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Planning your Turkey trip? Whether you’re looking for things to do in Turkey such as events and attractions, key traveller information to make your Turkey visit run smoothly or are planning where to stay in Turkey, you’ll find everything you need for your Turkey holiday on visitTurkey.in. Our what’s on Turkey guide has the latest events not to miss while you visit Turkey – there’s always something going on, so don’t miss out on the latest exhibitions, shows and more on your trip to Turkey by checking out our Turkey tickets and offers. Make sure to discover Turkey’s diverse neighbourhoods, from tranquil suburbs to central areas full of shopping, entertainment and dining options. Discover the best day trips from Turkey or try one of the best Turkey tours. If you’re here as a family, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Turkey with kids and find suitable accommodation such as Turkey holiday apartments. Whether you’re looking for the best weekend breaks in Turkey or planning a longer holiday in Turkey, you can be sure you’ll find all the information you need.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Discover 10 best places to visit in Turkey in 2023

Are you a traveller seeking a mindful travel experience? Look no further than Turkey, a country steeped in history and culture with breathtaking natural beauty. Turkey is a perfect destination for those seeking to explore diverse landscapes, ancient ruins, delicious cuisine, and a rich cultural heritage. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places to visit in Turkey that offer a unique and mindful travel experience.

READ MORE: Here are the 10 most underrated travel destinations in the world

The best places to visit in Turkey

Mount nemrut, why visit turkey.

Turkey is an enthralling country that is well worth a visit for a variety of reasons. To begin, the rich history and cultural heritage provide ancient ruins, museums, and galleries to explore, including Istanbul’s impressive Hagia Sophia. Second, Turkey has a diverse and beautiful landscape, ranging from the white sand beaches of Antalya to the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, with opportunities to hike or take a hot air balloon ride over the surreal landscape. Third, Turkish cuisine is delectable and diverse, and visitors should not pass up the opportunity to sample the famous Turkish breakfast, as well as other traditional dishes.

Furthermore, Turkish people are known for their hospitality and friendliness , which allows for cultural immersion and the formation of new friendships. Finally, Turkey is an affordable destination with plenty of budget-friendly options for lodging, food, and activities, making it an appealing option for budget-conscious travellers. Finally, if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind travel experience, Turkey should be at the top of your list.

Located in the central region of Turkey, Cappadocia is famous for its unique rock formations, underground cities, and hot air balloon rides. The region’s lunar-like landscape and ancient cave dwellings will leave you in awe. Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise to experience the beauty of Cappadocia from above.

Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and has been a centre of culture and trade for centuries. The city’s skyline is dominated by the iconic Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. Explore the city’s narrow alleys, markets, and bazaars to get a taste of the city’s rich history and culture.

Ephesus is an ancient city located on the western coast of Turkey. It was once a thriving port city and was one of the largest cities in the Roman Empire. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the city and its well-preserved amphitheatre, library, and temples.

Pamukkale is a natural wonder located in southwestern Turkey. The name Pamukkale means “cotton castle” in Turkish, and it’s easy to see why. The site is famous for its white terraces made of travertine, a sedimentary rock deposited by the hot springs.

Antalya is a resort city located on the southwestern coast of Turkey. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and crystal-clear waters. Explore the old town of Kaleici, with its narrow streets and Ottoman-era houses.

Bodrum is a popular tourist destination located on the Aegean coast of Turkey. The city is famous for its ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Visit Bodrum Castle, the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, or take a boat tour of the surrounding islands.

Mount Nemrut is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southeastern Turkey. The site is famous for its ancient statues of gods and kings, which were built by the ancient king Antiochus I. Visitors can watch the sunrise or sunset from the top of the mountain, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Fethiye is a small town located on the southwestern coast of Turkey. The town is famous for its natural harbour and stunning beaches. Take a boat tour of the nearby islands or visit the Lycian rock tombs.

Safranbolu is a historic town located in the Black Sea region of Turkey. The town is famous for its well-preserved Ottoman-era houses and narrow streets. Visit the Cinci Inn, an old caravanserai that has been converted into a museum.

Ani is an abandoned city located on the border between Turkey and Armenia. The city was once a thriving centre of trade and culture, but today, it’s a ghost town. Visitors can explore the ruins of the city, including the well-preserved Cathedral of Ani.

READ MORE: We share 10 awesome reasons why you should travel to Singapore in 2023

Do you know the best places to visit in Turkey?

Are you ready to plan your next mindful travel experience? Maybe you have some exciting new places for us to include within our list. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins or enjoying the beautiful beaches and natural wonders, Turkey has something for everyone.

This beautiful country offers a unique and mindful travel experience for those seeking to explore ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and a rich cultural heritage. From the lunar-like landscape of Cappadocia to the stunning beaches of Fethiye, Turkey has something for everyone.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, you’ll find plenty to do and see in Turkey. So why not book your next trip to this beautiful country and experience all that it has to offer?

This article has been submitted by Mateo Feo, a professional chef and hospitality manager from Turkey.

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Turkey Vacation & Tour Packages

Overflowing with Mediterranean energy and Middle Eastern hospitality, Turkey feels like a continent unto itself.

With Greco-Roman ruins, a sun-drenched Turquoise Coast , tiny hillside villages, delicately decorated minarets, and the world’s most spectacular historic mosques – Turkey is impossible to pigeonhole. If you know where to look among the shifting mountain backdrops, you’ll find one-of-a-kind sights and experiences that will set up camp in your heart. Break bread (and the fast) with new friends during Ramazan in the courtyard of the 17th-century Blue Mosque. Explore the hand-forged cave churches of Cappadocia in a landscape of towering wind-carved fairy chimneys. Sink your teeth into a gozleme filled with veggies you pulled from the dirt yourself. Discover Turkey with a local who is passionate about the land they call home.

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Culture and customs.

Turkey has a strong national identity and both its location and the legacy of the Ottoman Empire have contributed to a cultural mix of influences from  Europe ,  Asia  and the  Middle East . Cultural practices vary significantly depending on which region of Turkey you are travelling in. It's important to remember that while most Turkish cities are modern metropolises, Turks can still be quite traditional.

Travelers will find Turkish people to be polite and quite formal in their greetings, kind and hospitable as hosts and friendly as new acquaintances. While bars and nightclubs are common in big cities like Istanbul, outside of these environments it’s a good idea to take your cues from the locals and behave in a subdued manner. This doesn’t mean you can’t have fun, but raucous behavior should be contained to the appropriate venues and kept off the street.

While Turkey is nominally secular, the vast majority of the population identifies as Muslim and Islamic holidays like Ramazan (Ramadan) and Eid are widely observed and recognized as public holidays.

How to be a respectful traveler in Turkey

• Clean your plate If you’re eating with locals (particularly as a guest in their home), you’ll make them very happy if you eat multiple servings and finish everything on your plate. Plan ahead and arrive on an empty stomach for extra points.
• Know when to haggle Remember the first rule of bartering is to decide how much you’re willing to spend beforehand and use that as your guide. In regular shops – as opposed to markets – don’t attempt to haggle over prices.
• Respect the elderly Small gestures like letting elderly folks go ahead of you through doors, offering them your seat on public transport and generally being considerate and respectful of older people will be greatly appreciated.
• Keep criticism private It’s a good rule of thumb not to criticize the culture, government or politics of Turkey. While not all Turks are strict nationalists, you could cause a lot of trouble and offense. You should especially avoid discussing topics related to the Kurdish or Armenian people. When in doubt, follow the conversational lead of the locals. If you’re traveling with Intrepid, ask your leader for guidance. If you’re after a little insight into the geopolitical complexities of Turkey, check out the 'further reading' list below for some perspectives from Turkish authors.

History and government

Ancient history.

There is evidence of hominin habitation in the region known as Anatolia, or Asian Turkey, that dates as far back as 500,000 years and ample evidence of numerous Neolithic settlements popping up between 8000 and 10,000 years ago. 

Notable civilizations who occupied the prehistoric Anatolian region were the Hattians (circa 2500 BC to 2000 BC), the Hittites (circa 1700 BC to 1200 BC) and the Assyrians. From around 2000 BC, Greeks began settling in north-western Anatolia and the southern coasts, establishing individual city-states.

Pre-modern history

The majority of Anatolia was conquered by Alexander the Great in 334 BC. After his death, a succession of various Greek-Macedonian rulers controlled the area until 133 BC when the region was given to the Roman Republic.

Roman control had little impact on the dominant classical Greek culture, which continued to thrive in Anatolia until the region’s absorption into the Byzantine Empire.

Between the sixth and 11th centuries a massive wave of what is known as the ‘Turkic migration’ occurred, and millions traveled across Central Asia into Europe and the Middle East . Among this migratory wave were various Turkic tribes who brought the Islamic religion and Turkic languages that dominate modern Turkey.

The Byzantine Empire sustained a number of invasions and limped forward before finally collapsing in the 14th century, by which point much of Anatolia was already controlled by tribal micro-kingdoms. One of these Turkic tribal groups, the Ottomans, emerged as the dominant regional power during the 15th century and enjoyed a few hundred years of expansion and growth until territorial losses forced its eventual decline in the 19th century.

20th century

The final dissolution of the Ottoman Empire after defeat at the hands of the Allies in WWI was followed by a brief period of Allied occupation before the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923.

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk became the republic’s first president and introduced radical reforms to modernize Turkey and imbue it with a unique identity that was separate from that of the former empire. His ideas continue to be influential in contemporary politics today.

In the decades since the death of Ataturk in 1938, Turkey has seen a number of swings between democratic and autocratic governance, interrupted by brief periods of military governance and occasional political chaos.

Turkey today is a presidential republic where the ruling political parties have historically been nationalist and somewhat economically liberal, with a varying amount of Islamic influence. 

Far-left political activist groups and minority rebel groups have waxed and waned in terms of public and political influence. The most notable is the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), a militant political group originally formed with the intention of creating a Kurdish separatist state. The arrest of PKK founder Abdullah Ocalan in 1999 was a crushing blow to the once-powerful group, though they continue to operate with the stated aim of ensuring the rights and autonomy of the Kurdish people in Turkey and beyond.   

More recently, Turkey has experienced relative prosperity and political stability, though the economy – based on mineral mining, agriculture, tourism and construction – continues to fluctuate between growth and stasis.

Eating and drinking

Home to some of the tastiest produce you can get your hands on, traditional cooking methods and influence from Asia, Europe and the Middle East, Turkey’s food is surprising, delicious and delightful (pun definitely intended).

Plant-based options

Many Turkish favorites are already non-meat. Gozleme, simit and cig kofte are all vegetarian and easy to find in markets, street corner food stands and restaurants. Vegans will have a trickier time finding pre-made dishes that contain no animal products. However, Turkey has an abundance of markets selling fresh produce, bread and extras like hummus and fava bean dip. With a little planning, vegans will be able to assemble meze-style lunches when pre-made options aren’t available.

In dishes like soups and stews it’s a good idea to watch out for beef stock – called et suyu – as it is used frequently even in ‘vegetarian’ dishes.

Must-try Turkish dishes and beverages

• Gozleme This spinach and cheese pastry is a tasty budget-friendly bite that will satisfy everyone (especially vegetarians).
• Lokum Love it or hate it, this divisive treat (known internationally as Turkish delight) can be found in shops, bazaars and street stalls nearly everywhere in Turkey. Made from rosewater, lemon, sugar, cornflour and water, it's relatively easy to make… and even easier to eat.
• Simit As far as quick and easy snacks go it’s hard to pass up simit, a bread similar to a sesame-encrusted bagel. Carts selling simit can be found at bus and train stations, main streets and other busy thoroughfares in most cities.
• Cig kofte Made with bulgur, onion, tomato paste and spices, this south-eastern specialty is essentially a big ol’ vegetarian ‘meatball’. The traditional kind (made with raw meat) is now banned, so you can eat without fear of food poisoning.
• Fish sandwiches Particularly if you’re spending time in the Bosphorus, a fish sandwich (or balik ekmek) is a must-try local dish. Made with white fish, onion and salad, it’s a simple classic that hits the spot.
• Manti Though the ingredients that fill these handmade dumplings vary, the best kind are filled with lamb and served with yogurt and butter. It’s hard to move after polishing off a plate, but so worth it.
• Turkish coffee Turkish coffee is known around the world for its unique brewing method. It's made with arabica beans which are ground into a fine powder and boiled with cardamom and water in a cevze – a pretty copper or brass pot with a long, thin handle.

Learn more about what to drink in Turkey

Turkey travel highlights

One of the best-preserved classical cities in the Eastern Mediterranean and arguably the greatest Greco-Roman site in the world, the ruins of Ephesus are essential viewing for amateur historians.

Turkey Highlights, 8 days

Turkey: Bike & Kayak, 12 days

Boasting incredible Roman ruins and a harbor that proves the term ‘Turquoise Coast’ is well-deserved, Antalya is a sophisticated slice of Mediterranean Turkey.  

Turkey Encompassed, 15 days

Essential Turkey, 11 days

3. Istanbul

People are passionate about Istanbul. Allow at least a few days to explore the sights of this continent-straddling city and discover the indefinable quality that inspires such devotion.

Taste of Istanbul, 3 days

Best of Turkey, 15 days

Turkey Real Food Adventure, 11 days

 The main base for exploring stunning Cappadocia, Goreme has many buildings that are carved into the same soft volcanic rock that forms the fairy chimneys and spires the region is famous for.

Turkey Uncovered, 14 days

Cappadocia Short Break, 4 days

5. Mt Nemrut

Hike to the summit of this remote mountain and you’ll be rewarded with the ruins of an ancient mausoleum, including gigantic stone heads which are all that remain of epic statues of various gods.

Turkey Backroads, 5 days

Turkey Explored, 18 days

Cruise to the sunken city of Kekova, where you can swim and snorkel in crystal blue waters, taste fabulous local cuisine, float over an ancient sunken city or explore Lycian tombs.

Geography and environment

A fairly mountainous country sharing borders with Bulgaria , Greece , Syria, Iraq, Iran , Armenia , Georgia and Azerbaijan , Turkey also has wide stretches of coastline along the Aegean, Mediterranean and Black Seas.

Blessed with large tracts of fertile soil, Turkey is one of the world's biggest agricultural producers, and visitors can expect to see many farms, orchards, plantations and areas of permanent crops occupying certain regions.

Due to its location, Turkey is home to a wide variety of landscapes, from the rocky, forested coastline of the Black Sea region to the fertile plateaus of the Marmara, the white sand beaches of the Aegean and the limestone formations of the Mediterranean. Adding further environmental diversity, the Anatolia highlands (considered the heartland of the country) feature rugged snow-capped peaks and crystalline lakes.

With one of the biggest bazaars in the world, flea markets aplenty and a cutting-edge contemporary fashion scene in the bigger cities, shopping in Turkey is more diverse than you might think.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country, particularly perishable items. Australia and New Zealand, for example, generally have strict quarantine laws.

A note on ceramics

While beautifully decorated tiles and ceramics overflow from Turkey’s market stalls, you should keep in mind that their point of origin can be hard to decipher. In other words, watch out for fakes. The real deal tends to be pretty expensive (but worth it, if you ask us). Of course, if you’re just after something pretty to remind you of your travels, don’t feel too bad about reaching for the inexpensive option.

Things to buy in Turkey

• Handwoven carpets Turkish carpets are a worldwide phenomenon and represent centuries of artistic tradition woven into a beautiful work of art. Go in with an idea of how much you’re willing to pay and don’t be afraid to bargain a little. Just keep in mind that quality craftsmanship deserves to be rewarded with a fair price. A lot of vendors and stores will give you the carpet in a bag suitable to transport as luggage, or you might consider shipping it back home.
• Nazar boncuk (evil eye talisman) Want to bring home a little piece of Turkey and ward off evil spirits and intentions at the same time? An evil eye talisman is a perfect thing. You’ll see these little blue ‘eyes’ in every shop and the majority of Turks carry one with them wherever they go.
• Jewelry Turkey's artisan-made gold and silver earrings, rings and bracelets are good buys. Bazaars, boutiques, museum gift shops and silversmiths offer a wide range of designs from modern to Ottoman-inspired.
• Brass and copper You can find an assortment of brass and copper decorative objects for the home in the bazaars of Turkey. Serving platters, pitchers, trays, pots and urns will add some souvenir flair to your kitchen.

Festivals and events

If you want an adventure with a point of difference, consider planning your travels to coincide with these popular events.

Whether or not you want to travel during Ramazan (Ramadan) will depend on what kind of adventure you’re after. If you love immersing yourself in local culture and religious practices (and don’t mind a little inconvenience) you might just find traveling during this holy month a fascinating and enriching experience. While the days are dedicated to fasting and contemplation, the evenings are full of colorful celebration and, of course, feasting! Plus, there are fewer tourists around to compete with.

Anniversary of the Anzac campaign

Thousands of people head to Gallipoli every year to pay their respects to fallen Australian , New Zealand and Turkish soldiers who died during the bloody Gallipoli campaign of WWI. The moving dawn ceremony is an iconic event that grows in popularity each year, so if you're hoping to head to Gallipoli in April for Anzac Day, plan ahead.

Efes Pilsen One Love Festival

This annual summer music festival held in Istanbul presents two days of rock, pop, folk and electronic entertainment for masses of locals and visitors keen on soaking up some tunes and summer love.

Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Championships

Want to see thousands of oiled-up men wrestle and grapple with each other? Then this is the festival for you! This wrestling championship is held over several days, usually in late June, when Turkey's national sport is celebrated with gusto and fanfare. Apart from the one-on-one wrestling bouts, there’s Romani bands, traditional food and belly dancers providing the perfect sideshow attractions.

Cappadox Festival

Set in the otherworldly landscape of Cappadocia, this eco-friendly music festival features artists and musicians performing on solar-powered stages and inside the ancient caves that the region is famous for. Held around June, the festival was originally an annual event but has moved to a biennial timetable.

Learn more about festivals in Turkey

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Turkey adventure, check out these books:

• Turkey: A Short History – Norman Stone
• The Bastard of Istanbul – Elif Shafak
• Last Train to Istanbul – Ayse Kulin
• Poems of Nazim Hikmet – Nazim Hikmet
• Istanbul: Memories and the City – Orhan Pamuk
• Portrait of a Turkish Family – Irfan Orga
• A Fez of the Heart – Jeremy Seal
• Turkish Coast Through Writers' Eyes – Rupert Scott (ed.)

Similar destinations

Thinking about a trip to Turkey but still browsing other destinations? Or, maybe you've already traveled to the crossroads of Europe and Asia and you're looking for somewhere similar? Check out tours to neighboring locations:

• Greece tours
• Cyprus tours
• Bulgaria tours

Turkey travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do you need a visa to travel to Turkey?

You may need a visa to enter Turkey depending on where you’re from. Foreign nationals from several countries will need an e-visa that allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, including:

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Travelers from many countries – including  New Zealand , the  United Kingdom , Denmark, Finland, France, Germany,  Japan , Norway, Sweden and  Switzerland  – don’t require a visa for stays of less than three months if the trip is for tourism or business purposes.

When is the best time to visit Turkey?

The best time to visit Turkey is typically during the shoulder seasons of March to May or September to October when the temperatures are still warm and there aren't yet large summer crowds.

For the best beach weather, the hottest time of year is June and July, however, this collides with the summer holidays, so it will be busy.

The cooler months are quieter and accommodation (when still open) is cheaper.

If you are planning to travel to the eastern reaches of Turkey during Ramadan/Ramazan, it’s important to consider that many restaurants and shops will either be closed or operating at reduced hours. However, the carnival atmosphere that erupts when the fast breaks in the evening is magical, so travelers who enjoy immersive cultural experiences might prefer to travel during the holy month.

What's the weather like in Turkey?

The weather in Turkey depends on the time of year and region you're visiting. The southern coastlines typically experience a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and wet winters, while the interior regions can experience drastic temperature changes and even snow.

If you're planning on swimming, the water is generally still warm up until the start of November and October is great as it's much quieter.

Weather in Istanbul is fairly temperate, sheltered from severe weather by its proximity to the coastlines.

Is tipping customary in Turkey?

While tipping isn't mandatory in Turkey, a cash tip that equals a small percentage of the total bill is very much appreciated in restaurants.

It's also customary to tip staff while visiting hammams (bathhouses). It's not necessary to tip taxi drivers, although rounding up the fare for convenience is commonplace.

What is the internet access like in Turkey?

Free wi-fi is common in Turkey’s cities, but the quality of connection varies. Alternatively, Turkey has an abundance of internet cafes in large cities, and most of them serve coffee and snacks so you can refuel while you catch up with folks back home.

Internet access can be spotty or non-existent in rural areas, so it’s best to treat travel in these regions as an opportunity for a digital detox. 

Can I use my mobile phone while in Turkey?

Mobile phone coverage is good in Turkey, especially in large cities. Coverage may not be available in more remote areas. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your mobile carrier before you leave home if you wish to use your mobile.

What are the toilets like in Turkey?

Turkey has a mix of Western-style and squat-style toilets, sometimes with a jug of water for manual flushing. The latter becomes more common the more remote the region, however, there's typically a Western-style toilet in every bathroom.

Toilets are known as WCs (short for water closets) in Turkey.

Many public toilets require a small payment of roughly 2-10 TRY for use, so make sure you carry change when out and about.

You may find the standards of hygiene and sanitation in Turkey are laxer than you are used to so it's a good idea to carry toilet paper and hand sanitiser if you are concerned.

What will it cost for a…?

Turkey's unit of currency is the lira (TRY). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

• Half-litre of beer = 50-60 TRY
• Simit (local bread roll) = 10 TRY
• Casual restaurant meal = 300 TRY
• Mid-range restaurant meal = 600 TRY
• Basic hammam visit = 1000 + TRY/50 EURO

Can I drink the water in Turkey?

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Turkey. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water or carry water purification tablets with you. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and to peel fruit and vegetables rather than eating washed or unwashed produce.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Turkey?

Major credit cards are widely accepted in tourist shopping areas and large hotels in Turkey, but are less commonly accepted by smaller vendors, in remote towns and rural areas. We recommend carrying cash for purchases to avoid being caught out.

