Image: Hot air balloons flying over Cappadocia, Turkey. (photo via TPopova/iStock/Getty Images Plus) (TPopova / iStock / Getty Images Plus)
Image: Hot air balloons flying over Cappadocia, Turkey. (photo via TPopova/iStock/Getty Images Plus) (TPopova / iStock / Getty Images Plus)
Turkey Today: December 12, 1:56 PM 43°F Overcast Clouds

Turkey Travel Guide 

During the 15th and 16th centuries, the Ottoman Empire rose to prominence as a significant world power. Its reign lasted 600 years, and there are still many glimpses into this culture. 

Now modern-day Turkey, this mountainous coastal land is becoming a popular tourist attraction. Boasting some of the best beaches in the Middle East, famous outdoor bazaars, and exotic foods, you’ll soon see why millions of tourists flock here. 

Before you head off on your Turkish adventure, find out all you need to know in our concise travel guide to Turkey.

Metros and bus services run throughout the country, and we found the public transportation system in general both reliable and affordable. 

Turkey’s rideshare service, called BiTaksi, operates similarly to Uber. Get the app on your IOS or Android device. It's widely used in Istanbul and Ankara.

Even in smaller villages, we managed to get around with ease. At least one dolmus (shared taxicab or minibus) passes through daily. 

 

     

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Important Things To Know

Currency 

The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira. 

Euros are accepted in most tourist hubs.

National Languages

Turkish is the official language of the country. Arabic, Kurmanji, and Zazaki are spoken by a minority. A small percentage of the population can speak English, especially in the tourist centers of Istanbul and Antalya.

Climate And Weather

Turkey has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters.

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Treasures of Turkey Guided Tour (Photo Credit: Insight Vacations)

Dress Code

Conservative dress is preferable. Both men and women should keep their knees, shoulders, and midriffs covered. No revealing clothing will be tolerated.

Although Islam is the official religion, Turkey is officially a secular country. Therefore, female tourists do not need to wear hijabs or headscarves but must cover their heads if entering a mosque. 

Men and women may wear western-style swimsuits on beaches. Nudity, however, is illegal. 

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When To Visit Turkey

Ephesus, Turkey
Ephesus, Turkey (Photo via Noreen Kompanik)

The best time to visit Turkey is in April/May and September/October during their warmer seasons. 

We discovered that winter is not the best time for a Turkish vacation due to the cold and wet weather. However, traveling off-season is more affordable. 

Best Places To Stay In Turkey

The Hittite Way, Anatolia, Hattusa, Lion Gate, Turkey
The Lion Gate southwest of Hattusa along the Hittite Way in Anatolia, Turkey. (photo via daphnusia / iStock / Getty Images Plus) (Photo Credit: (photo via daphnusia / iStock / Getty Images Plus))

  • Antalya, the southern coast’s largest city, is the crown jewel of the Turkish Riviera. Often overlooked by tourists, it has much to offer on a Turkish vacation. 

The Lycian Way, the longest trekking trail in the country, is Antalya’s greatest attraction. This long coastal walking trail includes historical sites dating back to the Lycian Empire. 

  • Antalya is one of our favorite places to stay in Turkey. It has some of the best restaurants, bars, and family-friendly activities too. The beaches are some of the best in the country. 

Situated in the Denizli Province, the town of Pamukkale is home to the famous Pamukkale Thermal Pools. And nearby you’ll find a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the world-famous ancient city of Hierapolis. 

Located in the River Menderes valley, this ancient site enjoys a temperate climate most of the year. Various watersports and other fun activities are available in the surrounding areas. 

But relaxing in the thermal spring waters of Pamukkale, surrounded by milky-white terraces of travertine limestone deposits, was one of the highlights of our stay. 

  • Alanya’s sandy shores attract thousands of visitors each year. With sunshine year-round, top hotels, beautiful beaches, and other tourist attractions, we loved the laid-back vibe here. 

You’ll find a buzzing nightlife, fantastic restaurants, and epic shopping amongst the cultural sites.

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Laurence Pinckney

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Agent At Home

Helping leisure selling travel agents successfully manage their at-home business.

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Agent Specialization: Group Travel

Laurence Pinckney

Laurence Pinckney

CEO of Zenbiz Travel, LLC

About Me