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Update April 12, 2024

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Are you traveling or living outside the U.S.? STEP is a free service that sends you emails with updates from the local U.S. embassy or consulate. If there’s an emergency where you are, it helps us contact you with instructions on what to do.

Why join STEP?

• Get real time updates about health, weather, safety, and security in the country.
• Plan ahead using information from the local U.S. embassy.
• Help the embassy or consulate contact you if there’s an emergency like a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency.

What kind of messages does STEP send? Currently, STEP sends emails only. STEP can send you several types of information:

• Routine Messages : News and updates about the country you picked.
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Become a Smart Traveler Now!   STEP is an easy first step to being a smart traveler. You should also always research your destination , and consider additional ways to get safety and security information from the U.S. Department of State, like on social media.

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Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

Border with Syria

FCDO advises against all travel within 10km of the border with Syria.

Sirnak (city)

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Sirnak (city).

Hakkari province

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Hakkari province.

Find out more about  why FCDO advises against travel .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

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More travel information for Turkey

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Turkey

• Culture and Etiquette in Turkey
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• Getting around Turkey: Transportation Tips
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• Best time to visit Turkey
• Archeological sites

Most archeological sites open daily between either 8am, 8.30am or 9pm and 6.30pm or 7pm in summer. Winter opening hours are usually shorter. Some smaller archeological sites are only guarded during the day and left unfenced, permitting (in theory) a free wander around in the evening, though, in the wake of antiquities theft, this could feasibly result in you being picked up by the jandarma .

Crime and personal safety

Electricity, entry requirements, opening hours and public holidays, tourist information, useful websites, getting mobile, kdv: turkish vat, tailor-made travel itineraries for turkey, created by local experts.

4 days  / from 1050 USD

Sensational landscapes of Cappadocia

3 different modes of transportation to explore Cappadocia - by hot air balloon, on the back of a camel as well as on an ATV quad. Why choose if you can have it all? Four days filled with fun and adventure in the volcanic valleys around Cappadocia make an unforgettable trip.

5 days  / from 1100 USD

City & culture - Istanbul and Cappadocia

Explore two absolute highlights in Turkey - Istanbul, the former capital of the Ottoman Empire with its many landmarks. After a few days in the city, fly to Cappadocia and explore the surreal surroundings, either on day tours or from above in a hot air balloon.

9 days  / from 2500 USD

Magical Turkey

Visit Gobekli Tepe and Mount Nemrut in Southeastern Anatolia before proceeding to Cappadocia with its volcanic scenery. After a few days in the valleys, continue to Pamukkale and the ancient city of Ephesus. Your tour starts and ends in Istanbul.

Don’t pay entrance fees unless the wardens can produce a ticket, and keep it with you for the duration of your visit. Sites like Patara and Olympos straddle the route to a good beach. If you are staying nearby and want to visit the beach on several occasions, Smart PlajKarts are available, allowing multiple site/beach entries. One card can be shared but they are only valid for ten days.

Except near major cities, where seawater is sometimes polluted, Turkish beaches are safe to swim at, though be prepared for occasional mountains of rubbish piled at the back of the beach. Tar can also be a problem on south-coast beaches that face Mediterranean shipping lanes; if you get tar on your feet scrub it off with olive oil rather than chemical solvents. All beaches are free in theory, though luxury compounds that straddle routes to the sand will control access in various ways, and you’ll pay for the use of beach-loungers and umbrellas.

Turkey is no longer the cheap destination it used to be; prices in the heavily touristed areas are comparable to many places in Europe. Exercise a little restraint, however, be prepared to live life at least occasionally at the local level (many Turks somehow survive on TL700 a month) and you can still enjoy a great-value trip here.

Stay in a “treehouse” or backpackers’ inn, eat in local workers’ cafés or restaurants, travel around by train or bus, avoid alcohol and the most expensive sites, and you could get by on TL60–75 (€30–37.50) a day. If that doesn’t sound like much fun, double that and you could stay in a modest hotel, see the sights and have a beer or two with your evening meal. Equally, a night out on the town in İstanbul or one of the flasher coastal resorts could easily set you back over TL100 (€50), and if you intend to see a lot of what is a very big country, transport costs could be a considerable drain on your budget – though taking night buses saves accommodation costs.

The more expensive tourist sites such as Ephesus, the Tokapı Palace and Aya Sofya cost TL25 (€12.50), but there are many more sites varying between TL3 and TL15. There are no student discounts, and the Müze Kart (Museum Card), which gives admission to all state-run museums for TL30 per annum, is for Turkish citizens only.

Turkey’s crime rate remains lower than most of Europe and North America, although pickpocketing and purse-snatching are becoming more common in İstanbul (see City crimewatch) and other major cities. Violent street crime is fortunately rare. Keep your wits about you and an eye on your belongings just as you would anywhere else, and make sure your passport is secure at all times, and you shouldn’t have any problems. Except for well-known “red-light” districts, and some eastern towns, female travellers are probably safer on their own than in other European countries.

As well as the usual warnings on drugs, note that exporting antiquities is illegal. It is also an offence to insult Atatürk or Turkey , which can result in a prison sentence. Never deface, degrade or tear up currency or the flag; drunkenness will likely be considered an aggravating, not a mitigating, factor. Also, do not take photographs near the numerous, well-marked military zones.

The police, army and gendarmerie

Turkey’s police service is split into several groups. The blue-uniformed Polis are the everyday security force in cities and towns with populations over two thousand; the white-capped Trafik Polis (traffic police) are a branch of this service. İstanbul and several other large towns have a rapid-response squad of red-and-black-uniformed motorbike police known as the yunus (dolphin) polis ; they are generally courteous and helpful to tourists and may speak some English. The dark-blue-uniformed Çevik Kuvvet Polis are a rapid response team most likely seen at demonstrations, football matches and other events where large crowds are expected. In towns Belediye Zabitası , the navy-clad market police, patrol the markets and bazaars to ensure that tradesmen aren’t ripping off customers – approach them directly if you have reason for complaint. You’re unlikely to come across plain-clothes police unless you wander off the beaten track in the ethnically Kurdish southeast.

In most rural areas, law enforcement is in the hands of the jandarma or gendarmerie, a division of the regular army charged with law-enforcement duties. Gendarmes are usually kitted out in well-tailored green fatigues; most are conscripts who will be courteous and helpful if approached.

Note that it is obligatory to carry ID at all times – for locals and foreigners alike – so if you are concerned about having your passport stolen (or losing it) while out and about, at least carry a photocopy of the pages with your details and Turkish entry stamp on your person.

Security and restricted areas

There is a noticeable security presence in the Kurdish-dominated southeast of the country, with firefights between Turkish security forces and the autonomy-minded PKK (Kurdish Workers Party) continuing at the time of writing. Security is tightest along the Iraqi and Iranian borders, particularly south and east of Hakkari and around Şırnak in the mountains south of Lake Van, in the rural hinterland of Diyarbakır and in the mountainous region of Tunceli (the last not covered in this Guide). PKK attacks are invariably made in remote rural areas, often targeting military vehicles with remotely detonated bombs, though occasional fully-fledged assaults on military outposts are made – inevitably followed by major reprisals by Turkish security forces.

Kidnappings of Turkish military personnel and civilians have also become increasingly common, and in spring 2012 a British traveller was briefly detained by the PKK having been kidnapped from an inter-city bus in Diyarbakir province. Given the civil war that was raging in Syria at the time of writing, the 800km Turkish/Syrian border could also become problematic, especially as Turkey’s biggest nightmare, a proto-Kurdish state run by Syria’s Kurdish minority, appeared to be developing across the frontier.

But what does this mean to the average traveller hoping to visit this beautiful region? The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office, for example, posts the following on its website ( w fco.gov.uk) ‘‘Due to the high risk of terrorism we advise against all but essential travel to the provinces of Hakkari, Şırnak, Siirt and Tunceli. Visitors should remain vigilant when travelling in other provinces in southeastern Turkey’’. The official line, then, is to avoid the mountains south of Lake Van that border the de facto Kurdish state in northern Iraq – but then places like Tunceli are a long, long way from the border, and the FCO in any case also writes ‘‘There is a high risk of terrorism in Turkey’’ full stop. The problem is compounded by the ever-fluctuating state of relations between the state and the PKK, with long ceasefires interrupted by violent flare-ups. Although at the time of writing (2012) PKK attacks were fairly numerous, it’s quite possible the situation may have calmed down dramatically by the time you read this. In other words, read about what is happening in the press and on travellers’ forums, and use your common sense and judgement before you travel.

Although there are fewer checkpoints on main roads than there were, you may be stopped if you attempt to travel to off-the-beaten-track sites and/or villages, and your presence may attract the attention of the jandarma (and quite possibly the plain-clothes secret police, who generally stand out a mile from the locals). This may involve, at most, a rather tedious, though polite, interrogation. Lone males especially may find themselves suspected of being journalists and/or having Kurdish/Armenian sympathies. Avoid talking politics with anyone unless you are absolutely sure you can trust them, and, if you are questioned, keep calm, smile a lot, and emphasize wherever possible that you are a turist (tourist). Of more concern to the average visitor are the violent pro-Kurdish street demonstrations that break out from time to time in southeastern cities such as Diyarbakır and Van – though major cities in the west of the country are not immune, especially İstanbul, Adana and Mersin, which have large and sometimes volatile Kurdish communities. One traditional spark for demonstrations is the Kurdish New Year or Nevruz (Newroz), on or around March 21. For more information on the Kurdish problem see Contexts.

Turkey operates on 220 volts, 50 Hz. Most European appliances should work so long as you have an adaptor for European-style two-pin plugs. American appliances will need a transformer as well as an adaptor.

Early in 2012 Turkey changed its tourist visa rules. Prior to this amendment it was possible to enter the country on a 90-day visa, then at the end of that period slip across the border to a Greek island, Bulgaria or even North Cyprus, re-enter immediately and get a new three-month stamp. Mainly in order to stop people living and working (illegally) in the country for an indefinite period, the new visa is valid for 90 days within 180 days. In other words, stay for 90 days consecutively, and you cannot re-enter for another 90 days. Alternatively, you can make multiple trips to Turkey within the 180-day validity period of the visa so long as the total stay does not exceed 90 days.

The tourist visas (available at ports of entry for a fee) are issued to citizens of the UK ($20, €15 or £10), Ireland ($20, €10 or £10), the US ($20 or €15), Canada ($60 or €45) and Australia ($20 or €15). South Africans should be able to get a 30-day visa at the point of entry, but would be wise to enquire at a Turkish consulate before travelling. New Zealanders do not currently require visas. Everyone, regardless of nationality, should have at least six months’ validity on their passport. For the latest information on visas, check with the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs at w mfa.gov.tr .

If you want to stay in the country longer than a tourist visa allows, the best option is to apply for a six-month residence permit from the Security Division ( Emniyet Müdürlüğü ), preferably in a provincial capital that’s well used to foreigners. Do this well before your time expires, as it takes at least two weeks to process. You will need to complete an “Ikamet izni beyanname formu” application form and supply four passport-sized photographs, along with photocopies from your passport of the photo-page and the page showing your last entry into Turkey. The rub is that you also need to show that you have changed $500 for each of the six months – showing change receipts from a bank or döviz will suffice. Residence permit rates vary according to nationality – UK citizens for example pay $80 (payable in TL on the day, according to the exchange rate on the day you apply), but the cost of the “blue book” containing the permit is a steep TL172. This is a one-off payment, however, as once you have the book you can keep renewing your permit for periods of between six months and ten years.

Turkish embassies and consulates abroad

Australia 60 Mugga Way, Red Hill, Canberra ACT 2603 t 02 6295 0227.

Canada 197 Wurtemburg St, Ottawa, ON K1N 8L9 t 613 789 4044.

Ireland 11 Clyde Rd, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 t 01 668 5240.

New Zealand 15–17 Murphy St, Level 8, Wellington t 04 472 1290.

South Africa 1067 Church St, Hatfield 0181, Pretoria t 012 342 5063.

UK 43 Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8PA t 0207 393 0202.

US 2525 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008 t 202 612 6700.

Customs and border inspections

As Turkey is not yet an EU member, duty-free limits – and sales – for alcohol and tobacco are still prevalent. Limits are posted clearly at İstanbul’s airports, and apply for all frontiers.

Few people get stopped departing Turkey, but the guards may be on the lookout for antiquities and fossils . Penalties for trying to smuggle these out include long jail sentences, plus a large fine. What actually constitutes an antiquity is rather vague, but it’s best not to take any chances.

It is essential to take out an insurance policy before you travel, to cover against illness or injury, as well as theft or loss. Some all-risks homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policies may cover your possessions when overseas, and many private medical schemes (such as BUPA and WPA) offer coverage extensions for abroad.

Rough Guides offers its own insurance policy. Most policies exclude so-called dangerous sports unless an extra premium is paid: in Turkey this can mean scuba diving, whitewater rafting, paragliding, windsurfing and trekking, though probably not kayaking or jeep safaris. Travel agents and package operators may require travel insurance when you book a holiday – you’re not obliged to take theirs, though you have to sign a declaration saying that you already have another policy. Similarly, many no-frills airlines make a tidy sum from selling unnecessary insurance at the time of booking – beware, and opt out.

Many hotels, pensions and hostels have internet access – often both terminals and wi-fi signal – as do an ever-increasing number of cafés. Access is usually free except in the more expensive international chain hotels. In more remote places in the interior, and the east of the country, only the more expensive hotels have wi-fi. Rates in internet cafés tend to be TL2 per hour. The Turkish-character keyboard you’ll probably be faced with may cause some confusion. The “@” sign is made by simultaneously pressing the “ALT” and “q” keys. More frustrating is the dotless “ı” (confusingly enough found right where you’ll be expecting the conventional “i”) – the Western “i” is located second key from right, middle row.

Post offices are easily spotted by their bold black-on-yellow PTT (Posta, Telegraf, Telefon) signs. Stamps are only available from the PTT, whose website ( w ptt.gov.tr ) has a (not necessarily up-to-date) English-language listing of services and prices. Post offices are generally open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm and until noon on Saturday. Airmail ( uçakla ) rates to Europe are TL1.10 for postcards, TL2 for letters up to 20g, TL19 for 2kg, the maximum weight for letters. Delivery to Europe or North America can take seven to ten days. A pricier express ( acele ) service cuts delivery times to the EU to about three days. When sending airmail, it’s best to give your stamped letter/card to the clerk behind the counter, who will ensure it gets put in the right place; otherwise, place it in the relevant slot if one is available ( yurtdışı for abroad; yurtiçi for elsewhere in Turkey).

Maps of Turkey are notoriously poor quality owing to the lack of survey-based cartography. The best foreign-produced touring maps , accurately showing many smaller villages, are those published by Kartographischer Verlag Reinhard Ryborsch (1:500,000; Frankfurt, Germany), which cover the entire country in seven maps. They are usually available online, but both original and pirated versions are sold at better bookshops in İstanbul, Ankara and big resorts. Reasonable second choices, easier to obtain, include Insight’s Turkey West and Insight Turkey (both 1:800,000), both of which are easy to read and reasonably accurate, and the equally reliable Turkey Geocentre Euro map (1:750,000).

In terms of Turkish-produced touring maps , the 1:400,000 atlas produced by Atlas magazine is highly accurate but difficult to read owing to murky printing. The best regional touring maps are Sabri Aydal’s 1:250,000 products for Cappadocia, Lycia, Pamphylia and Pisidia, available from local bookshops and museums.

İstanbul, Ankara, Antalya, Bursa and İzmir (as well as overseas) tourist offices stock reasonable, free city street plans . Sketch plans from provincial tourist offices vary widely in quality.

Among Turkish-produced city maps , Net’s “All of Istanbul” 1:9000 is more comprehensive than Keskin Colour’s 1:8500 “İstanbul Street Plan”, and includes useful maps of the Prince’s islands. The most detailed A–Z-style atlas for the European side, ideal for out-of-the-way monuments, is Mepmedya’s 1:7500 “İstanbul Avrupa Yakası”, though it’s pricey (TL50) and heavy. All these are sold in town and (Mepmedya excepted) cheaper than anything produced abroad.

For trekking maps see the section Hiking equipment and safety.

Turkey’s currency is the Turkish Lira (Türk Lirası) or TL for short, divided into smaller units known as kuruş. Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 kuruş and TL1, with notes in denominations of TL5, TL10, TL20, TL50, TL100 and TL200.

At the time of writing the exchange rate was around TL2.10 to the euro, TL2.70 to the pound and TL1.70 to the US dollar. As recently as 2004 hyperinflation meant that millions of lira were needed to purchase the smallest everyday item. and many Turks still talk in millions, which can be confusing when you are asked “bir milyon” or one million lira for a TL1 glass of tea.

Rates for foreign currency are always better inside Turkey, so try not to buy much lira at home. Conversely, don’t leave Turkey with unspent lira, as you won’t get a decent exchange rate for them outside the country. It’s wise to bring a fair wad of hard currency with you (euros are best, though dollars and sterling are often accepted), as you can often use it to pay directly for souvenirs or accommodation (prices for both are frequently quoted in euros). Travellers’ cheques are, frankly, not worth the bother, as exchange offices and some banks refuse them.

Changing money

While most banks, such as İşbank and Yapıkredi, change money, the best exchange rate is usually given by the state-owned banks Ziraat Bankası, which has dedicated döviz (exchange) counters – but despite the automated ticket/queuing system queues can be long. Döviz , or exchange houses, are common in Turkey’s cities and resorts. They buy and sell foreign currency of most sorts instantly, and have the convenience of long opening hours (usually 9/10am–8/10pm) and short or nonexistent queues. Most do not charge commission, but give a lower rate than the banks.

Remember to keep all foreign-exchange slips with you until departure, if only to prove the value of purchases made in case of queries by customs.

Credit/debit cards and ATMs

Credit cards are widely used in hotels, shops, restaurants, travel agencies and entertainment venues and with no commission (though many hotels and shops offer discounts for cash rather than credit-card payments). Don’t expect, however, to use your card in basic eating places or small corner shops. Swipe readers plus chip-and-PIN protocol are now the norm in most of Turkey.

The simplest way to get hold of money in Turkey is to use the widespread ATM network. Most bank ATMs will accept any debit cards that are part of the Cirrus, Maestro or Visa/Plus systems. Screen prompts are given in English on request. You can also normally get cash advances at any bank displaying the appropriate sign, and in major cities and resorts some ATMs will give euros and dollars. It’s safest to use ATMs attached to banks during normal working hours, so help can be summoned if your card is eaten (not uncommon). Turkish ATMs sometimes “time out” without disgorging cash, while your home bank may still debit your account – leaving you to argue the toss with them. ATM fraud is rife in Turkey – make sure you are not overlooked when keying in your PIN. You can also use Visa or MasterCard to get cash from ATMs.