What is ATM access like in Turkey?

ATMs are available in large cities in Turkey but are not common in rural areas and smaller towns. Be prepared for this by having enough cash before traveling out of the city.

What to wear in Turkey

Turkey can get quite warm in summer and during the shoulder seasons but it’s important to remember that clothing that covers you from elbows to below the knee is appropriate in (or even around) mosques. Think linen pants, lightweight tops/shirts and long dresses. Female travelers should also carry a scarf on them to wear when visiting mosques.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Turkey?

• 1 January New Year's Day
• 23 April National Sovereignty and Children's Day
• 1 May Labour Day
• 19 May Youth & Sports Day
• 15 July Democracy and National Unity Day
• 30 August Victory Day
• 29 October Republic Day

View a full list of public holidays in Turkey .

The 30-day Islamic holy month of Ramazan (Ramadan) is widely observed in Turkey. The exact dates change every year, so it’s important you check when Ramazan will take place in the year you plan to travel. As a general rule, there are five consecutive public holidays observed at the beginning of the month and a few observed at the end.

The level of celebration varies considerably depending on what part of Turkey you are in. The east has a larger Muslim population and therefore a more devoutly observed Ramazan, whereas the southern and western coasts will be less affected.

Kurban (Eid al-Adha)

A four to five-day public holiday is observed during Kurban (Eid al-Adha), though like Ramazan the exact dates of this observation change every year.

Is Turkey safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

LGBTQIA+ travelers should be aware that while Turkey is nominally secular it can also be very conservative. As such, negative attitudes towards LGBTQIA+ individuals are common, particularly outside major cities.  

While same-sex relationships and non-normative gender presentation are not against the law in Turkey, LGBTQIA+ people have no legally enshrined protection from discrimination. Legal prohibitions against ‘ offenses against public morality’ can and have been used to persecute LGBTQIA+ folks, though the likelihood of this being used to target travelers is low.

Transgender travelers, in particular, should be aware that trans people in Turkey report being the targets of violence and overt discrimination. 

Istanbul and Ankara have established queer scenes, both of which are primarily oriented around cisgender gay men and to a lesser extent cisgender gay women. However, same-sex couples are still unlikely to engage in public displays of affection in these cities.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Turkey accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

While infrastructure is improving, much of Turkey remains difficult to navigate for wheelchair users and people with mobility concerns. Many cities in Turkey have been occupied for thousands of years and their design reflects that, with little regard given to making streets and attractions accessible. Travelers with impaired mobility will find that while tourist locales in Istanbul, such as hotels and mosques, are fitted with ramps and connected by an accessible tram, getting around the rest of the city can be challenging. Rural regions like Cappadocia will be difficult for travelers with mobility impairment to navigate independently. 

Squat toilets remain the norm in many parts of Turkey, which can pose problems for travelers with certain disabilities.

Traffic in Turkey can be chaotic, and even when traffic lights and pedestrian crossings exist drivers do not always obey them. Taxis are, for the most part, not wheelchair-friendly.         

Travelers who use battery-operated hearing aids should consider bringing a stash of extra batteries, as they can be difficult to locate in Turkey.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

Does my trip to Turkey support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Turkey directly support our foundation partner, C ontemporary Life Support Association (CYDD) . 

Contemporary Life Support Association (CYDD) provide scholarships and educational programs for economically disadvantaged youth in Turkey. Donations from our trips fund a program where young scholarship awardees undertake outreach workshops with marginalized children in regional villages. Workshops include information sessions on gender equality, health, law, culture, and other human rights topics.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

What kind of accommodation will I be staying in?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in Turkey you may find yourself staying in a:

These locally run guesthouses are the perfect blend of a comfortable homestay and a hotel, combining well-situated and authentic Turkish accommodation with modern conveniences.

Immerse yourself in local village life and enjoy Turkish hospitality (and food) during a homestay. Share a home-cooked meal with your hosts and embrace the slow life.

How will I be traveling around Turkey?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport – which usually have less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending what trip you're on while in Turkey, you may find yourself traveling by:

Explore the rugged beauty of Turkey’s coast on a traditional Turkish sailing gulet. Spend days exploring submerged ruins and nights cozied up on deck under the stars.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

Travel Tips: The Best Time (or Month) To Visit Turkiye [Update 2024]

” What’s the best time to travel to Turkiye in 2024? This is the first question that travelers ask when they are going to visit Turkiye. The right time to choose will determine how their experience will be when they vacation in Turkiye.

Most of them are confused to decide when the best time to visit Turkiye is.

They have read a lot of articles about the trip to Turkiye on the internet, and most of it says that every time is good for having a holiday in Turkiye.

Here in this article, we are going to explain in detail how every time is the best time to visit Turkiye.

Disclosure: We recommend services in this article. We are affiliates of these services, and we only choose products or services that we think are appropriate for this article. We will receive a commission if you make a purchase or upgrade through our link. There will be no additional fees for you.

So, what’s the best time to visit Turkiye?

“When is the good time to visit Turkiye?” As people keep asking about this, in general, they will assume that the best time visiting this country is when Turkiye held an International Tulip Festival. That is in spring, precisely in April. That is true. But here we will also inform you by knowing the best places which Turkiye has offered for its every season, every time here would be a great moment for having a leisure trip.

How can we inform you like that? You must be curious now. Before we continue our discussion, the next section is the point of how we can have a good vacation in Turkiye.

Things to know before visiting Turkiye.

What travelers always dream of before they come to Turkiye is that they want to experience the uniqueness of this country where history, culture, natural beauty, and even modernity can blend well into one.

The area is vast, and the tourist spots are scattered in many places in Turkiye, making it a challenge for tourists who are going to vacation here.

The point here is the ability to arrange a good Turkiye travel itinerary.

We recommend you to make the itinerary carefully. Know in advance what season you are going to vacation in Turkiye, and find out which destinations are good for that season. Every season has its own favorite places.

It will be more simple if you are willing to use a service from a tour operator. As they are experienced, hopefully, they are going to make your trip would be such a great journey in Turkiye.

>> For your reference: Here is the example of some tourism services in Turkiye.

But if you want to explore Turkiye for yourself, that’s fine. You can still get the warmth that Turkiye has to offer. The point is, first identify the Turkish characters in each month or time (season) during your vacation plan.

Knowing the best places to visit in Turkiye for its every season is important.

We will take an example of visiting Turkiye during the International Tulip Festival in Istanbul.

If you have decided to have a vacation to Turkiye in April , make sure that you are going to visit a national park in Istanbul that will perform much variety of Tulip.

We all know that April is one of the best times to visit Turkiye, but if you are not listing Emirgan National Park into your itinerary, we think that you miss something that supposedly visited in your Turkiye spring holiday.

April is one of the best times to visit Istanbul. Because only in this month every year, the international tulip festival is held in Istanbul. This time is also the best because it is supported by the weather which is also cool and comfortable. Not too hot but not too cold either.

On the other hand, if you are planning to come to Turkiye during the summer , make sure that you will visit the best place in the coastal area of Turkiye. Beautiful beaches in Turkiye are always ready to give you the best experience for your summer vacation. And also you can consider taking a boat trip during summer in Turkiye.

Everything we explained here is about deciding the best places in Turkiye for its every season.

Make sure that you plan a good Turkiye itinerary for your vacation. A good itinerary will definitely make your vacation enjoyable and will certainly create experiences that are hard to forget.

Determining the best places (tourist spots) in Turkiye that you will visit is the key to the quality of your vacation. Make sure you don’t miss what Turkiye has to offer to pamper its guests for its every month.

Keep reading this article. We will explain more in detail about when the best time to visit Turkiye for your enjoyable holiday is.

To make it easier, we will split its information later on a monthly basis for every season in Turkiye.

A little note first, here are the seasons in Turkiye by month:

• Winter: December, January, February, and March.
• Spring: April and May.
• Summer: June, July, August, September.
• Autumn: Late September, October and November.

What is Turkiye like for a holiday? Is it worth visiting and having a vacation here?

This question is also often asked by a lot of people.

But unfortunately, we can’t answer the question specifically. In a good way, Turkiye is flexible for someone who wants to have a holiday here.

We say that because Turkiye always offers impressive things in every season.

Definitely, it is worth visiting Turkiye and vacationing here. There isn’t a single season that doesn’t have anything special in Turkiye. In winter, Turkiye offers snow and international standard ski resorts. In spring, Turkiye colors its area with tulips. In summer, Turkiye will spoil you with its beautiful beaches. And in autumn, Turkiye will show you how beautiful nature is with beautiful leaves that turn yellow and golden orange.

You can choose either a leisure trip or a historical trip in Turkiye.

In almost every city in Turkiye is having historical places. Besides that, Turkiye also rich in beautiful natures. In a city, you can have a great combination of those kinds of trips.

It is very possible for having a leisure trip and a historical trip at the same time in Turkiye.

For the quick example, if you are planning to have a holiday in summer, one of the best destinations in Turkiye is Antalya. This city offers beautiful beaches and some historic sites.

To arrange a good itinerary, we strongly recommend you to understand the season first. Every season, Turkiye offers different uniqueness that you can enjoy.

We hope you will not make a mistake when deciding on the best place to visit in your Turkiye travel itinerary.

Best time to visit Turkiye in December January February and March 2024.

In the month of December, January, February, and March, Turkiye generally are in winter. For sure when you are planning to visit Turkiye in these months, don’t miss to visit some Turkish’s best winter destinations .

Feel its soft snow and enjoy skiing in one of the best ski resorts in Turkiye.

Certainly, winter holidays around the world will always be synonymous with snow, as well as winter in Turkiye. Here you can do skiing, or just playing and having fun with the snow.

And even a lot of travelers around the world said that Turkiye is better to be visited during winter.

A lot of skiers from all around the world, even they are professional ones or not, when winter is coming they will definitely arrange a trip and make sure that they are going to visit some ski resort in Turkiye.

And this also applies to you.

Are you planning to visit Turkiye during winter in December, January, February, or March? Don’t forget to include visiting a ski resort in Turkiye on your itinerary. Ski resorts which are located close to Istanbul can be your consideration.

In general, we have an article that is describing Turkiye’s best winter destinations. >> Click here: Best winter destinations in Turkiye.

TRAVEL TIPS. If you are one of those who want to tour several regions in Turkiye and visit tourist attractions during winter, you can consider including more than one place in Turkiye that is good for winter holidays in your itinerary. >> Check out the itinerary idea here: 7-day Turkiye winter itinerary.

Why you should visit Turkiye in winter: January, February, March, or December 2024?

If we are talking about tourism in Turkiye, for sure, this country is well known for its best tourism destination for the summer vacation . But here we have to be fair also. Turkiye has a lot of winter tourism destinations that you can consider.

Some of the advantages when visiting Turkiye in winter in December, January, February, or March, is the condition that’s not too crowded with visitors over there, and prices in Turkiye this current time are cheaper if compared with prices during the summer season.

The experience of going to Turkiye in winter.

Not all region in Turkiye has the same winter experience. But in general, winter in Turkiye takes place between the mid of December until the mid of March yearly.

Every region in Turkiye has a different winter quality. An area in Turkiye may have mild to heavy snow, or only rain in dry and cold weather.

With the advantage of conditions that are not too crowded, your access when visiting tourist spots in Turkiye will certainly be more comfortable because you do not need to jostle with people and you can avoid long queues.

And one more thing, the international flight ticket price to Turkiye is relatively cheaper.

As Turkiye has a new and huge international airport in Istanbul, there are definitely more flight options you can choose to reach Turkiye.

Temperature and weather in Turkiye during the winter months of December January February March 2024.

Winter temperatures have a range from -13°C to 24°C depending on the climate zone in Turkiye. Even temperatures in Cappadocia Turkey can reach below 0°C.

Some regions in Turkey will have thick snow during winter.

So if there is a question: “is Turkey hot in February?” Of course, the answer is no. Although the quality of winter varies from region to region, in general, it is cold during winter in December, January, February, and March in Turkey.

Best places to visit in Turkey in winter: January, February, March, or December 2024.

If you allow us to provide recommendations, at least one ski resort you should put on your Turkey winter trip itinerary . The world recognizes, ski resorts in Turkey are as interesting as ski resorts in Switzerland. Some of the destinations we recommend here are the Uludag Ski Resort in Bursa and the Erciyes ski resort in Cappadocia.

If we compare Uludag ski resort and Erciyes ski resort based on its position, then the Uludag ski resort is the winner.

The city of Bursa is near to Istanbul. It only needs about two hours driving from Istanbul.

Before visiting Uludag ski resort in Bursa, you can still have the opportunity to take some Istanbul city tour packages visiting its popular tourist spots such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, and Topkapi Palace.

Or for a better experience, you can go to Istanbul the day before, stay at one of the best hotels in Istanbul , and then the next day you go to Bursa.

Next, the winter tourism spot that we are really recommending in Turkey is Cappadocia. Cappadocia itself is originally has been listed as one of the best winter destinations in Turkey.

Based on its geographical position, Cappadocia is also in the list of the region in Turkey that has thick snow. And even here, the temperature in Cappadocia during winter can reach under 0°C.

Not only skiing, in the early morning you can enjoy the Hot Air Balloon Cappadocia.

You can witness the beauty and purity of Cappadocia that are covered by the white soft-snow from above.

Very interesting!

>> Read also: Best ski resorts in Turkey near Istanbul.

A distinct advantage if you are planning a vacation in Istanbul and Cappadocia. There are several popular tourist spots that can be visited on the way from Istanbul to Cappadocia.

>> Check out some of the recommendations here: The best tour packages from Istanbul to Cappadocia.

Are you planning to vacation in Turkey during winter? Some of these tips and guides might be useful for you:

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Best time to visit Turkey in April and May 2024.

Precisely in April, a lot of travelers recognize that this time range is one of the best times to visit Turkey. Besides the cool air which is very comfortable for vacationing, Turkey holds an international event known as the Turkish Tulip Festival 2024.

History says that Turkey is one of the places of Tulip’s origins.

Some people do not know about this. Most people assume that Tulips are originally from the Netherlands. But the fact is not telling us like this.

Here is the story…

Many centuries ago, Tulips had already loved by the Ottoman Empire.

Ogier Ghiselin de Busbecq , in the 16th century, he served as ambassador of the Habsburg monarchy for the Ottoman Empire. When he visited the Turkish sultan, he got some tulip bulbs to be brought back to Vienna.

The Turkish sultan: Suleiman the Magnificant was a fan of Tulip.

De Busbecq then gave the bulbs to his friend who was also a Flemish botanist: Charles de l’Écluse.

When Charles left Vienna to teach at a university in Leiden, Netherlands, he also brought the bulbs along with him.

Charles started planting them in there.

Since that time, the bulb tulip has been much cultivated in the Netherlands.

And now, every April, the government of Turkey makes Istanbul as a heaven of tulip.

Why you should visit Turkey in spring: April or May 2024.

A lot of travelers around the world assume that the best time to visit Turkey is in spring or autumn. If we talk spring, it would be in April or May this year. Turkey offers very comfortable weather and temperature, and a clear sky.

The other advantage in this time range is still not too many visitors in Turkey. You can do a city tour of Istanbul without rushing, so you can enjoy the tulips that were deliberately planted in Istanbul in April in comfort.

It’s very pleasing to have a vacation in the spring in Turkey.

Temperature and weather in Turkey in the spring months of April or May 2024.

The temperature in spring here is in a range of 13°C to 21°C on a daily basis. In the daytime, the temperature can reach 21°C and could drop until 10°C in the evening.

Averagely, it’s about three degrees Celcius more if compared with the temperature in March.

Best places to visit in Turkey in spring: April 2024.

You are the one who asked: “Where to go in Turkey in April?”

Then this section is the answer for you. As we mentioned here before, every April in a year, Turkey holds a big international event called “International Turkey Tulip Festival 2022”.

Especially in Istanbul, this city would be very beautiful and full of colorful tulip.

We highly recommend you to visit the best tourist spots in Istanbul for your spring break , one of which is the Emirgan National Park in Istanbul Turkey.

Emirgan Park is one of the largest parks in the city of Istanbul Turkey.

This national park is a historical urban park located in the Sariyer district of Istanbul. It is on the European coast of Bosphorus.

Make sure to list Emirgan Park on your Turkey travel itinerary.

June, July, August, and September 202 4: Best time to visit Turkey’s Turquoise beaches.

These months (June, July, August, September) are the best times as well as the most popular months for vacationing in Turkey. Tourists all over the world admit it. They deliberately wanted to come to Turkey in the summer because they wanted to enjoy the turquoise beaches along the coastline here.

We note that most visitors coming to Turkey in summer are from European countries. However, in recent years, tourists from the US and Asia have also started to come to Turkey for summer holidays here.

Why you should visit Turkey in summer: June, July, or August 2024.

If statistically in this time range Turkey is visited by many international travelers, it means Turkey has something that is indeed worth offering.

Summer vacation means going to the beach.

And in fact, Turkey has a coastline that can reach up to 8.000 km long with at least 459 beautiful blue beaches.

The coastline here is what a lot of travelers pursue during their summer vacation in Turkey.

Turkey keeps some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Temperature and weather in Turkey in the summer months of June, July, or August 2024.

The average temperature in Turkey during the summer season is in range of 25°C up to 29°C. It can drop until 16°C in the evening.

This data is taken based on the average temperature in Istanbul Turkey.

Best places to visit in Turkey during the summer: June, July, or August 2024.

This area is famous for Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. This is the area that contains the most sun and sea. In general, the best places of Turkish beach spots here you can find between Antalya and Fethiye.

All the coastlines here have beautiful sandy sweeps and backed by natural forests.

Very natural and awesome!

Not only that, when you are not at the beach, you can find some ancient cities and museums around those beaches. Some of them are Kaleici, Kayakoy (Levissi) Abandoned Village, Aspendos, Crusader Castle, Chimaera, Kings’ Tomb, Temples of Apollo & Athena, and much more.

It’s very worth having a summer holiday in Turkey.

Review those spots first, and then decide. Don’t forget to add it to your Turkey travel itinerary.

Summer: Best time to visit Antalya Turkey.

Since Antalya is home to naturally beautiful beaches, summer in June, July, August, or September is the best time to visit Antalya. Here, in one of the best hotels in Antalya , we can spend time enjoying the Turkish summer.

Antalya is one of the fastest-growing cities in Turkey. The location is on the southwest coast of Anatolia. The main reason why you should visit this city is that Antalya offers the best mixing of beautiful beaches and its traditional culture.

Among a lot of cities in Turkey, Antalya is the fifth populous city. At least there are more than one million people stayed here.

Regarding the facts above, Antalya is included in one of the metropolitan cities in Turkey.

As the biggest international sea resort, the government has invested huge funds for some large scale development here. The projects are mostly to promote the tourism industry in Antalya.

Besides the great beaches , Antalya also keeps some ancient sites.

After having fun at the beaches, you can continue your journey exploring the old history here such as Hadrian’s Gate, Iskele Mosque, Karatay Medrese, Kesik Minare Mosque, Tekeli Mehmet Pasa Mosque, Yat Limani, and Yivli Minare Mosque.

>> Find out here: Best beaches for summer holiday in Turkey.

In the summer, Antalya also offers a unique experience that you can enjoy, which is a tour with a Gulet cruise.

With boat trips , you can travel along the coastline in Turkey. You will relax, and do many other activities on board. And even you will spend the night on this Gulet.

Consider taking a tour on the Gulet cruise while you are on holiday in Turkey in the summer.

>> You can see the holiday ideas here: 4-Day 3-Night Blue Gulet Cruise From Olympos (Antalya) To Fethiye Turkey

Summer is a great time for a longer staycation in Turkey. You can consider some of our recommended hotels below:

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Best time to visit Turkey in late September, October, and November 2024.

In late September, October, and November, you will meet the autumn season in Turkey. The weather at this season is very comfortable. The cool weather will complete your experience in enjoying the beautiful gold color when the leaves are falling.

As we informed you in the previous section of this article, regarding the weather, autumn and spring are the best time for having a holiday in Turkey.

Many conditions during the autumn will make your trip to Turkey more perfect.

Why you should visit Turkey in autumn: late September, October, or November 2024.

We previously told you that many visitors come to Turkey during the fall. Some of the conditions we mean here are comfortable weather, not too crowded with visitors, prices that are not high in Turkey, and the most important thing is that Turkey turns into beautiful scenery like a very artistic painting.

Besides the spring, autumn is another best time to visit Turkey.

As our own experience, the autumn in Turkey is different. The atmosphere here is very natural.

When you visiting a coastal area of Turkey, the water here is still warm.

A lot of hotel rooms are already booked. The prices in Turkey are also relatively cheap.

If you still confuse about deciding when you are going to have a holiday in Turkey, then you really should consider this season.

Temperature and weather in Turkey in the autumn months of late September, October, or November 2024.

In this range of months, we notice that the weather is getting lower. The temperature at night can reach 12°C, and reach 28°C in the afternoon.

Very comfortable for having a vacation in Turkey.

Best places to visit in Turkey during the autumn: late September, October, or November 2024.

What special thing during the autumn season is witnessing the beautiful scenery in Turkey. A lot of places offer the best experience enjoying the natural phenomena that are nature turns into a yellow or gold atmosphere.

Leaves are falling.

Autumn is one of the best times to visit Turkey. The weather is comfortable. And some summer’s best destinations still can be visited, as the water of the beach is still warm.

We note that some places are very worthed to be visited. Here is the list:

• Cappadocia.

Some places on the list are in Turkey’s coastal area. For example, as you can see that Fethiye is on the list.

If you don’t have much time, you can still be a person who witnesses beautiful Turkey during the autumn fall.

We strongly recommend you to visit Yedigöller National Park. The park is close to Istanbul. Precisely in the north of Bolu province in Turkey.

A little story about this national park, Yedigoller means “seven lakes’.

There are seven lakes in the Yedigoller National Park. Those lakes named Buyukgol, Deringol, Seringol, Nazligol, Sazligol, Incegol, and Kucukgol.

Here visitors could enjoy both rich landscapes and wildlife.

Especially in autumn, the trees here are turning into red, yellow, and green.

You must see it by yourself.

