Your Ultimate Guide: Unforgettable Turkey Travel Tips For First-Timers
So, you’re off to Turkey? Buzzing for you! My first time was chaotic! But, over the years, I’ve zigzagged across the country, from the craziness of Istanbul to sleepy coastal spots you’ve probably never heard of, and along the way, I picked up a bunch of tips I wish I’d known sooner. This isn’t one of those stiff, brochure-style guides. Think of it more like advice from a mate who’s been there, done that, and still dreams of Turkish breakfasts. 🇹🇷
When to Go Turkey: Timing is Everything ✈️
Deciding when to visit can totally shape your entire trip. Let’s be honest, we all love a bit of sunshine, but Turkey’s climate is incredibly diverse, so let’s break it down. One person might love the heat, the another may not! It’s all about what YOU like!
Spring (April-May): This is the sweet spot for me. The weather is just gorgeous—warm enough for t-shirts while you explore ancient ruins, and the countryside is bursting with colourful flowers. It’s the perfect time to visit before the peak summer crowds take over. 🌸
Summer (June-August): Hello, sunshine! ☀️ This is prime time for beach lovers and for sailing along that stunning turquoise coast. Just be ready for some serious heat, especially down south, and bigger crowds in the hotspots.
Autumn (September-October): Much like spring, autumn is a winner with warm, sunny days and fewer people. The sea is still warm enough for a swim, and it’s a fantastic time for sightseeing without breaking a sweat.
Winter (November-March): If you’re not a fan of crowds and you’re watching your pennies, this is your season. Coastal towns are mild and quiet, while cities like Istanbul can be chilly and wet. But honestly, seeing Cappadocia covered in a blanket of snow? Absolutely magical. ❄️
🔹Tinker’s Tip: The holy month of Ramadan can sometimes affect opening hours for shops and restaurants, so it’s just something to be aware of when you’re booking your dates.
🗺️ Guide to Turkey: Best Time to Visit Turkey: Seasons & Tips
Flights from Trip.com (Turkey go-to!)
Getting Around Turkey: Navigating Like a Pro 🚆
Turkey is a massive country, but thankfully, it’s incredibly well-connected. I’ve tested the transport system thoroughly, and here’s what worked best for me.
Domestic Flights: For long distances, like getting from Istanbul to Cappadocia, flying is a massive time-saver. Airlines like Turkish Airlines and Pegasus have frequent, affordable flights. ✈️
Intercity Buses: The bus network is modern, surprisingly comfortable, and will get you almost anywhere. It’s a very local and budget-friendly way to see the country.
Dolmuş: You have to try these shared minibuses—they’re a Turkish institution! They run on set routes in towns and cities; you just flag one down and tell the driver where you want to get off. So easy and cheap!
Car Rental: If you’re dreaming of that perfect coastal road trip or want to find those off-the-beaten-path gems, renting a car in Turkey gives you ultimate freedom. The main roads are generally in great shape.
Trains: The high-speed train network is getting better and better, connecting big cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Konya. It’s a smooth and efficient ride. A rail pass is highly recommended if you’re doing more than one journey!
💡 Good to know: In big cities like Istanbul, use an app like BiTaksi. It works just like Uber and gives you peace of mind that you’re getting a fair fare.
🗺️ Turkey Related: Istanbul Travel 101: Your Essential Guide for First-Time Visitors
Our Google Maps Legends
Get lifetime access to our endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. You simply open the Google Map on your device and all our pins are at the touch of your fingertips.
Money Matters: Let's Talk Lira 💶
The currency you’ll be using is the Turkish Lira (TRY). While you might see Euros or US Dollars accepted in super touristy spots, you’ll always get a better deal paying in the local currency. Trust me on this one.
Cash is still King: Seriously. While your credit card will work fine in most hotels and restaurants in the cities, you’ll need cash for those amazing market finds, for taxis, and for tipping. 💵
ATMs: You’ll find them everywhere. It’s almost always better to pull Lira from an ATM when you arrive rather than exchanging a load of cash at the airport. The rates are just better.
Budgeting: To give you a rough idea, I’d plan for around £40-£50 / €47–€59 or $52–$65 USD per person per day. That should comfortably cover your food, transport, and a bit of sightseeing.
🔹 Pro Tip:Always choose to be charged in Turkish Lira at card machines or in shops, not your home currency. That “Do you want to pay in GBP?” screen might look helpful, but it usually comes with a rubbish exchange rate. Go local to get the most bang for your buck (or pound). 💸
🗺️ More Guides to Turkey: Why This Cheap Mediterranean Beach City Is The Perfect Spring Holiday
Tipping in Turkey: No Stress, No Fuss
Tipping is customary and always appreciated in Turkey. Here’s a quick cheat sheet so you know what’s what:
| Service | What’s Normal |
| Restaurants | 10-15% of the bill is standard for good service. |
| Taxis | Just rounding up the fare is a common and nice gesture. |
| Hotels | A little something for porters and housekeeping is a lovely touch. |
| Tour Guides | Around $10-15 USD / €8–€13 (or £7–£11) per person for a day’s tour is the norm. |
💡 Fact: The local economy has had its ups and downs, so your tips really can make a difference to the people who work so hard to make your holiday special.
