Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Turkey Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.
‘Suited for’ badges:
These give you a quick overview of how well a destination suits specific types of travellers, to help you find the places that match your lifestyle, preferences or travel situation.
Suited for
Turkey – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Turkish Lira (TRY) £1 ≈ TRY 66.29 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 4/5
Cashless payment is common in urban areas, but smaller vendors in rural regions may only accept cash.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary but not mandatory in Turkey. In restaurants, leaving 5-10% is typical. Tips for taxi drivers, hotel staff, and guides are also appreciated. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is not widely accepted, though it is allowed in some urban areas and tourist zones. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is banned in indoor public areas and transport, with designated outdoor smoking zones available. |
| Republic Day (October) |
Expect parades and national celebrations. |
|---|---|
| Eid al-Fitr (Varies) |
Closures and family gatherings are common. |
| Eid al-Adha (Varies) |
Similar closures and festive activities across the country. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | BiTaksi, Uber |
| Other: | Turkey offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Bargaining is common in markets, and modest dress is appreciated in religious sites. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Turkey, Turkey
Climate and season vary a lot by region: Aegean and Mediterranean coasts best for beaches May to October, Istanbul and Cappadocia best for sightseeing April to June and September to October, the east cold and snowy in winter
Ramadan: daytime food options limited in conservative areas, some restaurants closed until sunset; tourist coasts largely unaffected
Most beach hotels and boat tours on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts close November to March
Don't miss
- 🏛️ Tour the ancient ruins of Ephesus and Library of Celsus
- 🛍️ Explore the bustling Grand Bazaar in Istanbul
- 🕌 Visit the majestic Blue Mosque and its courtyards
- ♨️ Soak in the thermal terraces of Pamukkale
- 🎈 Discover fairy chimneys and hot air balloons in Cappadocia
- 🏯 Wander Sultanahmet Square and visit Hagia Sophia
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Turkey?
Turkey's appeal lies in its extraordinary cultural richness and historical depth. The country boasts some of the world's most significant archaeological sites like Ephesus, architectural marvels such as the Hagia Sophia and natural wonders like Pamukkale's white travertine terraces. The cuisine is exceptional, the bazaars are mesmerizing and the coastal areas offer pristine beaches alongside ancient ruins. With its blend of European and Asian influences, Turkey provides a unique cultural experience unlike anywhere else. However, travelers should be aware of certain challenges. The southeastern provinces near the Syrian and Iraqi borders should be avoided due to security concerns. Tourist scams can occur in popular areas, particularly in Istanbul, so remain vigilant. Summer temperatures can be extremely hot, especially in July and August when they can exceed 40°C in some regions. While major tourist destinations are generally safe, it's advisable to check current travel advisories before visiting.
🏙️Cities & Regions
-
1
Istanbul
A crossroads of continents, this historic city offers a blend of Ottoman architecture and Byzantine heritage. Grand mosques, bustling bazaars and the iconic Blue Mosque define its skyline, while the Golden Horn provides scenic waterfront views. -
2
Antalya
Coastal city on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, known for its historic old town, Roman ruins and modern resorts. The climate is warm year‑round, offering sandy beaches, clear waters and a mix of Ottoman architecture with contemporary amenities. -
3
Göreme National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site in central Turkey, famous for its fairy chimneys and underground cities. The park features ancient cave dwellings, vibrant hot air balloon rides over unique rock formations and historic monasteries nestled within a surreal landscape of volcanic tuff. -
4
Ankara
A blend of Ottoman heritage and modern Turkish culture, this city offers historic mosques, bustling bazaars and a vibrant arts scene. Its central location makes it a gateway to Anatolia’s natural landscapes and nearby coastal resorts. -
5
Izmir
Modern port city on Turkey's Aegean coast, Izmir offers a mix of historic sites and vibrant markets. Its waterfront promenade hosts lively cafés, while nearby ancient ruins and beaches provide cultural depth and leisure opportunities. -
6
Bodrum
A popular resort town on Turkey’s Aegean coast, Bodrum offers a mix of historic sites and vibrant nightlife. The ancient castle overlooks turquoise waters, while nearby beaches provide sun, water sports and relaxed cafés for visitors. -
7
Bursa
A former Ottoman capital known for its thermal springs and historic mosques, this city sits at the foot of Mount Uludağ. It offers a mix of traditional bazaars, modern shopping centers and scenic mountain views. -
8
Alanya
This Turkish coastal gem features dramatic cliffs and the historic Alanya Castle. While summer crowds swell the beaches, visitors seeking tranquility should explore the quiet inland valleys or visit during shoulder seasons for a more authentic experience. -
9
Side
A Mediterranean resort town on Turkey’s southern coast, Side offers a long sandy beach, clear turquoise waters and a compact historic center featuring an ancient theater, Roman baths and the 4th-century Temple of Apollo. The climate is warm and dry year‑round. -
10
Pamukkale
White terraces of mineral‑rich thermal waters cascade down limestone cliffs, forming a surreal landscape that has attracted visitors since Roman times. Nearby Hierapolis offers ancient ruins and hot springs, while the surrounding Anatolian countryside provides quiet villages and historic sites.
