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​25 Essential Things to Know About Turkey Before Visiting

By: Author Tiana Thompson

Posted on Last updated: September 20, 2023

Categories Europe , Travel Guides , Turkey

Home » ​25 Essential Things to Know About Turkey Before Visiting

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Ah, Turkey – The bridge between East and West, where Europe meets Asia, and where ancient ruins cozy up to bustling bazaars.

But before you pack those bags and head on a journey of a lifetime, buckle up for a crash course (minus the crash) on what to expect when you step foot on Turkish soil for the first time.

These 25 Essential Turkey Travel Tips will tell you everything you need to know before planning a trip to this beautiful country for the first time.

What is Turkey famous for?

If we’re boiling it down (like a good Turkish tea), the country of Turkey is renowned for its rich history, majestic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque , and its prime position bridging Europe with the Middle East.

Culture & History

For many, the best thing is the medley of cultures, where ancient traditions merge seamlessly with modern vibes, especially in major cities. And hey, if you haven’t considered a hot air balloon ride over the lunar landscapes of Cappadocia , trust me – it’s been on everyone’s Instagram feed for good reason.

But let’s dive a little deeper, shall we? Imagine taking a road trip through time, where every pit stop offers a snapshot of eras gone by. From the vestiges of the Ottoman Empire to the echoes of the Byzantine epoch in Istanbul’s architectural wonders – it’s a bit like stepping into a living, breathing history book.

And, oh boy, the Turkish cuisine! If you haven’t daydreamed about biting into a piece of baklava, you’ve got some pre-trip homework to do. Turkey is also the birthplace of many famous foods like Doner Kebab, Smit, and (of course) Turkish Delight. I could go on and on about the delicious food scene in Turkey, but I’ll save that for another post. But trust me, a trip here is worth it for the food alone!

Diverse regions

And then there’s the palette of places. Beach lovers, rejoice! The Aegean coast boasts some of the best beaches, while adventurers might gravitate towards eastern Turkey for a touch of the wild. In recent years, Turkey has also seen a surge in popularity among travelers, and why wouldn’t it? From beautiful beaches to mouthwatering street food and the fragrant waft of Turkish coffee – it’s a sensory carnival!

⚡ Related Read: Is Istanbul Safe? Common Scams & Safety Tips for Travelers

25 Essential Things to Know Before Going to Turkey

1. Turkey actually crosses two continents

Pop quiz! Name one city that gets to have its cake (or should we say baklava?) and eat it too? Yep, it’s Istanbul.

While most major cities can’t decide on which café is the best for brunch, Istanbul is busy straddling both Europe and Asia . And you thought deciding on where to have breakfast was tough! This geographical marvel is split by the Bosphorus Strait.

So, technically, you could enjoy a Turkish breakfast in Europe and top it off with some black tea in Asia, all before noon! If that’s not the best way to start your day, I don’t know what is. But keep your travel insurance handy, just in case you trip crossing continents – we wouldn’t want that, now would we?

2. Language

Merhaba! That’s “hello” in Turkish, and it’s probably one of the first words you’ll hear when you land.

While the vast melody of the Turkish language may initially sound like a hit song you can’t get out of your head, you’ll soon find its rhythm endearing. The official lingo here is, you guessed it, Turkish. And while navigating the touristy parts of Istanbul or Antalya, you’ll find many speak a fair amount of English.

But here’s a pro-tip: you will win hearts instantly by peppering your conversations with a few Turkish words.

Even if you mess up and accidentally order five kebabs instead of one (is that really a mistake though?), locals will appreciate your efforts. After all, who can resist a traveler trying to ask for “more baklava, please” in broken Turkish?

So, go ahead and add a dash of  “teşekkür ederim”  (thank you) here and a sprinkle of  “evet”  (yes) there. It’s the best way to dive headfirst into the authentic Turkish experience. 

3. Currency

When it comes to spending your hard-earned moolah in Turkey, you’ll be dealing with the Turkish Lira (TRY). These colorful notes with images of prominent historical figures might feel like Monopoly money, but trust me, they’re your ticket to all things scrumptious and shiny in local bazaars.

While Turkey loves its Lira, it’s not dismissive of the mighty credit card. Big cities and most tourist spots roll out the red carpet for Visa and MasterCard.

But if you’re venturing off the beaten path or diving into the world of street food and souvenirs, cash is king. So, keep some notes tucked away for those impromptu ice creams or that irresistible handwoven rug you just  have  to take home.

4. Visa and Entry

So, you’ve packed your bags, learned some choice Turkish phrases, and you’re all set to embark on your Turkish journey. But wait, can you actually enter the country? That’s where the visa dance begins.

Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Turkey. Some can waltz right in, while others may need to do a bit of paperwork cha-cha beforehand.

Always – and I mean  always  – check the visa requirements well in advance. The official Turkish government website or your home country’s embassy site are great places to start.

And if you find out you need one, don’t fret. The process is usually straightforward, and many nationalities can even get an e-visa online. Just ensure all your travel plans are in line with visa guidelines. Remember, nobody wants to be that person who planned their entire vacation only to get stuck at the Istanbul airport sipping (albeit delicious) Turkish tea. Do your homework before you book!

💡 Note : Americans, for example, will need a visa to visit Turkey. It can be purchased online as an e-visa or at the airport on arrival, and is valid for a maximum 90-day stay in Turkey. 

5. Culture and Etiquette

Turkey is a place where rich history meets warm-hearted folks and the vibes are just  right . Turkish people are like that perfectly brewed cup of Turkish coffee – warm, inviting, and sure to leave an impression. When you step foot in this beautiful land, you’ll be embraced by their legendary hospitality.

But, like attending any great party, there are some house rules to follow. Visiting a mosque, for instance? Think of it like going to someone’s home. Dress modestly, covering up those sun-kissed shoulders and knees. Those stylish shoes? Leave them at the door. It’s tradition (and just plain politeness) to take your shoes off when entering someone’s home in Turkey, and especially so in a place of worship.

And ladies, you might need to don a headscarf; think of it as the cherry on top of your cultural immersion sundae. An open mind, paired with a sprinkle of respect for local customs, will truly be your best travel buddy. So, when in Turkey, do as the Turks do. Dive deep into the culture, and who knows, you might even find yourself partaking in a traditional dance in the surrounding area of a beach resort!

6. Religion

At the heart of Turkey’s vibrant cultural tapestry lies its deep-rooted religious heritage. With the majority of its population identifying as Muslim, Islam plays an intrinsic role in shaping the nation’s traditions, customs, and daily life.

As you explore Turkey, you’ll find yourself amidst a rhythmic dance of faith that resonates from the bustling streets of Istanbul to the tranquil Aegean coast. Central to this rhythm is the Azan, the call to prayer that reverberates from mosque minarets throughout the country.

Occurring five times daily, the Azan acts as a sacred reminder for Muslims to pause, reflect, and connect with the divine. For visitors, this melodic call offers a profound glimpse into the spiritual heartbeat of the nation. Each call, with its distinct cadence, paints the sky from the break of dawn until the cloak of night, punctuating the day with moments of reflection.

7. Haggle in Bazaars

In many large markets in Turkey, bargaining is part of the culture. Don’t be shy to negotiate prices. Step into places like the Grand Bazaar, and you’ll realize it’s not just a market but a gladiator arena for your bargaining skills.

Forget the price tags; here, your negotiation flair is your best weapon.

Imagine trying to snag the last piece of baklava at a family gathering; that’s the energy you need! Turkish vendors expect a bit of playful haggling, a tug of war of prices mixed with warm smiles and maybe even a cup of rich Turkish tea.

The first price? Think of it as the opening act of a great play. Don’t be shy; throw in your counter, maybe share a joke about how this isn’t your first time at the haggling rodeo. And while you might not always snag that rug or lantern at half-price, you’ll walk away with a story, a smile, and perhaps a new friend in the heart of Istanbul.

Remember, it’s all in good fun and very much a part of the vibrant Turkish market culture. That being said, keep in mind the state of Turkey’s economy, and the work they put into making the items they are selling, which are often homemade. The U.S. dollar goes a long way in Turkey, and if you have the extra dollars to spare, don’t try to haggle for the lowest possible price.

8. Public transport is the best option in big cities like Istanbul

Navigating Istanbul, with its sprawling urban expanse, might initially seem daunting, but fear not! The city boasts a remarkably efficient and diverse public transportation system, ensuring you can hop from one iconic site to another with ease.

Whether you’re cruising on the Bosphorus via a ferry, speeding underground on the metro, gliding above streets on trams, or zigzagging through neighborhoods on buses, Istanbul offers it all.

For those on the move, the Istanbulkart is your golden ticket. This nifty prepaid card is like the Swiss army knife of public transport, allowing seamless transitions across the various modes of transportation. Simply top it up at various kiosks or vending machines around the city, and you’re good to go.

Not only is it cost-effective, but it also saves you the hassle of purchasing individual tickets. So, whether you’re headed to Taksim Square or diving deep into the historic quarters, let Istanbul’s public transport whisk you away on a journey of discovery.

9. Try local Turkish cuisine 

A culinary journey through Turkey is like flipping through the pages of a rich, aromatic history book. Turkish cuisine is a symphony of flavors and traditions passed down through generations.

Kebabs, with their perfectly marinated and grilled meats, are a testament to the nation’s mastery over fire and spice. As you walk the bustling streets, the aroma of baklava might beckon—thin pastry layers generously filled with nuts and sweet syrup, ensuring a delightful crunch in every bite.

And Turkish delight – or lokum – offers a soft, chewy experience, often laced with rose or lemon flavors and dusted with icing sugar.

To wash it all down? Nothing beats the robust experience of Turkish tea or coffee. The coffee, thick and strong, often leaves a memorable mark, while the tea, served in tulip-shaped glasses, is a daily ritual. Dive into local restaurants or street food stalls, and let your taste buds embark on a Turkish culinary odyssey.

10. Tipping is not expected (but it is appreciated)

When it comes to showing appreciation in Turkey, tipping, locally known as “ bahşiş ,” plays a pivotal role. Picture this: you’ve just had a sumptuous meal at a local restaurant, sipping the last drops of your Turkish tea. Now, it’s time to settle the bill.

Tipping, while not obligatory, is a customary gesture to acknowledge good service in restaurants, cafes, and even during taxi rides. Generally, leaving around 5-10% of your total bill is considered polite. If you’ve had an exceptional experience, feel free to tip a bit more. In taxis, rounding up to the nearest lira or simply handing a small note makes the cut.

Remember, it’s not just about the money; it’s a nod of appreciation, a way to say “Teşekkürler” or “Thank you” for the service rendered.

11. Opt for bottled water

When it comes to quenching your thirst in Turkey, going bottled is the best way. While Turkish cities generally have well-treated and chlorinated tap water, the unfamiliar minerals and slight differences in treatment might not sit well with everyone’s stomach, especially those of visitors who aren’t accustomed to it. Even many locals prefer bottled water for drinking purposes.

You’ll find a variety of brands available in supermarkets, convenience stores, and kiosks scattered across streets. If you’re environmentally conscious, consider buying larger jugs of water and refilling a reusable bottle as you go. This not only reduces plastic waste but also ensures you always have fresh water at your disposal.

For those adventurous souls hiking or exploring rural areas, always carry a good supply with you. Remember, it’s not just about thirst—it’s about ensuring you stay hydrated and healthy during your Turkish escapade.

12. Know which adapters you need

If you’ve got a myriad of gadgets to charge or hair tools to plug in, here’s your electrical primer for Turkey. The country utilizes the European-style two-pin round plugs, categorized as Type C and Type F.

These plugs are common across many European countries, but it’s always wise to double-check your devices before you travel. With a standard voltage of 220V and a frequency of 50Hz, Turkey is on par with much of Europe.

If your devices aren’t compatible, investing in a universal travel adapter is a smart move. These are readily available at airports or electronic stores. It ensures you can keep your devices juiced up and ready to capture every mesmerizing moment of your journey.

13. Local Time

If you’ve ever wondered where Turkey sits on the world’s time map, the answer lies in the Eastern European Time (EET) zone. This means when you set your watches or reset your phone’s time setting, you’ll be aligning with cities like Bucharest, Athens, and Helsinki.

Operating 3 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+3), Turkey does not observe daylight saving time. So, whether you’re marveling at the beauty of Cappadocia’s hot air balloons at sunrise or losing yourself in the bustling streets of Istanbul by night, it’s one consistent time throughout the year.

A tip for travelers: Always adjust your devices upon arrival to ensure you’re in sync with local timings, from museum openings to train departures. Time, after all, is of the essence when you’re on an adventure!

14. Shoes Off Indoors

When in Turkey, do as the Turks do—and that often means leaving your shoes at the door! This age-old custom is deeply rooted in Turkish culture. When entering someone’s home, it’s not just about cleanliness but also about respect.

By removing your shoes, you’re honoring the sanctity and purity of the household. If you’re invited to a local’s home (and given the warm Turkish hospitality, there’s a good chance you might be), you’ll often find a lineup of family footwear just outside or inside the entrance. Sometimes, hosts might provide slippers or indoor shoes for guests. It’s a beautiful tradition that showcases the significance of home as a revered space.

As a visitor, always err on the side of respect and assume the “shoes-off” rule applies unless told otherwise. Pro-tip: this makes wearing socks without holes an excellent idea when visiting Turkey!

15. Hamams (Turkish Bath)

For those seeking an authentic Turkish experience that’ll leave you rejuvenated from head to toe, a visit to a Hamam is a must. Descending from the Roman bath culture and infused with Islamic rituals, these traditional Turkish baths are a blend of history, culture, and pure relaxation.

Stepping into a Hamam, you’ll find a central dome under which bathers relax on a heated marble platform, known as the “göbek taşı.” Here, amidst steam and ambient light, you’ll be exfoliated and massaged by attendants, scrubbing away travel fatigue and leaving your skin feeling baby soft. But it’s more than just a spa treatment—it’s a centuries-old social tradition.

Whether you’re in a lavish Hamam in a big city or a modest one in a smaller town, the experience remains deeply rooted in a sense of community and relaxation. Wrap up with a refreshing Turkish tea, and you’ve got yourself an experience of a lifetime!

