Travel advice for Turkey
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Turkey
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Where should you go? When’s the best time to visit? How do you get around? This guide covers everything you need to know—picking the right season, finding great places to stay, and making the most of Turkey’s food, history, and culture. Here’s how to plan a trip to Turkey, one step at a time.
When to do this: 4-6 months before (6+ months if traveling June-August)
Planning a trip to Turkey can feel like a lot, but breaking it down into small steps makes it much easier. I would start by making a simple planning calendar and assign yourself one task per week. This will give you time to research without getting overwhelmed. Another great way to stay organized is by keeping a Google Doc or notebook with separate sections for transportation, accommodation, activities, and budget and filling it gradually.
It can also be helpful to look at other Turkey itineraries to get an idea of how many days makes sense. See our 7 day and 10 days itineraries.
Decisions to make:
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are really the best times to visit Turkey. The weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller, and it’s nice to visit Turkey’s cities and historical sites without extreme temperatures or long lines.
In April, Istanbul bursts with tulips, while October in Cappadocia brings some of the best scenery of the year. If you're heading to the coast, places like Antalya and Bodrum stay warm well into November.
July and August can be tough months to visit. Temperatures inland, especially at historical sites like Ephesus, can exceed 104°F ( 40°C), and daytime sightseeing can be uncomfortable. Coastal areas get packed with both international and local tourists, which in turn leads to higher prices and limited accommodation options. Even in Istanbul, the combination of heat and peak-season crowds at the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque can make visiting feel overwhelming.
Goreme in Turkey © AdobeStock
Turkey can fit a range of budgets. Istanbul and coastal resort towns are generally more expensive, while inland cities like Konya and Kayseri tend to be more affordable. Cappadocia falls somewhere in between.
If you want to see Turkey’s highlights without feeling rushed, you’ll want to plan for at least 10 days. That will give you time for the perfect length for a trip to Istanbul — around three to four days — plus 3 days in Cappadocia and 2–3 days at either an ancient site like Ephesus or a coastal destination like Antalya.
If you can stretch your trip to 14–16 days, even better. This would mean a trip where you can take things at a more relaxed pace, add stops like Pamukkale’s surreal travertine pools or the Mediterranean coastline, and really soak in the food, history, and culture without constantly being on the move.
You could easily spend weeks exploring Turkey without running out of things to do. But if you have at least 2.5–3 weeks, pairing it with Greece or Jordan can work well. The Greek Islands connect easily to Turkey’s Aegean coast, while Jordan’s ancient sites—like Petra—complement Turkey’s rich history. That said, if you have less than two weeks, I’d recommend focusing entirely on Turkey. There’s so much to see, and sticking to one country means you’ll spend less time dealing with logistics and more time actually enjoying your trip.
Vintage tram on the Taksim Istiklal street in Istanbul © Shutterstock
When to do this: 4-6 months before
This is the fun part—brainstorm everything you’d love to see and do in Turkey. One of the easiest ways to keep track of ideas is by creating a custom Google Map, dropping pins for every landmark, restaurant, or experience that catches your eye. If you’re traveling with a group, try a shared group chat or a Notion page where everyone can add their must-sees. Getting all the ideas on the table early makes it much easier to plan an itinerary that keeps everyone happy.
Turkey has everything from Mediterranean beaches to lunar-like valleys, ancient ruins to buzzing bazaars. Here are my top three best places to visit in Turkey:
Cappadocia, Turkey © Shutterstock
In Turkey’s cities you’re sure to find ancient monuments standing alongside modern cafes and traditional bazaars next to stylish boutiques. If it’s your first time in Turkey, these cities should be on your list:
Istanbul, Grand Bazaar © Shutterstock
Turkey’s landscape is incredibly varied, with volcanic rock formations, alpine lakes, and thermal springs spread across the country. Here are some of the most interesting natural spots worth visiting.
Vibrant Pamukkale in Turkey © Suksamran1985/Shutterstock
Turkey has a mix of long-distance treks and shorter hikes, with coastal trails and high-altitude routes through the mountains.
These are some of my favorite “deep cuts." These are harder to get to, but are less known to tourists and worth the trek.
Konyaalti sand beach and Taurus mountains in the early morning light, Antalya, Turkey © Shutterstock
When to do this: 3-6 months before
Sorting out admin tasks early can save you a lot of stress later. Things like visas and travel insurance might not be the most exciting part of trip planning, but getting them right can make or break your experience.
