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Turkey Travel Guide

Heterogeneous Turkey shows influences from the Middle East, Mediterranean, the Balkan peninsula, and Central Asia, but it’s much more than its clichéd image of where East meets West. Stylish Istanbul holds one of the world’s youngest populations. Beach towns scattered along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts tempt tourists to resorts, while world-class archaeological sites dot unforgettable desert landscapes. Combined with innovative cuisine, maze-like bazaars, and friendly people, there’s something for everyone.

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Turkey Travel Guide: Plan Your Perfect Trip

Written by Jess Lee Updated Sep 24, 2021

Turkey is a destination that offers something for all visitors. During the long, hot summer, tourism is concentrated in Istanbul and along the coast, but even a beach holiday is easily combined with cultural sightseeing, as most of the popular resort towns are within day-trip distance to some of the country's most famous classical-era ruins.

Travel inland from the feted coastline, though, and the true diversity of Turkey is revealed. From vast ruins perched on mountain summits to fresco-covered Byzantine-era cave churches and Ottoman mosques, and hiking trails following ancient pilgrimage paths to the buzzing foodie and café culture of the cities, a vacation in Turkey can effortlessly incorporate both epic history and an incredible variety of landscapes.

On This Page:

Inspirational ideas for planning your trip to turkey, best time to visit turkey, visitors guide to istanbul, visitors guide to antalya, best towns in turkey, outdoor attractions & activities in turkey, historic highlights of turkey, essential stats & facts, first-time traveler tips for turkey.

Whether you're planning a trip that concentrates on history, hitting the beach, exploring Turkey's varied countryside or a mix of it all, find out what the highlights are with our overviews on the best places to add to your visit.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Turkey
• Top-Rated Things to Do in Turkey
• Plan Your Trip to Turkey: Best Itineraries
• Best Cities in Turkey
• Best Honeymoon Destinations in Turkey
• Best Mosques in Turkey
• Best Things to Do in Winter in Turkey
• Turkey in Pictures: 17 Beautiful Places to Photograph

Summer: This is high season in Turkey, when visitors from across Europe fly in for some Mediterranean beach time, and Turks take advantage of the long summer school holiday to head for the sand as well. The resorts all along the coast spring into action, and Istanbul bustles every weekend with visitors on short city breaks.

Blue skies and hot weather prevail across the entire country. In eastern Turkey, temperatures soar. If you want to head to the mountains for hiking, though, or to Mount Nemrut to view the stone heads on the summit, this is the best season to go. Pre-booking hotels in popular tourism destinations (Istanbul, all along the coast, and Cappadocia) is a good idea. Also, expect hotel prices in the above destinations to be at their highest.

Fall: (September and October) This is a great time to visit Turkey. Along the coast, it's less busy, and hotel prices fall, but the weather is still mostly sunny and warm. Once the summer heat has fizzled out, it's perfect sightseeing weather to explore eastern Turkey, with plenty of blue skies still and moderate temperatures (though pack some cold-weather clothes, as the first snow out in the east can hit from mid-October).

Winter: Many resorts along the coast shut up shop completely, and hotels that stay open drop prices substantially. Expect plenty of rain along the coast, and inland to be blanketed in snow. Hotel prices in Istanbul and in Cappadocia are at their lowest, though many travelers specifically travel to Cappadocia during this season to see the fairy chimneys dusted with snow. Ski season begins in November.

Spring: Unless you're visiting specifically for a beach holiday, this is the best season to visit Turkey. Wildflowers cover the countryside, hotel prices in major destinations are still low, and historic sights aren't crowded. Istanbul's public parks are covered in tulips in April. Many hotels in beach towns don't open their doors until May. Mount Nemrut has generally opened for visits by mid-April.

May is one of the best months of the year to travel in eastern Turkey, with moderate temperatures. Do pack your umbrella if traveling in spring, as this is Turkey's rainiest season.

Istanbul is a destination in itself. Once Constantinople, the grand capital of both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, it is one of the world's great cities.

Although rightly famed for its historic monuments, Istanbul is also the heartbeat of contemporary, cosmopolitan Turkey with a thriving modern art, music, and cultural scene and the most interesting and varied shopping, dining, and café life in the country.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Istanbul
• Exploring Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya): A Visitor's Guide
• Exploring Istanbul's Archaeological Museum: A Visitor's Guide
• Istanbul's Grand Bazaar: Things to Buy & Shopping Tips
• Best Places for Shopping in Istanbul
• Top-Rated Day Trips from Istanbul
• Visiting Troy from Istanbul: Attractions, Tips & Tours
• Best Beaches near Istanbul
• Best Parks in Istanbul
• From Istanbul to Bodrum: Best Ways to Get There
• From Istanbul to Pamukkale: Best Ways to Get There
• From Istanbul to Izmir: Best Ways to Get There

During the Turkish summer, Antalya is the major gateway city to the Mediterranean shore.

This city isn't just a staging post for hitting the beach, though. Some of Turkey's most famous classical-era ruins including Aspendos, Perge, and the ruins of Side are within easy day-tripping distance, while Antalya is also the perfect starting or ending point for travel itineraries taking in the coastal scenery and historic highlights of Turkey's coastline.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Antalya
• Exploring the Ancient City of Aspendos: A Visitor's Guide
• From Istanbul to Antalya: Best Ways to Get There

While the beach towns along the Aegean and Mediterranean grab the most visitors, away from the coast, Turkey's provincial cities and towns offer plenty of historical and cultural sightseeing.

Turkish capital Ankara is home to two of the country's most important monuments. Konya is where the whirling dervishes began, foodie visitors head to Gaziantep simply to eat its world-renowned baklava and to Bursa to sample its Iskender kebap, and Safranbolu is a painstakingly preserved Ottoman-era old town.

Out east, Mardin and Şanlıurfa are two of the most popular bases to explore the rugged landscapes, multi-ethnic heritage, and lonely ruins of eastern Turkey.

For the famous classical-era ruins along the Aegean Coast, Selçuk and Izmir are great bases, while Fethiye and Kaş offer sailing, kayaking, hiking, and many other outdoor activities along with plenty of ruins within day-tripping distance.

Best Towns for the Beach & Outdoor Activities

• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Fethiye
• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Bodrum
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kaş
• Top-Rated Things to Do in Marmaris
• Top-Rated Things to Do in Alanya
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Side
• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Kuşadası

Best Towns for History & Culture

• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Ankara
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Konya
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Safranbolu
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Gaziantep
• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Bursa, Turkey
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Mardin
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Şanlıurfa
• Top-Rated Things to Do in Adana, Turkey
• Top-Rated Things to Do in Edirne, Turkey
• Top-Rated Attractions in Selçuk & Ephesus

The calcite travertines of Pamukkale and the fairy chimney landscape of Cappadocia are two of Turkey's most famous landscapes. Both are prime bases for plenty of historic sites and ruins and outdoor activities, including hot-air ballooning, hiking, horse riding, and paragliding.

Down on the coast, the beaches are the main attraction, though activities such as hiking, sailing, kayaking, and paragliding offer plentiful opportunities to get off the sand.

To experience Turkey's most lush landscapes, don't miss adding the Black Sea coast into your itinerary, while the mountains and lakes around Eğirdir are an easy add-on to a coastal trip and provide a glimpse into the variety of Turkey's countryside.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cappadocia
• Hot-Air Ballooning in Cappadocia: A Complete Guide
• From Istanbul to Cappadocia: Best Ways to Get There
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Pamukkale
• Top-Rated Things to Do in Ölüdeniz
• Top-Rated Beaches in Turkey
• Top-Rated Attractions on the Black Sea Coast, Turkey
• Exploring the Sagalassos Ruins and Lake Eğirdir
• Top-Rated Islands in Turkey

Turkey's history is mind-boggling. Many travelers head here specifically to visit classical-era ruins such as Ephesus, and then realize once here just how much more there is to see.

Archaeological sites here cover the full breadth of human history, from the earliest temple and earliest Neolithic villages ever discovered, right up to the glorious mosques and monuments of the Ottoman era.

