tour within turkey

Turkey Vacation & Tour Packages

Overflowing with Mediterranean energy and Middle Eastern hospitality, Turkey feels like a continent unto itself.

With Greco-Roman ruins, a sun-drenched Turquoise Coast , tiny hillside villages, delicately decorated minarets, and the world’s most spectacular historic mosques – Turkey is impossible to pigeonhole. If you know where to look among the shifting mountain backdrops, you’ll find one-of-a-kind sights and experiences that will set up camp in your heart. Break bread (and the fast) with new friends during Ramazan in the courtyard of the 17th-century Blue Mosque. Explore the hand-forged cave churches of Cappadocia in a landscape of towering wind-carved fairy chimneys. Sink your teeth into a gozleme filled with veggies you pulled from the dirt yourself. Discover Turkey with a local who is passionate about the land they call home.

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Turkey Highlights

Cappadocia Short Break

Taste of Istanbul

Articles of Turkey

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Turkey’s most underrated experience: mountain biking in Cappadocia

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Hamams and hot-air balloons: What it’s like getting around Turkey as a plus-size traveller

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Turkey departures by month

Popular regions, turkey at a glance, capital city.

Ankara (5.6 million)

(GMT+02:00) Athens, Bucharest, Istanbul

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Turkey

Culture and customs.

Turkey has a strong national identity and both its location and the legacy of the Ottoman Empire have contributed to a cultural mix of influences from  Europe ,  Asia  and the  Middle East . Cultural practices vary significantly depending on which region of Turkey you are travelling in. It's important to remember that while most Turkish cities are modern metropolises, Turks can still be quite traditional.

Travelers will find Turkish people to be polite and quite formal in their greetings, kind and hospitable as hosts and friendly as new acquaintances. While bars and nightclubs are common in big cities like Istanbul, outside of these environments it’s a good idea to take your cues from the locals and behave in a subdued manner. This doesn’t mean you can’t have fun, but raucous behavior should be contained to the appropriate venues and kept off the street.

While Turkey is nominally secular, the vast majority of the population identifies as Muslim and Islamic holidays like Ramazan (Ramadan) and Eid are widely observed and recognized as public holidays.

How to be a respectful traveler in Turkey

• Clean your plate If you’re eating with locals (particularly as a guest in their home), you’ll make them very happy if you eat multiple servings and finish everything on your plate. Plan ahead and arrive on an empty stomach for extra points.
• Know when to haggle Remember the first rule of bartering is to decide how much you’re willing to spend beforehand and use that as your guide. In regular shops – as opposed to markets – don’t attempt to haggle over prices.
• Respect the elderly Small gestures like letting elderly folks go ahead of you through doors, offering them your seat on public transport and generally being considerate and respectful of older people will be greatly appreciated.
• Keep criticism private It’s a good rule of thumb not to criticize the culture, government or politics of Turkey. While not all Turks are strict nationalists, you could cause a lot of trouble and offense. You should especially avoid discussing topics related to the Kurdish or Armenian people. When in doubt, follow the conversational lead of the locals. If you’re traveling with Intrepid, ask your leader for guidance. If you’re after a little insight into the geopolitical complexities of Turkey, check out the 'further reading' list below for some perspectives from Turkish authors.

History and government

Ancient history.

There is evidence of hominin habitation in the region known as Anatolia, or Asian Turkey, that dates as far back as 500,000 years and ample evidence of numerous Neolithic settlements popping up between 8000 and 10,000 years ago. 

Notable civilizations who occupied the prehistoric Anatolian region were the Hattians (circa 2500 BC to 2000 BC), the Hittites (circa 1700 BC to 1200 BC) and the Assyrians. From around 2000 BC, Greeks began settling in north-western Anatolia and the southern coasts, establishing individual city-states.

Pre-modern history

The majority of Anatolia was conquered by Alexander the Great in 334 BC. After his death, a succession of various Greek-Macedonian rulers controlled the area until 133 BC when the region was given to the Roman Republic.

Roman control had little impact on the dominant classical Greek culture, which continued to thrive in Anatolia until the region’s absorption into the Byzantine Empire.

Between the sixth and 11th centuries a massive wave of what is known as the ‘Turkic migration’ occurred, and millions traveled across Central Asia into Europe and the Middle East . Among this migratory wave were various Turkic tribes who brought the Islamic religion and Turkic languages that dominate modern Turkey.

The Byzantine Empire sustained a number of invasions and limped forward before finally collapsing in the 14th century, by which point much of Anatolia was already controlled by tribal micro-kingdoms. One of these Turkic tribal groups, the Ottomans, emerged as the dominant regional power during the 15th century and enjoyed a few hundred years of expansion and growth until territorial losses forced its eventual decline in the 19th century.

20th century

The final dissolution of the Ottoman Empire after defeat at the hands of the Allies in WWI was followed by a brief period of Allied occupation before the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923.

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk became the republic’s first president and introduced radical reforms to modernize Turkey and imbue it with a unique identity that was separate from that of the former empire. His ideas continue to be influential in contemporary politics today.

In the decades since the death of Ataturk in 1938, Turkey has seen a number of swings between democratic and autocratic governance, interrupted by brief periods of military governance and occasional political chaos.

Turkey today is a presidential republic where the ruling political parties have historically been nationalist and somewhat economically liberal, with a varying amount of Islamic influence. 

Far-left political activist groups and minority rebel groups have waxed and waned in terms of public and political influence. The most notable is the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), a militant political group originally formed with the intention of creating a Kurdish separatist state. The arrest of PKK founder Abdullah Ocalan in 1999 was a crushing blow to the once-powerful group, though they continue to operate with the stated aim of ensuring the rights and autonomy of the Kurdish people in Turkey and beyond.   

More recently, Turkey has experienced relative prosperity and political stability, though the economy – based on mineral mining, agriculture, tourism and construction – continues to fluctuate between growth and stasis.

Eating and drinking

Home to some of the tastiest produce you can get your hands on, traditional cooking methods and influence from Asia, Europe and the Middle East, Turkey’s food is surprising, delicious and delightful (pun definitely intended).

Plant-based options

Many Turkish favorites are already non-meat. Gozleme, simit and cig kofte are all vegetarian and easy to find in markets, street corner food stands and restaurants. Vegans will have a trickier time finding pre-made dishes that contain no animal products. However, Turkey has an abundance of markets selling fresh produce, bread and extras like hummus and fava bean dip. With a little planning, vegans will be able to assemble meze-style lunches when pre-made options aren’t available.

In dishes like soups and stews it’s a good idea to watch out for beef stock – called et suyu – as it is used frequently even in ‘vegetarian’ dishes.

Must-try Turkish dishes and beverages

• Gozleme This spinach and cheese pastry is a tasty budget-friendly bite that will satisfy everyone (especially vegetarians).
• Lokum Love it or hate it, this divisive treat (known internationally as Turkish delight) can be found in shops, bazaars and street stalls nearly everywhere in Turkey. Made from rosewater, lemon, sugar, cornflour and water, it's relatively easy to make… and even easier to eat.
• Simit As far as quick and easy snacks go it’s hard to pass up simit, a bread similar to a sesame-encrusted bagel. Carts selling simit can be found at bus and train stations, main streets and other busy thoroughfares in most cities.
• Cig kofte Made with bulgur, onion, tomato paste and spices, this south-eastern specialty is essentially a big ol’ vegetarian ‘meatball’. The traditional kind (made with raw meat) is now banned, so you can eat without fear of food poisoning.
• Fish sandwiches Particularly if you’re spending time in the Bosphorus, a fish sandwich (or balik ekmek) is a must-try local dish. Made with white fish, onion and salad, it’s a simple classic that hits the spot.
• Manti Though the ingredients that fill these handmade dumplings vary, the best kind are filled with lamb and served with yogurt and butter. It’s hard to move after polishing off a plate, but so worth it.
• Turkish coffee Turkish coffee is known around the world for its unique brewing method. It's made with arabica beans which are ground into a fine powder and boiled with cardamom and water in a cevze – a pretty copper or brass pot with a long, thin handle.

Learn more about what to drink in Turkey

Turkey travel highlights

One of the best-preserved classical cities in the Eastern Mediterranean and arguably the greatest Greco-Roman site in the world, the ruins of Ephesus are essential viewing for amateur historians.

Turkey Highlights, 8 days

Turkey: Bike & Kayak, 12 days

Boasting incredible Roman ruins and a harbor that proves the term ‘Turquoise Coast’ is well-deserved, Antalya is a sophisticated slice of Mediterranean Turkey.  

Turkey Encompassed, 15 days

Essential Turkey, 11 days

3. Istanbul

People are passionate about Istanbul. Allow at least a few days to explore the sights of this continent-straddling city and discover the indefinable quality that inspires such devotion.

Taste of Istanbul, 3 days

Best of Turkey, 15 days

Turkey Real Food Adventure, 11 days

 The main base for exploring stunning Cappadocia, Goreme has many buildings that are carved into the same soft volcanic rock that forms the fairy chimneys and spires the region is famous for.

Turkey Uncovered, 14 days

Cappadocia Short Break, 4 days

5. Mt Nemrut

Hike to the summit of this remote mountain and you’ll be rewarded with the ruins of an ancient mausoleum, including gigantic stone heads which are all that remain of epic statues of various gods.

Turkey Backroads, 5 days

Turkey Explored, 18 days

Cruise to the sunken city of Kekova, where you can swim and snorkel in crystal blue waters, taste fabulous local cuisine, float over an ancient sunken city or explore Lycian tombs.

Geography and environment

A fairly mountainous country sharing borders with Bulgaria , Greece , Syria, Iraq, Iran , Armenia , Georgia and Azerbaijan , Turkey also has wide stretches of coastline along the Aegean, Mediterranean and Black Seas.

Blessed with large tracts of fertile soil, Turkey is one of the world's biggest agricultural producers, and visitors can expect to see many farms, orchards, plantations and areas of permanent crops occupying certain regions.

Due to its location, Turkey is home to a wide variety of landscapes, from the rocky, forested coastline of the Black Sea region to the fertile plateaus of the Marmara, the white sand beaches of the Aegean and the limestone formations of the Mediterranean. Adding further environmental diversity, the Anatolia highlands (considered the heartland of the country) feature rugged snow-capped peaks and crystalline lakes.

With one of the biggest bazaars in the world, flea markets aplenty and a cutting-edge contemporary fashion scene in the bigger cities, shopping in Turkey is more diverse than you might think.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country, particularly perishable items. Australia and New Zealand, for example, generally have strict quarantine laws.

A note on ceramics

While beautifully decorated tiles and ceramics overflow from Turkey’s market stalls, you should keep in mind that their point of origin can be hard to decipher. In other words, watch out for fakes. The real deal tends to be pretty expensive (but worth it, if you ask us). Of course, if you’re just after something pretty to remind you of your travels, don’t feel too bad about reaching for the inexpensive option.

Things to buy in Turkey

• Handwoven carpets Turkish carpets are a worldwide phenomenon and represent centuries of artistic tradition woven into a beautiful work of art. Go in with an idea of how much you’re willing to pay and don’t be afraid to bargain a little. Just keep in mind that quality craftsmanship deserves to be rewarded with a fair price. A lot of vendors and stores will give you the carpet in a bag suitable to transport as luggage, or you might consider shipping it back home.
• Nazar boncuk (evil eye talisman) Want to bring home a little piece of Turkey and ward off evil spirits and intentions at the same time? An evil eye talisman is a perfect thing. You’ll see these little blue ‘eyes’ in every shop and the majority of Turks carry one with them wherever they go.
• Jewelry Turkey's artisan-made gold and silver earrings, rings and bracelets are good buys. Bazaars, boutiques, museum gift shops and silversmiths offer a wide range of designs from modern to Ottoman-inspired.
• Brass and copper You can find an assortment of brass and copper decorative objects for the home in the bazaars of Turkey. Serving platters, pitchers, trays, pots and urns will add some souvenir flair to your kitchen.

Festivals and events

If you want an adventure with a point of difference, consider planning your travels to coincide with these popular events.

Whether or not you want to travel during Ramazan (Ramadan) will depend on what kind of adventure you’re after. If you love immersing yourself in local culture and religious practices (and don’t mind a little inconvenience) you might just find traveling during this holy month a fascinating and enriching experience. While the days are dedicated to fasting and contemplation, the evenings are full of colorful celebration and, of course, feasting! Plus, there are fewer tourists around to compete with.

Anniversary of the Anzac campaign

Thousands of people head to Gallipoli every year to pay their respects to fallen Australian , New Zealand and Turkish soldiers who died during the bloody Gallipoli campaign of WWI. The moving dawn ceremony is an iconic event that grows in popularity each year, so if you're hoping to head to Gallipoli in April for Anzac Day, plan ahead.

Efes Pilsen One Love Festival

This annual summer music festival held in Istanbul presents two days of rock, pop, folk and electronic entertainment for masses of locals and visitors keen on soaking up some tunes and summer love.

Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Championships

Want to see thousands of oiled-up men wrestle and grapple with each other? Then this is the festival for you! This wrestling championship is held over several days, usually in late June, when Turkey's national sport is celebrated with gusto and fanfare. Apart from the one-on-one wrestling bouts, there’s Romani bands, traditional food and belly dancers providing the perfect sideshow attractions.

Cappadox Festival

Set in the otherworldly landscape of Cappadocia, this eco-friendly music festival features artists and musicians performing on solar-powered stages and inside the ancient caves that the region is famous for. Held around June, the festival was originally an annual event but has moved to a biennial timetable.

Learn more about festivals in Turkey

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Turkey adventure, check out these books:

• Turkey: A Short History – Norman Stone
• The Bastard of Istanbul – Elif Shafak
• Last Train to Istanbul – Ayse Kulin
• Poems of Nazim Hikmet – Nazim Hikmet
• Istanbul: Memories and the City – Orhan Pamuk
• Portrait of a Turkish Family – Irfan Orga
• A Fez of the Heart – Jeremy Seal
• Turkish Coast Through Writers' Eyes – Rupert Scott (ed.)

Similar destinations

Thinking about a trip to Turkey but still browsing other destinations? Or, maybe you've already traveled to the crossroads of Europe and Asia and you're looking for somewhere similar? Check out tours to neighboring locations:

• Greece tours
• Cyprus tours
• Bulgaria tours

Turkey travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do you need a visa to travel to Turkey?

You may need a visa to enter Turkey depending on where you’re from. Foreign nationals from several countries will need an e-visa that allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, including:

• South Africa

Travelers from many countries – including  New Zealand , the  United Kingdom , Denmark, Finland, France, Germany,  Japan , Norway, Sweden and  Switzerland  – don’t require a visa for stays of less than three months if the trip is for tourism or business purposes.

When is the best time to visit Turkey?

The best time to visit Turkey is typically during the shoulder seasons of March to May or September to October when the temperatures are still warm and there aren't yet large summer crowds.

For the best beach weather, the hottest time of year is June and July, however, this collides with the summer holidays, so it will be busy.

The cooler months are quieter and accommodation (when still open) is cheaper.

If you are planning to travel to the eastern reaches of Turkey during Ramadan/Ramazan, it’s important to consider that many restaurants and shops will either be closed or operating at reduced hours. However, the carnival atmosphere that erupts when the fast breaks in the evening is magical, so travelers who enjoy immersive cultural experiences might prefer to travel during the holy month.

What's the weather like in Turkey?

The weather in Turkey depends on the time of year and region you're visiting. The southern coastlines typically experience a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and wet winters, while the interior regions can experience drastic temperature changes and even snow.

If you're planning on swimming, the water is generally still warm up until the start of November and October is great as it's much quieter.

Weather in Istanbul is fairly temperate, sheltered from severe weather by its proximity to the coastlines.

Is tipping customary in Turkey?

While tipping isn't mandatory in Turkey, a cash tip that equals a small percentage of the total bill is very much appreciated in restaurants.

It's also customary to tip staff while visiting hammams (bathhouses). It's not necessary to tip taxi drivers, although rounding up the fare for convenience is commonplace.

What is the internet access like in Turkey?

Free wi-fi is common in Turkey’s cities, but the quality of connection varies. Alternatively, Turkey has an abundance of internet cafes in large cities, and most of them serve coffee and snacks so you can refuel while you catch up with folks back home.

Internet access can be spotty or non-existent in rural areas, so it’s best to treat travel in these regions as an opportunity for a digital detox. 

Can I use my mobile phone while in Turkey?

Mobile phone coverage is good in Turkey, especially in large cities. Coverage may not be available in more remote areas. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your mobile carrier before you leave home if you wish to use your mobile.

What are the toilets like in Turkey?

Turkey has a mix of Western-style and squat-style toilets, sometimes with a jug of water for manual flushing. The latter becomes more common the more remote the region, however, there's typically a Western-style toilet in every bathroom.

Toilets are known as WCs (short for water closets) in Turkey.

Many public toilets require a small payment of roughly 2-10 TRY for use, so make sure you carry change when out and about.

You may find the standards of hygiene and sanitation in Turkey are laxer than you are used to so it's a good idea to carry toilet paper and hand sanitiser if you are concerned.

What will it cost for a…?

Turkey's unit of currency is the lira (TRY). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

• Half-litre of beer = 50-60 TRY
• Simit (local bread roll) = 10 TRY
• Casual restaurant meal = 300 TRY
• Mid-range restaurant meal = 600 TRY
• Basic hammam visit = 1000 + TRY/50 EURO

Can I drink the water in Turkey?

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Turkey. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water or carry water purification tablets with you. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and to peel fruit and vegetables rather than eating washed or unwashed produce.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Turkey?

Major credit cards are widely accepted in tourist shopping areas and large hotels in Turkey, but are less commonly accepted by smaller vendors, in remote towns and rural areas. We recommend carrying cash for purchases to avoid being caught out.

What is ATM access like in Turkey?

ATMs are available in large cities in Turkey but are not common in rural areas and smaller towns. Be prepared for this by having enough cash before traveling out of the city.

What to wear in Turkey

Turkey can get quite warm in summer and during the shoulder seasons but it’s important to remember that clothing that covers you from elbows to below the knee is appropriate in (or even around) mosques. Think linen pants, lightweight tops/shirts and long dresses. Female travelers should also carry a scarf on them to wear when visiting mosques.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Turkey?

• 1 January New Year's Day
• 23 April National Sovereignty and Children's Day
• 1 May Labour Day
• 19 May Youth & Sports Day
• 15 July Democracy and National Unity Day
• 30 August Victory Day
• 29 October Republic Day

View a full list of public holidays in Turkey .

The 30-day Islamic holy month of Ramazan (Ramadan) is widely observed in Turkey. The exact dates change every year, so it’s important you check when Ramazan will take place in the year you plan to travel. As a general rule, there are five consecutive public holidays observed at the beginning of the month and a few observed at the end.

The level of celebration varies considerably depending on what part of Turkey you are in. The east has a larger Muslim population and therefore a more devoutly observed Ramazan, whereas the southern and western coasts will be less affected.

Kurban (Eid al-Adha)

A four to five-day public holiday is observed during Kurban (Eid al-Adha), though like Ramazan the exact dates of this observation change every year.

Is Turkey safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

LGBTQIA+ travelers should be aware that while Turkey is nominally secular it can also be very conservative. As such, negative attitudes towards LGBTQIA+ individuals are common, particularly outside major cities.  

While same-sex relationships and non-normative gender presentation are not against the law in Turkey, LGBTQIA+ people have no legally enshrined protection from discrimination. Legal prohibitions against ‘ offenses against public morality’ can and have been used to persecute LGBTQIA+ folks, though the likelihood of this being used to target travelers is low.

Transgender travelers, in particular, should be aware that trans people in Turkey report being the targets of violence and overt discrimination. 

Istanbul and Ankara have established queer scenes, both of which are primarily oriented around cisgender gay men and to a lesser extent cisgender gay women. However, same-sex couples are still unlikely to engage in public displays of affection in these cities.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Turkey accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

While infrastructure is improving, much of Turkey remains difficult to navigate for wheelchair users and people with mobility concerns. Many cities in Turkey have been occupied for thousands of years and their design reflects that, with little regard given to making streets and attractions accessible. Travelers with impaired mobility will find that while tourist locales in Istanbul, such as hotels and mosques, are fitted with ramps and connected by an accessible tram, getting around the rest of the city can be challenging. Rural regions like Cappadocia will be difficult for travelers with mobility impairment to navigate independently. 

Squat toilets remain the norm in many parts of Turkey, which can pose problems for travelers with certain disabilities.

Traffic in Turkey can be chaotic, and even when traffic lights and pedestrian crossings exist drivers do not always obey them. Taxis are, for the most part, not wheelchair-friendly.         

Travelers who use battery-operated hearing aids should consider bringing a stash of extra batteries, as they can be difficult to locate in Turkey.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

Does my trip to Turkey support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Turkey directly support our foundation partner, C ontemporary Life Support Association (CYDD) . 

Contemporary Life Support Association (CYDD) provide scholarships and educational programs for economically disadvantaged youth in Turkey. Donations from our trips fund a program where young scholarship awardees undertake outreach workshops with marginalized children in regional villages. Workshops include information sessions on gender equality, health, law, culture, and other human rights topics.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

What kind of accommodation will I be staying in?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in Turkey you may find yourself staying in a:

These locally run guesthouses are the perfect blend of a comfortable homestay and a hotel, combining well-situated and authentic Turkish accommodation with modern conveniences.

Immerse yourself in local village life and enjoy Turkish hospitality (and food) during a homestay. Share a home-cooked meal with your hosts and embrace the slow life.

How will I be traveling around Turkey?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport – which usually have less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending what trip you're on while in Turkey, you may find yourself traveling by:

Explore the rugged beauty of Turkey’s coast on a traditional Turkish sailing gulet. Spend days exploring submerged ruins and nights cozied up on deck under the stars.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

• Europe Tours
• Turkey Tours

Turkey Tours and Trips 2024/2025

Chances are you have seen breathtaking photos of hot air balloons floating above Cappadocia or shots of the spectacular Blue Mosque in Istanbul. Turkey tours are fascinating, including those offering glimpses into its Ottoman history. Whether you are looking to travel on our new Turkey group tours , create an experience that is all your own on our Turkey private tours , or splurge on one of our Turkey luxury tours , we deliver tours that meet your every need.

• Turkey Travel Guide
• Best Time to Visit Turkey
• Top 14 Things to do in Turkey

+300 Trips in Turkey with 344 Reviews

• Starts Istanbul, Turkey
• Ends Istanbul, Turkey

Amazing Turkey by Land (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Walking tours 'data-more-tripid='14725'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Transport Boat, Bus, Coach & Flight
• Age Range 18-39 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,862
• Special Deal (45%): - US$ 1,288
• Total Price from: US$ 1,574
• May 11 10+ seats left
• May 18 10+ seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Best of Turkey

• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture , Hot springs , Countryside and village visits , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Cruise & Museum and gallery visits 'data-more-tripid='3127'>+6 more
• Accommodation Resort, Guest House & Hotel
• Transport Train, Bus, Minibus, Taxi & Boat
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,750
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 412
• Total Price from: US$ 2,338
• Apr 22 Only 8 seats left
• Apr 25 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Ankara, Turkey

Turkey ExclusiveTour

• Free cancellation
• Trip customizable
• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Museum and gallery visits 'data-more-tripid='23756'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Boat
• Age Range 6-85 yrs
• Operated in English, Turkish
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,200
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 330
• Total Price from: US$ 1,870

Turkey Highlights

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits & Train tours 'data-more-tripid='18192'>+2 more
• Transport Train, Bus, Flight & Minibus
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,780
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 178
• Total Price from: US$ 1,602
• Apr 16 Only 4 seats left
• Apr 18 Only 3 seats left

Magic Carpet Tour

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Museum and gallery visits 'data-more-tripid='18280'>+1 more
• Transport Private Vehicle
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Apr 06 10+ seats left
• Apr 13 10+ seats left

The Best of Turkey

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture , Walking tours & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='4993'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Guest House & Resort
• Transport Flight, Boat, Bus, Private Vehicle & Ferry
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,199
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 120
• Total Price from: US$ 1,079
• Apr 14 Only 4 seats left
• May 12 Only 6 seats left

Turkey Encompassed

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Walking tours Cultural, religious and historic sites , Walking tours , Museum and gallery visits & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='3124'>+2 more
• Transport Boat, Bus, Flight & Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,295
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 1,074
• Total Price from: US$ 3,221
• Apr 10 Only 3 seats left
• Apr 15 Only 4 seats left

Popular Destinations in Turkey

Essential Turkey (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Transport Bus, Coach & Boat
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,482
• Special Deal (45%): - US$ 1,117
• Total Price from: US$ 1,365

Best of Turkey by Land (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='14727'>+2 more
• Transport Boat, Bus & Coach
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,052
• Special Deal (45%): - US$ 1,373
• Total Price from: US$ 1,679

Absolutely Turkey

• Activities City sightseeing & Museum and gallery visits City sightseeing , Museum and gallery visits & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='40669'>+1 more
• Transport Coach, Ferry, Private Vehicle & Bus
• Age Range 6-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,925
• Special Deal (50%): - US$ 963
• Total Price from: US$ 962
• Apr 08 10+ seats left
• Apr 15 10+ seats left

Highlights of Turkey

• Transport Private Vehicle, Boat & Flight
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Apr 20 Only 1 seat left
• May 18 Only 7 seats left

Turkey Unplugged - 10 Days

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='16115'>+2 more
• Age Range 18-80 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,275
• Special Deal (35%): - US$ 796
• Total Price from: US$ 1,479
• Apr 27 Only 8 seats left

Aegean Delight Tour

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Cruise & Museum and gallery visits 'data-more-tripid='18271'>+2 more
• Transport Flight & Private Vehicle
• Apr 13 Only 8 seats left

Absolute Turkey

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & City sightseeing Cultural, religious and historic sites , City sightseeing , Museum and gallery visits & Local culture 'data-more-tripid='4991'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Home-stay
• Transport Boat, Bus, Ferry & Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,899
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 380
• Total Price from: US$ 1,519
• Apr 04 Only 5 seats left
• Apr 07 Only 2 seats left

Traveling to Turkey? Chat with a local travel specialist in Turkey who can help organize your trip.

