Get 5% of discount using the code
MYESIMNOW5
Buy my eSIM
Trustpilot

Are you ready to discover a fascinating country, full of history, and culture? Then Turkey is the perfect destination for you! In our travel guide for Turkey, you will get everything you need to know and more, we will tell you everything from how to have an Internet connection, to how to get there, the cheapest month to travel, and the visa to enter.

Also, we will let you know everything about its gastronomy, the best places to visit, the most beautiful beaches to enjoy, where and what to buy, and even some tips and advice on cultural interests.

turkey travel guide
4.6 /5 Trustpilot star
Highly rated Based on 47.000 customer reviews on Trustpilot
Reviews avatar Reviews avatar Reviews avatar +1M
Trusted worldwide Over 1 million travelers across the globe have trusted Holafly
Unlimited data Unlimited data Limitless data plans in more than 170 destinations
Save money

With Holafly, you save +30% compared to roaming fees

Buy my eSIM

What you should know about Turkey: General information

Turkey is a country in the Middle East that extends its territory through Eastern Europe and Western Asia, you will find great diversity due to the different cultures that have coexisted in the territory throughout its history. Below, we will summarize some important information that you should take into account before traveling:

  • Weather: The weather in Turkey is Mediterranean, which means that summers are hot and dry, while winters are humid, temperate, and cool. If we talk about temperatures, they vary depending on the area of the country and the time of year, but they range from 13° C to 40° C.
  • Language: The official language is Turkish. But it is possible to communicate in English in the major tourist areas.
  • Currency: Turkish lira (TRY)
  • Time Zone: UTC+3

If you prefer to exchange your currency directly in Turkey, we tell you that one of the easiest ways to exchange currency is to use automatic teller machines (ATM), as they accept various credit and debit cards. However, it is important to note that the fees for using an ATM in Turkey can be very high.

As for exchange houses, these usually have better exchange rates than ATMs. Before exchanging your money, it is important to compare the rates and commissions of several exchange houses to decide where to make the transaction.

Be careful with scammers! Avoid exchanging your currency on the street or in unfrequented and poorly lit places.

Travel and visit Istanbul, Turkey
Travel and visit Istanbul, Turkey. Source: Unsplash.

What to take into account when traveling to Türkiye

Now that you know a little more about Turkey, it is essential to find out what you need to consider when traveling to this country. Pay a lot of attention, in our travel guide for Turkey, we will tell you everything from the visa procedures to the security measures you must follow, including some cultural tips to make your stay an unforgettable experience.

Visa

Obtaining a visa for Turkey is not complicated, as you only have to go to the Turkish embassy or consulate closest to your place of residence, or if you prefer, you can apply for the visa online through the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey.

The documentation necessary to apply for the visa varies depending on the applicant’s country of origin. However, in general, the following is required:

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Turkey.
  • Visa application form.
  • Recent color photograph, passport size.
  • Proof of accommodation in Turkey (hotel reservation or invitation letter).
  • Proof of means of support, such as bank statements or employment letters.
  • Travel insurance with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros.

Currently, the visa costs USD 51.50, and the processing time ranges from 10 to 15 business days.

 Countries that require VISA 
SpainCanadaMexico
United StatesMaltEgypt
BahamasArab EmiratesIndia
NetherlandsBelgiumSenegal
AlgeriaChinaSanta Lucia
CroatiaLatviaSurinam
EstoniaMaldivesIraq
GranadaBarbadosLibia
JamaicaDominicaPhilipines
Table about countries that need a visa to visit Turkey.

To know the complete list of countries that require a visa to enter Turkey, visit the e-visa page of the Republic of Turkey. If your country is not on the list, you are allowed to enter the country for a maximum period of 90 days.

Security

Part of our travel guide for Turkey is to ensure that you have a pleasant and memorable trip. Therefore, we want to give you the following safety tips:

  • Stay informed about the security situation in Turkey. You can do this by consulting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website of your country or the Turkish embassy or consulate in your country of origin.
  • Avoid traveling to dangerous areas, which are usually marked by local authorities.
  • Don’t walk alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
  • Beware of pickpockets and scammers! They usually operate in crowded places, such as markets and tourist sites.
  • Do not carry valuables with you when you go out. If you are carrying a camera or mobile phone, keep it somewhere safe, in an inside pocket or your backpack.
  • Do not display affection in public, as this may be misinterpreted by locals as a sign of provocation.
  • Respect local customs and traditions. This includes dressing conservatively, especially in religious matters.

