Türkiye

Turkey is a breathtaking bridge between the Orient and the Occident, where ancient minarets pierce the skyline of modern metropolises across two continents. You can wander through the remnants of Roman empires in the morning and find yourself lost in the vibrant energy of a contemporary Istanbul bazaar by nightfall. From the surreal fairy chimney rock formations of the interior to the crystalline turquoise waters of the southern coast, the diversity of the landscape is as profound as its storied history. This is a land of sensory delights where the scent of freshly ground spices mixes with the calls to prayer and the legendary warmth of local hospitality. Whether you seek the quiet of a mountain trail or the bustle of an ancient trade route, Turkey offers an adventure that is both exotic and deeply welcoming.

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We built this guide using official tourism data, local travel insights, and real pricing from our city guides, so you can plan your trip with confidence.

3 cities

9 guides

$71 – $72 Daily Budget

Quick Facts

Capital

Ankara

Languages

Turkish

Currency

Turkish Lira (TRY)

1 $ ≈ 44 ₺

Plug Type

Type C/F (230V, 50Hz)

Driving Side

Right

Dial Code

+90

Entry Requirements

Check requirements →

Time Zone

TRT (UTC+3)

Emergency

112 (all services); also 155 (Police), 110 (Fire), 156 (Gendarmerie)

Why Visit Türkiye

A Living History Museum

Turkey is home to some of the most significant archaeological sites on Earth, including the Neolithic wonders of Göbeklitepe and the massive Library of Celsus at Ephesus. You can walk the same marble streets as ancient Greeks and Romans, exploring layers of civilization that span over ten thousand years.

Otherworldly Landscapes

The country’s geography features unique formations like the volcanic valleys of Cappadocia and the white travertine thermal pools of Pamukkale. These natural wonders provide a dramatic backdrop for hot air balloon rides and hiking adventures that feel like stepping onto another planet.

World-Class Culinary Heritage

Turkish cuisine is a sophisticated fusion of Middle Eastern, Balkan, and Mediterranean influences that goes far beyond the standard kebab. From the rich breakfast spreads of the Aegean to the spicy stews of the southeast, the food culture is a central pillar of the local identity.

The Stunning Turquoise Coast

The southwestern coastline offers some of the clearest waters in the Mediterranean, perfect for sailing on a traditional wooden gulet. Hidden coves, pine-fringed beaches like Ölüdeniz, and ancient ruins overlooking the sea make it a premier destination for relaxation and sun-seeking.

Exceptional Travel Value

With a daily budget averaging around $72 / ₺3,151, Turkey remains one of the most affordable high-end destinations in the world. You can enjoy five-star meals, unique boutique accommodations, and extensive domestic travel networks for a fraction of the cost found in Western Europe.

Top Experiences

Top-rated tours and activities in Türkiye

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Cities & Destinations

Best in Apr

Turkey

Regions

Marmara Region

Centered around the sprawling metropolis of Istanbul, this region is the economic and cultural heart of Turkey where Europe meets Asia. It is home to iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, offering a dense mix of Byzantine history and modern urban life.

Aegean Coast

This region is defined by its fertile valleys, olive groves, and some of the world's best-preserved classical ruins, including Ephesus. Its coastline is dotted with popular resort towns like Bodrum and Çeşme, famous for their white-washed houses, vibrant nightlife, and Aegean seafood.

Mediterranean Coast

Often called the Turkish Riviera, this region features dramatic mountain backdrops meeting the crystal-blue waters of Antalya and Fethiye. It is a paradise for hikers on the Lycian Way and those looking to explore the sunken ruins of Kekova or lounge on vast sandy beaches.

Central Anatolia

The high plateau heartland of Turkey is home to the capital, Ankara, and the magical, cave-filled landscapes of Cappadocia. This region offers a glimpse into traditional Turkish life away from the coast, featuring troglodyte dwellings, underground cities, and vast steppe scenery.

Cities & Destinations:

Best Time to Visit

Turkey is best visited during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. The diverse geography means conditions vary, but April–May and September–October generally offer the best balance for exploring both cities and historical sites.

Peak Season

Jun, Jul, Aug, Dec

The hot summer months see massive crowds at Mediterranean beach resorts and Istanbul's major sites. High temperatures often exceed 35°C, particularly in the south. Late December is also busy due to New Year festivities in major cities.

Shoulder Season

Apr, May, Sep, Oct

These months offer pleasant temperatures between 15–25°C (59–77°F) and fewer tourists. It is the ideal time for hiking in Cappadocia, visiting ancient ruins like Ephesus, and enjoying Istanbul's outdoor cafes.

Off-Peak

Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov

Winter can be cold and rainy, with snow common in central Anatolia and occasional dustings in Istanbul. While coastal resorts may be quiet, it is the best time for skiing and finding significant discounts on luxury accommodation.

Getting Around

Turkey boasts a highly developed and affordable transport network that efficiently connects major cities and remote villages. Domestic flights and a world-class intercity bus system are the primary modes for travelers.

Bus

Intercity buses are the most popular way to travel, featuring modern coaches with reclining seats, Wi-Fi, and onboard refreshments. Major companies like Kamil Koç and Metro Turizm operate frequent routes connecting almost every town.

