Travel Tips
Turkey
Istanbul's mosques, Cappadocia's balloons and the Turquoise Coast show why Turkey is a true crossroads of cultures.
- Capital
- Ankara
- Currency
- Turkish lira (TRY)
- Language
- Turkish
- Best overall
- April to June and September to October
- Emergency
- 112
- Electricity
- 230V, plug types C and F
Top Destinations
Rules vary by passport. Some visitors can enter visa-free and others need an e-visa. Use only the official e-Visa website. Passport validity rules vary, so check the requirements before you book.
Read about visa on arrival, e-visas and online registration →
Still have specific visa questions?
Spring and autumn are ideal. Summer is great for the coast, but very hot inland. Winter is cold and can be snowy in Cappadocia.
Not sure which month suits your trip?
Istanbul
Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar.
Cappadocia
Fairy chimneys, cave hotels and hot air balloons.
Ephesus
One of the best-preserved Roman cities anywhere.
Pamukkale
White travertine terraces beside the ruins of Hierapolis.
Antalya
A Mediterranean old town and a base for the Turquoise Coast.
Need help choosing where to go?
- Days 1 to 4 Istanbul
- Days 5 to 7 Cappadocia, by air
- Days 8 to 9 Pamukkale
- Day 10 Ephesus
- Days 11 to 13 Antalya
Want a route planned around your dates?
- Domestic flights are cheap and save long bus trips.
- Long-distance buses are comfortable. Use an Istanbulkart for local transit.
Not sure how to get between places?
- Inflation changes prices quickly, so check recent costs. Carry some lira for small shops and the bazaars.
- Buy an eSIM before you fly or a local SIM on arrival, so maps work from day one.
Questions about costs, cash or SIM cards?
- Kebabs in many regional styles.
- Baklava: honey and nut pastry.
- Turkish breakfast, a spread of many small dishes.
Want tips on what and where to eat?
- Dress modestly at mosques, and avoid prayer times.
- Check government advice on regions near the Syrian border.
Planning a trip to Turkey?
Book a one-on-one call and bring your questions about your route, costs and visa.
Information on this page may change, so please confirm the latest visa and entry requirements and your government travel advice on official websites before you travel.