Note: Remember to take out travel insurance before leaving, as this will keep you protected against any health or risk situation that may arise.

Culture

Turkey’s culture is a mix of influences from the Middle East, Europe, and Central Asia, so you will find great gastronomic, musical, artistic, and architectural diversity.

Turks are mostly Sunni Muslims, so religion plays an important role in the daily lives of Turks, which we mention so that you can be respectful and discreet while traveling around the country, especially if you enter or frequent any mosque or place of worship.

Cultural tips and recommendations for traveling to Türkiye:

  • Try delicious Turkish cuisine. We recommend dishes such as kebab, baklava, and dolma.
  • Learn some basic phrases in Turkish, as this will help you communicate with locals and avoid misunderstandings.
  • As we mentioned above, dress conservatively, meaning cover your shoulders, legs, and torso.
  • Attend a belly dance show and take part in this traditional dance that is very popular among tourists.
  • Don’t take pictures of people without their permission.
  • Avoid showing affection in public.
  • Do not drink alcohol in public during Ramadan. Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims, and on these dates, they abstain from eating, drinking, and smoking during the day.
  • Don’t speak loudly in public.
  • Avoid making obscene or rude gestures.

Internet connection

To continue with our travel guide for Turkey, we are going to tell you how to connect to the internet in this country since you must stay connected to communicate with your loved ones, translate if necessary, locate yourself through Google Maps, and even Locate places of interest and book tours with web agencies.

Currently, you can have roaming from your local operator, Pocket Wifi, or traditional SIM cards, but the main disadvantage is the high cost of these alternatives.

Holafly eSIM card for Turkey
Get your Holafly eSIM card and enjoy unlimited data during your trip.

We recommend the Holafly eSIM for Turkey since with it you can access unlimited data at 4G and 5G speed, you will have mobile data when you land, you can select the number of days in which you need connection, and in case of any problem or inconvenience, you will have 24/7 customer service in your language. In case you are visiting other countries in Europe, the European unlimited data eSIM card is an option to consider from Holafly.

The best part is that people can forget about data packages and they can buy an eSIM for the exact amount of days they are staying and still get unlimited data. This is thanks to the Holafly eSIM customization which allows you to save some extra money while still getting unlimited data. Finally, you can share data from your plan, exactly up to 500 MB per day through Hotspot!

Best dates to travel to Türkiye

Turkey is a country with very diverse weather, which varies depending on the region. In general, the weather is temperate, having warm summers and cold winters.

The best times to travel to Turkey are spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and little risk of rain.

But if what you are looking for is to enjoy Turkey in its maximum splendor, we recommend traveling during the special celebrations, which we will review below:

  • Lantern Festival (February 24): It is celebrated in Istanbul during the month of Ramadan. On this day, Muslims gather to pray and give alms, and at night, the streets of Istanbul are filled with lights and colors thanks to the lighting of lanterns that indicate the end of the holy day.
  • Eid al Fitr (April/May): It is a Muslim celebration that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan; It is celebrated for three days, during which Muslims gather to pray, eat, and give gifts.
  • Tulip Festival (April/May): Only celebrated in Istanbul during spring. The festival lasts two weeks, during which the streets are filled with tulips, and special events are organized, such as parades, concerts, and exhibitions.
  • Ashura (July): Ashura is a Muslim holiday celebrated on the tenth day of the month of Muharram. It is a day of fasting and remembrance for Muslims, as it commemorates the death of Imam Hussein, grandson of the Prophet Muhammad.
  • Victory Day (August 30): It is a day to celebrate the victory of Turkish forces over the Allied forces in the Battle of Canakkale in 1915. During that day, parades, concerts, and other activities are held throughout the country.
  • Republic Day (October 29): This day celebrates the founding of the Republic of Turkey in 1923. Parades, concerts, and other activities are held throughout the country.
  • Dervish Festival (December 17): It is celebrated in Konya, in honor of the Sufi poet and philosopher Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi. During the festival, dervishes gather to dance the whirling dervish dance, a spiritual ritual that has become a symbol of Turkish culture.
Dervish Festival, Konya
Dervish Festival, Konya. Source: Viajes de Piel.