🏯Places worth seeing
🎡Places for activities
🏞️Natural landmarks
🛍️Shopping
🎈Events
-
Istanbul Film Festival (April)
-
Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival (June-July)
-
International Istanbul Music Festival (June)
-
Cappadox Festival (May)
-
Mesir Macunu Festival (April)
-
International Izmir Festival (June-July)
-
Whirling Dervishes Festival (December)
-
Istanbul Biennial (September-November)
-
Istanbul Jazz Festival (July)
-
International Antalya Film Festival (October)
Popular travel destinations in Turkey
Knowledge before you go
- Carry passport always; police checkpoints common in cities.
- Avoid southeast near Syria/Iraq borders due to terrorism risks and military activity.
- Watch for pickpockets in Istanbul markets and public transport; use money belts.
- Book licensed taxis or use apps like BiTaksi to avoid scams and route overcharges.
How to travel to Turkey
Most international visitors arrive via air at major airports in Istanbul (Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gökçen), Ankara, Izmir or Antalya. Istanbul serves as the main hub with connections worldwide. Turkey is also accessible by land from neighboring countries, though avoid border crossings near Syria and Iraq. Ferries connect Greek islands to Turkish coastal cities and cruise ships dock at ports like Istanbul, Kuşadası and Bodrum. As of March 2025, many nationalities can obtain an e-visa online before arrival.
Access summary
- Istanbul: Fly to IST/SAW from Europe/Asia; metro to city.
- Antalya: Fly to AYT charters from Europe; buses to resorts.
- Izmir/Cappadocia: Fly to ADB/ESB; domestic from IST.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Turkey
Turkey offers accommodations for every budget, from luxury resorts along the Mediterranean coast to boutique hotels in historic buildings. In Istanbul and major cities, international hotel chains provide familiar comforts, while cave hotels in Cappadocia offer unique experiences. Budget travelers can find hostels in tourist areas and traditional pensions (family-run guesthouses) provide authentic stays. Coastal areas have all-inclusive resorts popular with families. Prices vary by season, with coastal regions being more expensive during summer months.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
Swandor Topkapi Palace
Zeyn Otel Istanbul
Megasaray WestBeach Antalya
Windsor Hotel Convention Center Istanbul
Akra Antalya
ISG Sabiha Gokcen Airport Hotel
Concorde De Luxe Resort Lara Antalya – Prive Ultra All Inclusive
Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Istanbul City Center
Dosso Dossi Hotels & SPA Golden Horn
Demiray Hotel & Spa Old City
How to get around Turkey
Turkey has an extensive transportation network. In major cities like Istanbul, public transit includes metros, trams and buses, while dolmuş (shared taxis) provide affordable transportation between neighborhoods. For intercity travel, Turkey has an excellent bus network with comfortable coaches connecting most towns and cities. The high-speed train network is expanding, currently connecting major cities like Istanbul, Ankara and Konya. In tourist areas, taxis are plentiful but confirm the price or ensure the meter is used to avoid overcharging.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in Turkey are around 54% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend a lot less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to TRY) is 62% better than in recent years. That means travelling now is a lot cheaper compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
Turkey is generally safe for tourists in popular areas, but avoid the southeastern provinces near Syria and Iraq. Exercise caution in crowded places to prevent pickpocketing. Be wary of common scams targeting tourists, particularly in Istanbul. Always check current travel advisories before visiting.
Health & Medical
Turkey has excellent healthcare facilities in major cities, comparable to Western standards. Private hospitals in tourist areas often have English-speaking staff. Visitors need travel insurance covering at least $30,000 in healthcare costs. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues.
Accessibility
Accessibility varies widely across Turkey. Major hotels and shopping malls in Istanbul and tourist areas offer good accessibility, but historical sites, ancient ruins and older areas often have uneven surfaces, steps and limited facilities for mobility-impaired travelers.
Tap water
Tap water is generally safe in major cities but may taste different due to chlorination. Most tourists prefer bottled water, which is inexpensive and widely available. In rural areas, stick to bottled or purified water.
Packing recommendations for Turkey
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
especially for summer
🚰
Reusable water bottle
👕
Light, breathable clothing
for varying temperatures
🪰
Insect repellent
summer months
🧣
Scarf
for women
🧼
Hand sanitiser
🩱
Swimwear
🧕
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees
for visiting mosques
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
👒
Sun hat
especially for summer
📃
Travel insurance
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
Type F plugs
🩺
Prescription medicines
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
🛂
Passport
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