🗺️ Recommended Read: Travel Cards vs Cash: Which One Should You Carry?
Finding Your Perfect Turkish Stay: Accommodation Tips 🏡
Turkey has a brilliant range of places to stay, no matter your budget or vibe. You’ll find everything from fancy all-inclusive resorts to gorgeous boutique hotels and cheerful, budget-friendly guesthouses.
Boutique Hotels: In places like Cappadocia, you absolutely have to stay in a “cave hotel.” It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 🤩 Use TripAdvisor to find the best hotels and the best reviewed! Or use Booking.com below!
Coastal Resorts: The Aegean and Mediterranean coasts are packed with amazing resorts if you’re looking for sun, sea, and relaxation.
City Apartments: In cities like Istanbul, renting an apartment can make you feel like a local and gives you the freedom to make your own breakfast.
- Hostels: For hostels I just always use Hostelworld Turkey. Dorms or privates always available!
✋🏼 Good to know: As of 2023, Turkey has a 2% tourist tax. It’s usually wrapped into your accommodation price if you book ahead, but it’s worth double-checking so there are no surprises at check-in.
Use Booking.com for your perfect Turkish stay!
Savouring Turkey: A Foodie's Paradise 😋 Kebabs & Delights!
Let’s be real, a huge reason to visit Turkey is the food! It’s a culinary journey that’s so much more than just kebabs (though they are delicious!).
Turkish Breakfast (Kahvaltı): Get ready to feast! A traditional Turkish breakfast is a massive, beautiful spread of cheeses, olives, fresh bread, jams, honey, eggs… I could go on. It’s an event, not just a meal.
Mezes: These small appetiser plates are at the heart of Turkish dining. They are perfect for sharing and trying a bit of everything.
Street Food: Don’t you dare be afraid to try the street food! From simit (a yummy sesame-covered bread ring) to balık ekmek (grilled fish sandwiches by the water), it’s all delicious and super affordable.
Turkish Tea & Coffee: Tea (çay) is the symbol of Turkish hospitality and you’ll be offered it everywhere. And Turkish coffee? It’s strong, rich, and a whole cultural experience in a tiny cup. ☕
🔹 Pro Tip: To get a real taste of Turkey, step away from the main tourist strips. I found some of my best and most memorable meals in small, unassuming, family-run restaurants.
✨ Further guides to this gorgeous country: Turkish Delights: Sweets, Coffee, and Indulgence
Recommended Tours and Tickets in Turkey
Our Google Maps Legends
Get lifetime access to our endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. You simply open the Google Map on your device and all our pins are at the touch of your fingertips.
Talk the Talk: Turkish Phrases to Charm the Locals 💬
You really don’t need to be fluent in Turkish, but honestly, learning just a few basic phrases will make a huge difference. People’s faces light up when you try, and it can lead to some wonderful, funny interactions.
| English | Turkish |
| Hello | Merhaba (Mur-Ha-Bah) |
| Thank you | Teşekkür ederim |
| Please | Lütfen (Loot-fen) |
| Yes / No | Evet / Hayır |
| How are you? | Nasılsınız? |
| The bill, please | Hesap lütfen |
💡 Fun Fact: Turkish has a version of “thank you” for almost every level of gratitude, from a casual “sağ ol” to the ultra-polite “teşekkür ederim.” There’s even “teşekkürler” if you’re feeling breezy. It’s basically a language that lets you say thanks… with style! 😄
Cultural Know-How: The Little Things ❤️
Turkish culture is all about hospitality and respect. Keeping a few of these little things in mind will make your interactions so much smoother and more meaningful.
Greetings: A simple, friendly handshake is the usual greeting. With friends, it’s common to kiss on both cheeks.
Respect for Elders: Older people are deeply respected in Turkish society. It’s a lovely gesture to offer them your seat on the bus or tram.
Invitations: If you’re invited into a Turkish home, it’s a huge honour. Always accept any offer of tea or food—turning it down can seem a bit rude.
Body Language: Try to avoid pointing your finger directly at people; it’s not considered polite. Also, be aware that some hand gestures we use might mean something different in Turkey!
✨ Emoji Moment: Show your gratitude with a simple 😊 and a heartfelt “Teşekkür ederim.” It goes a long way!
✋🏼 Be a culture master: Travel Etiquette: Your Guide to Being a Charming Globe-Trotter
Beyond the Obvious: Discovering Turkey's Hidden Gems ✨
While you absolutely must see Istanbul, Cappadocia, and the coast, Turkey has so many more incredible places tucked away.