( click on image to enlarge )

What to do in Turkey for a week.

A week: a 7-day itinerary is a good choice for your vacation in Turkey. In general, without knowing its season either winter spring summer or autumn, in a week you can visit some cities such as Istanbul, Bursa, Izmir/Kusadasi, Pamukkale, Konya, Cappadocia, and Ankara in a single trip.

For sure, a 7-day tour is still can be customized, depends on what season you are having your holiday.

For example: When you go to Turkey in the summer, from Pamukkale, you can visit Antalya first, and then on the next day you can continue your trip to Cappadocia via Konya.

And to save time, you can take a domestic flight from Cappadocia to Istanbul.

The 7-day Turkey tour itinerary can vary, depending on your expectations. We recommend you to seek information for some Turkey tour itinerary for your reference.

7 days is one of the best durations for a vacation in Turkey. Some of the following packages or itineraries might be your reference:

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Conclusion: The best time (month or season) to travel or having a vacation in Turkey in 2024.

You are reading this section, we are sure you already understand why every moment (month or season) is the best time to visit Turkey.

This article is carefully written based on our own Turkey trip review.

The key to having a great holiday here is its Turkey travel itinerary arrangement.

Understand the season which will be your desired time for your holiday in Turkey.

Each season: winter, spring, summer, or autumn, Turkey is a good option for your holiday destination.

On the other hand, there is are cities that are suitable for every season in Turkey. For example, every season is the best time to visit Istanbul and Cappadocia.

Many tourists who vacation in Turkey, surely include Istanbul and Cappadocia in their holiday itineraries.

We have an example of an itinerary that only visits Istanbul and Cappadocia. This itinerary is often used as the basis for planning a vacation in Turkey. Not a few tourists also modified it so they could visit other cities in Turkey.

>> You can see the itinerary here: A short tour visiting Istanbul and Cappadocia in Turkey.

By understanding which places you are going to visit, it will also determine the duration of your vacation.

Based on our experience, a 7-day tour in Turkey is also a good option. You can visit more tourist attractions in your one week vacation in Turkey.

The 6 days 7 nights Turkey itinerary we mean is suitable for all seasons in Turkey. In this itinerary, you can entirely use a road trip.

And even on the main route, you can also visit Kusadasi where the city is one of the major resort cities in Turkey, where in summer you can visit its beaches, and in other seasons you can visit other best tourist spots in Kusadasi such as historical sites, amusement parks, and also shopping places. Make sure you stay at one of the best hotels in Kusadasi.

Ok lastly, when you have decided on the date you are going to visit Turkey, make sure also that you have arranged the visa.

Applying a Turkey visa for the purpose of tourism is simple. Click this link for visa information for foreigners.

So what are you waiting for? Plan your desired vacation in Turkey from now on.

Do you want an easy and comfortable vacation in Turkey? You might want to consider the following Turkey tour packages:

Best Private 3 Nights 4 Days Gulet Charter: Cruise Tour From Kas To Kekova In Turkey In 2023

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4-Day 3-Night Blue Gulet Cruise From Olympos (Antalya) To Fethiye Turkey

Summer vacation in Turkey is one of the most popular activities for tourists from all over the world. At least you should plan a vacation that has a different sensation. One of them can by using a 4-Day 3-Night Blue Gulet Cruise From Olympos (Antalya) To Fethiye Turkey tour package. Did you know that Turkey…

Recommended (At An Affordable Price) Private Luxury Tours of Istanbul Turkey 2023

Private and luxury tours in Istanbul Turkey are the right answer for travelers who want to get a more personal experience when they are on vacation in Istanbul. It turns out that not a few tourists have recently been looking for private tour packages in Istanbul, Turkey. A tourist’s expectation of a tour package in…

2 Days PRIVATE Tour Cappadocia From Istanbul By Plane: A Convenient Quick Turkey Tour Package Recommendation

It is not easy now to find a short but comfortable Turkey tour package. Not only sightseeing for instagrammable photos, but also getting a quality tour experience. A 2 days private tour visiting Cappadocia from Istanbul with return flights is the perfect answer. Not everyone has a lot of time when they come to Turkey….

Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Tour From Istanbul: A Perfect Way To Have A Superb Experience In A Short Time

People look for a Cappadocia hot air balloon tour package from Istanbul because they crave simplicity. They don’t want to deal with many parties associated with ticketing arrangements, hotels, transportation, etc. They want to be served from departure from Istanbul, tour in Cappadocia, hot air balloon ride and return back to Istanbul comfortably. Istanbul and…

Mount Erciyes Ski Tour: One Of The Cappadocia Top Things To Do In Winter 2023

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Turkey Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, turkey - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

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

Do Not Travel To:

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

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

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

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

If you decide to travel to Turkey:

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

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

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

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

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24 Best Places to Visit in Turkey in 2023

Turkey, a country that bridges two continents, is a fascinating tapestry of historical marvels, vibrant cultures, and breath-taking landscapes. As Turkey gears up for a memorable 2023, the centennial anniversary of the founding of the republic, it promises to offer an extraordinary experience for travellers. Join us as we explore the top 24 best places to visit in Turkey in 2023, offering a blend of traditions, natural wonders, and architectural treasures.

Table of Contents

Turkey’s largest city is an enchanting blend of ancient history and modern life. Start your journey in Istanbul, Turkey’s vibrant capital, where East and West seamlessly coexist. Visit the iconic Hagia Sophia , Blue Mosque , and Topkapi Palace . Don’t miss out on the mesmerizing Bosphorus cruise and vibrant Grand Bazaar .

What to See in Istanbul Turkey

Istanbul is a city that never ends. You’ll never run out of things to see and do, no matter how long you stay. It is a cultural melting pot, a repository of history, and an exhibition of limitless beauty. Istanbul has a certain allure that will capture everyone. From its numerous historical sites, luxury neighbourhoods, and traditional bazaars to its bustling boulevards, coastal districts, islands, cruise ships, activities, concerts, and festivals, and so much more, this city has something for everyone.

Some of the  key sites  include:

• Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia) – The Hagia Sophia, a monument that transformed the path of Western architecture and served as the greatest church in Christendom for 1000 years, is one of Istanbul’s most recognisable attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
• Blue Mosque – Join a guided tour of the two most famous monuments in Istanbul: the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Enjoy an introduction to Sultanahmet and the Hippodrome as you witness local life with a guide.
• Topkapi Palace – One of the world’s oldest and largest palaces, was home to Ottoman Sultans for about 400 years. With skip-the-line tickets , take a guided tour of Topkapi Palace and its Harem. Admire its opulence and mystery while learning about Istanbul’s history.
• Bosphorus cruise – Take in sights of the Bosphorus on board a mega yacht. Enjoy the city view with a 3-course meal while you listen to live music and watch stage performances at private tables.

Famous for its unique rock formations and cave hotels, Cappadocia is a must-visit destination. Experience the magic of Cappadocia’s unique rock formations and hot air balloon rides at sunrise. Explore the hidden underground cities and be amazed by the fascinating fairy chimneys that dot the landscape.

What to See in Cappadocia Turkey

Every year, tourists from all over the world rush to Cappadocia to discover what this magical area is all about. This location is well-known for numerous things, including fairy chimneys, underground cities, cave hotels, and the famed hot air balloons. It’s the one site you’ll remember your first visit to, especially if you intend to buy a Turkish rug or hand-painted ceramics!

• Göreme Open-Air Museum -This tiny valley, studded with stunning mediaeval painted churches, is the most visited attraction in Cappadocia, hence it is frequently crowded. Small churches, for example, may be crowded with guests, so plan your visit accordingly.
• Hiking Cappadocia – Trekking or walking along one of Cappadocia’s many picturesque paths is the ideal way to see the moonscape in depth.
• Hot-Air Balloon Flight – Glide above the amazing rock formations of Cappadocia on a hot air balloon ride. See the fairy chimneys from a different angle, 2,000 feet up, and feel comfortable because you’re flying with an experienced tour providers .
• Cappadocia To ur – On this full-day tour with an experienced guide , see the best sites Cappadocia has to offer. From the Goreme Open Air Museum to Underground City, Uchisar Castle, Devrent Valley, and Paşaba Valley, marvel at amazing monuments.

Marvel at the stunning white terraces of Pamukkale, known for their natural thermal waters. Witness the surreal beauty of Pamukkale’s calcium-rich terraces and thermal pools. Take a dip in the warm mineral-rich waters and visit the nearby ancient city of Hierapolis.

What to See in Pamukkale Turkey

Pamukkale and its surroundings are home to historically significant sites as well as uncultivated natural phenomena. Some of its treasures are well-known and widely travelled, while others are less well-known but equally enticing.

• Pamukkale Thermal Pools – Pamukkale’s most famous attraction, natural terraces and dazzling blue pools of sparkling white calcium precipitated from the cooling mineral water.
• Hierapolis Ancient City – Hierapolis, a Roman spa town, has two entrances and features a cemetery, colonnaded walkways, a historic pool, an archaeology museum, and a Roman theatre. Within Hierapolis, you will find this Antique Pool of warm mineral water, surrounded by oleanders and littered with tumbled marble columns, is the most atmospheric place to experience the spa’s waters.
• Laodicea Ancient City – Laodicea, one of the Seven Churches of Revelation, is a 5500-year-old city located between Denizli and Pamukkale. It’s worth a visit because archaeologists have nicely repaired it.

Step back in time at Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Marvel at the Temple of Artemis , the Library of Celsus, and the Great Theatre , which once entertained thousands.

• Temple of Artemis – One of the  Seven Wonders of the World  in ancient times, the   Temple of Artemis (Artemision)   at Ephesus was a famous place of pilgrimage for centuries.
• Library of Celsus – The Library of Celsus is an architectural marvel and one of the few surviving examples of major libraries from the ancient world in the Roman Empire. It was the third-largest library in the Greco-Roman world, after Alexandria and Pergamum, and was thought to have held over 12,000 scrolls.
• The Great Theatre – Vast amphitheatre from the 3rd century BC, with marble columns & the remains of an ancient stage.

This Mediterranean city has something for everyone, with its stunning beaches, waterfalls, and ancient ruins. Bask in the sun at Antalya, known for its stunning turquoise beaches and luxury resorts. Explore the ancient ruins of Aspendos and Perge, or simply relax and enjoy the warm Mediterranean waters.

What to See in Antalya Turkey

Antalya is a beautiful Turkish seaside city. It’s famous for its beautiful beaches, lovely old town, and historic ruins.

• Hadrian Gat e – The most stunning landmark in Antalya is without a doubt the massive gate leading into the Kaleiçi. The Hadrian’s Gate (tr. Hadriyanüs Kapisi) or the Triple Gate (tr. Üçkaplar) are two names for it. The first name commemorates the city’s historical past, when the Roman Emperor Hadrian visited it in the second century AD, while the second relates to the appearance of the monument, which has three archways.
• Lara Beach – Lara Beach is a gorgeous sandy spot that is well worth a visit. It’s one of the most popular beaches in Antalya.
• Konyaaltı Beach – Konyaalt Beach is one of Antalya’s two main beaches, the other being Lara Beach. The beach is located on the city’s western outskirts and spans for 13 km. It is mostly made up of tiny pebbles, but there is some sand as well. The water is crystal clear.

A popular destination for sailing, Bodrum is also home to magnificent castles, museums, and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. For sun-seekers, Bodrum offers a glamorous coastal getaway. Explore its picturesque marina, visit the impressive Bodrum Castle, and soak up the vibrant nightlife.

What to See in Bodrum Turkey

Bodrum is well-known for its historical sites, boat trips, and upmarket tourism options. Celebrities and influencers flock here for a lavish Turkish vacation. With beautiful beaches and excellent restaurants, Bodrum has something for everyone.

• Castle of St. Peter – Today, the Bodrum Castle houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which is unique in Turkey and one of the world’s most important Underwater Archaeology Museums. The original plan and character of the Knights’ time are preserved in the Bodrum Castle, which displays Gothic architecture.
• The Mausoleum – It was an ancient marvel site for 1500 years before being devastated by an earthquake. Even though it is now only made up of stones and boulders, it is nevertheless worth a visit to grasp its significance. It’s a twisting path from the marina. There are films and models to demonstrate how it appeared.
• Yacht Cruises – Bodrum is a popular sailing destination in Turkey. If you do not wish to embark on a week-long Blue Voyage, you may easily enjoy a day sail around the Bodrum peninsula, with stops for lunch and swimming. Bodrum offers several shore excursions to other islands and beaches that can only be reached by boat. You can talk to the captains the night before your cruise by going down to the harbour.

Mount Nemrut

Mount Nemrut is one of Turkey’s most prominent and frequented attractions, located in the southeast area of Anatolia. The statues of King Antiochus are the main feature of the site. When visiting the site, you just must see the magnificent king’s statue. Aside from the statues, the rocky plateau and scenery of the Mount Nemrut region have many more things to explore. If you want to learn more about the area’s history, this is the best place to start.

Is Mount Nemrut Safe to Hike alone?

Yes. Mount Nemrut is safe to hike alone, provided you have the proper Hiking Gear and Clothing . If you ae more interested in joining a group of hikers, you can join hiking tour here . The best time to hike Mount Nemrut is between July & August or at least between late May and mid October. Always check the weather before climbing Mount Nemrut, you might be blocked by thick snow.

Ani is a ruined mediaeval Armenian city in Turkey’s Kars province, near the closed border with Armenia. It was the capital of the Bagratid Armenian kingdom that spanned much of modern-day Armenia and eastern Turkey between 961 and 1045.

What to See in Ani Turkey

It would take several days to completely explore the place. The key features, though, may be visited in half a day.

• the  cathedral of Ani , completed in 1001 AD but shattered by a huge earthquake in 1319;
• Ebu’l Manuçehr Mosque , believed to be the first mosque in Anatolia, built-in 1072;
• Church of Tigran Honents  (Church of St. Gregory), one of the best-preserved structures, containing unique frescoes and intricate architecture;
• Church of the Holy Redeemer , an iconic building that has been split in half by lightning; and
• the impressive  city walls .

In addition to the aforementioned structures, there are numerous smaller structures, chapels, residences, baths, fortifications, and even a Silk Road caravanserai scattered throughout the huge archaeological complex. In 2016, UNESCO inscribed the Ani ruins on the World Heritage List.

Sumela Monastery

The 1000-year-old Monastery of the Virgin Mary at Sumela is one of Turkey’s most beautiful attractions. The monastery’s alpine setting, clinging to a sheer rock cliff in the midst of dense evergreen forests loud with the splash of chill mountain streams, comes as a surprise to those who think of Turkey as a land of rolling steppe.

NOTE: Once a year, on  August 15th , a Greek Orthodox service is held at the monastery, and special permission from the Ecumenical Orthodox Patriarchate is required to enter.

How to get to Sumela Monastery?

There are multiple ways to get to the Sumela Monastery:

Driving Up to the Monastery from Trabzon

Follow signs for Sumela Manastery south on Highway E97/D885 to Maçka, then turn left onto a narrower road leading up into the gorge.

Altndere Valley National Park presently protects the territory surrounding the monastery. You’ll arrive at the park’s entrance, where you’ll pay a TL15 admission fee per car to enter.

You’ll pass multiple trout hatcheries that take advantage of the chilly mountain stream. Small restaurants serve fish lunches to hungry tourists.

You arrive at the cliff’s base, with the monastery towering above you. This is a little parking lot with various restaurants, tea shops, and free picnic tables perched just over the flowing stream—an enticing position.

Driving Up to the Monastery

You may drive or take a minibus dolmuş up the steep hill to the monastery. The route is small and twisty, with several blind bends and portions that can only accommodate one vehicle.

You’ll follow the stunning gorge and the creek, which you’ll cross on bridges several times along the way.

There is relatively limited parking near the top. You may need to park along the small road and walk the rest of the way to the monastery path.

Hiking Up to the Sumela Monastery

Explore the Sümela Monastery on a full-day tour with a guide . Experience a hike to a monastery, enjoy delicious cuisine from the Black Sea, admire views of Zigana Mountain, and much more.

You can hike up to the Sumela Monastery on your own as well, You can walk up to the monastery from the eateries at the bottom of the cliff if you want. It’s a 1-kilometer (6/10-mile) ascent that takes 35 to 45 minutes and rises 250 metres (820 feet).

A legendary city, Troy is a fascinating place to explore and learn about the city’s history. Uncover the legendary history of Troy, an ancient city immortalized by Homer’s epic tales. Wander through the archaeological site and discover the secrets of this fabled city.

Visit Pergamon, an ancient city boasting impressive historical ruins and breath-taking views. This ancient city was once home to one of the world’s most important libraries. Don’t miss the Pergamon Acropolis , Asclepion, and the Red Basilica.

The Acropolis of Pergamum (Pergamon) is undeniably impressive, located atop a towering, steep-sided hill to the northeast of the current city centre.

The Traianeum, or Temple of Trajan, is the most notable structure here, a massive marble temple that has been largely rebuilt from fragments discovered on the site.

Next to it lies the Temple of Athena, which has been largely rebuilt. Pergamum’s famous 200,000-volume library was located between the Traianeum and the Athena temple.

The Lycian Way Hiking Trail Turkey

Turkey’s first long-distance hiking route offers stunning views of the Mediterranean coastline. It is a 500-kilometer (311-mile)  footpath from Fethiye to Antalya. The  way-marked trail  wanders up and down through  ancient Lycia , Mediterranean Turkey‘s mountainous  Tekke Peninsula .

The Basilica Cistern

Hundreds of gloomy Byzantine cisterns lay beneath Istanbul. They date back to the days when Istanbul was known as Constantinople. Most large and important Byzantine structures had water storage beneath them. The Basilica Cistern, so named because it was located beneath the Stoa Basilica, a large Byzantine public area, is the most impressive of all. It is also known as the Sunken Palace Cistern.

The Basilica Cistern is located in Sultanahmet Square, at the northeastern end of the Hippodrome, just off Divan Yolu, near several other tourist sites. Because it is close to the Blue Mosque and Ayasofya, you can easily combine your visits.

The best way to reach there is to take the tram to Sultanahmet / Blue Mosque station.

The Selimiye Mosque

This magnificent mosque in Edirne is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Konya’s Selimiye Mosque, located near to the Mevlâna Museum, is an example of Ottoman-style mosque architecture from the great Ottoman period. Sultan Selim II established the mosque while still an Ottoman prince and governor of the region of Konya. It was completed when he was appointed Sultan.

The Whirling Dervish Ceremony

This Sufi spiritual ceremony is a unique experience, offering visitors a glimpse into Turkey’s rich culture. The dervish singing and whirling lasts around one hour.

Every evening at 19:30, Mevlevi dervishes perform the whirling sema ceremony in the Hodjapasha Art & Culture Centre near Sirkeci Station, just down the hill from Sultanahmet.

The Hodjapasha Art & Culture Centre , housed in a renovated Ottoman edifice (originally a Turkish bath), provides an atmospheric setting worthy of the solemn rite; and tickets to performances at the Centre are simpler to obtain than at other venues.

The Maiden’s Tower

Also known as Leander’s Tower, this tower in Istanbul has a fascinating history and offers stunning views of the city. It translates to “Maiden’s Tower” in Turkish. The name stems from a mythology in which the Byzantine emperor heard a premonition that his beloved daughter would be killed by a snake when she was 18 years old. So he decided to put her in this tower built on a rock on the Bosphorus that was secluded from the rest of the world, so that no snake could harm her.

Mardin, Southeastern Turkey

This historic city is known for its stunning architecture, including well-preserved traditional houses and monasteries.

The city is built on a hilltop with a view of the Mesopotamian plains to the south. Mardin is located on one of the primary highways connecting Turkey to Syria and Iraq. According to legend, the city’s history dates back to the Flood. The Hurri-Mitani, Hittites, Surs, Babylonians, Persians, Romans, Arabs, and Seljuk Turks ruled over the city. Later, the Mardin branch of the Artuklu Kingdom called “Tabaka Ilgaziyye” was created, and the city flourished during this time.

The city was called “Marde” by the Persians, “Mardia” by the Byzantines, “Maridin” by the Arabs, and “Merde-Merdo-Merdi” by the Syriacs. These were renamed “Mardin” after the Turks took over the area.

Pay tribute to World War I heroes at the Gallipoli Peninsula. Visit the battlefields, cemeteries , and memorials that honor the soldiers who fought during the Gallipoli Campaign.

“Beautiful city” is what Gallipoli means, and the city surely lives up to its moniker!

Gallipoli, located on the west Ionian coast of Puglia’s Salento peninsula, is not as well-known as its Turkish counterpart, the location of the terrible First World War fight, but its history is extensive and varied, its mediaeval town is a delight, and the beaches that flank it are spectacular.

The historic district is located on a small island connected to the mainland by a 17th-century bridge. It is almost fully surrounded by defensive walls, most of which were built in the 14th century.

The fortification on the east side dates from the 13th century but was completely rebuilt in the 1500s when the town fell under Angevin authority.

Mount Ararat

Embark on an adventure and attempt to conquer Mount Ararat, Turkey’s highest peak. This snow-capped mountain offers breath-taking views and an unforgettable hiking experience.

Mount Ararat, famous in the Bible as the last resting location of Noah’s Ark, has been enshrouded in tales for millennia. Its two peaks, Great Ararat (5137 meters/16,854 feet) and Little Ararat (3895 meters/12,779 feet), were adored by the ancient Urartu (13th to 7th century BC) people, who gave the mountain its name.

The closest settlement to the mountain is Doubayazt.

Visit Turkey’s capital, Ankara, to explore its modern and ancient landmarks. Don’t miss the impressive Ataturk Mausoleum and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations.

What to See in Ankara Turkey

The majority of historic sites are concentrated on or near the steep hill crowned by Ankara’s ancient Hisar, including the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations.

