheek

In Turkey, kissing twice on the cheek is a traditional way of greeting someone.  This is especially popular among family and friends, as it is viewed as a sign of respect, warmth and affection.  The kiss is not meant to be a romantic one, but rather it is a sign of respect and friendship.

5. Tea is a Sign of Hospitality

Tea is a sign of hospitality in Turkey.  It is an essential part of the culture and is seen as an offering of friendship and respect.  To show hospitality in Turkey, it is customary to offer tea as soon as a person enters the home or office.  It is seen as a gesture of welcome and is often accompanied by other treats such as Turkish Delight or fresh fruit.

Tea itself is usually served in small, tulip-shaped glasses known as fincan and is brewed from loose black tea leaves.  It is sweetened with sugar cubes or a combination of sugar and honey.

We were offered tea many times upon entering hotels and stores.  In fact when we landed in Turkey, our first store we entered in Ankara when we were searching for a a hijab for me to wear (more on hijabs later in the post), the father of the family who ran the store offered us tea.  It was a great introduction to the Turkish culture and started our Turkey travels off on a high note.

Get your Carry-On-Packing Guide Checklist

6. remove your shoes before entering a home.

In Turkey, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering a home.  This is to ensure that dirt and debris is not tracked into the home.  This practice has been a part of the culture for centuries and is still widely practiced today.  This is also a common practice in Hawaii where I live when I’m not traveling the world.

7. Pack a Universal Adaptor

Okay so this Turkey travel tip only applies to us Americans (and various other countries) out there.  As a traveler not from Europe visiting Turkey, packing a Universal Adapter is an important part of your travel prep.

You will need to ensure that you have the  right adaptors to charge your electronic devices in the country.  Turkey uses European-style two-pin plugs, with the electricity supply coming in at 220 volts.  This is different from the 110 volts you normally use in the United States.

A universal adapter will enable you to use your devices in Turkey without having to purchase a less than par one outside of the country.  This is one of the best travel accessories for any jet setter as you never know when it will come in handy.

📚 You May Also Enjoy:   30 Useful & Unique Travel Accessories  Best Travel Gadgets for Backpackers Best Gifts for Travel Lovers

8. Turkey Travel Visa

Top Turkey travel tips alert!  If you are from the United States, will need to obtain a visa before arriving in the country.  Most other nationalities can get a visa on arrival.  

Visas can be obtained online, through the Turkish embassy or consulate.  Online visas are the quickest and most-effective way to obtain a visa.   Visas obtained online are only valid for stays of up to 90 days.

I booked our trip to Turkey very last minute…like I was booking our flight to Turkey from London as I was sitting in the airport in Dallas waiting for my flight to Heathrow last minute.

Thus when Joe and I had an 8 hour layover in London before boarding our flight to Ankara, I was applying for our Turkish e-visa.  I honestly didn’t think we were going to get the visas on time without having to pay a fortune.  I applied for our visas, took a 2 hour lounge nap and woke up to a glorious email saying we were approved.  Whew…Don’t stress out like me and apply for an e-visa at the last minute.

Get your Turkey e-visa →

9. Turkey DOES NOT have Lay Down Seats for Overnight Buses

Okay so I had to learn this Turkey travel tip the hard way.  Turkey does not have lay down seats if you book an overnight bus!  Woof.  Traveling by bus overnight in Turkey can be a great way to save money.

However, travelers should be aware that if they book a bus, they will not have the opportunity to recline the seat very far and lay down to rest.  Turkey does not have lay down seats, instead, you will have to make do with regular bus seats that recline only a few inches.

This can make for a long, uncomfortable journey.  If you watch the video posted above, you’ll be able to see the pain and agony during our first and ONLY overnight bus trip from Cappadocia to Pamukkale.  

Turkey has a train system and flights within the country are extremely affordable so if I were you, I’d look into other modes of transportation before committing to an overnight bus journey.  This brings us to our next Turkey travel advice.

🎥 Watch our Turkey Series on YouTube

10. Flights within Turkey are Cheap and Efficient

With its vast network of airports, domestic flights within Turkey are an efficient and affordable way to get around.  The airfare is generally quite low and the flight duration is usually short.

Booking a ticket from let’s say Izmir to Istanbul is the best bang for your buck if you take into consideration time, money and comfotablitiy. Travelers can fly from Istanbul to popular cities like Izmir, Ankara and Antalya in under two hours.

The airports in Turkey are also well-equipped with modern amenities and services.  I’m looking at you #LoungLife travelers.  With low fares, and convenient flight times, domestic flights within Turkey are an excellent way to explore the country.

✈️ Travel Tip:   If you have long layovers and fly often, investing in a Priority Pass will be a life savor.   With the Priority Pass you have access to over 1300 airport experiences worldwide. 

The lounges are quiet, connected spaces to relax or work in, with pre-flight bites, drinks and other added perks that help keep you refreshed and revived.

11. Book Tickets for your Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia in Advance

Chances are if you are traveling to Turkey, you probably are planning a visit to the magical region of Cappadocia.  If this applies to you, do yourself a favor and book tickets for a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia in advance.  This is a great way to ensure that you don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience this bucket list experience.

Cappadocia is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning rocky landscape, fairy chimneys and underground cities.  A hot air balloon ride is the perfect way to take it all in.  Booking tickets in advance also will aid you in finding the best deals.  I wrote an entire post about everything you need to know about riding a hot air balloon in Cappadocia including tips which you can check out below.

🪂 Read Next:   5 things to know before you book a Cappadocia Balloon Tour

12. You Have to Pay to Use Public Restrooms

Public bathrooms in Turkey can be found in most public places, such as train stations, shopping centers and parks.  However, there is usually a fee to use them.

The fee is usually a few Turkish Liras, which is equivalent to a few cents in US dollars.  Although it may seem like a nuisance, the fee is necessary to ensure that the public bathrooms are kept clean and in good condition.  A small price to pay for a much needed service.

13. Renting a Car in Turkey

Renting a car in Turkey offers a great way to explore the country’s many unique, beautiful and remote locations.  The cost of renting a car in Turkey is quite reasonable and you can find great deals on cars from reputable rental companies.  If you are in a small town, you can just ask your reception and things will probably work out for you.

Roads in Turkey are generally well maintained and easy to drive on, making it a great option for those looking for an easy and safe way to explore the country.  The main roads are paved and maintained by the government, while smaller roads may be dirt or gravel but are still usually in good condition.

In Turkey, you drive on the right side of the road as you would in the United States, but crossing intersections on highways felt a bit confusing.  If you are trying to cross the highway, you could accidentally get in the wrong lane of incoming traffic but I’m sure you’ll figure it out.

Rent Your Car Now →

14. Cappadocia is Best Explored with your Own Set of Wheels

Just to piggyback off of the above Turkey travel advice, let me tell you that Cappadocia is best explored with your own set of wheels.  The unique rock formations and other attractions in Cappadocia are spread out over a vast area and unless you visit them on a scheduled tour, public transportation doesn’t work in this part of the country.

Rent a car and explore the countryside of Cappadocia.  There are many hidden gems to discover while driving which you otherwise would not experience on a tour.  With your own set of wheels, you will be able to explore Cappadocia to your heart’s content.

🪂 Cappadocia Travel Guides:   Best Cave Hotels in Cappadocia  Where to Stay in Cappadocia  Best Things to do in Cappadocia 

15. The food is delicious!

Let’s talk about the food.  Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it is also incredibly diverse.  From succulent kebabs to flavorful mezzos, Turkish cuisine is sure to please any palate.

The flavors of the region are a mix of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern, with a hint of European influence.  The most popular dishes include manti (Turkish ravioli) and kofte (meatballs) as well as many different types of flatbreads.

Let us not forget about the vegetarian options of imam bayidi (stuffed eggplant) and ezme (spicy tomato salad).  Alas, the desserts, such as baklava and kunefe.  Whatever you do, don’t miss out on the awesome food!

16. Women’s (and Mens) Wardrobe When Entering Mosques

Women must wear hijab’s on their heads before entering mosques as to demonstrate their respect for the sanctity of the mosque.  Hijab is an Arabic term for a head covering and is a form of modest dress.

As part of the dress code, women must also keep their arms and legs covered.  The purpose of this dress code is to maintain a spiritual and respectful environment within the mosque.

If you are not dressed appropriately before entering the mosque a hijab and wrap skirt will be provided for you.  At some mosques, these items cost money, at others, they are free to use.

Men should also dress modestly when entering mosques and other religious sites, regardless of religion, this is part of the Turkish culture.

17. Turkey Travel Tips Budget

One of the best Turkey travel tips to know before you visit is to have an idea of what you’ll be spending.  Turkey is a great destination for budget travelers.  It offers many attractions and experiences at an extremely reasonable price.  For instance, when I was exploring Istanbul all of its major tourist attractions were free.  This included the Spice Bazaar, the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia and the Grand Bazaar, just to name a few.

Food is also extremely affordable.  Turkish tea will cost about .50 cents and a basic meal at a cafe will cost you less than $5.  Plus if you book a hotel with free breakfast, you’re in for a treat because Turkish breakfast is the best.

Transportation as I mentioned earlier is also extremely affordable.  This includes renting a car, bus tickets, plane fares and taxi rides.  Accommodations will be your biggest expense.  Budget hotels will run you around $30-50 a night.  You can also splurge on hight end resorts for a fraction of the price compared to Western Europe or the United States.

18. Travel Insurance

I know you probably hear travel bloggers preaching about getting travel insurance before you go travel, but there’s a reason.   Travel insurance is an important part of planning any trip!

It is an essential way to protect your finances and provide peace of mind while you are away from home.  Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost or stolen luggage and even airfare to get you back home in case of an emergency.

I had a friend who unfortunately broke her back snowboarding in Australia.  Fortunately for travel insurance, she was able to have her medical bills taken care of and flown back home to the United States with only having to pay the deductible out of pocket.  I use SafetyWing.  It includes medical and trip coverage even for my brief visits back home to Hawaii for up to 30 days.

It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind when traveling in foreign territory.  Check them out and see if there’s a plan for you.

Buy Travel Insurance →

It’s nice to know before you jump in a cab that, professional taxis will always have meters running in the rear view mirror.  This is a great safety measure for both the driver and the customer, ensuring that the fare is fair and that you as the passenger is not overcharged for their journey.

Customers know exactly how much they will be charged and peace of mind knowing that the driver is not trying to take advantage of you by inflating the fare.  A smoother journey for everyone involved.