Turkey Tour Reviews

• Melany Aldana

Traveller Photos for Trips in Turkey

Turkey - Tour Highlights and Travel Tips

Tour Highlights

• Take the Bosphorus cruise in Istanbul and appreciate the city skyline dotted with spires of countless mosques.
• Tour the Historic Peninsula of Istanbul, which abounds with Byzantine and Turkish structures.
• Visit the Topkapi Sarayi in Istanbul, a longtime residence of the Ottoman sultans.
• Lay eyes on rich Christian and Islamic artwork in the splendid Hagia Sophia, Istanbul.
• Discover Goreme in Cappadocia on foot and from the balloon. The region is an open-air museum renowned for interesting rock formations and Christian churches in cavities of large rocks.
• Enjoy calcium-filled waters that flow over white travertine terraces in Pamukkale, the mineral-bath spa. Pamukkale is the UNESCO site, located next to ancient Hierapolis, the Greco-Roman spa town.
• In the Turkish capital of Ankara, take a look at items and artifacts exhibited in the Anatolian Civilizations Museum.
• Visit spectacular and peaceful Oludeniz Beach and enjoy scuba diving, jet skiing and paragliding that reveals marvelous vistas.

Travel Tips

• Turks are great hosts and you will be welcomed regardless of your background.
• Just pay attention not to show disrespect to national symbols and local customs and you shouldn’t have problems.
• Same sex relationships are still not fully accepted in Turkey. Try to avoid same sex PDA.
• ATMs are available in most cities. You won’t have trouble to use your credit and debit cards in the tourist resorts and cities.
• Traffic in Istanbul tends to be chaotic, so pay close attention when you cross the street.

Turkey has seasonal weather so please do check up on the  best time to visit Turkey  before planning your tour. And if you’re still hunting for more things to do and places to explore in Turkey, do check out our Turkey Travel Guide for more information.

Popular Tour Types in Turkey

• Turkey private tours:  If you are looking to explore this beautiful country with a personalized touch, our Turkey private tours are for you. Hike to the outstanding town of Rize or witness the iconic hot air balloons at Cappadocia at your own convenience and comfort. You will get to see and experience everything you want in Turkey, without large tour groups to crowd your holiday experience.
• Turkey group tours:  Looking to make new friends and explore the vast history and culture of Turkey? Book onto one of our Turkey group tours , where you can wander the bazaars of Istanbul or learn more about the history at Ephesus, and more!
• Turkey luxury tours:  If you are feeling like splurging on your Turkish holiday, why not opt for one of our Turkey high-end tours . Stay in 4 and 5-star hotels throughout your travel period while indulging in Turkey’s rich hammam culture and learning about the country’s storied past at sights like Gallipoli.
• Turkey customized tours:  Sometimes you just want something a little more bespoke when it comes to traveling. Speak to our travel experts and create your dream Turkey tour, from sailing around the shores of Bodrum to historical walking tours of the ruins of Ephesus and beyond. You dream it, and we will make it come true with our Turkey tailor made tours .
• Turkey family tours:  Traveling with little ones in tow? Find activities and excursions to suit the whole gang with our Turkey family tours . From immersing yourself in the culture in Ankara to enjoying the open water on a boat trip from Fethiye, our family tours are made to ensure fun times for kids and adults alike.
• Turkey budget tours:  With more wallet-friendly accommodation items and plenty of optional excursions to take part in at your leisure, our Turkey budget tours are a great way to experience the country’s rich culture, all on a shoestring budget.

Activity Based Turkey Tours

• Turkey history tours :  From ancient Greeks to the Ottoman empire, Turkey is filled to the brim with historical landmarks and artifacts. With influences from Europe, the Middle East and Asia, there is a lot to see and learn. See the ruins of temples in Ephesus and the Trojan horse in Troy to get your fill of medieval history.
• Turkey adventure tours:  It is a well known fact that Turkey is a cultural melting pot with amazing food, historical landmarks and temples, but not many people know that it is also a great destination for adventure junkies. Go scuba diving in the Aegean, sail the Black Sea, zip down the rugged landscape on a bike or take to the sky on a hot-air balloon on your Turkish adventure tour .
• Turkey sightseeing tours:  Natural as well as man-made marvels, Turkey has it all. See the unique fairy chimney rock formations in Cappadocia and then head to Istanbul to marvel at the Hagia Sophia. Then, wrap your head around the sheer genius of Roman architects in your trip to the ancient amphitheater in Ephesus on Turkey sightseeing tours .
• Turkey cruise tours :  Turkey boasts a long and beautiful coastline, and one of the best ways to see the country is by hitting the water on a cruise. From bigger ferries to small, sleek, and private Gulet sailboats, there are plenty of options to enjoy. There are also plenty of rivers and canals, such as around Kemer, that are worth exploring during your Turkey holiday.
• Turkey beach tours:  Turkey has a warm and sunny climate, making it an ideal destination for a beach holiday. Soak up the sun in Kas, journey around the coast in Fethiye, or go to the beach parties in Bodrum. Whatever beachside vibe you are looking for, our Turkey beach tours can provide.
• Turkey hiking tours:  Turkey’s diverse and scenic landscapes offer plenty of amazing hikes and long distance trails. Follow the coast from Marmaris, complete the iconic Lycian Way, or hit up the Turquoise Coast for an outstanding backdrop to your trek on one of Turkey hiking tours .

Popular Durations for a Turkey Trip

Turkey Tours - Top Destinations To Visit

• Marvel at Turkish architecture in Istanbul:  A cultural treasure trove, Istanbul is one of the most popular destinations among travelers visiting Turkey. Explore this amazing city on a guided tour and learn everything about Turkish architecture. Visit sites like Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern. These landmarks have influences from the Byzantine, Genoese, and Ottoman empires. Explore these sites at your own pace by booking an Istanbul tour .
• Fly in a hot-air balloon in Cappadocia:  If you look for Turkey, you are bound to find an image of hot-air balloons flying high over rugged landscapes in Cappadocia. But that is not all this place is. Discover the ancient underground cities of Derinkuyu and Kaymakli and take a hike in the Ihlara Valley and explore its deep gorges. Every picture you take on these sites will be postcard worthy. Book your tour to Cappadocia now.
• Relax in a thermal pool in Pamukkale:  Famous for its mineral-rich thermal pools, Pamukkale is the perfect place to relax your travel-weary feet. Right next to Pamukkale is Hierapolis, where you can see ancient ruins and visit the archeology museum to see the artifacts from the Roman times. So, on your Turkish trip, do make it a point fo visiting Pamukkale .
• Sunbathe in the amazing beaches in Antalya:  The ancient port city of Antalya is home to some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world. This is also a resort city where you can walk on the cobblestone streets which lead you to museums with artifacts of the classical era, ruins from the period of Alexander the Great, and snaking rivers which are ideal for rafting. Your holiday to Antalya is bound to be a great one.
• Explore Turkish history in Ephesus:  Known as Selcuk in the present day, Ephesus is heaven for a history buff. Located in the Central Aegean coast, Ephesus is home to several Greco-Roman ruins. Explore the Library of Celsus, see the Ephesus amphitheater, and marvel at the ancient paintings and mosaics. Ephesus is also a city with deep Christian ties. It is believed that it was in Ephesus where seven Christian followers (Seven Sleepers) hid inside a cave to escape religious persecution and woke up 200 years later.
• Go on a cruise in the Black Sea Region:  Want to spend your time on a cruise? A tour to the Black Sea Region is ideal for exactly this. Go island hopping, view Sumela Monastery, visit the city of Trabzon and relax on the beach in the scenic coastal area. But the sea is not the only thing on offer if you are traveling in this region. If you are a tea lover, head to the tea plantations in Rize. Enjoy the beautiful landscape of the city while sipping a hot cup of tea.

Peak Season and Low Season Tours in Turkey

• Turkey in April
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• Turkey in September
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• Turkey in November
• Turkey in December
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Popular Turkey Trip Travel Guides

If you are planning a trip to Turkey , you will want to know about the best time to visit Turkey as well as checking out all the available Turkey tours. You may also wish to learn more about the top things to do in Turkey . Once you are sure about some of the activities you wish to experience in Turkey, along with the destinations you want to visit, you may want to consider how many days to stay in Turkey . We generally recommend to stay at least 7 days in Turkey , but to get the most out of your trip to Turkey you can stay 14 days in Turkey or more.

Next, we recommend you start thinking about the money you can allocate to the trip to know whether you should be looking for a budget tour, a luxury tour, or perhaps a completely customized tour to Turkey . If you are in doubt, check all our Turkey tours at the top of this page.

Turkey is an amazing country to visit, and there may be other key factors that you wish to consider before traveling there. Please check our ‘' Turkey travel guide ” which will give you a lot of relevant information about traveling to Turkey.

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Popular Destinations

• Antalya Tours
• Cappadocia Tours
• Ephesus Tours
• Goreme Tours
• Istanbul Tours
• Izmir Tours
• Konya Tours
• Kusadasi Tours
• Pamukkale Tours

Popular Activities

• Adventure tours
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• Cruise tours
• Cultural, religious and historic sites tours
• Explorer tours
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Turkey Tours 2024/2025, Turkey Tours Packages

Let's customize your trip, 01 destinations, 02 your information, 04 number of travelers, turkey tour packages 2024 toursturkey.com has been the most preferred local tour in turkey since 1999 ✔ plan your perfect trip with over   1800 unbiased tripadvisor reviews   the following escorted turkey package tours have been in continuous operation with a great success for 25 years and enjoyed by thousands of guests each year. below are our recommended turkey itineraries from 2-3 days to 16 days to give you the best possible overview of turkey. if you travel more than 16 days in turkey please   contact us   so we can customize your trip according to your dates. we also organise   istanbul shore excursions   ephesus shore excursions   as well as   turkey tour packages, discover turkey with local tour operator.

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Best turkey tour packages.

4 Days Cappadocia and Ephesus Tour

• 4 Days 3 Nights
• From : USD 790

4 Days Cappadocia, Ephesus and Pamukkale Tour

5 Days Cappadocia Ephesus and Pamukkale Tour

• 5 Days 4 Nights
• From : USD 985

6 days Istanbul Cappadocia Pamukkale Ephesus Tour

• 6 Days 5 Nights
• From : USD 1190

7 Days Istanbul Cappadocia Ephesus and Pamukkale Tour

• 7 Days 6 Nights
• From : USD 1445

8 Days Istanbul Cappadocia Ephesus and Pamukkale Tour

• 8 Days 7 Nights

10 Days Istanbul, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Antalya, Konya and Cappadocia Tour

• 10 Days 9 Nights
• From : USD 2130

12 Days Ephesus, Pamukkale, Fethiye, Blue Cruise, Antalya, Konya and Cappadocia Tour

• 12 Days 11 Nights
• From : USD 2475

16 Days Istanbul Gallipoli Troy Pergamum Ephesus Pamukkale Fethiye Blue Cruise Antalya Konya and Cappadocia Tour

• 16 Days 15 Nights
• From : USD 3355

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• Getting around Turkey: Transportation Tips

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Virtually the whole of Turkey is well covered by public transport, including long-distance buses, domestic flights, minibuses and ferries. The aged train network is being overhauled, with new high-speed lines linking the capital Ankara with İstanbul, Konya and Sivas. Late booking is the norm for public transport users in Turkey, but reserve well in advance for major public holidays – especially for flights and trains. Car rental rates are reasonable if you look around, and low-season rentals usually considerably cheaper than in high season.

By long-distance bus

By city bus and taxi, by bicycle and motorcycle, seating plan tips, 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.

6 days  / from 1400 USD

Delightful Turkey

A fast-paced itinerary for those who want to discover as much as of Turkey as possible in under one week. Highlights include the Old Town of Istanbul, the valleys of Cappadocia, the birth of Sufism and the historical city of Ephesus.

22 days  / from 7879 USD

Cultural Turkish Odyssey

Embark on a 22-day journey through Turkey's rich tapestry of culture and history. From Istanbul's enchanting blend of Asia and Europe to ancient wonders, coastal gems, and the captivating landscapes of Cappadocia, this tour immerses you in the treasures of Turkey.

10 days  / from 3543 USD

Discovering Turkey

Discover Turkey's treasures in 10 unforgettable days. Explore Istanbul's heritage, walk the ancient streets of Ephesus, and soak in the natural wonders of Pamukkale and Cappadocia. An epic journey through history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes awaits.

7 days  / from 1850 USD

A week in Istanbul

Explore Istanbul's treasures in 6 captivating days. From historic landmarks to culinary delights and cultural experiences, immerse yourself in this enchanting city.

8 days  / from 1965 USD

Hiking in the valleys of Cappadocia

Embark on a 7-day Turkish odyssey filled with breathtaking hikes, cultural immersion, ancient marvels, and blissful relaxation. Your unforgettable adventure begins here!

9 days  / from 3630 USD

Turkish Treasures: A Journey through History, Culture, and Natural Wonders

Embark on a captivating journey through Turkey's treasures. Explore Istanbul, and ancient Ephesus, marvel at Pamukkale's surreal terraces, savor local delights, and unwind in Bodrum's vibrant nightlife. An unforgettable adventure awaits.

For more (non-transport) information, read our round-up of fascinating facts about Turkey .

Turkey’s train network is run by Turkish State Railways (TCDD; w tcdd.gov.tr). Unfortunately, a major overhaul of the network means there is much current uncertainty as to which trains are operational. As an example, until work is completed on the new high-speed line between İstanbul and Ankara, scheduled for 2015, the only option for rail travellers is to take the bus to Eskişehir and then the high-speed train onto Ankara (and vice versa). The service between İstanbul and Konya has been cancelled, though it is still possible to reach İzmir by rail by taking the high-speed ferry from Yenikapı and the 6 Eylül Ekspres onto İzmir from Bandirma. A useful new high-speed service also links Ankara with Konya.

Until the situation becomes clearer, in general trains are probably best used to reach provincial centres such as Adana, Kayseri, Erzerum, Kars and Diyarbakır from Ankara. These trains are slow because the mountainous terrain has resulted in circuitous routes. As a result, journeys can sometimes take double the time by road. The advantages are the chance to stretch your legs, unwind and watch the scenery unfold at leisure. To get accurate schedule information , especially with the plethora of delays and re-schedulings caused by the network overhaul, go to the station in person, scan the placards and then confirm departures with staff. Several choices of seats are available on most routes, including first-class, reclining Pullman seats; first-class standard seats (usually in a six-seater compartment) and second-class seats (generally in an eight-seater compartment). For long distances, though, it’s advisable to get a sleeper . Cheapest are küşetli (couchettes), with either four or six bunks in a compartment depending on the route, and two-bedded yataklı (sleeping-cars) with a basin, soap, towel and air conditioning. All yataklı beds come with sheets, pillows and blankets provided, as do örtülü küşetli beds; for standard küşetli beds you’ll need to bring your own bedding. For maximum privacy, and for women travelling without male companions, it’s probably best to book a yataklı berth to avoid having to share. There are always (usually helpful but tip expected) porters on hand to make up beds. Note that all beds fold away in the day to convert the compartment into a seating area.

All long-distance services should have a licensed büfe wagon, offering simple meals at surprisingly reasonable prices, but it’s as well to check in advance (note that most wayside stations offer some sort of snacks). On major train routes it’s essential to reserve ahead , but unfortunately this cannot be done earlier than two weeks in advance – and it’s almost impossible to arrange sleeper facilities from a station that’s not your start point. It’s theoretically possible to book online, but the English version of TCDD’s website is so hard to use that you’d be brave to risk it (rail site w seat61.com has a step-by-step guide on this). Probably the best option for most travellers, especially for long-distance train travel, is to buy tickets from a reputable travel agency, though that incurs a small supplement.

Fares and passes

To give some idea of prices , a pullman seat for the lengthy 28hr, 1076km journey from Ankara to Kars (close to the Armenian border) costs TL35.5, while a bed in a two-berth yataklı compartment costs TL82.5. An economy seat on the Yüksek Hızlı Tren (High-Speed Train) for the 233km journey between İstanbul and Eskişehir costs TL25, and a pullman seat on the Bandirma to İzmir (334km) train is TL20. Buying a return ticket brings the fare down by twenty percent, while foreign students (with appropriate ID) and children also get twenty percent off. InterRail passes are valid, though a better bet for Turkey-only travel is the one-month TrenTur card (available at major stations) which costs TL175 a month for unlimited second-class travel, or TL550 for any class of sleeping car.

Long-distance buses are a key part of the Turkish travel experience and, despite keen competition from domestic flights and relatively high road accident rates, look set to remain so. Major otogars (bus stations) are veritable hives of activity, with dozens of separate companies vying for business and a plethora of places to eat, drink, souvenir shop or have your shoes shined.

The vehicles used by many companies are luxurious coaches, complete with air conditioning, though without on-board toilets. Journeys are sometimes accompanied by loud Turkish music or film soundtracks, though increasingly the better (and more expensive) companies use coaches with aeroplane-style screens set in the back of the seat in front, along with headsets. There’s a choice of TV channels and films, though very seldom in English. Several companies also have free wi-fi aboard, which is of far more use to the non-Turkish-speaking traveller. Traditional services remain, however, with attendants dishing out free drinking water and cologne for freshening up. In addition, most companies serve free coffee/tea/soft drinks and cakes on board. Every couple of hours or so there will be a fifteen-minute rest stop ( mola ) for tea, as well as less frequent half-hour pauses for meals at purpose-built roadside cafeterias.

Bus companies are private concerns and there’s no comprehensive national bus timetable , although individual companies often provide their own. Prices vary considerably between top- and bottom-drawer companies, though convenience of departure and on-board service are equally important criteria. If in doubt, inspect the vehicle out in the loading bay ( peron in Turkish) and ask at the ticket office how long the trip will take.

Bear in mind that long-haul journeys (over 10hr) generally take place at night, and that because of rest stops buses never cover more than 60km per hour on average. As a broad example of fares, İstanbul–Antalya (a 450km trip) costs around TL45 with a standard bus company, TL60 with a premium company. The 1240km journey from İstanbul to Hopa, on the Black Sea near the Georgia border, costs TL85 with a premium company.

Buying tickets

Most bus companies have ticket booths both at the otogars (bus terminals) and in the city centre. One of the big advantages of coach over plane travel is that, national holidays apart, you can usually just turn up at the bus station and find a seat. If you do this it’s worth checking out various companies to see which offers the best price and most convenient departure – touts that work for particular companies will not necessarily take you to the office of the company that has the cheapest or soonest departure.

Unacquainted women and men are not usually allowed to sit next to each other, and you may be asked to switch your assigned seat to accommodate this convention. If you buy your ticket at a sales office in the centre of town, ask about free servis (service) transfer buses to the otogar , especially if (as most now are) it’s located a few kilometres out. These buses will often also take passengers from otogars into town centres, but that system is more erratic. Of the country’s two premium coach companies , Ulusoy ( w ulusoy.com.tr ) and Varan ( w www.ulusoy.com.tr ), Ulusoy offer by far the most comprehensive network. Their seats are more comfortable than most and they don’t segregate single passengers by sex. Both have online booking systems in English. Kamil Koç ( w kamilkoc.com.tr ) and Pamukkale ( w pamukkaleturizm.com.tr ) are two of the best standard outfits, though neither has online systems in English.

A dolmuş (literally “stuffed”) refers to a car or small van ( minibüs in Turkish) that runs along set routes, picking passengers up (give a normal taxi hand signal) and dropping them off along the way (just say inecek var or müsait bir yerde to be set down). Few cities have car-type dolmuşes left – these include Bursa and Trabzon. On busy urban routes it’s better to take the dolmuş from the start of its run, at a stand marked by a blue sign with a black-on-white-field “D”, sometimes with the destination indicated – though usually you’ll have to ask to learn the eventual destination, or look at the dolmuş’ windscreen placard. The fare is invariably a flat rate (usually TL2), making it very good value for cross-city journeys, not so great for a one-stop hop. In some cities (eg Antalya) dolmuşes have been banned because pulling in at random is both dangerous and slows traffic. Locals, confusingly, still refer to the midibuses that replaced them, and stop only at fixed points, as dolmuşes.

Inter-town and village services are always provided by twelve- or fifteen-seater minibuses, and in these instances the term “ dolmuş ” is seldom used. For the remotest villages there will only be two services a day: to the nearest large town in the morning and back to the village in mid-afternoon. Generally, though, minibuses run constantly between 7am or 8am and 7pm in summer, stopping at sunset in winter or extending until 10pm or 11pm (or even later) near popular resorts.

In larger towns, the main means of transport are city buses , which usually accept only pre-purchased tickets available from kiosks near the main terminals, newsagents, or from kerbside touts (at slightly inflated prices). This is certainly the case in İstanbul, where you have to use a pre-purchased token ( jeton ) or a smart travel card (İstanbul Kart). In some cities, such as Antalya, it’s still possible to pay on the bus.

Yellow city taxis are everywhere, with ranks at appropriate places. Hailing one in the street is the best way to get a cab, but in suburban areas you can call them from useful street-corner telephones; sometimes you just press a buzzer and wait for a cab to turn up. City cabs all have working, digital-display meters and fares are reasonable. Each town sets its own rates, which includes the minimum charge and a unit charge for the distance covered. The main problem with using a cab is that few drivers – even in tourist areas – speak much English, so you may have to write down your destination on a piece of paper. Overcharging of foreigners in İstanbul and major resorts is, unfortunately, not uncommon – make sure that the driver turns his meter on and (trickier) that he doesn’t take you all around the houses to reach your destination.

While the excellent intercity bus network makes travel between major centres easy, having a car allows you to visit off-the-beaten-track sites. But be warned – the standard of driving in Turkey is often both poor and aggressive and the enforcement of traffic rules arbitrary, all factors that have led to the high road accident rate with over four thousand fatalities per year. Driving during public holidays, especially the religious Şeker and Kurban bayram s, and an hour or so prior to the iftar (fast-breaking meal) during Ramadan, is especially dangerous.

Rules of the road

You drive on the right , and yield to those approaching from the right. Speed limits are 50km/h within towns (40km/h if towing a trailer or caravan); open road limits are 90km/h for cars, 80km/h for vans (70km/h if towing something); motorways ( otoyol in Turkish), 120km/h for cars, 100km/h for vans and small trucks. Drink-driving laws are in line with those of the European Union – 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood – and drink-driving carries a fine of TL590. Even so, drink-driving is a major problem; in 2010, almost 140,000 Turkish drivers had their licences seized for the offence. Front seat belts are mandatory and it’s a fineable (TL66) offence not to buckle up – though few drivers do.

Traffic control points at the approaches to major cities are common. You’ll probably be waved through simply upon showing your foreign ID, especially if it’s a rental car. Make sure the rental company provides the insurance certificate, the pollution compliance certificate ( eksoz muayene tasdiknamesi ), and the vehicle registration, or certified copies thereof.

Speeding fines , levied on a sliding scale according to how far above the limit you were, are heavy, with penalties of up to TL300 (though there’s a considerable “discount” if the fine is paid within ten days). Usually you’ll be given a ticket, which you take to a designated bank to pay. Jumping a red light carries a fine of TL140.

If you have an accident serious enough to immobilize you and/or cause major damage to other people’s property, the traffic police will appear and administer alcohol tests to all drivers, results of which must also be submitted along with an official accident report ( kaza raporu ) in order to claim insurance cover. It used to be an offence to move a vehicle involved in a car crash before the police showed up, but if there is only minor damage it is now OK to do so providing you have exchanged details with the other driver.

Heed the signposted no-parking zones , especially in resorts, as towing is common and although the fines are not too heavy the hassle of finding the pound and negotiating language barriers is considerable. Generally, it’s wisest to patronize the covered ( katlı ) or open otoparks . In open car parks you may well be required to leave your keys so the attendant can move your car. If you leave your car in the street in some towns and cities, you may return to find a chit on your windscreen (typically TL5), to be paid to the roving attendant.

