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Turkey
Turkey offers a rich mix of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Visitors can explore Istanbul’s historic sites, such as Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar, experience the ancient ruins of Ephesus, and enjoy the unique landscapes of Cappadocia. Its diverse offerings make Turkey a captivating destination.
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Summary
Overview
Months
05. May, 06. June, 07. July, 08. August, 09. September
Vacation type
Sightseeing, Party, Nature, Family, Beach, Couple, Hiking, Mountains, Skiing
Expenses
Over 200€, <200€, <150€, <100€
Temperature
20-25°C, 25-30°C, Over 30°C
Rainfall
0-50mm
Safety
Medium
Continent
Europe, Asia, Middle East
Currency
Turkish lira
Languages
Turkish
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Turkey is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural sites.
- Spring (April to June): Features mild temperatures and blooming flowers, perfect for sightseeing in cities like Istanbul, exploring ancient ruins, and enjoying outdoor activities in regions like Cappadocia and the Aegean coast.
- Autumn (September to November): Offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it ideal for travel around Turkey, from the beaches of the Mediterranean to the historic sites of Anatolia.
- Summer (July to August) can be very hot, especially in inland areas and popular tourist destinations like Istanbul and Cappadocia. However, this is a great time for beach vacations along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts.
- Winter (December to February) can be cold and snowy in the inland and mountainous regions but is relatively mild along the coast. This season is good for winter sports in places like Erzurum and enjoying fewer tourists at historical sites.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: May-October (Warm Weather)
Budget Vacation ($40-80/day)
Accommodation: $15-30/night (budget hotels, hostels).
Food: $10-20/day (street food, local eateries).
Activities: $10-15/day (sightseeing, cultural tours).
Transportation: $5-10/day (local buses, public transport).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($80-200/day)
Accommodation: $30-70/night (mid-range hotels, boutique stays).
Food: $15-40/day (restaurants, Turkish cuisine).
Activities: $15-40/day (guided tours, archaeological sites).
Transportation: $10-20/day (local taxis, car rentals).
Other Costs: $10-20/day (souvenirs, activities).
Luxury Vacation ($200+/day)
Accommodation: $70+/night (luxury hotels, resorts).
Food: $30+/day (fine dining, upscale restaurants).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, luxury excursions).
Transportation: $20+/day (private taxis, transport services).
Other Costs: $15+/day (luxury experiences, shopping).
Off-Peak Season: November-April (Cooler Weather)
Budget Vacation ($30-70/day)
Accommodation: $15-25/night (budget guesthouses).
Food: $5-15/day (street food, casual dining).
Activities: $5-10/day (local exploration, museums).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($70-150/day)
Accommodation: $20-50/night (mid-range hotels, boutique accommodations).
Food: $10-30/day (local meals, Turkish restaurants).
Activities: $10-30/day (local tours, hiking).
Transportation: $5-15/day (local taxis, buses).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Luxury Vacation ($150+/day)
Accommodation: $50+/night (luxury resorts, high-end hotels).
Food: $20+/day (gourmet restaurants, fine dining).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, exclusive experiences).
Transportation: $20+/day (private car, luxury taxis).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping, experiences).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Istanbul
- A vibrant city straddling Europe and Asia, known for its historic sites like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.
2. Cappadocia
- Famous for its unique rock formations, fairy chimneys, and hot air balloon rides over stunning landscapes.
3. Antalya
- A coastal city with beautiful beaches, a charming old town, and a gateway to the Turquoise Coast.
4. Izmir
- A modern city with a lively waterfront, historic sites, and a blend of cultures.
5. Ankara
- The capital city, known for its museums, government buildings, and historic sites like the Atatürk Mausoleum.
Istanbul
Islands
1. Bodrum Peninsula
- Home to several charming islands like Gökçeada and Kızılada, offering beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
2. Kekova
- Known for its sunken city ruins and stunning coastal scenery.
3. Prince Islands
- A group of islands near Istanbul, including Büyükada and Heybeliada, famous for their historic buildings and car-free streets.
4. Cunda Island
- Located near Ayvalık, known for its traditional architecture, seafood, and beautiful coastline.
5. Bozcaada
- Known for its wine production, picturesque streets, and historic sites.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Cappadocia
- Discover this unique region known for its fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and hot air balloon rides over surreal landscapes of volcanic rock formations and ancient caves.
2. Pamukkale
- Visit the stunning white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters, with the opportunity to bathe in the natural thermal pools and explore the nearby ancient city of Hierapolis.
3. Oludeniz
- Relax at this famous beach known for its turquoise waters and scenic lagoon, offering opportunities for paragliding and enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
4. Mount Ararat
- Explore Turkey’s highest peak, often associated with the biblical story of Noah’s Ark, providing hiking opportunities and panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
5. Antalya
- Enjoy the beautiful beaches and clear waters of this coastal city, along with the nearby Düden Waterfalls and the scenic beauty of the Taurus Mountains.