• Museum of Anatolian Civilizations – This wonderful museum, housed in a mediaeval caravanserai preserving 7500 years of cultural splendour, is especially rich in art and artefacts from the Hittite era (2600 to 1300 BCE).
• Hisar (Citadel) – This hilltop stronghold, known as the kale, is the oldest section of Ankara. You may explore its enormous walls and climb to the top to appreciate the view, and you’ll find yourself in an authentic Turkish hamlet!
• Ahi Serafettin Mosque & Tomb  – The Seljuk Turkish Ahi Serafettin Mosque & Tomb has stood on the citadel hill since 1290, however it was recently renovated. It is generally only open during prayer hours, so if you want to see this 700-year-old mosque, plan to arrive 15 to 20 minutes after the call to prayer.
• Hacı Bayram Mosque & Tomb – Hac Bayram Veli (1352-1430) was an Ankara-born Sufi (Muslim mystic) teacher. He became a disciple of Sheikh Hamiduddin Veli, and after the sheikh’s death in 1412, he acquired leadership of the sheikh’s followers, a Sufi order known as the Bayrami. Hac Bayram was a wise and learned counsellor of Sultan Murat II (1404-1451), father of Sultan Mehmet II “The Conqueror.”
• Roman Ruins in Ankara, Turkey – As proven by artefacts, Ankara was a significant Roman town. The massive Temple of Augustus and Rome is now mostly damaged, but it remains spectacular. The Column of Julian commemorates a visit to the city by that Roman emperor, and vestiges of Roman baths still exist.

Trabzon Turkey

Discover the enchanting city of Trabzon, nestled between the sea and green mountains. Explore its stunning Hagia Sophia Museum , Sumela Monastery , and Uzungol Lake .

• Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia)  – The Hagia Sophia, a monument that transformed the path of Western architecture and served as the greatest church in Christendom for 1000 years, is one of Istanbul’s most recognisable attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
• Sumela Monastery – The monastery’s alpine setting, clinging to a sheer rock cliff in the midst of dense evergreen forests loud with the splash of chill mountain streams, comes as a surprise to those who think of Turkey as a land of rolling steppe.
• Uzungol Lake – Explore Uzungol Lake and the surrounding Black Sea Coast on a full-day guided bus tour from Trabzon. Sample Turkish tea, learn about Surmene knife making, and a discover historic Ottoman Bridge.

Ancient City Side

Unwind in Side, a picturesque resort town known for its Roman ruins. Explore the Temple of Apollo , ancient amphitheatre, and relax on its beautiful sandy beaches.

Side is an entirely different planet. It is one of Manavgat’s most well-known attractions. Some people advise spending an entire day in this town. Those who enjoy discovering every aspect of the ancient ruins may want to devote extra time to this place. However, Side provides little relief from the scorching summer sun, so consider visiting later in the day. After 5 p.m., the magnificence of the sunset begins.

Zeugma Mosaic Museum

Admire one of the world’s largest mosaic collections at the Zeugma Mosaic Museum in Gaziantep. Explore the intricate mosaics that tell stories of Greece and Rome.

The Roman mosaics rescued from the inundation of ancient Zeugma by a dam project are housed in the Archaeological Museum. The new museum, which cost $30 million to build expressly for the mosaics, debuted in 2011 and is just spectacular—a must-see. In fact, aside from the pistachios, it’s most likely the reason you’re in Gaziantep.

Tatvan, Lake Van

Tatvan was founded in the nineteenth century to serve the railway: when trains arrived from Istanbul and Ankara, the rail cars were loaded onto massive lake boats and transported across the vast salt Lake Van to the city of Van, from where some carriages carried on to Iran.

Uncover the mysteries of Lake Van, Turkey’s largest lake. Visit the stunning Akdamar Island and Van Castle, or simply relax on the lake’s tranquil shores

• Akdamar Island – Akdamar Island, also known as Aghtamar or Akhtamar, is the second largest of four islands in Lake Van in eastern Turkey.
• Castle of Van – The Fortress of Van is a gigantic stone stronghold built by the ancient kingdom of Urartu between the 9th and 7th century BC that is the largest example of its kind.

Turkey, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, offers endless possibilities for travellers in 2023. From the iconic city of Istanbul to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia and Pamukkale, the diverse attractions of this fascinating country will leave you with unforgettable memories. Make sure to include these top 24 best places to visit in Turkey during your travels in 2023, and embark on a journey like no other.

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10 of the best places to visit in Türkiye

Dec 14, 2023 • 6 min read

Plan your visit to Türkiye with these top places to see © rudi_suardi / Getty Images

The eclectic city of Istanbul, the fantastical rock forms of Cappadocia, the ancient ruins of Ephesus, and the glimmering Mediterranean and Aegean coastlines are Türkiye ’s biggest draws, but each region of the country has something distinct to offer.

The diversity of landscapes, heritage and culinary culture will surprise those who have never ventured beyond holiday resorts and the beach. Even though it’s easy to get around Türkiye , the country has too much to see and do to tackle it all on one trip. Because most domestic flights route through Istanbul, spend at least a few days in this dynamic global metropolis before heading out to one of our other top places to visit in Türkiye.

1. Istanbul

Best for ancient sites and modern neighborhoods

One of the world’s greatest cities, Istanbul should be on every traveler’s must-visit list. Highlight sights like the grand Byzantine basilica Aya Sofya , often called Hagia Sophia in English, and the Ottoman sultans’ lavish Topkapı Palace attest to the city’s centuries-long history as the capital of powerful empires.

But set aside some time to experience Istanbul as it is today, too. Go cafe- or bar-hopping in the hip Kadıköy neighborhood, wander the backstreets of more conservative Fatih or peruse contemporary art in Beyoğlu . Don’t forget the simple pleasure of drinking çay (tea) on the ferry while taking in spectacular views of the city.

Planning tip:  You could easily spend your entire vacation in Istanbul, but if you have the time, it's worth venturing further afield in search of other Turkish delights.

2. Cappadocia

Best for its unique landscape

Cappadocia is a geological wonderland in the center of Türkiye. The history of early Christians in Anatolia comes alive at the Göreme Open-Air Museum and the other cave churches and underground cities scattered around the valley. Romance blossoms in the area’s cozy cave hotels and restaurants, not to mention sunrise balloon rides complete with a champagne toast. Adventure awaits amid the green valleys and undulating rocks for hikers, mountain bikers and trail runners .

3. Turquoise Coast

Best for history lovers and beaches

Yes, Türkiye's  Mediterranean coastline between Fethiye and Antalya is full of beautiful places for sun, sea and sand vacations , but it’s also dappled with evidence of the ancient civilizations that once populated the area. The seaside ruins of Patara (which boasts one of Türkiye's best beaches too) and Phaselis are particularly picturesque, and the rock tombs of Myra are especially impressive. The Antalya Museum offers good insights into the region’s history. Explore by sea on a gület cruise, on foot along the Lycian Way hiking path or by driving the scenic (but winding!) coastal roads.

4. Eastern Black Sea and Kaçkar Mountains

Best for rural traditions

The rough, cold waters of the Black Sea aren’t particularly inviting, but turn your gaze inland, where lush green valleys spill down to the coast from high peaks, to see the region’s appeal. The lower elevations are home to most of Türkiye's tea and hazelnut production, while the high plateaus ( yaylalar ) like Pokut , that were once used as summer pastures for livestock, are becoming popular with tourists seeking out scenic views and a taste of traditional Black Sea culture and cuisine. Further above, the Kaçkar Mountains offer spectacular trekking in summer for experienced hikers.

Planning tip:  Trabzon, home to the cliff-side Sumela Monastery , is the area’s main hub for air travel.

5. Southeastern Anatolia

Best for culture and food

The often-overlooked southeastern Anatolia region is one of Türkiye's cultural – and culinary – stars. The cities of Gaziantep and Antakya (Hatay) are famed for their food, and both also boast museums with incredible collections of Roman mosaics. Mardin ’s picturesque, well-preserved old town also makes a great base for exploring the monasteries and Roman ruins in the surrounding area. The world’s oldest religious site, Göbeklitepe , lies just outside of Şanlıurfa, which has its own fine archaeology museum and bazaar .

6. Datça and Bozburun peninsulas

Best for relaxation

Chilling out and getting back to nature is the order of the day on the remote  Datça and Bozburun peninsulas in the south Aegean. In place of the boisterous nightlife of nearby Bodrum and Marmaris, you’ll find miles of dramatic rocky coastline, scenic rural villages, and small, quiet beach resorts and seaside towns.

Planning tip:  The Carian Trail long-distance hiking path encircles both peninsulas. Check before setting out as some sections of the route were inaccessible following wildfire damage in the summer of 2021.

7. Türkiye's far east

Best for rugged beauty

The vast landscapes of Türkiye's far east have a remote ruggedness unmatched elsewhere in the country. Perhaps best known to travelers as the terminus of the Doğu Ekpresi (Eastern Express) , a popular and scenic overnight train trip from Ankara , the border city of Kars retains striking architecture from its years as a Russian outpost in the 1800s. Nearby are the extensive and evocative UNESCO-listed ruins of Ani , an ancient Armenian capital.

A three-hour drive south will take you to the remote İshak Paşa Palace , passing by the fabled Mt Ararat (Ağrı Dağı) en route. Continue on to Van , where you can fuel up on one of the city’s famously elaborate breakfast spreads before visiting the fine museum in town and taking a day excursion to Akdamar Kilisesi , a masterfully decorated Armenian church and monastery complex on a small island in Lake Van.

8. Gallipoli and the North Aegean

Best for WWI history and ancient Troy

Cemeteries devoted to the tens of thousands of soldiers who died in bloody battles on the Gallipoli Peninsula during WWI are scattered around bucolic rolling hills, all the more poignant amidst such serenely beautiful landscapes.

The area is also the gateway to Türkiye's North Aegean coast, a more relaxed alternative to the Mediterranean where you can take a leisurely tour of pleasant seaside towns like Ayvalık and Foça, the island wineries of Bozcaada, the ancient city of Troy (with its standout museum ) and the spectacularly sited hilltop acropolis of Bergama .

9. Safranbolu

Best for Ottoman atmosphere

Named for the saffron that was grown and traded here for centuries, Safranbolu is today popular with visitors who come to soak in its old Ottoman atmosphere. Many of the town’s historic wood-framed mansions have been restored and converted into picture-perfect boutique hotels, cafes and restaurants.

Planning tip:  If it all starts to seem a little too cutesy, the canyons, waterfalls and woods of the nearby Yenice Forest are a natural tonic.

10. Pamukkale

Best for its ancient spa

The bright-white terraces of Pamukkale are surely one of the most photographed sites in Türkiye, incongruously gleaming above the rural town like freshly fallen snow. The warm mineral water that flows through them was the basis for the ancient spa city of Hierapolis , whose extensive remains sprawl out along the hilltop next to the famous travertines.

Planning tip:  Pamukkale also makes a good base for visiting other nearby ancient sites like Laodicea , Tripolis and – most notably – the gorgeous ruins of Afrodisias with its impressive collection of Roman marble sculptures.

This article was first published September 2021 and updated December 2023

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A Guide on Traveling to Turkey in 2023

Turkey is a country with incredible coastlines, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and historical sites that have seen civilizations rise and fall for centuries . It is a country for the adventurer, the hiker, for the water sports lover and for the city breaker. In short, Turkey has something for everyone.

In this guide we’ll cover many of Turkey’s ‘must-see’ highlights.

But first a few formalities that need to be handled prior to arriving in Turkey.

Start by checking visa and entry requirements

On our first visit to Turkey we hadn’t realized that  Canadians and Americans visiting Turkey require a Visa (the present visa rules came in effect in 2013).  This article  covers the Visa policy of Turkey and the countries that require OR don’t require an entry Visa.

If you do require a Visa (as we did), it’s best to apply for your  Turkish eVisa  online  before  arriving in Turkey. It’s easy and can be done in minutes.

Also good to know : As of June  2022, all Covid-related restrictions in Turkey have been removed – passengers traveling to Turkey no longer need to provide a vaccination certificate or a negative PCR test result.

Turkey’s ‘Must See’ highlights

One of the great cities of the world, home to the Hagia Sofia (Istanbul’s highlight attraction), the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, the Grand Bazaar, Spice market, Suleymanie Mosque, Galata Tower, Galata Bridge, Ortaköy Mosque, Dolmabahçe Palace…there’s so much to see in Istanbul.

See our “ 3 day in Istanbul Itinerary”  for a detailed guide.

Pamukkale has been a tourist resort since the 2nd Century AD when the Romans used it as a spa town.  A natural wonder with its hot springs and white (calcium) cliffs. At the top of the cliffs is the ancient city of Hieropoli which is worth seeing (the highlight being the impressive 12,000 seat Roman amphitheatre).

One of the largest, best preserved, and most visited archaeological sites in the world. First an ancient Greek city (in 10th Century BC), it became part of the Roman Empire in 129 BC. During this era it was second only to Rome in size and importance. Highlights include the Library of Celcius (named after the Roman senator), the Church of the Virgin Mary, The Theatre of Ephesus, the Terraced Houses Complex, and the Street of the Curates.

For beaches, waterfalls and incredible scenery, Antalya is one of Turkey’s top destinations. The city itself is pretty with large parks, a vibrant marina and  Hadrian’s Gate (the main gate into the city, it was built to celebrate Roman Emperor Hadrian’s visit in 130 AD).

It is know for its moon-like landscape, underground cave cities and fairy chimneys. The thing to do here is taking a hot air balloon ride over the countryside. You should also stay in a Cave hotel, it’s something unique to the area.

A place of beautiful landscapes and incredible beaches. Take a paragliding flight and hike to Butterfly valley. Olüdeniz has one of Turkey’s most famous beaches and has incredible turquoise waters.

It’s Turkey’s 3rd largest city as well as the westernmost city in Turkey. A great cultural destination, it has markets, a great mosque (the Blue Mosque) and a pier designed by Gustav Eiffel (the architect who designed the famous tower in Paris).

Izmir is also a great jumping off point to Ephesus and Pamukkale.

It doesn’t make it on most lists – but we though Edirne (20km from the Bulgarian border) was incredibly impressive. A small city, it was founded by the Romans as the city of Adrianople (Hadrianoupolis), i.e. “City of Hadrianus”, named after the Roman emperor Hadrian. Later, Edirne was the capital of the Ottoman empire before the defeat of the Byzantines in Constantinople (present day Istanbul).

Today the city has 3 incredible mosques, all within easy walking distance of each other.

See our post:  What to see in Edirne

Practical Information and Tips

Getting Around

Flying : Turkey has an extensive air network. 50 cities have domestic and/or international airports, most linked through Istanbul. Most domestic flights are under 2 hours long and are very affordable pricing. Turkish Airlines and Pegasus are the main carriers (both domestically and internationally) but there are other domestic carriers as well such as AnadoluJet and Sun Express.

Bus : Bus is the main way (and cheapest way) of getting around the country. Turkey has one of the most extensive bus networks in Europe. Metro Turizm,  Ulusoy ,  Kamil Koç  are 3 of the largest bus companies. Smaller destinations may not be covered by the larger bus companies but are covered by local buses, minibuses and dolmuş (shared taxis).

Train : Is generally limited though improving. One major exception to this is the busy high-speed line connecting Istanbul, Eskişehir and Ankara. 

Turkish is the main language but many people speak  some  English. We didn’t find language to be a major obstacle to our travels around Turkey.

Turkey is home to one of the world’s great cuisines.

Turks like meat (lamb is the favorite) but you’ll also find many vegetarian options. Try  gozleme  – a flatbread stuffed with spinach, cheese, potatoes, or any other filling you like.  Pide  – a cross between pizza and traditional Turkish flatbread – can be found almost anywhere.  Meze  are the most typical Turkish appetisers: dishes of various salads, pickles and roasted vegetables (such as aubergines or peppers) drizzled in delicious sauces, as well as skewers of chicken, lamb and dried fruits. ‘ Dolmas ’ are grape leaves  stuffed with cooked rice and, occasionally, pieces of meat. Vegetarians and vegans should try out  Cig Kofte . Originally made of raw meat this delicious paste like substance is now made up of Bulgur wheat, tomatoes and spices and is rolled up in a wrap with crunchy salad.  Baklava  is for the sweet tooth (we fell in love with it in Turkey). Turkish breakfasts are huge. You’ll find eggs, bread, olives, salad, cheese, yoghurt, honey, fruit and more. 

Besides formal, sit down restaurants, Turkey has a lot of street food. So its delicious food doesn’t have to be expensive

The Bottom Line on Turkey

Turkey has tons to see with historic ruins, beautiful beaches and high mountains. It has excellent cuisine, great transportation links, and is inexpensive compared to many other global destinations. It is a lively and exciting country. Turkey is a great place to visit in 2023.

Original article: https://bbqboy.net/a-guide-on-traveling-to-turkey-in-2023/

Published March 2023

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Is Turkey Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• Turkey : Safety by City

Turkey is a country in the Mediterranean, situated in the Anatolian region of West Eurasia.

Turkey shares its borders with Bulgaria and Greece to the west, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia to the northeast, Syria, Iraq, and Iran to the southeast and flaunts the Black Sea coastline to the north, the Aegean Sea in the west and the Mediterranean Sea to the southwest.

You won’t go wrong going to Turkey: it offers a skyline you won’t easily forget, filled with domes and minarets of various sizes and heights, Roman ruins and contrast between a coastline stretched against a mountainous backdrop of Lycia as well as Pamphylia’s sunny beaches.

What tourists often emphasize as their favorite part of Turkish experience is the unique Middle Eastern cuisine, with baklavas as their number one dessert specialty.

And though Turkey’s beaches are its most famous feature, don’t forget that winter sports, especially skiing, are very popular in Turkey between December and March with temperatures at a constant below freezing point.

• Warnings & Dangers in Turkey

OVERALL RISK: HIGH

Turkey is safe to visit if you avoid some parts of it - namely those near the border with Syria. You should be aware that tourist hotspots, restaurants, shops, and public transportation are places where most thefts and pickpocketing occur, and that violent crime exists here, too.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Generally, transport in Turkey is rather safe and reliable, though if you're driving you should keep in mind that local drivers in the country are reckless and tend to ignore traffic rules and signs.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

As for pickpocketing, it is a recurring concern on the streets of Turkey, especially Istanbul, which is a popular tourist destination, so be careful and hold your bags tightly by your side. Places, where you should watch out for pickpockets, are Taksim Square, Sultanahmet, the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar in Istanbul.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

As for natural disasters, earthquakes have been known to hit Turkey, as well as severe droughts causing the lack of tap water in some parts of this country.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

The majority of violent crime happens near the Syrian borders, where kidnappings, muggings, and assaults have been reported. Terrorist groups here usually target those involved in humanitarian work or journalism.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

Terrorism is the greatest worry for tourists, as it's been active in Turkey in recent years. The last terrorist attack happened in January 2017. Most of these attacks are linked to Kurdish separatist terrorist activities in south-east Turkey.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

The common scam in Turkey is locals befriending tourists, taking them out for a drink, or dinner and then expecting the tourist to pay for it. Taxi drivers might try to trick you into paying more, giving you wrongful information about the price of the ride.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

If you're a woman traveling solo you should avoid walking alone after dark in this country. There have been reports of sexual assaults and verbal insults. These can happen even if you're accompanied by a group. Avoid isolated or poorly lit areas.

• So... How Safe Is Turkey Really?

Turkey is mostly safe when it comes to crime and its biggest risks stem from its political situation and terrorism risks.

However, that isn’t to say that violent, as well as petty crimes, don’t exist in Turkey, because they do, especially in Istanbul.

Snatching, pickpocketing, and mugging are the most common kinds of petty crime.

However, lately, with the newly developed camera network that supervises the streets of Istanbul 24/7, the mugging and purse snatching declined.

It is useful to know that once you leave the big cities, you’re in a mostly safe zone where tourists have had nothing but positive experiences.

Another advice that might come in handy in Turkey is that you should take every precaution while driving, as drivers in this country are mostly reckless and completely ignoring traffic signs, commonly causing traffic accidents.

Apart from this, transport is mostly safe in Turkey and works quite well.

The real danger in Turkey and the reason many tourists are a skeptic when it comes to safety in this country are the continuous and frequent terrorist attacks all around Turkey that have to do with the political situation in the state and most of them are linked to Kurdish separatist terrorist activities in south-east Turkey.

However, recently the situation has settled and the last attack happened in January 2017.

• How Does Turkey Compare?
• Useful Information

Some nationals do need a visa in order to enter Turkey, but they can be purchased online at http://www.evisa.gov.tr/ before traveling to Turkey. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months past the date of your arrival to Turkey. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

The Turkish lira is the official currency in Turkey. ATMs are widespread throughout the country and credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments.

The coastline bordering the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot and dry summers and mild, wet winters, while the coastline bordering the Black Sea has a temperate climate with warm winters and cool, wet summers. Generally, the best time to visit Turkey is during April, May, September, and October as they are pleasantly warm. The summer months from June through to September are very hot.

Istanbul Atatürk Airport is the main and busiest international airport serving Istanbul and the biggest airport in Turkey. It is located on the European side of the city, about 24 km west of the city center.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we advise getting travel insurance when traveling to Turkey, because it would cover not only medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Turkey Weather Averages (Temperatures)

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Turkey - Safety by City

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60 Reviews on Turkey

One thing, most of the terrorist attacks of 2016 and 2017 were linked to isis. It costed a lot of innocent lives. Kurdish terrorist organisation (pkk) is still a concern though everything started to settle down after Turkish armed forces TSK stormed the borders.

The Kurd terrorist group dose not pose a threat for tourists, it only targets the government

They actually said to target tourists to hurt the tourist revenue

Sadly, no. Especially in eastern Turkey, it targets many civilians. although the EU wants people to think that it’s a peaceful group they have mostly killed, civilians, unfortunately.

6 People just died, and 80+ injured by a street bomb November 14, 2022.

Feel free to travel to Turkey. Recently there isnt any terrorist attack from any parties. At recent past it happens at special days at crowded marching etc. If you are afaraid just avoid going city big city centers at special days.