• Visiting Ephesus: Attractions, Tips & Tours
• Exploring Laodikeia: A Visitor's Guide
• Exploring Mount Nemrut: A Visitor's Guide
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Mount Nemrut Region
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Pergamum & the North Aegean
• Top-Rated Attractions in Çanakkale, Gallipoli Peninsula & Troy
• Exploring the Mevlana Museum: A Visitor's Guide
• Exploring Ancient Olympos & the Chimaera: A Visitor's Guide
• Visiting the Atatürk Mausoleum (Anıtkabir)
• Exploring the Top Attractions of Ancient Harran
• Exploring Gordion, Museum & History
• A Visitor's Guide to Çatalhöyük: Excavations & History

• Population of Turkey: The population of Turkey is 82 million. Turkey's population has seen dramatic urbanization, with approximately 76 percent of the population living in urban areas. The country's northwest is the most densely populated region with around 20 percent of the population living in Istanbul.
• Capital of Turkey: The capital of Turkey is Ankara. It has a population of five million.
• Geography of Turkey: Turkey is the 38th largest country in the world, covering 783,562 square kilometers. Turkey shares borders with eight countries: Bulgaria and Greece to the west; Georgia, Armenia, the Azerbaijan exclave of Nakhichivan, Iran, and Iraq to the east; and Syria to the south.
• Languages of Turkey: The official language of Turkey is Turkish. Around 10 percent of the population is Kurdish and speak Kurmanji (Northern Kurdish) as well.
• Currency of Turkey: Turkey's currency is the Turkish Lira
• Time Zone of Turkey: Turkey's time zone is UTC + 3

Tourist Visas: Turkish tourist visas are required and must be purchased pre-arrival through the official e-visa website.

Electricity: Turkey uses two-prong European-style plugs.

Hotel Rates: Hotel rates in Turkey normally include breakfast and Wi-Fi.

Visiting Mosques: Outside of prayer times, mosques in Turkey are open for non-Muslims to visit. Wear modest clothing and always take your shoes off before entering the prayer hall (a shelf for shoes is normally provided at the entrance). Women should don a headscarf before entering. At larger famous mosques, there is usually a bin full of headscarfs you can borrow.

The National Drink: Turkey's national drink is tea, served black in small tulip-shaped glasses. Turkey consumes the most tea in the world, and tea (grown in the Black Sea region) is also one of its most profitable agricultural exports. You will be offered tea everywhere. When using a tea self-service urn (at hotel breakfasts) there is one tap for straight tea and another for hot water. You are supposed to mix it to your required taste. Try one third tea to two thirds water.

Shoes: If you're invited into a home in Turkey, always take your shoes off at the door.

Smoking: In Turkey, smoking is officially banned in all indoor spaces, including restaurants and hotels. The ban is strictly enforced in Istanbul and in areas that receive a lot of tourism (such as the coastal resort towns and Cappadocia) but be aware that it tends to be more loosely adhered to outside of these areas.

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Turkey - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution when traveling to Turkey due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel To:

• Sirnak province, Hakkari province, and any area within six miles (10 kilometers) of the Syrian border due to terrorism.

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Turkey.  Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Security forces have detained tens of thousands of individuals, including U.S. citizens, for alleged affiliations with terrorist organizations based on scant or secret evidence and grounds that appear to be politically motivated.  U.S. citizens have also been subject to travel bans that prevent them from departing Turkey. Participation in demonstrations not explicitly approved by the Government of Turkey, as well as criticism of the government (including on social media), can result in arrest.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Turkey.

If you decide to travel to Turkey:

• Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Stay at hotels with identifiable security measures.
• Monitor local media and be prepared to adjust your plans quickly.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive travel alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report for Turkey.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Sirnak Province, Hakkari Province, and Any Area within six miles (ten kilometers) of the Syrian Border – Level 4:  Do Not Travel

Do not travel to Sirnak province, Hakkari province, or any area within six miles (10 kilometers) of the Turkey/Syria border due to the continued threat of attacks by terrorist groups, armed conflict, and civil unrest.  Terrorist attacks, including suicide bombings, ambushes, car bomb detonations, and improvised explosive devices, as well as shootings, and illegal roadblocks leading to violence have occurred in these areas. U.S. government employees are subject to travel restrictions in the entire provinces of Sirnak and Hakkari, and any areas within 10 km of the Syrian border.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Six months beyond date of entry

One page for entry and exit stamps

Not required for stays under 90 days

25,000 Turkish lira or 10,000 euros (or equivalent)

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy ankara.

1480 Sok No:1 Cukurambar Mah  Cankaya 06530, Ankara Turkey Telephone: +(90) (312) 294-0000 (emergencies only) Fax: +(90) (312) 232-7472 Contact American Citizen Services Ankara

U.S. Consulate General Istanbul Istinye Mahallesi, Üç Şehitler Sokak No.2 Istinye 34460 – Istanbul, Turkey Telephone: +(90) (212) 335-9000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(90) (212) 335-9000 Fax: +(90) (212) 335-9102 Contact American Citizen Services Istanbul

U.S. Consulate Adana Girne Bulvari No. 212, Güzelevler Mahallesi, Yüregir Adana, Turkey Telephone: +(90) (322) 455-4100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(90) (322) 455-4100 Fax: +(90)(322) 455-4141 Contact American Citizen Services Adana

U.S. Consular Agent - Izmir Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(90) (312) 455-5555 [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey  website for the most current visa and residency permit information.

• In Turkey, contact the nearest Directorate General of Migration Management office to obtain a residence permit.

Obey all Turkish visa regulations and maintain valid residence permits at all times.  The U.S. Embassy is unable to assist with Turkish immigration or visa-related matters.  Turkish authorities enforce immigration laws.

• Passports must be valid for six months beyond your entry date.  You will be  denied entry  into Turkey if there is not enough space for  entry and exit stamps  in your passport.
• Official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye .
• Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
• Get entry and exit stamps . You must have a Turkish entry stamp to fly domestically.  Get an exit stamp in your passport when leaving the country  or you may face  difficulties re-entering Turkey in the future  and  a fine .
• If you are planning to  work, study, or conduct academic or scientific research  in Turkey, you must receive a visa from a Turkish embassy or consulate before arriving in Turkey. Visit  “Living in Turkey”  on the U.S. Embassy’s website.

Syria:  See the  Syria travel advisory.  The U.S. Embassy in Damascus suspended operations in February 2012.  The Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against all travel to Syria.  At this time, the Turkey-Syria border is closed except in cases of urgent medical treatment or safety from immediate danger as defined by the Government of Turkey.

Iraq:  See the  Iraq travel advisory .  The Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against all travel to Iraq.  The Turkish Government tightly controls entry and exit on the border.

HIV/AIDS restrictions:   The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Turkey.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  The potential for terrorist attacks in Turkey, including against U.S. citizens and interests, remains high.

• Terrorists have previously attacked U.S. interests in Turkey, including the U.S. Embassy in Ankara, the U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul, and the U.S. Consulate in Adana.
• Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Turkey. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas. Terrorists have also previously targeted Western tourists and expatriates.

Under laws passed in 2018, Turkish security forces have an expanded legal ability to stop and search individuals and to  detain individuals without charge.

For your own safety:

• Carry a passport or identity document at all times.
• Follow local news sources during your stay to remain abreast of any potential areas, dates, or times of concern.
• Exercise caution and good judgment, keep a low profile, and maintain a high level of vigilance.
• Avoid demonstrations, which may become violent and unpredictable.
• Obey the instructions of Turkish security personnel at all times.

There have also been threats and acts of violence targeting religious minorities, groups, institutions, and places of worship in Turkey. The level of anti-Israeli and anti-Semitic sentiment remains significant.

Protests and gatherings:  Public gatherings are common in Turkey and can include protests or demonstrations, holiday celebrations, family events, sporting events, and political events in the lead up to elections and following the announcement of election results. U.S. citizens should

• Avoid demonstrations and gatherings, as they may become violent and unpredictable. 
• Be aware celebratory gunfire is common in some areas and has resulted in deaths in recent years. 
• Follow local authorities instructions, police may take action to disperse the group, including possibly using teargas or detaining participants, even when the government has approved gatherings.