What is the cheapest month to travel to Türkiye?

It is very important to mention when it is cheapest to travel, and that is why we recommend going during January and February. In these months, the weather is colder, but you can still enjoy the country’s tourist attractions.

Also, prices for flights, hotels, and other tourist services are usually lower in January and February.

How to get to Türkiye?

The most common way to get to Turkey is by plane, as the country has several international airports, including those in Istanbul, Ankara, and Antalya.

Next, we will explore the options for how to get to Turkey, so that you can select the most appropriate way for your budget, comfort, and location.

Getting to Turkey by car

Traveling by car to Turkey will give you the freedom to explore the country at your own pace, but this alternative is only available if you live or are in a country in Europe or the Asian continent.

If you live in Europe, you can drive to Turkey through Greece, Bulgaria, or Romania.

If you are in Asia, you can drive to Turkey through Georgia or Armenia.

Getting to Turkey by plane

The best way to travel or get to Turkey is by plane, so you must evaluate the different options offered by airlines that offer flights from your continent or city of origin. We recommend you visit websites like Skyscanner to evaluate your options.

  • United States and Canada: There are direct flights to Turkey from many cities in the United States and Canada. Airlines that offer direct flights are Turkish Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Air Canada.
  • Europe: The flight time to Turkey from Europe is usually around 3 hours and 30 minutes, so it’s pretty easy to get there. You will find direct flights with airlines such as Turkish Airlines, Iberia, Lufthansa, Air France, British Airways, Pegasus Airlines, Sun Express, and Ryanair.
  • Latin America: If you are planning to travel to Turkey by plane with a direct flight from Latin America, we recommend that you evaluate the different travel options with the following airlines: Turkish Airlines, Avianca, Aeroméxico, and LATAM.
  • Asia: You can find direct flights from the main cities of the continent, and as for the airlines that offer direct flights, we have: Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Turkish Cargo, Silk Way Airlines, MNG Airlines.
Airports in Istanbul
Airports in Istanbul. Source: Mochileros en Tailandia.

Go to Turkey by sea

Turkey has coastlines and access to the Mediterranean Sea, the Black Sea, and the Aegean Sea, making it a popular destination for maritime tourist transport.

The most common way to reach Turkey by sea is by ferry, departing from Greece, Italy, Cyprus, Bulgaria, and Georgia, for example.

Ferries are usually cheaper than flights, but the journey is much longer. Ferry travel time to Turkey from Greece is usually around 24 hours, from Italy around 48 hours, from Cyprus around 12 hours, and from Bulgaria around 20 hours.

Discover the exquisite Turkish gastronomy: Best destinations to try it

With our travel guide for Turkey, you can discover a world full of ancestral flavors and culinary traditions that have been forged over time, thus telling the story of each city or region. Therefore, here we will present you with the best destinations to try exquisite Turkish cuisine and its iconic national dishes:

  • Istanbul: In this magical city, you will immerse yourself in a world of aromas and flavors that date back to imperial times. Try dishes such as Kebab and Baklava, while exploring historic markets such as the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, where you will find a variety of spices, dried fruits, and tempting sweets.
  • Ankara: In the capital, a feast of homemade and very authentic dishes awaits you. Try Manti, Etli Ekmek, Pilav, SImit, Muhlama and Ayran.
  • Bursa: On the Silk Road you can try Iskender Kebab, a mixture of tender meat, pita bread, and tomato sauce, Lokma, fried dough balls covered in honey, Ciğ Börek, Turşu Çorbası soup, and ice cream Turkish.
  • Gaziantep: If you are a lover of intense and spicy flavors, in Gaziantep you will get this and much more. Enjoy Antep Kebab, Pistachio Baklava, Beyra Soup, Menengiç Coffee and Katmer.
  • Adana: Experience the famous Adana Kebab, a combination of minced lamb seasoned with red chilies and served with bread. Also try Bici Bici, a refreshing drink based on fruits and spices.