The page is laughable

This page is so wrong its laughable. Overall risky is High? its probably safer than the united states or the UK. People in turkey are very nice. they also have great coffee, when it comes to women i i would agree with the page but mugging, pick pocketing, and terrorism are not issues at all. there hasten been a terrorist attack in turkey in over 100 years. and if there is one its extremely unlikely you’ll be a victim because they mainly attack the government and never attack tourist destinations. turkey has a lot of reasons to go there. you got ancient ruins from the ottoman empire, the abalone empire, the Assyrian empire, the Persian empire, its one of the most beautiful places on earth

Hi it’s a bit confusing saying there haven’t been terrorist attacks and then saying they mainly attack the government. Can I just clarify with my plans to drive all through north Turkey and into Armenia and then return through central Turkey to the southwest and up the coast back into Bulgaria. I’ll obviously steer very clear of the Syrian border. Is this a sensible and safe plan?

it is laughable.

I was hoping for a trip and even learning some Turkish, but the bombing yesterday on a busy road in Istanbul killing people shopping has put me off. I am American and just read America or Kurds are being blamed by Turkey. What? That was the nail in the coffin so to speak.

Im confused, Terrorisim or not ???

Unfair rating! Please read

As an American woman, I have traveled to Turkey many times due to my spouse being from there.

This rating is very unfair –ranking just barely above the safety of countries that are crime havens.

You literally never hear about rapes, murders, petty-crime. One good thing that comes from having a Despot as a leader, is people are frightened of breaking the law.

You couldn’t pay me to visit some places like Mexico.

Turkey has 80 million people and is the size of Texas – so terrorism is about as much of a treat there as it is in any European country.

It is a gorgeous country full of amazing history, food, and friendly people – modern and tolerant people.

Like most people visiting Turkey, I have only been to places like Istanbul, Antalya, Fethiye.

I don’t think when people are asking about vacationing in Turkey, they are visiting anywhere near the Syrian border (Turks don’t even visit those areas).

I’ve been out at night on my own and never worry about my safety, as I do here in the USA. I love my trips there!

Pancho the great ?

Whilst much of what you say about Turkey is quite true i’m afraid the ” Texas” bit is just not true ?neither as the borders stand now ! or even less so if the US were to return land it stole from Mexico during its struggle with “ Pancho the great “ .

“You literally never hear about rapes, murders, petty-crime.” girl you sure about that?? as a native, femicides and rapes are happening nearly EVERYDAY. and they dont even arrest criminals. think twice before spreading false information. you are just lucky bcuz someone didnot rape and dismember you and easily get away with it.

Why are you lying x? Turkey is safer then most countries in the world. It is not true that criminals dont get arrested. Criminals of rape and murder getting more punishment then European countries

no it is not.

you hear about rapes in turkey every f’ing day.

This was my dream trip. I watch a lot of Turkish films to learn language, but now this bombing of a busy pedestrian street in Istanbul has me changing my mind especially since I just read Turkey is whispering bomb was fault of Kurds or America. America? Seriously?

Mexico is Probably as Safe as Turkey for Tourists!

We’ll, just to reassure you about Mexico, I live and travel throughout this country. What is dangerous for a US government employee, vis a vis kidnappings etc, is not necessarily the case for tourists. Caution is needed everywhere in the world, including Brooklyn, New York! Thanks for weighing in on Turkey! It seems the most helpful sources are those that live in the country in question.

Get your facts right and stop blaming Turkey!!!!

Sure, whatever fits your agenda, “Travel Enthusiasts”. That Kurdish terrorist group doesn’t target the government, but us, the people!!! Go check some of the explosions that were undertaken by PKK in Turkey! After all, you were not there and you never had to lose one of your loved ones because of those sick, disgusting pigs. Shame on you!

Unlike this article terrorism attack risk is too low

This article is really so exaggrated.Turkey is absolutely same with U.S .All the countries have dangerous streets like Skid Row Street in Los Angeles.It doesn’t make dangerous whole country.By the way there is no risk about terrorism if you don’t visit east side of Turkey.But the other risks are accurate.You need to protect yourself from muggling especially if you are in a crowded city like Istanbul or Ankara but this risk is low in Izmir,Antalya and the other touristic cities.Izmir is one of the safest city in Turkey so I suggest you to visit there if you are so worried about safety BUT I need to say that visiting Istanbul and visiting Los Angeles are exactly the same in terms of security.

You can sleep on lara beach !

Southcoast. S east /east ankara ist izmir food 7. 10. 10 View 10. 10. 6 Seaswim 10. – 3 Safety luxury towns 10 10. 6 Comfort 7. 10. 10 Price. $$$ $ $$$$ Alanya antalya fethiye bodrum anamur mersin Antep adana urfa diyarbekir hatay bitlis tunceli erzurm agri van The only place i dont know is the north coast And not interested in. You will enjoy Turkey if you visit. You take a risk of a country have a blast more than the europe combine. You go to a country that requires no visa. So anybody can come in. You should visit Turkey while you are young, for honeymoon. Just don’t leave the wife after meeting russian german girls. Turkey is probably the best place to visit in the world , just not to live in it. Unless you are a footballer. 🙂 I dont agree with east is more gangerous. Ankara and istanbul is more valnurable.

you are so wrong

I will still go to turkey cause it is-sure it borders syria but it does not let any terorists go to turkey

Felt safer than mentioned here.

Felt safer than mentioned here, place is full of helpful people.

We drove 100 of miles from Istanbul, Cappadocia and Antalya.

No one tried to scam or anything, people are helpful and friendly.

as a tourism geographer, this review is full of lies, we are safe. of course everyone know that media is giving people stereotypes in all channels.

As a native

It is truly unfair. 45? So you’re saying we’re worse than many African countries. Make it 25 if that helps you push your agenda.

Well, Turkey is safe. If you research on YouTube you gotta see. Also Turkey is one of the most popular destinations in the world as i know. (6th 8th something like that) There is no terrorism

This article was so wrong ppl!

Thats a shame that showing a perfect country that bad. As a Italian person, I have been in Turkey a lot and what you mentioned in this article is so not true at all. I have been in Istanbul Ankara Izmır Antalya Fethıye Mersin Kapadoccia Samsun and Rıze. Istanbul and Ankara are mix cities. They are modern but that much religious in the same time. There are living locals from both sides in there. Izmır Antalya Fethıye and Mersin was just sea culture. I had so many Turkish friends in there and they are def pro-eu. Locals and tourists women were wearing so free and modern. Bars and clubs were also good as much as I didnt think. I even joined pride walk eith thousand of Turkish ppl years ago in Mersin and Izmır. So not expected at all! Kapadoccia was amazing, I cant even say something. Rıze and Samsun had a wheather and forest same as I saw in Ukraine but locals were religious in there. What I see is; South and west sea coast european and safe, capital and Istanbul are mix, north is religious.

Life expectancy in Turkey is higher than in USA as of 2021. I dunno what they are talking about XD

Life expectancy?

That’s because USA people eat sooo much unhealthy processed and fast food and die from diabetes, heart disease, cancers, dementia, and obesity, not because it’s any more or less dangerous. However, USA does not border Syria type dangers. It has its Issues but not that.

Atatürk Airport is out of operation for public aviation since April 6, 2019. All flights are transferred to Istanbul Airport, in Arnavutköy, except for military and freight. The new Istanbul Airport is serviced by Havaist bus services from various locations in Istanbul.

Not a place to visit.

I just got back from Turkey and that place is horrible. They find every way to exploit you once they know you are a tourist. Taxi drivers drive soo reckless they dont care. They cheat you asking for more money, the switch your cash if you are not watching lying you gave them less once the notes look almost the same. They rip you off. My overall experience with the taxi, people and driving was so horrible I am never going back or advice anyone to go.

How easy to critisize the whole country with a single nasty experience which is highly doubtful… Shame on you…

I couldn’t agree more Garvin Smith on every single fact you mentioned. I would never go back to Turkey:((

July 09, 2022

Absolutely true, had one of the worst experiences in Turkey, the Cab driven threaten u , cheat u and when we complained to the cops at the airport they did nothing about, it. Absolutely disastrous day with uber cabas well. Not safe at all, please avoid this nation if its in your travel list. Absolutely not worth it

How current is this article?

Why are there no dates of when this article was posted, or when comments were posted? How current is this article? Is this as of August 2021?

I was wondering the exact same thing! Would be nice to have some context here…

Come on. Turkey is one of the nicest and safest country to visit. Delicious food, nice people, and beautiful women. And there many ancient ruins to enjoy and wonderful sceneries. The USA or UK are much less safer for tourists.

I travelled through Turky for 1 month and I would have stayd longer if my visa had allowed it. Turkey is a great country with tje most hospitable people in the world. I travelled to Istanbul, Ankara, Konya and Trabzon. The further away you get from Istanbul the friendlier the people get, and the cheaper and better the food gets (I love Istanbul anyways). I have to say that I never felt unsafe or uneasy during my whole trip.

Where are u from?

Your title lists 9 cities in Turkey. 7 of them is in green (safety high), and two of them is orange (safety medium) where almost all of the countries people live (istanbul). As a little math and lets say you are right about the safety level of medium cities, the overall ratio must be at least 65, where you have chosen 45… Congratulations…

Turkey is safe and exciting

I have to say this: I think saying that Turkey has a HIGH risk is not fair, not fair at all. From personal experience and from the experience of friends and family who have visited multiple cities in Turkey, we can all say that Turkey deserves a much better rating. It’s currently rated with a 45 on the Safety Index and imho this should be closer to 70 or more. I will mention why I think this is the case below.

Safety wise, I feel Turkey has a lot of safe cities and just a few areas in a few cities that are rather dangerous. But you can’t give it such a low rating just because of that. This country is filled with friendly, welcoming people. These people are hospitable and they will even help you if you have trouble. Just to give you an example: my phone was stolen in a market and some seller there saw what had happened. He came right over, talked to me and encouraged me. I was sad that I had lost some important numbers. It honestly felt good to have someone to talk to at that moment. And like this person, there are so many in Turkey.

Most people that have visited this country have a good impression of it and its people. And there’s so, so much to see and do here. Their food is amazing, they like to haggle when trying to sell you something and I can understand that – it’s just their nature – and maybe some people are put off by this thing but not me. I see why they do it and sometimes, it’s fun to negotiate a bit.

I haven’t yet been to a city that I did not like. There’s always one or more things to like. Visited Alanya, Istanbul, Antalya, Bursa and Kusadasi. All great cities, with some pickpockets here and there (but which relatively big city doesn’t have them?). And I don’t see Turkey having a High terrorism risk. Maybe medium, yes. You never know what can happen of course, but we should just scare people away like that.

I visited Turkey before COVID 19 hit, and again at the end of Nov/Dec 2021… I traveled solo, I took precautions as I would in any other country. people are mostly friendly and helpful, except for some of the staff at The New Airport, especially the female attendants for the Queue, I had never felt so much aggression towards people, I thought this is not a good start. Remember the tourist pays your salary.

Apart from this, I enjoyed Istanbul very much and I will return again. The only other Negative I felt was the older Male Receptionist at the Hotel I stayed at I was afraid of because practically every time I used the lift he came in beside me stood so close in my personal space and stared me out. Needless to say, I moved to another Hotel.

There is currently war in Ukraine and the safety level is around 30. But normal day in Turkey is 45? How recent is this? There is no war, terrorism, or anything like that in here right now. I am Turkish but I lived in Italy, France and traveled most of the EU. I would say might not be as safe as Florence but bigger cities like İzmir, Ankara, and İstanbul are a lot safer than cities like Athens and Budapest, etc.

You might need to be careful about taxi drivers that might try to overcharge you or pickpocketers like in every big city, especially in İstanbul. But other than that there is nothing to ‘get scared’. -March 2022

Love Turkey ❤️

I am Australian born from Italian parents and I also think that this is wrong, I went for 5 weeks between Istanbul, Antalya, Kas, Fethiye and back to Istanbul and yes there are people who tried to get extra money here and there out of me but hey that is usually normal when you’re a tourist and don’t speak the language… try going to Rome and see what happens… it shouldn’t be but it is, so as tourists you need to lighten up a little and go with the flow of things.

I felt so safe, one time I had to walk for 30 mins through many dark back streets at night as I couldn’t get a taxi and it was raining on and off, and as much as I was worried it was perfectly safe with girls walking through the alleys also.

I never once felt at risk, and everyone is friendly. I went from Dec 6 to Jan 14 2022 and wished I could have stayed.

Am looking to move there for good this year if all goes to plan… had enough of Sydney Australia, born and raised here but this country isn’t what it used to be, slowly going to the dogs because of our fantastic government agendas and prison lockdowns for 2 years.

Rather be closer to Europe and enjoy culture and history…

Hi , I like your reviews, and I’m writing here because ,in few days I’m traveling to Turkey myself 65 woman plus a dog on my backseat of the car . So , of course I have some worriers about turkies people . I’ve been few times to Istambul . This time , just west coast , along the sea up to Antalia , along nice beaches , to stay a bit warmer than my country can offer. Hope nothing bad could happen to me there .

BEWARE OF THIS

I am a Turkish guy who lives in İstanbul. Kindly warn all of my women fellas, West of Turkey might be safer but mostly Turkey isn’t safe for SOLO WOMEN travelers, those creepy perverts won’t harras you if you are with a man. If you hear someone who tells you that women are very safe in Turkey, that person prabably working for a travelling agency or stu’id as hell.

I totally agree, and yet I am headed there in 9 days. My first time in Turkey was spent only in istanbul. I didn’t want to be among the tourists so I stayed in Istiklal, or so I thought (it was along Tarlabasi). Early morning, middle of the afternoon, early evening…NON-STOP being harassed, followed, hissed at – men just wouldn’t leave me alone. It was very uncomfortable BUT it is my favourite city on earth! I hope it has improved since, but I am sure it has not. Happy to hear Izmir is safe though, and Antalya as I will finally get to visit them on this next trip! Thx for your honest comments, especially a male’s perspective.

This is not objective point. I cant imagine how Italy can be more than 70 point but Turkey is 45. I have never heard something in Turkey. Which happen in İtaly or another European cities

Do NOT go on holiday to Turkey. Every dollar you leave turns into bullets against the Kurds, Syrians, Iraqis and Cypriots murdered by the Turkish state. Turkey has invaded and occupied half of Cyprus for 50 years, part of Syria and is now invading Iraq as well. Turkey is a criminal state that does exactly what Russia does but with the tolerance of the West. Turkey is the country with the most jailed journalists in the world

Revenge on tour guide Manager didn’t like

Our small tourist bus with 12 were arrested as manager of small motel decided one of us had stolen a blanket. Instead of asking us, he had police stop us as we drove off ferry to go to Gallipoli. It took about four hours to find someone had lent a blanket to one traveller who was cold the night before.

Be aware, this is an old article. In current day Turkey’s risk levels are mostly low eventough, it becomes medium sometimes.

The country Has a very good natural landscape and an in – order police and military combatants. But There have been many terrorist attacks, especially in the last few years, if anyone wanted to go there they had to make sure that their belongings are safe.

NOTE: Avoid Walking in the streets at midnight, several crime cases like kidnapping has been reported at the time.

Very distressing

Given how popular Turkey has become for golfing holidays I feel that British citizens need to be aware that, if your Husband dies suddenly in Turkey, as mine did 4 months ago, be prepared that Turkish authorities will impose Muslim culture and therefore rules upon the family. Widows are treated in the same way as divorcees and seen as a threat. I have been in battle with the British consulate to get my beloved husbands belongings back and they just will not let me have them. I am also struggling to obtain a cure of death and will have to wait several more months before I have more information. I cannot grieve for my husband properly and I am desperate for closure on a Turkey. Please wives and girlfriends, be aware of the agony your family will face if you lose your partner in Turkey.

Turkey is safe to visit

Turkey is the best place to visit and it is safe.

As A British Tourist , I would like to say that Turkey is Safe if you follow the rules and Guidelines. There is a risk of Terrorist attacks, but these are only used to Target the Government , Military People and Workers.

Turkey is fine, the government is the worty

I lived in Turkey for many years and my children were born there (Etiler) to their Turkish mother – best food ever, worst traffic ever, sort of insane people (screaming matches all the time) but I did love to go on the roof of my building when the first call to prayer echoed through the city, very, very dramatic. I was able to maintain my status as a hard drinking American but now I guess they are clamping down on that a bit? If you are a typically obnoxious American you will have problems but if you respect Turks they will reciprocate 100% – visit a place on the Bosporus for brunch, you won’t be disappointed- my wife was almost killed at the HSBC bomb site so there is risk

Loved it and will go again soon

I’m a British woman and I cannot say one bad word about Turkey. I think that people’s opinions are shaped by their experiences. I stopped in Istambul for three days en route to Zanzibar as I was flying with Turkish Airlines in 2019. I loved the architecture, I loved the food and people were friendly and helpful. Last year I spent two weeks in Calis Beach, which is next to Fethyie and I had a great time. I also visited Olu Deniz. I enjoyed scuba diving, kayaking and shopping at the Friday’s market in Fethyie. If you don’t drink to excess, don’t take drugs, don’t wander on your own at dark and don’t mix with the wrong crowd, you significantly minimise the risk of trouble anywhere in the world. I spent 9 weeks in South East Asia in 2017, 6 weeks in Mexico in 2018 and 4 weeks in Sri Lanka in 2018 and I never had any problem.

An absolute disastrous experience when I think of Turkey. Airport Taxis are thugs of A grade and very unsafe. Never recommending anybody to travel to Turkey for Tourism. Even if you complain to the cops of the taxi guys threatening you to pay more than the meter , they never bother . Nothing worth seeing here. please dont waste your time and mental peace

Solo woman in 2019. Safe BUT near Grand Bazaar some men loiter and I had one ask me (in a polite tone) sometime around 6pm if I can go home with him but he kept persisting and even walking with me as I walked away! Never experienced that before. He was small and I didnt feel scared but VERY uncomfortable. Also beware of hamams if you have asthma. I had a horrible episode the last day and was almost denied boarding my flight!

Why no mersn

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7 best Turkey holiday destinations – and when to travel to each one

Discover the transcontinental country’s vibrant cities, beach-strewn coast and geographical wonders, article bookmarked.

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A country steeped in history, Turkey combines lively cities, popular coastal towns, ancient historical sites and some of the most varied natural phenomena on Earth into one diverse nation.

From cosmopolitan Istanbul and the capital of Ankara to beloved beach resorts such as Bodrum, Alanya and Marmaris, the country’s main towns and cities attract millions of tourists a year to sample everything from culture to coastlines.

With an array of idyllic beaches, high-octane cities and incredible natural sites like the Pamukkalelake and the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, Turkey has bagged a place among the world’s most popular tourist destinations – it welcomed over 44 million visitors in 2022 the fourth highest number of any country in the world.

If you’re planning a trip to this varied and storied country, read on; below, we’ve rounded up a list of some of its premier destinations.

The most populous city in Europe is where the west meets Asia. Having been the capital of three different empires, the city has over 2,500 years of history and its main attractions include Byzantine structures such as the Hagia Sophia and the soaring minarets of the Ottoman-era Blue Mosque.

Other popular tourist spots include the Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern, but a simple visit to the Sultanahmet district will likely cover many of the ‘must-do’ things in the city. Those wanting to venture further afield will want to see the city’s famous Grand Bazaar, the Bosphorous Straight and neighbourhoods including Balat and Fener, where you can discover everything from foodie delights to local markets. For great views, try climbing the Galata Tower.

When to visit Istanbul

June and September are the most pleasant times to visit Istanbul. Average temperatures will hover around 22C, while you’ll avoid the peak summer crowds – perfect for enjoyable sightseeing and al fresco dining.

Where to stay

Located in the Taksim area of the city, Hotel The Public is set in a historic building – built in 1901 – on the well-known Istiklal Avenue. Interiors are contemporary but period features like exposed brick walls remain, creating an eclectic aesthetic right in the thick of the city.

Rooms available from {{#price}} {{price}} per night {{/price}} {{^price}} Check availability for dates and prices {{/price}}

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Hotel Amenities

Health & wellbeing.

A destination that is popular with those wanting a taste of the Turkish coast, Bodrum is another city with links to ancient times. Once known as Halicarnassus (and home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), Bodrum still houses some ancient ruins as well as its own famous medieval fortress, Bodrum Castle. Away from the sights, Bodrum has a vibrant and lively nightlife scene, with a mix of bars and clubs in the town, on the beaches and in the marina area.

However, most tourists flock here for access to some of Turkey’s best beaches. The surrounding region is a scenic mix of charming villages, rolling green hills and tranquil marinas, with dozens of fine golden sand-stretches lapped by turquoise water. Set back from the sea, several hotels and resorts offer a mix of luxury and more affordable stays.

When to visit Bodrum

Bodrum can be sweltering in the summer, with average daily highs hitting 35C in July and August. With average temperatures of 22C and very few crowds (apart from at half-term), October can be a good choice for a more affordable trip to the southern resort.

Kaya Palazzo is a large resort right on the Bodrum coast, just 15 minutes away from Bodrum itself. The accommodation features a private section of beach and a seasonal outdoor pool, while rooms are elegant and modern.

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• Europe’s best trips to try in your lifetime
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• Best European holiday destinations to visit by train from London in 2023

The chances are that a visit to the Cappadocia region will be unlike any other trip you’ve been on. Starting with nature, Cappadocia has a distinctive topography shaped by soft volcanic rock, volcanic activity and erosion that has caused various rock formations such as the so-called ‘fairy chimneys’ (rock spires seen in the image above), as well as the presence of a large range of caves throughout the region. Many of these caves now act as charming hotels, with rooms carved into the rock and restaurants that serve authentic local fare overlooking the hills.

While hiking, biking and visits to open-air museums are some of the popular activities in the area, the stand-out excursion is a hot air balloon trip, offering unforgettable views of mesmerising landscapes and orange sunsets. For a bit more exploration, the main towns in the region include Avanos, Goreme, Uchisar and Urgup.

When to visit Cappadocia

Daily temperatures at the height of summer can vary as much as 15 degrees between 32C and 17C, but with average temperatures around 24C, these months are a good choice for pleasant weather and hot air balloon watching.

For a sensational stay near Goreme, opt for Argos. Located in the hills near the centre of Uchisar, the hotel consists of a series of stone buildings offering accommodation options ranging from smooth stone rooms to large suites carved from tuff (a light rock local to the area) with private indoor pools.