Crime:  Overall street crime in Turkey is low; however, you should use the same precautions you would take in the United States. The following types of crime have been reported in Turkey:

• Pick-pocketing ,  purse snatching , and  mugging.  Carry only necessary items when in tourist areas. 
• Residential crime  occurs more often in major cities, with criminals targeting ground floor apartments for theft.
• Sexual assault  has occurred in Turkish baths ( hamams ) or spas, in taxis, and when traveling alone at night. Assaults involving  date rape drugs  have also been reported.
• Confidence schemes  occur where travelers are tricked into ordering food or drinks at a restaurant, and then are charged incredibly high prices. Patronize well-established restaurants and ask to see a menu with prices before ordering anything.
• Scams  are common in Turkey, particularly internet scams involving people who met online. Typically, the person in Turkey asks the other person to wire large sums of money to provide financial assistance.  Do not send money to someone you have never met in person.  Exercise due diligence when purchasing jewelry, rugs, or real estate. See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Eastern and Southeastern Turkey: We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens reconsider travel to specific areas in eastern and southeastern Turkey, and do not travel to areas near the Syrian or Iraqi borders.

U.S. Government employees are subject to travel restrictions  to the provinces of Batman, Bingol, Bitlis, Diyarbakir, Gaziantep, Hakkari, Hatay, Kilis, Mardin, Sanliurfa, Siirt, Sirnak, Tunceli and Van.  Mount Ararat , in Agri province, is a special military zone, and  access permission must be obtained before coming to Turkey  from a Turkish Embassy or Consulate.

The following incidents and activities have taken place in eastern and   southeastern Turkey :

• Terrorist attacks:  Terrorist groups, including Da’esh, also referred to as The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) or The Islamic State of Iraq and ash Sham (ISIS), and the PKK (the Kurdistan Workers’ Party), have conducted large-scale attacks in the area, including suicide bombings, ambushes, and the detonation of car bombs, improvised explosive devices, and other homemade weapons. The PKK has attacked Turkish military and police personnel in the eastern and southeastern provinces, occasionally harming bystanders.
• Restricted access:  Turkish security forces control access to the southeastern provinces of Hakkari, Mardin and Sirnak along the Iraqi border, and the entire Turkey-Syria border.  Do not photograph or video Turkish military operations or attempt to enter military installations anywhere in Turkey.
• Shootings:  Turkish towns located along the border with Syria have been struck by bullets and artillery rounds that originate in Syria, some resulting in deaths or injuries.
• Roadblocks:  Use commercial air travel whenever possible while traveling to southeastern Turkey.  If road travel is necessary, drive only during daylight hours and on major highways.  The Turkish  Jandarma  (rural police) monitors checkpoints on roads. Cooperate if stopped at a checkpoint. Be prepared to provide identification and vehicle registration. Remain calm, do not make any sudden movements, and obey all instructions.  We strongly discourage the use of public transportation in the southeastern region.
• Demonstrations:  Violent clashes have taken place between Kurdish groups and Turkish police resulting from organized demonstrations.
• Curfews:  The Turkish Government has instituted temporary curfews in cities throughout the southeast due to blockades of certain neighborhoods by the PKK. Adhere to any locally imposed curfews.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police by dialing 155 and contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime. See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . We urge U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault to contact the U.S. Embassy or closest consulate.

 We can:

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help you find resources for accommodation and flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance and visit the  Embassy webpage  for resources.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.

• Always carry with you a form of official government photo identification, such as a residence permit or copy of your passport.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.  Turkish authorities may not inform U.S. officials of dual nationals arrested in Turkey.  See our  webpage  for further information on arrests.

• Insulting the State:  It is illegal to show disrespect to the name or image of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, or to insult the Turkish Government, flag, President, or security forces,  including on social media . Erase any sensitive photos, comments, or other materials from your social media pages, cameras, laptops, and other electronic devices that could be considered controversial or provocative.
• Drug offenses:  Turkish law enforcement is  very aggressive  in combating illegal drugs. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are very strict, and include heavy fines and jail sentences between four and 20 years.
• Cultural artifacts:  Turkish law has a broad definition of “antiquities” and makes it a crime to remove any from the country. If you buy antiquities, use authorized dealers and get museum certificates for each item. Failure to have a receipt and certificate at departure can result in  your arrest , and  jail time . Contact the  Embassy of the Republic of Turkey  in Washington for specific information regarding customs requirements.
• Male dual nationals over the age of 18 may be subject to Turkish conscription and compulsory military service. Consult officials at Turkish Embassies or Consulates with any questions before entering Turkey.
• Counterfeit goods:  Do not buy counterfeit or pirated goods, even if widely available. They are both illegal to bring back into the United States and to purchase locally.
• Religious proselytizing:  There is no law against religious proselytizing.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  Homophobia, transphobia, and intolerance towards homosexuality are widespread throughout Turkey. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) individuals are  not protected by anti-discrimination laws  and have been the targets of violence in recent years. References in the law relating to “offenses against public morality,” “protection of the family,” and “unnatural sexual behavior,” are sometimes used as a basis for abuse by law enforcement officials. In addition, the law states that “no association may be founded for purposes against law and morality,” a clause which has been used by authorities in attempts to shut down or limit the activities of associations working on LGBTI matters.

See   our  LGBTI Travel Information   page and section 6 of our Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:   The Turkish constitution prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in the provision of state services, employment, education and access to health care. However, access to buildings and public transportation for the disabled in most cities is quite limited, and generally, accessibility for people with disabilities in Turkey is poor. Airports and metro stations are typically accessible, but other forms of public transport (buses) are not.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  The Embassy is aware of multiple sexual assaults against U.S. citizens in Turkey, including assaults against tourists traveling alone or in small groups, and at spas and  hamams.

• If you are sexually assaulted, please seek immediate help from the Turkish National Police, Turkish Health Services, or nearest hospital if you feel safe doing so.
• We urge you to contact the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance.

See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Earthquakes:  Earthquakes occur throughout Turkey. Make contingency plans and leave emergency contact information with family members outside Turkey. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available from the  U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  and at  Ready.gov. For more information on disaster preparedness, please click on the following links:

• U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
• FEMA: Earthquakes
• FEMA for Kids: Emergency Preparedness
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Earthquake Preparedness

Medical care provided in Turkish hospitals varies greatly. Though new private hospitals in Ankara, Antalya, Izmir and Istanbul have modern facilities, equipment, numerous U.S.-trained specialists, and international accreditation, some still may be unable to treat certain serious conditions. Health care standards are lower in small cities in Turkey.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance   to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of Turkey to ensure the medication is legal in Turkey. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Some medications may be unavailable in Turkey.

For U.S. citizens who live in Turkey , please see the Embassy’s website for  information on the Turkish General Health Insurance (GHI) law . If you are considering enrolling in Turkish GHI, carefully research what is and is not covered. Once you enroll in GHI, your coverage can only be cancelled if your residence permit expires or if you no longer reside in Turkey.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Roads in Turkey range from single-lane country roads to modern, divided motorways. Highways in the tourist-frequented western, southwestern, and coastal regions of Turkey are generally in good condition and are well maintained, while conditions in other areas vary.

Be extremely cautious while driving at night.  Driving after dark, especially in rural areas, requires extra caution due to dangers such as livestock on the road or narrow unmarked or unpaved roads.

In case of an  accident  or  car trouble :

• Pull to the side of the road, turn on hazard lights, and use reflector triangles.
• For accidents with only vehicular damage, exchange insurance information, take photos of the accident before moving the vehicles, and depart if both sides agree. Turkish law requires drivers to fill out a Turkish-only form and provide pictures of the damage. Non-Turkish speakers should call and wait for the police.
• For accidents with injury  or a disagreement, remain at the site of the accident.  Do not move the vehicle  – even out of the way – until the Traffic Police arrive. Report the accident to the Traffic Police (dial 155) or Jandarma (dial 156). Get a certified copy of the official report from the Traffic Police office (this can take several days).
• The owner of the damaged vehicle should also apply to the customs authority with his passport and accident report before attempting to repair the vehicle or leave the country without the vehicle.
• When in doubt, it is best to call the Traffic Police or the Jandarma in the event of an accident.

Traffic Laws:  Drive defensively at all times. Drivers routinely ignore traffic regulations, including driving through red lights and stop signs, and turning left from the far right lane. These and other similar driving practices cause frequent traffic accidents.

• Penalties for  driving drunk  (blood alcohol levels at or above 0.05 percent) include a  fine  and the individual’s license being confiscated for  six months .
• Using cell phones while driving is  illegal  and can lead to a  fine .