Road conditions

Road conditions have improved enormously over the last few years, with better surfaces and more and more dual carriageways. On both single and dual carriageways there’s usually a hard-shoulder area to the right of the driving lane, and often slower-moving vehicles pull into this to allow impatient drivers to overtake. Be very wary of doing this, especially at night, as you might find yourself ploughing into pedestrians or parked/broken-down vehicles. With continual road improvements being made countrywide, roadworks are often a (sometimes dangerous) nuisance – especially in the southeast. Sizeable archeological sites are usually marked by large white-on-brown-field signs, but side roads to minor sites or villages are often poorly signposted.

Typical hazards include drivers overtaking right, left and centre, failure to signal and huge trucks. Small-town driving hazards include suicidal pedestrians, horse-carts, speeding scooters and motorcycles (often with the entire family astride one vehicle) and tractors.

Toll highways , marked with white-on-green signs, are well worth the modest fees but to use them you’ll need to buy a KGS ( Kartlı Geçis Systemi ) smart card, as many toll booths will not accept cash. They are available from some rental outlets, several banks including Halkbank, İşbankası, Garanti Bankası and Ziraat Bankası, and some toll booths, and can be topped up at “ KGS dolum noktası ” machines at many motorway service stations.

Main toll roads include İstanbul–Ankara, İstanbul–Edirne; Adana–Gaziantep; Adana–Pozanti through the Cilician Gates; İzmir–Çeşme; and İzmir–Denizli.

Night driving is best not attempted by beginners – be prepared for unlit vehicles, glare from undipped lights, speeding intercity coaches and trucks and, in rural areas, flocks of sheep and goats and unlit tractors. Warning triangles are obligatory; make sure you put it on the road behind your vehicle following a flat, breakdown or accident, and ensure your rental car has one.

Fuel and repairs

Filling stations are commonplace and open long hours, so it’s difficult to run out of fuel. Fuel costs are very high owing to high taxes, and even diesel ( mazot or dizel ) is TL4.1 per litre. Petrol ( benzin ), available in four-star ( süper ) and lead-free ( kurşunsuz ) grades, goes for around TL4.6 per litre. Rental cars generally use unleaded, but in some remote eastern areas it may be difficult to find.

In western Turkey, roadside rest-stop culture conforming to Italian or French notions is the norm. You can eat, pray, patch a tyre, phone home, shop at mini-marts and, sometimes, even sleep at what amount to small hamlets (essentially the descendants of the medieval kervansaray s) in the middle of nowhere. In the east you’ll find more basic amenities.

Credit and debit cards (Visa Electron, Visa and MasterCard but also American Express) are widely honoured for fuel purchases in much of Turkey (chip-and-PIN protocol is the norm), but carry cash in more remote rural areas and the east.

Car repair workshops are located in industrial zones called sanayis at town outskirts. To repair a punctured tyre (a common event in Turkey) head to a lastıkçı (tyre workshop); new tyres for small cars start from TL95. Always check that the spare and toolkit are sound and complete before leaving the rental agency.

To rent a car you need to be at least 21 with a driving licence held for at least one year. Your home country licence should be enough, but it is very helpful, especially at traffic-control points, to be able to show an international driver’s permit (IDP). A compact car rented from a major chain on the Aegean and Mediterranean coast will cost around €75 per day or €395 per week in high season (April–Oct), less in low season. Rent a car from a local firm in low season and you may be able to find something for around €30 a day, €40 in high season. Diesel-fuelled rental cars are becoming more widely available at a premium but are well worth considering if you intend doing a lot of kilometres. If you pick up a car at one of İstanbul’s two airports (and think carefully before you do so, the city traffic is horrendous, parking and route-finding difficult and accidents commonplace), you will be required to buy a KGS card for TL35, otherwise you won’t be able to leave the motorway at the exit booth – most do not accept cash!

Some rental companies allow rental in one town and drop-off in another – at a premium. The international players like Hertz have outlets at many of Turkey’s airports as well as downtown/resort offices; local outfits (some of which also offer advance, online booking services) may not have an office in the airport but with advance booking will bring the car to the airport and have someone meet you outside arrivals. Be warned: tanks are sometimes near empty so you need to fill up right away.

When checking any car out, agency staff should make a thorough note of any blemishes on the vehicle – go around the vehicle with them when they do this as you may be liable for scratches and dents not noted at the time of rental. Basic insurance is usually included, but CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) is not, and given typical driving conditions taking this out is virtually mandatory. Along with KDV (Value Added Tax), all these extras can push up the final total considerably. Rental insurance never covers smashed windscreens or ripped tyres.

Touring Turkey by bicycle is perfectly possible for experienced cyclists, so long as you avoid the hottest months, the busiest roads and don’t expect any kind of deference from motorists. Be prepared to do your own repairs as local mechanics experienced in working on state-of-the-art bikes are thin on the ground and confined to big cities such as Ankara, Antalya, İstanbul and İzmir. There is a well-developed home-grown mountain bike industry, and spares by such as Shimano are readily found in the big cities. Indeed, unless you’re passing through Turkey or are a real bicycle freak, it’s worth considering buying a home-grown model here, as that way the spares and repairs will be less problematic. Reasonable bikes start from TL350, though imported models are likely to be far more expensive than you could buy at home. In cities, lock your bike; in rural areas theft is not likely to be a problem, even if the curious stares of incredulous locals could be. Bikes-rental facilities are few and far between in Turkey; a notable exception is Cappadocia, particularly Göreme, and there are outlets in bigger resorts such as Antalya.

Given Turkey’s road conditions, only confident, experienced motorcyclists should consider driving here. Plenty of visitors risk a day or two on a scooter in resort areas. In larger resorts and big cities there will be at least one motorbike rental agency , or a car-rental company that also rents out motor-scooters and mopeds ( mobilet ). You’ll need an appropriate driving licence, and most companies insist that it has been held for at least a year. As with cars, always check the bike for scratches and dents before renting it. Helmets are mandatory, despite the endless numbers of helmet-less riders you’ll see.

Turkey’s domestic ferry network is confined to İstanbul and the Sea of Marmara. Şehir Hatları ( w sehirhatlari.com ) operates ferries along the Bosphorus, between the European and Asian sides of the same strait, and to the Princess Islands. Longer runs across the Sea of Marmara to Yalova (for Termal & İznik), Mudanya (for Bursa) and Bandırma (for the Aegean coast) are the preserve of İstanbul Deniz Ötobüsleri ( w ido.com.tr ) sea-buses. Any of the trans-Marmara car-ferry links save time compared to the dreary, circuitous road journey, but are relatively expensive with a vehicle.

Private companies offer services from the Mediterranean town of Taşucu to Girne in Northern Cyprus year-round, and catamarans run from the resort of Alanya in the summer months.

Travel by air is becoming the norm in what is a very big country, and makes sense for those on a tight schedule or who wish to visit far-flung places like Van or Erzurum. Turkish Airways (Türk Hava Yolları or THY; t 0212 225 0566, w thy.com) offers the most comprehensive domestic flight network, though most flights from the west of the country are routed through either İstanbul or Ankara. THY faces stiff competition from private airlines, and has set up its own budget wing, Anadolujet ( t 444 2538, w anadolujet.com.tr ), which covers many of the same domestic routes as its parent, with Ankara as the hub.

Sunexpress ( t 444 0797, w www.sunexpress.com ), which has direct flights from the Mediterranean gateway resort of Antalya to Adana, Ankara, Bodrum, Dalaman, Diyarbakir, Erzerum, Gaziantep, Hatay (Antakya), İstanbul, İzmir, Kars, Kayseri, Malatya, Mardin, Samsun, Trabzon and Van, was set up jointly by THY and Lufthansa.

Of the private airlines, Onur Air ( t 0212 663 2300, w onurair.com.tr ) offers direct flights from İstanbul to the following destinations: Adana, Antalya, Diyarbakır, Erzerum, Gaziantep, İzmir, Kayseri, Kars, Malatya, Samsun and Trabzon.

Atlasjet ( t 444 0387, w atlasjet.com ) covers the same destinations plus Nevşehir, Sivas and Van, while Pegasus ( t 444 0737, w flypgs.com ) covers Adana, Ankara, Antalya, Bodrum, Gaziantep, İzmir, Kayseri, Trabzon and Van.

Fares with THY are reasonable – for example, promotional one-way fares from İstanbul to Antalya (tax inclusive) are TL94, though more usual prices are from TL124. THY also offers variable student, youth and family discounts. Fares with Atlas, Onur, Pegasus and Sunexpress also start from as low as TL59 one way (occasionally less if there’s a special offer), and are very good value.

The key to finding cheap economy fares is early booking – generally six weeks to a month prior to departure, except at peak holiday periods when earlier booking is advised. These fares are often comparable to, if not cheaper than, inter-city bus fares, though getting to and from some airports by cab adds to the cost considerably.

Beware, last-minute cancellations (by text message in Turkish) are not unknown, particularly with Sunexpress. You’re told to appear at the airport 1hr 30min before your departure, but an hour is usually adequate leeway for completing security procedures. Baggage allowances vary between companies – usually it’s either 15 or 20kg, but make sure you check to avoid unwanted extra baggage charges.

Be sure to remember that İstanbul has two airports, one on the Asian and one on the European side. Some carriers use both airports, Sunexpress only Sabiha Gökçen on the Asian side of the city.

When buying tickets, ask to see the seating plan so that you can choose window or aisle, a front seat (better views) or avoid certain less comfortable seats, such as those above the wheels and immediately behind the central door, which have less legroom. Even more important, if you’re making a daytime trip in the heat of summer, work out the general direction of travel and try to get a seat on the shady side of the bus – a powerful sun beating down on the windows of even an air-conditioned bus makes quite a difference.

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10 Day Turkey Tour of Istanbul, Pamukkale and Cappadocia

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Travel along the age-old trading routes that linked East and West, where the Highlights of Turkey are revealed. Haggle in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, daydream through the fairy-tale landscapes of Cappadocia and walk in the footsteps of the ancient Greeks in Ephesus.

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Visit the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Byzantine Hippodrome and Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, Anzac Cove and the poignant War Cemeteries at Gallipoli, the Asclepion Medical Center at Pergamon, the ancient city of Ephesus, the Virgin Mary's House at Ephesus, the ruins of the Roman health spa at Hierapolis and the Göreme Open-Air Museum. 

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The Ultimate Turkey Itinerary (2024)

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A fascinating mix of modern and ancient, where East meets West, Turkey is one of the most incredible countries in the world. After many visits and months of planning our Turkey itinerary, we settled on a route that led us through some of the country’s highlights: from the capital Istanbul to the otherworldly Cappadocia, to the ancient ruins of Ephesus and Troy to the beautiful turquoise coastline and beaches. We were blown away by the variety of sights and scenery on our journey. We’ve put together the ultimate Turkey Itinerary below, including our suggested route, where to stay and the best things to do in each place.

Table of Contents

Turkey Itinerary Route

Our Turkey itinerary took us on a loop of all the popular locations throughout western Turkey, starting and ending in Istanbul. The entire route can be completed in two weeks at a rush or three to four weeks to explore at a more relaxed pace. This Turkey itinerary can be extended or reduced depending on what sights you want to see and the time you have available. We did this route in 3 weeks which was around the right amount of time, however we had been to Istanbul previously so only spent 3 days there on this trip.

You can reduce the time by flying to Cappadocia or simple flying to Antalya and driving back to Istanbul via the coast road.

Route Summary:  arrive by air to Istanbul (1) – Safranbolu (2) – Cappadocia/Goreme (3) – Konya (4) – Antalya (5) – Kas (6) – Feithye (7) –Pamukalle (8) – Ephesus/Selcuk (9) – Izmir (10) – Troy  (11) – Istanbul (1)

Map of our Turkey Itinerary Route

How to Use This Google Map:  Click on the grey star at the top of the map and this map will be added to your Google Maps account. You can then view it on your phone or computer in Google Maps by clicking on the menu button, going to “Your Places” and selecting this map. We use these maps all the time as you can set out your itinerary ahead of time and quickly reference the saved maps.

How to get around Turkey

Renting a car.

Renting a car in Turkey is very safe and it’s the best way to explore the country. We rented a car to explore Turkey and it was a great way to see the country. Driving is relatively easy and having your own car gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and see places that are simply not possible on group tours or public transport. Check out our tips for renting a car in Turkey

We’re huge fans of road trips and have driven rental cars in almost 50 countries so we have a lot of experience renting cars in foreign countries. Book your car now with RentalCars.com , where you will find the best rental car prices

Book your rental car now

Public Transport

Much of this route is also possible by bus although it will likely take a little longer to allow for public transport schedules.

Turkey Itinerary: The Daily Itinerary

We’ve listed our itinerary in a loop coming from and returning to Istanbul. Feel free to reverse the order as it works just as well backward

Turkey itinerary tip:  if you are planning on visiting a lot of the sights listed in our itinerary make sure to pick up a  Turkey Museum Pass  which provides one time access to over 300 museums and sites affiliated to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey. It costs around US $35 and covers most of the ancient sites and museums and also avoids queuing for tickets. We used ours everywhere from Ephesus to Aphrodisas to Hagia Sofia and the open air museums in Cappadocia.

Day 1: Arrive in Istanbul

Most visitors to Turkey arrive and depart via the new Istanbul International Airport. After a late flight, we picked up our rental car and opted to spend a night at an airport hotel before we started our Turkey road trip. We’ll return at the end of the trip for a few relaxing days in Istanbul.

Turkey itinerary tip: Istanbul can be explored at either end of this itinerary: we preferred to save it to the end of our trip and spend a few days in the city before we left Turkey.

Where to stay at Istanbul International Airport

• Bricks Airport Hotel Istanbul – excellent reasonably priced option a short taxi ride from the airport –  check prices now!
• Rox Hotel Airport – well-appointed hotel a short taxi ride from the airport  –  check prices now!
• WOW Airport Hotel: –  spacious and comfortable rooms, free airport shuttle –  check prices now!

Click here for Istanbul airport hotel prices!

Days 2 & 3: Safranbolu

The Ottoman City of Safranbolu is perfect for a one or two-night stop. We opted for two nights as the drive to Cappadocia requires an early start and we wanted to have a day to explore Safranbolu. If you prefer, you can go straight from Istanbul to Cappadocia using our guide on how to travel between them.

Drive time: 5 hours from Istanbul Ataturk Airport to Safranbolu

Safranbolu is almost frozen in time. It is a typical Ottoman city with well-preserved architecture: there are 2,000 traditional Safranbolu houses which are incredible examples of traditional Turkish housing. Safranbolu played a key part in the caravan trade as the main commercial link between the Orient and Europe.

Where to Stay in Safranbolu

• Hilton Garden Inn Safronbolu –  great modern option in Safranbolu. Rooms are clean and spacious –  check prices now!
• Gulevi Safranbolu Hotel – lovely hotel set in restored 220-year-old Ottoman mansions in the historic centre –  check prices now!
• Safranbolu Seyir Konak Otel – traditional hotel with great breakfast and wonderful views overlooking the historic centre of Safranbolu –   check prices now!

Click here for hotel prices in Safranbolu

Things to do in Safranbolu

• Explore Çarşı, the Old Town district, a maze of cobblestone alleyways winding up the hillside
• Shop for local crafts and delicacies
• Visit Cinci Hamam, a beautifully restored bathhouse

Turkey itinerary tip: we decided to drive from Istanbul to Cappadocia via Safranbolu and the archaeological site of Hattusha, both awesome historical sites. If you prefer to start your trip in Cappadocia it’s worth checking out connecting flight options to Cappadocia as it’s an 8 hour direct drive from Istanbul.

Day 4: Safranbolu to Cappadocia via Hattusha

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hattusha is an interesting stop between Safranbolu and Cappadocia and, after spending the afternoon exploring the ancient site, we arrived in Cappadocia just in time for sunset.

Drive time:  the total drive is 500km and takes around 7hours: 4hours from Safranbolu to Hattusha and 3hours from Hattusha to Cappadocia

Hattusa was the capital of the Hittite Empire, an ancient Anatolian people, in the late Bronze Age and the archaeological site consists of ruins of temples, a royal residence and fortifications. A second site close to Hattusha, Yazilikaya, contains a fascinating ensemble of rock art. The highlights are the Lions’ Gate and the Royal Gate, the rock art and the Great Temple, the best-preserved ruin of a Hittite Temple from the 13th century BC.

Things to do

• Drive around the ancient site of Hattusha
• Stop by Yazlilkaya for ancient rock art
• Watch the sunset in Cappadocia

Days 5 to 8: Cappadocia

With its whimsical landscape, ethereal beauty and balloon-filled sky Cappadocia is otherworldly. Magical valleys stretch as far as the eye can see and the sunrise hot air balloons are a once in a lifetime experience. Check out our guide to choosing where to stay in Cappadocia here.

Turkey itinerary tip: We recommend spending at least 3 nights as there are lots of things to do in Cappadocia. If a hot air balloon ride is on your must do list then make sure to leave a few extra days in case the balloon ride is cancelled due to weather. We visited in March and the balloons only flew on one of our three mornings in Cappadocia.

Where to stay in Cappadocia

We stayed in three different hotels during our time in Cappadocia and recommend each of them!

• Sultan Cave Suites – the ultimate spot to watch the balloons rise over the Cappadocia sky at sunrise, we loved waking up to a balloon filled sky. Guests have exclusive sunrise access to the rooftop terraces which over the best views –  check prices here !

Click here for Goreme Hotel prices!

• Rox Cappadocia – located right next to the highest point in Cappadocia at Uchisar Castle, the hotel has incredible views of Goreme and Guvercinlik Valley from its rooftop. We stayed in a beautiful cave room and breakfast was a real treat –  check prices here !
• Taskonaklar Hotel – we spent a few nights in a cave room at the luxury Taskonaklar Hotel. Awesome rooms, great food and fantastic views over the valley –  check prices here
• Museum Hotel – one for the bucket list, the Museum Hotel is based on the concept of a living museum. The view of the hot air balloons from the hotel’s Roman Pool is breathtaking –  check prices here !

Click here for Uchisar hotel prices!

You can read more about our stay at the Sultan Cave Suites and our guide to the Cappadocia hotels with the best view of the balloons .

Things to do in Cappadocia

There are so many awesome things to see and do in Cappadocia that your three days will be packed! Our favourite things to do were:

• Take a sunrise hot air balloon ride – this is a bucket list Cappadocia item and a must for anyone visiting. This is one of the best yours and includes hotel pickup – click here to book a hot air balloon flight

Book your Hot Air balloon ride now

• Hunt for the best Instagram photo spots in Cappadocia
• Watch the sunset over the red valley
• Explore Imagination Valley
• Stock up on rugs at a Turkish carpet shop
• See the iconic Cappadocia fairy chimneys
• Explore the underground city’s
• Visit the open-air museums
• Hang an evil eye charm on the evil eye trees

For all the photographers reading we’ve put together a list of our favourite photo locations in Cappadocia (hint: there are lots!)

Day 9: Konya

After an incredible few days in Cappadocia, it’s time to head towards the stunning Turkish coast. Konya, a compelling mix of ancient and modern and the home of the whirling dervish orders, is the perfect overnight stop before Antalya. On the way check out the Sultanhanı Caravanserai, an ancient trading outpost with an incredible entrance gate.

Drive time : 3 hours (235km)

Where to stay in Konya

Hotels in Konya were extremely affordable and you can stay in some very nice modern hotels for a reasonable rate.

• Hilton Garden Inn Konya  – clean, spacious and modern in an excellent location close to all the major Konya sights –   check prices here!
• Novotel Konya – great facilities and clean, modern rooms with minibus access to sights –  check prices here!
• Ramada Plaza Konya – modern hotel with hammam and pool, located close to the tram stop –   check prices here!

Click here for Konya Hotel Prices

Things to Do in Konya

• Çatalhöyük – located just outside Konya, this stunning UNESCO World Heritage site is an ancient city over 9,000 years old and one of the oldest Neolithic settlements in the world.

• Mevlana Museum – home to the tomb of Rumi, a philosopher, poet and Islamic scholar who founded the whirling dervish sect of Sufism.
• Kyoto Park – a slice of Japan in the middle of Turkey!
• Mevlana Whirling Dervishes:  synonymous with Konya, the Turkish Dervishes perform a ceremony of worship, spinning in deep prayer.

Days 10 and 11: Antalya

Antalya is known as Turkey’s Turquoise Coast and offers a change of pace and scenery in addition to some of the best sunsets we’ve ever experienced. Antalya is packed with very affordable luxury beach resorts and has a stunning coastline, so we recommend spending a few days relaxing and recovering from the so far packed itinerary and long drives.

Drive time: 4 hours (300km)

Where to Stay in Antalya

Hotels in Antalya are very reasonably priced so we opted for some luxury during our stay!

• Akra Hotel – a five-star hotel on the sea, we loved our ocean view room and the amazing facilities. One of our favourite hotels in Turkey! –  check prices now!
• Crown Plaza Antalya – set along the beautiful  Konyaalti Beach, another great five-star option with great facilities –  check prices now!
• Rixos Downtown Antalya – overlooking the  sea  and the Taurus Mountains, Rixos Downtown is located close to Konyaalti Beach and has a host of dining options and great pools. –  check prices now!

Click here for Antalya hotel prices!

Things to do in Antalya

• Aspendos Theater:  the theatre at Aspendos is one of the best preserved in Turkey and is still used for performances to this day

• Termessos – located in the mountains just north of Antalya, Termessos is one of the best ancient sites we visited in Turkey. This mountaintop city is a must for anyone visiting Antalya and the views from the theatre are incredible.

• Perge – the UNESCO site of Perge is another must see in Antalya. This ancient city prospered during the bronze age.

• Hadrians Gate:  iconic entrance gate to the Old Town Kaleiçi district which was erected in honour of a visit by Emperor Hadrian in AD 130.
• Manavgat waterfall:  beautiful waterfalls located just east of Antalya, these are very popular and busy.
• Düden Waterfalls:  a beautiful group of waterfalls in Antalya, be sure to stop at the source and by the sea.

Day 12 –  Coast Drive between Antalya and Kas

After a few relaxing days in Antalya, it’s time to move west along the stunning Turkish coastline. There are so many stops along the coast that it’s worth making an overnight stay half-way in the seaside town of Kas.

Drive time: 3 hours (190 km)

 Where To Stay in Kas

• Hotel Cachet – located on the peninsula outside Kas, Hotel Cachet is one of the best in the area. The hotel is secluded and quiet with stunning views of the ocean – check prices now!
• Olea Nova Hotel – this beautiful hotel is located just outside Kas and has amazing ocean views and a beautiful outdoor pool . The local bus stops just outside the hotel every 30 minutes for a short trip into the town of Kas – check prices now!
• Nur Hotel – one of the best hotel options in Kas town is the Nur Hotel.  With beautiful sea views and a 5 minute walk to the town centre, the location is perfect for relaxing and enjoying all Kas has to offer – check prices now!

Click here for hotel prices in Kas

Things to do on the Coast Drive between Antalya and Kas

• Butterfly Valley:  only accessible by boat, Butterfly Valley is a large and picturesque canyon   that is home to a diverse population of butterflies, beautiful scenery and a beautiful beach
• Phaselis: take a step back in time at the ancient Lycian port of Phaselis where the contrast of ruins and turquoise water is mesmerising
• Kaputas Beach:  sheltered beach with huge waves and amazing viewpoints above
• Theimussa ancient place:  sunken ruins from 4BC of the ancient city of Theimussa
• Ancient Myra ruins:  incredible ruins with an amphitheater and Lycian rock tombs

Day 13: Fethiye

The bustling marina town of Fethiye is another excellent base along the coast and we recommend a one-night stopover en route to Pamukkale.

Drive time:  90 minutes from Kas to Fethiye (100km)

Things to do in Fethiye

• Xanthos and Letoon:  a joint UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ancient city of Xanthos was the capital of Lycia and Letoon, a cult sanctuary of Leto and one of the most important religious centres in the region, is located nearby.
• Fethiye waterfront and Old Town: from the bustling waterfront, a hub of restaurants, bars and yachts to the character filled Old Town, it’s lovely to wander through Fethiye
• Lycian Rock Tombs: incredible Lycian tombs carved into the cliffside above Fethiye 
• Kayakoy Ghost Town:  a ghost town now preserved as a museum village. Kayakoy was a thriving town of 10,000 until the early 1920s when, at the conclusion of the Greco-Turkish War, it was emptied of its Christian inhabitants.

Where to Stay in Fethiye

• Yacht Classic Hotel – seafront hotel with beautiful decor, spacious rooms and excellent food. The Yacht Classic is another of our Turkey favourites –  check prices now!
• Ece Boutique Hotel – located on the Island of Sovalye, a 10-minute boat ride from Fethiye –  check prices now!
• Letoonia Club & Hotel – excellent resort style option with a huge range of restaurants and facilities –  check prices now!

Click here for Fethiye hotel prices

Day 14: Aphrodisias, Pamukkale and Hierapolis

The brilliant white travertine of Pammukale is on the cover of nearly every Turkey guidebook and, with over two million visitors annually, Pamukkale is Turkey’s single most visited attraction. The ancient Greco-Roman city of Hierapolis, a thermal spa city, is located on the hot springs of Pamukkale. We spent a night in a hotel in Pamukkale to give us the chance to explore at less crowded times.