Top 10 best cities to visit in Turkey

Get ready to discover the best cities in Turkey. Discover everything from its historical charm to its modernity, as each corner has its history and personality.

  • Istanbul: The magical metropolis that unites two continents. Istanbul is a perfect fusion between the past and the present, so we invite you to explore the majesty of the Blue Mosque, the Galata Bridge, and the Grand Bazaar. Don’t forget to take a Bosphorus cruise for a unique experience.
  • Ankara: Turkey’s capital combines contemporary energy with the richness of its heritage. Visit the impressive Atatürk Mausoleum, walk through the lively Gençlik Park, and explore the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations for a journey through history.
  • Antalya: In this city, beaches with crystal-clear waters and buildings with ancient history blend perfectly. Relax on the sandy beaches, explore the ruins of the ancient city of Perga, and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the Old City.
  • Bodrum: We could say that it is a paradise for lovers of the sun, the sea, and parties. Rest on its golden beaches, visit the famous Castillo de San Pedro, and enjoy the lively nightlife in trendy bars and clubs.
  • Izmir: This city brims with vitality and culture around every corner. Explore the Kemeraltı Bazaar, relax on the Kordon Promenade, and visit the ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus for a journey back in time.
  • Cappadocia: You will find a land of unique rock formations and unforgettable balloon rides. Explore underground cities, admire fairy chimneys, and marvel at the panoramic view from above.
  • Troy: The legendary city of Troy will fill your heart with mythology and history. Explore the ruins of the ancient city and discover hidden treasures at the Troy Museum.
  • Bursa: A haven of tranquility surrounded by mountains and nature. Enjoy the thermal baths, explore the gardens of the Great Green Mosque, and ride the cable car for stunning views.
  • Konya: It is the home of the whirling dervishes and their deep spiritual heritage. Visit the Mevlana Mausoleum, explore the Konya Museum, and immerse yourself in local culture.
  • Trabzon: Located on the Black Sea coast, Trabzon offers natural beauties that are difficult to match. Explore Sumela Monastery, stroll through Atatürk Square, and enjoy Black Sea cuisine.
Ankara
Ankara. Source: Lyon Aeroport.

What are the best 10 beaches in Turkey?

From hidden coves to endless stretches of coastline, this country has different beach paradises to explore. Here are the 10 best beaches in Turkey:

  • Ölüdeniz Beach: We could say that it is a turquoise lagoon surrounded by mountains, famous for having crystal clear waters and close to the Mariposa Beach National Park. It is a popular destination for swimming, diving and sunbathing
  • Patara Beach: It is located in the province of Antalya, on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. The beach is famous for its fine white sands, and also for housing the ancient ruins of the city of Patara.
  • Kaputaş Beach: This is one of the locals’ best-kept secrets. To access this beach, you will have to climb a steep staircase, but we assure you that each step is worth it because when you reach the bay, you will discover its wonderful crystal-clear waters.
  • Çıralı Beach: The beach is famous for its ancient ruins, which include an ancient temple dedicated to Apollo and also the famous Fairy Chimneys. You can enjoy the beach during the day, or if you prefer, marvel at the beauty of the fireflies at night.
  • İztuzu Beach: This beautiful stretch of sand is home to many sea turtles. İztuzu Beach is known for its environmental care, and also for its magnificent natural environment.
  • Kabak Beach: For lovers of nature and tranquility, Kabak is a bohemian paradise hidden between cliffs. It is the perfect place to disconnect from the city and connect with nature.
  • Mermerli Beach: It is a beach with white sands and crystal clear waters. It is located in the province of Antalya, on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, and is famous for having shallow waters; ideal for families with children.
  • Cleopatra Beach: Legend says that Cleopatra and Mark Antony swam in these waters, turning this beach into a place full of history and myths like no other. Currently, it is one of the most beautiful in the world and is preferred by Europeans.
  • Konyaaltı Beach: This urban beach in Antalya is perfect for families and those looking to be surrounded by amenities. Here you will find restaurants, bars, and water activities, making it excellent for a fun-filled day.
  • Altınkum Beach: The name Altınkum means golden sand and that is what you will get here. It is a perfect place to relax in the sun and enjoy the serenity of the Turkish coast.
Ölüdeniz beach
Ölüdeniz beach. Source: prensaiberica.es

Best destinations for cultural tourism in Turkey

Each place will take you on a journey through the country’s history and cultural heritage, letting you explore the layers of influences and traditions that have shaped Turkish identity over the centuries.