Office workers keep conventional Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm schedules, with a full lunch hour. Civil servants, including tourist offices and museum staff, in theory work 8.30am to 5.30pm, but in practice hours can be much more erratic – don’t expect to get official business attended to the same day after 2.30pm. Most state banks are open Monday to Friday, 8.30am to noon and 1.30pm to 5pm. Private banks such as Garanti Bankası and Köç operate throughout the day.

Ordinary shops , including large department stores and mall outlets, are open continuously from 8.30am or 9am until 7pm or 8pm (sometimes even later in many major cities and resorts). Craftsmen and bazaar stallholders often work from 9am to 8pm or 9pm, Monday to Saturday, with only short breaks for meals, tea or prayers. Even on Sunday the tradesmen’s area may not be completely shut down – though don’t count on this.

Museums are generally open from 8.30am or 9am until 4.30pm or 5pm in winter, later in the summer. Virtually all state, and some private, museums are closed on Monday, though in İstanbul closing days are staggered so make sure you check the individual listings. All tourist sites and museums are closed on the mornings of public holidays. Mosques are theoretically open all the time, but many of the less visited ones are kept locked outside of prayer times, and many do not encourage visitors at prayer times!

Public holidays

Secular public holidays are generally marked by processions of schoolchildren or the military, or by some demonstration of national strength and dignity, such as a sports display. Banks and government offices will normally be closed on these days (exceptions given here). For more information, see the section on religious festivals.

Jan 1 Yılbaşı – New Year’s Day.

April 23 Ulusal Egemenlik ve Çocuk Bayramı – Independence Day, celebrating the first meeting of the new Republican parliament in Ankara, and Children’s Day.

May 19 Gençlik ve Spor Günü – Youth and Sports Day, also Atatürk’s birthday.

May 29 İstanbul’s capture by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1453 (İstanbul only).

July 1 Denizcilik Günü – Navy Day (banks and offices open).

Aug 26 Silahlı Kuvvetler Günü – Armed Forces Day (banks and offices open).

Aug 30 Zafer Bayramı – Celebration of the Turkish victory over the Greek forces at Dumlupınar in 1922.

Sept 9 Kurtuluş Günü – Liberation Day, with parades and speeches marking the end of the Independence War (İzmir only).

Oct 29 Cumhuriyet Bayramı – commemorates the proclamation of the Republic by Atatürk in 1923.

Nov 10 Anniversary of Atatürk’s death in 1938 . Observed at 9.05am (the time of his demise), when the whole country stops whatever it’s doing and maintains a respectful silence for a minute. It’s worth being on a Bosphorus ferry then, when all the engines are turned off, and the boats drift and sound their foghorns mournfully.

Most fixed-line telecom services are provided by TT (Türk Telekom); its website ( w turktelekom.com.tr ) has an English-language page listing all services and tariffs. The best place to make phone calls is from either a PTT (post office) or a TT (Türk Telekom) centre. Inside, or just adjacent, there is usually a row of card ( köntürlü or smartkart ) call boxes (TTs are blue and turquoise), and/or a kontürlü (metered, clerk-attended) phone, the latter sometimes in a closed booth. Public phones are to be found in squares and parks, outside many public buildings and at train stations and ferry terminals. The standard Turkish phone replies are the Frenchified Allo or the more local Buyurun (literally, “Avail yourself/at your service”).

“Smart” phonecards are available from PTT or TT centres; when using these, wait for the number of units remaining to appear on the screen before you dial, and be aware that you will have little warning of being cut off. They are bought in units of 50 (TL3.75), 100 (TL7.50), 200 (TL15) and 350 (TL19). A steadily increasing number of phones have also been adapted to accept foreign credit cards . Metered booths inside PTTs or TTs, or at street kiosks or shops (look for signs reading kontürlü telefon bulunur ), work out more expensive than cards, but are certainly far cheaper than hotels, and also tend to be quieter (plus you won’t be cut off). Their disadvantage is that you can’t see the meter ticking over, and instances of overcharging are not unknown.

Overseas calls

Overseas call rates are TL0.25 per minute to Europe or North America. Try not to make anything other than local calls from a hotel room – there’s usually a minimum 100 percent surcharge on phonecard rates. For extended chat overseas, it’s best to buy an international phonecard. Best is the Alocard, available from PTT branches and usable in public phones. Reveal the 12-digit PIN by scratching; then call the domestic access number, followed by the destination number. Rates are low – for example, a TL10 card allows 104 minutes to the UK or US. The cards can also be used for domestic calls, giving 140 minutes of calling time.

Turkey uses a system of eleven-digit phone numbers nationwide, consisting of four-digit area or mobile-provider codes (all starting with “0”) plus a seven-digit subscriber number.

To call a number in Turkey from overseas , dial your country’s international access code, then 90 for Turkey, then the area or mobile code minus the initial zero, and finally the subscriber number. To call home from Turkey , dial t 00 followed by the relevant international dialling code, then the area code (without the initial zero if there is one) then the number.

Turkey is two hours ahead of GMT in winter. As in Europe, daylight saving is observed between March and October – clocks change at 2am on the last Sunday in each month – so effectively Turkey remains two hours ahead of the UK year-round.

Most Turkish towns of any size will have a Turizm Danışma Bürosu or tourist office of some sort, often lodged inside the Belediye (city hall) in the smaller places. However, outside the larger cities and obvious tourist destinations there’s often little hard information to be had, and world-weary staff may dismiss you with useless brochures. Lists of accommodation are sometimes kept at the busier offices; personnel, however, will generally not make bookings. On the other hand, staff in out-of-the-way places can be embarrassingly helpful. It’s best to have a specific question – about bus schedules, festival ticket availability or museum opening hours – although in remote regions there is no guarantee that there will be anyone who can speak English.

Tourist offices generally adhere to a standard opening schedule of 8.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday. Between May and September in big-name resorts and large cities, these hours extend well into the evening and through much of the weekend. In winter, by contrast, many tourist offices in out-of-the-way spots will be shut most of the time.

Turkish information offices abroad

Overseas Turkish tourist offices (often the embassy’s Information Office) will provide a few very basic maps and glossy brochures.

UK 29–30 St James’s St, London SW1A 1HB telephone: 0207 8397778, website: gototurkey.co.uk .

US 821 United Nations Plaza, New York, NY 10017 telephone: 212 687 2194; 2525 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008 t 202 612 6800; 5055 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 850, Los Angeles CA 90036 telephone: 323 937 8066, website: goturkiye.com

biletix.com

An online booking service for arts, cultural, music and sports events (mainly in İstanbul and Ankara), in both English and Turkish.

cultureroutesinturkey.com

Umbrella site for all the country’s hiking and horse-riding trails.

goturkiye.com

Turkey’s official tourist information site.

muze.gen.tr

Government website with information on the country’s state-run museums, including the latest opening hours and admission fees.

trekkinginturkey.com

Well-researched information on major trekking areas and long-distance routes, with links to relevant outdoor-activity-type sites.

turkishculture.org

Not terribly innovative – but it does give a useful rundown on everything from architecture to ceramics, literature to music and lifestyles to cuisine – with plenty of photographs and illustrations.

Given the Turkish penchant for chatting, mobile phones are essential accessories here. Assuming that you have a roaming facility, your home mobile will connect with one of the local network providers – however, US mobiles won’t work here. Charges, though, are high (up to £1.30/min to the UK), and you pay for incoming calls as well. Purchasing a local SIM card and pay-as-you-go package may be worth considering if you intend to make a lot of calls. Turkcell SIM cards (which can take up to 24hr to activate) cost TL35, including TL5 calling credit, or TL45 will get you the card and TL20 credit. Typically, calls cost 80 kuruş per min to Europe and North America, an SMS message to the UK the same. To purchase a SIM card, you’ll need to sign an agreement form and present your passport for photocopying at a major Turkcell, Avea or Vodafone outlet where they’ll fit the new card. All three companies have stands at arrivals in Istanbul’s Atatürk and Sabiha Gökçen airports; Turkcell has the widest coverage. Note that the rules on bringing in mobiles from overseas and using them with a Turkish SIM card change regularly. This is because mobiles are much cheaper when bought outside the country, so the government keeps introducing ever more stringent conditions in the hope of preventing people bringing them in and selling them on. At the time of writing, a mobile registered at a legitimate outlet can be used with a Turkish SIM for one month, after which it will be blocked. If you buy from one of the many smaller mobile phone stores and don’t sign an agreement you run the risk of your phone not being registered for use in Turkey, and it will be blocked within a matter of days.

The Turkish variety of VAT ( Katma Değer Vergisi or KDV ), ranging from eight to 23 percent depending on the commodity, is included in the price of virtually all goods and services (except car rental, where the 18 percent figure is usually quoted separately). Look for the notice Fiyatlarımız KDV Dahildir (VAT included in our prices) if you think someone’s trying to do you for it twice. There’s a VAT refund scheme for large souvenir purchases made by those living outside Turkey, but it’s such a rigmarole to get that it’s probably not worth pursuing; if you insist, ask the shop to provide a KDV İade Özel Fatura (Special VAT Refund Invoice), assuming that it participates – very few do, and they tend to be the most expensive shops.