Drive: 3 hours (230km)

The brilliant white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, meaning cotton castle, are topped with turquoise hot pools cascading down the mountainside above the town of Pamukkale. Pamukkale, while still beautiful, doesn’t quite look like the iconic images that you might be familiar with – some of the travertines have suffered from the effects of mass tourism over the decades and are closed off to allow them to heal. Bring swimwear to bathe in Cleopatra’s Pool, an antique pool where Cleopatra the Queen of Egypt once swam.

Turkey itinerary tip: shoes and sandals are not permitted when visiting Pamukkale to prevent further erosion.

The ancient Greco-Roman city of Hierapolis was a thermal spa city located on the hot springs of Pamukkale in the classical kingdom of Phrygia. The ruins of Hierapolis ruins sit atop the natural site of Pamukkale and there are panoramic views for miles around. The ancient Theatre and the Museum are both unmissable. Together Pamukkale and Hierapolis are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the mix of natural and ancient is still breathtaking today.

Turkey itinerary tip: visiting Pamukkale and Hieropolis takes around half a day depending how much you wish to explore Hieropolis. Make sure to stop at the nearby site of Laodikeia where an active excavation is underway. Most of this site remains underground however it’s an incredible place.

Aphrodisias

Around an hours drive from Pamukkale is the UNESCO world heritage site of Aphrodisias. You can visit as an afternoon trip from Pamukkale or en route to Selçuk plan to spend a few hours exploring the most recent UNESCO site in Turkey, the ancient site of Aphrodisias. The small ancient Greek Hellenistic city was named after Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and the highlights include the monumental gateway leading into the site, the temple of Aphrodite which dates from the 3rd Century, the stadium which is one of the best preserved of its size and the museum which house the friezes from The Sebasteion building.

Where to stay in Pamukkale

• Hal Tur Hotel – family run hotel with the best view of Pamukkale, all rooms have a balcony/terrace overlooking the site. We stayed here and it was a minutes walk to the Pamukkale entrance. – check prices now!
• Hotel Sahin – another great family run hotel on the main street with excellent views and close to the entrance –   check prices now!

Click here for Pamukkale hotel prices!

Days 15 to 18: Selçuk & Ephesus

Our visit to Ephesus was one of the absolute highlights of our Turkey trip and it really is unmissable. Ephesus is located in the town of Selcuk and, together with ancient Ephesus, there are lots of  things to see and do in Selçuk:   the area deserves at least 2 to 3 full days to allow you to explore fully.

Ephesus is hands down the most spectacular archaeological site we visited in Turkey and it is worth committing an entire day to visit the site alone. The ancient Greek city of Ephesus was built in the 10th Century BC and contains successive settlements from the Neolithic, Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Selçuk and Ottoman periods. It’s impossible to describe the feeling of standing in front of the magnificent Celsus library in Ephesus as the morning light washed over the ruins.

Turkey Travel Tip: Aim to visit Ephesus first thing in the morning when it’s relatively quiet and after a few hours return to your hotel to relax during the hottest part of the day. This avoids the immense crowds that visit the site each day and the worst heat of the day. Although it cost us an extra ticket, we returned around 90 minutes before closing when the tour groups had left.

Things to do in Ephesus and Selcuk

The ancient city of Ephesus is located in Selcuk and there is much to explore in the town. For a more detailed guide, check out our article on things to do in Ephesus and Selcuk

• The ancient city of Ephesus:  the ancient Greek city of Ephesus was built in the 10th Century BC and was home to over 300,000 people at its peak.
• The terraced houses: an excavation site in Ephesus, the terraced houses were once luxurious residential villas and were known as the houses of the rich.
• Ephesus Archaeological Museum:  exhibits artifacts that were excavated from the nearby ancient city of Ephesus
• Basilica of St John: ruins of the 6th Century Basilica where the Apostle John, having travelled from Jerusalem to Ephesus, is said to have spent his remaining years
• House of Mary, Meryemana:  the house of the Virgin Mary is a pilgrimage site close to the ancient ruins of Ephesus and is considered to be the place where Mary, the Mother of Jesus, lived and died after being taken there by Saint John
• Ayasuluk Fortress: built to protect St John’s Basilica, the Ayasoluk Fortress dominates the skyline of Selcuk
• Isa Bey Mosque:  the Isa Bey Mosque was constructed in the late 1300s and is based on the Great Mosque of Damascus
• Sirince:  small village close to Ephesus is famous for its fruit wine and red-roofed houses
• Grotto of the Seven Sleepers: tombs of seven young Christians, who, having refused to renounce their Christian beliefs, were said to have hidden in a cave close to Ephesus to escape religious persecution by the Roman Emperor Decius.
• Temple of Artemis:  Dedicated to the goddess Artemis, it is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World

Where to Stay in Selçuk

• Hotel Mary’s House – family run hotel with handmade woodwork in bedrooms, a beautiful breakfast and a great location in the heart of Selcuk. We stayed here during our visit to Ephesus and loved it –  check prices now!
• Cella Boutique Hotel & Spa:  luxury boutique hotel with outdoor pool, a spa and Turkish baths close to the centre of Selcuk –  check prices here! – check prices now!
• Hotel Bella –  another great boutique option with Ottoman style furniture and a rooftop restaurant with great views of the fortress –  check prices here!

Click here for  Selçuk hotel prices

Days 19 and 20: Pergamon, Çanakkale, Troy and Gallipoli

After leaving Ephesus, we made a stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pergamon before spending two nights in Canakkale, a seafront town where the 2004 movie version of the wooden horse of Troy stands. Canakkale is a great base to explore Tory and Gallipoli.

Founded in 281 BC, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Pergamon was one of the most important cities of the ancient world. The city housed theatres, gymnasiums, the Great Altar and the library. The Trajan Temple is impressive and the theatre, the steepest surviving Roman Theatre, is a highlight. The nearby Asclepieion healing center is also an interesting visit.

With 4,000 years of history, the world famous archaeological site of Tory was immortalised by Homer in the Iliad as the site of the Trojan War. In an early beauty contest, Paris of Troy had to choose between the three beauties Hera, Athena and Aphrodite. Paris chose Aphrodite who had promised Paris the love of Helen, the Queen of Sparta. Paris’ subsequent abduction of Helen to Tory provoked the Trojan war.

The battlefield of Gallipoli saw immense bloodshed during World War I and many visit to pay their respects to the thousands of soldiers who lost their lives in the battle.

Where to Stay in Çanakkale

• Buyuk Truva Oteli:  simple and comfortable hotel overlooking the Sea of Marmara – check prices now!
• Hotel Limani:  a nice seafront hotel with functional rooms –  check prices now!
• Kervansaray Canakkale Hotel:  charming hotel located in an old mansion in the heart of Canakkale  – check prices now!

Click here for Çanakkale hotel prices

Day 21: Çanakkale to Bursa and Istanbul

After leaving Çanakkale we made a stop in the UNESCO city of Bursa before travelling to Istanbul, the final city in our Turkey itinerary.

Between 1335 and 1363 Bursa was the first major capital of the Ottoman State and was known as  Hüdavendigar, or God’s Gift, during the Ottoman period. Some of the highlights of the Bursa UNESCO include the Ulu Camii Mosque and the Osman and Orhan Gazi Tombs.

Days 22 to 25: Istanbul    

It’s hard not to fall in love with the vibrant, hip city of Istanbul and we recommend spending at least 3 nights exploring the city.  The eclectic mix of Europe and Asia, East and West and old and new make Istanbul an amazing spot.

Things to do in Istanbul

• The Blue Mosque
• Hagia Sofia
• Topaki Palace
• Basilica Cistern
• Grand Bazaar
• Istiklal Street
• Galata Tower and Bridge
• Bosphorus Strait
• Dolmabahçe Palace
• Chora Church
• Check out the best photo spots in Istanbul

Where to stay in Istanbul

We love staying in the historical district as the hotels are close to many of the major sights and we can walk or take the tram to sightsee.

• White House Hotel:  a fantastic hotel in a great location close to Hagia Sofia, Topaki Palace and the Blue Mosque. We’ve stayed here on many visits to Istanbul, it’s the perfect spot for exploring the city –   check prices now!
• Hotel Amira Istanbul:  a luxury hotel in the Sultanahmet district close to many of the major sites. The roof terrace has lovely sea views –  check prices now!
• Osmanhan Hotel:  another great option in the historical district, the Osmanhan has a rooftop terrace overlooking the Blue Mosque and the Marmara Sea – check prices now!

Click here for Old City hotel prices!

Extending the itinerary

Our detailed itinerary is ideal for a two-three week trip but there are other Turkey highlights which you might wish to include if you have additional time in the country:

• Mount Nemrut: deep in the Anatolian heartland massive statues of Greek and Persian gods scattered across a mountaintop. The road is closed during the winter months.
• Van: Lake Van is the largest lake in Turkey and has many historical sites.
• Trabzon: once an important stop on the Silk Road, Trabzon’s Hagia Sophia was built in the 13th Century and has served as a hospital, a museum and a mosque.
• Kars:  as a result of the 19th Century Russian Occupation Kars is like stepping into Russia. It’s also a base for exploring the ruins of an abandoned medieval Armenian city, Ani.
• check for travel advice before travelling. The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all travel to within 10 km of the border with Syria and to the city of Diyarbakir and all but essential travel to other parts of the south-east.
• Selimiye Mosque:  a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Erdine, 3 hours north-west of Istanbul. The Ottoman mosque is considered a highlight of architect Mimar Sinan’s work and one of the greatest achievements in Islamic architecture.

For more on Turkey

• Check out our guide to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites

4 thoughts on “The Ultimate Turkey Itinerary (2024)”

This itinerary blew my mind with its eye for detail. 👌

Thanks Elaine and Dave. We just visited Turkey for 13 days from 6 – 19 June and enjoyed every bit of it. Istanbul, Izmir, Seljuk, Pamukkale, Antalya, Cappadocia – all done in a hurriedly planned itinerary. Our regret was not visiting Sirince, the famous waterfalls, etc., but we were lucky to have enjoyed the hot air balloon ride with a parachute jumper with us because of whom we were taken to a height of 2000 metres. Overall, an amazing trip, good food, lovely people and awesome weather.

I found this super helpful to plan my trip. Thank you very much for all the information.

So happy it is useful. Have a great trip!

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Guide To Exploring Turkey: Everything You Need To Know! (2023)

Are you thinking about traveling to one of the world’s most fascinating countries? Exploring Turkey’s beautiful destinations, rich culture, and delicious food is epic. We visited almost every corner of Turkey and fell head-over-heels in love with this enchanting country and its beautiful people. In fact, it’s one of our favorite countries we’ve visited.

Turkey was the very first country we visited after starting our life of full-time travel . After our three-month slow-traveling adventure, we think we know a thing or two about exploring Turkey. We experienced bucket-list activities, historic cities, gorgeous Mediterranean beaches, and off-the-beaten-path destinations. The diversity of Turkey’s best places to visit is mind-blowing!

This post showcases everything we learned about this magnificent country while immersing ourselves in its magic. We include everything you need to know before your trip, unforgettable experiences, the best cities to visit, and hidden gems to discover while exploring Turkey!

What To Know About Exploring Turkey Before You Visit

Experience unforgettable turkey highlights, best cities to visit while exploring turkey, exploring off the beaten path turkey, other cities to visit while exploring turkey, final thoughts about exploring turkey.

Estimated reading time: 40 minutes

*Note: this post contains affiliate links. We receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from these links . Thanks in advance for supporting WOTW!

Ready To Start Exploring Turkey? Keep On Reading!

What Is Turkey Like?

There is no way to summarize what visiting Turkey is like in just a few words. This area was the commercial and cultural gateway between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. And Turkey shares borders with Greece and Bulgaria to the west, Iran to the east, Syria and Iraq to the southeast, and Georgia and Armenia to the northeast.

These distinct cultures (and more) have influenced Turkey’s current identity. And you will find that many of Turkey’s regions share cultural similarities with the closest neighboring countries. The result is a captivating melting pot of cultural influences that define Turkey’s different areas. For instance, Turkey’s Mediterranean cities are more similar to Greece than to more conservative destinations in Eastern Turkey.

You will be amazed by Turkey’s unique cultures and the diversity of its beautiful landscapes! But the kindness of the Turkish people is what will stick with us forever. They are welcoming, genuine, and kindhearted. Turkish people are the best!

Guess what? We made a video about everything you need to know before visiting Turkey! Check it out 🙂

Is Turkey Safe To Visit?

There is a large misconception about Turkey’s safety among travelers . We can say that we have never felt as safe traveling anywhere as we did in Turkey. Even when we traveled in Eastern Turkey, near the Syrian and Iraqi borders, we never felt the need to worry about anything. And remember that we spend the entire day walking around with cameras strapped around our necks!

We noticed that there is a tremendous amount of respect for people’s belongings and personal safety . While something can always go wrong, any negative experience is the exception, not the rule.

How To Get To Turkey?

Flying to turkey.

Most people visiting Turkey will arrive by plane . Several US cities offer direct flights into Istanbul. These include New York, Chicago, Washington DC, Miami, and Los Angeles. If you are not based around these metro areas, it’s still likely that you will connect through them, or through one of Europe’s hub airports.

If you are traveling from the UK you will have many more options to fly directly into Turkey’s many regional airports to start-off closer to your final destination.

Do You Need A Visa To Visit Turkey?

Visitors traveling with a US or Canadian passport need a visa to enter Turkey . Visas on arrival are available, but you’ll have to wait in line and pay cash. Visas on arrival cost 30 US, 25 Euros, or 20 GBP.

An e-visa is also available to most people traveling to Turkey . The e-visa is slightly more expensive, but the fees vary by country. You can find the prices for Turkish e-visa here .

Travelers from the UK, EU, or Australia/New Zealand can enter Turkey visa-free for visits up to 90 days . Not flying from one of these countries? Find Turkey’s visa requirements for other countries here .

WOTW Tip : if you require a visa to enter Turkey, then you will also need to have proof of travel insurance.

How To Get Around Turkey?

Turkey is a vast country, but getting around isn’t as complicated as you might imagine. The country’s phenomenal transportation system will make traveling through Turkey hassle-free. Your biggest issue will likely be long and exhausting travel days thanks to the significant distance between Turkey’s popular destinations.

Getting Around Turkey By Bus:

The most common way for travelers to get around Turkey is by bus . There are many bus companies you can use for inter-city travel, and they are generally clean, punctual and affordable.

Local mini-buses (pronounced ‘dolmush’) help visitors get around within cities and between short-distance local connections . They are extremely affordable and it’s worth figuring out the main routes for these mini buses wherever you stay.

WOTW Tip : we booked nearly all of our bus travel between cities on Obilet.com . We took like a million buses in Turkey and can totally recommend them. They even helped us get our money back when there was a last minute cancellation on one of our trips.

Curious to see what it’s like getting around Turkey by bus? Well, you are in luck because we recorded all of our bus rides throughout the country! Check out the videos about bus travel in Turkey .

Getting around Turkey by car:

Turkey’s highway system is terrific . And most of the best places to visit are easily accessed by road. The issue with getting around exclusively by car is that most car rental places don’t let you pick up in one location and drop off in another. That’s even true if you are renting from one of the big car rental companies.

But getting around Turkey by car is totally doable if you want to take some day trips or if you have a route that will bring you back to where you started. The only caveat I would add is that driving in Turkey’s major cities can be pretty crazy. So choose wisely where you plan to drive.

Getting around Turkey by train:

Traveling by train in Turkey is an affordable, but generally inconvenient option . You will find that trains are cheap, safe and clean. But we also heard that they are super slow and they don’t connect many parts of the country.

Train travel is also worthy of consideration if you’re visiting the country on a budget or if you’re not in a hurry . Check out the available train routes in Turkey .

Getting around Turkey by plane:

Domestic flights are often the most efficient option for long distance travel within Turkey. Domestic flights are cheap and offer good connections to the major cities in the country. In fact, it seems like every city in Turkey has a domestic airport .

The major airlines offering affordable domestic flights throughout Turkey are : Turkish Airlines , Pegasus Airlines , Sun Express and AnadoluJet .

Where To Stay During Your Turkey Visit?

Lodging options in Turkey are affordable and generally abundant . Most cities have plenty of hotels, Airbnbs, and Turkish B&B-style hotels (pansiyones) that you can choose to stay at.

Note that we had some trouble finding hotels in the center of town while exploring the Eastern-Turkish cities of Mardin and Sanliurfa . We were there in November, which coincided with some local or regional holidays, which made these destinations very busy.

WOTW Tip : Booking.com is blocked in Turkey. If you are an avid user of Booking and don’t have a VPN, then you will have to make your lodging arrangements before you arrive.

How Many Days Do You Need In Turkey?

Well, how many days do you have? Exploring all of Turkey is impossible during a single visit. The country is huge and incredibly diverse. There is a seemingly never-ending amount of things to do and places to discover in Turkey.

Obviously 99.9% of people have limited time to visit Turkey . But here at Ways of the World we are huge proponents of slow traveling. We suggest picking only a couple of destinations for an average 7-14 day trip. The last thing you want is to be spending most of your adventures in a bus or airplane!

When Is the Best Time To Visit Turkey?

The best time to visit Turkey depends on your travel preferences. And mostly I mean your tolerance for different types of weather and crowds. While all seasons have their advantages, you can choose the best places to visit based on the following advice:

• Visiting Turkey in the summer (June – September) : summer is the most popular time to visit Turkey. The crowds in major tourist destinations like Istanbul, Cappadocia and Pamukkale will be intense, and so will the heat. Consider including Turkey’s popular beach destinations to your itinerary if you are visiting during summer.
• Visiting Turkey in the fall (September – November) : we spent the entire fall exploring Turkey. The weather was consistently wonderful, and crowds everywhere were manageable. We also saw the leaves change color in Cappadocia and Rize! Just be aware that temperatures won’t be ideal if you plan to visit Turkey’s beach destinations later in the fall.
• Visiting Turkey in the winter (December – March) : if you don’t mind braving a bit of cold and rain, then winter is a great time to visit Turkey without the crowds. Just note that many restaurants/bars and activities may be closed or unavailable along Turkey’s coasts.
• Visiting Turkey in the spring (April – June) : moderate temperatures and fewer crowds make spring a great time to explore Turkey. Just keep in mind that some areas could be more rainy than usual.

How Much Do You Need For Your Turkey Travel Budget?

We found Turkey to be an extremely affordable country to travel through . In our three months traveling around Turkey, we spent about $1,750 US per month or $440 per week. Remember that we shopped at local markets, cooked for ourselves, and stayed at reasonable accommodations to keep down our costs of traveling full time.

WOTW Tip : Turkey’s currency is extremely volatile, and the country also experiences high levels of inflation. That being the case, prices for everything from foods to entrance fees change regularly.

Note : We made videos about literally everything on this list of unforgettable Turkey highlights! Check out the travel series from our 3 months exploring Turkey if you want to get a better look at these bucket-list experiences!

Map Of Turkey’s Best Experiences & Highlights

Enjoy A Hot Air Balloon Ride In Cappadocia

• Price : $85 – $150 per person depending on season and demand; pre-pandemic prices were around $400 US p/p.
• WOTW rating : 5/5

Tell anyone that you are going to Turkey, and they will ask if you are going hot air ballooning in Cappadocia . Floating over the area’s alien landscapes is not only one of the best things to do in Cappadocia , it’s also one of the most bucket-list-worthy activities in Turkey!

Before sunrise, about 100 hot air balloons rise simultaneously from Cappadocia’s magical valleys . The balloons float in between fairy chimneys and over ancient cave dwellings before rising up to see the sunrise behind the area’s massive volcanos. There is no better place to check ‘hot air balloon ride’ off your bucket list than in Cappadocia!

Check out the video of our amazing hot air ballooning experience in Cappadocia to see why this is at the top of the list of Turkey highlights.

• How to book a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia : highest-rated hot air balloon experience in Cappadocia .

Go Paragliding In Fethiye

• Price : $120 – $150 US per person.

Towering over Turkey’s famous Turquoise Coast is Babadağ mountain, one of the best paragliding spots in the entire world . Consistent ocean winds and a stunning backdrop of blue ocean and rugged mountains make paragliding in Fethiye my personal Turkey highlight.

The feeling of gliding through the air for up to 40 minutes is indescribable . After the adrenaline wears off, the experience of paragliding is surprisingly relaxed as you soar like a bird over the picture-perfect sea.

Check out the blog post about our paragliding experience in Fethiye for more details . Or watch me almost pass out above Oludeniz beach as my paragliding guide decided it would be fun to let me experience the joys of g-force.

• How to book paragliding in Fethiye : highest-rated paragliding experience in Fethiye .

Try Turkey’s Best Foods In Gaziantep

Gaziantep is the best place to go if you want to indulge in Turkey’s best foods . From kebabs to baklava, this city is known around the world for its superb cuisine. Gaziantep’s amazing dishes put it high up in the ranks of the world’s best culinary cities.

If you would even remotely describe yourself as a foodie, then Gaziantep should be high on your list of places to visit in Turkey . Our mouths water when reminiscing about delicious kebabs and the world’s best baklava . But remember that Turkish food is heavily spiced, so don’t forget to drink plenty of ayran , and bring some heartburn medication. I’m not kidding!

Make sure to watch our DIY food tour in Gaziantep if you want to sample the best cuisine in Turkey!

• Where to try many of Gaziantep’s best foods : İmam Çağdaş Kebap ve Baklava Salonu, Gaziantep, Turkey is famous for its kebabs and baklava.

2023 update: on February 6th, a devastating earthquake destroyed much of Gaziantep and surrounding areas. This heartbreaking disaster took countless lives and displaced many people from the region. While visiting Gaziantep would help bring much-needed financial support to a desperate city, please check updated information to see if it’s possible and safe.

Visit The Sümela Monastery

• Price : 75 Lira, per person ($6.50 US).

A visit to Sümela Monastery is a must if you are lucky enough to explore Turkey’s beautiful Trabzon and Rize regions . Hanging on the side of a mountain in Altindere National Park , Sümela Monastery is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful monasteries in the world!

Sümela Monastery sits majestically perched in a beautiful mountain setting. It’s unimaginable to think how the location was discovered and how construction began all the way back in the 4th century.

We couldn’t enter Sümela Monastery due to it being closed for upkeep and maintenance . But those lucky enough to enter will find beautifully restored frescos and unforgettable views. A fresco of the Virgin Mary is even said to be painted by Apostle Luke!

• Where to find Sümela Monestary : Sümela Monastery, Trabzon, Turkey .

WOTW Tip : want to add a little adventure to your visit? Consider taking a guided hike to Sümela Monastery through the pristine national park to the monastery.

Witness A Whirling Dervish Ceremony

• Price : 30 Lira per person ($3.15 US).

There aren’t many Turkey experiences as unique as the Whirling Dervish ceremony . This ceremony is associated with the Mevlevi Order of Sufism based in Konya, Turkey. The dervishes enter a trance-like state as they spin to the traditional music played by musicians stationed next to them. This Whirling Dervishes are fascinating to watch, and the ceremony holds deep meaning for those who partake in it.

Watching the whirling dervish ceremony was hands-down one of the most unique Turkey highlights we experienced . We felt unbelievably grateful for the opportunity to experience a tradition and culture so unique and special. It is worth traveling to Konya, Turkey just to witness this enchanting spiritual event.

• Where to experience the Whirling Dervishes : Mevlana Cultural Center, Konya, Turkey.

WOTW Tip : want to experience what it’s like to be a whirling dervish? Check out this unique dervish experience! Just get ready to be super dizzy 🥴

Bathe In A Traditional Istanbul Hammam Spa

• Price : $40 – $60 US per person.

You shouldn’t leave Istanbul without experiencing a traditional Turkish bath . The Turkish bath, or hammam, is an activity that dates back to when Istanbul was still known as Constantinople. Many hammam spas were ornately built for important figures of the Ottoman Empires. And the experience today still feels super luxurious.

The hammam bath is a great way to experience an authentic Turkish ritual . And you won’t find the real thing anywhere else, so add this to you itinerary when exploring Istanbul . You will feel like a sultan after getting scrubbed.

• Where to enjoy a Turkish bath in Istanbul : Kılıc Ali Pasa Hamam, Karaköy, Istanbul.

Explore Ground Zero Of Human Civilization At Göbeklitepe

• Price : 65 Lira per person ($5.50).

We’ll be the first to admit that Göbeklitepe isn’t the most picturesque place to visit in Turkey. But this ancient temple is believed to be the world’s earliest place of worship. Göbeklitepe is described as the birthplace of human civilization. How cool is that?! The historic temple is estimated to be 11,500 years old! That’s around 2.5 times older than the pyramids in Egypt!

Located near the Eastern-Turkish city of Sanliurfa, Göbeklitepe is one of the more undiscovered Turkey highlights on this list . And although the ruins themselves aren’t epic, the opportunity to learn about the oldest human settlement from ground zero is unforgettable. If part of the reason you want to explore Turkey is its role in ancient history, then make sure to make time for visiting Göbeklitepe.