  • Istanbul: The city offers a myriad of monuments, mosques, and palaces that reflect the rich Ottoman and Byzantine history. Visit the Hagia Sophia Mosque, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, Galata Tower, Spice Bazaar, Gülhane Park, and Constantinople Hippodrome.
  • Ephesus: Ephesus is an archaeological treasure that will transport you to ancient Rome. Walk through its cobblestone streets and explore the Grand Theatre, the Library of Celsus, and ancient temples, as they tell the story of a city that flourished at the height of the Roman Empire.
  • Cappadocia: Take advantage of your stay and live the experience of flying in a hot air balloon through the valleys of rock formations. Explore places like Pigeon Valley, Love Valley, Ihlara Valley, and the Göreme Open Air Museum, but also visit underground cities like Derinkuyu and Kaymakli.
  • Konya: This city is a center of spirituality, as it is the home of the poet and philosopher Rumi. Visit the Mevlana Mausoleum, Selimiye and Azizia Mosques, Alaaddin Hill Park, Konya Meram Bağları and Lake Tuz. This destination will allow you to explore the depth of Islamic philosophy and spirituality.
  • Ankara: The capital of Turkey is home to museums and monuments that will take you through the country’s history. Visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, Atatürk Mausoleum, Anıtkabir Monument, Ankara Castle, Kocatepe Mosque, Göksu Parkı and Dikmen Valley.
  • Troy: Explore the ruins of the ancient city and discover the myths that inspired poets and writers throughout the centuries. The legends of the Trojan War come to life in this evocative destination.
  • Antalya: It is not only a coastal paradise but also an excellent cultural destination. Take an excursion to cities like Olympos and Aspendos; Visit the ruins of Faselis, or Termessos, visit the street of umbrellas, the Clock Tower, the Yivli complex, and the port of Antalya.
  • Mardin: Explore its cobbled streets, mosques, and stone houses, while enjoying panoramic views of the Mesopotamian plain. We recommend going to places like Zinciriye Medresesi, Kasımiye Madrasah, Mardin Castle, Forty Martyrs Church, Şehidiye Cami, Göbekli Tepe and Şehidiye Medresesi.
  • Safranbolu: Visiting this destination is like taking a walk through an open-air museum, where you can experience the life and architecture of the Turkey of yesteryear. Visit places like Hıdırlık Tepesi, Eski Safranbolu Çarşısı, Saat Kuleleri Parkı, Crystal Glass Terrace viewing point, and Tarihi Saat Kulesi.
  • Nemrut: Mount Nemrut houses the giant heads of the gods and kings of ancient times. In addition to this wonder, you can explore the communist-era architecture in nearby cities, which tells a different story of the region.
Cappadoccia, Turkey
Cappadoccia, Turkey. Source: Unsplash.

Where to practice ecotourism in Turkey?

Turkey is a country that has great diversity in natural landscapes, offering excellent opportunities to practice ecotourism. Below, we will summarize the best destinations for this purpose:

  • Göreme National Park: Located in Cappadocia, it is an important destination for ecotourism. The park has a variety of rock formations, including fairy chimneys, valleys, and caves. It is also a valuable center of rock art, with more than 4,000 churches and monasteries excavated in the rock.
  • Beydağları Olympus National Park: This national park, located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, is ideal for all those looking to go hiking, camping, or kayaking. The park has a mountainous landscape, full of pine and cedar forests, and within its fauna, animals such as bears, lynx, wolves, and deer.
  • Yedigöller National Park: This national park, located in the Central Anatolia region, is a major destination for hiking, camping, and fishing. The park has seven glacial lakes, surrounded by pine and spruce forests.
  • Kaçkar Dağları National Park: This national park, located in the Eastern Anatolia region, is a major destination for activities such as hiking, mountaineering and rafting. The park has a mountain range with peaks that reach 5,000 meters high.
Göreme National Park
Göreme National Park. Source: detectahotel.com

Moving in Turkey: How does transportation work?