Driver’s license requirements include:

• For stays up to 180 days : A valid U.S. driver’s license or an International Driving Permit and a U.S. driver’s license is acceptable.
• For stays longer than 180 days : Obtain a Turkish driver’s license from the Turkish Security Directorate, Traffic Department (Emniyet Müdürlüğü, Trafik Hizmetleri Başkanlığı).
• A vehicle can be brought into Turkey for up to six months. Find information at the Turkish Touring and Automobile Club.

Public Transportation:  Major cities in   Turkey have extensive public transportation options including taxis, subways, ferries, trains, buses and mini-buses. Licensed cabs are metered. Between cities, Turkey has bus routes, train, and air services.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:   The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Turkey’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Turkey’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Turkey should also check U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings website  - select “broadcast warnings”.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Turkey . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Travel Guide Turkey

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A mesmerizing mix of the exotic and the familiar, Turkey is much more than its clichéd image of a “bridge between East and West”. Invaded and settled from every direction since the start of recorded history, it combines influences from the Middle East and the Mediterranean, the Balkans and Central Asia. Mosques coexist with churches, Roman theatres and temples crumble near ancient Hittite cities, and dervish ceremonies and gypsy festivals are as much a part of the social landscape as classical music concerts or football matches.

Where to go in Turkey

Who are the turks, tailor-made travel itineraries for turkey, created by local experts.

4 days  / from 1050 USD

Sensational landscapes of Cappadocia

3 different modes of transportation to explore Cappadocia - by hot air balloon, on the back of a camel as well as on an ATV quad. Why choose if you can have it all? Four days filled with fun and adventure in the volcanic valleys around Cappadocia make an unforgettable trip.

5 days  / from 1100 USD

City & culture - Istanbul and Cappadocia

Explore two absolute highlights in Turkey - Istanbul, the former capital of the Ottoman Empire with its many landmarks. After a few days in the city, fly to Cappadocia and explore the surreal surroundings, either on day tours or from above in a hot air balloon.

9 days  / from 2500 USD

Magical Turkey

Visit Gobekli Tepe and Mount Nemrut in Southeastern Anatolia before proceeding to Cappadocia with its volcanic scenery. After a few days in the valleys, continue to Pamukkale and the ancient city of Ephesus. Your tour starts and ends in Istanbul.

6 days  / from 1400 USD

Delightful Turkey

A fast-paced itinerary for those who want to discover as much as of Turkey as possible in under one week. Highlights include the Old Town of Istanbul, the valleys of Cappadocia, the birth of Sufism and the historical city of Ephesus.

22 days  / from 7879 USD

Cultural Turkish Odyssey

Embark on a 22-day journey through Turkey's rich tapestry of culture and history. From Istanbul's enchanting blend of Asia and Europe to ancient wonders, coastal gems, and the captivating landscapes of Cappadocia, this tour immerses you in the treasures of Turkey.

10 days  / from 3543 USD

Discovering Turkey

Discover Turkey's treasures in 10 unforgettable days. Explore Istanbul's heritage, walk the ancient streets of Ephesus, and soak in the natural wonders of Pamukkale and Cappadocia. An epic journey through history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes awaits.

7 days  / from 1850 USD

A week in Istanbul

Explore Istanbul's treasures in 6 captivating days. From historic landmarks to culinary delights and cultural experiences, immerse yourself in this enchanting city.

8 days  / from 1965 USD

Hiking in the valleys of Cappadocia

Embark on a 7-day Turkish odyssey filled with breathtaking hikes, cultural immersion, ancient marvels, and blissful relaxation. Your unforgettable adventure begins here!

9 days  / from 3630 USD

Turkish Treasures: A Journey through History, Culture, and Natural Wonders

Embark on a captivating journey through Turkey's treasures. Explore Istanbul, and ancient Ephesus, marvel at Pamukkale's surreal terraces, savor local delights, and unwind in Bodrum's vibrant nightlife. An unforgettable adventure awaits.

The friendliness of the Turkish people makes visiting a pleasure; indeed you risk causing offence by declining invitations, and find yourself making friends through the simplest of transactions. At the big resorts and tourist spots, of course, this can merely be an excuse to sell you something, but elsewhere, despite a history in which outsiders have so often brought trouble, the warmth and generosity are genuine.

Politically, modern Turkey was a grand experiment, largely the creation of one man – Kemal Atatürk. With superhuman energy, he salvaged the Turkish state from the wreckage of the Ottoman Empire and defined it as a modern, secular nation. Following 2011’s record-breaking third successive election victory by the AKP (Justice and Development Party), largely supported by conservative Muslims, some secular Turks fear an Iranian-style Islamic theocracy. This seems most unlikely, however, in a country that has been a multi-party democracy for over sixty years, and successfully blended secularism, parliamentary democracy and global capitalism with Islam.

Despite official efforts to enforce a uniform Turkish identity, the population is remarkably heterogeneous. When the Ottoman Empire imploded, refugees streamed into Anatolia, including Muslim Slavs, Greeks, Albanians, Crimean Tatars, Daghestanlis, Abkhazians and Circassians. There they joined an already mixed population that included a very sizeable minority of Kurds. Thanks to recent arrivals from former Soviet or Eastern Bloc territories, that diversity endures. Another surprise may be Turkey’s sheer youthfulness: more than half the population is under thirty, with legions of young people working in coastal resorts, and shoals of schoolkids surging through the city streets.

A huge part of Turkey’s appeal lies in its archeological sites, a legacy of the bewildering succession of states – Hittite, Urartian, Phrygian, Greek, Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Armeno-Georgian – that held sway here before the twelfth century. From grand Classical cities to hilltop fortresses and remote churches, some still produce exciting new finds today. In addition, Turkey holds a vast number of graceful Islamic monuments, as well as intriguing city bazaars, still hanging on amid the chain stores and shopping malls. Sadly, ugly modern architecture spoils most coastal resorts, where it’s often hard to find a beach that matches the tourist-board hype. Inland Turkey, with its Asiatic expanses of mountain, steppe, lake, and even cloud-forest, may leave a more vivid memory, especially when accented by some crumbling kervansaray , mosque or castle.

Western Turkey is the most economically developed, and most visited, part of the country. It would take weeks even to scratch the surface of the old imperial capital, İstanbul, straddling the straits linking the Black and Marmara seas, and still Turkey’s cultural and commercial hub. Flanking it on opposite sides of the Sea of Marmara, the two prior seats of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa and Edirne, abound in monumental attractions and regal atmosphere. Beyond the Dardanelles and its World War I battlefields lie Turkey’s two Aegean islands, Gökçeada and Bozcaada, popular for their excellent beaches, lingering Greek-ethnic identity and (except in midsummer) tranquillity.

Further south, the olive-swathed landscapes around Bergama and Ayvalık epitomize the Classical character of the North Aegean. Ancient Sardis, and the old Ottoman princely training-ground of Manisa, also make a fine pair, although İzmir serves merely as a functional introduction to the central and southern Aegean. Celebrated Ephesus tends to overshadow the equally deserving ancient Ionian sites of Priene and Didyma, or the intriguing ruins of Aphrodisias and Labranda – and don’t overlook evocative hill towns like Şirince or Birgi. Also inland are tranquil, islet-dotted Bafa Gölü, the architectural showcase town of Muğla, and the compelling geological oddity of Pamukkale, where travertine formations abut Roman Hierapolis. While the coast itself is heavily developed, its star resorts – Datça is the quietest, Bodrum the most characterful – make comfortable bases.

Beyond the huge natural harbour at Marmaris, the Aegean gradually becomes the Mediterranean. Coastal cruises make popular pastimes in brazen Marmaris or more manageable Fethiye, the principal town of the Turquoise Coast, while fine beaches stretch at Dalyan and Patara, near eerie ancient Lycian tombs. Further east, Kaş and Kalkan are busy resorts, good for resting up between explorations of the mountainous hinterland. Beyond relatively untouched Çıralı beach, at ancient Olympos, fast-growing Antalya sprawls at the start of the Mediterranean Coast proper.

This is graced by extensive sands and archeological sites – most notably Termessos, Perge, Side and Aspendos – though its western parts get swamped in season. Beyond castle-topped Alanya, however, tourist numbers diminish; points of interest between Silifke and Adana include Roman Uzuncaburç and the romantic offshore fortress at Kızkalesi. Further east, Arab-influenced Antakya is the heart of the Hatay, culturally part of Syria.

Inland in South Central Anatolia, the rock-hewn churches, subterranean cities and tuff-pinnacle landscapes of Cappadocia await you. The dry, salubrious climate, excellent wine, artistic and architectural treasures, plus horseriding or hot-air ballooning could occupy you for ten days, including a stop in Kayseri on the way north. You might also pause at the historic lakefront towns of Eğirdir or Beyşehir, or in Konya, renowned for its Selçuk architecture and associations with the Mevlevi dervishes.

Ankara, Turkey’s capital, is a planned city whose contrived Western feel indicates the priorities of the Turkish Republic; it also features the outstanding Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. Highlights of surrounding North Central Anatolia include the bizarre temple of Aezani, near Kütahya; the Ottoman museum-town of Safranbolu; exquisitely decorated early Turkish monuments in Divriği; and remarkable Hittite sites at Hattuşaş and Alacahöyük. As you travel north, pause in the Yeşilırmak valley towns of Sivas, Tokat and Amasya. The lush shoreline of the Black Sea beyond holds little more than a chain of Byzantine-Genoese castles; the oldest, most interesting towns are Sinop, Anatolia’s northernmost point, and Amasra. Fabled Trabzon, east of Sinop and once the seat of a Byzantine sub-empire, is now convenient for Aya Sofya and Sumela monasteries.

The Ankara–Sivas route positions you to head along the Euphrates River into the “back half” of Turkey. First stop in Northeastern Anatolia is likely to be Erzurum, Turkey’s highest and bleakest major city, a base for visits to the temperate, church-studded valleys of southern medieval Georgia, or treks in the Kaçkar mountains. Kars is mainly visited for the sake of nearby Ani, the ruined medieval Armenian capital.

The Euphrates and Tigris basin have a real Middle Eastern flavour. Booming Gaziantep, offers world-class Roman mosaics, an atmospheric old quarter and Turkey’s spiciest cuisine. Further east, biblical Urfa is distinguished by its colourful bazaar and sacred pool, while cosmopolitan Mardin overlooks the vast Mesopotamian Plain.

The major attraction, however, is a dawn or sunset trip to Nemrut Dağı’s colossal ancient statues. Between Mardin and Nemrut Dağı, teeming, ethnically Kurdish Diyarbakır nestles inside medieval basalt walls. The terrain becomes increasingly mountainous towards the Iranian frontier, an area dominated by the unearthly blue, alkaline expanse of Lake Van. Urartian, Selçuk and Armenian monuments abound within sight of the water, in particular the exquisite, restored Armenian church on Akdamar islet.

The east-shore city of Van is notable for its massive camel-shaped rock punctured with ancient tombs. Beyond Van looms the fairy-tale Kurdish castle of Hoşap, while just outside Doğubeyazit, another isolated folly, the İshak Paşa Sarayı, stands in the shadow of Mount Ararat at the very end of Turkey.

Top image: Aerial view of Bodrum on Turkish Riviera © monticello/Shutterstock

Discover more places in Turkey

• The North Aegean Travel Guide
• North Central Anatolia Travel Guide
• Northeastern Anatolia Travel Guide
• The Turquoise Coast Travel Guide
• Around the Sea of Marmara Travel Guide
• The Black Sea coast Travel Guide
• The Mediterranean coast and the Hatay Travel Guide
• South Central Anatolia Travel Guide
• İzmir Travel Guide
• Pamukkale Travel Guide
• The Turkish Aegean islands Travel Guide
• Ankara Travel Guide

Most camels in Turkey are simply tourist attractions, used for pleasure rides or as photo props in places like Pamukkale and Side. It wasn’t always so, however. Camel caravans once crisscrossed Anatolia, transporting gemstones, spices and woven finery. Before the Balkan Wars of 1912–13, they extended northwest as far as Bosnia, beyond which the beasts fell ill due to the damp central European climate.

In Muslim folklore the perceived haughty demeanour of the animals is attributed to their knowledge of the hundredth, mystical epithet of Allah – humans only know the conventional ninety-nine.

The sport of camel wrestling is a quintessentially Turkish spectacle. The bizarre sight of male camels in rut, butting and leaning on each other (their mouths are bound to prevent biting) draws vast crowds across the western Aegean region; there’s even a camel wrestling league.

• Turkey covers a vast 814,578 sq km (97 percent in Asia, 3 percent in Europe). Four seas lap its 8333-km coastline : the Mediterranean, the Aegean, the Marmara and the Black Sea. Numerous peaks exceed 3000m, the highest being Ararat (Ağrı Dağı; 5165m). Turkey’s three longest rivers – the Kızılırmak, Yeşilırmak and Sakarya – flow into the Black Sea, while its largest lakes is Lake Van (3713 sq km).

• The population of over 70 million is 98 percent Muslim (Sunni or Alevi), with dwindling minorities of the Armenian Apostolic or Catholic, Greek Orthodox, Syrian Orthodox and Jewish faiths. Besides standard Turkish, two dialects of Kurdish are widely spoken; other languages include Arabic, Laz, Circassian, Albanian, Macedonian, Bulgarian, Romany and Greek. Well over half the inhabitants live in cities; the four largest are İstanbul, Ankara (the capital), İzmir and Adana.

• Turkey’s economy , rated sixteenth in the world in 2011, has undergone sustained growth in recent years. Inflation has fallen to single digits, inward investment rocketed, major infrastructure projects have been realised at an astonishing rate, and the Turkish lira has more than held its own with the major currencies.

• Since 1922 Turkey has been a republic . The single-chamber Grand National Assembly (Büyük Meclis) in Ankara has 550 seats, and elects the president.

Find out more facts about Turkey.

Between April and September, storks are a common sight across Turkey, which forms a stopover between the birds’ winter quarters in Africa and their summer habitat in the Balkans and central Europe. The clattering of their beaks is an equally common sound. Storks mate for life, and around thirty thousand breeding pairs are believed to visit Turkey, often returning to the same nest year after year to raise new chicks.

Considered lucky in both Christian and Islamic belief, and dubbed “pilgrim birds” in Turkish, they are rarely harmed. Some municipalities even build special platforms to augment the storks’ favourite nesting perches, which range from chimneys and minarets to utility poles.

Today’s Turks are descended from nomadic pastoralist Turkic tribal groups that originated in Siberia, China and Central Asia, went on to conquer the Anatolian landmass, and have subsequently intermarried on a large scale with the region’s already extremely heterogeneous population. Although historical records can trace them as a readily identifiable people as far back as the sixth century BC, only during the sixth century AD were they first recorded (by the Chinese) as “Tu-keh” or, to the west, Turks .

From around 1000 AD onwards, the Turks gradually migrated southwards and westwards. By the time they reached Anatolia, which would eventually become the heartland of the mighty Ottoman Turkish empire, most had converted to Islam . Turks still maintain ethnic, linguistic and cultural links with Turkic peoples in Central Asia, the Caucasus, northwest Iran, northern Iraq, southern Russia, and Xinjiang in western China.

Turkish , the official language of the modern Republic of Turkey, is neither Indo-European nor Semitic in origin, but Altaic , a language group that includes Japanese, Korean and Mongolian as well as the Turkic languages. Turkish Turks can still communicate with their ethnic and linguistic cousins in places like Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, even if centuries of isolation from them, and the language reforms instituted by Atatürk in the early years of the Turkish Republic, make the task difficult. Nonetheless, Turks today still feel an affinity with their Turkic kin, and the Turkish government is the first to kick up a fuss at, for example, Chinese mistreatment of its Uigur Turkish minority.

Travel advice for Turkey

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Turkey

• Culture and Etiquette in Turkey
• Eating and drinking in Turkey
• Getting around Turkey: Transportation Tips
• Shopping tips for Turkey
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Turkey
• Travel Tips Turkey for planning and on the go
• How to get to Turkey
• Travel Health Turkey
• Travelling with children in Turkey
• Best time to visit Turkey

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

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Travel Turtle

Travel News & Magazine

Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency appointed to UNWTO Board of Directors

Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) joins the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Board of Directors as an Affiliate Member for the 2022-2025 period. RepresentingTürkiye, TGA is expected to have a decisive role in the World Tourism Organization’s goals towards the development of sustainable and resilient tourism.

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), a United Nations agency and the leading international organization in the field of tourism, has completed appointments to its Board of Directors of Affiliate Members for the 2022-2025 period. Commissioned by UNWTO Secretary-General ZurabPololikashvili, the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) joins the Board of Directors of Affiliate Members.  