Flight

Domestic flights are fast and often cost-effective, with carriers like Turkish Airlines and Pegasus linking Istanbul to hubs like Antalya and Kayseri (for Cappadocia) in ~1–1.5 hours.

Train

High-speed YHT trains connect Istanbul, Ankara, Eskişehir, and Konya. The scenic Doğu Express (Eastern Express) is a popular overnight rail journey toward Kars for those seeking a slower pace.

Metro

Istanbul has an extensive system of metros, trams, and historic funiculars. Other major cities like Ankara and Antalya also have modern rail and tram networks that are easy for tourists to navigate using rechargeable cards.

Ferry

In Istanbul, ferries are a scenic and essential way to cross between the European and Asian sides of the Bosphorus. High-speed ferries also link Istanbul with Yalova and Bursa across the Sea of Marmara.

Food & Drink

Turkish food culture is a ritual of hospitality that emphasizes fresh ingredients, communal dining, and a delicate balance of spices. Meals often begin with a variety of meze appetizers and are almost always concluded with a glass of tea or strong coffee.

Must Try

Döner Kebab

Meat seasoned with tallow and herbs, slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in thin slices with fresh lavaş bread or over a bed of buttery rice.

Baklava

A rich dessert made of dozens of layers of filo pastry filled with crushed pistachios or walnuts and held together with a sweet sugar syrup.

Menemen

A popular breakfast dish consisting of eggs scrambled with tomatoes, green peppers, and spices, traditionally served in the copper pan it was cooked in.

Lahmacun

A thin, crispy flatbread topped with a savory mixture of minced meat, vegetables, and herbs, usually eaten with a squeeze of lemon and rolled with fresh parsley.

Türk Kahvesi

Strong, unfiltered coffee served in small cups with the grounds settled at the bottom, often accompanied by a small piece of Turkish delight to balance the bitterness.

Pide

A boat-shaped flatbread baked in a stone oven with various toppings like spiced meat, spinach, or local cheeses, often referred to as Turkish pizza.

Ayran

A refreshing and savory yogurt-based drink mixed with water and salt, which is the traditional accompaniment to grilled meats and spicy dishes.

Money & Costs

Turkey offers excellent value for money with an average daily budget of ~$72 / ₺3,151. While prices in tourist hubs like Istanbul and Bodrum have risen, local dining and transport remain very affordable compared to Western Europe.

Tipping

Tipping 5–10% in restaurants is standard and appreciated; it should be left in cash as most card readers do not support adding gratuity. Small tips for hotel porters (~$1.18–$2.36 / ₺52–₺103) are also common.

Cards

Credit and debit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted in hotels, modern malls, and most restaurants. However, cash is still essential for bazaars, small vendors, and public transport in rural areas.

ATMs

ATMs (Bankamatik) are ubiquitous. Banks like Ziraat and HSBC often do not charge local fees, though others may. Always choose 'Decline Conversion' to get the best rate from your home bank.

Culture & Etiquette

Turkish culture is deeply rooted in hospitality and respect for traditions, blending secular modernism with strong religious heritage. Visitors are warmly welcomed, but following local customs regarding dress and social interaction will greatly enhance your experience.

✓

Accept an offering of tea (çay) even if you only take a few sips, as it is a primary gesture of hospitality and refusal can be seen as impolite.

✓

Remove your shoes before entering a Turkish home or the carpeted areas of a mosque to respect the cleanliness of the space.

✓

Dress modestly when visiting mosques; ensure shoulders and knees are covered, and women must use a headscarf which is usually provided at the entrance.

Don't take photographs of people, especially elderly locals or those in prayer, without first asking for permission as it is considered disrespectful.

✓

Learn basic Turkish phrases like 'Teşekkür ederim' for thank you, as locals highly appreciate visitors who show an interest in their language.

Don't make jokes or disparaging remarks about the Turkish flag or Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the nation's founder, as this is illegal and deeply offensive.

Don't point the soles of your feet at others when sitting, as this is considered a rude gesture in many parts of the country.

✓

Bargain politely in bazaars like the Grand Bazaar; it is expected for higher-value items, but always keep the interaction friendly and respectful.

Safety & Health

Turkey is generally safe for tourists, though visitors are advised to exercise increased caution in large crowds and avoid areas within 10km of the Syrian border. Petty crime like pickpocketing occurs in busy tourist zones like Sultanahmet.

Tap Water

not recommended for visitors; bottled/filtered preferred

Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations plus Hepatitis A and Typhoid are recommended for most travelers due to potential food and water risks in more rural areas.

Common Scams

⚠ The shoe-shine scam: a man drops his brush and offers a 'free' shine when you return it, then demands a high fee.
⚠ The 'Let's have a drink' scam: a friendly local invites you to a bar where you are served overpriced drinks and forced to pay a massive bill.
⚠ Unmetered taxis: drivers claiming the meter is broken to charge inflated flat rates; always insist on the meter or use a ride-hailing app.
⚠ The 'Golden' carpet tour: high-pressure sales tactics in carpet shops disguised as historical tours or hospitality.
⚠ Distraction pickpocketing: orchestrated groups causing a scene in crowded markets like the Grand Bazaar to steal wallets.

