Turkey
Forget everything you thought you knew about travel. Turkey is a whole different world, a place that’ll ignite all your senses. Imagine the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul – a maze of colours, the air thick with spices, the call to prayer echoing through the centuries-old walls. Or picture sailing the Turquoise Coast, so clear you can see ancient ruins beneath the water, and the sun glinting off whitewashed villages. And oh, the smell of Turkish coffee will follow you everywhere!
This is a place where East and West collide in the most beautiful way. You’ve got incredible mosques like the Hagia Sophia, Byzantine churches turned Ottoman masterpieces, and then there’s Cappadocia – like something out of a fairytale, with valleys full of those weird and wonderful ‘fairy chimney’ rock formations. And whether you’re in a bustling city or a tiny mountain village, you’ll be blown away by how friendly and welcoming Turkish people are.
This blog by The Travel Tinker is your ticket to getting off the beaten track and finding the heart of Turkey. Think of it as those recommendations from the cool friend who’s been there and knows all the best spots. Let’s start planning!
Best Time To Visit
It depends on what you want to do! Here’s the lowdown:
Spring (April-May) & Fall (September-October): My top picks! Temperatures are pleasant, the crowds are smaller than in summer, and it’s perfect for exploring cities and enjoying outdoor activities without the intense heat.
Summer (June-August): Beach season in full swing! Great if you want to soak up the sun on the coast, but expect crowds and higher prices, especially in popular spots. Inland, it can get seriously hot.
Winter (November-March): If you don’t mind the cold, it’s a quieter, cheaper time to visit. Istanbul dusted with snow has a certain charm. Plus, if you love skiing, Turkey has some decent resorts!
Remember: Turkey’s a big country, so the weather varies a lot depending on where you’re headed. Always check the forecast for your specific destinations!
What To Expect
Capital: Ankara
Population: 86 million (2023)
Language: The official language of Turkey is Turkish. However, you will also find that Kurmanji, Arabic, English, and Zazaki are also widely spoken.
Currency: The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: You can use your credit and debit cards in most places in Turkey, especially Visa and Mastercard. American Express might only work in fancy hotels or restaurants. For market stalls and smaller shops, it’s best to have some cash on hand. Don’t worry, finding an ATM is easy – just try to stick to the ones attached to actual banks. They’re safer, and you’ll usually get a better exchange rate compared to those random standalone ATMs.
Plugs: In Turkey, the standard plug is type F, the standard voltage is 220 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: Understandably, recent news about Turkey might have you a bit worried about safety. While it’s always smart to stay up-to-date on travel advisories (check your government’s website!), popular tourist destinations like Istanbul, Antalya, and Cappadocia remain generally safe for travelers. Just use the same common sense precautions you would at home – be aware of your surroundings, don’t flash valuables, etc. It’s always a good idea to check current travel recommendations before you go, as situations can change.
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Turkey and reasons to visit Turkey.
Search for your Perfect Hotel
Find the Cheapest Flights
Book Tours and Purchase Tickets
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Turkey
This labyrinth of a market is a feast for the senses. Bargain for carpets, spices, and colourful ceramics, soak in the lively atmosphere, and maybe grab a Turkish coffee to keep you going.
This is pure magic! Soaring over those otherworldly rock formations at sunrise is an unforgettable experience. Feels like you’re on another planet.
Walk the same marble streets as ancient Romans in these incredibly well-preserved ruins. Imagine the bustling port city it once was – it’ll send shivers down your spine.
4. Bathe Like a Sultan in a Turkish Bath (Hamam):
Scrub, steam, massage…it’s a super relaxing way to experience a centuries-old tradition. A must-do for feeling rejuvenated after busy days of sightseeing!
5. Feast on Turkish Delights:
From grilled kebabs and fresh seafood to sweet, sticky baklava and strong Turkish coffee, your tastebuds are in for a treat. Don’t be afraid to try little hole-in-the-wall places – that’s often where you find the best food.