Now let’s talk about Uber.  Uber is available in Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir only.  I tired using Uber in Izmir and Ankara and had no luck.  I was able to use it in Istanbul and it was actually yellow taxi.  Meaning I used that app and got a ride but it was a yellow taxi that showed up.

Uber wasn’t very convenient as I traveled Turkey but they have BiTaksi  which is the local  Uber  of  Turkey.  Other than that I’d opt for public transportation in the bigger cities such as Istanbul and Ankara (both convenient, easy and affordable) and having your own car for the smaller towns.  Also taxis as I mentioned earlier are safe and reliable.

21. There’s more to Turkey than Istanbul and Cappadocia

Alas, we’ve come to the end of our Turkey travel tips.  Turkey is often known for its vibrant cities, such as Istanbul and stunning landscapes of Cappadocia.  However, these two destinations are only a small part of Turkey’s beauty.

Don’t get me wrong, Istanbul and Cappadocia are amazing destinations and were the highlights of my month long travels through Turkey.  I’m just saying, there is so much more to explore in Turkey.  From ancient ruins and beaches to picturesque villages and natural wanders, the country’s landscape is truly diverse.  Do yourself a favor and explore as much of the country as you can.

Here are a few other highlights to visit in Turkey:

• The Ancient City of Ephesus.
• Coastal city of Antalya for its stunning beaches.
• The Travertines of Pamukkale
• Pergamon Acropolis
• Monastery of Sumela – a monastery built into a side of a cliff.
• Lake Van – Turkey’s largest lake.

☕️ Read More: 16 Epic Places to Visit in Türkiye

In conclusion, those are the best Turkey travel tips to prepare you for a trip of a lifetime.  Check out the guides below for more inspiration and trip planning for your trip to Turkey.

📍Plan your Trip The Ultimate Guide to Turkey 16 Epic Places to Visit in Turkey 21 Tips to Know Before you Travel to Turkey 🗺 How long to travel Turkey?   2 Weeks to hit the highlights, 4 Weeks to really immerce yourself. 🛂 Visas: Get your E-Visa ☔️ Best Time to Visit:  April, May, September and October are the best months to travel Turkey. 💰 Average Daily Budget:  Expect to pay 30-50 USD’s a day for basic accommodations, sit down meals at a cafe and entrance fees. ⛺️ Turkey accommodation Guides Where to Stay in Ankara Where to Stay in Cappadocia 17 Cave Hotels in Cappadocia Where to Stay in Izmir 🪂 Highlights Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia Exploring Ephesus Uchisar Castle Discovering Istanbul Pamukkale Cotton Castle Pergamon Ruins Magical Cappadocia  The Coastal City of Izmir Wander the Capital of Ankara Antalya 🧳 What to Pack : What to Pack for Türkiye 🎥 Watch our Turkey Series on YouTube 📧 Get on my Email list to see what I’m up to and all the best travel content!

 More Turkey Travel Guides ↓

Best Things to do in Pamukkale & Hierapolis

Beypazari – Ankara’s Best Day Trip

Goreme Open-Air Museum in Cappadocia

Urla – A Charming Seaside Town

Enjoy this Post?!?! Pin in for Later ↓

hi. mosques are mosques – not temples. the words are not interchangeable, which may have been what you were trying to do with one of your subject headlines. think of it this way – if you are describing buddhist temples in Thailand… the headline wouldn’t be “women’ wardrobe for entering mosques.”

also – guys – you should dress modestly when entering mosques and other religious sites, regardless of religion. that is part of turkish culture.

Thanks for your comment. I’ve corrected my article. I appreciate you taking the time to teach instead of spew hate.

Your article provided a lot of food for thought. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

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The 8 Best Turkey Tours For Unforgettable Adventures That Are Achievable & Affordable!

Posted on Last updated: October 13, 2023

Categories Tours , Middle East , Turkey

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

Oh! Turkey is a mysterious country straddling two continents and standing as an adventurer’s paradise that never fails to enthrall travelers with its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural wonder; located in Europe and Asia, bordered by eight countries and surrounded by the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Black Seas.

From the bustling city of Istanbul, with its ancient mosques, bazaars, and palaces, to the remote mountain villages of Eastern Turkey, each with its own distinct culture and traditions, Turkey has proven to be a miraculous country starting from its location to the many landmarks and activities you can experience as an adventurer seeking thrills in every step of your journey.

In this article, we will discuss the six best tours to discover Turkey with ease, bringing unique, highly-rated tours offered by top-notch tour operators in Turkey. But before we get to that, let’s get deeper into what this unique country has to offer. 

One fascinating aspect of Turkey’s history that will amaze you is that it was once the seat of the powerful Ottoman Empire, which ruled over much of Europe, Asia, and Africa for over 6 centuries.

Many Ottoman palaces, mosques, and other cultural landmarks were constructed in Turkey during this period, and they still stand today as a testament to the country’s glorious past. Wow! We bet you didn’t know about that history and even more that you will discover as you continue reading. 

Ahha! For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Turkey offers many thrilling activities, from hot air balloon rides over the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia to paragliding over the turquoise waters of Oludeniz Beach.

The country’s rugged mountains and stunning coastlines also provide endless opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and water sports such as surfing, kiteboarding, and scuba diving. So, your encounter gets even more interesting if you are both a history enthusiast and a fierce adventurer who wishes to try all daring activities. 

But Turkey is not just for thrill-seekers; it is also a land of unparalleled beauty and serenity where one can find so much peace and tranquillity. Imagine sipping tea in a traditional tea garden in the historic city of Ankara; yeah!

Drinking freshly made tea right from the source. You will feel the obvious difference through every sip. Taking a stroll through the peaceful forests and meadows of the Black Sea region will have such a soothing effect on the heart as you feel the wondrous work of nature and are inspired every step of the way. 

To truly make the most of your adventure in Turkey, it is highly recommended to join a group tour, as we have been advocating for in all our articles. This way, you can share your experiences with like-minded travelers and make lasting memories together that you will live to remember for ages after that unique experience has long passed.

And heck! You can make new friends too. You don’t have to worry about anything as tour operators in Turkey offer a range of affordable and well-planned tours, taking care of everything from accommodation to transportation and sightseeing and even your food. Isn’t that nice?

Here are the six best tours to easily discover Turkey, carefully selected from the best tour operators in the country; yep! From the selected few who offer amazing services to their clients. Whether you want to explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus, witness the surreal beauty of Pamukkale’s hot springs, or experience the vibrant culture of Istanbul, these tours have got you covered for your incredible adventure. Let’s dive in.

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Wonders of Turkey

Anatolian civilizations | 10 days, absolute turkey, best of turkey- 10 days, essential turkey, ciconia exclusive journeys.

This tour company takes pride in providing bespoke, handcrafted trips that take visitors beyond the conventional tourist circuits and provide unique insights into the local cultures of their destination, allowing their travelers to have a taste of what it’s like to be in Turkey. Ciconia’s vacations are intended to create lifelong memories by emphasizing unique encounters that highlight the best of each destination.

Their Exclusive Journeys provide small group tours with a maximum of 16 people, providing a more intimate and personalized experience. Ciconia ensures that every detail is personalized to the individual traveler’s needs and tastes by taking care of all the vital elements of travel, from premium hotels to local professional guides.

The adventure begins with a drive to the famous shores of Gallipoli. You pass through picturesque countryside, stopping at the charming village of Kesan for a mouth-watering meal. Arriving in Gallipoli in the afternoon, you pay tribute to the fallen Turkish and Australian soldiers who fought here during World War 1. The now-green battlefields and important historical sites, such as Anzac Cove, Lone Pine, and Chunuk Bair, leave you awe-struck.

In the morning, you will visit the ancient city of Troy, where you will wonder at the ruins of this once-proud city with a particular position in mythology and history. With its Asklepion medical center ruins and healing springs, this Roman healing center leaves you feeling rejuvenated and yearning for more adventure as your vitality replenishes. Izmir, a seaside metropolis, welcomes you with open arms, where you can immerse yourself in Turkish seafood culture by eating freshly cooked fish straight from the sea to the sauce!

Traveling through the shallow waters of Calcar, you will witness the stunning view of columns of pearly white travertines unfolding in front of you, giving you unimaginable excitement. Your visit to Pamukkale’s mineral-rich waters and medicinal powers, which have drawn travelers from all over the world for millennia, will show you a glimpse of nature’s power.

Your journey will take you to Konya, home of the famous whirling dervishes, where you may unwind over a yummy dinner at your hotel and reminisce about your favorite discoveries you have gathered during your adventurous day.

This tour takes a group of 20 persons aged 18 to 90 years old and costs $1,781 per person for ten days of lodging, food, and transportation. It is suitable for families, extremely adventurous, and fully guided.

Eskapas has devoted its efforts and abilities to one раssiоn for more than 30 years. In a continuously changing market, they are making new advancements every year to provide everyone the best possible travel experience regardless of their travel style and taste. 

Eskapas strives to meet each client’s expectations based on their habits and way of life and is committed to carrying out this mission with ethics and responsibility. Skараs was a nominee from Turkey for 2020, 27th World Trаvеl Awаrds in the Leading Tоur Oреrаtоr category, and it was because of their level of professionalism and innovation that got them to that level of global recognition.

On this tour, you will roam through the incredible history of Turkey, where past and present collide in a perfect fusion of culture, cuisine and nature, creating mind-blowing experiences you can’t afford to miss. Trust us! Turkey is an enchanting land of wonder and adventure, with treasures to be found just around every corner. 

You will start your day with a nice breakfast at your hotel before heading to Spice Market for some shopping and free time exploring the market before embarking on a 1.5-hour Bosphorus Cruise tour.

You can feel the soft air as you marvel at the grandeur of Istanbul, with its forest, palaces, and old wooden houses, as the cruise sets sail along the beautiful waters of this historic yet modern region dotted by the remnants of the Ottoman Empire. The thrills and chills of this excursion will soothe and unwind you, preparing you for your next adventure.

But before that, embark on a thrilling culinary journey as you indulge in a scrumptious lunch at a local restaurant, tantalizing your taste buds with a blend of exotic spices and traditional Turkish delicacies; fill up your food craving. From a delicious lunch, you will continue to visit the iconic Sultanahmet Mosque, famously known as the Blue Mosque, with its stunning blue tiles and towering minarets.

Experience the rich cultural history of Istanbul as you stroll through the ancient Hippodrome and marvel at the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia. And for a true taste of Turkish culture, lose yourself in the vibrant and bustling Grand Bazaar, haggling over treasures and souvenirs to take home and remember this one-of-a-kind trip with. 

This vacation takes a group of 20 persons ranging in age from 18 to 90 years old and costs $1,263 per person for ten days of lodging, food, and transportation. It is suitable for families, somewhat adventurous, and fully guided.

G Adventures

G Adventures is one of the world’s best small-group travel companies, offering experiences via the lenses of locals and enabling you to completely lose yourself in the cultures that make your journeys distinctive and exciting. With over 30 years of experience, G Adventures has earned its reputation as the best itinerary planner, giving you the confidence to make reservations and travel easily.

With G Adventures, you can travel the world with the confidence that your journey will be exciting and environmentally responsible. Join the daring travelers who have trusted G Adventures for over thirty years, and experience the world in a way that will alter your life forever.

They truly live up to their brand and are “G for Good.” This fantastic travel company prioritizes its locations, donating as much as possible to the communities that welcome its tourists with open arms and authentic smiles. Your voyage will take you to regions that few visitors see and provide valuable experiences that assist the local economy and preservation of culture.

On this journey, you will visit the palaces and mosques of Istanbul, a city where the East and West meet, each bringing its bucket of influence to the region. You will tour the busy bazaars and become immersed in the lively culture before venturing into the strange as you discover otherworldly Cappadocia. You will feel as if you are in another universe, witnessing weird occurrences, with its unique scenery of fairy chimneys and rock formations. 

You’ll travel through the regional valleys, where you may tour the area by bike or take a hot air balloon flight for a birds-eye perspective of this beautiful site. If you have your cameras with you, you will have a great time taking aerial photos.

The trip becomes even more fascinating when you share dinner with a local family in a nearby village while staying as a guest of a local family. You’re about to spend a day “living like a local.”  After a relaxing night, you will visit the Göreme Open Air Museum to witness the ancient rock-cut churches and murals, as well as one of the region’s many underground cities. This itinerary also includes a visit to Konya, the spiritual home of the Whirling Dervishes, where you may see Rumi’s mausoleum.

Tour Altinkum Travel

Tour Altinkum Travel is a tour operator firm founded to better display Turkey’s historical and cultural characteristics. They provide great services to their clients and make them feel right at home during their travels because they believe that the purpose of travel is to provide the very best to every individual they serve and every establishment with which they deal. They endeavor to provide the finest quality service to their clients while maintaining mutual respect and trust.

They offer a diverse selection of activities, including sightseeing, attractions, culture, and history, as well as adventure, sport, air tours, road trips, and several tailor-made tours. And the good news is that you may easily get the greatest price guarantee and book.

Your tour will begin in Istanbul, where Asia meets Europe and harbors the history of the capitals of 3 different empires; you will be set to witness the rich cultural history buried in this city’s past. Your local guide will take you through the Underground cities of Cappadocia, where you will see rock-cut churches that have been crafted as long as man can remember revealing the craftsmanship of the past.

Bring your camera along to capture the fairy chimneys for your souvenir. With a full-day tour of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks dotted by a touch of Asia and a sprinkle of Europe, you will be left in awe as the trip concludes.

You will first visit Hagia Sophia, where you may learn about the history of the world’s largest building, aside from the Egyptian Pyramids and the Great Wall of China. Your fantastic adventure will lead you to the historic Blue Mosque, erected in 1616 by Ottoman Sultan Ahmet I, with its famous six minarets and beautiful dome. 

Following a tour of Istanbul’s most historical sites, you will visit the Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, to enjoy the alluring scents of various herbs and spices manufactured entirely out of love. Then, take a classic Bosphorus Cruise, which reflects the lovely ancient stately wood homes, stunning marble palaces, fortresses, and little fishing towns that separate Europe and Asia.

The trip takes a group of 12 people ranging in age from 2 to 99 years old and costs $1,539 per person for 10 days of lodging, food, and transportation. It is suitable for families, extremely adventurous, and fully guided.

Europamundo

Europamundo is a tour company that operates in twenty-two different nations throughout Europe and beyond, carrying over 125,000 tourists to the most remote areas of the globe each year. They take pride in introducing you to the world through the places you will see and the people you will meet as you strive to make the most of your experience. 

Europamundo is the world’s only tour operator company that is a member of the United Nations World Travel Organization. (UNWTO). This is the forum where international leaders in tourism gather to discuss the future of travel. Look at who is hanging around with the big dudes. Nha!

On this tour, you will embark on a journey to the stunning city of Istanbul, where the skyline is dotted with minarets and domes that reach toward the heavens as if competing with the clouds. You will stop at the Mosque of Suleyman the Magnificent, the largest mosque in Istanbul, with the intricate design of its ceiling and the ornate details of the walls. Oh! What a beautiful mosque. The stunning architecture will leave you in awe, and you feel reverence as you step inside this holy place.

As your trip continues, you will stop at three noteworthy locations: the walls, the golden horn, and the fishing district, where you can completely lose yourself in the ancient history surrounding the present city.

The city’s walls stand tall, powerful, and proud, a tribute to its strength and perseverance throughout the ages, while the golden horn sparkles in the sunlight, tempting you to take a boat ride and explore its waters. On the other hand, the fishing quarter is a vibrant and energetic environment where fisherman sells their catch of the day to locals and tourists. Will you not get your share of the fresh catch?

And just when you think the adventure is finished, you’ll be whisked away to Taksim, Istanbul’s most local and commercial district, where you may fill your strict appetite with wonderful local food that will make your taste buds scream for more. After your fantastic meal, take a little stroll through the city side and engage with the residents on the ground; this will give you a terrific taste of what Turkish hospitality truly looks like.

The trip involves a group of 50 persons aged 1 to 99 years old and includes lodging, food, and transportation for 9 days for $904 per person. It is also family-friendly and completely guided.

Intrepid Travel

There are plenty of travel firms around the globe, but not many of them recognize the need to travel to protect our planet. Many people refuse to face the challenge of discovering new locations that feed our travel itinerary a positive route for ourselves as tourists and the world. Intrepid Travel is at the cutting edge of encouraging responsible travel, creating mind-blowing experiences, and serving the communities that provide so much to visitors. 

Intrepid Travel combines a fantastic holiday package with giving back – all while being conscious of your time. Even while you’re on holiday, time is your most precious asset. You may be concerned that if you take a group tour, you will spend all of your important time with the group and will not have any time for yourself. With Intrepid Tours, you won’t have to worry about getting time for yourself. No worries, Intrepid Travel is highly sensitive to your own time.

Today, you’ll ride a bus to the coasts of Gallipoli, a place of attraction for many to observe the now-calm waters and lovely environment where such a horrible conflict occurred during World War I. Take in the region’s reverence and tranquillity, and listen to stories of valor and affection that sparkled through the traumas of war.

Your tour will continue to Canakkale, where you will spend the night. Because it is a prominent university town, this city has a young local vibe, so relax on the shoreline of the Dardanelles with a drink or see a local band with some of your trip buddies.

This vacation takes a group of 16 persons aged 18 to 29 years old and costs $889 per person for 11 days of lodging, food, and transportation. It is suitable for families, extremely adventurous, and fully guided.

There you have it, Turkey, a truly unique and culturally appropriate destination for a vacation. We’ve already given you the green light. Choose from one of these carefully curated tours and treat yourself like never before.

If none of these tours work for you in Turkey, please do not worry. There is a wide variety of tour options in the country, and we are confident that there will be something that fits your needs and interests.

Take a look at all the group tours in Turkey now , which you can sort by private or group, maximum sizing, budget, dates and much (much more). The team at TourRadar is also always more than happy to answer any questions, provide further information or assist in any way in finding the perfect tour for you.

Do You Tip In Turkey? How Much & When to Tip

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

This website uses affiliate links. For more information, click here .

Tipping in Turkey is a common practice, but the amount you give usually depends on the situation and the quality of service. Generally, a humble 10% is added to the overall cost, but you may find yourself in some situations where you will want to tip more, but usually not less.

If you’re asking yourself do you tip in Turkey and you’re not sure what to expect from the tipping culture in Turkey, here is a quick guide to tell you when tipping is expected and what the average rate is.

Tipping in Restaurants

Restaurants in Turkey are the most likely places you will be expected to leave a tip. It is customary to leave a tip at restaurants if the service has been good.

However, it is not necessary to tip excessively. The lowest expected amount is around 10% of the total bill. If you enjoyed your experience and had above-and-beyond service or food, then you will not offend anyone by tipping more. Turkey is not a culture where they get offended if you tip too highly, they will appreciate that you thought their service was good.

If there is a service charge included in the bill, then you are not expected to leave an additional tip.

In some restaurants, you may find musicians and entertainers coming around the table. They are playing for tips, so you’ll need to tip them if you allow them to play for you. Usually around $5-$10 USD worth of cash money in Turkish Lira would suffice.

Tipping in Bars and Cafes

In bars and cafés in Turkey, tipping is usually not expected. Of course, if you receive excellent table service and you feel the waiter did a good job, then it’s appreciated.

If you are happy with the service, leaving a small tip or rounding up the price of your order is a nice gesture.

Tipping in Hotels

In some cultures, it’s expected to leave a tip for the housekeeping staff in hotels. In Turkey, it is not expected but it is customary to tip your housekeeper.

In some hotels, an envelope or bag is kept in the room for you to place a tip into, or you might see a “staff tip” box in the reception.

Room attendants, housekeeping and hotel staff do not expect a huge tip, but if you think they have done a good job of making up your room, you can leave $1/$2 USD worth of Lira (TL) in the room for them.

You may also want to offer a small 10% tip if you order room service, and professional porters who carry your suitcase to your room would be happy with $1-$2 tip.

Tipping in Taxis

Tipping in taxis is not necessary in Turkey, but is often appreciated to round up the cab fares if you have received good service. If you are using Uber in Istanbul, you have the option of adding a tip onto your ride at the end after paying the official tariff, but it’s not expected for you to do this.

In some cases, you may hire a taxi driver to serve as a driver for the day, such as in Cappadocia where attractions are hard to get to using public transportation.

In this instance, it’s customary to give your cab drivers a small tip. The recommended tip amount would be 10% of the total amount price you have agreed.

Tipping in HamMams, Spas, and Salons

If you are visiting a Turkish Bath , spa, or salon, then tipping the hamam attendant is appreciated. The extra amount you tip can depend on the service you received, but 10% of the total bill is usually appropriate .

When tipping in salons where you are served by multiple people, remember that your tip is often shared between the staff, so you might want to be a little more generous so they each get a respectable cut. But it’s up to you to decide this.

The general tipping rules in Turkey are you should only tip when you have received a service, and so giving a little extra as gratuities in salons and spas is more to be expected.

Read more : Best Turkish Baths in Istanbul

Tipping in Train Stations/Airports and Bus Drivers

When getting the dolmus minibus or a long distance bus in Turkey, the driver does not expect a tip. If they have done something special to care for your luggage (an unlikely scenario) then you may want to offer a little something.

There are no scenarios in which you would need to tip at the airport or at train stations.

If you ever find yourself hitching hiking, from our experience we found the local Turks won’t accept any money. They will pick you up out of the kindness of their hearts, but it’s always polite to offer something.

Tours ANd Tour Guides

There is only really one area where tipping is expected in Turkey, rather than appreciated, and that’s on guided tours. If you have booked an organized tour that comes with a guide, then most guides will expect a small tip at the end of the experience from each of the tourists on the tour.

Of course, like always, the amount you give is dependent on the quality of the service. Usually, $10 USD per person, per day, is a good base to start with tours.

If you have taken a free walking tour, you might want to give only $5-$10 USD per person since it’s only a couple of hours. Likewise, if you visit a museum or historical site, such as the underground cities in Cappadocia, then you might want to offer up to $10 USD depending on how much you enjoyed the tour.

The driver usually doesn’t expect a tip , but if you think they drove well and took great care of you, then it’s polite to give them a small tip as a token of your gratitude.

Read more: Tours in Cappadocia You Cannot Miss and Best Tours from Istanbul to Cappadocia

What Currency Do You Tip In?

The official currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira, so it is best to tip in the local currency using paper money. USD and Euros are accepted in some parts of Turkey , especially the touristy areas and when booking tours.

Typically, when giving a tip you should tip in Lira because this means the person receiving the tip can spend it without the need to exchange it.

However, if you have run out of Lira notes and are not near an ATM, they might accept your tip in Euros, British Pounds, or USD. But since they have to exchange it for Lira , they might not accept this.

Aside from these currencies, you should always tip in the local currency. Avoid given foreign coins as a tip as they won’t be able to exchange it and it’s therefore worthless to them. If you do tip in a foreign currency to the Turkish Lira, ensure the notes are in good condition and clean.

Tipping in Turkey FAQs

Can you tip using a credit card in turkey.

In most cases, tipping is a cash-only service. In some restaurants when you pay by credit card, it might offer you the option to add a tip during the payment process. However, it’s better to give your tip in cash when you can, as that way you know the tip goes to the server and not into the company.

How Do I Know What Amount to Tip In Turkey?

Working out how much you tip in Lira is always a struggle because the exchange rate is always fluctuating. We always recommend working out how much you want to tip in USD, and then converting it on the day. Otherwise, you could tip 20 Lira in January and be giving $1, and tip the same a year later and be giving $0.50.

Is it Rude Not to Tip in Turkey?

It is considered rude to not leave a tip in a restaurant or for a tour guide, but if you forget to tip your housekeeper or don’t want to leave a tip in a taxi, you won’t cause offense. It’s only considered rude if you don’t leave a tip in a restaurant or do not tip your tour guide.

Final Thoughts On Tipping In Turkey

While tipping in Turkey is a common practice, it is not mandatory , and you should remember that you should only tip if you are satisfied with the service. Tip etiquette in Turkey is not as important as it is in Western countries such as the United States, but it is a great token of your appreciation.

While in some places, tipping is more expected than in others, it is always up to you how much you give, if you want to give at all.

If you are unsure whether or not to tip, as a rule of thumb, it is always best to ask a local to find out what the custom is for that particular establishment.

Remember – tipping is a thank you for good service, not an obligation.

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Sean Lau is a professional travel blogger and writer with adoration for Turkey. Originally from the USA, Sean frequently travels to Turkey to explore every nook and cranny. From bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the tranquil beaches of Antalya, Sean has seen it all. He hopes to share his first-hand knowledge, insider insights, and personal anecdotes to inspire fellow travelers to visit Turkey, especially to his favorite destinations – Istanbul and Cappadocia.

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23 unmissable experiences in Turkey

While many visitors are drawn to Turkey for its southern beaches and inviting coves, those in the know also come for scenic train routes, hikes through cave cities and traditional taverns surrounded by ancient Greek, Roman and Byzantine relics.

1. Hike Cappadocia’s cave cities

This region in central Turkey is an upside-down world: there are as many as 60 subterranean cities, while its terrestrial landscape resembles the interior of a cave system, covered in stalagmite-like rock pillars known as ‘fairy chimneys’. They’re caused by wind erosion but are named for the folkloric belief that they were created by the djinns (genies) who live beneath the ground. The typical image of Cappadocia, adorning coffee cups and postcards, is that of dozens of hot air balloons soaring above the landscape. But the best way to see the fairy chimneys and rock cities is not from the sky, but with both feet on the ground. Go for a hike through the area’s series of interconnected valley trails, and you’ll find the landscape is surprisingly fertile up close — the smell of apricot carries on the breeze, trees ripe with plums and black mulberries may line your path, while rock-cut houses rear up above you on the hillsides. DS

( Why the cave cities of Turkey's Cappadocia are best explored on foot. )

2. Trace an ancient city at Ephesus

There’s no other site in the Mediterranean where the classical world can be imagined as clearly as at Ephesus . This UNESCO-listed ancient city sprawls for around 1,000 acres, edging the village of Selçuk, south of İzmir. Settlement here dates back to 6000 BCE, although the city is chiefly famous for its era as Roman capital of Asia Minor. Today, carriage-rutted stone roads lead visitors to a 25,000 seat Roman theatre, the two-storey facade of the Library of Celsus and a terraced house complex, once home to the city’s wealthy, decorated with frescos and mosaic floors depicting Roman gods, gladiators and floral motifs. JL

3. Bag local crafts in Eski Datça

With its cobbled lanes framed by pink bougainvillea and artisan shops in stone cottages, Eski Datça village encapsulates laid-back Aegean life. A two-hour sail south of Bodrum’s beaches on the Datça Peninsula ferry, the pretty settlement is a popular spot to browse boutiques selling local crafts. Caria Silk is revitalising regional silk-weaving traditions with its hand-loomed, hand-dyed creations, while Elde Sanat offers handmade leather sandals and chunky jewellery. Head to Özlü Datça or Olive Farm for local organic olive oil and almond butter. JL

( Photo story: tombs, turquoise seas and trekking along Turkey's Lycian Way. )

4. Sail the Riviera on a ‘blue voyage’

Where sapphire waters lap uninhabited coves in southwest Turkey, there’s no better way to explore than by gulet — a traditional wooden sailing ship. Small cruises, coined ‘blue voyages’ because of the intense sea colour, allow you to hop between bays, with paddleboarding and snorkelling offered as activities. Travellers can dive into underwater caves around Kaş or swim through the ruins of an ancient Roman bathhouse near Göcek, named after Cleopatra, who’s claimed to have visited. Day trips and week-long charters sail from all major coastal towns, including Bodrum and Antalya — but the most scenic stretch is around Marmaris, where forests cascade down the mountainsides. BY

5. Follow the Lycian Way

Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, Turkey’s first long-distance walking route meanders for 472 miles across the southern Teke Peninsula between Fethiye and Antalya. Offering a different perspective on this popular coastal area, it traverses pine-clad peaks and cliffs, between rural villages and the ruined cities of the Lycian people who prospered here over 1,000 years ago. Most trekkers tackle a three- to five-day section; one of the most scenic starts from the western trailhead at Ölüdeniz and heads across the Seven Capes to the Patara beachfront ruins. JL

6. Paraglide over Ölüdeniz

It’s not surprising that Ölüdeniz is Turkey’s premier tandem paragliding destination. This slice of southwest coast — where waves of green hills pitch downwards to Ölüdeniz Nature Park’s famed blue lagoon, sheltered by a sandy spit — is best appreciated on an aerial descent. Tandem paragliders launch from Baba (8,533ft), which looms over the seafront. For a taste of the views, minus the adrenaline, there’s a cable-car. BY

7. Kitesurf in Akyaka

The coastal town of Akyaka is Turkey’s top spot for kitesurfing . A two-hour drive from Bodrum, its secret is strong, steady thermal winds from May to November. With gusts blowing favourably from sea to shore and kitesurfing schools offering classes, it provides a safe environment that’s perfect for beginners. And there’s more: Akyaka has lively bars, restaurants and yoga retreats still untapped by the international traveller circuit. Follow locals on a night out to Geyik Sayfiye for craft cocktails by award-winning mixologists or dine out in style at summer pop-ups of famed Istanbul restaurants like Rutin and Basta . BY

8. See Turkey’s Yosemite

Few international travellers except keen birders know about Aladağlar National Park. Located in southeast Turkey, roughly 90 miles south of Cappadocia’s Kayseri Airport, it’s a prime area for summer hikes amid dramatic mountain scenery. Trails wind across high pastures, where shepherds graze flocks, and forest-clad slopes lead up to craggy plateaus studded with lakes. Base yourself in the village of Çukurbağ for independent exploration, or arrange a multi-day trek with Cappadocia-based tour operator Middle Earth Travel . JL

9. Seek Mount Nemrut’s stone heads

At sunrise and sunset, travellers scale eastern Turkey’s Mount Nemrut’s summit to find the decapitated stone heads of toppled figures. They’re all that remains of the reign of King Antiochus, who ruled the Commagene kingdom from around 70 to 38 BCE and built the gargantuan statues as a monument to himself. They sit atop his colossal, 165ft-high burial mound. Visit during the day to avoid the crowds. JL

10. Party on the beach in Çeşme

Every summer, local party-goers flock to the Çeşme Peninsula to experience Turkey’s best nightlife. Dip into the scene by reserving a sunbed on the beach at renowned club Before Sunset , where a boho crowd dance the night away to house music. Tarla, a farmhouse turned open-air tiki bar, is another highlight, hosting live acoustic nights. Or visit Open Bar, a locals’ speakeasy that attracts renowned Turkish DJs such as Barış K and Memo Garan. Base yourself at The Stay Warehouse , a converted warehouse with a 24-hour pool and music events in Alaçatı town. From €400 (£336), B & B. BY

11. Explore Turkey by train

Turkey’s rail network remains one of its best-kept travel secrets, offering everything from scenic day trips to long-distance sleepers. Many of the routes connect travel sites across the country and most are immensely affordable. The Roses Express is the premier route for classical history-lovers, running from Izmir to Isparta and stopping at gateway towns so passengers can hop off and visit the ruins of Ephesus, Hierapolis and Sagalassos. There are also many scenic routes showcasing some of the country’s most showstopping sights. The Pamukkale Express deposits travellers at the Hierapolis ruins and travertine terraces of Pamukkale after travelling through the rural heartland of northwest Anatolia, while the Taurus Express, between Konya and Adana, passes steep forested slopes and deep gorges via multiple tunnels and the Varda Viaduct, which featured in the 2012 Bond film Skyfall . In winter, when snow blankets the peaks and high plateaus of northeast Anatolia, the Eastern Express is one of Turkey’s most beautiful journeys, running every day between Ankara and Kars. JL