16. Stray cats are everywhere

Anyone who’s visited Istanbul will affirm: the city is as much a haven for history enthusiasts as it is for cat lovers!

The streets of Istanbul are graced with feline friends that have become an integral part of the city’s charm. Whether lounging by the Hagia Sophia, prowling around the Blue Mosque, or napping in a cozy café corner, these cats are more than just strays—they’re a beloved part of the community.

Local tales often say that these cats are the true “kings and queens” of Istanbul. Residents and shopkeepers alike take pride in feeding them, providing makeshift shelters, and sometimes even setting out beds and toys.

The love affair between Istanbul and its cats is so profound that it’s even inspired a documentary, “Kedi,” celebrating these furry rulers of the city. For travelers, these cats provide not just Instagram-worthy moments but also showcase the heart and soul of Istanbul—a blend of history, culture, and compassionate coexistence.

17. Buy a local SIM Card

Let’s face it: staying connected is a crucial part of our modern travels. Whether it’s navigating the bustling streets with Google Maps, snapping and uploading that perfect sunset shot, or keeping in touch with loved ones back home, a reliable internet connection can be a game-changer.

If your stay in Turkey stretches beyond a fleeting visit, investing in a local SIM card can be both economical and practical. Turkish mobile networks offer impressive coverage, even in remote areas, ensuring you’re never truly “off the grid” (unless you want to be!). Major providers like Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom have a variety of prepaid plans to cater to tourists.

Once in Turkey, purchasing and activating a SIM is straightforward and can often be done right at the airport or any mobile store in major cities. With data in hand, you’re all set to dive deep into the Turkish experience without any connectivity woes.

💡 Note : Remember to ensure your phone is unlocked before your journey! If not, you will not be able to use a local Turkish SIM card in your phone.

18. Turkey has many diverse regions

Turkey, in its grandeur, is a mosaic of unique regions, each painting a different story. Beyond the famed domes and minarets of Istanbul lie myriad experiences awaiting intrepid travelers.

Picture the sun-kissed beaches of Antalya, where turquoise waters of the Mediterranean offer solace to sun-seekers. Venture inland to the fairy-tale landscapes of Cappadocia, where ancient rock formations stand tall, often dotted with hot air balloons painting the dawn sky.

Head further east, and you’ll encounter the rugged beauty of Eastern Anatolia.

Each region, be it the Aegean coast with its ancient ruins and olive groves or the bustling metropolis of Ankara, presents a unique facet of Turkey’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. So, when planning your Turkish vacation, think beyond the usual and let the country’s diverse regions enthrall your wanderlust.

19. Try Raki, a traditional Turkish drink

Raki is an iconic Turkish spirit that’s as much a drink as it is an embodiment of Turkish conviviality. This anise-flavored alcoholic drink is sometimes called “lion’s milk” and is a popular Turkish spirit. It’s often enjoyed with meze (small dishes) and is typically diluted with water, turning it milky white.

This anise-flavored drink is more than just a beverage; it’s a ritual. Often sipped alongside a spread of meze—delicious small dishes ranging from seafood to fresh salads—it’s an experience that stimulates both palate and conversation. The key to enjoying Raki is to take it slow. Dilute with water, serve it chilled, and savor every sip.

As locals would attest, drinking Raki is about cherishing the moment, the company, and the myriad flavors of Turkish hospitality. So, next time you find yourself in a traditional “ meyhane ” (tavern) with a glass of Raki in hand, raise a toast to the timeless Turkish tradition of celebrating life’s simple pleasures.

20. Avoid Excessive Public Displays of Affection

While Turkey is a modern country, it’s good to be aware that overt public displays of affection, especially in more conservative regions, can be frowned upon. Turkey, a progressive nation at the crossroads of Europe and the Middle East, has been swaying between its traditional values and global influences.

While it’s not uncommon to see young couples holding hands in Istanbul’s trendy districts or the beach promenades of Bodrum, overt displays of affection, like long embraces or passionate kisses, can raise eyebrows, especially in smaller towns or more conservative regions. This doesn’t mean the Turkish people are cold or indifferent; they are warm-hearted and hospitable. Still, they prefer expressing affection privately.

So, while you’re soaking up Turkey’s rich heritage, it’s wise to keep the public smooches on a low profile and reserve them for more private settings. This small gesture will only enhance your experience and understanding of this beautiful country’s intricate social tapestry.

21. Istanbul is not the capital

While the intoxicating allure of Istanbul often steals the limelight, Ankara, the capital city, has its understated charm and significance. Nestled in the heart of Anatolia, Ankara is a blend of the old and the new.

The city has seen civilizations come and go, from the Phrygians to the Romans, leaving their indelible marks. Among its many attractions is the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. Anıtkabir, as it’s called, is not just a historical site but a symbol of the country’s modern aspirations. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is another gem, giving visitors a deep dive into the region’s rich history.

But Ankara isn’t just about the past. The city pulsates with a dynamic energy, evident in its bustling markets, contemporary art scenes, and modern architecture. Exploring Ankara gives travelers a more comprehensive understanding of Turkey, showcasing the balance between its illustrious past and its forward-looking future.

22. Respect the dress code

Embracing different cultures often means respecting local norms, and in Turkey, dressing plays a pivotal role, especially when visiting religious or conservative areas. Turkey is predominantly Muslim, and while its cosmopolitan cities showcase a broad range of fashion, traditional values hold strong in its heartland.

When visiting religious sites like mosques, modesty is key. Women are advised to wear long skirts or pants, and it’s customary to cover the head with a scarf. Men should opt for long pants and sleeved shirts.

But it’s not just about the religious sites. If you’re venturing into the countryside or lesser-known towns, it’s wise to dress a bit more conservatively to respect local sensibilities. However, in beach resorts or big cities, you’ll find a more relaxed attitude.

Always pack a mix of clothing – from comfortable jeans and tees for urban exploration to modest attire for cultural immersion. Respecting the dress code isn’t just about following rules; it’s about immersing oneself genuinely in the Turkish experience.

23. Beware of the Shoe Shine Scam

Navigating through Turkey’s bustling streets is generally a delightful experience, with warm smiles and rich culture. However, as in many tourist destinations worldwide, there are occasional tricks to watch out for. A quirky one is the “shoe shine scam.”

Picture this: You’re walking, and a shoe shiner in front of you accidentally drops his brush. Being the kind-hearted traveler that you are, you pick it up and hand it back to him. In gratitude, he offers to shine your shoes for free. However, once the deed is done, he might insist on a hefty fee, much to your surprise. It’s essential to stay vigilant and be aware of such subtle cons.

If you encounter this, a polite but firm decline for the shine should suffice. The Turkish people are genuinely warm and hospitable, but as with all popular tourist destinations, it pays to stay alert and aware of common scams.

24. ATMs and Currency Exchange

Money matters when you’re on the go! In Turkey, ATMs are pretty much everywhere, especially in major cities like Istanbul and Ankara. Before embarking on your Turkish adventure, inform your bank to avoid any unexpected account freezes – nobody wants a blocked card while on vacation.

While major credit cards are accepted at many establishments, especially in metropolitan areas, cash is king when you dive deeper into the heart of Turkey. Whether you’re haggling in the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul, buying a handmade souvenir in a smaller town, or indulging in delicious street food, having Turkish Lira on hand is prudent.

Currency exchange offices are common in tourist areas and often offer better rates than airports or hotels. As always, it’s wise to check the current exchange rates and count your change.

25. Preservation of Sites

Turkey is a treasure trove of history, a meeting point of civilizations, from the ancient Hittites to the Byzantines and Ottomans. When you stand before the grandeur of sites like Ephesus or the rock churches of Cappadocia, it’s like stepping into a time machine. These sites, bearing witness to millennia of history, are protected for a good reason.

When visiting, it’s crucial to remember that we are temporary stewards of these wonders. Touching ancient artifacts or climbing on historical structures might seem harmless, but over time, such actions can degrade these treasures. Respect barriers, follow guidelines, and heed the advice of site custodians.

Think of it this way: by preserving today, we ensure that future generations can also marvel at these windows into our shared past. Let’s be responsible travelers and cherish these gifts from antiquity.

Thanks for reading!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tiana (@wheretianatravelss)

Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!

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• Middle East
• Travel Tips & Tricks

Tips For Turkey Trip Planning: A First-Timer’s Guide (2023)

I once saw someone describe Turkey as “bewitching”, and that feels about right.

Over the past few years, Turkey has become one of my absolute favorite countries to visit…one of those places that pulls you back over and over.  It’s steeped in millennia of history and culture, has everything from crazy fairy landscapes to gorgeous turquoise beaches, from ancient tombs to Ottoman mosques.  The people are warm and welcoming.  The food is BOMB.

And it’s giant…so with so much to choose from and such a big area, doing some solid research on Turkey trip planning is important.

Planning a trip to Turkey??  Here are some posts to help you out!

What to Do in Istanbul if You Only Have 24 Hours  (or  even 5 Hours )

Turkey’s Turquoise Coast:  Exploring Fethiye & Oludeniz

A First-Timer’s Guide To Cappadocia, Turkey

20+ Turkish Foods You Have to Try

How To Plan An Epic 7-Day (Or 10-Day) Turkey Itinerary

A Detailed Packing List for Travel in Turkey (& the Whole Middle East)

Or explore all my Turkey posts!!

I’ve laid out everything I can think of that you might need to know about planning a trip to Turkey, including what to pack, how to plan an itinerary, cultural considerations, transportation, safety, and more.  I know you’ll fall in love with this amazing place and its people just as much as I have!

How this post is structured:

• A super brief history
• Safety thoughts
• Important considerations (visa, currency, etc.)
• What to wear
• Where to stay
• How to get around

Areas of Turkey

• Planning an itinerary
• All sorts of other stuff (food, souvenirs, language, miscellany)

A (super brief) history

Turkey is a relatively young country from a political or national standpoint (founded in 1923), but the people, history, and culture have been established there for thousands of years.

Many people think of the Ottomans (who dominated the region from the Middle Ages until the early 1900s), but many civilizations from Assyrian to Hittite to Persian and Greek and Roman have settled here over the millennia.

Because of this melting pot of cultures and layers of history, you can find everything from Byzantine palaces to Roman amphitheaters to ancient Lycian tombs to Hittite ceramic traditions to World War I battlefields.  Turkey has something for seriously everyone when it comes to history.

Fun fact that even I forget frequently:   Istanbul isn’t the capital of Turkey, Ankara is.

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Is Turkey safe to visit?

This is a common question, and definitely one I had before my first trip (my mom was also freaked out).  Obviously, no place is “safe” unequivocally, but you may have some preconceptions about Turkey from the news that aren’t as true.  While bad things can happen anywhere, I’ve felt very safe there, including as a solo female traveler.

The first time I visited Istanbul was in 2016, and @farewhispers and I ran into a few different types of protests or demonstrations given the unrest at the time.  We always just headed in a different direction if we came upon something that felt off.

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And I’d say that anywhere, really.  Just like you should anywhere you go, stay alert and listen to your instincts, particularly in places with heavier tourist and Westerner crowds.  You should also take normal precautions against pickpockets and other petty crime, just like with any travel.

Istanbul is like any big city, so treat it so.  Out in the more remote areas I found it very chill and felt as safe as I do anywhere.  It’s recommended you avoid the border area of Turkey with Syria, as this is where a lot of the violence has been concentrated in recent years.  My boat captain told me I was being crazy and that the area is amazing and no less safe than anywhere else, but I’m sure my mom would disagree 🙂

For women, I’ve found Turkish men in Istanbul (especially in the crowded touristy places) fairly persistent in calling after you, even walking beside you trying to get your attention and they flirt pretty aggressively.  However, I’ve found them to be remarkably good-natured about it when you brush them off and I never felt unsafe (this isn’t true everywhere I’ve been).  It’s like that whole back-and-forth (including the brush-off) is part of the “dance”.

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Important trip planning considerations

[Update: As of late December 2023, no e-visa is required for US citizens] Turkey requires visitors from many countries (including the U.S.) to get an e-visa .  This is super easy though, and can be purchased ahead of time from this official website (only $20 last I checked).  Just make sure to take a screenshot or download the PDF, because they don’t email it to you.  You can get it when you arrive, but might have to wait in line for a while.

The currency is the Turkish lira.  Credit cards are easily accepted in Istanbul and other smaller cities, but in more remote areas it will rely more on cash.  You should always have some cash anyway.  I always use ATMs to get cash out rather than using a money exchange.  This post gives detailed tips for how to handle money overseas .

As you start to build your itinerary, you’ll need to do some digging into when certain things are open or closed .  For example, most mosques are closed or have very restricted hours on Fridays, so it’s not the best day to plan visits to them.  Hagia Sophia is closed Mondays.  Also make sure to check and see if you’re traveling over any public or religious holidays , as these can make things more complicated and places might be closed.

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What to wear in Turkey

This is a common question, particularly for women travelers.  Turkey is a Muslim-majority country, but is more secular and less conservative than others, particularly in a major city like Istanbul.  In Istanbul you can kind of dress however you want, but I’d still avoid skimpier outfits to better fit in and not draw attention to yourself.  Plus, if you’re visiting mosques that will cause you issues.

Overall from a cultural respect standpoint I’d dress a little more on the conservative or modest side for women.  Just keeping skirts from being too short, tops from too revealing, etc.  On the Turquoise Coast you’ll definitely find people dressed like any normal beach town, and regular swimsuits and bikinis are fine.

Women do not need to wear a head scarf unless you’re entering a mosque (so I always just keep one in my purse when I’m in Turkey).  In fact it can be seen as disrespectful for non-Muslim, Western women to wear them around just because (or at least so I’m told).

See my detailed Middle East packing list , which has a ton of Turkey info

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Mosques specifically require some planning ahead.  Mosques will require women to have shoulders and upper arms covered, and knees as well.  I typically try to group my mosque visits together on one day and wear a long skirt and have a cardigan with me for safety (my headscarf can cover my shoulders as well).  Pants are fine, but I’ve seen mosques make women put skirts on over leggings or tight pants.

Men should wear pants (no shorts) and have their upper arms covered as well (no tank tops).

One other tip for mosques:  you’ll have to remove your shoes to enter, so bring some socks to walk around in.