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Pamukkale: Known as the “Cotton Castle,” its bright white terraces and thermal pools are surreal and stunningly beautiful.
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Ephesus: Walk through one of the best-preserved ancient Roman cities on the planet. It’s like stepping back in time.
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The Black Sea Coast: This is a totally different side of Turkey. Think lush green mountains, tea plantations, and traditional wooden houses.
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Southeastern Anatolia: For the truly adventurous traveller, this region is a goldmine of history, unique food, and a look into a more traditional way of life.
⛰️ Adventure Awaits: The best stories often come from the places you didn’t plan to visit. Stray from the usual tourist trail and you’ll find a side of Turkey that most travellers never see — raw, real, and completely unforgettable.
Safety First: Stay Smart & Secure
Turkey is a very safe country for tourists, and the kindness of the Turkish people is legendary. But, just like anywhere else in the world, it pays to be smart and take sensible precautions.
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Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Keep an eye on your bags and phone, especially in crowded spots like the bazaars and on public transport.
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Solo Female Travellers: I’ve travelled solo in Turkey and felt very safe. That said, it’s a good idea to dress a bit more modestly in conservative areas to avoid any unwanted attention.
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Scams: Just be savvy. Be wary of overly friendly strangers who offer you unsolicited help or deals that sound way too good to be true.
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Emergency Numbers: Pop this number in your phone right now: 112. It’s the central emergency number for ambulances, police, and fire services.
🔹 Peace of Mind: Registering your trip with your embassy before you go is a simple step that can be incredibly helpful if something unexpected happens.
🚨 We like to help out at The Travel Tinker: Don’t Get Done! 20 Crafty Travel Scams and How to Dodge Them
Visas: Know Before You Go 🛂
Let’s talk entry requirements because nobody likes surprises at the airport. For my fellow British citizens, the great news is you can pop over to Turkey for tourism or business for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. Just make sure your passport has at least 150 days of life left on it from your arrival date and has a spare blank page. Rules can change, so I always give the official government website a quick look before I fly. Tip: If you’re travelling from another country, you might need an e-visa. The online application is usually super quick and easy. My advice? Always use the official government portal to avoid any sneaky extra fees.
What to know How to Plan or Save for a Trip? Here are our best:
And that’s that! You will love Turkey, it’s that simple! And you’ll most likely come home with stories, tan lines, and possibly a suitcase full of ceramics. 🌍 ✨
Now, over to you…
Planning your first trip? Already been and have some tips to share? Drop them in the comments below – let’s help each other out 👇🗣️
Adventure on,
The Travel Tinker Crew 🌍✨
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Recommended Websites and Resources:
FAQs: Quick Answers to Common Qs about Turkey
Do I need a visa to visit Turkey from the UK?
Nope – not if you’re staying under 90 days within 180.
What’s the best currency to use?
Turkish Lira, hands down. Better value, less hassle.
Is it safe to drink tap water?
Stick to bottled or filtered. Better safe than sorry.
What should I wear in mosques?
Shoulders and knees covered. Ladies, bring a scarf to cover your hair.
Do I need to tip?
Yep – around 10–15% in restaurants and a bit for guides, hotel staff, and taxis is the norm.
Travel Planning Resources
Ready to book your next trip? These trusted resources have been personally vetted to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Book Your Flights: Kick off your travel planning by finding the best flight deals on Trip.com. Our years of experience with them confirm they offer the most competitive prices.
Book Your Hotel: For the best hotel rates, use Booking.com . For the best and safest hostels, HostelWorld.com is your go-to resource. Best for overall Hotel ratings and bargains, use TripAdvisor.com!
Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, check out VRBO. They consistently offer the best prices.
Car Rentals: For affordable car rentals, check out RentalCars.com. They offer the best cars, mostly brand new.
Travel Insurance: Never travel without insurance. Here are our top recommendations:
- EKTA for Travel Insurance for all areas!
- Use AirHelp for compensation claims against flight delays etc.
Book Your Activities: Discover walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more on Get Your Guide. They have a vast selection of activities to enhance your trip. There is also Tiqets.com for instant mobile tickets.
Book The Best Trains: Use Trainline to find the most affordable trains or Rail Europe for rail passes!
Travel E-SIMS: Airalo Worldwide! Use your mobile phone anywhere!
Need More Help Planning Your Trip? Visit our Resources Page to see all the companies we trust and use for our travels.
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Author
Michelle Wright
Hi, I'm Michelle, a middle-aged adventurer rediscovering the world one trip at a time. After years of balancing career and family, I’m now embracing my love for travel with a fresh perspective. From exploring ancient ruins in Greece to savoring wine in Tuscany’s rolling hills, I seek destinations that blend culture, history, and relaxation. My blog posts share practical advice, heartfelt stories, and inspiration for fellow travelers proving it’s never too late to chase wanderlust. Join me as I navigate new horizons and find joy in life’s next chapter!
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