• Where to find Göbeklitepe : Göbeklitepe, Sanliurfa, Turkey .

View Sunset From Pamukkale’s Cotton Castle

• Price : 110 Lira per person ($11.30 US)

Pamukkale’s Cotton Castle is a unique and stunningly beautiful natural wonder . With its white travertine cliffs that cascade down to form incredible aqua-marine pools, Pamukkale’s landscape is unlike anywhere else. The downside is that it gets extremely busy. And depending on how you feel about crowds, your experience may be impacted by the massive crowds of selfie-stick wielding travelers.

But not to worry, many of the day-tripping tour groups start to leave around sunset time . Your patience will be rewarded with one of the best sunset views you are likely to experience in your life. Head down the walkway past to concession stands away from the entrance to the travertine cliffs, you’ll find yourself a (somewhat) secret sunset spot where you can enjoy an unforgettable Pamukkale sunset.

• Where to find Pamukkale’s Cotton Castle : Travertines of Pamukkale, Denizli, Turkey.

WOTW Tip: its hard to exclude the Cotton Castle from a list of Turkey highlights, but besides for the epic sunset from our ‘secret spot’, we found the overall experience so-so. Check out our post about 37 things nobody tells you about visiting Pamukkale to find out why!

Be Amazed By Turkey’s Turquoise Coast

• Price : N/A

Prepare to be amazed by this country’s Turquoise Coast . Exploring Turkey’s incredible Mediterranean coast is a highlight for any ocean lover. Get ready to experience rustic towns, crystal clear water, and beautiful beaches perfect for lazy days in the sun.

Adventurous travelers can find their own hidden coves and sandy beaches along the beautiful coast . All that’s needed is your own transportation and a willingness to explore.

• Where to discover Turkey’s unexplored coast : Kaleköy and Çirali are some of our favorite undiscovered beach towns. And we have to mention Kas’ amazing beaches . But people searching for their own private paradise should park their car on the side of the road in this secluded part of the Turquoise Coast .

Discover Cappadocia’s Magical Valleys

• Price : generally free, though some valleys may ask a small fee to enter/park with a vehicle.

It’s hard to put Cappadocia’s surreal landscape into words . And there is no better way to experience the region’s otherworldly beauty than by hiking through its valleys. Millions of years of erosion created some of the most unique landscapes you will ever see. Wandering around these valleys is an under-appreciated Turkey highlight.

With each step you take, you will enjoy beautiful views of the valleys while marveling at the ancient cave dwellings found all over Cappadocia . The famous fairy chimneys dot the landscape inside the area’s beautiful valleys, and wandering around will make you feel like you are on a magical new planet.

Make sure to hike through Cappadocia’s valley around sunset , when the sinking sun paints the valleys in an ever-changing display of pinks and reds. Trust us, you don’t want to miss it!

• Where to explore Cappadocia’s magical valleys : Red Valley and Love Valley are two great hikes easily accessible from Cappadocia’s main towns.

See Istanbul’s Magnificent Mosques

• Price : free to enter

While beautiful mosques can be found all over Turkey, nothing compares to the beauty and grandeur of Istanbul’s most famous mosques . The Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet (Blue Mosque), and Suleymaniye are three of the most magnificent mosques in town. Remnants of Istanbul’s glory days as the capital city of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, these mosques feature stunning architecture, ornate interiors, and massive size.

Make sure to learn about the incredible history of these iconic mosques . While they certainly make for great pictures, understanding their role in Istanbul’s complicated past will make your trip so much more rewarding!

• Where to see many of Istanbul’s most beautiful mosques : Istanbul’s Fatih district is home to the incredible Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet and Suleymaniye Mosques.

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Note : there are blog posts about all the incredible cities and regions mentioned in this section. Just follow the bolded link to discover more about the places in Turkey you want to visit! Or jump to our destinations page to see everything in one place.

Map Of The Best Cities To Visit In Turkey

• Location : Istanbul, Turkey .

Istanbul has to be first on any list of best cities to visit in Turkey . This city on two continents offers so much to people lucky enough to explore it, and it exceeds expectations in every way. Exploring Istanbul’s wonderful attractions is a must for people visiting Turkey.

Among Istanbul’s famous landmarks are the iconic Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Golden Horn and Topkapi Palace . Some of these sites are directly out of a postcard, seemingly untouched by time.

Istanbul is grand, fascinating, hectic, delicious, and every other positive adjective you can think of . You’ll never get tired of Istanbul’s phenomenal foods , eclectic neighborhoods, epic sunsets, and constant stimulation. Whether you want luxurious or local experiences, trendy or traditional. We promise that Istanbul is everything you could ever dream of and more!

• Location : Konya, Turkey .

When we told people around Turkey that we spent a week in Konya , we were looked at like we were crazy . ‘Why did you stay so long in such a boring place?’ We could not have a more opposite perspective of visiting Konya .

Konya was easily one of the best cities we visited in Turkey . And it was the first place in Turkey where we got off the tourist trail and felt exposed to an entirely foreign culture. Konya is known as the most conservative city in Turkey. Spend time here, and you’ll be sure to notice more traditional clothing and an incomprehensible amount of mosques.

We were fascinated by Konya’s unique religious history, magnificent mosques, and delicious foods! But we were also surprised by how trendy and cool some areas felt. Konya is a city that defies all expectations!

• WOTW rating : 4/5
• Location : Fethiye, Turkey.

Fethiye was our first destination from our wonderful Turkey trip . It was a perfect welcome to a country that would completely steal our hearts. But while Fethiye would never get confused for being one of the best cities in Turkey for cultural immersion, it is a convenient place if you are seeking an action-packed beach vacation.

As one of Turkey’s more popular tourist destinations, Fethiye has plenty of water-based activities and tours to keep visitors happy . But beyond island tours and water sports, the surrounding area is known for its beautiful beaches. There are also great day trips from Fethiye to Saklikent National Park and the ancient city of Tlos.

WOTW Tip : you will find pictures of heavenly beaches if you search Google images for Fethiye . But newsflash, most of those beaches are not in the city of Fethiye. Fethiye has an okay beach near the center of town, but most of the pictures are from neighboring Oludeniz.

• Location : Mardin, Turkey .

Mardin is a mountain-top city in Eastern Turkey relatively unknown to most people exploring Turkey . The picturesque ancient city is recognized for its gorgeous Assyrian architecture and its history of religious and cultural tolerance. Our favorite part of visiting Mardin was getting lost through the city’s narrow alleyways.

Mardin is a great city to visit in Turkey due to the variety of sights combined with luxurious lodging and dining options . Because who doesn’t love fine dining and luxurious hotels after exploring an area’s cultural sites?

• Location : Cappadocia, Turkey .

Okay, so technically Cappadocia is not a city. But the towns that make up what is frequently referred to as Cappadocia belong on any list of must-visit destinations in Turkey . Cappadocia is a dream. But not everyone knows that there are so many more fantastic experiences in Cappadocia beyond hot air balloon rides and cave hotels.

We think Cappadocia deserves a spot on Turkey’s best cities thanks to its otherworldly landscapes, epic hiking, and rich history . Few places in Turkey offer such a diverse set of equally amazing attractions. You are guaranteed to have an unforgettable time exploring Cappadocia during your Turkey visit!

Curious to know more about one of the most famous destinations in all of Turkey? Make sure to read 21 Things You Need To Know Before Visiting Cappadocia!

• WOTW rating : 3.5/5
• Location : Sanliurfa, Turkey.

Known as the city of prophets, most people visit Sanliurfa Turkey for its large number of religiously and historically significant sites . It is home to several significant sites related to the prophets Abraham and Job. These fascinating attractions draw in thousands as a popular pilgrimage destination for Christians, Jews, and especially Muslims.

Being situated in eastern Turkey also gives Sanliurfa a more Middle Eastern feel than many of the country’s coastal areas . Imagine hectic local markets, energetic streets, and beautiful stone architecture.

Don’t miss adding Sanliurfa to your list of cities to visit in Turkey if you are a fan of religious history! You can get a sneak peak of what it’s like by watching our video from one of Turkey’s holiest cities.

WOTW Tip : Sanliurfa can become pretty lively at night. Many visitors come to Sanliurfa for its Sira Nights, which are high-energy performances of traditional music. Sometimes hotels host these events in their courtyards (like ours did). The results can be highly unpleasant for people trying to sleep.

This section is dedicated to our favorite Turkey hidden gems. Exploring these places was a highlight of our travels through Turkey. We would also describe previously mentioned cities like Konya, Sanliurfa and Mardin as off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Map Of Off The Beaten Path Destinations In Turkey

• Location : Kas, Antalya, Turkey .

While it may not stay off-the-beaten-path for long, Kas is still unknown to most people interested in exploring Turkey . This little beach town is a 2-hour drive from major airports, making it just too far for most people visiting for a beach vacation. But you will be rewarded by putting in a little extra effort to discover this piece of Turkish paradise.

Kas has no major hotel chains and zero kitschy beach-town vibes. What it does have is gorgeous beaches, crystal clear water, epic day-trip opportunities, a great bohemian atmosphere, and terrific nightlife. Kas is so cool it’s pronounced ‘Cash.’

Kas was one of the most unforgettable places we visited in Turkey!

• Location : Amasra, Turkey.

Located on the Black Sea coast in the Bartin province lies the town of Amasra – one of Turkey’s hidden treasures . The small fishing village is popular with locals from nearby cities when they want to escape Turkey’s hectic urban life for something a little more peaceful.

Amasra is tiny! And besides for having drinks along the water and exploring Amasra’s quirky streets, there isn’t a ton to do. Which makes it a perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for those that want to recharge in a postcard-worthy little town.

• Location : Avanos, Turkey .

Staying in Avanos while visiting the Cappadocia area was one of the best travel decisions we ever made . We read that Avanos felt more local than the more famous towns around Cappadocia, which was 100% true. We made lasting friends while visiting Avanos and had the most unforgettable moments of our Turkey visit.

Read about what nobody tells you about visiting this region for more hot tips about visiting Cappadocia!

Cappadocia’s main town of Göreme is super hectic because of the massive number of visitors it receives . Consider visiting Avanos if you are looking for a more local experience while exploring Turkey. This is a place we will definitely be returning to.

Bonus points for Avanos’ wine bars 🙂

• Where to find Avanos in Cappadocia : Avanos, Nevşehir, Turkey .

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• WOTW rating : 4/5 (though depends on the season you visit)
• Location : Uzungöl, Turkey .

Uzungöl is a lovely little lake town tucked away in the Trabzon region’s mountains . This town’s setting is absolutely stunning, and one can easily spend the day strolling around the lake and taking in the views with a nice warm glass of Turkish tea.

We visited Uzungöl in November when the town was quiet, and many attractions were closed. But we loved having the place nearly to ourselves to just enjoy the serene setting. This remote area is wonderful for enjoying the peaceful surroundings and beautiful views from mountainside restaurants . And even explore some of the region’s lesser-known yaylas !

WOTW Tip : Uzungöl is not off-the-beaten-path for everyone. It is very popular with Saudi Arabian travelers. And because of differing travel styles, the attractions in the town would likely come across as kitschy to western travelers.

Rize Province

• Location : Rize, Turkey .

Tucked away in northeast Turkey lies Rize – one of the country’s most beautiful places to visit . Local people’s eyes lit up when we told them we were headed to Rize province. Rize is known for its pristine natural beauty. Think stunning snow-capped mountains, whitewater rivers, lush alpine meadows, and dense pine forests. Rize is an outdoors lover’s dream!

Exploring Rize, Turkey is for those seeking adventure . And while the Çamlihemşin region within Rize is starting to gain recognition among travelers, this area is still prime for those looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences. And we understand why. It was one of our favorite places to visit in Turkey!

Believe it or not, three months is not enough to see everything in Turkey . We had to save something for the next time we visit one of our absolute favorite countries! Here’s our list of other cities we hope to visit when we explore Turkey again.

• Location: Izmir, Turkey .

Izmir is a complete package of urban appeal, coastal living, and accessibility to some of Turkey’s most popular attractions . Most people visiting Izmir come to explore the famous ancient-Greek ruins at Ephesus . But the city itself also has a rich cultural heritage, and travelers will discover bustling bazaars, lively squares, and beautiful mosques.

Izmir is often generally referred to as the area’s beautiful coastal area, but many visitors actually spend their time in popular beach towns like Alaçatı and Çeşme . Nevertheless, the city of Izmir is still a great place to explore, with the added bonus of being well-situated to a diverse number of sites.

• Location : Bursa, Turkey .

Along with Izmir, Bursa is the other major city we feel we missed out on while exploring Turkey . Located near Istanbul in northwestern Turkey, Bursa was the original capital of the Ottoman Empire . Today people visiting Bursa will find unique historical sites and modern neighborhoods to explore.

Bursa is a beautiful city, and it’s known as the gateway to many of Turkey’s most famous attractions . It has an old and new town, great markets, breathtaking mosques and palaces, and a lot more. This place is definitely worth visiting for any tourist!

• Location: Antalya, Turkey .

Located on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, Antalya strikes a balance between urban center, beach town, and historical destination. Want to have access to everything from one convenient spot? Then Antalya might be for you!

Some swear by Antalya’s appeal due to its mix of coastal vibes with urban sensibilities . Other people dismiss it as just another city that should be used as a gateway to Turkey’s better-kept secrets. While both perspectives are valid, it depends on what you are looking for at the end of the day!

• Location : Ankara, Turkey .

Ankara was originally part of our Turkey itinerary. However, some local feedback made us reconsider our plans. We ultimately decided to just slow down to spend more time in other destinations.

That’s not to say we wouldn’t love to one day visit Turkey’s capital city . But in the grand scheme of things, Ankara offers travelers fewer attractions than Turkey’s other popular places to visit.

As Turkey’s second-largest city and political hub, Ankara is modern and developed . And passing through we noticed newly-built shopping centers, theme parks, and sparkling apartment complexes. Ankara is great for people who want to experience a bustling city without tourists!

It’s easy to fall in love with Turkey’s beautiful places and friendly people . We could not recommend visiting this incredible country enough. Even after spending 3 months there, we know that we will be back to keep exploring Turkey.

We are beyond grateful for the genuine hospitality and friendship. There is no way we could have imagined a better start to our life of full-time travel . Thanks, Turkey!

We hope this list has helped you decide which cities and activities to experience during your own Turkey adventures. Have fun!

Thanks for reading!

Are you ready to buy that plane ticket to Turkey? Have any questions about exploring Turkey? Reach out in the comments or DM us on Instagram!

Ready to plan your trip to Turkey? Read these posts next:

• Istanbul : Ultimate Guide To 27 Epic Things To Do In Istanbul
• Istanbul: Guide To The Best Areas To Stay In Istanbul
• Pamukkale : 15 Incredible Things To Do In Pamukkale
• Oludeniz : 9 Popular Things To Do In Oludeniz

Tired of reading? We have an entire Turkey Travel Series on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe while you’re there to follow along with with the adventures 🙂

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Travel Within Turkey

Are you ready to embark on a mesmerizing journey within the vibrant country of Turkey? From the bustling markets of Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, there is an abundance of awe-inspiring destinations awaiting your exploration. Whether you prefer to wander through picturesque landscapes, indulge in tantalizing culinary delights, or immerse yourself in rich history and culture, Turkey offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. Get ready to be captivated by the beauty, charm, and unparalleled hospitality that awaits you as you travel within Turkey.

Table of Contents

Transportation options

When it comes to getting around Turkey, you have several transportation options to choose from. Whether you prefer to travel by air, train, bus, car, or boat, each option offers its own unique advantages.

Traveling by air is the quickest and most convenient way to cover long distances within Turkey. With numerous domestic airports located throughout the country, you can easily reach major cities and popular tourist destinations in no time. Turkish Airlines, the national carrier, offers frequent flights and a modern fleet, ensuring a comfortable journey.

If you enjoy scenic journeys and a relaxed pace of travel, exploring Turkey by train is a delightful option. The country’s rail network connects major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, offering breathtaking views of the countryside along the way. From comfortable seating to sleeper compartments, train travel in Turkey is a convenient and eco-friendly choice.

For an affordable and convenient mode of transportation, consider traveling by bus. Turkey’s extensive bus network covers both short and long distances, making it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. The buses are comfortable, equipped with amenities like Wi-Fi and air conditioning, and they provide an opportunity to see the beautiful Turkish landscapes as you travel.

If you prefer the freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a car is a great option. Turkey has a well-maintained network of roads, making it easy to navigate between cities and attractions. Driving in Turkey is on the right side of the road, and road signs are usually in both Turkish and English. Just make sure to have an international driver’s license and familiarize yourself with local traffic laws.

With its extensive coastline and numerous ports, traveling by boat is a fantastic way to experience Turkey’s coastal beauty. From ferry rides between Istanbul and the Prince’s Islands to cruises along the stunning Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, there are plenty of options to choose from. Discover hidden coves, vibrant seaside towns, and picture-perfect islands as you embark on a memorable maritime adventure.

Traveling to major cities

Turkey is home to several vibrant and culturally rich cities that are well worth exploring. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the modern capital city of Ankara, and the coastal charms of Izmir and Antalya, each city offers its own unique blend of history, culture, and modernity.

As the gateway to Turkey, Istanbul is a mesmerizing city where the East meets the West. Explore the iconic Hagia Sophia, visit the stunning Blue Mosque, and wander through the bustling markets of the Grand Bazaar. Take a cruise along the Bosphorus, indulging in breathtaking views, and savor the diverse culinary delights that Istanbul has to offer.

As the capital of Turkey, Ankara boasts a rich historical heritage and modern contemporary charm. Visit the impressive Ataturk Mausoleum, explore the fascinating Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, and discover the vibrant local art scene in trendy neighborhoods. Ankara is a city of contrasts, blending tradition with progress, making it a unique destination to experience.

Located on the stunning Aegean coast, Izmir is a city known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus, where you can walk in the footsteps of ancient civilizations, and relax in the trendy Alsancak district, known for its bustling cafes and lively entertainment venues.

Nestled along the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, Antalya is a coastal paradise that offers a mix of ancient history and natural beauty. Discover the well-preserved Roman ruins of Aspendos, embark on a boat tour to explore the breathtakingly beautiful Duden Waterfalls, and soak up the sun on the pristine beaches of Lara and Konyaalti.

Exploring historical sites

Turkey is renowned for its rich historical heritage, with countless ancient sites and archaeological wonders waiting to be explored. From the ancient city of Ephesus to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, history buffs and culture enthusiasts will be captivated by the historical sites Turkey has to offer.

Step back in time as you explore the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. Marvel at the grand Library of Celsus, walk along the marble-paved streets, and admire the intricate details of the Great Theater. Ephesus provides a fascinating glimpse into the ancient world and is a must-visit destination for history lovers.

Famous for its striking white terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters, Pamukkale is a natural wonder that is sure to leave you in awe. Take a dip in the crystal-clear travertine pools, visit the ancient Roman spa city of Hierapolis, and witness the stunning sunset over this unique landscape. Pamukkale is an unforgettable destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty and historical significance.

Known for its surreal landscapes and unique rock formations, Cappadocia is a destination like no other. Explore the ancient cave cities of Derinkuyu and Kaymakli, take a hot air balloon ride to witness the magical sunrise, and wander through the fairy chimneys of Goreme Open-Air Museum. Cappadocia’s otherworldly charm will transport you to a different time and place.

Immerse yourself in Greek mythology as you visit the ruins of Troy, the ancient city made famous by Homer’s Iliad. Explore the reconstructed city walls, see the remnants of the ancient Troy in the archaeological site, and learn about the fascinating history of this legendary city. Troy provides a captivating glimpse into the past and offers a unique blend of history and mythology.

Coastal destinations

With its stunning coastline along the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, Turkey is a haven for beach lovers and sun-seekers. From the vibrant resort town of Bodrum to the picturesque beauty of Fethiye and the sandy beaches of Alanya and Kusadasi, there’s a coastal destination for every taste.

Known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches, Bodrum is a popular destination for those seeking a lively coastal experience. Explore the medieval Bodrum Castle, relax on the golden sands of Gumbet Beach, and immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of Bar Street. Bodrum offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and beachside fun.

Nestled between towering mountains and the pristine turquoise waters, Fethiye is a coastal gem that offers a tranquil escape. Explore the captivating rock-cut tombs of Lycian civilization, sail along the stunning Blue Lagoon, and hike through the breathtaking Saklikent Gorge. Fethiye is a paradise for nature lovers, with its stunning landscapes and crystal-clear waters.

With its sun-drenched beaches, azure waters, and a vibrant city center, Alanya is a popular destination for sun-seekers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Visit the well-preserved Alanya Castle for panoramic views of the city and coastline, relax on the sandy Cleopatra Beach, and explore the fascinating Damlataş Cave. Alanya offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.

Located on the Aegean coast, Kusadasi is a vibrant resort town that serves as a gateway to historical sites like Ephesus and Dilek Peninsula National Park. Soak up the sun on the sandy beaches, explore the vibrant bazaars and boutique shops, and visit the impressive Pigeon Island. Kusadasi offers a laid-back seaside retreat with plenty of activities to keep you entertained.

Visiting natural wonders

Turkey is blessed with a diverse range of natural wonders, from cascading terraces to towering mountains and lush national parks. Immerse yourself in the country’s natural beauty as you visit the following destinations.

Pamukkale terraces

The stunning Pamukkale terraces, with their white mineral-rich travertine terraces, are a sight to behold. These natural wonders are created by the thermal waters, which cascade gracefully down the mountainside, creating a surreal landscape. Take a relaxing dip in the terraces’ warm waters and enjoy the therapeutic benefits they are believed to offer.

Mount Ararat

For adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, Mount Ararat is a must-visit destination. Located in eastern Turkey, Mount Ararat is the country’s highest peak and holds significant religious and historical importance. While climbing the mountain requires expertise and proper equipment, witnessing its majestic beauty from afar is an awe-inspiring experience.

Sumela Monastery

Nestled on the side of a mountain, Sumela Monastery is a hidden treasure that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and spiritual tranquility. Explore the elaborately decorated frescoes and murals within the monastery’s walls, take in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of this ancient place of worship.

Göreme National Park

Step into a fairy tale at Göreme National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique rock formations, known as fairy chimneys. Explore the otherworldly landscapes of this surreal park, visit the rock-cut churches adorned with ancient frescoes, and take a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s-eye view of this magical wonderland.

Cultural experiences

One of the highlights of visiting Turkey is immersing yourself in its vibrant, diverse culture. From indulging in the delicious Turkish cuisine to experiencing the traditional hamams, there are plenty of cultural experiences to enhance your trip.

Turkish cuisine

Turkish cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors influenced by Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian cuisines. Don’t miss the opportunity to try popular dishes like kebabs, mezes (appetizers), baklava (a sweet pastry), and Turkish tea. Explore the bustling food markets, street stalls, and traditional restaurants to savor the authentic flavors of Turkish cuisine.

Turkish baths (hamams)

Experience the ultimate relaxation by indulging in a traditional Turkish bath, also known as a hamam. This centuries-old tradition involves a ritual of steam, scrubbing, and massage, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Immerse yourself in the warm marble surroundings, unwind with a soothing massage, and embrace this important aspect of Turkish culture.

Traditional music and dance

Turkey’s rich cultural heritage is best experienced through its traditional music and dance. From the vibrant, energetic moves of the belly dance to the soul-stirring melodies of Turkish folk music, attending a traditional music and dance performance is a feast for the senses. Watch as skilled performers captivate the audience with their artistry and immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats and melodic tunes.

Turkish festivals and events

Throughout the year, Turkey plays host to a variety of festivals and events that showcase its vibrant culture and traditions. From the Whirling Dervishes Festival in Konya to the International Istanbul Film Festival, there’s always something happening to celebrate art, music, food, and more. Check the calendar and plan your visit to coincide with one of these lively events for an unforgettable cultural experience.

Adventure tourism

Turkey’s diverse landscapes provide a playground for adventure enthusiasts seeking thrilling experiences. From hot air ballooning over Cappadocia to paragliding in Oludeniz, there’s no shortage of adrenaline-pumping activities to enjoy.

Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia

Soar above the fairy chimneys and surreal landscapes of Cappadocia in a hot air balloon for a truly unforgettable experience. Gaze in awe at the sunrise or sunset as you float peacefully in the sky, marveling at the spectacular views below. This bucket-list activity is a magical way to appreciate the unique beauty of Cappadocia.

Paragliding in Oludeniz

For adrenaline junkies, paragliding in Oludeniz is a must-do activity. Soar through the skies like a bird as you take in the panoramic views of the stunning beach, azure waters, and rugged mountains. Experienced instructors will guide you through this thrilling adventure, ensuring a safe and exhilarating experience.

White-water rafting in Antalya

Explore Turkey’s breathtaking natural landscapes from a different perspective by white-water rafting in Antalya. Navigate through rushing rivers and exhilarating rapids, surrounded by stunning scenery and the thrill of adventure. With professional guides to ensure your safety, this adrenaline-fueled activity is perfect for those seeking a memorable outdoor experience.