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Where to stay (accommodation)

You have tons of different options in Turkey, from apartment rentals to hotels to villas (and more).  I’ve used Airbnb in the past to rent an amazing apartment in Istanbul, though Turkey has more strict rules for Airbnb hosts.  I love doing rentals though, and this is a great option.  I also rented a boat on Airbnb for a couple days on the Turquoise Coast and sailed with Sadi and Meryam…HEAVEN.

There are many great hotel options too, including lovely boutique and luxury hotels for really quite affordable prices.  I’ve raved about my stays in Cappadocia , Istanbul , and Fethiye , and the prices for hotels this nice were super reasonable.  I’m sure there are hostels but I’ve never looked into that.

One thing to be aware of is that hotel booking sites such as Booking.com are blocked once you reach Turkey, so I recommend booking your housing ahead of time.  Paypal is too.  I still booked my hotels through Booking.com for my last trip though, and just made sure I had the phone number in case I needed to get a hold of them.

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How to get around (transportation)

How you get around in Turkey is completely up to you, and there are many options.  Because of the large distances, flying is often easier and cheaper, and helps you make the most of your time in the country.  Where it would take 8 hours to drive from Istanbul to Cappadocia, it’s just an hour’s flight.  The only downside can be that most flights will require a connection in Istanbul.

Turkish Airlines is the national airline, and flies internationally as well as domestically.  They’re a great experience, and have frequently won awards within Europe.  There are several domestic and local carriers as well, including Anadolu Jet and Pegasus.  You can learn more here .

Driving in Turkey is a good option if you have a lot of time, and gives you lots of flexibility and ability to see lots of more out-of-the-way areas.  From what I’m told, the roads are pretty good and that roadtripping can be great.  I would NOT attempt to drive in Istanbul, though.

While there are buses that can take you throughout the country (including overnight), this wouldn’t be my first choice due to the great distances.  I’ve heard good things about the experience overall, however.

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Within towns and cities (including Istanbul), walking is a definite option…I love wandering through different neighborhoods.  Public transportation within Istanbul is great, whether that’s the tram/metro in the main areas, the funicular, or the ferry (which I *highly* recommend trying out).  Make sure you get an Istanbulkart card and then refill it.

Within Istanbul there are lots of taxis, but also LOT of scams.  There’s an app called BiTaksi that I’ve used and is great, lets you call or even schedule a taxi, know what your fare will be, and pay by credit card if you choose.  You can use Uber, though it’s more expensive.  There are official taxis at the airport that I do trust, and just make sure you know what the price is before you get in.

If you need a cab you can also go to one of the official taxi stands/ranks, and they should all use their meters…doesn’t keep them from taking the long way or scamming in some other way, but is more legit.

If you’re out in other areas of Turkey, you could consider hiring a taxi driver for a certain amount of time or all day to take you to a lot of places.  I did this in Cappadocia, got a taxi to my first place and then he offered to wait and take me around to other spots (some I wanted, and a couple he recommended that were less-known).  Trust your instincts and make sure you negotiate to what is a fair price on both sides, but this was a great option for me, and Osman and I had a fun afternoon!

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Turkey is giant.  To put it in context for people in the U.S., Turkey is a little bigger than the state of Texas…and *long*.  One of the most common mistakes people make is to try and cover too many different areas in one trip, particularly if that trip is less than two weeks.

Geographically, there are seven regions within Turkey, and each could give you a laundry list of reasons to visit and things to see.  If you’re planning your first visit to Turkey though, there are typically a handful of “must-see” places to put on a shortlist for your trip.  Here are a few thought starters…

• Istanbul :   Duh.  One of my favorite cities in the world, centuries of history, the previous capital of the Byzantine Empire (as Constantinople), the only city that straddles two different continents…I could go on and on.
• Cappadocia :   Located in the Central Anatolia region, this is one of the well-known places in Turkey.  It has a mystical cave-riddled landscape, with “fairy chimneys” popping up and hot air balloons rising in the sunrise every morning.  It’s a photographer’s dream and full of interesting history.
• The famous Turquoise Coast :   Turkey’s Mediterranean Coast is sheer heaven for those who love sparkling aqua water, sun, and that beach vacay feel.  It’s an iconic sailing destination, known for the traditional wooden gulet boats that cruise up and down the coast.  Run off the side of a mountain in Olüdeniz, one of the top paragliding destinations in the world.  Soak up the sun in a luxury hotel.  Expore ancient Lycian tombs.
• Ephesus:   One of the most complete, still-standing Roman cities you can visit, super cool, and an easy day trip from Istanbul if you so choose.  If you’re a bible scholar this is also super interesting.
• Pamukkale:   Dreamy white travertine terraced pools…though I feel like the reality of being there isn’t quite the same as the Instagram photos you see.  But it’s still on my list.

But these are seriously just thought starters because there is SO much to see and do.

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Planning a Turkey itinerary

To build on the last section, here are some ways you can start to think about planning a trip to Turkey and how an itinerary can come together.  My biggest Turkey trip planning advice is not to cram too much into your trip…you’ll just feel rushed and enjoy it a lot less!

I have a general post on my trip planning process that talks about the steps I take, tools and websites I use, and more.  I broadly talk about it as inspiration > research > reality .  And yes, that middle part is critical for planning a trip to Turkey due to its size and sheer amount of choice—research, research, research!

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What do you care about? 

Figure out what is drawing you to the country.  Is it a particular area, city, historical site, or experience?  Do some research and make a list, then prioritize.

Currently Turkey has 18 UNESCO World Heritage Site (with many more being nominated).  Then on top of that, the country has a breathtaking diversity of landscapes on offer.  If you’re looking for excitement, there are all sorts of active sports and hiking, including some of the best paragliding in the world.  You can stay in a cave hotel, do a multi-day sail, or learn how to make traditional Turkish foods.  It’s got stunning coastline and waters if you’re looking for a beach vacay.

See how I planned my last epic 7-day Turkey itinerary

How much time do you have? 

Knowing how much time you have can help you figure out how much you can fit in.  It’s also important to know your travel style and the type of trip you’re looking for…a rush of exploration and adventure, or maybe something super relaxing and chill.  I’m often looking to explore as much as possible, but on my last trip I also was celebrating a big birthday and wanted to spend a few super relaxing days on the coast.

Here are a few thoughts, just to give you a starting place:

• If you only have 2-3 days, pick one place and just focus there.  This is a perfect amount of time to see Istanbul for the first time, and then you don’t have to deal with lots of extra travel time.
• If you have closer to a week, then you can do two or three places, depending on travel logistics.  For instance, if you had five days you could probably do Cappadocia and a day or two in Istanbul.  Or Istanbul with a day trip to Ephesus or Gallipoli.  Or a few days on the coast with a day in Istanbul.
• If you have a week, I’d focus on just two places and do them well, but you could potentially squeeze in a third.  I had almost a week on my last visit, and spent two days in Cappadocia, three days on the coast, and a half day in Istanbul (the rest was travel/re-positioning).
• Make sure you build in travel time, due to the distance between areas.  If you’re flying between different places (or taking public transportation), allow for extra time as well, as flights can be delayed.

Don’t forget to build in time for spontaneous adventures or to just wander aimlessly.  Chat with a local, sit and drink a Turkish coffee and people watch, or wander down some side streets and window shop.

Then once you have a rough sketch of an itinerary, think about what might make it a little extra special.  My first time in Istanbul we took both a walking food tour on the Asian side and a food tour where we ate dinner in a local Kurdish family’s house—both such amazing experiences!  Whether a cool experience, something less-known/under the radar, or a unique accommodation, find one or two special pieces to include in your trip.

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What else??  All the rest of my Turkey trip planning tips

Okay, so now we’re getting to a somewhat miscellaneous collection of Turkey trip planning tips, but that doesn’t make them less important.  They just don’t group as naturally.

First, let’s talk about the food in Turkey.  IT IS SOOOOOO GOOD!!!  Turkish food has become one of my favorite cuisines, and it’s one of the things I love about exploring the country.  I’ve done a whole post on Turkish foods you have to try , and each time I visit I sample new ones.  Make time for food, and I highly recommend food tours as a way of trying a lot (but find ones that aren’t just crazy touristy).

Alcoholic beverages are interesting in Turkey.  They are 100% legal despite it being a Muslim-majority country.  You’ll find plenty of people who drink, but also many who don’t for religious reasons.  Binge drinking and overconsumption isn’t generally part of the culture, and they have VERY strict drunk driving laws.

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From what I’ve heard, I wouldn’t drink the tap water in Turkey, just to be safe (I’ve heard mixed reviews).  Stick with bottled water.

Public bathrooms are really hit and miss.  For women, you might get a regular, decent Western toilet, or you might get a hole in the ground.

There are two different types of outlet plugs that work in Turkey.  They also work on a 220v voltage, so if you’re from somewhere like the U.S. that typically works on 120v voltage, you should make sure to only bring electronics that can support 220v as well (or you’ll need a converter plug too).  Most modern electronics and small appliances are fine (though hair straighteners tend to be dicey).

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One thing I always research ahead of time is what to buy in certain countries, and the types of souvenirs I might want to take home.  Let me tell you, Turkey is dangerous for me!  I learned that I have a weird ceramics obsession that has never manifested anywhere else.  But the colorful ceramics are a must, and I also get my perfume in Istanbul.  From linens to spices to wine, there’s a lot here…here’s my guide to what to buy in Turkey .

I’ve never gotten it myself, but have heard from many people that the Turkey Museum Pass is 100% worth your time and money.  It currently costs 315 TL (about $55 USD), is good for 15 days, and is accepted at many museums and major archaeological sites in places like Istanbul, Ephesus, Pamukkale and Fethiye.  This post from Yoga Wine Travel gives more info on the pass and whether it’s worth it.  I’ve never gotten it because 1) I’m not a big museum person anyway, and 2) it doesn’t cover as much that I cared about.

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English isn’t widely spoken, especially outside of Istanbul.  It’s good (and quite frankly, polite) to learn some words in Turkish before you visit.  Here are a few to get you started!

• Good morning – Günaydın! – “goon eye dun”
• Thanks (formal) – teşekkür ederim – “tesh shecker uh dare um”
• Please – lütfen – loot fen
• May I please have? – ” ______ alabilir miyim, lütfen?” – “all uh ball eer me um” – used like “Bir birra alabalir miyim lutften”, may I please have one beer? It’s a little more polite than “birra, lutfen!” “Beer please!” How much? – Kaç para? – “kahtch par uh”

Are you ready to plan a trip to Turkey yet???

Have I convinced you that Turkey the most amazing place and you absolutely can plan an epic adventure?  Hopefully these Turkey trip planning tips and all my other posts on the country have given you everything you need for your own travel planning, but please don’t hesitate to give me a shout in the comments if you have any questions!  And check out my detailed post on planning my 7-day (or 10-day) adventure !

Other travel tips you need in your life:

• A Travel Bucket List for Your 30s
• Trip Planning Tips:  How to Make Every Trip a Little Epic
• The Best Travel Pillows for Different Sleepers
• 20+ Tips to Survive & Thrive on a Long Flight

Pin for later!

Comments (1)

July 9, 2022 at 10:21 am

Very well thought and informative page.

Will keep reading

We have 4.5 days in Istanbul on way to India

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Turkey Travel Guide

From the postcard-perfect beaches and mountain ranges, to its charming cobblestone streets that are perfect for sipping tea and having baklava.

Best time to visit Turkey

How to travel on a budget 11 tips, best places to visit in turkey, best things to do in cappadocia: a guide to the hot air balloons, best things to do in fethiye: turkey’s turquoise coast, istanbul’s must-see: the colorful houses of balat, 7 best things to do in kas, turkey, map of turkey, weather in turkey.

Turkey boasts diverse weather! Coastal areas enjoy a Mediterranean climate with hot summers, perfect for beach lovers. The inland areas experience continental weather, with cold winters and hot summers. Spring and fall are generally ideal nationwide, offering pleasant temperatures for sightseeing. So there's a perfect season for every Turkish adventure!

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11 best things to do in istanbul, turkey, best things to do in antalya, turkey (old town), best travel insurances, how to plan a trip.

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find Hostels via Hostelworld
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Turkey via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
• Get a Visa via iVisa
• How to pack light for your trip
• How to plan your trip our tips

Why is Turkey worth visiting?

From the lively city of Istanbul to the fairy-tale landscapes of Cappadocia , there are countless reasons to visit Turkey. With breathtaking scenery, rich history, intricate architecture, pristine beaches, and exceptional shopping, Turkey offers diverse experiences catering to every type of traveler.

Is Turkey cheap to visit?

Turkey boasts affordability that’s hard to match. Because it’s straddling both Asia and Europe, it’s much cheaper than many other nearby destinations. With free sightseeing opportunities, budget-friendly stays, and delectable street food, Turkey is a great European destination for those wanting to save some pennies!

Can I drink tap water in Turkey?

In major cities in Turkey, tap water is safe and refreshing to drink. However, sticking to drinking filtered water in more remote areas is advisable. Bring a reusable water bottle to keep hydrated on the go while being environmentally friendly.

Do I need a visa for traveling in Turkey?

Entry regulations vary by nationality; some countries, like the UK, France, and the Netherlands, enjoy visa-free stays for 90 days. However, citizens from countries such as Australia, Canada, South Africa, and the USA require an e-visa for a 90-day visit. Make sure to check your entry requirements in advance.

What language do they speak in Turkey?

Turkish is the primary language spoken throughout Turkey. While English is commonly used in tourist areas, having a grasp of basic Turkish phrases can enhance your cultural experience and foster connections with locals during your travels.

Do I need travel insurance for Turkey?

A vital necessity for every journey, travel insurance safeguards against medical emergencies and unforeseen travel disruptions, granting you the freedom to explore Vietnam with peace of mind. Discover the optimal travel insurance for a worry-free adventure.

Is Turkey safe?

Turkey is generally safe for travelers, but as always, take standard precautions. While some areas are best avoided, these are typically off the tourist path. Exercise common sense, and you’ll find warmth and hospitality in this captivating nation.

What power plug type does Turkey have?

Turkey predominantly uses the Type F plug with two round pins. Pack or buy an adapter at the airport to keep your devices charged as you explore the enchanting landscapes and historical wonders.

Why do people love Turkey?