In his commissioning letter, the Secretary-General noted that the TGA is a strong and important partner and will contribute significantly to UNWTO issues such as tourism management and the promotion of destinations in the post-Covid-19 period.  Pololikashvili also said that he expects that the TGA’s knowledge and experience will add value to the work of the Board of Directors of Affiliate Members.

TGA Will Be Represented by Deputy General Manager Dr ElifBalcıFisunoğlu

Dr ElifBalcıFisunoğlu, Deputy General Manager responsible for Tourism Operations and Development, will represent the TGA on the Board during the 2022-2025 period. Dr Fisunoğlu has more than 25 years of experience in the travel and tourism industry and has served at TGA since January 2020.

In addition to the TGA, the Croatian National Tourist Board, the Japan Tourist Bureau (JTB) and the BASQUETOUR- Basque Tourism Agency (Spain) also join the Board of Directors of the Affiliate Members. The new Board will elect a chairperson and vice presidents during its first official meeting in January 2022.

Affiliate Members:  A Global Information Exchange Platform UNWTO Affiliate Members include more than 500 companies, educational institutions, destinations and non-governmental organizations operating in the tourism sector. UNWTO Affiliate Membership offers members an opportunity to engage in dialogue, share information and take further action. Its principal mission is to foster synergies among Affiliate Members and Member States and to promote the exchange of knowledge among key stakeholders with the objective of contributing to the promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Affiliate Members gain enhanced visibility in the local, national and global sphere via the UNWTO network and channels.

Every two years, Affiliate Members elect a total of twenty members to the Board of Directors, eight in the “Global” and twelve in the “Regional” categories. In addition, the UNWTO Secretary-General appoints three members to the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors of Affiliate Members operates as the advisory board of the Secretary-General of the UNWTO and ensures that the Affiliate Members contribute to the UNWTO objectives, mission, and general work program.

In addition to institutions such as TripAdvisor, IATA and the World Association of Tourist Guides, there are a total of six members from Türkiye, including the Turkish Association of Tourism Investors (TTYD), the Turkish Hoteliers Federation (TUROFED), the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB), Bosphorus University, and the Concorde De Luxe Resort Hotel.

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“Triangle of success” to promote green tourism in Turkey

August 17, 2021.

Photograph: Eren Korkmaz

Enerjisa, Sabancı University and UNDP join forces to transform Küçükköy into a model of environmental sustainability

Ayvalık, 11 August 2021 – Tourism is a vital economic sector for Turkey, but current business models pose a threat to the rich natural environment that makes the country such an attractive destination. That is why Enerjisa Enerji, Sabancı University and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have joined forces to develop a “green destination model” and pilot efforts to infuse energy efficiency, the use of renewable energy and other sustainable practices into tourism businesses in Küçükköy, a promising tourism location along Turkey’s Aegean coast in the Ayvalik district, which already hosts one million visitors each year.

With an 18-month timetable, the initiative aims to develop a scalable, replicable and sustainable tourism implementation model that will reduce use of fossil fuels while expanding the application of renewables, a field where Turkey’s potential remains largely untapped. The joint effort to create a Centre of Sustainable Energy-Based Tourism Implementation (SENTRUM) in Küçükköy is just the beginning: the results of the pilot will be applied in other locations.

“We are delighted that Sabancı University has forged a triangle of success with UNDP and Enerjisa,” said Güler Sabancı, Chair of the Board of Directors of Sabancı Holding and the Founding Board of Trustees of Sabancı University. “The University’s philosophy is based on joint development. Our objective is to educate students to respond to and live within and for society. Our partnership with UNDP and Enerjisa reflects this outlook and we will accomplish wonderful things for this world in unity and cooperation.”

Tourism is a key sector of the Turkish economy, contributing an estimated 12.7 percent of GDP in the last pre-pandemic year of 2019. Ensuring the environmental, social and economic sustainability of the tourism sector is thus among Turkey’s national development priorities.

“Tourism is a sector with rich potential for Turkey” said Louisa Vinton, UNDP Resident Representative in Turkey. “But there is a real risk this potential will be wasted if we continue to violate environmental limits. Our aim is to help tourism firms become friends of nature.”

Kıvanç Zaimler , President of Sabancı Holding Energy Group and Chair of the Board of Directors of Enerjisa Enerji said “Every step we have taken for more than 90 years under the umbrella of Sabancı Group is illuminated by our vision of giving back to these lands what we have taken from these lands. Based on this vision, the scope of our project will not be limited to tourism businesses, buildings and museums in the region; it will be aimed to increase the awareness of the people of the region and local and foreign tourists visiting the region on energy efficiency and sustainable tourism.”

With funding from Enerjisa, UNDP will prepare a destination-specific socio-economic and environmental plan for Küçükköy; a situation analysis for local tourism enterprises on energy saving, energy efficiency and use of renewable energy resources; a sustainable production and consumption strategy; and a green procurement and supply chain management strategy.

Promoting green energy is just one part of the sustainability equation, however. Building on UNDP’s integrated approach, the initiative will also seek to ensure that local communities reap benefits from tourism. Here opportunities for women will be in focus: for example, UNDP will provide local women with training in energy audits and energy consultancy for tourism businesses in an effort to overcome the gender gaps that are standard in the energy sector.

To ensure local ownership and inclusiveness, project activities will also engage municipal and provincial authorities, NGOs, universities and local communities. To this end, UNDP will set up a SENTRUM Coordination Office at Sabancı University’s Creative Technologies Atelier in Küçükköy. The Office will promote knowledge about energy efficiency and renewable energy.

Enerjisa Energy will incorporate project results into its initiative “İşimin Enerjisi (Energy of My Business),” which promotes energy efficiency, renewables and reducing carbon emissions.

* For Sustainable Development Goals: kureselamaclar.org

Please follow this link for the photographs.

Contacts:  Nur Akıncı, UNDP Turkey, [email protected]

ENERJİSA , or Enerjisa Enerji A.Ş. as an associated company of Sabancı Holding and E.ON Energie, has since its inception in 1996 been operating on two main business lines of power distribution and selling with a focus on operational excellence. Connected to 10.1 million clients in 14 provinces and serving over 21 million users, Enerjisa Enerji significantly contributes to sustainability through its technology-based and solution-oriented power distribution investment and operations. Aiming to create higher value to shareholders, clients, employees, suppliers and the society through seizing new opportunities in the sector, Enerjisa Enerji achieved the largest private public offering in Turkey by offering 20% of its shares for public trade on 8 February 2018 which have since been listed on Borsa Istanbul.

Located at Küçükköy, Ayvalık, Sabancı University’s Creative Technologies Atelier aims to educate individuals aspiring to generate solutions to sustainable development challenges. Women and children of 8 to 15 years of age are priority beneficiaries of science and technology training provided at the Creative Technologies Atelier.

UNDP partners with people at all levels of society to help build nations that can withstand crisis, and drive and sustain the kind of growth that improves the quality of life for everyone. On the ground in 177 countries and territories, we offer global perspective and local insight to help empower lives and build resilient nations. tr.undp.org

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Türkiye Develops a National Sustainable Tourism Program with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC)

Türkiye develops a national sustainable tourism program with the global sustainable tourism council (gstc)..

Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) has signed a collaboration agreement with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). The signing of the agreement marks an exemplary step toward sustainability as Türkiye (Turkey) becomes the first government in the world to develop a mandatory national program with the GSTC. Thanks to the new program, the Turkish tourism industry will accelerate its global sustainability practices.

The Turkish tourism industry will be restructured with the 3-year agreement signed with the GSTC, which manages the global standards in sustainable tourism, known as the GSTC Criteria . In the first stage of the agreement, which Türkiye signed as a government with the utmost gravity towards sustainability, the national program criteria will be determined and inspection firms will receive training. The first stage of the program will become operational in 2023. The second stage will be carried out gradually in 2025. The program is planned to be concluded by 2030, when all international standards will be met.

Bringing Türkiye to the forefront in sustainable tourism, the agreement will also help achieve the goals of The Paris Agreement, signed by Türkiye at the end of last year. As of 2022, Türkiye launched a transformation towards sustainability in the tourism industry and the collaboration with GSTC will highlight the country as a strong competitor in the international arena, while helping Türkiye catch up with international tourism trends.