Private hospitals in major cities provide high-quality care, often with English-speaking staff. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential as public facilities can be overcrowded.

Language

Turkish is the official language. While English is widely spoken in major tourist centers and hotels, proficiency drops significantly in residential areas and smaller towns, where a few Turkish phrases are highly valued.

English Spoken: Moderately spoken

Key Phrases

Key Phrases
Meaning	Local	Pronunciation
Hello	Merhaba	mer-ha-ba
Thank you	Teşekkür ederim	te-shek-kur e-de-rim
Please	Lütfen	lut-fen
How much?	Ne kadar?	ne ka-dar
Where is...?	... nerede?	... ne-re-de
Yes / No	Evet / Hayır	e-vet / ha-yir
Excuse me	Afedersiniz	a-fe-der-si-niz
Goodbye	Hoşça kal	hosh-cha kal

Visa & Entry

Turkey offers a streamlined entry process with an e-Visa system for many nationalities and visa exemptions for several others. Travelers must carry a passport valid for at least 60 days beyond their intended stay.

Max Stay

90 days in 180-day period

Passport Validity

60 days beyond the permitted stay (e.g., 150 days total for a 90-day stay)

Visa-free for

USA, UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Brazil, South Korea

Check requirements →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Turkey safe for solo travelers?

Turkey is generally safe for solo travelers, and major tourist hubs like Istanbul, Antalya, and Cappadocia are very secure. However, you should exercise standard caution in crowded areas to avoid pickpockets and stay at least 10km away from the Syrian border. Women traveling alone may encounter occasional catcalling in less touristy areas, but dressing modestly and using reputable transport apps usually prevents any issues.

How much money do I need per day in Turkey?

The average daily budget for a traveler in Turkey is approximately $72 / ₺3,151, which comfortably covers mid-range accommodation, local meals, and public transportation. While prices in Istanbul and upscale resorts like Bodrum can be higher, you can find excellent street food like lahmacun for $3.53–$5.89 / ₺155–₺258 and a high-quality sit-down dinner for roughly $18–$24 / ₺775–₺1,033 per person.

When is the best time to visit Turkey?

The ideal months to visit Turkey are during the shoulder seasons of April–May and September–October when the weather is mild, typically ranging from 18–25°C (64–77°F). Peak summer months of July and August can be intensely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C, leading to large crowds and higher prices at coastal resorts, while winter is quiet but can be quite cold and rainy.

Do I need a visa to enter Turkey?

Most international visitors require an e-Visa to enter Turkey, which allows for a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism. You should check the official government e-Visa website well before your departure to confirm the specific requirements for your nationality and pay the necessary fee in € to ensure a smooth entry process at the border.

Is English widely spoken in Turkey?

English proficiency is moderate across the country, especially in major cities like Istanbul and popular tourist regions like Antalya or Cappadocia where hospitality workers speak it well. In more rural areas or traditional local markets, English is much less common, so carrying a translation app or learning a few basic Turkish phrases will be very helpful for navigating daily interactions.

What food should I try in Turkey?

You should prioritize trying regional specialties like the pottery-cooked Testi Kebabı in Cappadocia and the world-famous Baklava from the southeast. A traditional Turkish breakfast is also a must, featuring an elaborate spread of cheeses, olives, honey, and fresh breads. For a quick snack, look for Simit, a sesame-crusted bread ring sold by street vendors in every major city for about $1.18 / ₺52.

How do I get around Turkey?

Turkey has an incredibly efficient and affordable transport network that includes high-quality intercity buses and a vast domestic flight system connecting all major regions. Within cities like Istanbul, you can use the integrated Istanbulkart to travel via metro, tram, and ferry. For exploring more remote coastal areas or the mountains, renting a car is a practical option as the primary roads are generally in excellent condition.

Can I drink the tap water in Turkey?

It is generally advised that visitors avoid drinking tap water in Turkey as it may contain minerals or bacteria that can cause stomach upset for those not used to it. Bottled water is widely available and very affordable, usually costing less than $1.18 / ₺52 for a large bottle in local shops. You can safely use tap water for showering and brushing your teeth in most major cities without concern.

What is the dress code for visiting mosques in Turkey?

When entering any mosque, you must remove your shoes and dress conservatively to show respect for the religious site. Men should wear long trousers that cover the knees, and women must cover their shoulders, knees, and hair with a scarf. Most popular mosques, such as the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, provide free wraps and headscarves at the entrance for visitors who are not appropriately dressed.

Is tipping common in Turkey?

Tipping is standard and appreciated in Turkey, especially in the service industry where workers rely on gratuities. In restaurants, a tip of 5–10% is customary and should be left in cash, as most card machines do not have a tip function. You should also consider leaving a small tip of $1.18–$2.36 / ₺52–₺103 for hotel porters and rounding up the fare for taxi drivers if they have been particularly helpful.

Why you can trust this guide

Jan Křenek

35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data

Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.

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