Rock climbing in Geyikbayiri

For rock climbing enthusiasts, Geyikbayiri offers world-class climbing routes and breathtaking views. Located just a short drive from Antalya, this limestone paradise provides challenging climbs for climbers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced climber, Geyikbayiri is a fantastic destination to challenge yourself and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings.

Shopping in Turkey

Turkey is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide range of unique and exotic products. From bustling bazaars to specialty markets and antique shops, there are plenty of opportunities to find treasures to take home as souvenirs.

Grand Bazaar in Istanbul

As one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is a shopper’s paradise. Explore the maze-like streets lined with shops selling everything from jewelry and textiles to spices and ceramics. Practice your bargaining skills as you hunt for the perfect souvenir or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling market.

Spice Bazaar in Istanbul

Immerse yourself in the aromatic world of spices at the Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar. Marvel at the colorful displays of herbs, teas, and spices, and indulge your senses in the fragrant aromas that fill the air. Stock up on exotic spices or sample traditional Turkish delights like Turkish delight or baklava from the local vendors.

Markets in Izmir

Izmir is home to several vibrant markets where you can find a variety of goods, from fresh produce to traditional handicrafts. Visit the Kemeralti Market, the city’s largest bazaar, and explore its narrow streets filled with shops selling textiles, ceramics, and antiques. The Alsancak Fish Market is a must-visit for seafood lovers, offering an array of fresh catches from the Aegean Sea.

Antique shops in Cappadocia

Cappadocia is a treasure trove for antique enthusiasts, with numerous shops and markets offering a wide range of unique pieces. From intricately handwoven rugs and antique ceramics to Ottoman-era furniture and traditional jewelry, the antique shops in Cappadocia offer an opportunity to take a piece of Turkey’s rich history back home with you.

Turkish hospitality

No trip to Turkey is complete without experiencing the legendary Turkish hospitality. From staying in boutique hotels to homestays in rural areas, interacting with warm and friendly locals, and immersing yourself in the country’s tea and coffee culture, here are some ways to embrace the Turkish hospitality.

Staying in boutique hotels

Turkey is home to a wide range of boutique hotels that offer personalized service, unique designs, and authentic cultural experiences. Stay in restored Ottoman mansions or cave hotels carved into the rock formations of Cappadocia, and enjoy the warm hospitality and attention to detail that boutique accommodations provide.

Homestays in rural areas

For a truly immersive experience in Turkish culture, consider staying in a homestay in rural areas. Experience the daily life of local families, learn about traditional crafts and agricultural practices, and indulge in homemade meals prepared with love and care. Homestays provide an intimate and authentic way to connect with the local community and gain a deeper understanding of Turkish traditions and customs.

Turkish tea and coffee culture

Turkish tea and coffee are not just beverages; they are an integral part of Turkish culture and hospitality. Engage in the time-honored tradition of drinking Turkish tea by sitting at a traditional tea garden or a charming tea house. Experience the art of brewing and savoring Turkish coffee, complete with the ritual of fortune-telling from the coffee grounds. Allow these cultural traditions to warm your heart and connect you with the welcoming Turkish people.

Warm and friendly locals

Above all, it is the warm and friendly nature of the Turkish people that truly sets Turkey apart as a destination. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the quiet villages in the countryside, you will be greeted with open arms and smiling faces everywhere you go. Whether you need directions, recommendations, or a friendly chat, don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with the locals and experience the genuine warmth and hospitality that Turkish people are known for.

Safety tips for travelers

While Turkey is generally a safe country to visit, it’s always a good idea to take some precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Here are some safety tips for travelers to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Follow COVID-19 guidelines

Given the current global pandemic, it is essential to stay updated on the latest COVID-19 guidelines and travel restrictions before your trip. Follow local regulations, wear a mask in crowded areas, practice good hygiene, and maintain social distancing whenever possible. Stay informed about the COVID-19 situation in the areas you plan to visit and make necessary adjustments to your travel plans if needed.

Beware of pickpockets

As with any popular tourist destination, it is important to be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid carrying large sums of cash or valuable items and use a money belt or a secure bag to protect your belongings.

Be cautious of street vendors

While street vendors can add to the vibrant atmosphere of Turkish markets, it is important to exercise caution when interacting with them. Some vendors may try to overcharge or engage in dishonest practices. Always negotiate prices, be cautious of counterfeit products, and only purchase from reputable vendors.

Use registered tour guides

When exploring historical sites or participating in organized tours, it is recommended to use registered tour guides. They are knowledgeable about the history and cultural significance of the sites and can enhance your experience. Registered tour guides are licensed and trained, ensuring your safety and providing accurate information.

By considering these tips and embracing the friendly and welcoming culture of Turkey, you can have a memorable and fulfilling travel experience in this beautiful country. From exploring historical sites and enjoying coastal destinations to indulging in Turkish cuisine and embarking on thrilling adventures, Turkey offers something for every traveler. So, pack your bags, embrace the warm hospitality, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through this fascinating country.

10 of the best places to visit in Türkiye

Dec 14, 2023 • 6 min read

Plan your visit to Türkiye with these top places to see © rudi_suardi / Getty Images

The eclectic city of Istanbul, the fantastical rock forms of Cappadocia, the ancient ruins of Ephesus, and the glimmering Mediterranean and Aegean coastlines are Türkiye ’s biggest draws, but each region of the country has something distinct to offer.

The diversity of landscapes, heritage and culinary culture will surprise those who have never ventured beyond holiday resorts and the beach. Even though it’s easy to get around Türkiye , the country has too much to see and do to tackle it all on one trip. Because most domestic flights route through Istanbul, spend at least a few days in this dynamic global metropolis before heading out to one of our other top places to visit in Türkiye.

1. Istanbul

Best for ancient sites and modern neighborhoods

One of the world’s greatest cities, Istanbul should be on every traveler’s must-visit list. Highlight sights like the grand Byzantine basilica Aya Sofya , often called Hagia Sophia in English, and the Ottoman sultans’ lavish Topkapı Palace attest to the city’s centuries-long history as the capital of powerful empires.

But set aside some time to experience Istanbul as it is today, too. Go cafe- or bar-hopping in the hip Kadıköy neighborhood, wander the backstreets of more conservative Fatih or peruse contemporary art in Beyoğlu . Don’t forget the simple pleasure of drinking çay (tea) on the ferry while taking in spectacular views of the city.

Planning tip:  You could easily spend your entire vacation in Istanbul, but if you have the time, it's worth venturing further afield in search of other Turkish delights.

2. Cappadocia

Best for its unique landscape

Cappadocia is a geological wonderland in the center of Türkiye. The history of early Christians in Anatolia comes alive at the Göreme Open-Air Museum and the other cave churches and underground cities scattered around the valley. Romance blossoms in the area’s cozy cave hotels and restaurants, not to mention sunrise balloon rides complete with a champagne toast. Adventure awaits amid the green valleys and undulating rocks for hikers, mountain bikers and trail runners .

3. Turquoise Coast

Best for history lovers and beaches

Yes, Türkiye's  Mediterranean coastline between Fethiye and Antalya is full of beautiful places for sun, sea and sand vacations , but it’s also dappled with evidence of the ancient civilizations that once populated the area. The seaside ruins of Patara (which boasts one of Türkiye's best beaches too) and Phaselis are particularly picturesque, and the rock tombs of Myra are especially impressive. The Antalya Museum offers good insights into the region’s history. Explore by sea on a gület cruise, on foot along the Lycian Way hiking path or by driving the scenic (but winding!) coastal roads.

4. Eastern Black Sea and Kaçkar Mountains

Best for rural traditions

The rough, cold waters of the Black Sea aren’t particularly inviting, but turn your gaze inland, where lush green valleys spill down to the coast from high peaks, to see the region’s appeal. The lower elevations are home to most of Türkiye's tea and hazelnut production, while the high plateaus ( yaylalar ) like Pokut , that were once used as summer pastures for livestock, are becoming popular with tourists seeking out scenic views and a taste of traditional Black Sea culture and cuisine. Further above, the Kaçkar Mountains offer spectacular trekking in summer for experienced hikers.

Planning tip:  Trabzon, home to the cliff-side Sumela Monastery , is the area’s main hub for air travel.

5. Southeastern Anatolia

Best for culture and food

The often-overlooked southeastern Anatolia region is one of Türkiye's cultural – and culinary – stars. The cities of Gaziantep and Antakya (Hatay) are famed for their food, and both also boast museums with incredible collections of Roman mosaics. Mardin ’s picturesque, well-preserved old town also makes a great base for exploring the monasteries and Roman ruins in the surrounding area. The world’s oldest religious site, Göbeklitepe , lies just outside of Şanlıurfa, which has its own fine archaeology museum and bazaar .

6. Datça and Bozburun peninsulas

Best for relaxation

Chilling out and getting back to nature is the order of the day on the remote  Datça and Bozburun peninsulas in the south Aegean. In place of the boisterous nightlife of nearby Bodrum and Marmaris, you’ll find miles of dramatic rocky coastline, scenic rural villages, and small, quiet beach resorts and seaside towns.

Planning tip:  The Carian Trail long-distance hiking path encircles both peninsulas. Check before setting out as some sections of the route were inaccessible following wildfire damage in the summer of 2021.

7. Türkiye's far east

Best for rugged beauty

The vast landscapes of Türkiye's far east have a remote ruggedness unmatched elsewhere in the country. Perhaps best known to travelers as the terminus of the Doğu Ekpresi (Eastern Express) , a popular and scenic overnight train trip from Ankara , the border city of Kars retains striking architecture from its years as a Russian outpost in the 1800s. Nearby are the extensive and evocative UNESCO-listed ruins of Ani , an ancient Armenian capital.

A three-hour drive south will take you to the remote İshak Paşa Palace , passing by the fabled Mt Ararat (Ağrı Dağı) en route. Continue on to Van , where you can fuel up on one of the city’s famously elaborate breakfast spreads before visiting the fine museum in town and taking a day excursion to Akdamar Kilisesi , a masterfully decorated Armenian church and monastery complex on a small island in Lake Van.

8. Gallipoli and the North Aegean

Best for WWI history and ancient Troy

Cemeteries devoted to the tens of thousands of soldiers who died in bloody battles on the Gallipoli Peninsula during WWI are scattered around bucolic rolling hills, all the more poignant amidst such serenely beautiful landscapes.

The area is also the gateway to Türkiye's North Aegean coast, a more relaxed alternative to the Mediterranean where you can take a leisurely tour of pleasant seaside towns like Ayvalık and Foça, the island wineries of Bozcaada, the ancient city of Troy (with its standout museum ) and the spectacularly sited hilltop acropolis of Bergama .

9. Safranbolu

Best for Ottoman atmosphere

Named for the saffron that was grown and traded here for centuries, Safranbolu is today popular with visitors who come to soak in its old Ottoman atmosphere. Many of the town’s historic wood-framed mansions have been restored and converted into picture-perfect boutique hotels, cafes and restaurants.

Planning tip:  If it all starts to seem a little too cutesy, the canyons, waterfalls and woods of the nearby Yenice Forest are a natural tonic.

10. Pamukkale

Best for its ancient spa

The bright-white terraces of Pamukkale are surely one of the most photographed sites in Türkiye, incongruously gleaming above the rural town like freshly fallen snow. The warm mineral water that flows through them was the basis for the ancient spa city of Hierapolis , whose extensive remains sprawl out along the hilltop next to the famous travertines.

Planning tip:  Pamukkale also makes a good base for visiting other nearby ancient sites like Laodicea , Tripolis and – most notably – the gorgeous ruins of Afrodisias with its impressive collection of Roman marble sculptures.

This article was first published September 2021 and updated December 2023

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My Free Range Family

Destinations , Turkey · Last Updated: November 28, 2023

Take a Road Trip Through Turkey with our Complete Guide!

If you’re thinking of taking a road trip in Turkey and have a month up your sleeve, then we have the BEST itinerary for you.   We just spent a month driving all over Turkey ourselves and can tell you where to go, what it will cost you, what it’s like driving in Turkey and a whole lot more! This post covers all the major bucket list destinations like Cappadocia and Pamukkale , and also some of those hidden gems that are not to be missed.

Turkey is one of those places that has it ALL! From the vibrant city of Istanbul, full of charm and history, to the vast landscapes. Ranging from the snow covered mountains in the winter to the Mediterranean beaches in the summer and the dry plains and lakes in between.

A road trip through Turkey also means you’ll find quiet little fishing villages on both the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. Not to mention the numerous ancient cities and historical sites begging to be explored.

What you’ll love most about this post we have put together, is the alternative road trip options helping you discover the Turkey you want to uncover. With this post you’ll have the flexibility to tailor it, to suit your own needs, depending on what you want to see, how long you have and your budget.

🚗 So if it’s big cities, beaches, a little hiking, history, food and culture, then a road trip through Turkey will see you right!

Table of Contents

A Few Facts on Turkey

* This post may contain affiliate links that may earn me a small commission should you decide to click through and make a valid purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thanks for your support!

The hubster is a facts man and put together this list of a few you might find interesting.  Or you might not.  Just move on to the road trip stuff if facts don’t float your boat.

• Capital city – Ankara
• Largest city – Istanbul
• Currency – Turkish Lira
• Language – Turkish.  We found that around a third of the people we met spoke English fairly fluently and a third spoke enough English to communicate the basics. The remaining third we relied on Google Translate to help with conversation.
• Population – 85,500,000
• Geography – Turkey covers an area of 783,562 square kilometres or 302,535 square miles. Its surrounded on 3 sides by sea (Black sea, Mediterranean and Aegean Seas) and shares its borders with 8 countries. Turkey is located on both the European and Asian continents, with Istanbul located on both.
• Which side of the road – Driving in Turkey is on the right side of the road.
• FYI – Although known for its coffee, locals drink more tea.

Getting Around in Turkey

Turkey is an extremely easy country to get around in.  It offers travellers all modes of transport options, to suit all travel types, needs and budget. 

From domestic flights, high speed trains, intercity buses, ferries, group and private tours, along with all public transport within the major cities. We also saw several people using the old fashion thumb method (hitch hiking) and others were walking some of the many long distant hiking trails.

Flying 

Turkey has around 50 cities that have active domestic airports, with 35 of these being international. So, flying into and getting around Turkey by plane is very easy. And with Turkish Airways and smaller operators such as AnadoluJet and SunExpress , you are well covered. 

Another really popular mode of domestic travel throughout Turkey is the bus system.  These come highly recommended in the travelling community we correspond with, for practicality, cost and flexibility. 

As Turkey is so large with a lot of land to cover between major destinations, many companies offer longhaul trips including overnight buses. These buses, better described as coaches, are very comfortable and have regular meal and bathroom stops. 

The bonus of travelling overnight is that you can maximize your day at the place you are at, sleep over night and wake up the following day ready to explore. Adding in the other bonus of saving a night’s accommodation… WIN, WIN! 

As we were traveling as a family of four, for only a month, with a rather busy itinerary, we decided that this would suit us best. A rental car provided us the flexibility we needed and were looking for and space for the kids to keep themselves occupied on some of the longer drives.  We also found rental cars very reasonably priced. 

Petrol at the time of our visit to Turkey was around 1.35 USD per litre or 5.125 USD per gallon. We had a brand new diesel Fiat Egea, that cost around 65 USD to fill from empty. And we got between 900 to 1000 kilometres per tank. 

We track our travels on a budget tracking app, so for a full month we spent an overall of $850 USD on car rental, full insurance, road tolls and petrol.  Keeping in mind this was the budget option car, manual and had a 500km maximum drive limit per day. This drive capacity was more than enough for a Turkey road trip!

We used Qeeq Car Rentals to source the best deal for our road trip in Turkey. The overall rental cost started from around 350 USD for the month.

What’s it Like Driving in Turkey

We found driving in Turkey relatively easy and would compare it to most other European countries. There are always those little issues that arise with driving in any new place, which you come to expect anywhere in the world. However, we found the roads really easy to drive and navigate.

Navigating on a Road Trip in Turkey

We recommend Google maps for getting around. We purchased a sim from Vodafone at the airport, which included 20GB for 30 days and cost 28 USD.  You can purchase sim cards outside the airport much cheaper than this, providing you can wait.  

We needed it for navigation, so decided to bite the bullet and splash out. The good thing about having the big data package was that it lasted the entire trip. And Vodafone was the best provider for us, as they offer free Whatsapp and Instagram with their packages.

Roads, Speed Limits and Toll Gates in Turkey

As with most countries, Turkey has three main road systems which include, express ways, highways and country lanes:

Express ways –

Express ways have multiple lanes with a speed limit of 120km/h. They are toll roads and you will need an HSG tag to use them, if needed these can be purchased at petrol stations, post offices and banks. These can then be used as a prepay system or you can pay cash as you leave the Express way. 

For the prepay system you will need to use the lanes marked with the HSG automatic gates. Then you simply slow down to 30km/h when passing through so that the tag can be logged. The cash gates also clearly labeled.

If you have a rental car then these will most likely already be registered with HSG.  Then on return of the vehicle the logged tolls are tallied and paid for directly with the rental agency. In our case, after a month long road trip in Turkey our final road toll bill came to 50 USD – not too bad really!

Highways & open roads –

Highways are either duel carriage ways, or over mountainous areas may be three lanes. In which case vehicles travelling uphill have the priority on the central passing lane. The speed limit on the highway is 90km/h. 

Inner-city, country lanes and urban roads –

These are single lanes with a speed limit of 50km/h. 

We drove on all three at various points. However as with all good road trips and navigation apps you are given alternative routes.

On several occasions we did chose the alternative routes.  And I’ll tell you why!

Often these routes took a little longer, they were a little older and a little windier.  But there was something more picturesque about them, especially the coast roads. Ultimately, the majority of the roads we drove were fine!

however if steep, windy, single lanes, with a high volume of large trucks are not for you, then you may wish to find an alternative route between Gazipaşa and Mersin (Day 18 on our itinerary). 

Other Things to Note on Driving in Turkey

Below we have put together a few more key things you may have wondered about. However, if you want to get straight into planning your Turkey road trip itinerary, then skip to the next section.

Driver’s License Requirements

We travel on both New Zealand and United Arab Emirates drivers’ licenses.  With these, we didn’t require an international license to drive in Turkey, as we were not staying longer than six months. 

We would suggest you do your homework, follow this link for more information. 

To rent a car you need to be 21 or over and have held your full license for more than one year. But as always, we recommend you double check with the agency, as some may require two years.

Also, we have heard of issues with people travelling on newly issued licenses whereby the issue date didn’t meet the one year requirement. So, if you have recently been issued an updated license, we would suggest that you pack your old license to save any possible difficulties.

Police Checkpoints and Speed Cameras

There are various police checkpoints throughout Turkey, both semi-permanent and pop up. You will need to slow down as you approach, make eye contact with the officers manning these, wherein they will either ask you to stop or wave you on through. 

We passed through several checkpoints but were never asked to stop. From our understanding these are a general license and identification request checkpoint. With all the research we did, we never found anyone make any negative comments on these police stops. All said that it was a standard police stop and providing you had a current license you were moved along quickly.  

You will also find a lot of life size police car cutouts along most major roads – some even having working lights. These are set up to warn you of speed cameras operating in the area. They were rather comical, but also somewhat effective.

Speed cameras – be aware that they are there. They are often on these structures over the road (pictured above).

Parking in Cities and Towns

Parking… it all depends on where you are! Most major tourist attractions do have parking areas which carry and additional cost of 5 TL up to 20 TL. 

In several of the bigger cities we used multiple day Otoparks. It is a relatively simple process, where you leave the car key with the attendant and they shift the car as and when they need to.  Often these are small spaces and manoeuvring was their main game. And honestly, we were happy to leave it to them! But in any case, the system seemed to work.

The other was metered parking wherein an assistant would leave a tag on your car with the time it was placed. Basically, whenever they happened to walk past from our understanding. Then when leaving you need to find the closest attendant, someone in a high-vis vest to pay your dues.

We are still not 100% sure on how this system works, we did pay several at around 10 TL each. However we are sure that one or two of these went unpaid with no fines issued on the return of the rental.

When in the larger cities such as Istanbul or Izmir, we recommend you make the most of the public transport system. This is a lot easier than dealing with parking. Also it’s cheap and saves you a lot of hassle and probably stress too.

Navigation Apps

For drive times and routes, we predominantly used Google maps. However, we did have access to Apple Maps and the Waze App which we used on a couple of occasions. This was mainly to double check the times and routes provided.

We found that 95% of the time these were great, on one or two occasions some of the detours were a little dodgy but nothing to really worry about. As for the drive times, these two were fairly consistent across all three apps, but also reasonably conservative. As we found that by keeping within the required speed limits, we managed to shave an average of 5-10 minutes per driving hour off the durations shown. 

Drinking and Driving

Turkey has a zero blood alcohol limit.

The Best Time to Visit Turkey

This is very much dependent on you and what you want to see and do. Turkey typically has four seasons and all the activities that go with these. We visited over April and May and by doing so were able to make the most of the nice weather, without the high summer temperatures and northern hemisphere summer crowds. 

But as a general rule of thumb dates are as follows-

• Best times to visit are April to May and September to October as the weather is predominantly pleasant and it’s not peak tourist season, also a great time of the year if you are planning on hitting some of the hiking trails. 
• June to August is summer so temperatures can be high, so too the tourist numbers. 
• Winter is November to March, with the ski season ranging from December through to March depending on the snow of course.

Our Recommended One Month Itinerary 

Please note that the drive times given below are indicative and based on our experience, the time of day and traffic at the time.

We recommend flying into Istanbul, which has two international airports.  The newer, bigger and most common is Istanbul airport (IST) on the European side of the city. And the smaller is Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side, which is the one we flew into. 

From the airport grab your rental car and head straight out to Çanakkale. The thought being to see Istanbul at the end of the trip, with the drive from either airport being rather easy and hopefully stress free for your first day.

Day 2 – 4 Çanakkale 

Çanakkale (pronounced  chah-nah-kah-lay ) is located at the Southern end of the Dardanelles straight.  It is on the Asian side and at the narrowest point. 

Because of its location Çanakkale has long held a major military importance throughout Turkey’s history, so as you can imagine a lot of what can be seen is based around this. It also makes it an ideal place to base yourself for a couple of days to explore the town and surrounding areas.

Things to do –

• Spend a day wondering around the town, visit the Cimenlik Castle and the military museum. 
• Take a day trip out to the ancient city of Troy and the museum.
• Take the car ferry from Çanakkale to Kilitbahir to visit the fortress. 
• Spend a day or two visiting the various ANZAC Commemorative sites and cemeteries from WWI on the Gallipoli peninsula.  

See our dedicated post on how to visit Gallipoli and ANZAC Cove.

Day 5 – Drive from Çanakkale to Izmir (approx 5 hours) 

This is probably a good time to make a quick mention of where to eat when on a road trip in Turkey. One of our favourite food stops while road tripping were the many roadside gözleme restaurants. They were usually very casual eateries and in most cases cooked outside over an open fire. Use Google Translate and order yourself a potato, spinach and cheese (peynir) gözleme for lunch!

Yum, it makes my tummy rumble just thinking of them now.

Days 6 – 8 Izmir

Izmir is Turkey’s 3 rd  largest city located on the Aegean cost and one of the oldest cities on the Aegean Sea. It is known as being one of Turkey’s most liberal cities, therefore it boasts everything you would expect and more.  From old Bazaars and ancient sites, to funky cafés and bars where you can turn an afternoon out, to an all day and evening event. All the while, Izmir somehow maintains a laidback, take five, kind of feel.   If you want our recommendation on a budget place to stay, look no further than Shanti Home Hostel in the heart of it all!

Things to do – 

• Take the first day exploring Izmir, with a stroll along the water front, stop by Konak Square, visit Kemeralti Bazaar and its surrounding area then head to Alsancak in the late afternoon to visit the many little hip cafés, restaurants and bars.
• Buy simit from the Zeynel Ergin Gevrek Fırını bakery which is well-known among locals.  This place has been producing simit for years.
• If you’re looking for a little more history then fit in a visit to the Agora Open Air Museum.
• A must is a day trip out to the Ancient City of Ephesus (pronounced  Efes ) which is a one hour drive from Izmir.

Day 9 – Drive from Izmir to Pamukkale (approx 3.5 hours)

Spend either the morning in Izmir and head to Pamukkale in the afternoon or get away early and be in Pamukkale by lunch with time to get acquainted with your new stop.

Day 10 – Pamukkale

Pamukkale in Turkish translates to Cotton Castle. The town sits at the base of the world famous travertine terraces, which are connected to the ancient Roman city of Hierapolis.

Things to do – 

• Visit the white terraces early in the morning and take a dip if you’re up to it.
• Grab tickets for the Cleopatra thermal pools and spend a couple of hours soaking.
• Wander the amphitheatre and sites of Hierapolis. 
• Another place well worth seeing if you have time, is Kaklik Cave. It’s around a 50 minute drive from Pamukkale. 