It’s the allure of contrasts, from bustling markets to serene beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant bazaars. Turkey is a country that has it all: mouth-watering food, mesmerizing landscapes, rich history, and crazy adventures.

Travel to Turkey 

A vast country straddling two continents, Europe and Asia, Turkey is a captivating blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the sun-kissed turquoise coastline home to beautiful boutique hotels to Istanbul’s lively bazaars selling everything you could ever think of and more, traveling Turkey promises to be full of adventure!

How to plan your trip to Turkey

To plan the ultimate adventure, check out our Turkey travel guides ! Whether you’re looking for a beach break along the Turkish Riviera or backpacking around the country, our guides have you covered with everything you need to know for an unforgettable holiday in Turkey . 

To discover the best places in Turkey , we’d recommend staying for at least 2 weeks to experience a mix of fantastic beaches and to see the breathtaking balloons over Capadoccia . But if you have longer, make sure to visit Istanbul to explore the beautiful, colorful houses of Balat and enjoy lots of delicious street food. 

Planning an extraordinary vacation in Turkey ? Discover more about Turkey’s weather to choose the ideal time to explore this unique country! 

Spring & Autumn: For those seeking pleasant weather and fewer crowds, April to May and September to October would be the perfect time to visit for your Turkey holiday . During these months, temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, providing a comfortable environment to explore Turkey’s rich array of ancient sites. Additionally, this period brings festivals, with the International Istanbul Film Festival in April and the International Wine Festival in Cappadocia at the end of October, among others. 

Summer: If you’re a beach lover looking for sun and sand, the summer is the best time to visit Turkey , with the Turquoise Coast offering a haven for relaxation and swimming. However, avoid these peak summer months if you plan to explore historical sites, as the temperatures can soar, making it less enjoyable for outdoor activities. 

Winter: If you prefer a more serene experience, consider visiting during the winter months from November to March. While coastal areas may be closed due to the cold weather, it’s an excellent time to explore areas like Cappadocia , adorned with a snowy landscape creating breathtaking panoramas. January to March is particularly quiet, providing a unique opportunity to have destinations to yourself, although make sure to wrap up warm! 

In essence, the best time to visit Turkey depends on your interests. Whether you prefer spring’s lively colors, summer’s warmth, or winter’s tranquility, Turkey has something to offer year-round.

Coastlines and beaches in Turkey

Turkey’s 7,200 km coast unfolds with a diverse array of pristine shores and picturesque landscapes, the most prominent being the Turquoise Coast in southwest Turkey. 

Starting at Bodrum, a hotspot for holidaymakers, catering to a diverse range of beachgoers. Whether it’s the lively atmosphere of Gumbet Beach, the upscale vibes of Yalikavak, or the historic charm mixed with the modern allure of Bitez Beach, Bodrum has something for everyone.

Further along the coast is the enchanting town of Fethiye , arguably the hidden gem of the Turquoise Coast and one of the best places to visit in Turkey . Make sure to stop by Ölüdeniz nearby, renowned for its iconic destinations, Butterfly Valley, a natural marvel with a crazy drop to a white-sand beach, mainly visited by boat, and the Blue Lagoon, a hotspot for paragliders and water sports. 

If you’re a wildlife lover, Patara Beach near Gelemiş is the perfect stretch of coastline for bird watching and the chance to see the protected loggerhead turtles. As one of the longest sandy beaches in the Mediterranean, Patara Beach is backed by giant sand dunes and ancient ruins, offering a serene and historically rich environment.

For those seeking a beach with dramatic scenery, Kaputaş Beach near Kas is a must-visit. Hemmed in by steep cliffs, the beach features dazzling emerald waters and fine golden sand, creating a postcard-worthy setting for sunbathing and relaxation.

Near the end of the Turquoise Coast is Antalya , with many beaches to choose from. Nestled in the heart of the old town, Mermerli Beach offers a blend of history and relaxation. Konyaaltı Beach provides a lively atmosphere with cafes, shops, and stunning views of the Taurus Mountains. For a unique coastal spectacle, visit Lower Duden Waterfall (yes, there are two parts to this waterfall!) and watch it cascade into the ocean, creating a captivating natural display.

Food, culture and religion in Turkey 

Turkey, a country bridging continents, promises breathtaking landscapes and a delightful blend of flavors, religious influence, and cultural spectacles ready to be explored!

Cuisine: Prepare your taste buds for a Turkish feast that’s nothing short of a flavor fiesta! Turkish cuisine is a delightful mishmash of Ottoman, Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and Mediterranean influences, with each region having its own specialties. Dive into juicy kebabs, tempting mezes, and flaky baklava. Wander through vibrant bazaars, a sensory overload of spices, fruits, and sweets. And, of course, don’t miss out on the iconic Turkish breakfast – a feast of olives, cheeses, tomatoes, and more, ensuring you start your day on a delicious note.

Religion: With the majority of the population being Muslim, Turkey’s landscape is dotted with mosques that are not just places of worship but architectural wonders. The Blue Mosque in Istanbul is a showstopper, standing tall against the skyline. Despite being a secular state, the Islamic religion weaves seamlessly into daily life, with the soothing calls to prayer echoing through the streets. 

Culture: Turkey’s culture is shaped by its vast history. Areas like Istanbul , Ankara, and Cappadocia are living museums, showcasing architectural marvels such as Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Beyond architecture, traditional Turkish arts like calligraphy and miniature painting tell stories, and vibrant ceramics add creativity to the cultural landscape. 

Why You Should Travel to Turkey

Turkey has an irresistible blend of diverse things to do in Turkey, making it a must-visit destination for any type of traveler! 

Picture yourself soaring high on a scenic hot air balloon flight over the mesmerizing landscapes of Cappadocia, where fairy-tale-like rock formations and ancient cave dwellings create a surreal panorama—or relaxing in mineral-rich thermal waters at the cotton candy castle of Pamukkale. Turkey’s one-of-a-kind scenery is unmatched! 

For those seeking sun-soaked relaxation, Turkey boasts beautiful beaches along its stunning coastline, the perfect place to unwind with crystal-clear waters and golden sands. Or, if you’re more of a foodie, the country’s culinary scene is out of this world! With delicious cuisine that reflects its rich cultural heritage, from kebabs to baklava and huge breakfast spreads, eating local is a must! 

Venture into the heart of bustling markets and bazaars, and you’ll discover why Turkey is hailed for having the best shopping in Europe – make sure to leave enough space in your suitcase for the flight home! And once you’re all shopped out, head to a traditional Hamam, an unusual yet rejuvenating spa experience involving several cleansing rituals. 

Safety and travel advice in Turkey 

A vacation in Turkey promises to be full of amazing sights and experiences, but it’s essential to be prepared and aware to ensure a safe trip. The information below will help travelers get the most out of their adventure. 

Crime and Safety in Turkey : Turkey is generally safe for travelers, but petty theft can occur, especially in major cities and tourist hotspots, so exercise caution by securing your valuables and leaving non-essential items at home. Avoid isolated areas at night and prioritize well-lit, populated spots. There is a risk of terrorism, but mainly in areas that travelers don’t tend to visit. Make sure to follow the advice of local authorities and always stay vigilant. 

Find out more about travel safety.

Natural Disasters: While natural disasters are infrequent, Turkey can experience flooding, forest fires, and earthquakes. Stay informed by registering with your embassy and following directions of local authorities should a natural disaster occur. 

Driving in Turkey: Turkey’s roads can be busy and chaotic in populated areas and poorly maintained in remote, rural areas. Whether navigating through city traffic or taking in landscapes on quiet rural roads, always drive carefully, focus on the road, and stop if you get tired. 

Tip: Make sure to carry cash for toll roads, as many still don’t accept cards and will make you turn back. 

Travel Insurance: Prioritize your safety for all your travels by purchasing travel insurance. While Turkey is generally safe, unexpected events like accidents, flight disruptions, or baggage loss can occur. Having suitable travel insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection, ensuring you have a worry-free trip. Check out the best travel insurance for you.

Ultimate TURKEY Travel Guide

Turkey is a country located in the Middle East . Ankara is the capital and it is a country known for its culture, architecture, and diversity. Our Turkey travel guide is here to help you see the best it offers.

The main draw to the country is the outstanding combination of Mediterranean beaches and rich history that is spread across the land.

It is also hard to resist its lively cities, such as Istanbul and Antalya. Both of which offer and electric vibe and irresistible food scene.

A visit to Turkey will ignite your senses and put you straight into adventure mode. With so many influences coming from  Europe  and the Middle East, it is no wonder people get absorbed in their travels here and extend their stays.

If you’re planning to travel to Turkey, get comfortable and tuck into our many articles. If it’s advice you’re looking for, you’ve come to the right place.

Destinations

Turkey travel: quick tips, don’t visit turkey without:.

UNIVERSAL TRAVEL ADAPTER

GET A GUIDEBOOK

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE

START PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO TURKEY!

Where to stay in turkey.

Below you will find some of the places we have stayed during our travels in Turkey. These are individual properties that we enjoyed and would recommend to other travelers.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN TURKEY

Anyone looking to travel to Turkey will likely fly into Istanbul and connect to the other airports across the country. From these major cities, it is possible to use public transportation to see the city or take buses further afield.

Many people choose to engage in group tours or day tours to get around and see things in Turkey. It is also possible to rent a car and plan a road trip that takes you further afield and out of the city.

TOP TURKEY TOURS

Best of turkey.

8 Days from Istanbul Visits: Gallipoli, Troy, Ayvalik, Selcuk & Pamukkale

ABSOLUTE TURKEY

15 Days from Istanbul Visits: Gallipoli, Troy, Selcuk, Pammukale, Antalya & Cappadocia

TURKEY: COASTLINES & KABOBS

15 Days from Istanbul Visits: Gallipoli, Troy, Selcuk, Pammukale, Olympos & Cappadocia

DECIDE WHEN YOU WANT TO VISIT TURKEY!

Turkey travel: booking resources, turkey travel guide: related articles.

Looking for more info? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel to Turkey and start planning your dream trip.

Ultimate 10 Day Turkey Itinerary (Plus 7 day & 2 Week Options!)

How to plan a cappadocia hot air balloon ride in turkey, best time to visit turkey: month by month breakdown, ephesus, turkey: best sites to visit in the ancient city, dalyan, turkey: essential guide & best things to do, 5 reasons to add cirali, turkey to your itinerary, 30 best places to visit in turkey (plus things to do), what to wear in turkey: ultimate turkey packing list, 9 reasons to visit selcuk turkey (including ephesus), 11 unmissable things to do in istanbul, foolproof guide to pamukkale turkey, 7 unmissable things to do in cappadocia, turkey (plus planning tips).

Best Travel Agencies

Search turkeytravelplanner.com, what cities.

• Aegean Coastal Cities
• Mediterranean Coastal Cities

Hi, I'm  Tom Brosnahan

My online Turkey travel guide has over 5000  pages on Istanbul and Turkey.

With over 50 years of travel writing experience and authoring more than 40 guidebooks, including the well-known "Lonely Planet Turkey", I share my best travel tips and local insight for exploring Turkey.

Travel Guide Topics

Where to go, best travel agents, best itineraries and guided tours, medical tourism, airport transport, guletyachts, car rentals, mobile phones, turkish lira exchange rates, travel costs, weddings & honeymoons in turkey, answers to travel questions, answers to your questions, travel tips.

Why a trip to Turkey?

How to Get a Turkish Visa

What to Wear & Pack in Turkey

How to Use Your Mobile (Cell) Phone in Turkey

Top 10 Turkish Travel Mistakes

Turkish Tour & Travel Agencies

Where Should I Go?  

• Best Guided Tours

Map of Turkey - Regions and Major Cities

Cappadocia, Turkey Guide

Istanbul, Turkey Guide

Mediterranean Turkey Guide

Itineraries & Tours

Best Itineraries & Tours for 1, 7, 10 Days, or More.

Best 6 to 10-Day Turkey Tours

Hot-Air Balloon: Free TTP Upgrade!

Best Turkish Cuisine Tours—1 on a Gulet Yacht!

Private Guides in Turkey

Bosphorus Cruise, Istanbul

When's the Best Time to Go?

How is Each Month?

How's Turkey's Climate?

Turkish Time Zones

Public Holidays in Turkey

Islamic Holidays in Turkey

What Does it Cost?

What Money Should I Take?

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A Complete Turkey Travel Guide: 20 Things to Know Before You Go to Turkiye

Turkey, now known as Turkiye, is a superb country for your next trip. It is modern and diverse! It is especially known for its beautiful beaches, mind-blowing history, stunning architecture (Greco-Roman and Ottoman), incredible landscapes, pretty towns, and hospitable people. This Turkey travel guide will take you through everything you need to know before your visit so you can plan your Turkiye trip better!

1. Know the country

OFFICIAL NAME : Republic of Turkiye CAPITAL : Ankara (no, it is not Istanbul) LOCATION: It is a transcontinental country located mainly in Asia and partly in Europe OFFICIAL LANGUAGE : Turkish – script is in the Latin alphabet like English. RELIGION : Turkey is a secular state with no official religion. However, the majority practise Islam.

2. The Best months to Visit Turkey

December – March: During this time, it is quite cold in the country with the exception of southeast Turkey (Antalya and surrounds). Most hotels and restaurants in a lot of beach towns will be closed. Snow is not uncommon, especially in Cappadocia and Konya. While snow creates a fantastic landscape in Cappadocia, hot air balloon flights are cancelled more often. That said, there will be less crowd at tourist sites making it a fantastic time to visit places like Istanbul – as long as you can deal with a bit of rain and snow. Your Turkey trip will be the cheapest during this time!

June-August: The summer months are very hot with temperatures going above 30°C. This is perfect for lounging by the sea or a pool but sightseeing can be unbearable. We went in August and experienced this firsthand -must’ve had a million lemonades to stay cool. Even though it’s so hot, there are a lot of visitors because Europeans come in droves during the summer months. Hence, this season is categorized as peak season and prices soar! If you do visit during this time, try and stay indoors during the afternoon.

March to May and September-Novembe r: Though this entire period is generally pleasant, I’d say April and late October are the best times to visit because it’s the perfect balance between weather and crowd.