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Turkey Travel Tips: 22 Things to Know Before Going to Turkey

If you’re heading to Turkey soon, you’re lucky! But it’s smart to look for some Turkey travel tips and advice as the country can be exotic depending on where you come from.

Rest assured though, you will have a memorable trip in Turkey, whether you visit just Istanbul or take time to go to other parts of the country. It is a diverse, beautiful country with amazing landmarks , flavorful food, good beach resorts, and lots of activities to suit every preference. Traveling there is fun and affordable, making Turkey a prime tourist destination.

Here are 22 things to know before going to Turkey that will certainly be helpful to you, especially if you are going for the first time. 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Safety in Turkey

2. you may need a visa to enter the country, 3. turkey is a large country, so take note of flying time or driving distances, 4. weather in turkey & best time to visit, 5. cost of living in turkey, 6. getting around turkey, 7. where to go in turkey, 8. spend some time exploring istanbul, 9. try the local food, 10. be prepared for traffic and lots of people, 11. taxi scams to be avoided, 12. always carry cash, 13. you must haggle to buy anything, 14. turkey is a shopping destination, 15. turkey is also a medical destination, 16. dress modestly at cultural sites and in bazaars, 17. wi-fi may not work as well, 18. communication outside istanbul, 19. bring a travel adapter, 20. some websites are banned, 21. what to pack, 22. relax and things will be done, faq about visiting turkey.

wiLet me address this right away. It is crazy how this beautiful country gets portrayed in the media at times. There is no safety issue in traveling to Turkey, whether as a couple or a family.

We traveled to Turkey with our 2-year-old daughter, and everyone was kind and so playful with our daughter. Of course, if you are a solo female traveler, you would take the same precautions that you would in any other country in Asia or Africa.

The recent earthquake in 2023 in the Aegean region in Turkey was devastating and relief efforts are still on, but this is far away from tourist places, so don’t let that keep you away from planning a trip to Turkey. And if you are the worried type, having travel insurance is always a wise choice.

Like many countries around the world, you may not be able to freely enter Turkey depending on your country of origin. 

Surprisingly, this is a key aspect that often slips the minds of those living in developed countries (myself included). Yet, even citizens of countries like the United States require applying for a visa to visit Turkey. Quite astonishing, isn’t it?

For Americans, it is quite simple: all you have to do is fill in a form online and pay $50. You’ll get an e-Visa in just a few minutes, allowing you to stay for up to 90 days.

Check here to find out if you need a visa or not to enter Turkey.

Lake Van in Middle Easter Turkey

While planning your Turkey itinerary, make sure you factor in moving time from one city to another. We covered just Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Ephesus over a 10-day Turkey itinerary , and that trip felt packed (traveling with a 2-year-old).

Our flight time from Ataturk Airport in Istanbul to Kayseri (airport at Cappadocia) was 2.5 hours. Combine that with travel time to and from both airports, it took the better part of a day. Ditto for the flight and travel time from Cappadocia to Izmir (to visit Ephesus).

If you are taking a road trip instead of internal flights, the time to travel between cities would just multiply. So do account for travel times and then finalize places to visit in Turkey.

Turkey is a large country with differing weather patterns depending on where you go, but it is mainly continental.

In general, summers can be extremely hot so be prepared for strong sun if you go in this time. But it’s the best period to enjoy the beaches and the pleasures of swimming. However, exploring certain sites, such as Ephesus for example, can be fairly exhausting at this time of year, as the heat is overwhelming.

Winter can be cold, quite rainy, and snowy in some parts. In Central Anatolia, temperatures can drop as low as -30°C / -22°F!

The best time to visit Turkey would be in spring or autumn. The shoulder seasons are indeed ideal for walking, especially in Cappadocia. There are also fewer tourists, which means more opportunities to talk to the locals.

The cost of living in Turkey is lower than in the US or Western Europe. However, you will be surprised at how expensive activities and tours can be, such as the famous hot-air balloon rides in Cappadocia (yes, prepare some cash).

There is also a big difference between Istanbul and the rest of the country. So if you want to take souvenirs home with you, it is wise to avoid buying them in Istanbul, where prices are skyrocketing. It is more budget-savvy to make your purchases as you go along.

If you’re visiting Istanbul only, avoid buying in the Grand Bazaar. There is plenty of choice, but it is pricer than in the surrounding shops, even if you bargain.

Below is a rough daily budget per person for enjoying your Turkey trip to the fullest:

• For about $30 USD/day (810 TRY), you can travel in backpacker mode : crash in budget hotels, eat on the go or at local joints and hop on public transport.
• For around $50 USD/day (1350 TRY), you’re in for more treats : a comfy hotel stay, dining out at restaurants, hopping on public transport, plus a few cab rides and sightseeing.
• For about $70 USD/day (1890 TRY), you’re in for a deluxe experience : a cozy stay in an upscale hotel, rent a car and eat at good restaurants. You can also treat yourself to some fine handicrafts.

Compare accommodation prices in Turkey on Booking.com

Subway in Istabul

Exploring Turkey is best achieved through a combination of car rental and air travel. The country’s vast landscapes lend themselves to memorable road trips, but it would be impossible to rely solely on the car.

If you are in Istanbul and want to visit Cappadocia for example, the best is to take a domestic flight between Istanbul and Kayseri, rent a car there, and then fly back to Antalya to visit the coast with another car.

Turkey’s public transport is well-equipped with buses and dolmuş . Dolmuş are collective minibusses serving both urban centers and their outskirts. While budget-friendly, dolmuş operates on a fill-and-go basis, needing patience and time. As for bus rides, they are too long and often uncomfortable, so they are not appropriate for short visits.

In urban areas, public transport is efficient and affordable, and taxis are readily available—just ensure the meter is engaged (more details below).

Turkey has many places of interest and very different regions. To fully experience its charm, consider dedicating 2-3 days – or more – to each location, as the country’s vastness makes day trips challenging.

Here are the best places to stay in Turkey to get the most out of the country and explore the must-sees:

• Istanbul : Often mistaken for the capital, this sprawling metropolis is an ideal starting point for your Turkish adventure.
• Cappadocia : A truly picturesque and Instagrammable destination, Cappadocia’s rock churches around Göreme present an enchanting open-air museum .
• Izmir : With a history spanning over 3,000 years, this ancient city boasts a rich cultural heritage and significant historical sites.
• Pamukkale : Its renowned sparkling-white terraces create an otherworldly setting that’s sure to captivate.
• Antalya : Wander through its winding streets and embrace the unique ambiance of one of Turkey’s most stunning cities.
• Bodrum : A blend of modernity and trendiness, Bodrum ranks among Turkey’s top seaside resorts.
• Selçuk : This charming town serves as a base for exploring the ancient marvels of Ephesus during the daytime.

I have been to Istanbul twice; it is a fascinating city. Istanbul straddles 2 continents and the Bosphorus flows through the city. The ancient sites at Sultanahmet are just stunning. The grandiose Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Topkapi Palace are incomparable. The hustle and bustle at Grand Bazaar or Spices Market has to be seen to be believed.

And then there is the modern part of Istanbul that is so cosmopolitan and yet, distinctly Turkish, like Istiklal Caddesi and Taksim Square.

So don’t just spend a day in this vast cultural metropolis. I would recommend 3 to 4 days in Istanbul to explore it fully. If staying for more than 3 nights in Istanbul, my suggestion would be to stay 2 nights in Sultanahmet to be close to the ancient sites. And the remaining nights in any of the modern neighborhoods (Beyoglu, Besiktas would be good options) to explore the rest of Istanbul.

Also, the traffic is ferocious in Istanbul so do account for the time taken to travel from one part of the city to another.

Read more : Discover Istanbul most famous landmarks

Turkish cuisine is influenced by many different cuisines and cultures like Central Asian, Middle Eastern, and so on. There are so many savory local foods to try, like the dolma, pide, menemen.

If you like kebabs, there is a large variety to be found – doner kebabs, adana kebabs, chelo kebab to name a few. And this would be heaven for those who have a sweet tooth – the sheer variety of baklava and other sweets is unbelievable. A hot cup of tea or coffee would complement any meal perfectly.

One of the best experiences was our food walk tour in Istanbul . Not only did we try out local cuisine at small eateries, but we also ventured into many different neighborhoods on both sides of the Bosphorus that we may not have gone to by ourselves.

You may want to enjoy the famous Turkish breakfast or kahvalti. This would be a table full of small plates. You could even try it in the afternoon if this much food is not your preference in the morning.

I already mentioned the crazy traffic in Istanbul earlier. I come from India and am used to a lot of people. And yet, I was overwhelmed by the sheer number at the Grand Bazaar.

To go from one neighborhood to another in Istanbul, account for peak traffic timings. It can be ferocious. And it’s not just bazaars that are crowded in this sprawling city. A walk on Galata Bridge in the evening can be quite an adventure with people jostling for space!

Before getting into a taxi, check if there is a meter and ask for the approximate amount and the route. Most taxi drivers would take the direct route and not the longer ‘scenic one’ if they see you being cautious and questioning.

During the drive, turn on your own GPS to make sure the driver takes you to the right place and always keep an eye on the meter so the driver doesn’t turn it off.

It is also good to ask the locals in your hotel beforehand about the money it would cost to go from one place to another.

There are Ubers available in Istanbul. Even when using the Uber app, some drivers may take a shot and ask you for cash: never give cash as you will be also charged online on the app, ending up paying twice.

Credit cards are widely accepted across Turkey, but it is advisable to keep a small amount of cash handy as well. This is particularly important when venturing beyond major urban areas, where card acceptance might not be as reliable, and ATMs could be scarce.

Should you need to exchange money, it is best to do so upon your arrival in Turkey to secure more favorable exchange rates

While shopping for a Turkish souvenir, in Grand Bazaar or outside, do not shy away from haggling. This is the time to put these skills to the test!

When the shopkeeper tells you the price for something, quote less than half. He would accuse you of robbing him blind, and make wild gestures at times. Take your time to bargain and the final price mostly would be between the 2 prices quoted – the initial price by the shopkeeper and the price you started with.

But don’t let this culture of haggling keep you away from buying souvenirs from Turkey. There are food products like tea, coffee, baklava, and Turkish Delight that you can take back home.

There are also lovely ceramics, Iznik tiles, brassware, and copperware, tea sets to be bought. And if you don’t mind something heavy and expensive to be transported back home, Turkish rugs are quite famous.

Medical tourism in Turkey is booming, with people flocking from all over the world. They are drawn not only by the top-notch quality of care and state-of-the-art facilities but also by the incredibly favorable prices for various procedures. In fact, some surgeries are up to 80% cheaper in Turkey!

In addition to affordable rates, what attracts so many patients to Turkey is the simplification of administrative procedures. The country goes the extra mile when it comes to healthcare, often offering all-inclusive packages. Airfare, airport pick-up, luxury accommodation, tailored travel itinerary… Essentially, all you need to do is pay, and the rest is taken care of!

The majority of patients come to Turkey for procedures such as hair transplants, dental surgeries, cosmetic interventions, bariatric surgeries, laser eye treatments, and dermatological therapies. So don’t be surprised if, at the airport or on the plane, you come across several bandaged skulls or noses!

Inside Hagia Sophia in Istanbul

Turkey is diverse and so is Istanbul, so be aware of where to dress conservatively. Dress modestly for all mosques and cultural sites within the Sultanahmet area. Both men and women need to cover their legs and heads before entering a mosque.

Also, know the proper etiquette at a mosque and that non-Muslims cannot go to the inner sanctum during prayer times. Some spots may require you to take your shoes off and then wash your hands.

There are modern neighborhoods in Istanbul where Westernized attire is normal. And you will see all sorts of swimwear at any of the beach resorts in Turkey . However, modern holiday resorts do not truly represent Turkey. For an authentic feel, do visit the local village outside your tourist resort. And dress modestly for this visit.

Be prepared for patchy Wi-Fi connectivity, especially outside Istanbul. Even for passcodes at places including the airport, you need a Turkish or a European number. If you really need Wi-Fi to work, you should buy a local Turkish sim card (for those having an international phone plan) or rent a Pocket Wi-Fi.

The prepaid sim card is the least expensive option. It includes a predefined amount of mobile data, which you can use as you wish without worrying about going over the limit. But be careful where you buy it, as the price may vary depending on the store. Prefer buying it in a Turkcell shop .

Pocket Wi-Fi is the best solution if you need to share the connection between several devices or with several people. It offers unlimited mobile data on a top local network. You can rent one online or visit a Turkcell store. The cost is about $8 – $9 per day for rentals of 5 days or more (shorter rentals aren’t as cost-effective).

Get a 5-day Pocket Wi-Fi that you can share with up to 10 people for just 42€ here .

English is not widely spoken in Turkey. And if you step outside Istanbul, it is best to know some words and phrases to help you around. This is particularly important if you have allergies or food preferences, you should know the specific Turkish words to make yourself understood.

💡Here’s a shortlist of the basic expressions to know when traveling to Turkey:

• Hello = Merhaba
• Ok = Tamman
• Good morning = Günaydın
• How are you? = Nasılsın?
• Please = Lutfen
• Thank you = Teşekkürler
• Goodbye = Güle güle or Hoşçakal
• Good evening = Iyi akşamlar
• Good night = Iyi geceler

The electricity voltage is 220 V in Turkey, and you have to carry a standard European travel adapter (F type).

Make sure you pack it in your luggage as it may be difficult to find one that works properly when in Turkey. If you don’t have one, I recommend buying this one or this one if you travel a lot.

There’s a list of about 50,000 websites that can’t be accessed from within Turkish borders due to various reasons . The list includes platforms like Booking.com (can be used for Turkey but when outside the country), Paypal, and Wikipedia, as well as illicit and prohibited sites.

Surprisingly, even though these sites are restricted in Turkey, they still pop up in search engine results. Consequently, when attempting to find information on Google and inadvertently clicking on a banned site (often Wikipedia ranking first), your device grapples for several minutes, only to be met with your browser stating “This site is not accessible.” This can be quite frustrating.

Fortunately, there is a solution: using a VPN. But again, beware: many VPNs are blocked in Turkey, so you’ll need a VPN with robust security features.

Regarding clothing, your choices will naturally hinge on the season of your visit to Turkey. To help you in making appropriate clothing selections, download this free winter/summer packing list here . 

As for the rest, here’s a list of the essentials you’ll need for a trip to Turkey, whatever the season: 

• Electrical adapter
• Good walking shoes (the most important item, there is nothing worse than wearing uncomfy shoes when walking all day long)
• Packing cubes (hey, you need to make space for the souvenirs!)
• Travel towel
• Sweater and/or a  hoodie
• B01A0NT3D6 (always, even to protect yourself from the winter sun!)
• Scarf to enter mosques, ideally in linen or cotton gauze for more comfort

Check this page to make sure you don’t forget anything in your luggage.

Sirince Valley in Western Turkey

Do remember that things don’t work in Swiss time here. People do have a laissez-faire attitude towards most things in life, so work will be done when it gets done.

So don’t find ‘Turkey time’ aggravating and you will have a nice holiday!

Hope you’ve found these travel Turkey tips helpful! But I’m done yet, so keep reading to get more info 👇

What is the currency in Turkey?

The official currency in Turkey is the Turkish lira (TRY), and it is divided into kuruş. 

Currently, $1 USD = 27,03 TRY. Check the exchange rates here (always up to date).

Is Turkey dangerous to visit? 

No, Turkey is not dangerous to visit. Apart from the risk of terrorist attacks (as in many European countries), Turkey is a safe country, with the exception of certain regions, and you will have no trouble getting around.

Cities such as Istanbul and Ankara are considered safe, although they face common urban problems such as pickpocketing, which can be found in most of the world’s major cities.

However, caution is advised in certain southern regions that border Syria and Iraq, such as Mardin and Diyarbakir provinces. These areas have experienced an ongoing armed conflict between the Turkish military and the PKK (Kurdistan Workers’ Party), which is classified as a terrorist organization by some countries.

How is driving in Turkey?

Turkey is well-equipped with modern infrastructure, generally clear signage, and readily available fuel and services throughout the country. But before you hit the road, here are a few driving in Turkey tips & info: 

• If you’re not a Turkish citizen, you have to be 21 to be allowed to rent and drive a car
• Most tourists can drive in Turkey with a valid foreign driver’s license for up to 6 months. However, if your driver’s license is printed in a non-Roman alphabet like Arabic or Chinese for instance, an international driver’s license is required.
• Turkey has a zero blood alcohol limit, which means you can’t drink and drive in Turkey.
• In the old towns, the lanes are extremely narrow, steep, and made of cobblestones, most of which are missing, so avoid them as much as possible.
• Speed limits are not always indicated, so here they are: freeways are limited to 120 km/h (75 mph), dual carriageways (out of town) to 90 km/h (55 mph); and 50 km/h (30 mph) in town.
• Be quick and efficient at traffic lights. The locals won’t give you a moment’s rest, honking as soon as the light turns green.

Is tap water safe to drink in Turkey?

No, it is not recommended to drink tap water in Turkey. Drink capped bottled water only wherever you are in Turkey (even restaurants and hotels) and avoid ice cubes.

Where to stay in Turkey?

Here is a selection of the very best accommodation to stay in Turkey’s most popular places, Istanbul & Cappadocia:

Accommodations in Istanbul:

• ✅ Overall Best Hotel – Galata Greenland Hotel : from far the best one, spotlessly clean, beautifully decorated with good service, and perfect location.
• ✨ Best Luxury Hotel – RUZ Hotels : this 5-star hotel has an outstanding customer grade of 9.4/10 and a spectacular terrace with a view. Nothing more to say!
• 💰 Best Budget Hotel – Hotel Sultanahmet : you can’t be closer to Hagia Sophia! The view is so incredible, the place is clean with all amenities.

Accommodations in Cappadocia:

• ✅ Overall Best Hotel – Elite Cave Suites : this is the best value for money you can find in the area. Great location, amazing caves to sleep in, a great terrace with a view, in short, a full Cappadocia experience.
• ✨ Best Luxury Hotel – Divan Cave House : this hotel is exactly what you’d expect from Cappadocia, with exceptional facilities and services.
• 💰 Best Budget Hotel – Cappadocia Stone Palace : everything is perfect, for a very affordable given the area. It is clean, the staff is helpful and the rooftop has a crazy view.