If you are interested in finding out more about visiting the white terraces of Pamukkale, then check our post here .

Day 11 – Drive from Pamukkale to Kaş via Lake Salda (approx 4 hours)

If you have a nice clear day a 40 minute detour to Lake Salda is worth a stop. Time it right and it’s the prefect stop for a lunch break, where you can walk the pure white sand and dip your toes in the turquoise water. 

Day 12 – 17 Kaş

Kaş is a picture perfect little town on the Mediterranean. The town is naturally split in two by the Cukurbag Peninsula, with the main part of town on the eastern bay. 

Due to the town’s natural geography, with its steep rise out of the Mediterranean and high cliffs behind, it seems to have saved the town from the large five star developments seen on other parts of the coast. The main accommodation choice tends to be Airbnb’s and cute little boutique hotels. 

The central hub of town is at the open port, from here you can book your various boat trips or water taxis. This leads out to a large communal square, from which your quintessential cobbled streets run off in various directions.  These are great for exploring on foot and are lined with cafés, restaurants, ice cream stops and small boutique shops.

• Take a day trip to Fethiye and see the Amyntas Rock Tombs.
• Visit Butterfly Valley which can only be accessed by boat from Fethiye, or a rather intensive hike.
• Walk through Saklıkent Canyon in Saklıkent National Park.
• Take a day trip to Kastellorizo Island in Greece.
• Visit Kekova Island and the Sunken City.
• Or just relax on one of the many beaches.

If you are interested in finding out more about Kas, then check out our post here.

Day 18 – 19 – Begin the two day drive to Goreme, Cappadocia

The drive to Goreme, Cappadocia is around 11 – 12 hours. Therefore, it’s up to you if you want to push through and do it in a single drive or have an overnight stop in between. 

If you wish to stop, we recommend Gazipaşa as a perfect ½ way point. The drive is along the coast with some really beautiful and diverse sections. Also, Gazipaşa is an amazing section of coast and we would highly recommend that if you have time to check out Gazipaşa Delikdeniz Kral Koyu if you do so. 

For accommodation have a look at Zeytinada Pansiyon ve Gözleme . We stayed the one night in a private dorm room and the family were very friendly and the breakfast of Gözleme was amazing!

Day 20 – 24 Goreme, Cappadocia 

For those of you who have not checked out the top things to do in Turkey or seen on the infamous Instagram photos of hot air balloons, then let me help you out. Cappadocia is an area that is world famous for its natural fairy chimneys and is more often than not pictured with numerous hot air balloons floating past. 

However, the area is so much more! If you love the great outdoors, beautiful natural and historical scenery, hiking, or you have a general urge to explore stunning valleys on foot then this is a must visit. 

The total area of Cappadocia is 9,883.81 hectares and encompasses numerous natural valleys, with spectacular hikes, most having cave houses and churches for you to explore. There are also over 200 underground cities of which up to 35 of these are open (or parts of) to the public. 

There are several open air museums, which are located in areas which offer you a great overview of what makes Cappadocia so unique.  All this and we still haven’t mentioned the other attractions available such as the hot air balloons, the horse trekking, pottery making and so on.

🎈 We loved Cappadocia so much that we put together this post on everything you need to know before you visit.

Day 25 – Drive from Cappadocia to Istanbul (approx 7.5 hours)

There was nothing really special about this drive. We just got on and did it, but we definitely recommend dropping your rental car off before you get to the city. This way you won’t be driving in Istanbul which could be a little stressful. We dropped our car off at the airport and caught a bus to our accomodation in Istanbul.

We loved the Peninsula Hotel for value for money and location. Check it out it might be right for you too.

Day 26 – 30 Istanbul

Istanbul is our final destination and for good reason, known as the city that spans across two continents (Europe and Asia) this is a must see and one of our all-time favourite cities. 

Things to do –

• Explore the old city – home to the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar, Basilica Cistern (if open or one of the other cisterns) Topkapi Palace and more.
• Outside the old city you have numerous harbour cruises which offer you a chance to see both sides of the city from the Bosporus and around the golden horn. 
• Walk up Istiklal Street to Taksim Square, visit Galata tower and make the most of the amazing views it offers. 
• Try a hammam or visit one of the many cafés for a Turkish coffee, tea, baklava or turkish delight.  

So many amazing choices, you just have to decide on what you can fit in this time and what to save for your next visit.

Read our dedicated post on Istanbul here for where to stay and exactly what to see and do .

Alternative Route

If you’re more interested in ancient history and culture than exploring the Mediterranean part of this suggested itinerary, you may want to adjust the above.  

Instead visit Mount Nemrut and the cities of Sunliurfa and Mardin, all of which are only a couple of hours from each other, along the south eastern border. These places include the statues of King Antiochus at the summit of Mount Nemrut, the ancient city of Göbekli Tepe and numerous mosques and picture perfect small towns.

If this sounds a little more like you, then drive from Pamukkale to Konya. This is home to the Dervish dancers. And then on to Adana before driving on to Sanliurfa.

In total it’s about a 13 hour drive so its up to you how you want to split it. We would recommend you stay in Sanliurfa for three days and Mardin for two days. Then on your return back to Cappadocia in the west, stay one day in Mount Nemrut. This leaves three days in Cappadocia and four in Istanbul.

Given that budget is an extremely broad subject, with many variables I will share an overview of  our  costs and expenses at the end of a month road trip in Turkey. Please note that we are a family of four currently traveling full-time, so try where possible to stick to a very stringent budget. 

Accommodation is at times booked the day of, or the day before so as to give us flexibility. 

We generally stay in Airbnb’s and self-cater, and we look for rooms to accommodate the four of us for under $35 USD per night. 

We track all our spending on an app to ensure that we stay within budget.  So below is an exact breakdown of what our family of four spent on a month travelling around Turkey.

• Insurance – We spend $150 USD per month for our family of four and recommend Safetywings for travel and medical cover.
• Car Rental – $350 USD + $50 USD – one month car rental and full insurance with Qeeq .
• Gas/Petrol – $330 USD.
• Accommodation – $800 USD.
• Attractions and sightseeing – $170 USD for a family of four.

One Month Road Trip in Turkey – At a Glance

Final thoughts + map of turkey road trip.

Turkey is such an amazing country to take a good old fashion road trip. The roads are great to drive, navigating is as easy as any other country, the scenery is so diverse. And so too are the sights and sounds. 

As mentioned throughout this blog, Turkey has it all, from ancient cities and ruins, to the beautiful landscapes, people, culture and food. All the while being a relatively cheap place to travel and at the same time offering high end options if that’s what you’re looking for. 

The only difficultly to road tripping Turkey is deciding when to go, how long you can afford to take and therefore what to see.  However, as with most travellers we have met, Turkey is definitely one of those countries that many people return to. 

Link through to our other posts on how to travel Turkey and get the best from your visit.

• 17 Magical Places to Visit in Cappadocia
• How to Visit Anzac Cove & the Gallipoli Peninsula
• 4 Days in Istanbul
• 16 Awesome Things to do in Kaş
• Planning a Visit to the White Terraces of Pamukkale

We now travel full-time and have plenty more itineraries and guides to share on all the destinations we visit. Sign up to follow our journey! (And don’t worry we won’t spam you with unnecessary emails.)

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Getting Around Turkey: Transportation Tips

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

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For a land mass as big as Turkey — stretching from the tip of Greece to Syria, from Bulgaria to Iran, and Iraq to Georgia and Armenia — the Turkish populace never seems to be without a means of transportation.

Indeed, one of the best things about Turkey for a traveler is its list of transport options, from buses and bikes to trains, rental cars and more luxurious seaplanes. Here’s what you need to know about getting around Turkey.

Flying to and Around Turkey

With a host of airlines to fit your budget and schedule, Turkey is easy to navigate by plane. Even Turks, who traditionally travel by road, are now flying more. Why? Prices have dropped, and it’s just plain faster. A flight from Izmir to Istanbul takes just one hour, compared to a bus ride that can take up to 10 hours.

The major carrier is Turkish Airlines, which provides air travel not only within Turkey but out of the country as well. For short-haul routes within Turkey, Pegasus Airlines and Atlasjet offer inexpensive alternatives.

All three carriers service the main airports within Turkey — mainly Istanbul Atakurk International, Izmir’s Adnan Menderes and the smaller but still popular Milas-Bodrum, Dalaman and Antalya airports. A whole slew of airlines from Europe and North America fly into at least one of the above, typically Istanbul.

You’ll find that airlines are clean, tidy and on time, while the mass internal investment on the ground will offer you a fantastic airport experience akin to the best in Europe or the Middle East.

Renting a Car

“Renting a car in Turkey? You must be crazy!” That’s the most typical response from those who have already tried it.

If you have nerves of steel, a bottomless pit of patience and a penchant for honking the horn, then driving in Turkey will be an enjoyable experience. If you opt for this adventure, keep in mind that road signs are often ignored by other drivers, and the rare use of a turn signal could mean the complete opposite of what you think it does. Throw away the Highway Code and sample Turkey’s driving, raw and rarely surpassed.

Renting a car is relatively easy as long as you have a means of ID, such as your passport and driver’s license. Most travelers from Europe and North America can use their own country’s driver’s license rather than an international driving permit, but check with your rental car company ahead of time to be sure.

Research a reliable agency — such as Europcar, Avis and Hertz — before you head out, and check out their insurance for the car and the requirements for day-to-day usage and payment for the vehicle. Most vehicles will be from the European or Japanese car-making sectors, so they should be of a good standard.

Keep in mind that gas in Turkey is now the world’s most expensive and that fines from the police, on the spot, can be quite heavy. Try to get a car that has a GPS, particularly for cities, as you could end up getting lost. Turkey is also noted for having large populations moving on specific days. For example, Friday is the main prayer day for Muslims, so many will be traveling to mosques. Above all, drive carefully.

In Turkey, you legally drive on the right. Driving on the motorways and in cities, you’ll find that the roads are good, but those in smaller towns can be slightly tricky. If you do drive on the motorways, bear in mind that there are automated tolls to pay, but these are normally paid through a microchip on the windshield. Check the details with your rental provider.

Along the way, you may also be confounded by the lack of parking and distances between places. So plan ahead, expect the unexpected and always ask questions.

Trains and Trams

Train travel has been a relatively unknown quantity for most travelers in Turkey and even for the average local resident. However, the networks serving cities such as Izmir, Istanbul and Ankara are about to undergo a massive overhaul.

High-speed train line projects, such as Ankara-Sivas, Ankara-Bursa and Ankara-Izmir, are expected to be completed by 2023. As upgrades — enhancements to trains and general refurbishment of the infrastructure — are made, rail travel is starting to come back into vogue in Turkey. There’s an array of seating options at generally affordable cost.

While inner and eastern Turkey are currently well served, there are no trains on the western and southern coastlines at all.

If you’re staying in Istanbul, one of the best and safest ways to get around town it to use the tram that runs from the international airport right through the main central parts of the tourist center and out to the suburbs. It’s cheap and easy to use, and very rarely will you get lost on it.

Coaches and Dolmus (Mini-Buses)

The most popular mode of transport is a bus or coach for long-haul trips of more than four hours across the country, while smaller road trips are invariably served by Dolmus (small mini-buses).

Most Turkish residents opt for a coach if they’re on a budget and traveling to see family off the beaten track (where other modes of transportation aren’t available). What will surprise you is that the buses are very luxurious, of European standard, and the pricing for a seat is shockingly affordable.

Coach trips normally last more than two hours, and you’ll be served with a cake or sandwich and a bottle of water for light refreshment at no extra cost. Some of the bus companies now provide wireless Internet, and the seats are extremely comfortable to boot. There are stops to use the toilet and stretch your legs.

The main coach providers are Pamukkale, Metro, Kamil Koc and Varan, and booking seats can be done via the Internet, in person at their branch office or by simply turning up and paying.

For short hauls across cities and coastal towns, you’ll face the sweatier version — riding a dolmus . “Dolmus” in English means “stuffed,” so stuffed to the gunwales it will be with tourists, locals and maybe an odd chicken or duck going to market.

Dolmus travel is the way to get from point A to point B locally. Signs of destinations are clearly marked on the fronts of the buses, and payments, somewhere in the order of about 2 Turish lira, will get you several kilometers.

There is usually a piece of paper at the front of the bus informing you of the costs and destinations. Otherwise, ask the driver, and he or she will happily point you in the right direction. If you’re staying at a hotel, it might be best to get some business cards from the front desk so you can show the address to the driver.

Bus drivers will often honk their horns to rally trade and remind you that they are there.

For a thrill — or for taking your life into your own hands — why not try two-wheeled travel? Scooters and motorbikes are the favorites for young and adventurous travelers, and they are relatively inexpensive and easy to rent. A popular rental is the electric scooter. It’s affordable to use and is becoming one of the main forms of transport for Turks as fuel costs continue to reach new highs.

Insist on wearing a helmet, and keep within the speed limits, as the traffic police might decide you’re worth stopping for a fine for a breach some rule or other. Travel carefully; car drivers seem inclined not to see bikers until it’s too late.

This type of travel is usually constrained to the beach resorts in Turkey. Biking through city centers is only for those comfortable with the rigors of city living.

Boats and Ferries

Ferries are another popular mode of transportation, particularly in and around Istanbul, over the Bosporus, in and around Izmir, and from the Turkish holiday centers of Bodrum and Marmaris to the Greek islands. You’ll need to research the costs and frequency of services, as they’re subject to change. This type of travel, again, is affordable on the main routes serviced in Istanbul, while day trips to the Greek Islands are about 35 euros.

Often overlooked, bicycles are one of the best ways to see Turkey at your own pace. You can hire these from local tour operators and, on a day’s rental, pop to the local sites and beaches. It’s also an enjoyable way to stay fit while you travel. To arrange a bike rental, consult the front desk at your hotel, a guidebook or the local tourist office.

A relative newcomer to the transport sector is the seaplane. Privately operated, the seaplane flies travelers from Istanbul to coastal areas. Seabird Airlines is the only registered company that operates this service, and prices are quite hefty compared to normal bus and train travel. However, it is achieving 85 per cent capacity in flights and intends to expand its service from Istanbul to Ankara. If you fancy a different transport option and a one-off experience with a cool view, then why not take a seaplane?

You May Also Like

• Istanbul Travel Guide
• Where to Stay in Turkey: Accommodation Tips

–written by Andy Probert

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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How To Travel Within Turkey: Your Guide to Transportation & Local Assistance

• 22 June 2023

First things first welcome to Turkey, a land of rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes! Many tourists find it difficult to find information on how to travel within Turkey . As a local travel blogger , I am delighted to share with you the best ways to travel within Turkey , ensuring you have a smooth and enjoyable journey. From bustling cities to remote villages, Turkey offers a variety of transportation options to suit every traveler’s needs.

What will you find here? In this article, I will provide information mostly related to travel between cities in Turkey and share some web pages that locals genuinely use to book domestic buses or flights. I will also provide information about transportation options between major tourist cities . You will also find information about renting a car and a van, in addition to public transportation. Furthermore, there will be some information about traveling within big cities .

Let’s dive into the wonderful world of transportation in Turkey and discover the best ways to travel within Turkey to explore this enchanting country.

What are the best ways to travel within Turkey ?

1. traveling in the city: embrace the vibrant public transport network.

When it comes to traveling within Turkish cities, you’ll find a range of transportation options at your disposal. Most cities have buses and dolmuş (let’s say they are basically shared taxis) that serve as affordable and convenient means of getting around. Additionally, larger cities boast tramways, metro, and other modes of public transport, each with its own unique charm.

It’s important to note that there is no universal Turkey public transport card , as each city operates on a different system. However, worry not, as I’ll guide you through the local transportation details for major cities below. Please note that for big cities, you can also use Google Maps to find transportation options.

Recommend: I recommend you buy travel cards since these transportation cards offer the advantage of hassle-free travel as they eliminate the need to purchase individual tickets for each journey. Additionally, they often provide discounted fares compared to cash payments and one-time tickets. Tourists can easily obtain and use these cards during their stay in Istanbul, Ankara, İzmir, and Antalya, ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience throughout the cities. Also, remember that travel cards may not be accepted on dolmuş, taxis, or other small regional transportation.

This might be interesting for you: Best Things To Do In Turkey | 20 Tips From a Local

– Istanbul transportation map and Istanbul travel card

Istanbul has a variety of transportation options for tourists. The city has an extensive public transportation network that includes buses, metro lines, tramways, ferries, and funiculars . In Istanbul, there is also the ‘ Marmaray ,’ an underground tunnel that connects Europe and Asia , providing transportation between different sides of the city. It is one of the longest lines in Istanbul. Istanbul also has a private minibus system called “ dolmuş ” that operates on specific routes.

Tourists can find transportation maps and information in Istanbul from several sources. One of the best resources is the website and mobile app of the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality’s transportation authority, called “ İETT . ” (English is available) They provide detailed maps, timetables, and route information for all modes of public transportation in the city. On İETT, you can also search for a route or for a station. Plus, it has “How can I go” and “Where is my bus?” sections that make traveling a lot easier for a tourist. Another option is to visit tourist information centers, located in popular areas, where you can find maps and receive assistance from staff members.

In Istanbul, the transportation card is called the “ Istanbulkart .” It can be purchased and topped up at various kiosks, ticket vending machines, or authorized retailers throughout the city. The Istanbulkart offers discounted fares compared to single-ticket purchases and can be used on buses, metro lines, tramways, ferries, and funiculars. The card can also be shared among multiple passengers , making it a convenient option for group travel.

Additionally, there are taxis available throughout the city. In Turkey, Uber is not available. However, for safer and more cost-effective taxi travels, you can use the Bitaksi app. Simply download the app and utilize it for your taxi needs across various cities in Turkey. Bitaksi is a convenient and reliable option for taxi services. Additionally, in Istanbul, there is another dedicated app called iTaksi that you can use specifically for taxi rides within the city.

– Ankara transportation map and Ankara travel card

In Ankara, the capital of Turkey, tourists can also access various transportation options. The city has a public transportation system that includes buses, a metro, and a suburban railway system called “Ankaray.” There are also taxis available throughout the city. For transportation maps and information, visitors can refer to the website and mobile app of the Ankara Metropolitan Municipality’s transportation authority, known as “ EGO .” (English is available)

In Ankara, the transportation card is known as the “ Ankarakart .” It can be obtained and loaded with credit at designated kiosks or vending machines located at metro stations or authorized sales points. The Ankarakart is valid for use on buses, metro lines, and the Ankaray suburban railway system.

– Izmir transportation map and Izmir travel card

In İzmir, a coastal city in western Turkey, tourists can utilize public transportation options such as buses, metro, tramways, and ferries. The transportation authority in İzmir is called “ İzmir Metro A.Ş . ,” and their website and mobile app provide maps, timetables, and other information. (Unfortunately, I couldn’t find an English option on the web page)

In İzmir, the transportation card is called the “ İzmirim Kart. ” It can be purchased and recharged at various sales points throughout the city, including kiosks, authorized retailers, and İzmir Metro A.Ş. service centers. The İzmirim Kart is accepted on buses, metro lines, tramways, and ferries.

– Antalya transportation map and Antalya travel card

In Antalya, a popular tourist destination on the southern coast of Turkey, visitors can find transportation options such as buses, trams, and taxis. The Antalya Metropolitan Municipality’s transportation authority, “ Antalya Ulaşım A.Ş. ,” offers a website and mobile app with transportation maps and details.

In Antalya, the transportation card is known as the “Antalyakart.” It can be obtained and loaded with credit at designated sales points, including kiosks and authorized retailers. The Antalyakart can be used on buses and tramways within the city. (Unfortunately, I couldn’t find an English option on the web page)

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS IN TURKEY

2. flying: take to the skies and soar across turke y.

For longer distances or reaching destinations with airports, the best ways to travel within Turkey is flying for sure. Flying within Turkey is an excellent option if you are trying to save time too. The country is served by several low-cost airlines that offer affordable domestic flights . With convenient connections to various cities, you can easily reach popular tourist destinations like Istanbul, Antalya, Izmir, and Cappadocia. It’s worth mentioning that not all destinations have airports, but fear not, as I’ll provide alternative transportation options for such places.

Flying within Turkey is a convenient and popular mode of transportation for both domestic and international tourists. Here is some information about flying within Turkey:

Popular Flight Destinations in Turkey

Istanbul : As the country’s major transportation hub, Istanbul has two international airports, Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), serving numerous domestic and international flights.

Ankara : The capital city of Turkey, Ankara, has Esenboğa International Airport (ESB), which offers domestic and limited international flights.

Antalya : Known for its stunning coastline, Antalya is a popular destination with Antalya Airport (AYT) serving both domestic and international flights.

Izmir : Located on the Aegean coast, Izmir is another major tourist destination. Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB) in Izmir offers both domestic and international flights.

Cappadocia : Famous for its unique landscapes, Cappadocia attracts tourists from around the world. The nearest airport is Kayseri Airport (ASR), which offers domestic and limited international flights.

Fethiye : To reach Fethiye by plane, you can fly to Dalaman Airport (DLM), which is the closest airport to Fethiye. It offers domestic and limited international flights. Dalaman Airport is located approximately 45 kilometers away from Fethiye.

Bodrum : To reach Bodrum by plane, you can fly to Milas-Bodrum Airport (BJV). It serves domestic and limited international flights. Milas-Bodrum Airport is the closest airport to Bodrum, located approximately 36 kilometers away.

This might be interesting for you: Things To Do In Cappadocia | Top 10 Attractions In Cappadocia

Popular Airlines in Turkey for Domestic Flights

Several airlines operate domestic flights within Turkey, including:

Turkish Airlines: The national flag carrier of Turkey, Turkish Airlines, offers extensive domestic flight connections to various cities in Turkey.

Pegasus Airlines: Pegasus Airlines is a low-cost carrier based in Turkey, providing affordable domestic flights in Turkey to several destinations.

SunExpress: SunExpress is a joint venture between Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa. It operates domestic flights to popular tourist destinations in Turkey.

AnadoluJet: AnadoluJet is a subsidiary of Turkish Airlines, specializing in domestic flights within Turkey.

Booking Flights within Turkey

To find tickets and book flights within Turkey , you can visit the following popular websites:

Turkish Airlines website: Turkish Airlines’ official website allows you to search and book domestic flights within Turkey.

Pegasus Airlines website: Pegasus Airlines’ official website provides an easy-to-use platform to search and book domestic flights. From this web page, you can check campaigns and find low-cost flight tickets within Turkey.

Skyscanner: Skyscanner is a popular flight search engine that compares prices from various airlines and online travel agencies, helping you find the best deals for domestic flights within Turkey.

Expedia: Expedia is a well-known online travel agency that offers flight booking services for domestic flights within Turkey.

Turna.com : Turna Travel is one of the well-known flight ticket providers operating in Turkey. You can visit turna.com to find domestic flights. In addition to booking flights, you can also utilize their services to book a bus, reserve a hotel, and rent a car. (This link is not an affiliate link. I simply wanted to provide it as a gesture of gratitude, as they assisted me and saved my trip on two occasions in 2016 during my biggest travel journey by bicycle.)

Other : You can also use Enuygun.com, Obilet.com, Hepsiburada Seyahat.

Remember to compare prices, check for any additional fees, and book your flights in advance to secure the best fares for your travel within Turkey.

TRAVELING BY TRAIN IN TURKEY

3. train: relish the scenic rail journeys.

If you prefer a more leisurely pace and want to enjoy the scenic beauty of Turkey, traveling by train is a delightful choice. The country’s rail network connects major cities and offers comfortable and picturesque journeys. From Istanbul to Konya, Ankara to Izmir, and beyond, trains provide a charming way to explore the diverse landscapes of Turkey. To make your train travel seamless, I recommend booking your tickets online in advance through the Turkish State Railways (TCDD) website.

In Turkey, there is an extensive railway network that connects various cities and offers an alternative mode of transportation for tourists. Here are some popular tourist cities and their railway connections:

Istanbul : Istanbul has train connections to several cities, including Ankara, Konya, and Edirne.

Ankara : As the capital city, Ankara is a major railway hub with connections to many destinations across Turkey, such as Istanbul, Izmir, and Kars.

Izmir : Izmir, located on the Aegean coast, has train connections to cities like Ankara, Denizli, and Bandirma.

Cappadocia : Although Cappadocia doesn’t have its own train station, you can reach the region by taking a train to Kayseri or Nevsehir, and then continue your journey by bus or taxi.

To buy train tickets in Turkey, there are a few options available:

Online train ticket in Turkey : The official website of Turkish State Railways (TCDD) allows you to purchase train tickets online. Visit their website and follow the instructions to book your tickets in advance. The website offers English language options. However please keep in mind that some parts of the webpage may not be fully translated . As a result, you may come across Turkish-language pop-up windows. Be prepared to use Google Translate if needed.

Train Stations: Train tickets can also be purchased directly at the train stations. It’s recommended to arrive early, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your tickets.

Travel Agencies: Local travel agencies in Turkey often offer assistance in booking train tickets. They can provide information on train schedules, and availability, and help you with the booking process.