Türkiye has taken an extensive series of measures with regards to transportation, accommodation, food and beverage, and congress facilities as well as the well-being and health conditions of passengers/guests and employees with the Safe Tourism Certification Program, which was implemented in 2020 and the first of its kind in the world. Nearly 12,000 facilities have been granted the Safe Tourism Certification so far. Within the scope of the program, the tourism industry, especially the accommodation facilities, will be subjected to both safe and sustainable standards. As of April 2022, accommodation facilities will gradually start to implement sustainable practices.

Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) stated that TGA is very aware of the need for a transformation towards sustainability within the tourism sector as Türkiye is steeped in nature and traditional heritage, and the protection of our environment is of utmost importance. “Thanks to our work with GSTC, our visitors will have the chance to enjoy a responsible holiday in Türkiye, and our industry and partners will have the necessary tools to achieve responsible tourism.”

“TGA has impressed us very much with their plans for a highly comprehensive approach to moving Türkiye’s tourism sector to more sustainable forms. As such, we’re delighted to support their systematic approach with our standards and programs,” says Randy Durband, GSTC CEO.

About the GSTC

The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) establishes and manages global sustainable standards, known as the GSTC Criteria. There are two sets: Destination Criteria for public policy-makers and destination managers, and Industry Criteria for hotels and tour operators. These are the guiding principles and minimum requirements that any tourism business or destination should aspire to reach in order to protect and sustain the world’s natural and cultural resources, while ensuring tourism meets its potential as a tool for conservation and poverty alleviation.

The GSTC Criteria form the foundation for Accreditation of Certification Bodies that certify hotels/accommodations, tour operators, and destinations as having sustainable policies and practices in place. GSTC does not directly certify any products or services; but it accredits those that do. The GSTC is an independent and neutral USA-registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization that represents a diverse and global membership , including national and provincial governments, leading travel companies, hotels, tour operators, NGO’s, individuals and communities – all striving to achieve best practices in sustainable tourism.

Information for media and the press: https://www.gstcouncil.org/about/for-the-press/

About Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA)

Founded on July 15, 2019, Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) is dedicated to delivering Türkiye as a brand and a popular destination in both domestic and international tourism markets; discover, develop and promote tangible and intangible natural, cultural, biological and manmade heritage assets; boost the tourism capacity of Türkiye, increase the rate of tourism investments in the national economy and raise the quality of service with short, medium and long term communication and marketing activities.

In line with tourism strategies and policies set by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Agency will carry out all promotion, marketing and communication activities to serve Türkiye’s tourism goals, promote and market current tourism opportunities across the globe as well as discover, improve and establish potential areas of tourism. Operating under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Agency is subject to private law provisions. The Agency is made up of the Board of Directors, Executive Board, and Advisory Board, with the Board of Directors serving as the decision-making body. The Board of Directors comprises of 15 members chaired by the Minister of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye.

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‘Is it sensible, safe or even good taste to visit Turkey now?’ A local guide offers advice

A tour leader finds that, beyond the areas devastated by the earthquake, the country is open for business and keen that visitors keep coming

T he desperate plight of those hit by the recent earthquakes in south-east Turkey and northern Syria, where the death toll now stands close to 50,000, moved many in Britain to donate towards the rescue effort.

Though such displays of foreign sympathy and generosity have been widely welcomed in Turkey, there is concern that the quakes may cause tourists to reconsider their Turkish holiday plans this year. In my own case the earthquakes occurred in the week that I was to lead a winter tour of Istanbul and Cappadocia. Prior to the disaster, we had arranged for two of our guests to continue on a private tour that would have taken them right through the area destroyed by the earthquake.

As a travel writer who has been leading small-group cultural tours to Turkey for a decade, I am practised at pondering the wisdom of visiting in times of Turkish trouble, regrettably frequent in this otherwise exceptional country, be it on account of Islamic or separatist terrorism, security clampdowns, civil unrest, attempted coups or refugee crises. But this was my first experience of how we should respond to a natural disaster. The question was whether it was sensible, safe or even in good taste to push on with our visit at a time of overwhelming national tragedy.

I was quick to commiserate with my contacts in Turkey, many of whom had lost friends and colleagues, and were clearly in shock. Guide, archaeologist and lecturer Yunus Ozdemir, who runs our tours, revealed that he had lost five students who had been training as tourist guides in Adiyaman, one of the worst-hit cities. Even so, he and others were clear that there was no raised danger to our guests from earthquake activity in either Istanbul or the volcanic hinterland region of Cappadocia; nor did they think our partners and suppliers there – hoteliers, drivers, guides and others – would thank us for cancelling out of respect. In the event, all 11 of our guests decided after some consultation to go ahead.

Even at a time like this, our Turkish hosts proved typically hospitable – as obliging, attentive and keen as ever to serve us. That may be because Turkey’s current turmoil is also economic, with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan ’s unorthodox fiscal policies widely blamed for a rapidly devaluing lira and soaring prices, not least for food and other staples. And with Brits alone making 3.8 million visits to the country in 2022, many Turks are highly dependent on tourism for their livelihoods. Ersin, one of the reception staff at Istanbul’s Régie Ottoman hotel, was not only grateful that our group had come but admitted that he and his colleagues were worried at the prospect of mass cancellations in the months ahead.

For some years we have run tours to Turkey, not only in the warmer months but in the winter when the queues, considerable for much of the year, are blissfully absent at major sites like Istanbul’s Topkapi Palace and Cappadocia’s Open Air Museum. Another draw is that the winter weather, though obviously unpredictable, can be lovely for exploring. As it happened, we enjoyed a succession of bright and dry days, in contrast with the vicious cold which had gripped the country, to fatal effect, at the time of the worst quakes.

Not that the earthquake was ignored. It remained headline news all through our stay. On street corners digital displays detailed phone lines for donating in a range of currencies. Flight announcements were prefaced by expressions of national condolence and wishes for the country’s speedy recovery. In passenger lounges, the State Airport Authority displayed photographs of staff members lost to the quake. In Cappadocia, sufficiently near the epicentre (close to Gaziantep) that the quakes were strongly felt, hotels and restaurants had been quick to host and feed those made homeless by the quakes.

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“Naturally there were questions about enjoying a holiday in a country suffering so much,” said guest Dawn Reid, from Bath. “But what we experienced was an exceptional welcome and hospitality everywhere we went.”

For Gabrielle and Mike Abbott of Chichester, who were to have extended their stay travelling in the area fated to be hit by the earthquake, we set about creating an alternative itinerary. “We were shocked by news of the earthquake,” said Gabrielle, “Not least because our guided tour was to have passed through Antakya, Gaziantep and Urfa. As it was, our hosts rerouted us to take in Konya and Antalya, along with lots of fabulous ancient sites and hikes along the Mediterranean coast. Although we are saddened by the terrible events in the south-east, we have been made very welcome and have been having a wonderful holiday here.

Our tour showcased much that is exceptional about Turkey: the astonishing wealth of cultural sites, the fabulous food and the charming people. One afternoon we hiked along Cappadocia’s snow-covered Rose Valley, home to some of the region’s most arrestingly beautiful geological formations. We stopped at the foot of one of Cappadocia’s many rock-carved churches where Emin single-handedly runs a little cave cafe. He brought us freshly squeezed pomegranate juice and made a point of thanking us for coming.

“You are always welcome,” he said. “And especially in the winter when the work is thin.” The message was clear: beyond the areas devastated by the earthquake, Turkey remains firmly open for business.

Jeremy Seal is the author of A Fez of the Heart and other travel books on Turkey

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Turkey travel warning to UK holidaymakers as Foreign Office issues update

Areas to avoid and threat of terrorist attacks reiterated as more than a million brits plan to head off on a turkish summer break, article bookmarked.

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Holidaymakers travelling to Turkey this summer have been warned against visiting certain areas of the country, in updated travel advice from the UK government.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) “advises against all travel within 10km of the border with Syria” and “advises against all but essential travel” to the city of Sirnak and the Hakkari province (both in the south of the country, also near the Syrian border). It also clarifies that “no travel can be guaranteed safe” and anyone visiting Turky should purchase suitable travel insurance.

While not a huge departure from the previous advice, it highlights the political turbulence in a country already struggling in parts following t he 5.6 magnitude earthquake earlier this year . It’s also worth remembering that the majority of holidays in Turkey are without trouble.

The FCDO told The Independent : “The safety of British nationals is always our main concern in determining our travel advice. We constantly review our travel advice for each country or territory to ensure it includes up-to-date information and advice on the most relevant issues for British people visiting or living there.

“The changes to the terrorism section of each Travel Advice page reflects the fact that global terror threat is now more diverse and not limited to those inspired by Islamist ideologies.

“FCDO Travel Advice is just that – advice. It provides information to help British nationals make informed decisions about foreign travel but we cannot enforce it and it remains a decision for individuals whether they feel it is safe for them to travel”.

What are the entry requirements for Turkey?

UK nationals visiting Turkey must have a passport that is valid for at least 150 days from the date you arrive, and it must have at least one full blank page for entry and exit stamps. If you are entering turkey via a land border, make sure your passport has a dated entry stamp before you leave the border crossing.

Anyone visiting Turkey for tourism or business for up to 90 days in any 180-day period does not need a visa. However, if you need to remain in Turkey for more than 90 days, apply for a longer stay visa or get a residence permit before the end of your 90-day stay.

It is worth noting for the future that Turkey is not one of the countries where visitors will need an ETIAS travel permit from next year onwards.

Local laws and customs

There are local laws that tourists should be aware of. It is illegal not to carry some form of photographic ID in Turkey, and smoking is illegal on public transport and in all indoor workplaces and public places.

It is also illegal to insult the Turkish nation or the national flag, or to deface currency. This can include comments about the Turkish state, and carries a prison sentence of between 6 months and 3 years.

Remember to dress modestly if you’re visiting a mosque or a religious shrine, and do not take photographs near military or official installations.

While homosexuality is legal in Turkey, the FCDO warns that “many parts of Turkey are socially conservative and showing affection in public could result in unwelcome attention”.

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What is a tourist board? A SIMPLE explanation

Disclaimer: Some posts on Tourism Teacher may contain affiliate links. If you appreciate this content, you can show your support by making a purchase through these links or by buying me a coffee . Thank you for your support!

A tourist board is an important type of travel and tourism organisation that makes up a key part of the structure of the travel and tourism industry . But what is a tourist board, what does this organisation do and why are tourist boards so important? Read on to learn more…

What is a tourist board?

What type of organisation is a tourist board, what does a tourist board do, national tourist boards, regional tourist boards, local tourist boards, what is a tourist board: further reading.

A tourist board is a tourist organisation that is founded with a view to promoting and creating the identity, and to enhance the reputation of tourism in a particular location. They are official organisations that encourages tourists to visit a particular city, country, or region. 

A tourist board is a not for profit organisation that is usually government owned. This means that the focus is on providing a service to the general public, as opposed to making a direct profit. However, indirectly, tourist boards do help to make money for the country because their aim is to promote the tourism industry, which in turn brings in revenue. Tourist boards are publicly funded, meaning that the money needed to operate comes from money that is raised through taxation. Tourist boards operate within the public sector.

A tourist board is generally a point of information for consumers or tourists. The primary aim is to promote tourism in a particular area. They may do this through a range of marketing initiatives including targeted campaigns and advertisements. Tourist boards may run adverts on TV and place advertisements on bus shelters or on the tube, for example. Tourist boards have also been known to partner with influencers such as bloggers and Instagram influencers who will promote the destination to their followers. Sometimes these can be sizeable campaigns.

Tourist boards will also provide information about a specific area, including transportation options, popular tourist attractions , and types of accommodation available in the area. Tourist boards also provide information about the history and the culture of a specific area.

Behind the scenes, tourist boards also do a lot of work to help manage and facilitate the tourism provision in a particular area. Some of their duties may include:

• Conducting market research
• Analysis and appraisal of tourism business in the area
• Liaising with other Governmental organisations
• Managing tourist representative and the provision of tourist information
• Cooperation with tourist boards in other destinations
• Developing the tourism provision in the area

Different levels of tourists boards

There are different levels of tourist boards that focus on different levels of tourism, I will explain each of these below.

National tourist boards oversee tourism at a national level, in other words, they are responsible for tourism throughout the country, or the nation. National tourist boards typically set the agenda for tourism and support the sector to improve what is has to offer. National tourist boards provide funding and help to promote a positive image of the country. They will also work closely with other areas of Government at a national level.

Examples of national tourist boards include Visit Britain , Amazing Thailand and Incredible India .

Regional tourist boards are organisations that are in charge of promoting and managing tourism at a regional level. Regional tourist boards will often work closely with national tourist boards. Their main role is to lead the regional tourism strategies in the area. Regional tourist boards will collaborate with local authorities, tourism businesses and other organisations to undertake a range of marketing, product investment and business support activities within the travel and tourism industry.

A local tourist board is a tourist board that focusses on a specific local area. Many local tourist boards will support local tourism groups and associations that help to bring together the private and public sector. Local tourist boards will address issues at grass roots and will demonstrate a higher level of understanding of tourism in a particular area than a national or regional tourist board will. They will work closely will the local authority and local Government.

Local tourist boards will often have responsibility for tourist information centres. These are centres that provide a range of information to tourists on attractions, accommodation, hospitality options etc within the local area. There will often be trained staff who work at the tourist information centres who are able to advise and help tourists. There may also be a small gift shop onsite.

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Beautiful by nature, our sister islands.

Crystalline turquoise waters and white sand beaches are trademarks to the over forty islands and cays that make up the ‘Beautiful by Nature’ TCI. Considered the World’s best kept secret, the TCI are an easy escape – with an ease of connectivity from Miami, New York, Toronto or London. Each island and cay in the archipelago is a destination on to its own. We welcome visitors to enjoy our pristine and inviting beaches, experience our luxurious accommodations, indulge in our world class spas, treat yourself to delectable dining in paradise and revel in our culture and local traditions.

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The Turks and Caicos Islands is located in the West Indies, consisting of an archipelago of islands – lying on the southeastern periphery of the...

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The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is delighted to announce that TCI are now using its ‘Safe Travels’ stamp .

The specially designed stamp enables travellers to recognise destinations around the world which have adopted health and hygiene global standardised protocols – so they can experience ‘Safe Travels’.

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Turkey opts for new tightening strategy after signaling a pause to hikes

• The country's central bank sent a directive to lenders, effective Friday, instructing them to put parts of their required lira reserves into blocked accounts.
• That's pushed loan rates up higher and cut the sizes of some banks' loan limits.
• "Some banks have stopped lending. Some banks even recall their already granted loans. This is going to cause further liquidity squeeze," one Istanbul-based economist told CNBC. 

Turkey's central bank is opting for a different monetary tightening method as it grapples with climbing inflation, after previously signaling that its rate-hiking cycle was over.

The institution sent a directive to lenders, effective Friday, instructing them to put parts of their required lira reserves into blocked accounts.

That's pushed loan rates up higher and cut the sizes of some banks' loan limits, with some lenders shrinking their commercial loan limits to 100,000 lira, or $3,100, Reuters reported Thursday.

"Some banks have stopped lending. Some banks even recall their already granted loans. This is going to cause further liquidity squeeze," Arda Tunca, an Istanbul-based economist at PolitikYol, told CNBC. 

"If a central bank is willing to reduce the rate of inflation, liquidity conditions should be squeezed for sure, but the methodology is of utmost importance," he said. "If the methodology is wrong, market expectations can't be managed."

Indeed, Turkish bank stocks dipped after the news Thursday. Economic data platform Emerging Market Watch posted on X, describing the central bank as taking "another tightening step via reserve requirements."

Analysts at London-based firm Capital Economics made similar observations.

"In the past month, new quantitative and credit tightening tools have been announced," the firm wrote in a research note. "Last week the CBRT tightened  restrictions on lira loan growth , a move that would likely have a similar impact to an interest rate hike." 

Meanwhile, Turkey in January recorded its first monthly drop in reserves since May 2023, according to balance of payments data released this week.

Turkish annual consumer price inflation soared to 67.07% in February. The strong figures have fueled concerns that Turkey's central bank, which had indicated last month that its painful eight-month-long rate-hiking cycle was over, may have to return to tightening.

"Pressures on Turkish policymakers are building ahead of the local elections on 31st March as capital inflows have slowed and FX reserves are falling again," Capital Economics wrote. "We doubt the central bank will hike interest rates next week, but we're growing more convinced that at least one further hike will be delivered in Q2."

— CNBC's Dan Murphy contributed to this report.