Find more accommodation elsewhere in Turkey on Booking.com .

🔍 Read more:

• Best Landmarks in Turkey
• Best Landmarks in Istanbul
• Is Istanbul worth visiting?
• 1-day itinerary in Istanbul
• 2-day itinerary in Istanbul
• 4-day itinerary in Istanbul
• Karakoy Istanbul Neighborhood Guide
• Balat Istanbul Neighborhood Guide

Hope you liked these useful tips for traveling to Turkey and that they will help you spend a wonderful time there. 🙂 

About the Author

Shweta has always been passionate about travel and immersing in new experiences. Having been to over 40 countries, she blogs at Zest In A Tote to bring family-friendly itineraries and tips, destinations, and luxury stays to her readers. Her belief in family travel needn’t be boring and one can do a mix of local culture & food, adventure activities, and relaxation, all with family. Connect with Shweta on Facebook or Instagram .

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Hey, I'm Kevin

I'm a professional photographer, with over a decade of experience in the travel industry. I worked with countless travel brands, and my travel advice has been featured in major publications such as CNN, Forbes & the New York Magazine. But the best travel advice is definitely found here on my website! I'm all about adventure travel, hiking and exploring the outdoors - even if I often find myself exploring cities with my wife Nesrine. If you have any questions, leave a comment on this post or reach out by email at: [email protected]

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You have done a great job of highlighting some of the most important and helpful things to know before going to Turkey, such as visa, safety, transportation, culture, food and attractions. I like how you explained each tip in a clear and concise way, with some useful links and resources. Your photos are stunning and inspiring, too.

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How To Plan A Trip To Turkey On A Budget: Smart Tips

Budget-friendly guide to planning your turkey adventure.

Turkey, a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes, beckons travelers from around the world. Planning a trip to this vibrant country doesn’t have to strain your wallet. With smart planning and insider tips, you can explore Turkey’s treasures while keeping your budget in check. This guide will walk you through essential steps to plan an affordable and enriching journey to Turkey .

1. Timing Your Visit: Off-Peak Perks

• Travel in Off-Season: Turkey’s off-peak season, typically from November to March, offers lower prices and fewer crowds. The mild weather in coastal areas during these months is ideal for budget travelers.
• Festivals and Events: Be aware of local festivals and events, as they can affect accommodation prices. Researching local holidays helps avoid unexpected costs.

2. Budget-Friendly Flights: Finding the Best Deals

• Flight Comparison Tools: Utilize flight comparison websites to find the best deals. Booking in advance and being flexible with dates can lead to significant savings.
• Connecting Flights: Consider flights with layovers, as they can be cheaper than direct flights.

3. Affordable Accommodations: Where to Stay

• Hostels and Guesthouses: Turkey offers a variety of hostels and guesthouses, perfect for budget travelers. These accommodations often provide a more authentic experience.
• Airbnb and Rentals: Explore Airbnb or local rental options, which can be cost-effective, especially for longer stays.

4. Eating on a Budget: Savoring Turkish Delights

• Street Food and Local Eateries: Indulge in Turkish street food and local eateries instead of tourist-oriented restaurants. This not only saves money but also offers a taste of authentic Turkish cuisine.
• Markets and Cooking: Visit local markets to buy fresh produce if you have access to a kitchen. Cooking some meals can be a great way to reduce costs.

5. Exploring Attractions: Maximizing Your Experience

• Free Attractions: Many of Turkey’s attractions, like its historic streets, vibrant bazaars, and some museums, are free to visit.
• Discount Cards: Look for tourist discount cards that offer reduced entry fees to multiple attractions.

6. Getting Around: Affordable Transportation

• Public Transport: Utilize Turkey’s extensive and affordable public transportation network, including buses, trains, and ferries.
• Travel Passes: Consider purchasing travel passes for unlimited access to public transport in major cities.

7. Local Insights: Tips from the Ground

• Connect with Locals: Engaging with locals can lead to tips on the best affordable spots and hidden gems.
• Language Basics: Learn some basic Turkish phrases. This not only enriches your travel experience but can also help in negotiating prices.

Top Experiences & Tours in Turkey:

• 4 Days Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and Ephesus Tour from Istanbul By Plane & Bus : A compact tour that lets you see major sights without the hassle of planning transport.
• 7-Day Highlights of Turkey Tour : Cover Istanbul, Pamukkale, Ephesus, and Cappadocia, exploring the depths of Turkish history and landscapes.
• 8-Day Turkey Tour Package : Visit Istanbul, Pamukkale, Ephesus, and Cappadocia with ease, exploring the cultural heart of Turkey.
• 9-Day Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, Pamukkale, and Ephesus Tour : A comprehensive tour that blends the best of urban and natural attractions across Turkey.
• 10 Days Istanbul, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Antalya, and Cappadocia Tour : The ultimate experience, perfect for those who want to immerse themselves thoroughly in all that Turkey has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the cheapest month to fly to Turkey? The cheapest months to fly to Turkey are typically during the off-peak season, between November and March.
• Can I visit Turkey’s famous landmarks on a budget? Yes, many of Turkey’s famous landmarks have affordable entry fees, and some are even free to visit.
• Is street food safe to eat in Turkey? Turkish street food is generally safe and delicious. It’s advisable to eat at busy stalls, a sign of fresh and popular food.

The Spirit of Turkish Adventure: A Closing Note

In the land where continents meet, every traveler finds a corner that feels like home. Turkey’s warm hospitality, coupled with its affordability, makes it a treasure trove for the budget-savvy explorer. From the bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the serene beaches of the Aegean, each moment in Turkey promises an enriching experience that doesn’t have to drain your wallet.

Explore Our Top 3 Highly Affordable Turkey Tour Packages

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Türkiye travel advice

Latest updates: Laws and culture – updated information on Ramadan 2025

Last updated: April 15, 2024 14:40 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, türkiye - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Türkiye due to the threat of terrorist attacks and the possibility of demonstrations throughout the country.

Border region with Syria - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to within 10 km of the border with Syria, due to a deteriorating security situation.

Earthquake-affected provinces - Avoid non-essential travel

• Kahramanmaraş

Southeastern provinces - Avoid non-essential travel

• Bingöl

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Protests related to the situation in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip

Since October 17, 2023, protests have been taking place throughout Türkiye due to the ongoing situation in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. Some protesters have targeted and vandalized popular Western-branded businesses and foreign diplomatic missions in Ankara, Istanbul and Adana, especially those of the United States and Israel. The protests have led to confrontations between protesters and security forces, road closures and traffic disruptions.

Additional protests at various locations cannot be ruled out and could pose a risk to your safety, regardless of your nationality.

Turkish authorities have employed enhanced measures to respond to demonstrations, including:

• deploying additional security forces
• using crowd dispersal methods

If you are near an affected area:

• exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings at all times
• expect heightened security measures
• avoid all demonstrations and gatherings
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• plan and use alternative routes

Armed attacks

Turkish authorities remain on alert following armed attacks in Istanbul at the Italian Santa Maria Catholic Church on January 28, 2024 and the Caglayan Courthouse on February 6, 2024.

If you are in Istanbul, you should:

• exercise increased caution
• expect a heightened security presence
• monitor local media

Border with Syria

Extremist groups have carried out attacks at border crossings and other locations in Syria close to the Turkish border. The Turkish government has declared some areas in villages along the border with Syria special security zones as part of cross-border military operations. Expect a heightened military presence and movement restrictions in these areas.

The security situation remains unpredictable.

• Exercise extreme caution
• Review your security measures regularly
• Monitor these events very closely

Southeast region 

Terrorist groups have launched deadly terrorist attacks against Turkish security personnel in several cities and regions in the south and southeast of the country.

• Remain vigilant
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local and international media

There is a risk, particularly to foreigners, of kidnapping in the area (see Kidnapping, below). Maintain a high level of vigilance at all times.

Avoid overland travel. If you must, drive during the day and stay on major roads. Don’t use public transportation.

There is an ongoing threat of terrorism from domestic and international terrorist groups in Türkiye. Many attacks have occurred throughout the country. Although most have occurred in the south and east, some also took place in major cities like Istanbul and Ankara.

Attacks have targeted:

• Turkish military and government facilities
• places of worship
• tourist attractions and popular public places
• nightclubs and entertainment venues
• public transportation

Further attacks may occur, and terrorists may also target:

• crowded places
• places with high pedestrian traffic and where foreigners may gather
• commercial establishments
• local government offices
• public transit stations
• busy streets
• long queues at tourist attractions

Turkish security officials may set up roadblocks or close streets when they receive reports on specific threats. It is common to have a proactive police presence.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times in public places
• Avoid large crowds
• Follow the instructions of local authorities at all times

Mountaineering and hiking

Mount Ararat, between the eastern provinces of Agri and Igdir, is designated a special military zone. You must hire the services of a locally licensed guide agency if you intend to hike in the area. A licensed company will obtain the necessary permits and assign you a registered Mountaineer to accompany you throughout your hike.

If you intend on engaging in mountaineering or hiking:

• never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you’re properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back to camp
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
• obtain detailed information on trekking routes or ski slopes before setting out and do not venture off marked trails

Accurate information on mountain conditions can be difficult to obtain. Weather in mountainous areas can also be unpredictable.

Identification

Random ID checks and ‎roadblocks may take place in large cities and on intercity roads.