Another popular destination on the southern coast, Antalya is the main city in the Antalya province. The province as a whole offers miles of coastline, ancient city ruins (including Perge, Aspendos, and Termessos) and a range of activities ( Belek is well-known for its range of golf courses), while the city itself is also an excellent choice for a holiday. Its charming Old Town (Kaleici) is a maze of narrow, paved streets, Ottoman-era architecture and ancient walls, while the marina and harbour areas offer sea views in a relaxed setting. There are many family-friendly sites too, including a zoo, aquarium and waterpark.

Near the city, the Duden and Kursunlu waterfalls are a dramatic site of natural beauty, while the Taurus Mountains offer opportunities for hiking. For soaking up the sun and taking a sip, Cirali, Konyaalti and Patara are some of the best beaches in the region.

When to visit Antalya

Antalya is another place where summer highs can reach over 35C, so July and August are best avoided. September generally receives little to no rain, and average temperatures will stay around a much more manageable 25C.

Tuvana Hotel is situated in the historical heart of Antalya, just 450m from Hadrian’s Gate. Traditional Ottoman decor and retained period features line the interiors, with several garden areas providing a great option for romantic drinks and dinner.

The third most populous city in Turkey may not be on most visitor itineraries, but this coastal hub has a rich history to add to its contemporary arts and cultural scene. There are nearby top-notch beaches in places like Cesme, Alacati, and Urla, while in Izmir itself you’ll find a 20th-century Clock Tower, the Agora and Kadifekale (an ancient castle). Modern living is showcased in the shops and restaurants of the lively Kordon Promenade or the city’s annual International Fair, and visitors can enjoy a blend of Turkish, Greek and Aegean cuisine.

When to visit Izmir

June and September carry average daily temperatures of 25C and 26C. Alternatively, for a better mix of cooler (but still pleasant) temperatures (think 21C on average) and far fewer crowds, visit in May or October.

Key Hotel is situated right on the city’s coastline, boasting spectacular sea views from its reception and restaurant plus some rooms.

Kas is another destination on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, lying between Bodrum and Antalya. A popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, it sits between the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, while the 320-mile Lycian Way hiking route runs near the town, providing excellent hiking opportunities and the chance to do a host of activities including kayaking, scuba diving and paragliding.

The town itself is a smaller settlement with whitewashed houses and russet-tiled roofs and cobbled streets, with a laid-back atmosphere both in the centre and on beaches such as Kucuk Cakil. Historical sites such as the ruins at Xanthos, Patara, and Myra, the Kas Amphitheater and the Sunken City of Kekova can all be found within the region.

When to visit Kas

Similar to Antalya, temperatures in Kos can get sweltering at the height of summer. Consider May and October to beat the crowds, with average highs that are perfect for some winter sun (think around 22C).

The Mandalina sits at the western tip of a peninsula just west of Kas (roughly 10 minutes away by car). The hotel has a pool with sweeping sea views and access to a private beach area, while the suites offer spacious and comfortable accommodation (some with balconies and private pools).

Oludeniz is one destination where nature is the focus. The main attraction is the Blue Lagoon, an idyllic bay where azure waters are surrounded by curved stretches of white sands backed by green hills. Oludeniz Beach is popular for swimming and water sports ranging from jet skiing to snorkelling, and there are plenty of other beaches in the nearby Kidrak National Park.

Away from the sea, Babadag Mountain has a range of hiking trails and is a popular paragliding spot, with panoramic views over the Blue Lagoon and other areas. The area around the village is a nature reserve, offering untouched landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere; for those who do eventually want to return to civilisation, the village itself has options for eating, drinking and nightlife, and the popular town of Fethiye is just a 30-minute drive away.

When to visit Oludeniz

June and September are the best options outside of school holidays, with average temperatures staying at 24C, providing optimal weather for relaxing by the sea.

Sitting just 50 metres from the beach, the Bronze Hotel has a large outdoor pool and terraced seating where buffet breakfasts are served every morning.

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Turkey Travel Guide 2023 | The top 10 Things to do in 2023

• April 3, 2024
• Table of Contents

BookOnBoard’s Turkey Guide 2023

1. kabak bay, 2. butterfly valley, 3. patara beach, 4. ‘princes’ island, 5. cappadocia, 6. hagia sophia, 7. mount nemrut , 8. grand bazaar, 9. sahaflar carsisi, 11. sumela monastery, 12. aladağlar national park, points to consider in turkey, how to reach the most popular places from the airport, what are the low-cost flights to turkey, if you are flying from the usa, if you are flying from india, airlines that fly to turkey, pamukkale thermal pools, goreme national park, cembarlitas hamami, nargile bars, what are the most popular places to eat in turkey, 1. muhtelif mekan, 2. community kitchen, what are the cheapest places to stay in turkey, related posts:.

“Turks as a race and nation are the most noble and the foremost of the nations. They are socially, religiously and ethically admirable for people who are unbiased.”- These words of Lamartine unequivocally portray the splendor of Turkey. Its alluring beaches, benevolent people and enchanting sights express the reason why people keep coming back to Turkey again and again. This land is a bewitching land, where colors of culture collide with each other and create a perfect canvas for the travellers, who love to reconnoiter enchanting realms of the world. The Turkey Travel Guide from BookOnBoard will help you decide the places to visit and things o do in Turkey.

Turkey, straddling Europe and Asia, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Among Turkey’s most popular attractions is Istanbul’s stunning Blue Mosque, famous for its six minarets and beautifully decorated interior. Also in Istanbul, the Topkapi Palace, a residence of the Ottoman Sultans, and the grand Suleymaniye Mosque are must-see landmarks. A visit to the Basilica Cistern, the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns beneath the city, provides a glimpse into the city’s historical water system.

Visitors from all across the globe, visit Turkey to witness the beautiful places that it has to offer. There are innumerable fun things to do is Turkey that will not only elevate your soul as a traveller but will allow you to experience the dreamlike beauty of this country. Turkey is not only home to some gorgeous cities, but the countryside of this country will also make you flabbergasted. Istanbul, Antalya, and Bodrum are some of the places that are most beautiful places in turkey. So, let us take an enthralling trip to Turkey

WHAT ARE THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN TURKEY?

Once your feet touch the land of Turkey, be sure that some captivating sights are waiting to stir your soul. All these sites are beguiling, bewildering and bewitching, which will bring your spirit to the state of Trance. Thus, here are the most desirable places to visit in Turkey:

You can consider Kabak Bay to be the perfect place if you are a hippy by heart. It will establish tranquility in your heart, when you will reach this place, away from the chaos of the main tourist spots. It is nestled in the forested mountains, amidst the vastness of nature. Fethiye is the closest hotspot of this place, and from there; you can book a cab to uncover every nook and cranny of this staggering beauty. It will not disappoint either if you love adventures. Here, you can go swimming, hiking and camping as well. Therefore, for all these reasons, it is one of the most beautiful places in Turkey.

Location – Uzunyurt

Best time to visit – Anytime between Junes to October. 

Charming Butterfly Valley will allow you to unleash your Bohemian side. Here, you can spend some alone time in the lap of nature, summoning your soul to it. The hikers and trekkers will find their paradise in this place. And the photographers will get tired by clicking pictures of this place, as each frame of this place as beautiful as heaven. Moreover, you spend some relaxed time by lazing around in a hammock, enjoying a campfire , relishing music and sipping your favourite drink. This why it is in our Turkey Travel Guide.

Best time to visit- Time between May to September is the best time to visit this beautiful place in Turkey.

Now, if you have particular fascinations about the beach, this is the place for you. Patara beach is the longest beach that resides in Turkey. In this beach , you will find numerous pocket-friendly beach cafes that will serve you with delectable food. You can also hire sunbeds and embrace the warmth of the sun. Well, if you are lucky enough, you can witness the sunset and the moonrise at the same time, which is an absolutely enchanting experience. And for this reason, it is in our Turkey Travel Guide. 

Location – near Patara city

Best time to visit– August is the best time to visit Patara.

It is one of the most famous traveller points, residing in the land of Istanbul. Silence is the best part that you will relish in this place. Instead of motorized vehicles, you can hire bicycles as well as horse-drawn carriages. And, if you are looking for  things to do in Turkey , this place is quite significant. There are umpteen things that you can relsh in ‘Princes’ Island like- renting a bicycle and explore the colourful sights of the place, going swimming, and hiking to the Aya Yorgi Church. 

Location – Istanbul

Best time to visit– April-May and September-October are the best times to visit the ‘Princes’ Island.

Cappadocia is hands down one of the  best places to visit in Turkey , So we have included it in our Turkey Travel Guide. Well, this place is crafted out of a volcanic eruption. Moreover, you can consider this place if you are looking for  things to do in Turkey . You can travel around this place by taking a horse ride, and you can also take an air balloon ride. Most significantly, if you ever visit this place, do not miss to sip some delicious Turkish tea. The phantasmagoric landscape of this place will take your breath away. 

Location – Central Anatolia

Best time to visit– The end of April to June, and from September to October are the best time to witness the beauty of Cappadocia.

If you are planning to land on Istanbul during your Turkey trip, do not miss the Hagia Sophia. The architecture of Hagia Sophia will take you on a time trip. Emperor Justinian constituted this in the 6th century. But after nine hundred years, this church was converted into a mosque. Once you enter this mosque, you will feel like someone injected dope inside you. You will go into a psychedelic trip after you witness ”this one of it’s kind” art and architecture.  

Opening hours- 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM in the summers and 09:00 AM to 03:00 PM in the winters. 

Your trip to Turkey will be considered incomplete if you fail to visit mount Nemrut. If history is something that captivates you, this is the perfect place. You can consider this place as the 8th wonder of the world, as the huge statues of King Antiochus I Theos of Commagene two lions, Persian gods, and two eagles and numerous Greeks are residing here. Apart from all these, it is also a brilliant trekking spot of Turkey, where the adventurers can calm down their souls of adventure.

Location – Near Adıyaman 

Best time to visit- The best to visit mount Adıyaman is the time between May and September when the summits are free of snow. Turkey Travel Guide says you should go then.

If you consider bargaining as an art, you can apply this art at Grand Bazaar. It is a market full of vibrant colours, and they sell numerous things to the customers. Jewellery, rugs, souvenirs, teas, and clothes are the most remarkable things that they sell in this bazaar. After entering the bazar, you will get a chance to witness the hauntingly beautiful and daily-life chaos of Istanbul . Again, we are reminding you that, if you want to buy something from Grand Bazar, DO NOT FORGET to bargain.

Best time in the day to visit – If you want to strike a good deal, it will be best for you if you can visit the market between 11:00 AM to 13:00 PM. 

Amongst the other tourist spots, Sahaflar Carsisi is a bit underrated. It is not like the usual tourist spots. But, if you are a book worm, this place will quench your thirst. It is one of the ancient markets in Istanbul, where you will get a fantastic collection of books. The books here are second-hand books, and for that reason, you will get the books at reasonable prices. But before entering this market, you have to make sure that you are armed with the art of bargaining. Another thing that you have to be aware of, are the fake items. Besides, learn some common Turkish words, which will help you during the time of bargaining,

Time to visit – It is open every day except Sundays.

Now, it is the time to add some mystery and horror to the itinerary. Well, Ani is a ghostly city of Turkey, which will mystify you and will chill your spines at the same time. It is said that it is a forgotten and abused metropolis, which is abandoned for the centuries. Turkey Travel Guide . Once your shadow touches this city, you will be surrounded by an air of uneasiness. But, the astonishingly beautiful churches and the beauty of the surroundings will make your heart skip a bit. The spellbinding landscapes will elevate the feeling of your enchantment. In the year 2016, UNESCO declared the ruins of Ani as a heritage site. 

Location – Armenian Highlands

Best time to visit – June is the best time to enjoy the beauty of Ani.

Sumela Monastery is amongst the oldest monasteries in the world. The construction of Sumela Monastery dated back in the 4th century. The lonely and the tranquil set up of the monastery attract a massive number of tourists. The cliff of the Zigana Mountains is the home of this monastery, and it is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. If you ever visit this monastery, a blanket of bliss will surround you. Thus, whenever you are travelling across Turkey Travel Guide, don’t miss the Sumela monastery.

Location – It is located outside the city of Trabzon.

Opening hours – The opening hour of the monastery is 9am to 7pm. 

Entry fee– The entry fee for this monastery is 15 Turkish Lira

In other words, Aladağlar National Park is also known as the Alps of Turkey . It is expanded over 55065 hectares of land, and it was established as a national park in the year of 1995. This place of Turkey is ideal for hiking, trekking, and numerous other mountaineering sports. A lot of local tourists visit this fantastic place to enjoy the vibes of the mountain . The entire region is covered with rocks, and the colours of those rocks are quite different from the stones of our daily life cities. 

Location – Yahyalı in Kayseri Province

Best time to visit – The time between February to April and between Octobers to December, are the best times to visit the Aladağlar National Park.

WHAT ARE THE THINGS THAT YOU MUST KNOW BEFORE TRAVELLING TO TURKEY?

Turkey is a beautiful country that is rich in culture and people there are amazingly hospitable. To be more precise, the country has a poetic bliss, which you will find in very few countries. Its architecture will narrate you the historical stories, and the centuries that this country has witnessed. Turkey Travel Guide. However, if you want to cherish this country to its fullest; there are specific things that you have to consider. 

• If you are a vegetarian, you ‘don’t have to worry as the Turkish cuisines are vegetarian-friendly.
• You can use credit cards in the bigger cities, but if you are travelling to smaller cities, it will be best for you if you carry cash with yourself. 
• You will find that street dogs and cats are roaming everywhere, and they are the part of the scenery. And all of them are quite friendly.
• Avoid drinking the tap water. The grade of the water depends on the region, but it will best for you to avoid drinking those. They are suitable for cleaning and cooking but avoid drinking them.
• We have already told you that Turkish people are affectionate and to greet them; you must kiss them on both of their cheeks. 
• You have to careful while crossing the streets as the traffic of Turkey is quite notorious. As a pedestrian, it will be hard for you to pass the roads smoothly, so be careful while crossing the streets.
• Istanbul is not the exclusive place to visit in Turkey. While crafting your itinerary, look further than Istanbul as it has some amazing places in its palate.
• Whenever you will travel across Turkey, be ready to drink several cups of teas. Tea is considered as the sign of hospitality in Turkey.
• There is a zero-tolerance policy regarding drugs in Turkey. Smoking and drinking alcohol is accepted here, but there is no leniency regarding drugs. 
• If you have a plan to visit Istanbul only, maybe you will not come across Alla Turca toilets. But, if you are setting off beyond the city, you will find these old-school traditional toilets. They are quite hygienic and clean. 

Turkey Best Time to Visit

Turkey is extremely hot during the summers and extremely cold during the winter. So, autumn and spring are the best seasons to extract the essence of Turkey. Therefore, it will be best for you if you visit Turkey from April to May, or from September to Mid-November. Our Turkey Travel Guide explains this briefly.

From Istanbul, it will take almost an hour to reach the stunning Hagia Sophia. There are myriad ways by which you can head to Hagia Sophia from the Ataturk airport. You can visit them by bus, by metro, by taxi or directly by driving. You can also set off to other places in Turkey with this means of transport.

There are frequent, low-cost flights to Turkey. Let us have a look at those:

• Turkish Airlines
• Pegasus Airlines
• British Airlines
• Air India Airlines
• Gulf Airlines
• Oman Airlines
• Emirates Airlines

Ataturk airport receives all the flights from all around the world. There is a possibility that you will save a considerable amount of money if you can book them in advance. Also, you have to do some researches if you want to find the best low-cost flights to Turkey. Bookonboard’s Turkey Travel Guide will mention some of the famous airlines that fly to Turkey.

• Lufthansa flights
• Qatar Airways
• Etihad Airways
• Gulf Air Flights

THINGS TO DO IN TURKEY

Turkey is a country that has a surreal commixture of European culture as well as Asian culture. It is a place where you can unleash your spirit so that you can explore the land open-mindedly. Therefore, are you looking for some  fun things to do in Turkey ? Here is the list

If you want to enjoy the natural Saunas, Pamukkale Thermal pools are the place. The splendid beauty of the sight will soothe your eyes, and the natural Saunas will calm your senses. All these pools are filled with therapeutic water, and they are capable of healing diseases.

If exploring is your Forte, Goreme National park is the place of your desire. The natural limestone formations will mesmerize, and the enchanting landscapes will take you to the pages of fairytale. UNESCO has declared Goreme National park as the heritage site. 

Now, this place will make you witness one of the cultural signatures of Turkey. Here, you can drench your soul with a relaxing Turkish bath. This age-old bathhouse was tailored in the year 1584. Be sure of the fact that it is going to be a lifetime experience of yours. Hence, it is one of the  fun things to do in Turkey.

If you ‘don’t visit the nargile bars in Turkey, your Turkey trip will be incomplete. Here you have to try some Turkish tobacco which reflects the wealthy and rich culture of the country. Once you take a puff of this tobacco from the wooden bottles and beautiful glasses, you will feel like a Sultan. 

Turkey serves some palatable foods, which will make your taste buds dancing. From their famous Menemen to Adana Kebap, Turkey is a home to come amazingly delectable foods. The best part about Turkey is that the food here is, and they have some of the sophisticated restaurants in their palate. The  most popular places to eat in Turkey  that will pamper your tastebuds are:

This place is a paradise for vegans. One of the most enthralling parts about this place is that they change their menu every day, which attracts numerous vegans here. Their regular items consist of vegan desserts, vegan soups and vegan balls.

Another place where the vegans can please their tongues is the community kitchen. Some of the palatable vegan foods that you will find here are iskendar and balls, vegan lasagna, Vegan burgers, Bosnian cevapi Kofte and many more. Sunday is considered as the wild mushroom day.

FOR COUPLES

If you are planning a romantic dinner in the heart of Istanbul, you can come to Nicole. The Ambiance of Nicole is amazingly romantic. Apart from flinging the romantic fire, the food of this place will also calm down your foodie soul. This place is best known for its new culinary ideas and utilization of the seasonal ingredients.

This place will allow you to enjoy the romantic dinner in Istanbul style. Well, nothing can be better than eating some brilliant food while cherishing the vibrant sunset with your loved one. You can experience all these things at once if you head towards Firuze.

So, these are some of the  most popular places to eat in Turkey .

If you are looking for the  cheapest places to stay in Turkey  that will not create any hole in your pocket and provide you with exceptional services, maybe we can help you. There are innumerable  affordable hotels in Turkey  that will be easy for your pocket. So, here is the list of some of them.

• Sunrise hotel- Fatih, Istanbul
• Mercure Istanbul Topkapi- Zeytinburnu, Istanbul
• Albatros Hagia Sophia Hotel- Fatih, Istanbul
• Ramada Plaza Istanbul City Center- Halaskargazi Street

SO, THESE ARE SOME OF THE  AFFORDABLE HOTELS IN TURKEY .

From the Byzantine era, the Kariye Museum stands out with its remarkable mosaics and frescoes. And don’t miss the Galata Tower for a panoramic view of Istanbul. For a taste of Ottoman opulence, the Dolmabahce Palace is another top tourist attraction, offering a mix of European and Ottoman architectural styles.

Beyond Istanbul, the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is located near the ancient city of Ephesus. The Library of Celsus in Ephesus, an ancient Roman building, is also a significant landmark, known for its majestic façade. Ephesus Celsus Library, with its ornate details, is a sight to behold.

The Mount Nemrut’s statues, built by the Kingdom of Commagene, is another intriguing historical site. In Antalya, the Antalya Muzesi holds a vast collection of archaeological artifacts, while Hadrian’s Gate, a triumphal arch, is a reminder of Roman influence.

The Bodrum Castle and Beach are popular destinations along the Aegean Sea. The Bodrum Castle’s Museum of Underwater Archaeology offers unique insights into ancient shipwrecks. For hikers, the Lycian Way presents a mix of scenic landscapes, ancient ruins, and Turkish villages.

In the region of Cappadocia, Göreme is famous for its rock formations, ancient cave churches, and hot air balloon rides. Further south in Gaziantep, the Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum houses one of the world’s most extensive collections of Roman mosaics.

To wind down after a day of sightseeing, head to the historic Cemberlitas Hamami for a traditional Turkish bath. Finally, no trip to Turkey is complete without a leisurely stroll in Istanbul’s Gulhane Park. With its vast history and diverse landscapes, Turkey offers a wealth of experiences for every traveler.

Turkey is a country that is blessed with both natural as well as artificial beauties. Their eclectic culture and the echoes of history and architecture make this place unimaginably appealing. Therefore, visit Turkey and enjoy one of the best trips of your life.

And if you want to conduct a tour in Turkey that is hassle-free, memorable as well as comfortable, you can get in touch with the BookonBoard. From flights to hotel rooms, they will take care of everything. This website is specially crafted for the travellers who want to enjoy their trips without worrying about their pockets. They will find out the low-cost flights to Turkey as well as hotel rooms that will deliver you with the most exceptional services. To be more precise, they have the best  Turkey Holiday packages . 

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Unveiling the Magic of a Turkey Visit: Your Ultimate Guide

Why turkey is a must-visit destination.

Turkey is not just a country; it’s a tapestry of history, culture, and natural wonders. Straddling two continents, Turkey offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences that captivate every traveler. Whether you’re an adventurer, a history buff, or a foodie, a Turkey visit promises an unforgettable experience.

The Allure of Istanbul

Istanbul, the city that bridges Asia and Europe, is a melting pot of cultures. The city’s skyline is a juxtaposition of ancient mosques and modern skyscrapers. From the Hagia Sophia to the bustling streets of Taksim Square, Istanbul offers something for everyone.

Cappadocia’s Mystique

Cappadocia is like a scene from a fairy tale. The landscape is dotted with unique rock formations and underground cities. But the real magic happens at dawn when hundreds of hot air balloons fill the sky, offering a bird’s-eye view of this surreal landscape.

Pamukkale’s Natural Wonders

Known as the “Cotton Castle,” Pamukkale is a natural wonder that has to be seen to be believed. The terraced hot springs have been a spa destination since Roman times, and the ancient city of Hierapolis built atop the springs adds a historical layer to your visit.