( 7 incredible train journeys in Turkey. )

12. Feast in Istanbul’s meyhanes

Meyhanes are traditional, lively Turkish taverns that offer extensive menus of unique mezzes — small sharing plates of local seafood and vegetable dishes often accompanied by rakı, the Turkish anise-flavoured spirit. While meyhanes are popular dining spots throughout Turkey, the best are in Istanbul and any food-lover should visit at least one during a trip to the city. In the central neighbourhood of Beyoğlu, Asmalı Cavit is a favourite among regulars who have visited since childhood and still come for the tarama and chargrilled köfte. To catch a good sunset, try Sahil Restaurant, in the old Jewish quarter of Balat, which is known for its onion dolma and seasonal foraged mushroom mezze. Another meyhane not to miss is Giritli, near Hagia Sophia, which offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle in its vine-draped courtyard. For a more romantic evening, there’s Jash in Cihangir, a cosy spot with live accordion music and unique Armenian dishes such as mackerel dolma and topik. Book a room at The Stay Boulevard in the upmarket Nişantaşı district for a well-connected base. From £230, B & B. BY

13. Hop around Istanbul’s islands

Istanbul’s best-kept secret are the Princes’ Islands. Less than an hour by ferry from the city’s main ports, the islands offer an escape from the chaotic city, rich in Greek, Armenian and Jewish heritage — perfect for day-tripping. On Büyükada, the largest island, rent bikes and cycle up to the Greek Orthodox Aya Yorgi Church, admiring historic wooden mansions and the former Prinkipo Greek Orphanage along the way, reputed to be the largest wooden building in Europe and now being restored. The island of Heybeliada, named for its prominent double-peaked hill, offers scenic hikes up Hope Hill to the grandiose Theological School of Halki. Burgazada, the most charming of the islands, is known for its secluded beaches and excellent restaurants; start with speciality coffee at Four Letter Word cafe, before a stroll along Madam Martha Bay, and enjoy seafood at Kalpazankaya Restaurant with arguably the best sunset view in Istanbul. Kınalıada, the smallest of the islands, can be circled in about an hour and is home to Jash Kınalıada restaurant, where Armenian mezze can be enjoyed by the sea. BY

14. Watch oil wrestling

Located in Turkey’s westernmost province, Edirne was the second capital city of the Ottoman Empire and still hosts one of the country’s oldest traditions: the Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival. Every July, burly wrestlers compete to pin each other down on grassy fields, covered in olive oil and dressed only in buffalo-hide shorts. The 2024 festival was the 663rd and featured nearly 900 combatants over three days, alongside concerts by local musicians and traditional dance shows. Edirne’s Old Town district is also a highlight for its Ottoman sites, including the 16th-century Selimiye Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. BY

15. Scale terraces at Pamukkale

Pamukkale’s gleaming white limestone hill makes for arguably the most dramatic entrance to an archaeological site in Turkey . Visitors wade their way through the shallow aquamarine pools that speckle its travertine terraces, their sights set on the ruins of the ancient spa town of Hierapolis at the summit. Once there, they can bathe in the mineral-rich spring waters of the Cleopatra Pool, which first put Hierapolis on the tourist map, in the second century BCE. Those who want to get an early start — and experience the travertines and ruins without the crowds —   should spend the night at the foot of the hill in Pamukkale town. JL

16. Surf the waves of the Black Sea in Ordu

Perşembe, a small town in Ordu province on Turkey's northern coast, has become a prime destination for surfers eager to conquer the waves of the Black Sea. While locals have bodysurfed in these waters for generations, board surfing is still a relatively new activity here. The trend was kickstarted by Deniz Toprak, whose father hails from Perşembe, when he returned from running a surf camp in Sri Lanka to set up Mellow Turkey — a surfing school and hostel that’s introduced the sport to locals and now attracts surfers from around the world. The best season is from June to September, when you can surf without a wetsuit. In autumn, the sea cools and the waves grow larger, while the lush landscape transforms into a stunning backdrop of golden leaves. Many travellers like to linger here, captivated by the beautiful forests that encircle the town and what Deniz describes as Perşembe’s “hygge-like atmosphere”. BY

17. Cycle Turkey's Aegean Coast

Near the Gediz Delta, a third of the way across Turkey’s section of the EuroVelo Cycle Route 8, a flamboyance of flamingos appears overhead. As if the 300-mile journey hugging the Aegean Coast isn’t dramatic enough, the honking birds provide a fiery-pink chevron escort along a corridor that was once the stomping ground of Greek poet Homer and Alexander the Great. Bookended by UNESCO-listed sites, this route across Izmir Province forms one small part of the cross-continent EuroVelo cycleways network. It opened in 2019 and was developed for average cyclists; though it takes four to five days to complete using a combination of quiet streets, bike paths and packed-gravel roads, riders can also tackle it as single day rides. It starts near the ruined city of Pergamon and ends in the ancient city of Ephesus. In between, cyclists pass through vineyards, nature reserves and seaside towns with bazaars and cafe-lined harbours, including Urla, Çeşme and Sığacık. AC

( How to explore Turkey's Aegean coast on two wheels. )

18. Tour Antalya’s historic core

Antalya — gateway city to one of Turkey’s most popular stretches of coast — has long been favoured for its beach. Yet the southern city’s Kaleiçi neighbourhood is awash with history. Enter through the triumphal arch of Hadrian’s Gate, commemorating Emperor Hadrian’s 130 CE visit, and head to the Sultan Alaaddin Camii mosque to admire its painted ceiling — a preserved fragment of its previous life as Panhagia Church in the 19th century. You could also pay a visit to the 13th-century Sefa Hamamı bathhouse for a hammam scrub. Ottoman mansions, all creaky timber and cumba (oriel windows), line Kaleiçi’s lanes and offer boutique-style accommodation — try White Garden Hotel or Tuvana Hotel . JL

19. Stargaze in the highlands

After dark, the skies above the lush yaylalar (highland pastures) of the western Kaçkar Mountains sparkle with thousands of stars. Close to the Black Sea and Turkey’s border with Georgia, these remote hills, surrounded by an amphitheatre of craggy peaks, see little light pollution, making them an unbeatable stargazing destination. One particularly good spot is the long finger of meadow that’s home to the tiny settlement of Pokut Yaylası, straddling a 6,500ft-high ridge. Some of the highland timber houses here have been converted into comfortable guesthouses with attached restaurants — great bases for hiking by day and stargazing by night. With their terraces for taking in the views, Plato’da Mola and Pokut Orion are two of the best options. JL

20. Whirl with dervishes in Konya

The Mevlevis, known to the world as whirling dervishes, are a mystical Islamic order for whom whirling is a meditative prayer practice and also, in recent decades, a cultural heritage performance. Even for non-religious observers, attending a performance is a powerful experience. The skirts of the dervishes are perfumed with frankincense, and their whirling sends its heady scent through the air as the dancers become a blur of spinning tops, all in perfect time yet each one lost in his own ecstatic dance. The tradition started in the 13th century with the mystic and poet Jalal al-Din Rumi, who found inspiration for the act during a trip to Konya, an ancient city in central Turkey. Although performances are also staged in Istanbul and other major Turkish cities, the Mevlevi order’s heartland is still in Konya, making it the best place in the country to experience the whirling. Rumi’s followers whirl throughout the year, but the annual festival of Şeb-i Arûs, which commemorates the poet’s death every December, is a special time to travel to the city. DS

( The best time to see Turkey’s whirling dervishes .)

21. Dig into the farm-to-fork scene in Urla

Urla, once a stopover for Izmir residents heading to Çeşme Peninsula’s beaches, has transformed in the past few years into Turkey’s prime gastronomic destination. Dubbed ‘the Basque country of Turkey’, the small region is famous within Turkey for its high-end dining scene being deeply connected to its farming community. Michelin-starred, farm-to-fork restaurants such as Teruar and OD Urla work closely with local producers to craft hyper-locally sourced, seasonal menus. Another standout restaurant is Vino Locale, highlighting local delicacies like buttery blue-tailed shrimp and meaty artichokes in elaborate dishes. The area is particularly lovely from early spring to late autumn, when the weather is temperate and travellers can take full advantage of the bucolic landscapes where vineyards roll to the sea. BY

( How this tiny rural district became Turkey's unlikely gastronomic star. )

22. Taste-test homegrown Turkish wines

Though not widely known for its vineyards, Turkey is home to some of the earliest winemaking sites in history — and there are winery routes showcasing the country’s best cellar doors, keeping this legacy alive. Coming from Istanbul, the closest wine region lies along the Thrace Vineyard Route (Trakya Bağ Rotası), which brings together 12 producers from the city’s hinterland to the Greek border in Eastern Thrace. Off the coast of Gallipoli in northwest Turkey, travellers can visit the island of Bozcaada, which has been a winemaking hub since the fifth century BCE. Here, it’s possible to tour small-scale vineyards and sample local grape varieties like Karalahna, which make bold, tannic red wines. Further south, an hour’s drive west from Izmir, Urla has become a wine hotspot in the past decade. The Urla Vineyard Route (Urla Bağ Yolu) features eight boutique producers. Don’t miss the Urla Winery, for a tour and tasting of wines including bold and acidic reds made with endemic Urla Karası grapes. BY

23. Eat in the kebab capital of Turkey

Ask anyone in Turkey and they’ll tell you the best kebab — spelled kebap in Turkish — comes from the southeast of the country, in the city of Adana. The secret is the region’s access to grass-fed lambs from the Van province in the east, lots of flavoursome fat trimmings and the expertise of their grill masters. To make a classic Adana kebap, the meat and fat trimmings are minced, seasoned only with salt and hot pepper flakes and hand-pressed around a long steel skewer. Cooked over hot embers, the result is a meat that holds together yet remains tender and juicy with every bite. Traditionally, the dish is served with grilled peppers and tomatoes, a salad of onions, parsley and sumac, and pitta cooked on top of the meat on the grill so that the bread absorbs its juices. Locals recommend Kebapçı Mesut, a 103-year-old family restaurant famous for its kebabs across the country, and İştah Kebap, a hole-in-the-wall shop among the clothing stalls of the open bazaar. BY

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The Ultimate Turkey Packing List

We asked a Turkish tour guide to lay out everything you need to pack for your next trip to Turkey, from Istanbul to Bodrum.