6. Lake Van
- Visit this large and picturesque lake in eastern Turkey, known for its stunning setting, ancient churches on the island of Akdamar, and opportunities for boat trips and nature walks.
Cultural Attractions
1. Istanbul
- Explore this vibrant city straddling two continents, with highlights such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and bustling bazaars like the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar.
2. Ephesus
- Wander through the well-preserved ruins of this ancient Roman city, including the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
3. Troy
- Visit the archaeological site of ancient Troy, famous from Homer’s epic poems, with its ruins and reconstructed city walls providing insights into the legendary Trojan War.
4. Pamukkale Hierapolis
- Explore the ancient Roman city of Hierapolis, located near the travertine terraces of Pamukkale, with its well-preserved theater, baths, and ancient ruins.
5. Cappadocia Cave Churches
- Discover the rock-cut churches and frescoes in the Cappadocia region, particularly in the Göreme Open-Air Museum, showcasing early Christian art and architecture.
6. Topkapi Palace
- Visit this historic palace in Istanbul, once the residence of Ottoman sultans, featuring opulent rooms, imperial collections, and panoramic views of the Bosphorus Strait.
How to get around
1. Domestic Flights
- Domestic flights are the quickest way to travel between major cities and tourist destinations. Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, and AnadoluJet offer flights connecting cities like Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Antalya, and Cappadocia. This is the most efficient option for covering long distances.
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2. Trains
Trains operated by TCDD (Turkish State Railways) are a scenic and comfortable way to travel between cities. High-speed trains connect Istanbul, Ankara, and Eskişehir, while regional trains cover other routes. Overnight trains are also available for longer journeys.
3. Buses
- Long-distance buses are a popular and affordable option for traveling between cities. Companies like Kamil Koç, Metro Turizm, and Pamukkale Turizm offer frequent services. Buses are well-equipped and provide a comfortable travel experience.
4. Dolmuş (Shared Minibuses)
- Dolmuş are shared minibuses that operate within cities and between towns. They are a flexible and affordable way to travel short distances and reach less accessible areas. Dolmuşes run on set routes and can be a convenient option for local travel.
5. Taxis
- Taxis are available in cities and towns throughout Turkey. In major cities like Istanbul, taxis are metered, but in smaller towns, fares may need to be negotiated. Apps like BiTaksi in Istanbul can help with hailing taxis and checking fares.
6. Car Rentals
- Renting a car provides flexibility to explore Turkey’s diverse regions. It’s ideal for road trips to places like Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and Ephesus. Ensure you have a valid international driver’s license and be prepared for varying road conditions.
7. Ferries
- Ferries are useful for traveling between cities on the coast and to islands. Istanbul has ferry services connecting the European and Asian sides of the city, and ferries also operate between Istanbul and Bursa, Yalova, and the Princes' Islands.
8. Metro and Trams
- In cities like Istanbul and Ankara, metros and trams are efficient for getting around urban areas. Istanbul’s Marmaray line connects the European and Asian sides of the city, while trams cover central districts and popular tourist areas.
9. Cycling
- Cycling is becoming more popular in cities and tourist areas. Cities like Istanbul and Antalya have bike rental services and designated cycling paths. It’s a great way to explore parks, coastal areas, and city centers.
10. Walking
- Walking is ideal for exploring cities and historical sites. In cities like Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Izmir, many attractions are within walking distance of each other, allowing you to fully experience local neighborhoods and landmarks.
For the best experience, use domestic flights or trains for long-distance travel, buses and dolmuş for regional trips, and taxis or car rentals for local exploration. Ferries are excellent for coastal and island travel, while metro, trams, cycling, and walking are great for getting around cities.
What to eat
1. Kebabs
- Grilled meat skewers, often served with rice or flatbread.
2. Meze
- A selection of small dishes served as appetizers, showcasing diverse flavors.
3. Börek
- A flaky pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or minced meat.
4. Dolma
- Stuffed grape leaves filled with rice, herbs, and spices.
5. Baklava
- A sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and syrup.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Istanbul Airport (IST)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €100 to €300.
- Cheapest Months: November to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $600 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: November to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $500 to $900.
- Cheapest Months: November to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $900 to $1,500.
- Cheapest Months: November to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $300 to $700.
- Cheapest Months: November to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia need an e-Visa for tourism or business purposes.
2. e-Visa Application
- Travelers can apply for an e-Visa online before traveling, which is quick and convenient.
3. Types of Visa
- Common visa types include a e-Visa: Valid for tourism or business, allowing stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
4. Processing Time
- e-Visa applications are usually processed within minutes, but it's advisable to apply at least a few days before your trip.
5. Duration of Stay
- e-Visa holders can stay for up to 90 days; different rules may apply for other visa types.
6. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are generally required for entry, but travel insurance is recommended.
7. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
8. Proof of Funds
- Visitors may need to show proof of sufficient funds for their stay.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally not safe to drink. Bottled water is recommended.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 230V, and plug types C and F are used.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is customary, usually around 10-15%.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Turkcell and Vodafone.
6. Driving Side
- In Turkey, people drive on the right side of the road.