3. How many days are enough for a Turkiye trip

You should go on at least a 10-day trip to Turkey – the more the better because there is so much to see. A lot of people visit for 2-3 weeks and still don’t get bored. But since that is not possible for most, 7 days is the minimum we would suggest.

4. PLACES TO VISIT IN TURKEY

Turkey has a lot of fantastic destinations, however, we will just cover a few of the most popular places to visit here.

1. I stanbul – city life, history, culture, shopping, food

Istanbul is a bustling city lying on two continents ( Asia and Europe) where the old and new exist beautifully side by side. Since, Istanbul is such a historic city that was the capital of two dynasties – the Eastern Roman Empire and the Ottoman – there are a lot of things to see and do like mosques, palaces, museums, cruises, Hamam Spa, nightlife, and shopping. You could easily spend a week or more here but we’d recommend a minimum of 2-3 days . Closest Airports: Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Asian Side) and Istanbul International Airport (European side) Hotel Options: Mest Hotel Istanbul (great view), Romance Hotel (well-rated mid-range hotel), Hostel Le Banc (hostel in Beyoglu)

2. Cappadocia – landscapes, cave stay, hot air balloons

Cappadocia is home to a surreal landscape made of volcanic stone and cave hotels. However, hot air balloon rides are the most popular thing to do. You’ll need at least 2-3 mornings in Cappadocia if you wish to ride on a hot air balloon. For more info, read the complete list of tips for a dreamy hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia .

Closest Airpots: Kayseri Airport and Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport

Hotel Options: Arinna Cappadocia (luxury), Local Cave Hotel   (mid-range), The Dorm Cave By Travellers (hostel)

3. P amukkale- white terraced travertines

Pammukale is a small town mainly known and visited for its white terraced travertine spa located beside the ancient city of Hierapolis. This city has a museum and a beautiful Roman theatre – not to be missed.

Closest Aiport: Dalaman Airport and İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport

Hotel Options: Hotel Sahin  (superb view), Venus Hotel  (mid-range), Melrose Viewpoint Hotel (budget)

4. Selcuk (for Ephesus) – third largest Roman library

Ephesus is again an ancient Greco-Roman city. It has one of the finest examples of a Roman Library which was the third largest in the world in its day. Nearby, is also the site of one of the ancient wonders of the world – The Temple of Artemis .

These sites are all best visited by staying in the small town of Selcuk for one night.

Closest Airport : İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport

Hotel Options: Livia Hotel Ephesus (Adults Only)   (semi-luxury), Celsus Boutique Hote l (mid-range),   Hotel Urkmez (budget)

5. ALACATI – a cute beachside town with nightlife

Pronounced Aalaa-cha-tuh, the town was established by Greek workers and hence has all the Greek vibes with a Turkish Charm – think Greek stone houses, traditional and modern windmills, cobbled streets flanked by pink bougainvillaea. The town comes to life at night with its many superb bars and restaurants.

Closest Airport: İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport

Hotel Options: Biblos Resort Alaçatı (luxury),   Sakin Ev   (mid-range), Rebetiko Hotel   (budget)

6. ANTALYA – beaches and history

Antalya is the largest city in southern Turkey and is known for its turquoise coast, ancient ruins and a waterfall by the sea. It is a hotspot for tourists – probably the most visited place after Istanbul and Cappadocia.

Closest Airport: Antalya Airport

Hotel Options: Casa Sur Antalya , Perge Hotels , White Garden Hotel

7. FETHIYE & OLUDENIZ: beaches and paragliding

Located about 4 hours south of Izmir and 3 hours west of Antalya, Fethiye is on the Turkish coast. Fethiye is surrounded by heritage sites, pristine beaches with azure waters and towering green hills. It’s also the start of the Lycian way- a 540 km hiking trail (you obviously don’t need to do the whole thing). Not only that, Oludeniz is considered to be one of the best places to paraglide in the world – the views are epic!

Closest Airport: Dalaman Airport

Hotel Options: Yacht Boheme Hotel , Sovalye Hotel , Heaven Bungalow Fethiye

If you have a car or are looking for a staycation then these hotels in Faralya (near Fethiye) are superb: Perdue Hotel and Nautical Hotel

8. KAS- cute town, beaches, history

Kas is a charming seaside town between Antalya and Fethiye. It is a lot like Alacati, but with a lot more things to do. This was the town we really wanted to go to instead of Alacati but we need an extra day to make that possible without rushing it. Read more about Kas here.

Closest Airport: Antalya Airport and Dalaman Airport

Hotel Options: Hotel and Villa Kale Suites , Golden Rose Otelcilik , Payam Hotel

5. Turkiye Trip Itinerary

This is the itinerary we followed based on the flights we were getting at the time:

Best of Turkey – 10 days: Istanbul (2.5 days), Cappadocia (3 days), Alacati (2 days), Pamukkale and surrounds (1.5 days), Selcuk/Ephesus (1 day)

Read our detailed 10-day Turkey Itinerary

Your itinerary would depend on your interests but here are a few options you can use as a started point:

Turkey 7 days itinerary: Istanbul (2 days), Cappadocia (2.5 days), Choose one amongst any other place – Antalya / Kas / Fethiye and Oludeniz / Pammukale and Ephesus / Alacati

Alternate 10 days itinerary for Turkiye: Istanbul (3 days), Cappadocia (2 days), Antalya/Kas/Fethiye (3 days), Pamukkale and Ephesus (1 day)

Turkey 14 days itinerary: Istanbul (3 days), Cappadocia (3 days), Road trip starting from Cappadocia visiting Antalya (2 days), Kas (2 days), Oludeniz & Fethiye (2 days) heading over to Pamukkale (1 day) and Ephesus (1 day). End your road trip in Izmir. We would have lovvveed to follow this itinerary!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Modi & Trisha – Travel Couple (@trywanderingmore)

6. Turkiye tourist Visa

Before you plan a Turkiye trip, make sure you know what type of visa you’ll need. There are two types of visas – a  sticker visa and an e-visa . The visa type you choose will depend on your purpose of visit, nationality and the documents you have. Check the general visa requirements of all countries here .

E-visa is a single-entry visa and is available for passport holders of 60 countries provided that you meet the required criteria which you can see once you start applying for the e-visa. You can apply for your e-visa any time before your travel because you get the e-visa in 10 minutes. We advice to apply at least a week prior in case of any unfortunate circumstances. The e-visa fee varies per your country and type of travel document.

For Indians

If you’re an Indian passport holder with a valid Schengen, USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit, then you can get an e-Visa which is valid for one month (in a 180-day period) via the website  www.evisa.gov.tr , provided that you meet these conditions:

• The passport covers the period of stay in Turkey
• You can prove that you hold a return ticket, hotel reservation and at least $50 per day of stay.
• You are travelling for the purposes of tourism.
• You have a valid Supporting Document (Valid visa OR valid residence permit from one of the Schengen Countries, USA, UK or Ireland). E-visas are not accepted as supporting documents.

We have a US tourist visa so we applied for the e-visa through this link . The whole process took 5 minutes and we got the e-visa immediately after paying 43 USD (exactly INR 3522 was charged).

Sticker Visa

If you are not eligible for an e-visa, you will have to go through the sticker visa process which takes more time and money . But the good part is that you can apply 6 months before your trip . It is suggested you apply as early as possible. The maximum stay duration through a sticker visa is up to 90 days in a 180-day period and is available for single, double, or multiple entries . 

A sticker visa, as the name suggests, is pasted on your passport. Therefore, you will be required to send your passport to the Turkish embassy. You need to get an appointment and visit the embassy to drop off and collect your passport. Please check this website to understand if you can fill out the pre-visa application directly or need to apply via an agency.

Indian passport holders cannot fill out the pre-visa application directly and have to go through an authorized agency which is Gateway Globe . You have to fill out the application and undertaking forms, collect the listed documents and photos, book an appointment directly from their website , pay the visa fee, submit the form, and collect the visa.

A single-entry visa fee is about INR 4500, and a multiple-entry visa fee is  INR 14,400 . In addition, a service charge of  INR 4,200  is payable over and above the visa fees.

If you have any queries, you can contact Gateway Global directly .

7. Is Turkey safe for travel?

All the places we have listed above are tourist hubs and safe to travel to. People are so nice and helpful and we never felt unsafe at any point in time. The country is also considered safe for solo travellers!

Border areas in general can be unsafe in many countries, but don’t worry you’ll probably not venture anywhere near it.

Other minor thefts and general security concerns are there in all countries. You can’t predict these things. Just stay vigilant no matter where you travel.

8. How to get around Turkey

Turkey is very well connected by flights, trains, busses and also has plenty rental car companies.

Flight: The easiest and most convenient way to get around is by flight. Nearly 50 cities in Turkey have active domestic or international airports but flights may not be direct for all routes and will go via Ankara or Istanbul. Domestic carriers include Pegasus and Turkish Airlines. Flights are relatively cheap, especially during the off-season. You can get them for as low as INR 2000! Search for international and domestic flights

Bus: Bus travel is one of the most popular ways to travel around Turkiye as it is cheap and you can get to just about any corner of the country. Every city has its own intercity bus terminal with numerous companies. That being said, bus journeys can be long and night buses are not known to be very comfortable. To book a bus, you can go to the bus terminal on the day you want to travel, buy a ticket, and board the next bus. Or else pre-book below! Search for busses

Train: Train travel is generally limited and slow in Turkey and not recommended though options are improving gradually. However, high-speed trains between Istanbul, Ankara, Konya and Eskisehir are great options! Search for trains

Car: Turkey is a superb country for a road trip outside of the main cities. There are plenty of car hire services, the roads are fantastic, people follow traffic rules generally, and the views are ones to behold. Plus, it gets super easy to skip the crowded tours and have the freedom to explore small towns the way you wish. The best part is that you can get a car on your home driving license if it is in English and there is a photo of you on it – no International Driving Permit is needed in such a case. Search for rental cars

9. How to get around the cities

Tram and Metro: Turkey’s larger cities like Istanbul, Izmir, Ankara, Bursa, Antalya, Konya, and Gaziantep– all have some kind of metro or tram system. We used the tram extensively in Istanbul – it was fast, easy to use, and helped avoid traffic.

Cab : You can hire a metered cab off the road or use Uber (available in Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara) or Bitaksi (available in İstanbul, Ankara, İzmir, Kocaeli, Bursa, Antalya, Muğla, Adana, Mersin, Samsun and Kayseri) in major cities. Download these apps beforehand.

Ferry: In general, ferries are limited in Turkey. There are many routes in and around Istanbul serving the Marmara region and some routes extend to Bursa, Izmir and Canakkale. 

Bus/Dolmus: Big cities are well connected by bus and smaller cities are generally well-served by dolmuş  (minibus), though lack of signage can make this a tricky way to get around.

While big cities have fantastic public transport, small towns do not. You can take the Dolmus and busses in most towns but they’ll be limited. Honestly, I’d say that the best way to get around small towns would be by a rental car.

10. Renting a Car in Turkey

It is fairly easy to rent a car in Turkey. Here are two options:

• Pre-book it online: Try Discover Cars an d Rental Cars . We used Avec to book our rental car in Izmir.
• Pre-book it through your hotel: We booked our hotels in Turkey via Booking.com which has the facility to chat with the hotel. So for Cappadocia, we just messaged our hotel about rental cars and they provided us with the best offer we were getting at the time.

Here are some things to know before renting a car in Turkiye.

• All foreign driving licenses are valid as long as they have a photo and are written in the Latin alphabet . You do not need an International Driving Permit in such a case.
• If your car pick up and drop locations are different , you will incur a surcharge . So consider this while making your itinerary.
• You will need a credit card to hire a car as there is usually a deposit amount put on hold on your card. Or it is directly deducted and later refunded.
• Unlike India, traffic is on the right side of the road and the steering is on the left of the car. This will take a day or two to get used to.

• You should be very confident about driving on slopes . The slopes in Cappadocia (Goreme mainly) had us going mental despite us being very comfortable driving on them.
• Car companies usually only let you hire a car if you’re at least 21 years old and have held your license for 1 year.
• If you’re between the ages of 21-25 you may have to incur a surcharge .
• Seat belts are mandatory and the use of a mobile phone while driving is prohibited , with the exception of a hands-free system.
• You will always need to have your driver’s licence, registration documents and insurance documents . The latter two are usually in the glove box.
• Tolls in Turkey are quite a few – we didn’t pay any tolls. However, ask your car rental company about the HGS toll system tag beforehand as having this will automate the toll payment process much like FASTag in India. This could be prepaid or postpaid.
• 0.05% is the max alcohol limit permitted which only applies if you are driving alone. So do not drink and drive at all!

11. What Currency to carry

The currency is the Turkish Lira denoted as TL or TRY and the exchange rate is 1 TL = 4.39 INR. See the current exchange rate .

A lot of tours accept Euros as well, especially in Cappadocia. You can pay by card in most places but you will definitely also need cash as well for public transport, street vendors, etc. It is best to keep Euros or USD and get it changed in Istanbul for Turkish Liras.

A lot of hotels and shops provide a 9-10% discount if you pay in cash . This is because the establishment will not have to pay a credit card fee to the bank. So, if you’re carrying cash, please ask if they will give a discount on cash payment.

You will not get the Turkish Lira easily in India. So you have two options:

• Carry Euros and exchange this for Liras in Istanbul.
• Carry a forex card and withdraw money through ATMs in Turkey.

We carried the Go Niyo Global Card which is a multi-forex card. We just had to load it with Indian Rupees and could withdraw in the local currency in 150+ countries with zero forex markup so it was perfect for Turkey. We paid with the card wherever possible and at other times we withdrew the max limit of TL 2000. Note that each time you withdraw from the ATM, Go Niyo charges you INR 118. Despite that, we found this option to be very very convenient.

Tip: Withdraw money from Ziraat ATMs as they were the only ATMs that didn’t charge us an extra withdrawal fee!

12. Get a local Sim

The wifi in Turkey can be dodgy. It is best to get a local sim to make things more convenient for you. You can buy a sim in the cities or at the airport.

The following networks are available in Turkey:

Türk Telekom.

Do compare prices and see what suits you best. We got Turkcell because it has the best reputation for 4G coverage.