Bags and Accessories

Frequently asked questions.

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Marcus Millan

It’s hard — dare I say, near impossible — to pinpoint the highlights of a trip to Turkey . I’ve been to the country nearly a dozen times and I still find something new and amazing to marvel at each time I go. Foodies will find solace in the unmatched sweet and savory world of Turkish cuisine (for me, nothing beats kahvalti, aka Turkish breakfast). History buffs can check ancient wonders of the world and archaeological excavations off their bucket list. And those who travel to let loose will find no shortage of stunning rooftop bars and clubs to sip rakı into the night.

But it’s not always easy to sort out a packing list when the country has so much to offer — especially if you’re planning to visit multiple regions or have little knowledge on how to efficiently dress for a visit to a place of worship in the morning and rooftop cocktails come sunset. In the beginning, I found it tricky to narrow down exactly what to pack, but I ultimately found my packing list for Turkey was no different from what I would bring to, say, Paris or Rome.

“People might expect Turkey to be a conservative country before coming here — probably because of our proximity to the Middle East — but the country became a secular republic in 1923,” explains Istanbul-based tour guide Ali Faik Anayurt. “Although over 95 percent of the people in Turkey identify as Muslim, the Turkish Republic respects secular values and is far from using religion as a form of governance.”

As a result, Anayurt says modern-day Turkey is a place where diversity, cultural differences, and various ethnic backgrounds coexist with respect. So, when visiting as a tourist, you can plan to dress just like you would in any European country rather than having to stock up on a conservative-leaning wardrobe.

Travel + Leisure / Kaitlyn Mcinnis

Keep in mind that the weather in Turkey varies greatly based on the specific region and time of year. I tend to bring a lot of layers when I visit Turkey in the cooler months. Istanbul is pretty temperate in the fall, for example, but once you head north, you’ll notice the weather cools off quite quickly. The weather in Turkey gets very hot in the summer months no matter where you visit, so bringing along lightweight clothing is key.

Best Lightweight Pants for Men

Patagonia men's terrebonne joggers.

The Patagonia Terrebonne Joggers are an awesome option for traveling in different climates and around cities. These comfy joggers offer a tapered fit that are relatively stylish while also offering enough give and stretch so you can comfortably wear them while doing more strenuous activities, like hiking along the Turkish Riviera or horseback riding in Cappadocia. We love these pants due to their lightweight design — but it also helps that they’re water-resistant, quick-drying, and offer UPF-40 sun protection. We also noticed these pants are surprisingly durable despite the fact that they’re ultra-thin and lightweight.

Best Lightweight Pants for Women

Calia women's truelight cargo pocket jogger.

The CALIA Women's Truelight Cargo Pocket Jogger are our top pick for the best lightweight joggers for women . These pants are incredibly comfortable and stretchy thanks to the lightweight blend of polyester and spandex. We also love that they look and feel like a more put-together version of your typical leggings, so you can easily get away with wearing these around Istanbul, while at the airport, or doing more fitness-inclined activities in the Turkish countryside. It’s also worth noting that these joggers come in 10 different colorways, so you can choose the one that best suits your style.

Best Jacket for Men

Patagonia men’s nano puff jacket.

If you’re heading to the cooler regions of Turkey or planning a trip in the fall or winter, you’ll want to make sure you pack a light jacket. The Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket is a great option you can easily pull out of your suitcase when needed or stuff into your backpack without taking up much space. The classic, quilted design and muted colorway also make this a timeless option that’ll look great in the city; you can just as easily get away with wearing this to dinner in Istanbul or to keep warm while flying over Cappadocia in a hot air balloon.

Best Jacket for Women

Columbia women's switchback iii jacket.

Turkey tends to be pretty warm compared to most places in North America — but if you’re visiting in the fall or winter, you’ll still want to bring a warm, packable jacket in case it gets chilly. The Columbia Women's Switchback III Jacket is a great option to have on hand. It’s lightweight and packable but still protects you from the elements. It even has a built-in hood, which can be a life-saver if you get caught in the wind and rain that can sometimes hit Istanbul for days on end come fall and winter. It’s also very durable and made of long-lasting materials, so you don’t have to be precious about shoving it into your backpack when you don’t need it.

If you plan on visiting any sites of worship, you’ll want to make sure you have comfortable walking shoes that are easy to slip on and slip off in a hurry. “Due to our cultural emphasis on cleanliness and to keep mosques clean in Islamic tradition, you should take off your shoes before entering any mosque,” explains Anayurt. “You can do this before entering the mosque, just before the main entrance on the clean mats. You don't need to take off your socks, but you can bring clean socks to change into if you wish.”

If you’re planning any outdoor adventures — like hopping into a hot air balloon in Cappadocia — you’ll also want to make sure you have comfortable and relatively warm closed-toe shoes. I was incredibly grateful to have warm feet once up in the sky — you really don’t realize how cold a hot air balloon ride is until you’re floating high above the clouds! Staying in the city or heading to the Turkish Riviera? Make sure to have at least one pair of dressy shoes or sandals that will work for dinner out.

Best Walking Shoes for Men

On cloud 5 men's shoe.

If there’s one pair of shoes you bring on your trip to Turkey, make it a comfortable pair of walking shoes like the On Cloud 5. You’re likely going to be walking a lot, sometimes on uneven sidewalks or cobblestones, so the zero-gravity foam sole and additional traction will be extremely welcomed. These shoes are also designed with a breathable and antimicrobial mesh upper, which allows your feet to stay fresh and comfy all day (and you won’t have to worry about any mysterious odors). The understated design also makes it easy to wear these shoes to dinner; you won’t have to change into dress shoes unless you’re going somewhere particularly swanky.

Best Walking Shoes for Women

Nike motiva women's walking shoes.

You’ll never regret packing a good pair of walking shoes, especially when navigating the streets of Istanbul. I tried to get away with wearing ballet flats and loafers but ultimately caved and bought an actual pair of sneakers for days when I knew I would be walking a lot. The Nike Motiva Road Runner Walking Shoe is a great option if you want something that is stylish and on trend but also offers arch support and cushioning. They’re flexible and comfortable to wear for hours and also come in several cool colors.

Best Sandals for Men

Mohinders woven city slipper.

Unless you’re planning to stay exclusively at resorts or in beach towns on the Turkish Riviera, you’ll want to opt for a pair of sandals that are slightly more sophisticated than your average pair of flip-flops. These woven city slippers from Mohinders will do the job just fine. They’re breathable and very comfy to walk in for long periods of time, and the leather design is sleek and totally appropriate to wear into museums, restaurants, and bars in Istanbul and beyond. We also like that this pair comes in a handful of different colored leathers, so you can pick and choose based on the rest of your travel wardrobe.

Best Sandals for Women

Sandalup elastic flat sandals.

The Sandalup Elastic Flat Sandals hold the top spot in our books as the best sandals for women for a variety of reasons. The first thing we love about them is that they’re incredibly comfortable and breathable, thanks to the padded footbed and elastic straps. They also form right to your foot and offer a secure fit without being too tight. These sandals are also incredibly budget-friendly and last a long time, even if you wear them day in and day out on your sojourns. It’s also worth noting that they’re easy to slip on and off — perfect for popping into mosques without holding up the queue.

While you don’t need to invest in a conservative wardrobe for your trip, if you want to visit a mosque or shrine, there are some conditions to keep in mind, Anayurt points out. For example, women should plan to wear a headscarf when entering a mosque. I didn’t bother purchasing a traditional hijab or anything like that but opted for a multipurpose pashmina that I ended up also using as a shawl to cover my shoulders on chilly evenings.

What’s more, although Turkey is a very safe country for travelers and tourists, it’s always important to stay vigilant wherever you are, especially in population-dense areas like Istanbul. I haven’t yet invested in slash-proof bags and other anti-theft accessories for my trips there — but that’s not to say it’s not a good idea to take precaution. At the very least, choose items that will increase your level of comfort while putting in long days of exploration.

Best Sunglasses

Raen keera sunglasses.

The Raen Keera cat-eye sunglasses are our favorite sunglasses for traveling . Not only are these sunglasses stylish and versatile enough to wear with just about any outfit or occasion, but they’re also comfortable enough to wear all day. The design is slightly oversized and doesn’t pinch near the ears or nose. They also come with a conveniently slim protective case that allows you to easily store them in your travel handbag or backpack without worrying about damaging the lenses or arms. It’s worth noting that these sunglasses aren’t polarized, but the lenses are dark enough to prevent any uncomfortable glare or brightness.

Best Backpack

Solo re:define backpack.

The Solo Re:Define Backpack  won us over  on so many levels when it comes to the best backpack for exploring on foot. It’s incredibly lightweight and small but the interior is surprisingly spacious and will easily fit everything you’ll need for a full day on the go. The exterior of the bag is water-resistant and made from an antimicrobial material which is great for schlepping through the city streets. It’s also worth noting that this bag has a built-in USB port and a pocket for a portable charger for added convenience.

Best Crossbody Purse/Belt Bag

Lululemon everywhere belt bag 1l, gerinly lightweight printed cotton scarf.

I really love visiting mosques while I’m in Turkey (I find the architecture and atmosphere to be absolutely beautiful) but I never felt the need to invest in a traditional headscarf. Instead, I use the Gerinly Lightweight Printed Cotton Scarf, which can also function as a shawl on chilly evenings or even a beach coverup at a resort. It’s lightweight so you won’t find your head getting sweaty when wearing it as a headscarf, and it packs down pretty small so you can either tie it to your handbag or throw it into your backpack when you don’t need it.

The gear I pack for Turkey is pretty much identical to what I bring when I’m heading to a European city. You’ll want to ensure you have the right tech to keep your devices working and juiced up while putting in long days exploring the city.

Turkey is also a particularly beautiful country with varying landscapes and interesting architectural styles. The magnificence of the hot air balloon spectacle at sunrise in Cappadocia, for example, will never look as good in photos as it does in real life (or at least I couldn’t capture it!), but investing in a decent digital camera might be worth it if you’re hoping to snap the memories as best as possible. And who can forget a reliable sunscreen to protect your skin while out all day.

Best Adapter

Epicka universal travel adapter.

Turkey uses the Type C and Type F plugs. So if you’re traveling with tech from North America or the U.K., you’ll need an adaptor. Traveling with a ton of different adapters is kind of a pain, which is why we love the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter. It works in over 150 different countries thanks to the toggle outlets and can charge or power up to six devices at once (including everything from smartphones to laptops) so you don’t need to worry about packing multiple adapters. This option is also very compact compared to other  travel adapters  and won’t take up all that much space in your carry-on.