Turkey Travel Costs
Accommodation
- Hostel Dorms – ₺300–600 / €9–18 / £8–15 / $10–20
- Hostel Private Rooms – ₺700–1,500 / €22–48 / £19–40 / $24–50
- Budget Hotels – ₺1,000–2,500 / €32–80 / £27–68 / $35–85
- Airbnb Private Rooms – ₺800–1,800 / €25–58 / £22–50 / $28–65
- Airbnb Apartments – ₺2,000+ / €65+ / £55+ / $70+
- Campsites – ₺300–800 / €9–25 / £8–22 / $10–28
Transportation
- Local Bus/Metro Ticket – ₺15–30 / €0.50–1 / £0.40–0.85 / $0.55–1.10
- City Transport Day Pass – ₺60–120 / €2–4 / £1.70–3.40 / $2.20–4.50
- Intercity Bus Ticket (Istanbul to Cappadocia) – ₺500–1,000 / €16–32 / £14–27 / $18–35
- Train Ticket (Istanbul to Ankara, one-way) – ₺400–800 / €13–26 / £11–22 / $14–28
- Taxi (per km) – ₺10–20 / €0.30–0.65 / £0.25–0.55 / $0.30–0.70
- Car Rental (per day) – ₺1,000–2,500 / €32–80 / £27–68 / $35–85
Food
- Budget Meal – ₺80–200 / €3–7 / £2.50–6 / $3.50–8
- Mid-Range Restaurant Meal – ₺250–600 / €8–20 / £7–17 / $9–22
- Coffee – ₺50–100 / €2–3 / £1.50–2.50 / $2.20–3.50
- Beer (0.5L draft) – ₺100–200 / €3–7 / £2.50–6 / $3.50–8
Activities
- Museum Entry (Hagia Sophia, Ephesus, etc.) – ₺200–500 / €7–16 / £6–14 / $8–18
- Guided Tours – ₺1,000–3,000 / €32–95 / £27–80 / $35–100
- Boat Tours (Bosphorus, Antalya, Fethiye) – ₺750–2,000 / €24–65 / £21–55 / $26–70
- Hot Air Balloon Ride (Cappadocia) – ₺3,500–6,500 / €110–210 / £95–180 / $120–225
Turkey Suggested Budgets
Backpacker – ₺900 / €28 / £24 / $30 Per Day
A backpacking budget in Turkey allows you to stay in hostel dorms, eat at budget-friendly local restaurants or cook some meals, and use affordable public transportation. Free and low-cost activities like exploring historic districts, relaxing at public beaches, and taking free walking tours help keep costs low.
- If you plan to drink, add an extra ₺100–200 (€3–7 / £2.50–6 / $3.50–8) per day.
- Save more by using local buses, buying groceries from markets, and visiting free attractions like mosques and public parks.
Midrange – ₺2,000 / €65 / £55 / $70 Per Day
A mid-range budget allows for a private room in a budget hotel or Airbnb, dining out at mid-range restaurants, and visiting major historical sites like Ephesus and Topkapı Palace.
- This budget also includes a couple of guided tours, short taxi rides, and day trips to nearby attractions.
- Enjoy a comfortable yet affordable experience, balancing cultural exploration with leisure.
Upscale – ₺4,500+ / €145+ / £125+ / $160+ Per Day
A luxury budget ensures a stay in boutique hotels or high-end Airbnbs in prime locations like Istanbul’s Sultanahmet or Bodrum’s seaside resorts. You can dine at fine restaurants, indulge in Turkish baths, and enjoy premium experiences like private boat cruises or hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia.
- This budget also covers seamless transportation with taxis, car rentals, or domestic flights for a hassle-free trip.
- Experience Turkey’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture in style and comfort.
Turkey Money-Saving Tips
Turkey offers a mix of affordable and luxury experiences, making it a great destination for budget travelers and high-end explorers alike. If you’re looking to stretch your budget while enjoying Turkey’s rich culture, history, and stunning landscapes, here are some essential money-saving tips:
1 – Bring a Reusable Water Bottle – Tap water in Turkey is safe in major cities but may taste different due to high chlorine levels. Instead of constantly buying bottled water, bring a reusable bottle with a built-in filter to stay hydrated and save money.
2 – Take Free Walking Tours – Cities like Istanbul and Ankara offer free walking tours that provide insight into Turkey’s history and culture. Guides work for tips, so it’s a budget-friendly way to explore major landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.
3 – Cook Your Own Meals – Eating out can add up quickly, especially in tourist-heavy areas. Shop at local markets like the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul or the farmers’ markets in Antalya and cook in your hostel or Airbnb to save on food costs.
4 – Stay with Locals via Couchsurfing – Couchsurfing is popular in Turkey and offers not just free accommodation but also a chance to experience genuine Turkish hospitality and get insider tips on affordable places to visit.
5 – Bunk in Hostels – Turkey has plenty of budget-friendly hostels from Hostelworld, especially in Istanbul, Cappadocia, and coastal cities like Bodrum. Dorm-style accommodations are great for saving money and meeting fellow travellers. I recommend Booking.com for hotels etc.
6 – Walk Everywhere – Many Turkish cities, especially Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district, are very walkable. Skip taxis and enjoy free sightseeing while exploring historic streets, mosques, and lively bazaars on foot.