13. Turkey Travel Budget

The cost of a trip to Turkey as to any other country depends on a lot of factors including:

• Season of travel: Peak season is more expensive than low season.
• How early you booked the trip (especially for travel during season time): Earlier can be cheaper
• Your style of travel: Taking public transport and eating local food would save you a lot of cash
• The destinations you visit: Some destinations like Cappadocia and Alacati are expensive
• The activties you do: Activties like hot air balloon rides and guided tours can be very expensive.

Mid-Range travel: We are mid-range travellers who like the convenience and are willing to spend on it but would still like the trip to not be very expensive. Our trip to turkey cost us about INR 2.9 lakhs for two people because we booked very late, travelled during season time, and hired a car instead of taking buses. The exact breakup is given below. If we’d done the same trip in some other months instead of (June- August) we could have probably done it in INR 2-2.25 L for two people .

Budget Travel: If you travel in the shoulder/low season, stay in budget hotels and hostels, don’t do a hot air balloon ride and take public transport you could do this trip for INR 70,000-80,000 per person including flights.

Category-wise costs in high season for a 12-day trip (10 days + 2 days travel)

14. Tipping isn’t compulsory but always appreciated

Tips are generally low   in Turkey. While tipping isn’t 100% necessary, it is always appreciated for good service.

In most cases,  you cannot include the tip on a credit card charge so should be prepared to tip in  cash directly to the person who has served you.

Cabs: Round up the fare. No tip is needed. Porters in hotels: Tip 5-15 Liras per person. Restaurants: 5% of the bill in small establishments and 10-15% of the bill in big ones. Tour guides: 10 and 15 Turkish Lira if you feel it’s deserved. Hamam: A tip of 10-15% of the bill is usually expected!

14. Food to try in Turkey

Turkish food has evolved over the centuries but is yet largely influenced by Ottoman cuisine (Eastern European, Central Asian, Middle Eastern)

• Turkish Breakfast : These consist of several small dishes including olives, different types of cheese, fresh bread, butter, jams and spreads, and black tea. You will be so full!
• Toast with White Cheese : A simple yet delicious toast with thick white cheese! Must-have.
• Menemen: Turkish version of scrambled eggs with tomato and peppers.
• Turkish Coffee: If you like strong coffee, you’ll love Turkish Coffee.
• Fresh Orange Juice and Lemonade: I am not kidding when I say, that these were much tastier than I’ve ever had before. They were naturally sweeter and less acidic – unlike the ones we have in India.
• Cay: Turkish black tea served in a Tulip Glass. This is had not only for breakfast but also after every meal and in between meals. It is truly the national drink of Turkiye.

Lunch and Dinner

• Lentil Soup : A hearty thick soup made with red or orange lentils and spices.
• Pide : Pide is a boat-shaped Turkish Pizza made with a slightly thick dough and a wide range of fillings like meats, fresh vegetables, etc. Must-have!
• Mezze : The variety you get is insane and so delicious. Definitely try this in coastal areas.
• Gozleme : A Turkish paratha
• Manti : Turkish ravioli filled with ground meat or vegetables usually served with garlic yoghurt, spicy butter, and spicy tomato sauce.
• Borek : Borek is a flaky savoury pastry filled with things like potato, spinach, cheese, etc. We didn’t like it too much.
• Testi Kebab/ Pottery Kebab : Meat or vegetables cooked for hours in an earthen pot. Try this in Cappadocia!
• Lahmacun:  Crispy flatbread spread with seasoned minced meat. We could not find a veg version of this.
• Doner:  Pita bread spread with shaved meat cooked on a rotating spit, vegetables, and spices, folded like a sandwich.
• Sis Kebab : Skewered pieces of meat cooked on hot charcoal. 

• Helve: Turkish Halwa. It is drier compared to what we make in India but equally tasty.
• Baklava : A rich syrupy pastry dessert traditionally filled with chopped nuts. Have this with fresh cream!
• Kunefe: Shredded pastry soaked in traditional syrup and layered with special cheese, nuts, or clotted cream.

If you’re a foodie and would like to learn about Turkish Cuisine from a local – go for this food tour .

If you’re a foodie who also loves to cook – go for this cooking class.

16. language barrier: most people don’t speak English

Most people in Turkey speak only Turkish. People in the tourism industry like hotel owners and guides will know English but the workers in these places may not. Keep the Google Translate App downloaded and also download the Turkish language for offline use. Learn to use the app beforehand!

Since Turkish is written in Latin Script like English, you will learn a lot of words throughout your time in Turkey. But till then, it would help to know some words in Turkish !

17. Do not discuss politics

Try not to discuss politics in a public place as the locals in Turkey often have strong political views and can get offended.  Also, you must know that Turkish people dearly love and respect the first President of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, so can be sensitive when discussing him.

18. What to wear

Turkish cities are very modern and people do not really limit themselves in what they wear. Even in coastal areas, you can mostly wear what you wish. Women can wear strappy dresses and shorts if they’d like (we saw so many people wear these).

However, the population in small towns can be conservative – just like it is in India. On the days you’re visiting mosques, women should carry a scarf to cover the head and both men and women should wear clothes are cover both the shoulders and knees.

As a general rule, I either wore a strappy dress/top that was long enough to cover my knees or a half/full sleeve dress that left my knees bare.

19. What to pack when travelling to turkey

1. International Travel Adaptor : There are two plug types used in Turkiye – Type C and F – and operate on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. Best to have an international travel adaptor .

2. Swimsuit : For the many beaches and pools.

3. Scarf : To cover your head in religious places.

4. Hat : If you’re travelling in the summer, you will definitely need one. I didn’t understand the intensity of the Turkish sun till I spent a few days there without a hat!

5. Sunglasses: Same as the hat, you simply can’t go without this.

6. Sunscreen: Best to buy a reef-safe skin-safe sunscreen! Please only buy one that contains non-nano Zinc Oxide  and/or Titanium Dioxide. These are very tough to find in India but here is a great option . It has a silicon texture and can be very slightly greasy but it hasn’t been a deal breaker despite my oily skin. Do try it and decide for yourself. If you know of any other such sunscreens, tell us in the comments section. Most chemical sunscreens contain very harmful ingredients like Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Avobenzone, and Octocrylene which are oftem disguised by other more complex scientific names. Do check this article for more info on harmful ingredients in sunscreen.

7. Sweater/jacket: If you’re travelling in the summer and going to Cappadocia for a hot air balloon ride or to chase them in the valleys, you will need a light jacket because Cappadocia is very cold in the mornings. For winters, carry at least two layers (jacket+sweater) because it gets very very cold in Turkey.

8. Comfortable shoes: You will be walking a lot. There are a lot of slopes in Turkey too. It is best to get comfortable walking shoes with no heels. We usually take with us our Neeman’s , Skechers , or Birkenstocks .

9. Insta 360 X3 or a Long Selfie Stick : For a shot of yourself on the hot air balloon – you’ll need either of these two. I totally wished I had the Insta 360 X3 because the invisible selfie stick makes it look like you are taking a super wide drone shot without actually flying a drone. Instead, I carried a long selfie stick to attach to my phone, but lost the selfie stick before it achieved its purpose.

10. Basic Toiletries : Hotel toiletries, if you’re not staying at established 5-star chain hotels, are quite shady looking. I highly recommend you fill such travel bottles with your own shower gel, shampoo, conditioner and lotion for this trip.

11. A wet bag : You’ll need a plastic bag or a wet bag like this to keep your wet swimsuits. we were super thankful we had this in Pamukkale.

12. A waterproof mobile cover or a Go Pro for all your water shots.

20. Books to Read Before Visiting Turkey

Turkey is so rich in history. I highly recommend that you read at least one book on Turkey so that you make the most of your trip. Here are some options:

Istanbul: City of Majesty at the Crossroads of the World (Thomas F. Madden): This is the complete history of Istanbul that starts right at the beginning with Byzantion and Byzantion Constantinople ending with Ottoman Constantinople and modern-day Istanbul. This is the book I read before going and it really made Istanbul’s sights come to life during my visit.

Ataturk: The Biography of the Founder of Modern Turkey (Andrew Mango) :  This is the biography of the founder of modern-day Turkey. You’ll read about the fall of the Ottoman Empire up to the rise of the Republic all while learning about Ataturk.

Istanbul: Memories and the City   (Orhan Pamuk). The famous novelist’s portrait of Istanbul as well as a portrait of his own life within the city.

READ NEXT>>>>>>> The Ultimate 10-Day Turkey Itinerary

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2 thoughts on “A Complete Turkey Travel Guide: 20 Things to Know Before You Go to Turkiye”

While you have suggested hamam in Istanbul, do you have any suggestions for the same in Cappadocia?

Hey Samridihi, unfortunately, we don’t have recommendations for Hammams in Cappadocia. The reason why a Hamam is suggested in Istanbul is that Istanbul has historic hammams that are over 300 years old or more making it one of the best places in Turkiye to experience it.

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Turkey Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Welcome to the Crossroads of Civilizations: Your Ultimate Turkey Travel Guide

Turkey stands as a sentinel at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, a mosaic of cultures, histories, and landscapes that beckon travelers from around the globe. This guide is your key to unlocking the treasures of Turkey, from the bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the lunar landscapes of Cappadocia, the azure waters of the Aegean to the rugged peaks of the Taurus Mountains.

One Nation Travel specializes in Turkey tours , featuring trips to Istanbul, Cappadocia tours , Pamukkale, and Antalya for cultural and scenic experiences.

Exploring Turkey’s Diverse Landscapes and Climate Zones

Turkey’s geography is as varied as its history, with each region offering a distinct climate and terrain. The Black Sea region boasts lush greenery and a mild climate, while the central Anatolian plateau challenges visitors with its steppe climate and hot summers. Understanding these variations is crucial for planning your travel wardrobe and activities.

Journey Through Time: Turkey’s Rich Tapestry of History

The Hittites, Byzantines, Ottomans, and many others have left their indelible marks on Turkey. Each city is a living museum, with layers of history waiting to be discovered. From the ancient ruins of Ephesus to the iconic Hagia Sophia, Turkey’s historical sites are not just attractions; they are portals to the past.

The Melting Pot of Cultures: Understanding Turkey’s Social Fabric

Turkish culture is a vibrant tapestry woven from the many civilizations that have thrived here. This section delves into the customs, traditions, and daily life that create the country’s unique cultural identity. Learn about the importance of hospitality, the nuances of Turkish tea culture, and the significance of family in Turkish society.

Essential Pre-Travel Tips for a Hassle-Free Turkish Adventure

Before you embark on your Turkish journey, there are practicalities to consider. This section covers everything from packing essentials to cultural dos and don’ts, ensuring you are fully prepared for your adventure.

Navigating Visa Policies for a Smooth Entry into Turkey

Understanding Turkey’s visa requirements is essential for a smooth travel experience. This section provides up-to-date information on visa processes, fees, and exemptions, helping you to plan your entry into Turkey with confidence.

Prioritizing Health and Safety While Traveling in Turkey

Your well-being is paramount when traveling. Here, we discuss health precautions, insurance, and safety tips for various Turkish locales, so you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind.

Bridging the Language Gap: Communicating in Turkey

While Turkish is the official language, this guide offers practical advice on overcoming language barriers, from useful phrases to language apps, ensuring clear communication throughout your travels.

Managing Your Liras: A Guide to Turkish Currency and Budgeting

Budgeting for your trip is made easier with insights into the Turkish Lira, cost of living, and tips for keeping your finances in check while enjoying all that Turkey has to offer.

Mastering Movement: Turkey’s Transportation Network

Navigate Turkey’s extensive transportation network with ease, from domestic flights to intercity buses and ferries, ensuring you can traverse the country’s vast landscapes efficiently.

From Ottoman Mansions to Boutique Hotels: Finding Your Perfect Stay in Turkey

Turkey’s accommodation options are as diverse as its regions. Whether you’re looking for luxury, comfort, or a touch of history, this section helps you find the perfect place to rest your head.

A Culinary Odyssey: Sampling Turkey’s Gastronomic Delights

Turkish cuisine is a feast for the senses. Explore the country’s culinary offerings, from street food to fine dining, and learn about the dishes that must not be missed.

The Art of Bargaining: Shopping for Authentic Turkish Souvenirs

Shopping in Turkey is an experience in itself. Discover the best markets and shops for authentic souvenirs and learn the art of bargaining to get the best deals.

Celebrating with the Locals: Turkey’s Festivals and Events Calendar

Turkey’s calendar is packed with festivals and events that offer a glimpse into its cultural heart. This section guides you through the most significant and vibrant celebrations across the country.

Embracing the Great Outdoors: Turkey’s Natural Wonders

From hiking in the Kaçkar Mountains to hot air ballooning in Cappadocia, Turkey’s natural attractions are a playground for the adventurous. Learn about the best outdoor activities and how to experience them responsibly.

Sun, Sea, and Sand: Turkey’s Best Beaches and Coastal Retreats

Turkey’s coastline is dotted with stunning beaches and seaside towns. This section highlights the best spots for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

After Dark: Experiencing Turkey’s Vibrant Nightlife Scene

As the sun sets, Turkey’s cities come alive with a vibrant nightlife. From rooftop bars in Istanbul to beach parties in Bodrum, discover the best spots for an unforgettable night out.

Hidden Gems: Exploring Turkey’s Lesser-Known Locales

Go beyond the tourist trail with recommendations for off-the-beaten-path destinations that offer unique experiences and breathtaking beauty.

Creating Memories: A Guide to Family-Friendly Travel in Turkey

Traveling with family? This section provides tips for making your trip enjoyable for all ages, with suggestions for family-friendly attractions and activities.

Love in the Land of the Crescent Moon: Romantic Escapes in Turkey

For those seeking a romantic getaway, Turkey offers enchanting experiences, from sunset cruises to intimate cave hotels. Discover the most romantic destinations and activities.

Tailored Journeys: Crafting Your Ideal Turkey Travel Itinerary

Whether you have a week or a month, this section helps you create an itinerary that suits your interests, time frame, and budget, ensuring you make the most of your time in Turkey.

Respect and Understanding: Navigating Turkey’s Laws and Social Etiquette

Understanding local laws and etiquette is essential for a respectful and enjoyable visit. This section covers the essentials of Turkish customs and legalities.