Sony Alpha 7R V

The Turkish landscape is incredibly diverse and gorgeous. So if you’ve been considering investing in a camera for travel, now might be the time to finally do it. The Sony Alpha 7R V is our top pick if you’re looking for crisp, high-quality imagery. It also offers excellent 8K video footage and intelligent features that makes shooting on the go efficient. The battery life is also particularly impressive so you won’t have to fret over charging your camera every night while traveling. We also really like how compact and lightweight this camera is; it won’t weigh you down while exploring.

Best Sunscreen

Banana boat sport performance sunscreen lotion.

You’ll want to ensure you have sunscreen with you while visiting Turkey, even if you’re not going to the beach. The Mediterranean sun is strong, and while I always come back with a pretty nice tan, I make sure to bring a travel-friendly sunscreen with me to reapply throughout the day. The Banana Boat Sport Ultra Sunscreen Lotion is a great option. It’s budget-friendly, can easily fit into a handbag, and doesn’t leave a sticky residue or make your skin look chalky after applying. It actually feels pretty moisturizing and leaves the skin hydrated. It also doesn’t transfer onto clothing, which is a huge bonus.

Best Portable Power Bank

Anker powercore 13000 portable battery.

If you’re spending any amount of time exploring, we always recommend bringing along a portable power bank. The Anker PowerCore 13000 Portable Battery is teeny-tiny and won’t take up any space in your day bag — but the 13,000 mAh capacity can still fully charge your phone up to three times on a single charge. We also really like that this power bank has two different USB ports, so you can actually charge two different devices at one time. Note that this charger comes with an 18-month warranty just in case.

No, Americans do not need a visa to visit Turkey. There was a visa requirement for Americans up until early 2024,  but now, Americans and Canadians are permitted to enter Turkey visa-free. You’ll just want to keep in mind that the country follows the same system as Europe — you can stay for up to 90 days within a given 180-day period.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, Kaitlyn McInnis used her experience as a full-time travel writer living part-time in Istanbul to curate the best options to suit most itineraries. She drew on inspiration from her multiple trips across Turkey, including to hotspots like Cappadocia and the Turkish countryside. Kaitlyn also interviewed Ali Faik Anayurt, a senior Istanbul-based tour guide who graduated from Gazi University with a degree in tourism guidance and has lived in Turkey his whole life. Anayurt shared his insights on the do's and don’ts of packing for Turkey, along with some of the best advice he has given to his clients over his decade-long career when preparing for their trips.

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Some errors - but quickly corrected, good service

There was an advertised discount of 60% off, yet when you try to book, this discount is not reflected in the price, very confusing. Also, it is very unclear how much you have to pay for the single supplement. There were some errors in the booking page - but once I messaged the company they were quickly corrected. I was grateful for the quick response and the apology and the corrected costings.

Date of experience : August 26, 2024

Reply from TourRadar

Hi Sarah, Thank you for sharing your feedback. We understand how frustrating such price discrepancy must have been, and we're glad our team and your operator promptly resolved the issue on your booking conversation page. We always strive for a seamless experience, and it’s reassuring to see that you’re now satisfied with the final price. Wishing you an incredible journey ahead! If you need any further assistance, our team is here to help. Best regards, The TourRadar Team

The tour radar representatives were…simply SUPER!!

The tour radar representatives were more than professional. I couldn't even find words to describe their extra effort and how nice they were! Aaron, Laura and Maria have all what it takes in this world to become successful. I thank them again from the bottom of my heart and look forward to my first vacation in 49 years!

Date of experience : August 23, 2024

Hi Michael, Thank you for your touching review! We’re so pleased that Aaron, Laura, and Maria went above and beyond to provide you with extraordinary service. It means a lot to us to be part of your first vacation in 49 years, and we’re excited to help make it an amazing experience. If you have any questions or need further assistance, our Travel Experts are available 24/7. Thank you, The TourRadar Team

I’ve been impressed with the tour team!

I’ve been impressed with how quickly information has been provided and my questions answered by the tour team. The booking process couldn’t have been easier.

Hi Irene, Thank you for your feedback! We’re so glad to hear that you’ve been impressed with our team and that the booking process was a breeze. Our goal is to make your travel planning as smooth as possible. If you have any more questions, our Travel Experts are available 24/7. Thank you, The TourRadar Team

Fantastic 3-Day Isle of Skye – A Truly Unforgettable Experience!

I recently had the pleasure of embarking on a 3-day tour of the Isle of Skye and Loch Ness, and I can confidently say it was one of the most incredible experiences I've ever had. Our tour guide, Neil, was simply outstanding. From start to finish, his knowledge, jokes, and warmth made the trip not just a sightseeing tour but a journey into the heart of Scotland. Neil brought each location to life with fascinating/hilarious stories and insights that we would never have discovered on our own. Whether it was the breathtaking landscapes of the Glencoe, the trek to manhood (old man storr), or the haunting beauty of Loch Ness, Neil made sure we appreciated every moment. If you're considering a tour of Scotland, especially the Isle of Skye and Loch Ness, I highly recommend doing it with Neil. You won't just see the sights; you'll leave with a deep connection to the places you visit and memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you, Neil, for an unforgettable experience!

Date of experience : August 21, 2024

Hi Jessica, Thank you for your review! We’re so pleased that your Isle of Skye and Loch Ness trip left a lasting impression. It’s wonderful to hear that your guide’s stories and insights added so much to your experience. We look forward to helping you plan more unforgettable trips. Our Travel Experts are here 24/7 if you need anything. Thank you, The TourRadar Team

amazing experience

I booked this tour last minute. It was an amazing experience and went beyond my expectations. The travel consultant Nicole has been friendly and helpful, always responded to me promptly. The tour guide in TOKYO was enthusiastic. He answered my questions with detailed information. I enjoyed chatting with him... He also took me nice pictures of Mount FUJI. Here I have to say I was VERY VERY lucky! The weather on the day was favourable and I was able to see the breathtaking view of FUJI. Thanks to agate travel for this wonderful travel experience. Highly recommend!

Date of experience : July 18, 2024

Hi Henry, Thank you for your fantastic review! We're thrilled to hear that your last-minute booking turned into such an amazing experience. It’s great to hear you felt well looked after, and that your guide made your adventure in Tokyo unforgettable. Capturing the breathtaking view of Mount Fuji sounds like a perfect highlight! Booking with TourRadar is the ultimate travel hack, and we can’t wait to assist with your future adventures! Happy travels, The TourRadar Team

Great Service

very prompt replies, very helpful, knowledgeable and proactive Joe is a great consultant who went out of his way to address our issues as they arose, which gave us great peace of mind. Thanks Joe

Date of experience : August 20, 2024

Hi Anthony, Thank you for your great review! We’re glad to hear that you received excellent service and that Joe was able to address your needs effectively. It’s always our goal to provide peace of mind during the booking process. If you have any further questions, our Travel Experts are available 24/7. Best regards, The TourRadar Team

Unforgettable experience

Tour was amazing we had a lot of fun and had an unforgettable experience. The guide was also great he gave answers for everything and helped with the organisation like renting of equipment and food for the hikes. Also the booking process was really fast and professional as we had a few questions at the beginning. We got all important information directly from the Organisator.

Date of experience : August 14, 2024

Hi Corvin, Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that your adventure was amazing and that you had an unforgettable experience. It’s great to know that your guide was helpful with everything, from answering questions to assisting with organization. If you have any further questions or need assistance with your next trip, our Travel Experts are available 24/7. Best regards, The TourRadar Team

Our trip was advertised for $632 to…

Our trip was advertised for $632 to Vietnam, then when I paid for the deposit, they then told me it was advertised wrong. It was a system area. It went up to $1079, so I wasn't off to a good start, so let's see how the trip goes..

Date of experience : August 24, 2024

Hi Sandy, Thank you for sharing your experience though we’re sorry to hear about the pricing change when booking your Vietnam trip. We noticed that your operator updated the quotation due to some changes in their pricing, which they acknowledged had been missed initially. We’re glad you were able to reach an agreement and proceed with your booking. We understand this wasn’t the ideal start, but we’re confident the rest of your adventure will be amazing, and your feedback has been shared with our internal teams and your operator to help improve future experiences. If you need any assistance, we’re available 24/7 to help. Kind regards, The TourRadar Team

Great Overall Trip

We had a great trip to the Galapagos with Adore Ecuador Travel. Great and professional agency to work with, very organized, very good contact. We weren't all that happy with the first couple of hotels, but I guess that's what you get for choosing "budget." Amazing animals, place and nature to experience. All in all, it was a great trip and a fantastic adventure.

Date of experience : July 28, 2024

Hi Maralee, Thank you for sharing your experience! We're thrilled to hear that your trip to the Galapagos with Adore Ecuador Travel was a fantastic adventure. It’s great to know that the agency was professional and well-organized. We understand the first couple of hotels didn’t quite meet your expectations, and we will be sure to provide your feedback to the operator. If you have any further questions or need assistance, our Travel Experts are available 24/7. Best regards, The TourRadar Team

Good service

Good service - it's my 3rd booking with TourRadar (Indochina - Adventure Uganda/Tanzania/Rwanda - and now Kashmir/Ladhak. The two last ones were well organised, with good guides/drivers - and hotels/boats were well chosen. So I hope this will be as good this time.

Date of experience : August 15, 2024

Hi Bernadette, Thank you for your continued trust in TourRadar! We're delighted that you enjoyed your previous adventures with our trusted operator partners. We look forward to delivering another exceptional experience in India. TourRadar is proud to offer over 50,000 adventures in over 160 countries. We look forward to assisting you with your future travels! Happy Travels, The TourRadar Team

Kate helped answer our questions

Kate helped answer our questions, which made us comfortable with the trip purchase. The TR site is well laid out and easy to navigate. Thank you

Date of experience : August 18, 2024

Hi Max, Thanks for sharing your experience! We’re delighted that Kate was able to address your questions, making you feel confident in your trip purchase. It’s also great to hear that you found our website easy to use. If you need any further assistance, we’re here 24/7 to help. Happy Travels, The TourRadar Team

Fabulous Rapa Nui trip with TourRadar!!!!

We asked TourRadar to organise our trip in Rapa Nui and we were really happy with the quality of their customer care and the hotel they booked for us. The activities were also amazing and communication was excellent even during our stay on the island, our kid was sick on one occasion and they managed to change the date of a tour for us. They even arranged a couple of birthday surprises for our twins!!! Marilda, Tahis and Denise were all amazing!!! Tahis in particular was really helpful during our stay in Rapa Nui. We will definitely book our next special holiday with TourRadar!!!