Cooperate during ID checks and always carry your passport and visa or residence permit. Failure to produce these documents or non-compliance with Turkish officials during identity checks could result in fines, detainment or deportation.

Turkish authorities have detained and prosecuted large numbers of people over social media posts criticizing the government, state officials, president, military operations, etc. You could be subject to scrutiny if you posted similar comments, even if a post was published years ago or outside of Türkiye.

• Keep in mind the sensitivities
• Think twice before posting or reacting to online content criticizing the government
• Restrain and limit your social media footprint

There is a threat of kidnapping-for-ransom along Türkiye’s borders with Syria and Iraq. Extremist groups take advantage of porous borders and an unpredictable security situation to carry out operations and use kidnapping as a means of raising funds.

They may target the local population, foreigners and even foreign aid workers.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, can occur throughout Türkiye.

• Avoid showing signs of affluence
• Ensure that your belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times
• If travelling by car, keep valuable belongings out of sight, windows closed and doors locked

Muggings, assaults and sexual assaults occur.

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery. Do not accept food and drinks from strangers, even if the wrapping or container appears intact.

Don’t go to down-market bars and neighbourhoods. One scam, particularly common in Istanbul, involves locals inviting tourists to bars for food and drinks and then forcing them to pay a steep bill.

Don’t accept letters, parcels or other items from strangers. Drug traffickers sometimes attempt to convince foreigners to deliver packages and messages into and out of Türkiye.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

If you’re travelling to Türkiye to meet someone you’ve only met online, or the person in Türkiye asks to wire money, you may be the victim of a scam. Don’t send money to someone you have never met in person.

Overseas fraud

Women’s safety

There is a risk of sexual assault.

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Be aware of your surroundings.

Dress conservatively, especially in areas outside major cities and coastal resorts.

Advice for women travellers

Stray animals

There are numerous stray dogs and cats in Türkiye. Dogs often travel in packs and could attack pedestrians and joggers.

Don’t attempt to feed or pet stray animals.

Road safety

Türkiye has a modern road network. However, uneven surfaces and poorly marked lane changes near construction zones, are common.

Exercise caution, especially when driving in the rain. Severe weather conditions may seriously affect road conditions.

Ensure that your vehicle is in good repair. Avoid driving after dark outside of major cities or major roads.

Accidents are common. You may face the following hazards when driving in the country:

• reckless driving
• vehicle breakdown due to poor maintenance practices
• dangerous road conditions
• inadequate lighting
• poor signage
• high-volume traffic congestion

If you come across an accident, don’t slow down or stop to observe.

If you are involved in an accident, lock your doors and windows and call 112 to notify the police.

Don’t move your vehicle until advised to do so by the police, even if your accident results in:

• blocked traffic routes
• injuries to those involved
• a disagreement
• a crowd starting to form

You may be permitted to move your vehicle after communicating with the police if you are on a busy road, once you have taken pictures of the scene.

Although pedestrians officially have the right of way, it may not be the case in practice.

General Directorate of Highways

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Turkish authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the duration of stay indicated on your visa, e-Visa, visa exemption or residence permit.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Work visa: required Tourism visa: not required for stays of up to 90 days in a 180-day period Business visa: required Student visa: required Medical visa: required

If you are travelling to Türkiye to seek medical services, apply for a medical visa through the HealthTürkiye online portal. You should also consult our advice on medical tourism under the  Health  section before applying for a medical visa.

If you are travelling to Türkiye and need a visa, use the official Turkish government site to apply online and purchase an e-visa before entering the country. Be cautious of third-party websites that offer help in getting any type of visa, as they charge additional fees to provide information and submit applications for you. They are not operating on behalf of the Government of Türkiye.

If you plan to study or work in Türkiye, you must obtain a visa at a Turkish embassy or consulate before arriving in Türkiye.

To qualify for a subsequent visa-exempted entry for a 90-day period in Turkiye, you must leave the country for at least 90 days before being allowed to re-enter for another 90 days.

If you wish to remain in Türkiye for longer than 90 consecutive days, you must obtain a residence permit from the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management in the province in which you reside. If you overstay, you might be fined, deported or banned from future travel to Türkiye for a specific period of time.

• E-visa application system  – Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye
• Residency permit applications – Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Türkiye
• HealthTürkiye online portal – Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye

Entry stamp

Ensure Turkish immigration officials stamp your passport on arrival. Failure to produce a stamped passport is punishable by a fine, detention and deportation, and can lead to significant delays at departure.

Dual citizenship

Dual Turkish-Canadian citizens must present a valid Turkish passport or piece of identification to enter the country.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that can cause fever, pain and bleeding under the skin.  In some cases, it can be fatal.  It spreads to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, or from the bite of an infected tick.  Risk is generally low for most travellers.  Protect yourself from tick bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock.  There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical tourism

Medical tourism is common in Türkiye. Canadian travellers have had serious health complications following surgeries abroad. The Turkish government recommends that all travellers seeking medical services select healthcare providers authorized by the Turkish Ministry of Health.

Before leaving for medical travel, you should do your research, especially on:

• the health and financial risks
• medical facilities performing the intended procedure
• language barriers, which can lead to misunderstandings about your medical care and conditions
• travel insurance that includes coverage for the type of medical procedure you will be undergoing

The Turkish authorities established the HealthTürkiye online portal, which provides information to foreigners about medical tourism in Türkiye.

You should discuss your medical plans with your primary healthcare provider in Canada before travelling. 

• Make sure that the healthcare providers you choose are authorized by the Turkish health authorities.
• Ask to see the credentials of the healthcare providers
• Obtain a written agreement detailing the proposed treatment or procedure.
• Receiving medical care outside Canada
• If you become sick or injured while travelling outside Canada or after your return
• Authorized healthcare providers  - Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye (In Turkish)
• International Health Services Call Center  - Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye
• HealthTürkiye – Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye

Medical services and facilities

Modern medical care is available in major cities but may not be in remote areas. Immediate cash payment is often required.

Most provincial and territorial health care programs are extremely limited in the coverage offered abroad. 

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Universal health coverage

Foreigners with residency permits must register for universal health coverage under Turkish Social Security (SGK). Although Canadian citizens are exempt, you may enroll if you have no other coverage and you have been a resident in Türkiye for at least one year.

Universal Health Insurance  - Türkiye's social Security Institution

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Authorities can request to see your ID at any time. If you fail to present valid identification documents upon request, you could face:

• deportation
• entry ban for future travel into Türkiye

During your stay:

• carry the original version (not only photocopies or digital versions) of a valid government-issued ID, such as your passport, at all times.
• keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents in case it is seized or lost
• follow the instructions of the local authorities requesting the documents

If you are temporarily in Türkiye, you should carry a valid passport that contains a Turkish entry stamp and a valid visa.

If you reside in Türkiye, you should carry your Turkish resident ID (Kimlik and/or Ikamet) and a valid passport that contains a Turkish entry stamp and a valid visa.

The use of illegal drugs is prohibited. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

Don't agree to carry any baggage that is not yours.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Lèse-majesté

It is illegal to denigrate, desecrate or insult the following:

• the name or image of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye
• the president of the Republic of Türkiye
• the Turkish flag and the national anthem
• Turkish currency
• State organs and institutions and its judicial bodies
• the police and the military

Religious proselytism

Although religious proselytism is not illegal, some activities may be considered illegal and could lead to detention.

Political discussions

Avoid discussions (including on social media) on historical and religious issues as well as on politics.

• Restrain/limit your social media footprint.

Online activities

Turkish authorities have detained and prosecuted people over social media posts criticizing the government, state officials, president, military operations. You could be subject to scrutiny even if a post was published years ago or outside of Türkiye.

Authorities have also targeted people and groups for:

• publishing statements
• organizing news conferences
• organizing or participating in nonviolent activities
• critical writing and online activism protesting the government, its policies, decisions and actions

Even if a case does not go to trial or ends in acquittal, people can be labelled as terrorism suspects and face adverse consequences due to investigations and criminal proceedings, including possible loss of employment and social exclusion.

Photography

It is forbidden to photograph military or public installations. Avoid photographing public demonstrations or members of police or security forces. Cameras may be confiscated. Do not photograph people without their permission.

Turkish antiquities and other cultural artifacts that are considered of historical value or of national importance cannot be exported. Seek advice from Turkish authorities prior to departure from Türkiye. If the item can be exported, you will require a sales receipt and the official museum export certificate issued by the Turkish customs office.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Turkish law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely socially accepted.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Türkiye.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Türkiye, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Türkiye.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Türkiye, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Turkish court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Türkiye to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Dress and behaviour

Islamic practices and beliefs are closely adhered to in many parts of the country.

In all places of worship, women should cover their head with a scarf and all visitors should cover their arms and legs.

• Dress conservatively, especially in areas outside major cities and coastal resorts
• Behave discreetly
• Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities

In 2025, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 28.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

The currency of Türkiye is the Turkish lira (TRY).

Earthquakes

In February 2023, severe earthquakes struck several provinces in southeastern Türkiye resulting in tens of thousands of casualties and significant damage to critical infrastructure, buildings and private houses. There are reports indicating that most of the affected local populations live in temporary shelters or settlements awaiting reconstruction.