Transportation in Turkey is quite cheap. To move around in Turkey, you can use the following options:

  • Bus: Buses are the most popular form of transportation in Turkey. They are economical, and comfortable and offer a wide network of routes that connect the main cities and towns in the country.
  • Trains: Trains are also a good option for traveling in Turkey. They are faster than buses and offer a more comfortable service; However, Turkey’s railway network is more limited than the road network.
  • Taxis: Taxis are a convenient option for traveling in the main cities of Turkey. However, taxis can be very expensive, especially in tourist areas.

Also, there are many mobile apps used to get around Turkey, such as:

  • Moovit: Provides information about public transport in the main cities of Turkey. The application shows the schedules of buses, trams, subways, and other means of public transport. It also allows users to plan and book trips.
  • İETT: Just like with Moovit, you can check the schedules of buses, trams, and subways in Istanbul.
  • EGO: It is exclusive to the city of Ankara since in it you can view the schedules of the different means of public transport in the city.
  • BiTaksi: It is a taxi application that allows users to call a taxi with just one click. The app shows the location of the nearest taxi and the estimated time of arrival.
  • Uber: This is a popular travel booking application with private drivers. It has the same operation as worldwide.
  • Waze Carpool: This lets users share their vehicle with other users traveling in the same direction.

What to buy in Turkey?

Turkey is a paradise for shopping lovers. In this country, you will find everything from authentic souvenirs to fashion items and unique crafts in the world. So, to help you a little in the process, here you will find a list of what to buy in Turkey:

  • Ceramics: Turkish ceramics are known for their colorful and elaborate designs. The most famous pottery in Turkey is Iznik pottery, characterized by its floral and geometric motifs.
  • Nazar Amulets: Nazar amulets are a traditional Turkish symbol believed to protect against the evil eye. Nazar amulets are usually made of glass and are in the shape of a blue eye.
  • Lamps: Turkish lamps are a traditional way of lighting homes. The most common lamps are chandeliers, which are usually made of glass or metal and have floral or geometric motifs.
  • Turkish tea: It is a traditional Turkish drink served in small glasses, known for its strong flavor and dark color. The most popular blends are romantic tea, winter tea, orange tea, and the famous aphrodisiac tea.
  • Oriental sweets: Oriental sweets are an important part of Turkish cuisine, the most common being baklava, lokum, and halva. But in the bazaars, you will find small sweets of different flavors, also known as Turkish Delights.
  • Spices and perfumes: In the Grand Bazaar, you can buy hundreds of spices, herbs, and perfumes unique in the world. Best of all, if you want a personalized perfume, the sellers can prepare a special one for you.
  • Rugs: The most common Turkish rugs are kilim rugs, characterized by their geometric patterns.
  • Hamam soap: You can find them in the Grand Bazaar, which has different aromas and presentations, such as olive oil, rose, lavender, and honey. Although the most traditional are usually black or activated charcoal, as they are ideal for exfoliating the skin.
  • Textiles and clothing: You will find everything from shawls, scarves, tunics, silk garments, and traditional Ottoman clothing.
Turkish Sweets
Turkish Sweets. Source: Unsplash.

Best places to shop in Turkey

Whether you’re looking for traditional souvenirs, contemporary fashion, or unique products, you’ll find amazing treasures and items to remember your adventure in the places below:

  • Grand Bazaar, Istanbul: This is one of the most famous markets in the world, where you will find all kinds of items, from carpets and jewelry to ceramics and spices.
  • Spice Bazaar, Istanbul: Known as the Egyptian Bazaar, this place is a paradise for lovers of spices and Turkish sweets. You can also find teas, nuts, and local products.
  • Istiklal Caddesi, Istanbul: This pedestrian street in the heart of Beyoğlu is a paradise for modern shopping lovers. Here you will discover fashion shops, boutiques, galleries, and bookstores.
  • Kadıköy, Istanbul: If you are looking for a more local and bohemian atmosphere, Kadıköy in the Asian sector of Istanbul is ideal. Its streets are full of vintage shops, design stores, and flea markets.
  • Antalya Bazaar: Located in the coastal city of Antalya, this bazaar offers a mix of Turkish and exotic products, such as spices, jewelry, and textiles.
  • Alacati Bazaar: This gem on the Aegean coast is known for its cobblestone streets and fashion, ceramics, and antique shops.
  • Kayseri Carpet Bazaar: If you are interested in purchasing an authentic Turkish carpet, Kayseri is one of the best places, as its products are hand-woven.
  • Kapalıçarşı, Bursa: Known as the Grand Bazaar of Bursa, this market offers a very diverse selection of products, including fabrics, jewelry, leather products and more. It is a quieter alternative to the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul.
  • Long Streets Market, Konya: This market is perfect for finding local products such as pottery, jewelry, and traditional clothing. Enjoy the authentic atmosphere and the opportunity to interact with local vendors.
  • Bagaçis Market, Ankara: If you are interested in antiques and vintage products, this market in the capital is an excellent option. Here you will find everything from antique furniture to rare books and unique curiosities.

What is the cheapest thing to buy in Turkey?

It is useful to know that in Turkey, they usually haggle regardless of the cost of the item. But what is the cheapest thing to buy in Turkey? We suggest buying spices, tea, Turkish delight, ceramics and small tiles, refrigerator magnets, postcards, scarves, handkerchiefs, figurines or art figures, decorative notebooks, beach clothes, and dried fruits.

Also, you can buy small souvenirs, such as bracelets, keychains, pendants, or accessories such as handmade earrings.

Frequent questions about traveling to Turkey

What is the best time to travel to Turkey?

The best time to travel to Turkey is during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October). But if you are wondering what the high season is in Turkey, we tell you that it is during the summer (June-August) when the weather is warm and sunny, but temperatures can reach 40° C.

How much does it cost to travel to Turkey?

The cost of traveling to Turkey will depend on several factors, such as the time of year, the tourist destination, and the travel style. In general, Turkey is a relatively accessible country, so a 7-day trip to Turkey could cost between USD 500 and USD 1,000, including accommodation, food, and tourist activities. (To this cost must be added the price of the flights depending on the city of origin)

What is the best way to get to Turkey?

The easiest way to get to Turkey is by plane. Istanbul Atatürk International Airport is the main airport in Turkey and receives flights from all over the world.

What is the best city to visit in Turkey?

Istanbul is the largest and most cosmopolitan city in Turkey, as it is located on two continents, Europe and Asia, offering a wide variety of tourist attractions. Other important cities in Turkey are Ankara, the country’s capital; Cappadocia, a region known for its unique rock formations; and Ephes, an ancient Greek city.

What should I bring to Turkey?

The clothes you should bring to Turkey will depend on the time of year you travel. In general, it is advisable to wear comfortable, light clothing, but it is also important to wear a hat and dark glasses to protect yourself from the sun.

What are the best things to do in Turkey?

1. Visit the historical cities of Istanbul, Ankara and Efes.
2. Explore the natural wonders of Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and Göreme National Park.
3. Enjoy Turkish cuisine.
4. Practice water sports on the coasts of the Mediterranean Sea and the Aegean Sea.

Brenda Beltrán

Brenda Beltrán

Content Manager

Hi, I'm Brenda Beltrán. I'm passionate about travel, technology, and video games. In 2019, I started my career as a journalist in entertainment and technology. Then, I discovered that content creation was my true calling. Now, at Holafly, I'm dedicated to sharing travel tips and experiences that will make your adventures unforgettable. ✈️ Hola, soy Brenda Beltrán, apasionada por los viajes, la tecnología y los videojuegos. Desde mis inicios en 2019 como periodista en entretenimiento y tecnología, descubrí que la creación de contenido era mi verdadera vocación. Hoy, en Holafly, me dedico a compartir consejos y experiencias de viaje para que cada una de tus aventuras sean memorables.✈️

Read full bio