Date of experience : August 05, 2024

Hi Giorgio & Valeria, Thanks for sharing your amazing experience! We're delighted that your Rapa Nui trip was everything you hoped for, with great activities, excellent communication, and thoughtful touches for your family. We can’t wait to help you plan your next special holiday and our Travel Experts are here 24/7 if you need anything. Happy Travels, The TourRadar Team

Great tour company

Great tour company, will continue using this company, the best so far since 2018 for us, thank you Tourradar.

Hi Carlos, Thank you for your wonderful review! It’s great to hear that TourRadar has been your top choice since 2018. We’re grateful for your ongoing trust and look forward to being part of your future journeys. If you need any assistance, our Travel Experts are available 24/7. Thank you, The TourRadar Team

Great customer support

This is my 2nd time to use this tour agency. It has several tours dates and places to choose from. Priced better compared to other travel company. Terms and conditions are clear and straight forward. Would be nice if they have a special pricing fee for seniors. 😊

Hi Raul, Thank you for choosing TourRadar and for your kind words about our customer support. We’re thrilled you found our tours diverse and competitively priced and we're proud to offer our Best Price Guarantee to ensure you always get the best value. Your feedback on senior pricing is valuable, and we’ll take it into consideration as we continue improving our platform. Happy Travels, The TourRadar Team

Wanderful Holidays LLC is not what they claim

This company is ok ,however I think that when asked for a review on a particular guide , I should not have been countered with lies from there company in a response. I feel like I cant fully trust that I am getting an honest review from clients. I tried to give my honest view both good and bad and I was "ATTACKED " with lies as a response from the company after my review. I had no way of giving back a response to let people know what they were saying was not true and at the end of it all it seemed as if I was a disgruntled person that didn't follow there rules. This was the first and def. the last time i would trust a company on-line to do my planned vacation from this site. Also, I noticed that after I posted my review there were several reviews showing that they were great and this was supposedly before my vacation dates, however when I initially looked for review for this particular tour there was only 2 and non of what I now see was ever there before. (SMH) . I really didn't appreciate it what this company Wanderful Holidays has done. I had to pay extra while being on vacation because of there false advertisement. This was after paying for a complete tour. I was promised a partial refund and received nothing . I guess you have to pay to learn . But i will be sure to pass on the word to my friends and family and their social media contacts concerning my experience.

Date of experience : July 25, 2024

Hi there, Thank you for sharing your experience though we regret to hear that your interaction with Wanderful Holidays LLC didn't meet your expectations. We take all feedback seriously, and it’s important to us that reviews reflect honest experiences. We would be happy to assist in resolving any outstanding issues, however, as we don’t have enough details to locate your booking and investigate your concerns, we’ve sent a request for further details through the Trustpilot platform. We look forward to your response and hope to better your experience moving forward. Kind regards, The TourRadar Team

Very simple and streamlined booking…

Very simple and streamlined booking process. Also queries were answered, albeit a little late, since they were dependent on the tour operator's response.

Date of experience : August 22, 2024

So far, so good

So far, so good. Booking was fairly straight forward. Let's see how the tour goes before we make a complete judgement.

Great booking and customer service

I have found the whole booking experience and customer service excellent. Any questions have always been answered in full and in a timely manner so we could create our holiday to suit all travellers.

Hi Jayne, Thank you for the fantastic feedback! We’re delighted that our 24/7 Travel Experts and booking process met your expectations. Our goal is to ensure that every traveler's needs are met, and we’re pleased we could help make your holiday planning seamless. Kind regards, The TourRadar Team

No Room layout plan in the boat

there is no layout plan in the boat. its not clear if the room in the boat is offering twin bed or double bed, i.e. 2 single bed or 1 large bed. Chatted with the chat provided by the website and ended up still booked the wrong configuration. Luckily able to upgrade to desired level.

Date of experience : August 19, 2024

Hi Kevin, We’re so excited to see that you have booked this wonderful cruise! We understand how important it is to have all the necessary information when booking your adventure, especially regarding room configurations. We sincerely regret if this information was not entirely clear during your booking process. Rest assured, we are reviewing your live chat communication and your feedback to identify areas for improvement. If you have any further questions about your adventure, you can contact your operator through your booking conversation page or reach out to our 24/7 Travel Experts. A member of our Customer Relations team will be in touch shortly to further review your feedback. Kind Regards, The TourRadar Team

Have booked 5 tours through then now!

Have used to book 5 tours through tourradar now and each time has been easy and perfect. Great site to be able to compare tours across all the major tour providers. They often have excellent sales too! Also love they have a rewards program that earns real dollar credits towards your next booking.

Date of experience : August 07, 2024

Hi Ellie, Thanks for sharing your experience and for your continued loyalty! We're delighted that you've booked 5 tours with us and that everything has been perfect each time. We're always looking for ways to enhance our sales and rewards program, so keep your eyes out for more! As always, we are available 24/7 for any questions or support. Happy Travels, The TourRadar Team

Türkiye: Entry Requirements and Essential Tips

August 26, 2024

Travel-Influencer

Read Time: 5.9 min

Essential Passport and Visa Requirements for Traveling to Türkiye

T ürkiye, a stunning country that bridges Europe and Asia, is a dream destination for travelers. From its rich historical sites and vibrant culture to its breathtaking landscapes, Türkiye offers something for everyone. However, before you embark on your journey, it’s crucial to understand the entry requirements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about traveling to Türkiye, including passport and visa requirements, tips for a seamless entry, and some useful travel advice.

Passport Requirements for Travel to Türkiye

When planning a trip to Türkiye, one of the first things you need to check is your passport. According to the Turkish government’s regulations, your passport must meet specific criteria to allow you entry into the country. These requirements are crucial to avoid any last-minute hiccups at the airport.

1. Validity of Your Passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 150 days from the date of your arrival in Türkiye. This requirement is non-negotiable, and failing to comply could result in being denied entry.

2. Blank Pages for Stamps

Ensure that your passport has at least one full blank page available for entry and exit stamps. This might seem like a minor detail, but it’s essential for a smooth immigration process.

3. Additional Requirements for Residents

If you are a resident in Türkiye, your passport must be valid for six months from the date of your arrival. This extended validity period is mandatory for residents compared to tourists.

Visa Requirements for Türkiye

Understanding the visa requirements is just as important as having the right passport. Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit, you may or may not need a visa to enter Türkiye.

1. Visa-Free Entry

For tourists and business travelers from many countries, including the UK, a visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This visa exemption is perfect for short visits, whether you’re planning to explore the historical sites of Istanbul, relax on the beaches of Antalya, or conduct business in Ankara.

2. Extended Stay and Residency Permits

If you plan to stay in Türkiye for more than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a longer-stay visa or a residence permit before your initial 90-day period ends. This is especially important for those who wish to work, study, or retire in Türkiye.

3. Special Considerations for British Nationals

For British nationals holding different types of British nationality, such as British National (Overseas), it’s essential to check the specific visa requirements with the Turkish Embassy or Consulate General before traveling. The rules can vary depending on your specific situation.

Important Tips for a Smooth Entry into Türkiye

To ensure that your trip to Türkiye goes off without a hitch, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

1. Double-Check Your Passport

Before you travel, double-check that your passport meets all the necessary requirements. Ensure it has the required validity and enough blank pages. If your passport is close to expiring or lacks blank pages, consider renewing it before your trip.

2. Know the Land Border Entry Rules

If you plan to enter Türkiye through a land border, make sure your passport receives a dated entry stamp. This stamp is crucial for documenting your arrival and ensuring a smooth exit from the country.

3. Understand the Local Customs

Familiarizing yourself with Türkiye’s local customs and traditions can enhance your travel experience. For example, knowing a few basic Turkish phrases, dressing modestly when visiting religious sites, and understanding tipping etiquette can go a long way in making your trip more enjoyable.

Exploring Türkiye: Must-Visit Destinations and Experiences

Now that you’re well-versed in the entry requirements, let’s dive into some of the must-visit destinations and experiences that await you in Türkiye.

Istanbul: A Blend of History and Modernity

Istanbul , the largest city in Türkiye, is a unique destination where East meets West. With its iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, Istanbul offers a rich historical experience. Don’t miss the bustling Grand Bazaar and a cruise along the Bosphorus for breathtaking views of the city’s skyline.

Cappadocia: A Surreal Landscape

Cappadocia , known for its otherworldly landscapes and hot air balloon rides, is a must-visit for any traveler to Türkiye. The region’s unique rock formations, cave dwellings, and underground cities make it a fascinating destination for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.

Antalya: The Turquoise Coast

Antalya , located on Türkiye’s southwestern coast, is famous for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect place to relax, soak up the sun, and explore ancient ruins like those at Perge and Aspendos. The old town of Kaleiçi, with its narrow streets and Ottoman-era houses, is a charming area to wander through.

Pamukkale: The Cotton Castle

Pamukkale , meaning “Cotton Castle” in Turkish, is a natural wonder of white travertine terraces and thermal waters. This UNESCO World Heritage site is not only a sight to behold but also a place to experience the healing properties of its mineral-rich waters.

Ephesus: Ancient Ruins and Archaeological Marvels

Ephesus , one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The city’s impressive ruins, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre, offer a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Roman civilization.

Practical Information for Travelers

Beyond entry requirements and top destinations, there are a few more practical aspects to consider when planning your trip to Türkiye.

1. Currency and Payments

The official currency in Türkiye is the Turkish Lira (TRY). While credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially when traveling to smaller towns or markets.

2. Language

The official language of Türkiye is Turkish. While English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic phrases in Turkish can enhance your travel experience and help you connect with locals.

3. Transportation

Türkiye has a well-developed transportation network, including buses, trains, and domestic flights. For long-distance travel, consider flying between major cities, while buses and trains are excellent options for regional travel.

4. Safety and Health

Türkiye is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it’s always wise to stay informed about the latest travel advisories. Make sure to have travel insurance that covers health emergencies, as healthcare in Türkiye is of high quality but can be expensive without insurance.

Prepare for an Unforgettable Journey

Türkiye is a country that offers a wealth of experiences, from its historical landmarks and cultural heritage to its stunning natural landscapes. By ensuring your passport and visa are in order and following the tips provided in this guide, you can look forward to a seamless and unforgettable journey.

Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Istanbul, marveling at the ancient ruins of Ephesus, or relaxing on the beaches of Antalya, Türkiye is sure to leave a lasting impression.

For more detailed information and to plan your trip, visit the Travel Guide of Türkiye .

Latest Update: Aug 26, 2024

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