Staying Connected: Tech Tips for Travelers in Turkey

Stay connected with tips on SIM cards, internet access, and navigating technology in Turkey, ensuring you can share your experiences with friends and family back home.

Traveling Responsibly: Embracing Sustainable Practices in Turkey

Sustainable travel is more important than ever. Learn how to minimize your footprint and contribute positively to the communities you visit in Turkey.

Heading Home: A Smooth Departure from Turkey

As your journey comes to an end, this section offers advice for a hassle-free departure, from airport transfers to duty-free shopping.

Frequently Asked Questions: Turkey Travel Guide

This section addresses common queries travelers have about visiting Turkey, providing clear, concise answers to help with trip planning.

Reflecting on Your Turkish Odyssey: The Journey Continues

As you reflect on your travels through Turkey, this conclusion offers a moment to consider the lasting impact of your experiences and the memories you’ll carry with you.

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The Ultimate Traveler’s Guide to Turkey

First-time visitor’s guide: essential tips for a memorable turkey experience.

Turkey is a country that bridges the East and the West, a land where history, culture, and natural beauty intertwine. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know to make your trip to Turkey unforgettable, including the best time to visit, top destinations, cultural experiences, and practical tips. One Nation Travel provides budget-friendly Turkey travel packages to the country’s top destinations. Browse and book your dream experience securely online.

Geography of Turkey

Turkey spans two continents, Europe and Asia, and is bordered by eight countries. Its diverse landscape includes the stunning Mediterranean coastline, the rugged mountains of the East, and the vast central Anatolian plateau. This rich geography offers travelers a wide range of experiences, from exploring ancient ruins to relaxing on pristine beaches.

Best Time to Visit Turkey

Turkey is a year-round destination, but the ideal time to visit depends on your interests and preferences.

Spring (April-May): The weather is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and exploring archaeological sites.

Summer (June-August): The coastal regions are bustling with tourists seeking sun, sand, and sea. This is also the peak season for cultural events and festivals.

Autumn (September-October): The temperatures cool down, making it a great time to visit historical sites and enjoy the autumn foliage.

Winter (November-March): Ski resorts in the mountains come alive, and the offseason means fewer tourists at popular attractions.

Top Destinations in Turkey

• Istanbul : This vibrant city is a melting pot of cultures and history, boasting iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar.
• Cappadocia : Known for its unique fairy chimneys, underground cities, and hot air balloon rides, Cappadocia is a must-see destination.
• Ephesus : Explore the well-preserved ruins of this ancient Roman city, including the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
• Pamukkale : Visit the famous travertine terraces and bathe in the mineral-rich hot springs that have attracted visitors for millennia.
• Antalya : This coastal city offers a mix of beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and modern amenities, making it a perfect destination for all types of travelers.

Turkish Cuisine

Turkish cuisine is a delightful blend of Mediterranean, Central Asian, and Middle Eastern flavors. Don’t miss trying dishes like kebabs, pide, baklava, and the refreshing çay (tea). Street food is also a must-try, with classics like simit, döner, and roasted chestnuts readily available.

Cultural Experiences in Turkey

To truly immerse yourself in Turkish culture, consider attending a whirling dervish ceremony, visiting a traditional Turkish bath (Hamam), or learning about the ancient art of marbling (ebru). Additionally, Turkey is home to numerous festivals celebrating art, music, and food, providing ample opportunities for cultural exploration.

Transportation in Turkey

Turkey’s transportation network is extensive and affordable. Major cities like Istanbul, Ankara , and Izmir have efficient public transit systems, including buses, trams, and metros. For long-distance travel, buses are a popular choice, while domestic flights and high-speed trains are also available. When exploring more remote areas, consider renting a car for flexibility and convenience.

Safety Tips for Travelers

While Turkey is generally safe for tourists, it’s important to take precautions and stay informed about potential risks. Keep your belongings secure, avoid displaying valuables, and be wary of scams targeting tourists. Make sure to follow local news and government advisories to stay updated on any travel restrictions or safety concerns.

Accommodation Options in Turkey

Turkey offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxury hotels and all-inclusive resorts. For a unique experience, consider staying in a cave hotel in Cappadocia or a traditional Ottoman-style mansion in Istanbul.

Visa and Entry Requirements

Most tourists can enter Turkey with a valid passport and an e-visa, which can be obtained online prior to arrival. However, visa requirements may vary depending on your nationality, so it’s essential to check with the nearest Turkish consulate or embassy for the most up-to-date information.

Turkish Language Basics

While many people in Turkey’s tourist areas speak English, learning a few basic Turkish phrases will enhance your travel experience and help you connect with locals. Some essential phrases include:

• Merhaba (Hello)
• Teşekkür ederim (Thank you)
• Lütfen (Please)
• Affedersiniz (Excuse me)
• Evet (Yes) / Hayır (No)

Turkish Customs and Etiquette

To make your trip more enjoyable and respectful of local customs, keep these etiquette tips in mind:

• Remove your shoes when entering a mosque or someone’s home.
• Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
• Avoid public displays of affection.
• Be mindful of the call to prayer, as it’s a time for Muslims to focus on their spiritual practice.

Packing Tips for Turkey

When packing for your trip to Turkey, consider the following:

• Pack clothing suitable for the season and activities you have planned.
• Bring a swimsuit, sunscreen, and a hat for beach days.
• Pack a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders when visiting mosques.
• Include comfortable shoes for walking and exploring.
• Don’t forget a universal adapter for charging your electronic devices.

Budgeting for Your Trip

Turkey can be an affordable destination, but it’s essential to plan and budget accordingly. Set a daily spending limit, and track your expenses to avoid overspending. Save money by eating at local establishments, using public transportation, and staying in budget accommodations. Additionally, be prepared to haggle when shopping at markets to get the best deals. Browse the affordable Turkey tour packages offered by One Nation Travel and securely reserve your desired experience online.

Turkey is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, you can create an unforgettable travel experience that will leave you longing to return.

• Is Turkey safe for solo female travelers? Yes, Turkey is generally safe for solo female travelers, but it’s important to take the same precautions you would in any other destination.
• What currency is used in Turkey? The currency in Turkey is
• the Turkish Lira (TRY). It’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and use credit cards at larger establishments.
• Can I drink tap water in Turkey? It’s best to avoid drinking tap water in Turkey. Instead, opt for bottled or filtered water to ensure your safety.
• Do I need vaccinations before traveling to Turkey? While there are no mandatory vaccinations for Turkey, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor or a travel health clinic to ensure you’re up to date on routine vaccinations and discuss any recommended travel vaccinations.
• Is it common to tip in Turkey? Tipping is customary in Turkey for services such as dining at restaurants, taking taxis, and receiving assistance from hotel staff. A tip of 10-15% is generally considered appropriate.

Top 3 Favorite Tours in Turkey

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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!

• Istanbul travel tips — 9 things & what to know before going to Istanbul
• When is the best time to visit Turkey? — The best, worst, affordable & best season to travel to Turkey
• 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
• Izmir blog — The fullest Izmir travel guide for first-timers

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 (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).

I love European city breaks, nature, adventure, hiking to viewpoints, Yoga, and road trips. I have a knack for creating the most amazing travel itineraries and in-depth destination guides which will help you make the most of your trip.

Not sure where to start? Start with some of my most popular posts .

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Last Updated on January 11, 2024 by Drifter Planet

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.

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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.

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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

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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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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.

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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.

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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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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Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Turkey

Find the right fully guided tour for you in Turkey. There are 497 trips to choose from, that range from one day in length, up to 25 days. The month with the most departures is September, making it the most popular time to visit Turkey.

250+ Fully Guided tour packages in Turkey with 3,453 reviews

• In-depth Cultural

Absolute Turkey

Over all tour was good, in itinerary need to mention extra cost roughly budget, also mention stay was ok, need find location which have bathrooms inside room area, it’s unsafe & uncomfortable to use bathrooms in middle of night with out getting fears

Essential Turkey

Simply amazing! The guide, destinations, and experience was truly magical!

• Christmas & New Year

Turkey Classics Tour

We did a private, personalised tour, with a driver and guide. We were in Turkey for over a week and were amazed at how much our guide Halil, knew. Being a personal tour with just my husband and I, Halil was able to change things around if we had enough in a day. Even though he was only 27, he had unlimited knowledge and we came away with such a comprehensive understanding and appreciation of his country. Thankyou, Fez, and Halil

Anatolian Civilizations | 10 Days

My son and I had a great time during this tour. Everything was arranged very well. We had an English speaking guide who had so much knowledge, and made everything easy for us. The old historical sites we visited were very interesting and beautiful. Our group was small, 14 people, which was really nice. The hotels were all good, some were extra good with fitness or swimmingpools, which my son liked a lot.

Best of Turkey- 10 Days

Great Tour company! Especially Mert our tour guide was the best.

• Coach / Bus

Magic Carpet Tour

The tour was excellent. The only suggestions I have would be to ask the group if they want to see the places that were not on the itinerary, such as the jewelery store, ceramic store, etc. No one in our group purchased anything there and it was a waste of time. It would have been better to have more free time in the town we were staying in. Also, some of the lunch stops had very limited food choices and were expensive. Tamer was an excellent guide. He was very knowledgeable, personable and always made the best interests of the group a priority.

Absolutely Turkey

It was my first time I booked an organized tour over a few days in a group. Normaly I prefere to travel by my own and not in groups. But it was an excellent trip. We had place in a bus for about 20 people, but our group was just 5 - 12 people during the week, so it was plenty of place for everybody in the bus. We had with Kinac the best tourguide ever and with Murat an excellent driver who saves us two times our life, during 2 times in just 4 days the front tyre was blowingup on the highway and he can stop the bus safe. Thanks to him. Everything was very well organized. The hotels are good and clean. Just the Hotel in Ankara was a little bit outside of nowwhere. There I would recommend to choose another hotel in the future. Because if I book a culture trip like this, then I want have the possibility to feel the spirit of a city, and not have the feeling to stay in a goosttown. But that´s realy all I have to complain. I from germany and the others are all from US or Canada. It was perfect for me and the group become over the week, thanks to our tourguide Kinac, a smal family. We had a lot of fun. Even if the wakeup times mostly quit early in the morning around 6 am. Some days it was long busrides. But all the beautiful highligts from Turkey are worth to do it. Even if I have just smal things to complain, I will give 5 stars of 5. Points I would change: -Another location from the hotel in Ankara (even if the hotel was ok) - A cool photostop at the salt lakkes on the way to Ankara would be cool - The stop in the leather shop I would cancel. It was more a sales show. If somebody want buying leather goods, he can do it everywhere. If it would be a leather factory, where you can see how they produce this clothes it would be better then just a shop. My personal tip: If you are not sure if you want book a ballonflight in capadoccia. Please do it. It was one of the best highlights in my life. And I travelled already a lot. You wouldn´t regret. Thanks again to all attendes who makes this trip so perfect.

Turkish Breeze-10 Days

The tour was perfect. As a woman traveling alone, I was met by the van pickup personnel and tour guide staff in a timely manner. I felt very safe at all times. The tours were very informative and interesting. I had some time to explore on my own and enjoyed wondering on my own. An excellent tour to see Turkiye as a first time visitor.

Premium Turkey in Depth

This was a great trip with an excellent guide. Our driver Aper was brilliant negotiating a terrible rain storm while crossing mountainous areas with very narrow roads on one occasion.

Turkey Encompassed

Very good tour which makes possible to visit many interesting places in Turkey in an entertaining atmosphere. This tour reaches Capadokia as its foremost eastern point in Turkey. It would be very appealing to have a similar tour which allows the visit of the remaining part of Turkey (mount Nemrut, Sanliurfa, Mardin, lake of Van, the Agri region , the Black sea coast).

The Best of Turkey

Overall we had a very enjoyable tour. Our CEO was excellent. She took time to answer all questions patiently and in case of issues she was quick to respond and resolve. Accommodation was average and food (breakfast) was average.

Best of Turkey by Land (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

Great experience, met great people on the tour whom I am now traveling onwards with to tomorrowlamd music festival. Yildiray was our guide, excellent guide, and father like to the whole group ensured every need was met. It was a pity we didn't get to do the balloon rides due to mother nature but it was still an amazing tour! Would highly recommend

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

10 Days Turkey Escapades Tour

We had the best experience with them with our travel and stay arrangements being well taken care of. All the bookings done exceeded our expectations and would highly recommend them

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

Turkey ( 10 days )

Turkish Secrets

We are satisfied with the arrangement s. But we requested some extra coverage but not given.

What people love about Fully Guided Tours in Turkey

Very good trip. The leader Engin was excellent and was at our Bec and call 24/7. I feel for his sanity he needs some nights off and just tell us about a few restaurants but not take us there - do his own thing. The whole group doesn’t need to always be together. We had one person that struggled to keep up with group and I felt some pressure to wait for her or help her- I don’t think she had much insight into the affect she was having on group. Otherwise was a great and diverse group.

Great bunch of people, tour guide was personally involved as part of the group, incredible sights and activities. 10/10 Would recommend.

Regions in Turkey

• Western Turkey (142)
• Aegean (66)
• Anatolia (61)
• Cappadocia (44)
• Marmara (31)
• Thrace (25)
• Eastern Turkey (16)
• Turquoise Coast (10)

Travel Styles

• Fully Guided
• Turkey Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

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• 9 Handy Turkey Travel Tips To Make Your Vacation Memorable And Hassle-free

26 Oct 2021

Boasting an outstanding combination of magnificent mountain ranges, alluring plains, shimmering beaches, and expansive deserts, Turkey is a magical destination which attracts tourists from all over the world. In addition to natural beauty, Turkey incorporates world famous marvels like Hagia Sophia Museum and Blue Mosque and has beautiful towns like Istanbul and Antalya that leave people in awe. Pulsating with elegance and beauty, this paradise will have you hooked with balloon packed skies, paragliding on turquoise coasts, tasty kebabs, lovely beaches, salt pools, and wonderful historical sites. But before you plan your vacation, take a look at these few useful Turkey travel tips to make sure your journey is as comfortable and hassle-free as it can be.

10 Best Turkey Travel Tips

Make sure you follow these handy tips for visiting Turkey so that you can enjoy a comfortable vacation without landing into an unpleasant situation.