The authorities revoked the state of emergency on May 9, 2023. Recovery work is underway, but the situation remains precarious in the following southern provinces affected by the earthquakes:

If you are in the affected area, you can expect:

• continued telecommunication and electricity disruptions
• frequent aftershocks
• limited food, water and hygiene options
• limited accommodations
• extremely limited transportation options from the disaster area

If you are planning to travel near an affected area despite this advisory:

• monitor local media for the latest developments

Avoid non-essential travel to the provinces affected by the earthquakes as our ability to provide consular assistance to Canadians in that area is severely limited. If you need assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Ankara: 90 (312) 409-2700.

Türkiye is located in an active seismic zone. Landslides are possible in affected areas, and strong aftershocks may occur after the initial earthquake.

Earthquakes - What to Do?

Severe rainstorms occur in various regions around Türkiye, especially in the Black Sea region and coastal areas. Heavy rainfall can cause severe flooding and landslides, resulting in extensive damage to infrastructure and hampering the provision of essential services in the affected areas. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Droughts and snowstorms can also delay travel and disrupt essential services.

Forest fires often occur during the summer months, particularly in provinces on the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts of Türkiye.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of major fire:

• stay away from the affected areas, especially if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

Azerbaijan, Georgia. Offering consular services to Canadians in Iran.

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Türkiye, in Ankara, or the Consulate General of Canada to Türkiye, in Istanbul, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Smart Turkey Tours

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Best Seller: Private Ephesus Tour For Cruise Passangers

Small Group Ephesus Tour for Cruise Passengers

Private Ephesus and Sirince Village Tour for Cruise Passengers

Private Ephesus Full-Day Tour with Turkish Bath Hamam Experience

BEST FOR CRUISER KIDS: Ephesus Excursion

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Smart Turkey Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Türkiye (Turkey)

Home › All Tours › Middle East › Türkiye (Turkey)

Guided package tours that include Türkiye (Turkey):

Treasures of Türkiye (Turkey)

 tour only from

  12 Days

with flights from

  13 Days

Departures: Sep 2024 to Nov 2025

Highlights of Istanbul, Ankara, Cappadocia, Antalya, Pamukkale, Izmir, Ephesus, Canakkale and Troy. View Tour ❯

Three Continents Mediterranean Cruise

Marvel at ancient wonders like the famed Acropolis in Athens, the Pyramids of Giza, and the Library of Celsus at Ephesus. Visit the Old City of Jerusalem, beautiful Cyprus, the island of Rhodes, and more! View Tour ❯

Women-Only: Treasures of Türkiye (Turkey)

Highlights of Istanbul, Ankara, Cappadocia, Antalya, Pamukkale, Izmir, Ephesus, Canakkale and Troy with special women-only immersive experiences. View Tour ❯

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As a specialist Tours Operator, Smart Turkey Tours offer smart solutions to visit Turkey. Tours can be designed as you wish. Private tours have a personal tour guide who, licensed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, will be the same person for all your destinations in Turkey. If you like to meet with new people in each destinations our Small Group Tours just for you!! Small group tours also have tour guide licensed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. You may choose a tour package from our various Turkey Tours..

Do you need advice for Turkey Tours? Check out Turkey Travel Guide .

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Best way to umra and hajj, unbeatable support.

Each booking includes 24/7 support, in case anything comes up and if changes to your itinerary occur, you’ll receive live updates via the Kensington Tours app.

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With deep in-country knowledge, our Destination Experts tailor each experience to your preferences, ensuring you can make the most of your time away.

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Unlock details you may have overlooked with insider information only a local, private guide can offer.

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Popular destination, fairmont clock royal tower.

An impressive location just steps away from the holy Kaaba, make our 5-star rooms and suites at Royal clock tower, A Fairmont hotel Makkah your first choice accommodation for Umrah or Hajj. We have the best views over Kabb or Haram in Makkah

Dar Al Tawhid InterContinental

Dar Al Tawhid InterContinental stands as a distinctive landmark within the white marbles of Al Masjid Al Haram, mere steps from King Fahad Gate and the Holy Kaaba, with easy access for guests to perform Umrah & Hajj.

Swissotel Almaqam Makkah

Overlooking the holy city, Swissotel Al Maqam Makkah stands tall at the heart of the Muslim world. As part of prominent Abraj Al Bait complex, the hotel faces the holy Kaaba and has direct access to to the holy mosque from Ibrahim Al-Khalil street.

Anjum Makkah Hotel

Located in Mecca, Anjum Hotel Makkah offers modern accomodations with views of the Masjid Al Haram. Free WiFi access is available throughout the entire property.

What are the best hotels in Mecca near Al-Masjid al-Haram Mosque?

Verified travelers to Mecca who stayed near Al-Masjid al-Haram Mosque have given top reviews to Batoul Ajyad Hotel, ZamZam Pullman Makkah Hotel and Makkah Clock Royal Tower, A Fairmont Hotel.

Tourist Feedback

My husband booked an umrah package for us with agent honey. He made it extremely easy for us and made our experience so memorable. I would recommend to anyone and everyone.

Helpful in helping me source a flight! Good flexibility to accommodate my personal circumstances. First experience booking a flight this way and it was a pleasant one. Thank you!

Efficient service always! Honey made sure he delivered the best service. Honey made me feel comfortable and made sure I could trust him throughout the whole experience. I will be using him for my future bookings 100%

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Select a country, economy or region to find embassies, country briefs, economic fact sheets, trade agreements, aid programs, information on sanctions and more.

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Foreign Arrangements Scheme  

Trade and investment, about free trade agreements (ftas).

• The benefits of FTAs
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• Look up FTA tariffs and services market access - DFAT FTA Portal
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About foreign investment

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For Australian business

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Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai

Stakeholder engagement.

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Trade and investment data, information and publications

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WTO, G20, OECD, APEC and IPEF and ITAG

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International Labour Mobility

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Supporting organisations in developing countries by matching them with skilled Australians. 

Sports diplomacy

Australia is a successful global leader and innovator in sport.

A global platform for achievement, innovation, collaboration, and cooperation

About Australia

Australia is a stable, democratic and culturally diverse nation with a highly skilled workforce and one of the strongest performing economies in the world.

Australia in Brief publication

This is the 52nd edition of Australia in Brief, revised and updated in February 2021

Travel advice

To help Australians avoid difficulties overseas, we maintain travel advisories for more than 170 destinations.

• Smartraveller – travel advice

International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate

Prove your COVID-19 vaccinations when you travel overseas.

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The Australian Passport Office and its agents are committed to providing a secure, efficient and responsive passport service for Australia.

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24-hour consular emergency helpline

• Within Australia: 1300 555 135
• Outside Australia: +61 2 6261 3305
• Getting help overseas
• Visas for Australians travelling overseas
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Economic and trade information

• Türkiye country brief
• Türkiye Country/Economy Fact Sheet [PDF]
• Action Plan for cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia
• Joint Declaration of Centenary of Commemorations of the Canakkale/ Gallipoli Land Battles of 1915 and Associated Cultural Exchanges Between Türkiye and Australia
• Read the travel advice for Türkiye
• Subscribe to updates
• Get the right travel insurance
• For how we can help Australians overseas, see the Consular services charter
• Australian Passports Office
• Visa information

Heads of Government

• Includes Heads of State, Prime Ministers, Foreign, Trade and Aid Ministers .

Embassies and consulates

• Australian Embassy in Türkiye
• Australian Embassy Türkiye, website
• Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye
• Consulates-General of the Republic of Türkiye

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade seeks your feedback on the information provided on Europe. Please contact us by:

• Mail : Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Southern Europe Section Northern, Southern and Eastern Europe Branch RG Casey Building John McEwen Crescent BARTON ACT 0221
• Fax : (02) 6261 2176 / 6261 2990
• Email : [email protected]

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Travel Advice for Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories

There's a high threat of military and terrorist attacks against Israel and Israeli interests across the region. The ongoing military action in the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in other locations in the Middle East. The security situation could deteriorate quickly, with little or no notice.

Consular assistance

The Consular Services Charter outlines the consular services and assistance provided by the Australian Government to travellers overseas. Read the Charter to understand how we can and can't help. 

Consular Services Charter (PDF 195.79 KB)

Notarial services

Do you need a document legalised, or a Certificate of No Impediment for your upcoming marriage? The Australian Government can provide some notarial services.

Travel insurance

 If you're going overseas, travel insurance is as important as a passport. If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. Read our advice, and download the CHOICE travel insurance guide before you go.

CHOICE travel insurance buying guide 2023 (PDF 3.52 MB)

News and updates

Anzac day 2024.

On 25 April, Anzac Day services will be held in major cities and at international war memorials. If you're travelling to attend a service, be prepared and know what to expect.

• Major events

Sun, sand and surgery: travelling for medical tourism

Planning to go overseas for a medical procedure? Do your research before you commit. Don't decide on cost alone.

Have adventures, not regrets

Recent research found that Smartraveller is a trusted source of advice. But it also found that Australians still take unnecessary risks when they head overseas, especially with travel insurance.

Travelling during Ramadan

Muslim countries around the world will soon be observing Ramadan. If you're visiting a Muslim country during Ramadan, research your destination before you arrive to learn what to expect.

• Middle East

Travel advice explained

Learn what our advice levels mean and how we decide what level to apply to each destination. 

Passport services

With passport demand on the rise, don't leave your application to the last minute.

Allow a minimum of six weeks to get a new passport or renew one.

Coming back to Australia

Know what to do and what expect when you're heading home from your trip overseas. 

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