Get started on:
Most travelers need an e-visa, which you can get online from the official Turkish government website (evisa.gov.tr). It’s a simple process—usually takes less than 24 hours—and costs around $60 USD, though the price depends on your nationality.
Citizens of the US, UK, and most EU countries can apply for an e-visa that’s valid for multiple entries over 180 days, allowing stays of up to 90 days at a time. But if you’re arriving by cruise and staying less than 72 hours, you don’t need a visa at all.
Visa rules can change, so always check the official website to confirm what applies to you before you go.
There aren’t any mandatory vaccines for entry, but you should make sure your routine shots (MMR, DPT, and flu) are up to date. The CDC and WHO recommend hepatitis A and typhoid for most travelers, especially if you’ll be eating street food or visiting smaller towns.
Turkey has solid healthcare, especially in big cities, but good travel insurance is still a must—make sure it covers medical emergencies, just in case.
Dilek Peninsula National Park in Turkey © Shutterstock
When to do this: 2-4 months before
Planning your route through Turkey early gives you a big advantage—cheaper domestic flights and better chances of booking accommodations in popular spots before they fill up. The way you travel between destinations will shape your experience. Taking an overnight train, for example, saves both time and money on accommodation, while domestic flights let you maximize time at each stop. One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is trying to cram in too much without considering actual travel times.
Decisions to make:
Turkey has a solid transportation network with plenty of options. Domestic flights connect major cities efficiently, intercity buses (otobüs) are comfortable and affordable, and the high-speed train (YHT) is expanding.
In cities, Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir have reliable metro systems, and shared minibuses (dolmuş) are everywhere. If you want more flexibility—especially in places like Cappadocia or along the Mediterranean coast—renting a car can be a good move. Roads are in great shape, and signs are in both Turkish and Latin script, making navigation easy
For trips over 500km, domestic flights are usually the best bet. Turkish Airlines and Pegasus have frequent, affordable routes between major cities. The high-speed train is also a great option for routes like Istanbul–Ankara (4.5 hours) or Ankara–Konya (2 hours). It’s a comfortable and scenic ride at a reasonable price.
For shorter trips or more remote areas, Turkey’s intercity bus network is extensive, with modern coaches that include onboard Wi-Fi and refreshments. Budget travelers often take night buses, but if an overnight train is available on your route, it’s usually a more comfortable way to save both time and a night’s accommodation.
Roman Floor Mosaic from Zeugma, Turkey © bumihills/Shutterstock
When to do this: 3-4 months before
Booking your big-ticket items early—flights, accommodations, and any must-do experiences—makes a huge difference. It’s the best way to lock in better prices and avoid missing out, especially for special stays like Cappadocia’s cave hotels or Istanbul’s boutique spots in historic districts.
Make sure that you aren’t booking based purely on price without factoring in transportation or seasonal events, which can turn what seems like a great deal into a logistical headache.
At this stage:
For the best prices on international flights, you’ll want to aim to book around 3–4 months in advance. Turkish Airlines has the widest selection of direct routes to Istanbul, and if you have a choice, fly into Istanbul Airport (IST) rather than Sabiha Gökçen (SAW)—IST is better connected to the city.
If you’re traveling in the shoulder seasons (March–May or September–November), you’ll usually find lower fares, and flying midweek tends to be cheaper. Sign up for price alerts across multiple platforms, and check if Turkish Airlines is running stopover programs—they sometimes offer free hotel stays for long layovers in Istanbul.
Cumalikizik, Turkey © Shutterstock
Here I'll go over some quick suggestions, but if you're looking to dive deeper into the subject, be sure to see our Turkey accommodation guide.
Each neighborhood in Istanbul offers a different experience. For a deeper look, see our guide to Istanbul’s neighborhoods.
If you're visiting during Ramadan or major festivals, you might want to consider booking a refundable rate, as prices can fluctuate. No matter where you stay, prioritize places near a metro or tram stop to make getting around easier.
Sleeping in a cave hotel is a Cappadocia must—these rock-carved rooms are historic but outfitted with modern comforts. The best areas to stay:
For peak season (April–October), book well in advance. If you’re staying in a cave hotel, ask for a room deeper in the rock—they naturally regulate temperature better. Many hotels advertise balloon-viewing terraces, but double-check before booking if that’s important to you.
Turkey’s coast has everything from all-inclusive resorts to small, family-run guesthouses.