1. Research Well Before You Make Your Itinerary

Before heading to Turkey, make sure you make a checklist of all the places to visit. Proper research will help you to list the most popular and noteworthy places in Turkey. To travel around Turkey without proper knowledge is like driving around without GPS. This is one of the best Turkey travel tips to start your journey to your dream destination.

Must Read: 82 Best Places To Visit In Turkey That Must Be On Your Itinerary

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2. Learn Few Common Turkish Words

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In the exteriors of the cities, not many people are familiar with the English language. Learning a little Turkish language is like among the best tips for traveling to Turkey for the first time and will will get you a long way. In fact, Turkish language is not that difficult, as the letters are similar to Roman alphabet and words are spelled as per the pronunciation.

If you learn a few phrases in Turkish then you can have a decent conversation with the locals. Even at the bookstores, you are likely to find books for Turkish-to-English translation. This is one of the essential Turkey travel advice that we can give you. Below are some common Turkish phrases that will help you on your tour.

Good morning – Günaydın No – Hayir Yes – Evet Thank you – Tesekkür ederim Goodbye – Hoşçakal! (HOSH-CHA-KAL)

Suggested Read: This Is How You Can Impress Your Soulmate On Valentine’s Day In Turkey!

3. Pick An Appropriate Accommodation

From budgeted hotels to luxurious apartments, everything is available in Turkey. You can choose a suitable accommodation as per your convenience and budget. Choose a place that doesn’t burn a hole in your wallet. Travelling within Turkey is as expensive as a Euro trip, unless you plan a proper budget. One of the most important tips for traveling in Turkey for the first time is that you opt for apartments to stay like a local. There are quaint houses available for a comfortable stay offering good value for money.

Suggested Read: Turkey In September: The Ultimate Guide For Exploring The Land Of The Legends!

4. Dress Decently

Being most liberal of West Asian countries, the women in Turkey dress in an elegant and fashionable manner. As Turkey gives you the freedom of dressing as per you desire, you can see both women dressed in Burqas as well as western attires. However, you must make sure to dress decently and not enrage the social customs regarding clothing.

If you happen to visit a conservative area or a mosque, then you need to cover your head. Hence, it highly recommended keeping a scarf or shawl in your bag at all times. Other than this, you’ll find most travel guides asking you to wear hats and sunscreen at all times to avoid getting tanned, which are also some of the best tips for visiting Turkey.

Suggested Read: Celebrate Christmas In Turkey And Make It Merry With These Fantastic Experiences

5. Respect The Culture

Turkey is a secular state where people are open minded and have the freedom to practice Islam the way they wish to. You are bound to have a terrific experience during your tour as people here are quite welcoming, especially to new people from different parts of the world. However, you need to do your bit by respecting the Turkish culture, traditions, customs, and religious practices at all times. Make sure of how you conduct yourself in public areas and how you treat the locals, which is one of the foremost Turkey travel tips to keep in mind.

Also, be careful when you are debating on matters regarding the politics with the locals, as one wrong word may land you in trouble. People here have great respect for the Founding Father of the Turkish Republic, so one is not allowed to speak ill or crack jokes on any matter concerning him, either intentionally or unintentionally. Keeping this essential Turkey travel advice may save you from a lot of embarrassment on your trip to Turkey.

Suggested Read: Turkey In October: Witness The Land Of Aladdin At Its Best!

6. Carry An International Adapter

Imagine yourself stuck in the city with your mobile phone alerting low battery. This is one of the worst things that can happen to any tourist. Make sure you carry the international charger adaptor so that you can plug it anywhere in your hotel and charge your mobile phones before leaving. While many safety tips for Turkey tour will suggest you to buy one from Turkey itself, we’d suggest you carry one from your home country.

Suggested Read: 6 Iconic Bridges In Turkey That Are A Paragon Of Beauty & Magnificence!

7. Get Vaccinated Before Travelling

One of the most common one safety tips for Turkey tour include vaccination and proper medication. Before initiating your tour, it is highly recommended to vaccinate yourself as a precautionary step. Consult your family doctor to be more precise and take vaccinations under his/her guidance. Most general vaccinations include tetanus, diphtheria, hepatitis A, polio, typhoid and diphtheria. Also, make sure you’re carrying the proper medications on your tour with their prescriptions.

Suggested Read: 5 Historical Caves In Turkey Which Will Give You Some Serious Adventure Goals!

8. Use Public Transport

Hassle-free commuting is possible as Istanbul is well connected by train, bus, and metro to other cities. If there is no public transport during midnight, then cabs are available. Ulusoy and Safran are the best bus services and are equipped with Wi-Fi facility. During long journeys, passengers are treated to snacks and beverages onboard. You can book these buses online. When traveling by cabs, always make sure to check the logo at the taxi stand so that you do not fall in the trap of money scamming taxi drivers. This is one of the important Turkey travel tips to be considered when commuting within Turkey.

Suggested Read: 7 Therapeutic Hot Springs In Turkey Everyone Who Searches For Tranquility

9. Carry Cash

Of all the Turkey travel tips, this is the most important and essential suggestion. You should have cash with you all the time as you cannot rely on cards. One of the prime reasons for carrying cash is that ATM centers are not available in rural towns. So to avoid any complications, it is highly advised to have local currency of Turkey. Although credit cards are accepted, most service providers and vendors prefer paper money over cards. In addition, Turkish ATM machines are unpredictable and may reject your card without any valid reason.

Further Read: Turkey In November: Take A Quick Rundown At This Guide For An Enthralling Vacation!

Planning to take a trip to Turkey anytime soon? Don’t forget to consider these Turkey travel tips before your book a vacation. And if you know of anymore travel tips, hacks, and suggestions for visiting Turkey the right way, let us know in the comments below.

Disclaimer:  TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Travel Tips

How should a woman tourist dress in Turkey?

You can wear shorts, crop tops, short skirts, and summer dresses in all places except mosques and other religious places. The Turks are known for wearing smart casuals. Men should also avoid wearing shorts in such places. They can wear long trousers and short-sleeved shirts.

Is it safe to travel around in Turkey?

Yes, it is absolutely safe to travel around in Turkey. Istanbul and Ankara are considered to be the most secure cities of Turkey.

Is it safe to walk in Istanbul at night?

Yes, it is completely safe to stroll around the streets of Istanbul at night. However, avoid narrow lanes and stay on well lit lanes as much as possible.

Is there Uber in Istanbul?

Uber is the most downloaded app in Turkey and it widely operates in Istanbul and towns of Cesme and Bodrum. To locate the customers, drivers of turquoise and yellow cabs also use Uber app.

What should I avoid in Istanbul?

Revealing clothes or short dresses should be completely avoided in the holy places of Istanbul. Eating close to touristic places, shopping without bargaining, wearing shoes in places of worship and ill-talking about the culture is not encouraged. Don’t book logo-less cabs to avoid getting scammed.

What do you wear in Turkey in the winter?

If you are travelling to Turkey in winter, you must carry the following clothes: 1. Light waterproof rain jacket 2. Winter coat or outdoor jacket 3. Long sleeved shirts 4. Skirts paired with thick stockings 5. Leggings or trousers 6. Ankle boots

Is Turkey safe for female Travelers?

Unlike many other countries, Turkey is safe for females. All the solo female travelers out there need not be afraid to explore this place.

Is tap water drinkable in Turkey?

Yes, tap water is completely safe to drink here. But in many places the water does not taste good, especially in the European part of Istanbul, so one is recommended to drink bottled water.

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Guide to betting on PGA TOUR golf responsibly

Golfbet News

The 2024 PGA TOUR season runs from January through early September. (Getty Images)

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Simply put, there’s nothing else like golf betting. With the ever-present potential for longshot victories, at times seemingly unpredictable variance of performances, and crazy swings from hole to hole that can turn sure-fire winning bets into heartbreaking losses, no other major U.S. sport provides the same level of weekly intrigue that golf betting does on the PGA TOUR.

As a comparison, to get +10000 odds or greater when betting on football, you’d likely have to place a longshot future or build a crazy multi-leg parlay ( not advisable). The futures bet would take many months to potentially cash, while the true chances of that parlay winning would be extremely small.

With golf, though, single wagers for triple-digit longshots win somewhat regularly and usually only take four days (or fewer) to play out. In fact, 2024 started with six of the first nine PGA TOUR events being won by longshots with +10000 odds or higher. In the words of Golfbet’s own Ben Everill , “No other sport gives you the chance to hit a lottery ticket so often.” However, that early trend has been countered sharply as of late, with Scottie Scheffler’s four wins this year – at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, THE PLAYERS, the Masters and RBC Heritage – all coming as the pre-tournament favorite.

It’s also worth noting that the longshot winners were very favorable results for sportsbooks. Sure, they had to pay out a handful of big winning bets those weeks, but the large majority of outright wagers were on other players, and therefore lost.

All of this helps illustrate the fact that betting on golf can be fun, but very difficult. Throwing darts on longshots can be exhilarating if they’re in the mix come Sunday, but a lot less enjoyable if the favorite ultimately comes through with the victory that week. Therefore, it’s critically important to learn and remember how to bet responsibly if you are going to be wagering on PGA TOUR events.

General Responsible Gaming tips and best practices

Whether you’re betting on golf or any other sport, understanding the basics of how to do so responsibly and sustainably is paramount. Every year, thousands of bettors lose more than they expected, which can have severe negative impacts on both financial and mental health. Take time to commit these tips to memory and ensure that they are always top of mind before placing a bet.

• Determine your bankroll, also known as a sports betting budget, for a specific timeframe. This should be an amount that you are comfortable with losing entirely without it impacting your overall financial wellbeing (ex: ability to pay bills). The timeframe for your bankroll should be long, as in multiple months or a year, not just one weekend of betting.
• Related to bankroll, it’s also important to choose and keep consistent with a unit size, which is your standard wager amount. Best practices are to have your unit size equal between 1-4 percent of your total bankroll. Keeping your unit size small will allow you to sustain funds during inevitable “cold streaks” and continue betting without the need to deposit again or increase your bankroll.
• Sports betting needs to be viewed as a type of paid entertainment. Since the odds are skewed notably in the sportsbooks’ favor, it’s very likely that you will not turn a profit from betting, especially in the long term if you are placing bets regularly. Therefore, it should be seen through a similar lens as paying to go see a movie, a show or a live sporting event. It’s entertainment that very likely comes at a cost, even if there is an off-chance that it could also result in winning money.
• Do not ever bet using funds that you don’t currently have. Betting with credit or borrowing funds from someone else to gamble can be extremely dangerous and result in losing amounts that you are unable to afford.
• Set limits on your deposit amounts and time spent betting. Most online sportsbooks now offer the ability for users to set these limits themselves, a critical feature that all bettors should use to ensure that they do not deposit more than their personal bankroll amount and don’t spend too much time focused on gambling.
• Never chase your losses. This is arguably the most common way by which bettors end up losing significant amounts, often more than they can afford to lose. Chasing losses involves placing more bets and/or wagering more than usual in hopes of winning back what was lost. This is a slippery slope where losses can compound quickly and possibly result in negative impacts on financial and mental well-being.
• Never bet while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, as those impair judgment and can potentially lead to placing larger or more bets than usual. If you are out at a sports bar with friends and have been drinking, do not bet. Wagering needs to be done with a clear mind to avoid potential unexpected losses or other issues.

Betting on PGA TOUR golf responsibly

As discussed earlier, betting on golf is different from betting on other sports. In many PGA TOUR events, there are sometimes 140 players or more in the field. That means picking a winner is much more difficult than in most other sports, but is also why some of the associated outright odds can be +10000 or higher. If you are new to golf betting, be sure to familiarize yourself with how to do so responsibly before placing your first wagers.

• Know the tournament format and rules. PGA TOUR events vary in field size, cut rules and playoff formats. This is particularly important in 2024 with “Signature Events.” This year there are eight limited-field Signature Events. The three player-hosted tournaments – The Genesis Invitational, Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard and the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday – feature a 36-hole cut to the top 50 and ties, plus any player within 10 shots of the lead. The other five Signature Events do not have a cut.
• Withdrawals (WD): If a player withdraws from a tournament before teeing off, bets on that player are almost always voided. However, if he plays even just one hole and then withdraws (due to injury or illness, for example), wagers on that player are generally graded as losses.
• Limit your number of bets and overall exposure. With hundreds – if not thousands – of golf wagering options available just about every week, it’s important to self-restrict how many bets you place. A smart approach is to ask yourself, “If all of these bets lose, what will my total losses be?” It’s easy to think that at minimum some of your bets will win, but there is unfortunately always the chance that all of them will lose (even when diversifying with different bet types), so calculating your entire exposure is crucial. Always make sure that your total exposure – combined amount wagered – is not more than the bankroll that you’ve chosen.
• Don’t increase your exposure for big tournaments. The excitement of popular tournaments like THE PLAYERS, Signature Events and majors can lead many bettors to wagering more than usual. That increased risk can quickly lead to heavier losses than expected and potentially burning through an entire bankroll. Be sure to avoid getting caught up in the hoopla of a headline event by wagering more than normal.
• It’s a marathon, not a sprint. The golf calendar is unique in that it is close to never-ending. The 2024 PGA TOUR season runs from January through early September, but there are events in other months as well. If you plan to bet on golf every week throughout the season or year, it’s crucial to understand that you will likely have cold streaks spanning multiple tournaments. Therefore, your exposure for any one event should only be a portion of your total bankroll.

Gambling additiction help and treatment

Learning and following best practices for Responsible Gaming can help reduce the chances of sports betting potentially turning into a problem. However, it doesn’t eliminate that possibility completely. Plus, even if you are betting responsibly, it doesn’t mean that a friend or family member is doing so too. Therefore, having and spreading awareness of specialized Gambling Addiction resources is a key piece of the puzzle.

If you or someone you know may be struggling with a gambling problem, there are tailored care options available. Birches Health is a modern, digital treatment provider that has assembled a team of specially trained clinicians to help individuals dealing with gambling disorders and related problems. Birches Health provides a fully confidential experience with easy and quick intake, custom treatment plans and ongoing care.

If you or someone you know may benefit from talking with a Birches Health care specialist, call (833) 483-3838 or send an email to [email protected]