Ephesus: A Walk Through History

Ephesus is a living museum. The Library of Celsus, the Great Theater, and the Temple of Artemis transport you back to the grandeur of ancient Roman and Greek civilizations.

Turkish Cuisine

Turkish food is a feast for the senses. From the succulent kebabs to the sweet baklava, Turkish cuisine offers a variety of flavors that cater to all taste buds.

Turkish Culture and Traditions

Turkish people are known for their hospitality and strong sense of community. Family gatherings, traditional music, and festivals like Eid and the Whirling Dervishes are integral parts of Turkish culture.

Shopping in Turkey

Whether it’s the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul or the local markets in smaller towns, shopping in Turkey is an experience in itself. From spices to handwoven carpets, you’ll find a plethora of unique items to take home.

Turkish Beaches

Turkey’s coastline is a paradise for beach lovers. From the luxury resorts in Antalya to the tranquil beaches in Bodrum, the Turkish Riviera offers a coastal retreat for every budget.

Adventure Activities

For adrenaline junkies, Turkey offers a range of activities like paragliding in Oludeniz and scuba diving in Kas. The country’s diverse landscape makes it a perfect destination for outdoor adventures.

Turkey’s Lesser-Known Gems

Beyond the popular tourist spots, Turkey is home to hidden gems like Safranbolu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Lake Van, the largest lake in Turkey.

Turkish Festivals

Turkey is a country of celebrations. Whether it’s the religious festival of Eid or the cultural spectacle of the Whirling Dervishes, Turkish festivals are a treat for the senses.

The Turkish Riviera

Known as the “Turkish Riviera,” the southwestern coast of Turkey is a haven for luxury travelers. With high-end resorts and yacht tours, this is the place to experience the lavish side of Turkey.

Travel Tips for Turkey

Before embarking on your Turkey visit, it’s essential to know about visa requirements, safety tips, and cultural norms to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.

Best Time to Visit Turkey

Turkey is a year-round destination, but knowing the best times to visit can enhance your experience. Whether you want to explore the beaches or ski in the mountains, there’s a perfect season for every activity.

Budgeting Your Turkey Visit

Turkey offers a range of options for every budget. From luxury resorts to budget hostels, you can tailor your trip to suit your financial needs.

Public Transport in Turkey

Navigating Turkey is easy with its well-connected public transport system. Whether it’s the metro in Istanbul or the local dolmus (shared taxis), you’ll find a convenient way to get around.

Nightlife in Turkey

From rooftop bars in Istanbul to beach parties in Bodrum, Turkey offers a vibrant nightlife that caters to all preferences.

Turkish Art and Music

Turkey has a rich tradition of art and music, from Ottoman miniatures to modern art galleries. The country’s artistic heritage is a reflection of its diverse cultural influences.

Turkish Coffee Culture

In Turkey, coffee is more than just a beverage; it’s a social ritual. Learn how to enjoy this strong brew the Turkish way.

Accommodation Options

Turkey offers a variety of accommodation options, from boutique hotels in Istanbul to cave hotels in Cappadocia.

Packing for Turkey

Knowing what to pack can make your Turkey visit more enjoyable. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, this guide will help you prepare.

Learning Basic Turkish Phrases

While many people in Turkey speak English, learning a few basic phrases can go a long way in making your trip more enjoyable.

Which company should I choose for a tour in Turkey?

Choosing One Nation Travel offers the advantage of years of expertise in the tourism industry, as well as a strong presence in both Princeton, NJ, and Istanbul, Turkey. Take advantage of the best deals available through our online booking platform and explore popular destinations in Turkey, including Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ankara , Pamukkale, Ephesus, Antalya, Fethiye, and more.

Turkey Visit: FAQs

What is the best time to visit turkey.

The best time to visit Turkey depends on what you want to do. Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are generally the most pleasant times to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.

Do I Need a Visa for Turkey?

Most travelers will need a visa to enter Turkey. However, the requirements can vary depending on your nationality. It’s best to check the official government website or consult your local embassy for the most current information.

Is Turkey Safe for Tourists?

Turkey is generally safe for tourists, but like any other country, it’s essential to take standard precautions. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places, and keep an eye on your belongings.

What Should I Pack for Turkey?

Packing for Turkey should include a mix of casual and conservative clothing, as you’ll likely be visiting religious sites. Don’t forget a good pair of walking shoes for sightseeing and a swimsuit for the beaches.

Can I Use Credit Cards in Turkey?

Credit cards are widely accepted in Turkey, especially in larger cities like Istanbul and tourist areas. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or rural areas.

What is the Main Language Spoken in Turkey?

The main language spoken in Turkey is Turkish. English is widely understood in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Turkish phrases can enhance your experience.

Conclusion: Why Turkey Should Be on Your Bucket List

A Turkey visit offers a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, cuisine, or adventure, Turkey has something for everyone. Its unique blend of Eastern and Western influences makes it a fascinating country to explore, and its warm hospitality will make you want to return time and again. So go ahead, and add Turkey to your travel bucket list; it’s a decision you won’t regret.

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Is Turkey Expensive to Visit? Budget Breakdown and Tips (2023)

On our trip to Turkey in 2023, we fulfilled several of our bucket list experiences including riding the hot air balloon in Cappadocia , exploring the underground cities , as well as sailing for 4 days on the beautiful Turkish Coast. Our experience was incredibly memorable but a question we get asked often is “ Is Turkey expensive to visit in 2023? “. 

We felt it would be important to share our experience with you since many blogs we found online do not seem to reflect the recent changes in pricing.

In this post, we’ll go over our experience in Turkey, how much we spent, a breakdown of the costs per category, and our money-saving tips. Finally, we will also highlight our most expensive activities and let you know if they were worth it .

Let’s jump right in!

Is Turkey expensive to visit?

So is Turkey expensive to visit? Overall, we would say it is considered a moderate-budget destination, about on par with typical European destinations like Italy and Portugal.

However, setting the right expectations is key ! We were surprised by the costs because it was always advertised as a very cheap destination.

Before traveling to Turkey, we read up on several other blogs and also spoke to many fellow travelers who have visited Turkey in the past and the consensus seemed to be that it is very affordable to visit. We were told that for 10$ per person, they ate huge meals with main courses and appetizers. 

They also took the infamous Cappadocia Hot air balloons for around 100$ per person. Other blogs also seem to reflect this.

However, due to the 2023 financial crisis in Turkey and the incredible decline of the Lira, visiting Turkey has become far more expensive than before . We were definitely surprised by the inflated costs during our 16 days traveling through the country. 

Instead of 10$ per person per meal, we spent between 20-50$ per person . The hot air balloon price we paid was 3x higher . But we will get to that in a bit.

Travel budget will always depend on your style of travel so below, we will explain how we chose to travel through the country and then provide you with a breakdown of our costs.

Our travel style and Turkey experiences

We call ourselves “smart experience-focused budget travelers” .

We are budget-conscious but will always prioritize trying out experiences that are unique to that country. Our accommodations tend to be between budget to mid-range and we seek out local non-touristic restaurants for our meals. We also minimize booking pre-organized tours as we love exploring on our own, which also tends to reduce the cost of travel.

In Turkey, we visited Cappadocia , Kas on the Southern Coast , blue cruising the islands, and then Istanbul for 3 days .

In Cappadocia , we did the hot air balloon ride, stayed at a cave hotel, explored the open-air museums on our own with our rented car, and did some hiking.

In Kas , we visited the small town and the surrounding archeological ruins and then enjoyed the beautiful turquoise coast.

The Blue Cruise was a 4 day 3 night “sailing” trip around the 12 islands. This was an organized group expedition.

Finally in Istanbul, we did a food tour and then explored the free museums on our own. There are several paid museums but we skipped them.

If you are curious about our main activities and if they were worth the cost, check out below. We have a section near the bottom where we share with you what the most expensive activities we did in Turkey were and if we found them worth it .

This post is part of our series about Turkey . If you want to learn more about Turkey, planning your trip, and some of the best experiences there, check out the guides below: Do You Tip In Turkey: Tipping Etiquette For Every Situation 3 Days in Istanbul: Perfect Itinerary for First-time Visitors (2024) Is Cappadocia Worth it? 10 Best Reasons & Things To Do 2024 8 Things To Know Before Taking A Food Tour In Istanbul 2023 27 BEST Things To Do In Kas For A Unique Experience 2023 Is Uber in Istanbul? Guide To Getting Around The City 2023

Cost of traveling 16 days in Turkey (2023)

💡 Note: all prices will be listed in my home currency, Canadian dollars. I will write it as $. I may also display some prices in euros (€) as it is the second most accepted currency in Turkey, after the Lira. The reason why I don’t list the prices in Liras is due to the major and continued devaluation of their currency, which means the value listed one day will be significantly different than that a week later.

The total amount we spent during our 16 days in Turkey , excluding our international flight, was 6,321$ for two people .

This comes out to 395$ per day, per couple , or just under 200$ per day per person .

Of all the expenses, the most money was spent on Activities , which accounted for 51% (3,207$) , followed by Transportation at 17% (1,100$) , and accommodation at 15% (974.87$) . 

This overall reflects our travel style since we prioritize the experiences in the country.

Below we will break down the costs per category and give you a general idea of what items were in each. We will also share our experiences and views for each category.

Budget breakdown Turkey

Check out below for our budget broken down into the main categories of spending. We also highlight some common costs in each category that you should expect. This spending was during our 16 days in Turkey.

Activities accounted for 51% of our total expenses, totalling 3,207$ for the two of us. If we break it down, then it comes out to about 200$ per couple per day. This may sound high but a big portion of it was due to the 4 day blue cruise experience .

It cost us 500€ per person, totalling 1510$ for the two of us, but it was an amazing experience and we would highly recommend it. If you choose not to do this activity, then your activity spending will be significantly less.

Here are the top activities that we spent on , which will give you an estimate of their costs ( all prices are listed as for two people, $ is CAD ):

• Blue Cruise 4 days 3 nights (all inclusive) = 1000€ (1510$)
• Cappadocia Hot Air balloon flight = 480€ (725$)
• Cappadocia Museum pass (giving you access to most museums in Cappadocia for 3 days) = 138$
• Hammam bath and massage = 240€ (362$)
• Food Tour in Istanbul = 263$
• Entrance into Uchisar Castle (one of the historical sites) = 16$
• Parking at Goreme Open-air Museum = 1.75$
• Entrance into Myra Ruins (archeological ruins in South of Turkey) = 28$

Overall, entrance to museums was around 10-45$. The entrances in the Southern part of Turkey tended to be on the lower end and those of Istanbul were on the higher end. Cappadocia museums were priced in the middle of the range.

We bought the Cappadocia museum pass and ended up visiting 5 of the sites which makes up for the value of the pass but not by much. However, it does allow you to skip the ticketing office lineups at each site, which saves you time and hassle.

We felt the prices of activities and entrances in Turkey were relatively high , even compared to Europe. In recent years, Turkey has been sharply increasing their prices, which I have noticed by comparing the costs of specific activities from fellow travelers in the previous months/years.

For example , just 6 months before we went to Turkey (June 2023), the price of the Cappadocia Museum pass was about 1/3 of what we paid. Approximately 1-2 years before we were in Turkey, the price of the hot air balloon was 122$ per person whereas we paid 360$ per person.

Most of the primary activities were purchased way in advance to ensure preferential pricing. This was particularly important for the hot air balloon which we will explain in our Tips section .

Transportation

Transportation accounted for the second largest expense during our trip at 17% (1,100$) . We did not include the international flight in this calculation as it varies significantly.

For Transportation, these were our biggest costs (priced for two people in Canadian $):

• Car rental (including insurance) for 5 days in Cappadocia = 227$ (45$/day)
• Car rental (including insurance) for 3 days in Antalya = 308$ (this cost more because it was a one-way rental, pickup from Antalya and drop off in Fethiye)
• Flight from Kayseri to Antalya = 110$
• Flight from Dalaman to Istanbul = 145$
• Private transport from Istanbul airport to downtown one way = 35€ (52$)

We used Discovercars to rent our vehicle in Turkey. The service was excellent and the process was a breeze. We also loved the fact that you can add on full coverage insurance right away at a very reasonable price.

👉 🚙 To book your rental car with DiscoverCars, click here !

Accommodation

Accommodation was the third largest expense during our trip at 15% (974$) . Your accommodation expenditure will highly vary based on your personal standards. We generally go for budget to mid-range accommodations at a good price.

However, in Cappadocia, their cave hotels with the rooftop terrace truly add to the experience so we did splurge a bit on the accommodation there.

Check below for the breakdown of our main accommodation expenses (priced for two people in Canadian $):

• Caftan Cave Suites 4 nights = 374$ (93$/day)
• Caftan Cave Suites 1 additional night = 85$
• Kas Livia Hotel (Southern Turkey coast) 3 nights = 216$ (72$/night)
• AirBnB in Beyoglu Istanbul 3 nights = 248$ (82$/night)

Therefore the average cost of accommodation in Turkey was 83$ for a mid-range . The fancier cave hotels in Cappadocia were priced between 200-300$/night. If you go for budget hotel without the cave accommodation and no rooftop terrace, then you can find one for around 50$/night.

We consider this moderate budget, and a bit cheaper than in Europe.

Food was the fourth largest expense during our trip at 12% (768$) . Overall food there is considered moderate budget . These are a few average prices that you should expect (priced for two people in Canadian $):

• Breakfast at hotel = 20$
• Simple Kebab restaurant = 41$
• Cup of fresh watermelon juice = 4$
• Cup of fresh pomegranate juice = 6.5$
• Seten restaurant (nicer restaurant in Cappadocia) = 105$
• Simple restaurant in Avanos (less touristic town) = 32$
• Mid-range restaurant in Kas = 72$
• Mid-range restaurant in Istanbul = 70$
• Cup of coffee = 3$
• Glass of wine = 18$
• Cocktail = 20$

This list will give you a good idea of the average spending on food. As per our introduction, you can see how our spending was significantly different than what other fellow travelers shared with me when they went 1-2 years prior.

Our average meal was between 40-80$ for two people , mostly without alcohol. We were also fairly conservative with our meals and ordered one main course each and sometimes one small appetizer to share, no dessert. 

We were surprised by how expensive alcohol was in Turkey, which we will explain further below.

The next surprise for us was the alcohol prices . Alcohol in Turkey is heavily taxed, which is why the prices are so high . Turkey is also a mostly Muslim country so drinking alcohol is not as supported.

On average, a glass of wine at a restaurant costs between 15-18$ . I would say that it is worth trying out some of their local wines as we found them quite delicious!

For an alcoholic cocktail , the average cost is between 18-22$ . We found this to be quite high as drinks in Canada are around 13$.

To enter Turkey, most countries will require a visa. The visa is valid for 90 days.

Our Visa as a Canadian cost 123 USD for the two of us (166$).

To check the price of a Turkey visa from your country, as well as applying for the Visa , check out the official Visa page . (Make sure to get it from the official page as there are several third-party sites that charge you a premium)

8 Tips for saving money in Turkey

After traveling through Turkey, we have gathered some very helpful tips to help you save money! These tips not only increase your chance of having the optimal experience, but also cut down on your costs!

📲 Easy cellular data in Guatemala: Airalo

Regardless of what activity you will be doing, you will definitely need cellular internet in Guatemala. We used Airalo and it was both affordable and reliable! Click here for Airalo !

1. Book the hot air balloon far in advance

This is the first and most important tip! In general, booking early saves you money but this is particularly the case for the hot air balloons. Not only will it save you money, but if you book too last minute, you might even miss out on the opportunity to experience it.

Although there are many companies that offer hot air balloon rides, due to its popularity, it tends to sell out. This is exacerbated by the fact that if the weather prevents the flight one day, then all the passengers of that day will be pushed to the available slots of the next day. This ends up creating further saturation and a waitlist of bookings.

We booked our hot air balloon flight about 7 months in advance and paid around 220€ per person with Turquaz balloons , which we would highly recommend . Out of curiosity, I rechecked the prices around 2 months before our departure and was shocked to see that they were now charging 320€ for the same flight. I also noticed that there was no availability for many of the dates.

📌 So it is very important to book EARLY ! Check out our recommended Hot Air Balloon company Turquaz Balloons !

2. Book your hotel in Cappadocia far in advance

The same principle of booking far in advance applies to the Cappadocia hotels. One of the amazing experiences in the region is staying at a cave hotel , as well as having the rooftop terrace to witness the balloons . We have all seen those epic Instagram photos with a couple sitting on Turkish rugs and pillows with the backdrop of hundreds of hot air balloons. If you want to experience that as well, then you have to book early!

The hotels that have the nicest views of rooftop terraces tend to book up early! Although there are countless hotels in Cappadocia, I would say there are about 10 with the optimal rooftop views.

In the end, we booked with Caftan Cave Suites and I would HIGHLY recommend them ! They have cave rooms, very friendly staff, and epic rooftop views! The breakfast is also plentiful and delicious!

⭐⭐⭐ Book your stay in Caftan Cave Suites here !

3. Rent a car

When visiting Cappadocia, we pondered a lot about whether renting a car is ideal . After spending 5 days there, we would say that having a car is almost a must ! Of course, if you plan on just booking pre-organized tours every day, then you won’t need it. But if you are like us, who love to visit more remote spots, on your own time, and spend time at each place, then a car is a must. 

The city of Goreme is fully walkable, but all the main tourist sites, apart from Goreme Open Air Museum, are beyond walking distance.

If you don’t have a car, then you’ll have to book organized tours , which each cost minimum 100$ . They also visit only a section of the main sites so you would need to do 2 or 3 of them to see the main sites of Cappadocia. For example: This is the red tour of Cappadocia . 

Having a car permitted us to drive to beautiful sunrise and sunset spots. One of the most epic sunsets was at Crazy Ali cafe where you can overlook the red and rose valley. This was a 15-minute drive, so way too far to walk.

You can take a taxi but taxis are not always available, especially if you go to the more remote spots.

Car rentals are also quite affordable at around 30-40$ per day.

We booked our car through DiscoverCars and the process was a breeze! We rented it from Kayseri where our flight landed. This saved us from having to pay for a taxi to get to Goreme, and then pay for the taxi to get back to Kayseri at the end of our trip.

4. Eat in local towns

If you saw our post about if Cappadocia is worth visiting , then you will have undoubtedly seen that we were not very impressed by the food in Goreme. The food there was overpriced and we did not particularly find it tasty.

We then ventured out to Urgup and Avanos where the locals were and the food was not only far more affordable but also delicious!

I feel like this tip applies to every country we go to but it was particularly important in Cappadocia.

Make sure to venture out into the local towns for your meal!

5. Take advantage of their huge Turkish breakfast

One of the most famous meals in Turkey is their breakfast. Imagine having 10 different options of cheeses, spreads, jams, honeys, salads, fruits, breads, and much more! What is great is that the breakfast is oftentimes included in the hotel price.

So another money-saving tip is to eat a very large breakfast, and then skip lunch and eat an early dinner.

For us, we would wake up early for sunrise to take photos, then go back to the hotel at around 9-10am to eat breakfast, and then eat dinner at around 4-5pm. This worked great, saved us the price of a meal , and we didn’t ever feel hungry missing lunch either.

6. Take the public transport in Istanbul

If you saw our post about Uber in Istanbul , then you will already know that we don’t recommend taking taxis or Ubers in Istanbul. Instead, get an IstanbulKart and take the public transport. 

It is not only very efficient but also cheap! With the IstanbulKart, each ride costs around 1$ per person. This includes taking the Tram, bus, metro, and ferry on the same pass! Taxis and Ubers on the other hand, would’ve cost 20-30$ one way.

If you’re wondering why we don’t recommend Uber or Taxis, then check out this post where we explain our experience with Uber in Istanbul .

7. Inform yourself about the Turkey tipping culture

Tipping standards are different in every country we visit. We come from Canada so a tip of 15% is practically mandatory, regardless of the quality of service. 

So when we arrived in Turkey, we wondered what is the tipping culture. Make sure you inform yourself about how much you should tip in Turkey depending on the service provided.

8. Use ATMs that do not charge foreign transaction fees in Turkey

When traveling abroad, we often recommend bringing your Debit card and then using the ATMs to withdraw the local currency of that country. Oftentimes, you will get a very good exchange rate and it is far more convenient than bringing a large sum of cash to be exchanged there. However, you need to be mindful of foreign transaction fees that the ATMs might charge. The amount sometimes is small at around 2-3$ but can even go up to 10-15$.

For that reason, we would highly recommend going only to the bank ATMs that do not charge these foreign transaction fees . Here is a list of ATMs in Turkey that charge no fees or are very minimal (under 2$):

• Ziraat Bankasi

The banks in bold letters are the ones that I had the most success with. If I were to recommend just one bank ATM with no/minimal fees, it would be Ziraat Bankasi . They are also one of the most readily available.

Bonus tip! ⬇️

💵 Bonus tip : Use a debit/credit card that minimizes foreign exchange fees as well as withdrawal fees when traveling abroad. Check out WISE card here !

Review of our most expensive activities in Turkey

When we travel to a new country, we are after unique experiences that really have an impact on us. Sometimes these activities can be quite expensive so it is important to figure out if they are worth it . Check out our views below!

Turkish Blue Cruise

The Turkish Blue Cruise sailing the 12 islands was one of our favourite parts of our Turkey trip. It lasted 4 days and 3 nights and cost 500€ per person, all-inclusive . During the 4 days, we sailed along the Turquoise coast, ate fresh food, went paddleboarding, hiked on some of the islands, and totally unwinded.

We felt like this experience was really worth it and if compared to doing a cruise in other European destinations, it would cost WAY more! 

As an example, in Italy, we rented a boat to tour around the Amalfi coast for around 7 hours. It cost us close to 500€ for the boat with nothing else included.

Hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia

Despite the inflated prices, we still feel like the hot air balloon is worth doing . There are really not many places in the world where you can do a hot air balloon over such a unique landscape! There is also something truly magical about having so many balloons in the air with you at the same time.

At 220€ per person that we paid, it was the borderline of what we felt would be “worth it”. I believe that if we looked at the prices 2 months prior to our departure where it was 320€ per person, we might’ve skipped it.