If beach time is a priority, look for places with private beach access or beach club partnerships, since public beaches can get packed in peak season.
Beach as known Gizli Liman or Ugurlu in Turkish at Gokceada, Turkey © Shutterstock
When to do this: 2–3 months before
Booking key activities in advance guarantees your spot for high-demand experiences like hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia or a hammam session at one of Istanbul’s historic bathhouses. It also helps shape your itinerary—locking in time-sensitive activities first makes it easier to plan the rest of your days around them.
The timing of your bookings can make or break your experience. For example, if you schedule a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus early in your trip, you can plan your sightseeing around it rather than scrambling at the last minute.
Decisions to make:
If any of these are on your list, book ahead to avoid disappointment:
Harem in Topkapi Palace, Istanbul, Turkey © AdobeStock
If you only have time for a few highlights, these are the ones I’d prioritize (or see our complete list of the best things to do in Istanbul).
Many traditions in Turkey are still part of daily life, these experiences give you a chance to take part in them firsthand.
Interior of the Hagia Sophia © Shutterstock
Food in Turkey is a mix of regional flavors, fresh ingredients, and a long tradition of cooking methods that have been refined over time. There’s far too many great dishes to list them all here, but here are some of the classics:
How to plan a trip to Turkey: eat lots of Turkish food © Shutterstock
When to do this: 1 month before
The last month before your trip is the time to take care of those small but important details that can make a big difference in your travel experience. Download offline maps and translation apps, let your bank know you're traveling, and figure out how you'll get from the airport to your first accommodation.
Decisions to make:
Getting a local SIM card in Turkey is easy and worth it for reliable service. You can buy one at the airport or at authorized dealers in city centers—just bring your passport. Major providers like Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom offer tourist packages with plenty of data for 1-2 months. If your phone supports eSIMs, that’s another good option. Wi-Fi is common in hotels, restaurants, and cafes, but having mobile data is a game-changer for navigation and translation apps.
Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (TRY or ₺). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but you’ll need cash for local markets, small restaurants, and public transport. ATMs are easy to find and work with most international cards—just make sure to notify your bank before you travel. For the best exchange rates, use banks or official exchange offices (döviz) instead of street vendors. Since the exchange rate can fluctuate, it’s smart to exchange smaller amounts as needed rather than all at once. Many tourist spots accept euros or US dollars, but you’ll get a better deal paying in lira.
The lion gate of The Hattusa, which is the capital of the Hittite Civilization, Corum, Turkey © Shutterstock
Packing for Turkey depends on where you're headed and what you plan to do, but it’s best to bring layers and comfortable shoes.
Church Redeemer Ani, Turkey © Shutterstock
Turkey is a welcoming place for families. In Istanbul, Miniaturk has a miniature version of Turkey’s landmarks, while the Grand Bazaar can be an exciting scavenger hunt. Along the Mediterranean coast, beach resorts often have kids’ clubs and shallow waters.
Breaking up sightseeing with activities like a boat trip on the Bosphorus, watching whirling dervishes, or joining a family-friendly cooking class can keep kids engaged. Many hotels have family rooms or connecting options, and Turkish food tends to have plenty of dishes that are familiar and easy for kids to enjoy.
Turkey has no shortage of upscale experiences, whether it’s staying in a cave suite in Cappadocia or taking a private yacht trip along the coast. In Istanbul, some hotels are set in restored Ottoman palaces, with scenic views and standout service.
Private guides can arrange after-hours tours of landmarks like Hagia Sophia, while historic hammams provide spa treatments in traditional marble bathhouses. Along the coast, boutique resorts have private beaches and personalized experiences. You could take a private hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia, charter a gulet for a coastal cruise, or book a cooking class with a local chef. For those interested in shopping, private viewings at carpet galleries or custom pieces from Turkish designers can also be arranged.
Overwhelmed by all the details? You're not alone. Researching and planning takes time, but with our tailor-made-trips, you can enjoy a journey designed just for you by a local expert who knows the area inside and out. Plus, you’ll have 24/7 support throughout your trip.
It’s easy to feel like you need to rush through the must-see spots, but some of the best experiences come from slowing down and savoring the quiet moments. Now that you’re all set, let go of the need to check off every box and focus on truly enjoying your time—that's the real magic. For more inspiration, check out our trip ideas gallery.
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Turkey
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written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 28.04.2025
Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.
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