Türkiye FAQ

Many nationalities need an e-Visa or a visa. Some travellers can use a valid Schengen, UK or US visa for e-Visa eligibility. Check the official Republic of Türkiye e-Visa portal for your nationality before booking.

April to June and September to October for cities, culture and hiking. May to October for beaches. December to March for ski resorts and winter city breaks. Cappadocia is beautiful in spring and autumn.

A first trip: 7 to 10 days for Istanbul + Cappadocia or Istanbul + Aegean. Two weeks lets you add the southeast, the Black Sea or the Lycian coast.

Major tourist areas are generally safe. Use normal precautions: licensed taxis, well-lit areas, attention to belongings, and avoid unlicensed guides. Check current travel advice for your country.

Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a light scarf for mosques, a universal adapter (Type C/F), and layers for mountain or plateau areas. Modest clothing helps in conservative regions.

No special vaccinations are usually required for standard tourist routes. Check your country's travel-health advice and routine vaccinations.

Tap water is generally safe in cities, but many people drink bottled water. In rural areas, bottled water is safer.

Turkish lira (TRY, ₺). Cards are widely accepted; carry cash for markets, small villages and tips.

Some tourist businesses accept them, but the rate is usually poor. Pay in lira whenever possible.

Approximate: budget €35 to 60, mid-range €80 to 150, comfort/luxury €200+. Istanbul, Bodrum and Çeşme are the most expensive. Verify current prices.

Istanbul: metro, HAVAIST/HAVABÜS buses, taxi or private transfer. İzmir, Ankara, Antalya and other cities have airport buses, metro/tram or taxis. Use licensed taxis and agree on the meter.

Yes for the Lycian coast, Cappadocia valleys, the Black Sea and eastern Anatolia. Not necessary in Istanbul, İzmir or Ankara. An international driving permit may be required.

Türkiye has an extensive coach network. Overnight buses are common; book via apps or at the otogar. Allow extra time for transfers.

High-speed trains connect Istanbul to Ankara to Konya to Eskişehir. Scenic routes include the Doğu Express to Kars. The İzmir to Selçuk line is useful for Ephesus.

Availability varies. BiTaksi and local taxi apps are common in Istanbul and other cities. Always check the plate and meter.

Istanbul ferries connect the Bosphorus, the Asian side and the Princes' Islands. Seasonal ferries connect Bodrum, Marmaris and Çeşme to Greek islands. Book ahead in summer.

5 to 10% in restaurants, small amounts for hotel staff, guides and drivers. Check if service is included.

In bazaars and markets, yes. In restaurants, hotels and fixed-price shops, no.

Yes, foreign visitors can claim VAT refunds at participating shops. Keep receipts and complete the forms at the airport.

Buy a local SIM/eSIM from Turkcell, Vodafone or Türk Telekom; passport registration may be required. Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafés.

Type C/F, 230 V, 50 Hz. Bring a universal adapter.

Cover shoulders and knees; women may need a headscarf (often provided). Remove shoes. Avoid visiting during prayer times if you are not praying.

Yes. Some restaurants may adjust hours, and evening meals (iftar) are busy. Be respectful and avoid eating/drinking in public during fasting hours in conservative areas.

Yes in licensed restaurants, bars and hotels. Some conservative areas have limited availability. Do not drink and drive.

Major museums and hotels are improving, but historic sites and old towns often have cobblestones and stairs. Confirm directly with venues.

Yes. Turks are generally welcoming to families. Use child seats in cars, carry water and sun protection, and plan shorter sightseeing days.

Pets are allowed in many hotels and some restaurants, but rules vary. Check with your accommodation and airline; health certificates may be required.

112 (ambulance/fire/police in many areas), 155 (police), 156 (gendarmerie), 110 (fire), 177 (forest fire), 176 (tourism hotline).

Pharmacies (eczane) are widespread; hospitals in major cities have English-speaking staff. Travel insurance is recommended. Carry prescriptions and essential medicines.

Generally yes in cities. Use bottled water if you are sensitive or in rural areas.

Türkiye is seismically active. Familiarise yourself with safety advice, know your hotel's evacuation route, and follow official instructions.

"Merhaba" (hello) or "günaydın" (good morning). A handshake is common; close friends may kiss on both cheeks.

Yes when entering a home or mosque. Look for shoe racks or plastic bags at the entrance.

Yes at most sites, but ask before photographing people, and do not photograph military sites. Some museums prohibit flash or tripods.

Fake guides, inflated taxi meters, "closed" shops that redirect you to a partner, and unsolicited shoe-shine or card tricks. Use licensed services and be cautious with strangers who approach you.

Accepting tea is a friendly gesture. Use normal caution in unfamiliar situations.

A traditional Turkish bath. Expect separate men's/women's sessions or times, marble slabs, scrubbing and relaxation. Prices and etiquette vary; choose a reputable establishment.

A pass for many state museums and sites. It can save money if you visit several museums. Check current coverage and duration.

Many accept cards, but some small sites may prefer cash. Carry a small amount of lira.