7 – Use Public Transportation – Instead of taxis, take Istanbul’s Metro, trams, and ferries, which are much cheaper. In smaller cities, dolmuş (shared minibuses) are an affordable way to get around.
8 – Enjoy Free Outdoor Attractions – Turkey offers incredible free natural attractions, from Pamukkale’s thermal terraces to sunset views over Cappadocia and the stunning beaches of Ölüdeniz.
9 – Travel Off-Season – Visit Turkey during the shoulder seasons (April-May & September-November) when flights and accommodations are cheaper, and tourist crowds are smaller, allowing for a more relaxed and budget-friendly experience.
10 – Use Overnight Buses for Long Distances – Instead of expensive domestic flights, take overnight buses with companies like Metro Turizm or Pamukkale to save on both accommodation and transport costs.
How to Get Around in Turkey
Turkey has a well-developed and affordable transportation system, making it easy to navigate cities, travel between regions, and explore its stunning landscapes. Here’s an updated guide to getting around efficiently and affordably.
Walking
Many Turkish cities, especially Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya, have pedestrian-friendly areas. In Istanbul, walking is the best way to explore neighborhoods like Sultanahmet, Karaköy, and Beyoğlu, where historical sites, markets, and restaurants are clustered together.
Public Transportation
Turkey’s public transport network is affordable, efficient, and widely used. Major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir have metros, trams, and buses, while smaller cities rely on minibuses (dolmuş).
- Metro & Trams – Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir have well-connected metro and tram systems. A single ride costs ₺15–25 / €0.50–0.80 / £0.40–0.70 / $0.55–0.90, while Istanbul’s daily pass costs around ₺90 / €3 / £2.50 / $3.50.
- Buses & Dolmuş – City buses and dolmuş (shared minibuses) are cheap and flexible. Dolmuş fares range from ₺10–25 / €0.30–0.80 / £0.25–0.70 / $0.35–0.90, and they stop at demand.
- Istanbulkart & City Transport Cards – In Istanbul, get an Istanbulkart (₺70) to enjoy discounted fares across metro, trams, ferries, and buses. Other cities have similar transport cards.
Airport Transfers
- Istanbul Airport to City Centre – The Havaist Airport Bus costs ₺80–120 / €2.50–4 / £2–3.50 / $3–4.50 and takes 60–90 minutes. Taxis cost around ₺700–900 / €22–30 / £19–27 / $25–35.
- Sabiha Gökçen Airport to City Centre – The Havabus shuttle is ₺80–100 / €2.50–3.50 / £2–3 / $3–4.
- Other Airports – Major cities like Antalya, Cappadocia, and Izmir have shuttle buses or trams connecting the airport to downtown areas.
- Recommended Airport Transfer: Welcome Pickups
Taxis & Ride-Sharing
- Taxis in Turkey start at ₺30–50 / €1–1.60 / £0.90–1.40 / $1.10–1.80, with ₺10–20 per km.
- Always insist on the meter or use ride-hailing apps like BiTaksi to avoid overpaying.
- Uber is available in Istanbul but mainly operates with licensed taxis.
Intercity Travel (Buses & Trains)
- Buses (Otobüs) – Long-distance buses are affordable and comfortable with companies like Metro Turizm, Pamukkale, and Kamil Koç. A bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia costs ₺500–1,000 / €16–32 / £14–27 / $18–35and takes 10–12 hours.
- Trains – Turkey’s high-speed train (YHT) network connects Istanbul, Ankara, Konya, and Eskişehir. A one-way train ticket from Istanbul to Ankara costs ₺400–800 / €13–26 / £11–22 / $14–28 and takes 4–5 hours.
Car Rental
- Renting a car is ideal for exploring regions like Cappadocia, the Turquoise Coast, and Eastern Turkey. Prices start at ₺1,000–2,500 / €32–80 / £27–68 / $35–85 per day.
- Roads are well-maintained, but city traffic, especially in Istanbul, can be heavy.
- Recommended Car Rental: DiscoverCars Turkey
Cycling
- Turkey isn’t the most bike-friendly country, but coastal towns like Antalya and Fethiye have dedicated bike paths.
- Bike rentals cost ₺100–300 / €3–10 / £2.50–8 / $3.50–11 per day.
Whether you’re traveling by bus, train, or ferry, Turkey offers affordable and efficient ways to explore its diverse landscapes.
Travel Resources
Get Your Free Travel Starter Kit!
Like, follow, subscribe...
*Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I only recommend products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported.