Turkey Travel Guide

Where Every Step in Turkey Tells a New Story

About Me

Having spent nearly half of my life overseas, I’ve explored 18 countries across four continents. Traveling has never been just about ticking destinations off a list—it’s about the experiences, the people, and the cultures I’ve encountered along the way. Every journey adds a new chapter, shaping who I am as a person and as a blogger.

Turkey Travel Guide

Language

Turkish (official language), widely spoken English in tourist areas.

Climate

Turkey has diverse climates, from Mediterranean coasts with hot summers to cooler, snowy winters in Cappadocia and Eastern Anatolia.

Capital

Ankara, though Istanbul remains the most visited and vibrant city.

Power Plugs

Type C / D / G

 

Currency

Turkish Lira (TRY); 1 USD ≈ 30 TRY (2025).

Safety

Turkey is a safe country for travelers, but be cautious of pickpocketing in busy areas like Istanbul, Antalya, and Cappadocia.

Apps

Avas Ride and Uber

 

Brief Summary

Turkey is a captivating travel destination, offering a mix of rich history, scenic landscapes, and world-famous cuisine. Whether you’re looking for things to do in Turkey, exploring the bustling streets of Istanbul, relaxing on the Mediterranean beaches of Antalya, or taking a Cappadocia hot air balloon tour, Turkey offers something for everyone.

 

As a country bridging Europe and Asia, Turkey is filled with cultural and historical treasures. From Istanbul’s iconic landmarks to Antalya’s turquoise coastline, every region has a unique charm. If you’re searching for the best places to visit in Turkey, highlights include Pamukkale’s thermal pools, the ancient ruins of Ephesus, and the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia.

 

For international travelers, Istanbul Airport (IST), Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), and Antalya Airport (AYT) serve as major entry points, with flights to Turkey available from around the world.

Best Flight Deals to Turkey

Find the best flights to Turkey on Skyscanner and start planning your trip!

Visa

Turkey offers a straightforward visa process for travelers:

  • Visa-free entry is available for citizens of the EU, UK, Japan, and many South American countries.
  • Travelers from countries like the US, Canada, India, and Pakistan can apply for a Turkey eVisa online before traveling.
  • The electronic visa Republic of Turkey allows eligible travelers to apply online for a quick and easy entry process.

For details, check the Turkey visa application page.

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Transportation

Turkey has an excellent transport system, making it easy to travel between cities and regions.

  • Trains: The high-speed rail network connects Istanbul, Ankara, Konya, and Eskişehir.
  • Buses: Intercity buses are comfortable and affordable, with top operators like Metro Turizm and Kamil Koç.
  • Domestic Flights: Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines offer cheap flights within Turkey.
  • Ferries: A great way to travel between Istanbul’s European and Asian sides or to islands like Büyükada.

🚆 Need to book trains, buses, or flights to Turkey? Check out the best deals here.

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Safety in Turkey

Turkey is safe for travelers, but take these precautions:

  • Be aware of scams in Istanbul’s tourist spots.
  • Use BiTaksi or licensed taxis to avoid overcharging.
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly in religious sites.
  • Emergency services can be reached at 112.

Best Time to Visit Turkey

Turkey’s best travel season depends on your activities:

  • Spring (April–June): Best for historical sites, Istanbul sightseeing, and outdoor activities.
  • Summer (July–August): Ideal for beach destinations like Antalya, Bodrum, and Fethiye.
  • Autumn (September–November): Perfect for cultural trips and fewer crowds.
  • Winter (December–February): Best for skiing in Uludağ and exploring Cappadocia in the snow.

Things to Do in Turkey

From historical landmarks to breathtaking landscapes, here are the top things to do in Turkey:

 

Istanbul

  • Visit Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, two of the top Istanbul tourist attractions.
  • Walk through Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar.
  • Take a Bosphorus cruise to admire the skyline.
  • Discover hidden gems in Istanbul’s charming districts.

Cappadocia

  • Experience the Cappadocia hot air balloon tour at sunrise.
  • Explore underground cities like Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı.
  • Visit Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO site.

Antalya & The Mediterranean Coast

  • Discover Antalya attractions like Hadrian’s Gate and the Düden Waterfalls.
  • Enjoy the best beaches in Turkey in Konyaaltı and Lara Beach.
  • Visit Aspendos and Termessos, ancient archaeological sites.

Ephesus & Pamukkale

  • Walk through the ancient ruins of Ephesus.
  • Bathe in the thermal pools of Pamukkale.
  • Visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Bucket List Locations

  • Istanbul: A blend of history, culture, and nightlife.
  • Cappadocia: Famous for hot air balloons and cave hotels.
  • Pamukkale: Home to white travertine terraces and ancient ruins.
  • Antalya: A beach paradise with a mix of history and adventure.
  • Bodrum: Best for luxury beach resorts and nightlife.
  • Mount Nemrut: A mysterious site with giant stone statues.

Hotels & Accommodation in Turkey

Turkey offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget stays.

  • Hotel booking in Istanbul: Stay in Sultanahmet for history or Taksim for nightlife.
  • Cappadocia cave hotels: Book a cave hotel for a unique experience.
  • Antalya beach resorts: Enjoy Lara Beach, Belek, and Side for a seaside retreat.

Posts

My latest blog posts about Turkey!

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