Know these things before traveling to Turkey!
Where Europe meets Asia, you’ll find the perfect mix between the two… Turkey. You may know Turkey from the countless images on social media of Cappadocia, its cave homes and a sky full of hot air balloons. However, there is so much more to Turkey than what meets the eye! The versatile landscapes and colorful culture are some of the reasons why Turkey is one of the most traveled to countries in the world. These Insider Tips will help to get a look into what you should definitely know before traveling to the beautiful country of Turkey, so that your trip is smooth sailing!
10. Pick the areas you want to explore in advance
Turkey is a big country and there are lots of beautiful places to visit, so do not set unrealistic expectations for your trip. For example, the beautiful white sedimentary rock pools of Pamukkale are located about an 8-hour drive away from Cappadocia. If you want to make your trip the ultimate Turkey road trip, visiting both of these places is of course possible. Do keep in mind the time you have to spend, though, so that your itinerary doesn’t become too packed.
Areas to visit:
- What to experience in Istanbul & area?
- The Blue Mosque
- Belgrad forest
- Art district Balat
- Local street food scene (try Turkish ice cream!)
- Grand Bazaar
- What to experience on the Turquoise Coast?
- Ruins of Patara
- Lycian Way (hike sections of the trail, or the entire 500km trail, known as one of the best long-distance hiking trails)
- Book a cruise along the Turquoise Coast starting from Demre
- Go for a swim at Duden Waterfalls
- Visit the Pamukkale baths
- What to experience in & around Cappadocia?
- Go on a hot air balloon ride (of course)!
- Walk around Goreme National Park
- See the Cappadocia cave homes
- Visit the Fairy Chimneys
- Take the Red Valley Hike at sunset
The many areas of Turkey each have their unique thing to offer to their visitors, and one area isn’t better than the other. Check out The Most Beautiful Places in Turkey for more ideas on where to visit! If you’re a lover of vibrant culture and street life, Istanbul is where its at! If you love an outdoorsy adventure… hit up the Turquoise Coast. There really are options for every kind of traveler. Make sure you have some like-minded TravelMates to join in on the adventure.
9. You’ll need to cover up when visiting some places
Always carry around a light jacket or something to cover up with if you want to visit the beautiful mosques of Turkey. The famously known Blue Mosque in Istanbul requires for you to cover up your shoulders and knees. In addition, women should cover their hair with a scarf. However, Turkey is overall a fairly liberal travel destination, so especially in big cities you will be fine to wear what you like otherwise. Some more religious cities such as Konya or the area of Eastern Turkey are slightly more conservative, though, so do keep this in mind when visiting.
8. The weather varies… a lot
You may think that its hot in Turkey all the time. You’re right, the summers do get very hot, sometimes unbearably so. That is why the best times to visit Turkey is usually during shoulder seasons in April, May, September or October. You’ll also find that prices are generally cheaper during these off-seasons. The weather between Eastern and Western Turkey is also very different, so take a look at the weather forecast depending on what area you plan on traveling to. Unless you’re planning on visiting in the middle of summer, it just might be a good idea to take a set of warm clothes with you!
7. It’s a good idea to have some cash on you
The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish lira and using this for payment in Turkey is always the best option. Touristic shops will accept most currencies, but using the local currency will help you to avoid any issues with conversion rates. There may also be extra fees if you use another currency or a credit card. ATMs are known as bankamatik and these can be used to withdraw cash. Try to have smaller denominations of cash- it makes paying easier and you’re not at risk of losing as much money… The main point is, always have cash on you! You never know which restaurants or shops will deny using a credit or debit card, so its better to play it safe!
6. Check if you need a visa before traveling to Turkey
Traveling from some countries to Turkey will require for you to have a visa. There are currently 78 countries from which you can travel to Turkey (including most European countries) from for a three-month period within a time span of six months without a visa. Some countries, such as the United States, must register for an e-Visa before arrival for a small fee. Make sure to check the regulations for your country!
5. You might want to download a language app
You might be shocked when traveling to Turkey that not very many people can speak English. In fact, only 17% of the population there know how to speak English, and an even smaller percentage know how to speak it well. In Istanbul you might be able to find French and German speakers, but it is a good idea to know some basic Turkish vocabulary. There are many apps that allow you to speak in English or your own language and help you to translate what you are saying to the language you want. These might be of use in Turkey! We also have a basic guide to at least 10 Turkish words you should know:
- Merhaba = Hello
- Selam = Hi
- Günaydın = Good morning
- İyi akşamlar = Good evening
- Güle güle = Goodbye
- Evet = Yes
- Hayir = No
- Teşekkürler = Thank you
- Afedersiniz = Excuse me
- Ne kadar? = How much?
4. Check out the Turkish street food scene
One hot insider tip is to definitely not miss out on the Turkish street food scene. Turkey can be described as a food-lovers paradise, and food, even at restaurants, is very cheap. Street vendors with all kinds of snacks, especially in cities, are everywhere… you will certainly never go hungry when visiting Turkey! Turkey is also well-known for its variety of vegetarian options. Some of the top street foods to try include:
- Kokerec (spiced sheep intestines)
- Simit (most recognized street food- a sesame seed bagel treat)
- Kumpir (baked potatoes)
- Borek (traditional dish filled with cheese, spinach, meat or potatoes)
- Midye (stuffed mussels- found especially in coastal towns)
3. The traffic scene is something to be aware of
If you are planning on renting a car in Turkey, be aware that driving in cities can get chaotic. Although in general driving is totally possible and relatively easy to follow, driving in Turkey might not exactly be what you’re used to. With narrow alleyways and unexpected turns, you really have to pay attention when driving. Undoubtedly, though, driving is the best option to get around Turkey to see the most of what the country has to offer. However, public transportation options in Turkey are great, and you can be sure to see lots even for opting for this option! As a pedestrian as well, keep in mind your surroundings and look both ways before crossing the road! In case you haven’t heard it enough, stay safe! 😉
2. WiFi often requires a Turkish number
The use of WiFi in public places often requires for you to have a Turkish number for registration. Of course at your accommodation you will usually have internet connection, but it might become an issue when you’re out and about. Get a Turkish SIM card or have a friend with a Turkish number to help you out!
1. Turkey is heaven for shoppers!
Whether at the Bazaar in Istanbul or at a local market, the Turkish goods are simply beautiful. If you’re into shopping, do take advantage of this opportunity! What’s even better is that the prices are nothing to complain about. Copper crafts, paintings, ceramics, books, rugs, jewelry, pillowcases, books… you name it! In addition, haggling or bargaining it traditional in Turkey, so you can really try to get a bargain for yourself on all the cool stuff.
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Spices -
Chandeliers -
Soaps
Turkey is a unique destination and hopefully you have the chance to experience this beautiful country, either by leading a trip there yourself or joining a ready-planned trip with some like-minded friends! We hope that these Insider Tips give you a glimpse into how to prepare for your trip before you set sail. Güle güle!