It’s advisable to check the train schedules and availability in advance, especially for long-distance journeys or during peak travel periods, to ensure a smooth and convenient travel experience.

The popular train travels in Turkey

In addition to the regular train connections, there are some popular train travels in Turkey that offer unique experiences. Here are a few notable ones:

1 . Eastern Express: The Eastern Express is a scenic train journey that takes you from Ankara to Kars , passing through the beautiful landscapes of Anatolia. This route is particularly popular among travelers who want to explore the eastern part of Turkey. The train makes stops at various cities and towns, including Kayseri, Sivas, and Erzurum. The journey from Ankara to Kars on the Eastern Express takes approximately 24 hours.

2.Van Express: The Van Express is another fascinating train journey that starts from Ankara and takes you to the city of Van in eastern Turkey. This route offers stunning views of mountains, lakes, and historical sites along the way. It’s a great way to explore the eastern regions of Turkey. The Van Express, which operates between Ankara and Van, typically takes around 26 hours.

To purchase tickets for these train journeys, you can follow similar methods as mentioned earlier. However, it may be challenging to find tickets for these special trains as local travel agencies often buy them in advance and offer them as part of package deals with additional services. Nonetheless, it is still possible to secure a ticket for yourself. Just be aware that tickets tend to sell out quickly, so it is advisable to purchase your ticket months in advance to ensure availability.

This might be interesting for you: Best Summer Destinations in Turkey | 6 Cities For Holiday

TRAVELING BY BUS

4. buses: uncover the extensive road network.

One of the best ways to travel within Turkey is by busses. Buses are a popular and well-established mode of transport in Turkey, offering extensive coverage across the country. From bustling metropolises to charming coastal towns and historical sites, there are bus connections from every city to every corner of Turkey.

Traveling by bus in Turkey

Busses offer a cost-effective option with extensive coverage throughout the country. Traveling by bus in Turkey is often considered comfortable and efficient, with modern coaches equipped with amenities like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating.

In major tourist cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, Antalya, and Izmir , you can find well-organized bus terminals that serve as major transportation hubs. These terminals provide a wide range of bus connections to various destinations within Turkey. In touristic areas, such as Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and Ephesus , there are local bus services available to connect visitors to nearby attractions and neighboring cities. These buses often operate from designated bus stations or stops located conveniently in tourist areas.

Popular bus companies in Turkey

Several bus companies operate in Turkey , offering reliable services for intercity travel. Some of the most popular bus companies include Metro Turizm, Kamil Koç, Pamukkale Turizm, Ulusoy, VIB, and Varan. These companies have well-maintained fleets, professional drivers, and a wide network of routes covering major cities and tourist destinations.

How to buy a bus ticket in Turkey?

To book bus tickets in Turkey, there are several reputable online platforms available. Some popular all-in-one websites for bus ticket bookings in Turkey include obilet.com , enuygun.com , and turna.com . These platforms allow you to search for available routes, compare prices, and conveniently book your tickets online. You can also visit bus companies’ websites to buy tickets.

Traveling by bus in Turkey offers a convenient and economical option for exploring the country’s diverse destinations. With well-connected routes, comfortable buses, and reliable bus companies, it is an excellent choice for both domestic and international tourists looking to discover the beauty of Turkey’s cities and regions.

RENTING A VEHICLE

5. renting a car in turkey.

Another one of the best ways to travel within Turkey is renting a car if you want to have the freedom to travel wherever you want. Renting a car in Turkey is a popular option for travelers who want the flexibility to explore at their own pace. It allows you to conveniently visit various attractions and destinations, especially those that may be less accessible by public transportation.

Here is some general information about renting a car in Turkey :

Renting a Car at Airports: Many major airports in Turkey have on-site car rental offices, making it convenient for travelers to pick up their rental vehicle upon arrival. Airports such as Istanbul Airport, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, Antalya Airport, and Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport have multiple car rental companies operating within their premises.

Popular Car Rental Companies: Some of the most well-known and trusted car rental companies in Turkey include Avis , Garenta , Enterprise , En Uygun , and Yolcu360 . These companies have a wide selection of vehicles, ranging from economy cars to luxury models, to suit different travel preferences and budgets. Please note that I do not have any personal experience with any of these websites. I cannot guarantee their trustworthiness, but I can say that they are among the most popular ones.

Trustful Way to Rent a Car: To ensure a smooth and reliable car rental experience, it is advisable to book directly through the official websites or offices of reputable car rental companies. This allows you to have direct communication with the company, access to their customer support, and the assurance of dealing with a trusted provider.

Renting a car in Turkey provides you with the freedom to travel at your own pace and explore remote areas that may not be easily accessible by public transportation. It offers convenience, especially for families or groups traveling together, as it eliminates the need to rely on schedules or crowded public transport. However, it’s important to consider factors like traffic conditions, parking availability, and the cost of fuel and tolls when comparing it to other transportation options.

When renting a car in Turkey, it’s recommended to carefully read the rental terms and conditions, understand insurance coverage, and have a valid driver’s license from your home country or an international driving permit (IDP). It’s also advisable to inspect the vehicle before signing the rental agreement and take note of any existing damages to avoid any disputes later.

This might be interesting for you: The Best Bays in Turkey |7 Paradise Bays

6. Renting a Van in Turkey

Discover the wonders of Turkey like never before by renting a van! Experience the freedom to explore at your own pace, connect with locals, and delve into breathtaking landscapes. If you’re seeking adventure, want to uncover hidden gems, and have the means, renting a van in Turkey is your ticket to an extraordinary journey. Embrace the thrill of the open road and create memories that will last a lifetime.

When renting a van in Turkey , there are a few important factors to consider to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

Vehicle Size: Determine the appropriate size of the van based on the number of passengers and the amount of luggage you’ll be carrying. Consider both comfort and practicality.

Rental Duration: Decide on the duration of your rental period. Some companies offer better rates for longer rentals, so plan accordingly.

Driving License: Ensure you have a valid driving license that is accepted in Turkey. Most car rental companies require an international driving permit, especially if your license is not in English or Turkish.

Insurance Coverage: Review the insurance options provided by the rental company. It’s essential to have comprehensive coverage that includes liability, collision, and theft protection. Read the terms and conditions carefully and clarify any doubts before signing the rental agreement.

Additional Equipment: Check if the van rental company offers optional equipment such as child seats, GPS navigation systems, or roof racks. Assess your needs and determine if any additional items are necessary for your trip.

Pick-up and Drop-off Locations: Select the most convenient rental office locations based on your itinerary. Major airports and city centers often have several rental options available.

Compare Prices and Reviews: Research multiple van rental companies to compare prices, terms, and customer reviews. This will help you find reputable companies with competitive rates and reliable service.

Some popular van rental websites in Turkey include:

Vannerzone (A Friend’s Company) Kolay Karavan Enterprise Avis Shantigo

Remember to book your van rental well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure availability and better rates. Carefully read the rental terms, understand the mileage limits, and familiarize yourself with local traffic rules before hitting the road.

BUDGET TRAVELING IN TURKEY

6. alternative options: blablacar and hitchhiking.

For budget-conscious travelers, BlaBlaCar and hitchhiking may appear as cheaper alternatives. BlaBlaCar is a ride-sharing platform that allows you to join someone driving to a specific destination and share the cost. It can be a great way to meet locals and fellow travelers. Hitchhiking, on the other hand, can be unpredictable and less safe, especially if you’re traveling alone. It’s always best to exercise caution and, ideally, travel in pairs or groups if you choose these options.

Personally, I do not recommend using either BlaBlaCar or hitchhiking if you are alone, as there may be individuals who seek to take advantage of others, especially of women. Even if you are traveling with friends, it is important to remain cautious. Therefore, I advise considering the risks involved. If you decide to proceed, here are some safety precautions to take: avoid hitchhiking or using BlaBlaCar at night, take note of the car’s license plate number, share it with your friends, share your location with your friends, carry a personal defense item, and make sure you know how to use it responsibly. Your safety should always be a top priority.

7. Taxi: An Expensive Option Best Reserved for Short Distances

While taxis are available in Turkey, they are generally more expensive compared to other modes of transportation. I do not recommend relying solely on taxis for long journeys, as they can significantly impact your travel budget. However, for short distances within cities or when convenience is paramount, taxis can be a convenient option. Just ensure that the driver uses the meter or agrees upon a fare before starting the ride.

In Turkey, Uber is not available. However, for safer and more cost-effective taxi travels, you can use the Bitaksi app. Simply download the app and utilize it for your taxi needs across various cities in Turkey. Bitaksi is a convenient and reliable option for taxi services. Additionally, in Istanbul, there is another dedicated app called iTaksi that you can use specifically for taxi rides within the city. These apps provide a convenient way to hail taxis and ensure a smoother and more secure travel experience in Turkey.

As you embark on your Turkish adventure, remember that traveling within the country is a joyous experience filled with diverse transportation options. Embrace the vibrant public transport networks in cities, explore domestic flights for longer distances, savor scenic rail journeys, and navigate the extensive bus network to reach every corner of this beautiful land. While taxis, BlaBlaCar, and hitchhiking can be considered, it’s important to exercise caution and consider other options for a safer and more reliable journey. So, pack your bags, embark on this remarkable journey, and create unforgettable memories as you traverse the captivating landscapes of Turkey.

For more detailed information and specific city travel guides, please refer to my comprehensive Istanbul travel planner and other city-specific travel guides on my website.

Need Help? Don’t hesitate to contact me!

Planning a trip to Turkey can be exciting, but it’s normal to have questions or need further guidance. As a passionate local travel blogger, I’m here to help you make the most of your journey. If you have any queries, need recommendations, or seek personalized travel advice, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I would be more than happy to assist you in planning an unforgettable trip to Turkey.

Whether you’re seeking tips on navigating the public transportation system, suggestions for off-the-beaten-path destinations, or advice on creating the perfect itinerary, I’m just a click away. Feel free to contact me through the contact form on my website, and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Since I believe in the importance of mutual support, I have created a gig on Fiverr. If you have any questions about Turkey or need detailed advice on your travel plans, I am here to help. Additionally, I can assist in arranging your bookings. Feel free to check out my gig here: I’ll answer your questions & make travel plans

Safe travels and see you soon in enchanting Turkey! Happy travels!

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Ordinary human who likes traveling, walking, taking photos, writing stuff, painting, enjoying life🌼 For anything, please e-mail me.

• 25 March 2018

• Get a comprehensive overview of Turkey's attractions
• Travel comfortably all-inclusive ground and air transportation
• Relax in end-to-end ground and air transportation
• Marvel at the volcanic peaks, cones, caves and villages of Cappadocia
• Discover renowned ancient cities and ruins in Ephesus, Pamukkale and Cappadocia
• Finishing in Istanbul, this tour is the perfect introduction to Turkey for first-time visitors
• A small group size ensures each guest receives personalised service
• Enjoy a glimpse of life during the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods
• Visit top destinations of Turkey /Istanbul,Ephesus,Pamukkale,Cappadocia
• Inspire your imagination while viewing unique rock sculptures of Cappadocia
• Taste local flavors during a typical Turkish lunch at an authentic restaurants

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• Introduction
• Day 1 Arrival to Istanbul / Meet and Pick up / Transfer to Hotel
• Day 2 Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Tour (Best of Istanbul City Tour)
• Day 3 Flight to Cappadocia / Fairy Chimneys of Cappadocia Tour
• Day 4 Underground Cities of Cappadocia Tour
• Day 5 Flight to Izmir / Kusadasi
• Day 6 Ephesus Ancient Site & House of Virgin Mary
• Day 7 Pamukkale & Hierapolis Tour
• Day 8 Flight to Istanbul / Tour Ends

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'A' Group Ground Tour Operator in Turkey. Our services includes Private Tours, Cruise Shore Excursions, Small Group Tours, Guarantee Departure Tours which departs every day, all year-round. We employ only experienced, licensed tour guides, and use only modern, comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles. Sightseeing and touring information is current and accurate, and accommodations and restaurants are simply the best Turkey offers.

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7 of the best cities to visit in Turkey

F ew countries so close to home can tick off as many travel essentials as Turkey , with flights from the UK taking around four hours, or about four days if you take the train.

The country has warm weather in both summer and winter, while being home to beautiful coastal areas , renowned historic sights, buoyant party resorts and an eclectic range of cities.

It’s no secret that Turkey is an excellent holiday destination. But less well known is the variety on show within its cities, a surprising number of which will keep you busy over a weekend or even longer.

Istanbul is many visitors’ first taste of the country, with its high-octane way of life and excellent range of things to do providing a memorable introduction to Turkish culture, history, cuisine and nightlife.

In Turkey’s south west, the Turquoise Coast – also known as the Turkish Riviera – is home to cities such as Bodrum and Antalya . They combine distinct heritage with striking coastal beauty, the perfect spots to visit in the midst of a beach holiday in this laid-back part of the world.

In the capital, Ankara , meanwhile, a vibrant energy attracts Turkish and foreign visitors alike.

But in a country so large, and so blessed with captivating cities, it can be difficult to know where to begin. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the best cities in Turkey to help you plan your next adventure , whether it’s history, nightlife or culture that gets you going.

With a population of around 16 million people, Istanbul is a city that seemingly never sleeps. Bisected by the emerald waters of the Bosphorous Strait (which you can tour by boat for marvelous views), this is the place where two continents meet, and this fusion of distinct cultures has created a vibrant city whose energetic way of life often borders on chaotic.

A city steeped in the history of both Europe and Asia, Istanbul has been the home of three different empires over almost three millennia, and today still preserves some remnants of these vastly different cultures. Ottoman and Byzantine influences dominate, particularly in the Sultanahmet district, home to many of the city’s must-see sights.

Prime among these are the Blue Mosque, with its towering minarets, and the Hagia Sophia, a mosque that was originally constructed as a church, reflecting the changing influences that the city has been subject to. Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern are the district’s other main attractions, though it pays to explore further afield in areas like Balat, originally the city’s Greek Orthodox and Armenian neighbourhood, and Fener.

For a more contemporary taste of Istanbul, Arnavutköy is the heart of the city’s nightlife scene, while SALT Beyoğlu hosts art exhibitions and film screenings.

Read more on Turkey travel :

• Best Turkey holiday destinations
• All aboard the night train to Istanbul: the reality of one of the ‘world’s best’ rail journeys
• Turkey’s best winter sun spots to visit

Most years, Antalya competes with Istanbul for the title of ‘most visited Turkish city’. Though just a fraction of the size, Antalya, the capital of the country’s Turquoise Coast, punches above its weight in the tourism stakes thanks to a characterful old town, a beautiful harbour and dozens of beautiful surrounding beaches.

Some of the best nearby beaches include Cirali, Konyaalti and Patara, and while many choose to stay in one of the various beachfront resorts that populate the surrounding coastline, exploring Antalya itself is certainly worth leaving your sun lounger for.

Its charming old town, known as Kaleiçi, consists of labyrinthine streets housing a series of mosques, ancient walls, russet-roofed stone buildings and parks that attest to the influence of Ottoman culture and architecture. These narrow alleys snake down to the equally idyllic harbour, where a slew of cafes and restaurants welcome revellers throughout the day and night.

Bodrum is best known as an ideal spot for a Turkish summer holiday. Set among rolling green hills, it has an enviable coastal location, pristine beaches like Yahsi and Aspat, a variety of tourist sites and lively nightlife for those who seek it.

A range of resorts, from the dazzling high-end to the more affordable and family-friendly, cater to all sorts of tourists, whether you’re looking for parties on the marina or want to delve into the region’s history. There’s plenty of Bodrum’s past to explore; once known as Halicarnassus, it still contains a mausoleum, ancient ruins, a Roman theatre and the 700-year-old Bodrum Castle.

Like any coastal tourist city, there’s plenty more to see and do in Bodrum away from ruins and sun loungers. Scuba diving is a popular activity in nearby Gokova Bay, while boat trips around the peninsula or the Dalyan River are a good way to spend an afternoon, as is wine tasting at Karnas Vineyards . The town’s proximity to Kos means that tourists and locals alike will often spend the day in Greece too.

Turkey’s capital city may be overshadowed by world-renowned Istanbul, but Ankara offers visitors an experience of Turkey’s ‘other’ side, away from chaotic cities and party-centric coastal resorts. This is a youthful, exciting city that fuses the old and the new. It is fuelled by its relatively new status as a major city, and vibrant modern areas such as studenty Kizilay and more upmarket Kavaklidere.

But Ankara has been careful not to forget its past. High above the city sits the Anit Kabir, the vast mausoleum of the father of modern Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who led the War of Independence and bestowed the city’s status as capital. Down below in Hisar, Roman monuments like those at Ulus sit alongside Byzantine citadel walls that enclose Ottoman-era mini villages. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and the Museum of the War of Independence are two more historical highlights, while the parks of Kugulu and Genclik provide some much-needed green space.

Izmir is sometimes overlooked in favour of nearby Bodrum or Marmaris, but Turkey’s third largest city is home to plenty of arts, culture and a rich heritage, as well as the idyllic coastal resorts of Cesme, Alacati and Urla.

While the city’s past was characterised by activity around the Bay of Izmir, Konak Pier and the impressive city promenade (known as Kordon), the modern-day symbol of the city is its 20th-century Clock Tower.

It is located in the middle of Konak Square, in the district of the same name, which is also the gateway of the maze-like 17 th -century Kemeralti Market. This Turkish bazaar stretches across the city into the Roman agora, with the ancient Kadifekale fort being the other main historic site.

Located on the border with Greece and Bulgaria , Edirne is a city with a more European feel than other Turkish counterparts, but one whose architecture, mosques, bazaars and palace provide a constant reminder that you are in a former Ottoman capital.

Edirne sits along the banks of both the Maritza and Tunca rivers, surrounded by verdant plains and with much of the same white-washed, russet-roofed building styles as Antalya. The city’s main landmark is the 16th-century Selimiye Mosque, an impressive Unesco-listed structure that has become a symbol of Edirne. Other mosques, such as Muradiye, Old Mosque and the Sultan Beyezid II Complex, adorn the city skyline, while a series of bridges over the Tunca also hark back to Ottoman times, and provide a base for summer relaxation and mild swims.

Marmaris is a popular coastal town, welcoming thousands of tourists every summer despite its modest size. It benefits from a striking location on the Aegean Sea and surrounded by dense forest and towering hills, with a coastline that is home to golden sand lapped by azure waters along beaches like Urban or Long Beach.

Like Antalya, the town begins in its yacht-filled marina, with a maze of narrow streets slowly snaking back into the old town, itself a sea of red roofs and white-washed buildings. Marmaris Castle, the museum, the bazaar and Jinan Gardens are worth exploring to take in history, a spot of shopping and a pleasant stroll, before ending the day on aptly named Bar Street, the centre of the city’s often raucous nightlife.

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Russia-Ukraine latest: Italian fighter jets intercept 'Russian planes' over Baltic Sea; latest attacks put Moldova at risk, says Zelenskyy

Defence sources say Italian fighter jets intercepted Russian planes over the Baltic Sea. Meanwhile, Volodymyr Zelenskyy says Ukraine is not the only nation at risk from Moscow's attacks on power plants, following a massive series of missile strikes.

Friday 29 March 2024 22:52, UK

• Poland scrambles fighter jets after Russian strikes on western Ukraine
• Italian airforce intercepts 'Russian planes' over Baltic Sea
• Moldova at risk from Russian attacks on power plants, says Zelenskyy
• Three explosions reported near Ukrainian border with Moldova
• Drone fragments found in Romania
• Explained: How the war has strayed outside Ukraine's borders
• Listen to the Daily podcast above and  tap here  to follow wherever you get your podcasts

That's all for this evening, but we'll be back with more live updates and analysis soon.

The UK defence ministry has released images of damage to two Russian Black Sea ships following Ukrainian strikes on Sunday.

A Yury Ivanov-class intelligence ship and two Ropucha-class landing ships were damaged.

Russian vessels have been "forced to deploy to alternative port facilities further east" rather than Sevastopol due to Ukrainian operations. 

"Despite Russia's attempts to limit its losses, Ukraine continues to demonstrate success in diminishing the Black Sea Fleet's ability to project power in the region."

Ukraine will have to retreat "in small steps" if it does not get US support, Volodymyr Zelenskyy has told the Washington Post.

And without the ability to intercept Russian attacks on critical energy infrastructure, Ukraine will be forced to strike at Russian energy facilities to establish deterrence, he said.

His warning comes as Republican speaker of the house Mike Johnson refuses to schedule a vote on a $60bn military aid bill that has already passed the senate with bipartisan support.

"If there is no US support, it means that we have no air defence, no Patriot missiles, no jammers for electronic warfare, no 155-milimeter artillery rounds. It means we will go back, retreat, step by step, in small steps," said Mr Zelenskyy.

He described a hypothetical area of the frontline that required 8,000 rounds a day to defend.

If you have 2,000 rounds, he said, your forces have to retreat to "make the front line shorter" and conserve ammunition.

Otherwise the Russians could break through to the big cities, he explained.

Earlier today we brought you footage of a Russian military plane crashing into the sea near occupied Crimea.

The Ukrainian navy has now claimed it was shot down by Russia's own forces in a friendly fire incident, according to reports.

Ukrinform cited a TV appearance by spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk in which he said the Russians were on high alert and "someone really wanted to get a medal".

"We confirm that this plane belonged to the Russian Federation and that it was destroyed by their own forces. 

"They were on high alert, in combat readiness. The human factor came into play - someone really wanted to get a medal and failed to figure out whose plane it was."

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has dismissed two deputy heads of his office and appointing a former top security official as ambassador to neighbouring Moldova. 

A presidential decree announced the dismissal of Andryy Smyrnov, who was responsible for legal policy matters, and Oleksyy Dniprov, who headed the office's "apparatus". 

They were among 10 deputies to Mr Zelenskyy's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak. 

Appointed in their place were Olena Kovalska, who has been part of a group advising the president on the creation of a tribunal to prosecute Russia over its invasion of Ukraine, and Iryna Mudra, who has served as deputy justice minister.

Mr Zelenskyy has overseen sweeping changes in senior positions, particularly among top military officers, appointing Oleksandr Syrskyi as commander in chief last month to replace the country's popular commander Valeriy Zaluzhyi. 

In his nightly video address, Mr Zelenskyy said he had appointed Oleksyy Danilov, former head of Ukraine's security and defence council, as ambassador to Moldova, saying Mr Danilov had wanted a diplomatic appointment. 

The president described Moldova, whose pro-European president Maia Sandu has denounced Russia's invasion, as "an extremely important state - both from the point of view of security challenges in the region, and from the point of view of bilateral cooperation". 

The Italian airforce intercepted two Russian aircraft flying over international waters in the Baltic Sea, defence sources in Rome told Reuters.

The interceptions were carried out on Thursday and Friday morning by Italian Eurofighter jets based in the Polish base of Malbork as part of a NATO air policing mission, the airforce said.

After completing their activity, the Italian jets returned to the Polish base, the airforce added, without giving further details.

The two defence sources said the Russian aircraft were spotted by radars but did not respond to radio signals and requests to communicate. 

Mourners gathered in Boyarka, near Kyiv, for the funeral of a Ukrainian Armed Forces Captain who was killed on the frontline.

Serhii Vatsko, 50, had been a veteran of the fighting since 2014 when he volunteered to join the military as they fought against Moscow-backed separatists in the country's east.

Paying tribute at his funeral, Captain Andriy Nazarenk, 35, commander of the strike company of unmanned aircraft systems, described Capt Vatsko as a "person that you could trust your life to".

Mariana Zavialova, a combat medic, added: "Serhii was a person that loved his wife, his family, country and loved his life very deeply."

A Russian court has detained a Russian journalist who covered the trials of late opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

Antonina Favorskaya has been remanded in custody for two months, charged with participation in an extremist organisation.

She has been accused of taking part in Alexei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation.

Ms Favorskaya said she was not guilty and opposed the hearing being closed, according to the group.

Ukraine's air force have downed two Russian missiles in the southern port city of Odesa, injuring five people, according to officials.

A 15-year-old boy was among the injured, Odesa mayor Gennadiy Trukhanov said.

"The enemy insidiously directs missile strikes on industrial and residential areas of Odesa," the southern military command said.

Moscow has increased its use of ballistic missiles in recent days, which are much faster than regular cruise missiles and harder to shoot down.

More now on the massive Russian missile attack on power plants we reported this morning.

Kaniv hydropower plant and Dnister plant, located on the Dnister River that flows through neighbouring Moldova, were among the targets, Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said.

Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said energy facilities in six regions had been damaged.

"The terrorist state of Russia wishes to repeat the ecological disaster in the Kherson region following Russia's destruction of the Kakhovka HPP [dam]," said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

"This time, not only Ukraine but also Moldova are at risk."

He called for more air defences from allies, urging them act "quickly and decisively".

The largest private power firm, DTEK, said its three thermal power plants had come under attack and equipment was severely damaged.

Ukrainian state-run Naftogaz oil and gas firm said its facilities had been attacked but reported no serious damage.

The Ukrainian military said its air force had destroyed 58 of 60 attack drones and 26 of 39 missiles.

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