🛑 Make sure to book early! Click here to reserve your Turquaz Hot Air Balloon !

Cappadocia Cave hotel

This is definitely worth it ! The rooftop terrace can be enjoyed both during sunrise and sunset and really adds to the magic of Cappadocia. The price of staying at a cave hotel with a rooftop terrace is also not much more than a standard hotel. 

For example, a standard hotel would cost around 40-50$, whereas cave hotels around 80-120$. For 30-50$ more a night, the added experience is really worth it!

Food tour in Istanbul

Overall we would say that the food tour is worth it and was included in our 3-day Istanbul itinerary ! The experience of the tour was great and we really learned a lot about the culture and history of Turkey. Prices are around 130$, you get to eat close to 11 courses, many of which you would not have found without the help of the guide. 

To learn more about the experience and some most know tips about the food tour, check out this post here !

Final verdict: Is Turkey expensive to visit?

Overall, we would consider Turkey a moderate-budget destination , similar to other European destinations. We certainly found it far more expensive than what was reported to us by fellow travelers who visited Turkey 1-2 months prior. This is likely due to the soaring inflation as well as the devaluation of the Turkish Lira. 

We hope that this budget breakdown will give you a good idea of how much you should expect to spend during your next trip to Turkey!

To check out some of our other guides, see below!

3 Days in Istanbul: Perfect Itinerary for First-time Visitors (2024)

Is Cappadocia Worth it? 10 Best Reasons & Things To Do 2024

Is Uber in Istanbul? Guide To Getting Around The City 2023

Do You Tip In Turkey: Tipping Etiquette For Every Situation

27 BEST Things To Do In Kas For A Unique Experience 2023

8 Things To Know Before Taking A Food Tour In Istanbul 2023

Ryan Chan is the owner and author of Wayless Travelers, a blog that seeks to inspire others to venture off-the-beaten-path and discover unique destinations around the world.

As a passionate photographer and outdoor enthusiast, Ryan loves to explore experiences outside of his comfort zone. Whether it is trekking multiple days into a cave, reaching mountain peaks of 6500m, or scuba diving with sharks, Ryan loves to capture and share his experiences.

As an expert travel planner, his objective is to help facilitate your next trip by providing detailed guides, itineraries, and recommendations based on his first hand experiences.

Best Time to Visit Turkey 2024 and 2025: A Comprehensive Guide

Explore the best time to visit Turkey for the perfect getaway. Learn more about the ideal conditions for your vacation and make the most of your trip.

• Seasonal Variation: Highlight Turkey's diverse climates and recommend ideal periods for beach holidays, historical exploration in Istanbul, and winter sports in Cappadocia.
• Peak vs. Off-Peak: Discuss the pros and cons of peak tourist seasons versus off-peak times, emphasizing the advantages of fewer crowds and discounted accommodations.
• Festivals and Events: Spotlight Turkey's cultural calendar, mentioning events like the International Istanbul Film Festival and the Whirling Dervishes Ceremony for a deeper cultural experience.
• Tailored Travel: Encourage travelers to match their interests with the best time to visit, whether it's exploring ruins, enjoying local cuisine, or engaging in outdoor activities.

Turkey is a land of captivating beauty, where ancient history and breathtaking landscapes merge harmoniously. From the ethereal landscapes of Cappadocia, with its surreal rock formations and hot air balloon-filled skies, to the stunning azure waters and pristine beaches of the Turquoise Coast, Turkey offers an abundance of natural wonders. Its diverse geography encompasses towering mountains, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls, providing a visual feast for the senses.

Moreover, Turkey's architectural marvels, such as the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, showcase the country's rich cultural heritage. With warm hospitality, vibrant bazaars, and mouthwatering cuisine, Turkey truly captivates visitors with its unique and mesmerizing beauty.

If you're planning a trip to Turkey in 2024 or 2025, you may be wondering what the best time to visit is. Turkey is a country that offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring ancient ruins to relaxing on stunning beaches, including the beaches along the European coastline . The time of year you visit can greatly impact your experience, so it's important to choose the right time for your interests and preferences.

When it comes to the best time to visit Turkey, it largely depends on what you're looking for. If you're a sun seeker and want to enjoy Turkey's beautiful beaches, then the summer months of June to August are the most popular. However, this also means that crowds and costs go up with the temperatures. If you prefer milder temperatures and want to avoid the crowds, then April, May, September, and October are pleasantly warm and typically the best times to visit Turkey's ancient sites.

Attention adventure seekers! Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey? Join us for an incredible experience with Turkey Tours , your gateway to discovery and adventure in the mesmerizing land of Turkey. This is your call to action, your chance to immerse yourself in a world of cultural wonders, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history.

Le't First Discover the Weather in Turkey

- Temperatures of Turkey

The temperature in Turkey varies depending on the season and the region in 2024. The coastal areas of Turkey are milder than the inland regions. The summer months of June to August are the hottest, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). The winter months of December to February are the coldest, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F).

If you're planning to visit Turkey during the summer months, it's important to pack light and breathable clothing, as well as sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. If you're visiting during the winter months, make sure to pack warm clothing, including a coat, gloves, and a hat.

Rainfall in Turkey varies depending on the region and the time of year. The coastal areas of Turkey receive more rainfall than the inland regions. The rainy season in Turkey is from November to March, with December being the wettest month. The summer months of June to August are the driest, with little to no rainfall.

If you're planning to visit Turkey during the rainy season, make sure to pack waterproof clothing and shoes. If you're visiting during the dry season, make sure to pack plenty of water and stay hydrated, as well as sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

Overall, the best time to visit Turkey is during the spring months of April, May, and early June, as well as the fall months of September and October. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) and less rainfall than the winter months. However, if you're planning to visit during the summer months, make sure to stay hydrated and protected from the sun, and if you're visiting during the winter months, make sure to pack warm clothing.

Regions to Visit Turkey in 2024 or 2025

1. Mediterranean Coast

The Mediterranean Coast is a popular destination for tourists, with its warm climate and beautiful beaches. Antalya is a must-visit city, with its historic old town, stunning waterfalls, and access to the Lycian Way hiking trail. Bodrum is another popular destination, known for its nightlife and beautiful beaches.

2. Aegean Coast

The Aegean Coast is another great destination, with its beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and charming towns. Pamukkale is a unique destination, with its white travertine terraces and ancient Roman ruins. Kusadasi is another popular destination, with its access to the ancient city of Ephesus.

3. Black Sea Region

The Black Sea Region is a lesser-known destination, but it offers a unique experience with its lush green landscapes and cooler climate. Konya is a must-visit city, with its rich history and stunning architecture. The cities of Erzurum and Kars are also worth visiting, with their beautiful mosques and access to the stunning landscapes of the Kaçkar Mountains.

4. Central Anatolia

Central Anatolia is home to the iconic Cappadocia region, known for its fairy chimneys and hot air balloon rides. The region is also home to the city of Konya, with its rich history and stunning architecture. Ankara, the capital of Turkey, is also located in Central Anatolia and is home to the stunning Anıtkabir mausoleum.

No matter which region you choose to visit, Turkey has something to offer everyone. From the historic sites of Istanbul, including the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, to the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia and the Bosphorus, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Turkey.

Don't let your dream trip to Turkey slip away! Take action now and embark on a 15 days Turkey tour package that will leave you spellbound. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, Turkey awaits your exploration.

Seasonal Considerations Before Visiting Turkey

- High Season

The high season in Turkey is from June to August. During this time, the weather is hot and sunny, making it perfect for swimming and other outdoor activities. However, this is also the busiest time of year, with large crowds of visitors and high demand for accommodations, tours, and restaurants. Expect to pay higher prices for everything, and plan your itinerary well in advance. If you're looking for a lively vacation with plenty of festivals and events, this is the best time to visit.

- Shoulder Season

The shoulder season in Turkey is from April to May and September to October. During this time, the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller, making it easier to find accommodations and bargains. You'll have more flexibility with your itinerary and can enjoy sightseeing, shopping, and dining without the crowds. However, some attractions may have limited hours or be closed during this time. If you're looking for a balance between crowds and bargains, this is the best time to visit.

- Low Season

The low season in Turkey is from November to March. During this time, the weather is cooler, and some areas may even experience snow. While this is not the best time for swimming or other outdoor activities, it is a great time for skiing and hamam visits. You'll also find lower prices for accommodations, tours, and restaurants. However, some attractions may be closed or have limited hours, and you may need to adjust your itinerary accordingly. If you're looking for a budget-friendly vacation and don't mind the cooler weather, this is the best time to visit.

Regardless of the season you choose, Turkey has plenty of things to do and see. From visiting mosques and museums to skiing and swimming, there's something for everyone. Just be sure to plan your itinerary carefully and book your accommodations and tours in advance to avoid disappointment.

Cultural Considerations Before Exploring Egypt

1. Muslim Holidays

Turkey celebrates several Muslim holidays throughout the year, such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. During these holidays, many businesses and attractions may be closed or have limited hours. It's important to plan accordingly and check the dates of these holidays before booking your trip.

Ramadan is a month-long holiday during which Muslims fast from dawn until dusk. While it's not necessary for non-Muslims to fast, it's important to be respectful of those who are fasting. Many restaurants and cafes may be closed during the day, and it's recommended to avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.

3. Lunar Calendar

Turkey follows the lunar calendar for Islamic holidays, which means that the dates of these holidays can vary from year to year. It's important to check the lunar calendar when planning your trip to Turkey to ensure that you're aware of any upcoming holidays.

Overall, it's important to be respectful of Turkey's Muslim culture and customs. This includes dressing modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites, and being mindful of local customs and traditions.

Turkey has a rich history and culture, with influences from the Turkish Republic, Ataturk, WWI, and more. In addition to its religious customs, Turkey also hosts several cultural events throughout the year, such as the Istanbul International Film Festival and the Istanbul Jazz Festival. Be sure to check the calendar of events when planning your trip to Turkey to take advantage of these cultural offerings.

In conclusion, Turkey is a country that truly captivates with its diverse offerings. From its rich historical sites and architectural marvels to its stunning natural landscapes and inviting beaches, Turkey has something for every traveler.

Source of Vidoe: Inspiring Vacations

10 Islamic Landmarks to Visit in 2023

I slamic Heritage sites are distributed all over the world, even in the most unexpected places. Traveling and visiting the world's best Islamic landmarks can introduce you to the tenets of Islam through learning about Islam's history and heritage as well as immersing yourself in architectural masterpieces. 

Here is a list of 10 Islamic World Heritage Sites to visit in 2023:

Sheikh zayed grand mosque, uae.

Located in Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in the country and one of the largest mosques in the world. It features 82 domes, over 1,000 columns, 24-karat gold chandeliers, and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet. The mosque is big enough to accommodate over 40,000 visitors as the complex covers over 22,400 square meters.

Museum of Islamic Art, Qatar

The Museum of Islamic Art on one end of the seven-kilometer-long Corniche in Doha is focused on art from the Arab world. It houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Islamic art in the world from three continents created over 1,400 years.

Dome of the Rock, Palestine

Located on the Temple Mount in the Old City of Jerusalem, a site also known to Muslims as the Al-Aqsa Compound, the Dome of the Rock was built between 685 and 692 AD by Abd al-Malik. It marks a period in Islamic history when the message was in its youth. It is revered by most Muslims as the spot where Isra and Miraj took place.

Great Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha, Egypt

Muhammad Ali Mosque is situated on the summit of the Citadel of Cairo and was commissioned by the ruler of Egypt Muhammad Ali Pasha between 1830 and 1848 AD to be a place of worship and his resting place. This Ottoman mosque is the largest to be built in the first half of the 19th century.

Hassan II Mosque, Morocco

Hassan II Mosque is the largest mosque in Morocco and stands majestically in the largest city of Morocco, Casablanca. It has been a point of interest for many visitors and is known to be home to the tallest minaret in the world. Sitting on the shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean, the mosque overlooks the sea majestically.

Hagia Sophia, Turkey

Hagia Sophia is a major historical monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Istanbul. It stands out as one of the greatest testaments to the power of the Ottoman Empire. Originally built to serve as a cathedral by the Greek Orthodox church in 360 AD, the Hagia Sophia was later converted into a mosque, then a museum, and then in 2020, the Turkish government decided it was time to pray again in Hagia Sophia for the first time in 86 years.  

Alhambra Palace, Spain

Considered by some as the eighth wonder of the world, the Alhambra Palace is a representation of one of the finest pieces of Islamic art and architecture. As well as being Spain's most visited historical attraction, attracting two million visitors each year, many of which are Muslims. It marks an important period in Islamic history, the Golden Age of Islam, when the southern part of Europe was under Islamic dominion; it's known as Andalusia. 

Jama Masjid, India 

Known as the largest mosque in India, the imposing Jama Masjid of Delhi boasts a courtyard that can accommodate up to 25,000 visitors. It was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan who built the Taj Mahal, and inaugurated by its first Imam, Syed Abdul Ghafoor Shah Bukhari. The mosque's construction began in 1644 and completed by 1656 AD. It was the primary mosque for the city's sizeable Muslim population as well as the Mughal emperors until the mid-19th century. 

Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia 

Located in Kuala Lumpur and officially opened in 1998, the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia is regarded as the largest museum of Islamic art in Southeast Asia and gives visitors an insight into Islam through its global collection of Islamic Art. The museum showcases early copies of the Qur'an and Hadith books.

Kampong Gelam, Singapore

Kampong Gelam is one of Singapore's oldest districts. It was known as the Muslim quarter as it was also home to the Sultan of Johore and was thriving with a huge community of Muslim traders. The imposing Sultan Mosque, known as Singapore's biggest mosque, is a constant reminder of the district's history. The mosque was built in 1824 AD by Sultan Hussein Shah. 

This article was posted on UAEMoments

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Russia-Ukraine war latest: Zelenskyy responds to Trump's 'peace plan'

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has responded to alleged comments from Donald Trump about how to end the war in Ukraine. Moscow has accused Kyiv of attacking a nuclear plant for three days in a row. Plus, our question form is open again to submit a question for our military analysts.

Wednesday 10 April 2024 15:31, UK

• Zelenskyy responds to Trump 'peace plan'
• Sharp increase in civilian casualties in Ukraine
• The situation at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant
• The big picture : Everything you need to know about the war this week
• Your questions answered: Is it too late to save Ukraine?
• Live reporting by Emily Mee

Ask a question or make a comment

Our comments box is open once again for you to submit a question on the Ukraine war for Sky News military analysts or correspondents.

We'll pick the best one to answer each week.

A top US general has warned Ukraine will run out of artillery shells and air defence interceptors "in fairly short order" without further American support. 

They told Congress the "stakes are very high" for Ukraine. 

In an update to our last post, the regional governor of Ukraine's Kharkiv region has said this afternoon's airstrike in the village of Lyptsi killed three people.

In a post on Telegram, Oleh Synehubov said that as well as the 14-year-old girl's death we reported earlier, two women were killed in the attack.

Two more people were injured, and rescuers continue searching through the rubble for victims.

Local authorities are reporting a child has been killed and at least three others injured in an attack on the Kharkiv region. 

Russian guided aerial bombs struck the Lyptsi, Mala Danylivka, and Vovchansk settlements, regional governor Oleh Syniehubov said. 

The governor said the local shop and pharmacy caught fire during the attacks. 

A 14-year-old girl was killed and at least two people - a 33-year-old female pharmacy worker and a 16-year-old boy - were injured in Lyptsi. 

In Vovchansk, a 34-year-old man was taken to hospital with a shrapnel wound. 

Mr Syniehubov said the local health centre was destroyed. 

The Swiss government has said it will host a high-level Ukraine peace conference in June.

It said that the conference's aim is to create a concrete roadmap for Russia's participation in the peace process. 

But Russia has made clear it will not take part in the initiative. 

The conference will take place on 15 and 16 June outside the city of Lucerne. 

A G7 summit is taking place in neighbouring Italy between 13 and 15 June.

Switzerland had said in January it would host a peace summit at the request of Volodymyr Zelenskyy and has since held talks with the EU, G7 member states and countries such as China and India to garner their support. 

"There is currently sufficient international support for a high-level conference to launch the peace process," the Federal Council said in a statement. 

It acknowledged "some unknowns" leading up to the conference, "but in view of Switzerland's long-standing diplomatic tradition and the encouraging feedback received during the exploratory phase, it considers it its responsibility to contribute to the peace process in Ukraine."

The UK foreign secretary has said peace in Ukraine can only come from backing Kyiv, rather than through "appeasement" of Russia. 

His comments appear to be a rebuttal of alleged remarks from Donald Trump that Ukraine should give up some of its occupied territory to end the war. 

Lord Cameron told CNN: "Without saying what I spoke [about] with Donald Trump, fundamentally, this year - and you heard from Zelenskyy this morning - there's a risk that Ukraine will lose more ground to [Vladimir] Putin.

"No one wants to be in a situation in November where we could have acted, we could have helped, we could have beaten back Putin, we could have started the process of getting a Ukraine win and getting a just peace but we failed to do that."

Asked about Mr Trump's alleged comments, he said everyone wants to see an end to the war "but you only get that by backing Ukraine, by showing strength". 

"Peace comes through strength, not through appeasement and weakness," he said. 

Over the past week we've been asking for your questions on the war for our military analysts and international correspondents.

Every week we're picking one or two to answer - starting with this...

With the (lack of) speed of Western policies being implemented and the speed of Russian military production increasing, isn't it already too late to save Ukraine even if European countries agreed on a huge increase in military spending? Andy

Military analyst Sean Bell answers this one...

Thank you, Andy, for this very topical question. 

Wars at scale involve the consumption of huge amounts of weapons, ammunition and military equipment - far beyond the scale that can be held in peacetime stockpiles, and also beyond the capacity of a peacetime defence industrial base. To meet the demands of a modern battlefield, political masters need to make swift decisions about where to invest and what existing production capability can be paused to create capacity to surge military production.

Russia recognised early that it would be involved in a long-term military campaign, and has surged its defence industrial base by at least three times its pre-war size. In addition, Russian oil revenues are funding vast imports of ammunition and missiles from North Korea and Iran.  

In contrast, Ukraine's own defence industrial base remains vulnerable to Russian attack, and it remains increasingly dependent on Western military support to survive. 

Although Western industrial capacity is an order of magnitude greater than Russia's, Russia is ramping up production where the West has been slow to respond.

Western nations now recognise the wider threat that Russia poses to European security, and defence budgets are rising accordingly.  But this represents long-term investment in domestic security, rather than providing a near-term supply of weapons for Ukraine.  

The only credible solution in the near-term - the coming year - is for the US to approve the $60bn military aid package which would enable the rapid deployment of off-the-shelf weapons and ammunition. If that is not forthcoming, the coming summer could prove very difficult for Ukraine.

Meanwhile, Emmanuel Macron, the French president, continues to argue the West should not rule out putting "boots on the ground" - a view supported by former UK defence secretary Ben Wallace.  Although this would be a significant escalation, it would enable the West to deploy modern weapons from its inventory which - to date - have not been sent to Ukraine for fear of them ending up on the black market.

The West could also implement a no-fly zone over all or part of Ukraine. Given the poor performance of the Russian air force, this would almost certainly turn the tide of the war in Ukraine's favour.  

But is there the political appetite to take such a step - even if it would almost certainly halt Vladimir Putin's brutal war in Ukraine?

The two countries have signed a framework agreement to cooperate in the defence and arms production sectors, officials in Kyiv have said. 

The document was signed at a military industry conference in the Ukrainian capital that was attended by about 30 British defence companies. 

British firms were there to discuss potential joint ventures with Ukrainian weapons and defence producers.

The UK's minister for trade policy Greg Hands said he hoped the agreement would bring gains for Ukraine on the battlefield and also help its economy in the longer term. 

Ukraine has been ramping up efforts to produce its own weaponry as it appears outgunned and outmanned on the battlefield. 

It is hoping also to lure major Western producers to set up repair and production facilities in Ukraine, despite the threat of Russian bombardment. 

British defence company BAE Systems, one of the first Western producers to set up a local entity in Ukraine, signed an agreement with the UK's defence ministry to conduct maintenance, repair and overhaul of light guns on the ground in Ukraine. 

Officials also said they hoped for more projects this year in the drone production sector. 

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has responded to alleged comments from Donald Trump about how to end the war in Ukraine. 

The former US president, who wants to make it into the White House again in November, reportedly said privately that both Ukraine and Russia "want to save face, they want a way out".

Mr Trump allegedly added that Ukraine should cede part of its occupied territories to Moscow, claiming Ukrainians there would not object to being part of Russia, according to the Washington Post.

His adviser later denied these claims in a comment for the New York Post, calling the article "fake news". 

Mr Zelenskyy said in an interview with Bild that he is sceptical of this reported peace plan. 

"If the deal and the idea is simply to give our territories, then it is very primitive," Mr Zelenskyy said. 

The Ukrainian president said he was willing to listen to Mr Trump's ideas for ending the war if he had "strong arguments". 

"We don't need a fantastic idea, but a real one. This is about human lives; we cannot make jokes, and we cannot take risks," he said. 

He also pointed out Kyiv had invited Mr Trump to Ukraine, publicly and non-publicly, to see the situation with his own eyes. 

The US politician has not accepted the invitation so far. 

Ukrainian drones targeted an aviation training centre in the Russian city of Borisoglebsk overnight, a Ukrainian military intelligence source has told the Kyiv Independent. 

A spokesperson for the intelligence agency also confirmed there was an attack, but did not say who was behind it. 

Russian Telegram channel Astra said the aviation centre was struck by two drones which exploded and damaged the building's facade. 

A Russian missile and drone attack has damaged energy infrastructure in southern Ukraine this morning.

Ukraine's air force said Russia launched 17 attack drones and three missiles in its latest overnight attacks. 

Air defences downed 14 of the drones and two of the missiles. 

An energy facility in the Black Sea region of Odesa was targeted, causing damage, regional governor Oleh Kiper said. 

No injuries were reported. 

The Ukrainian military also said energy infrastructure in the city of Mykolaiv was damaged and power supply was disrupted for several hours. 

There were no casualties here either, it said. 

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