Turkey is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe, and for good reason – it has the complete package. Gorgeous beaches, incredible scenery, a rich culture and its colourful, intriguing history are just a few of the things that attract tourists to this fascinating country in their millions every year.
With coastlines on the Black Sea, the Aegean and the Mediterranean, Turkey offers tourists incredible choice as a holiday destination. You can spend one day lazing on the sand and the next delving into Turkey’s intriguing past at one of its many heritage sites.
Turkey Travel Resources
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Why Go
Year after year, more and more people are falling for Turkey in a big way and take a closer look, and its not hard to see why this vibrant eastern Mediterranean country is fast becoming a best-loved holiday destination.
Turkey offers a refreshing east-meets-west blend of culture, cuisine and colour – with a climate that’s hard to beat, too. Straddling two continents, and centuries of civilisation, Turkey has more ancient monuments and world heritage sites than even Greece.
Yet this is a country firmly looking forward – determined to show that Turkey holidays offer the most tempting range of good value resorts and comfortable, well cared-for accommodation.
From cosmopolitan cities to bustling, ultra modern resorts, firmly focused on clean, well cared for beaches, Turkey’s three coastlines offer miles of opportunities to explore this kaleidoscopic country.
All inclusive holidays to Turkey are justifiably popular – the country’s made great strides in providing dependable, good value accommodation at every price point.
There are swish, boutique hotels rubbing shoulders with rustic apartments – and, everywhere, wonderfully welcoming restaurants and bars serving, for our money, the most exciting cuisine in the Mediterranean.
Essentially, though, Turkey is a land which wears its beauty lightly – yes, you could be spent exploring its ancient sites and striking natural wonders but, unlike other ancient hotspots, in Turkey, history is alive, infectious and all around.
It’s also outside the Euro-zone, making it easier than ever to enjoy cheap Turkey holidays too.
Tours
Search small group adventure tours to destinations throughout Turkey with G Adventures or Contiki.
Best Places to Visit in Turkey
These are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey to add to your itinerary: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, Pamukkale, Bodrum, İzmir, Bosphorus, Fethiye, Ankara, Marmaris, Kuşadası, Bursa, Ölüdeniz, Göreme and Alanya.
Turkish Cities
If Turkey is the country of your expat dreams but you’re not sure where to settle then read all about the country’s top three cities!
The ancient majestic city of Istanbul has been the imperial capital of the Roman, Byzantine, Latin and Ottoman empires and is the largest city in Turkey, constituting the heart of the nation’s culture, economy and history. This is one of the most underrated European cities to visit.
Thanks to its long history and geographic location Istanbul is filled with spectacular sights. The most famous landmark in the city is the national Mosque of Turkey, known as the Blue Mosque it incorporates both Islamic and Byzantine design and is one of the largest mosques in the world. The Hagia Sophia is also a must see.
This ancient church was built in 537 and was the largest Christian cathedral in the world for over a millennium. As well as religious and historical buildings the city is a melting pot of Islamic culture and hosts the largest outdoor bazaar in the world drawing 500,000 visitors every day.
Ankara
The capital of Turkey and the second largest city in the country is located in central Anatolia and is an important commercial and industrial city.
It is the centre of the Turkish government and houses all foreign embassies. Its location makes it an important crossroads for trade, transport links and defence. As of 2011 the population of Ankara stood at over four-and-a-half million people.
Facts:
• The legendary King Midas is often credited with founding the city
• The city has been control by many different civilisations, from Persians, Greeks, Romans, Celts, Byzantines, Mongols, and Turks.
• Ankara’s leading modern monument is the Atatürk mausoleum, completed in 1953
• It became the nation’s capital in 1923
Main attractions:
Like most of the Turkish cities in Anatolia, Ankara is the home of many historical sites including the Roman ruins of the Temple of Augustus and Roman baths. In the oldest area of the city is the citadel of Ankara which hosts a variety of cafes and restaurants. Modern attractions are the water park, Youth Park and the resting place of the nation’s founder, Ataturk.
Cappadocia
Prepare your eyes for a whimsical fairy-tale dream. This marvellous lava-sculpted chimney fortress in central Turkey is one of the most unique landscapes to be seen on the planet.
Spend your trip exploring the hundreds of pinnacles, caves and underground cities, like Derinkuyu. Or soar above the moonscape areas in a hot air balloon and experience a bird’s eye view of this captivating and interesting place. If Cappadocia isn’t on your bucket list, then it should be.
The scene of Cappadocia is iconic – a rugged, fairytale-esque landscape scattered with colourful hot air balloons. Due to its rocky formation it was the perfect hiding place, and Cappadocia is even home to an ancient underground city where some 6000 people once lived. Turkey is filled with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and Cappadocia is just one of the beautiful places in the country that will take your breath away.
Must-dos:
• Explore one of the dozens of underground cave cities; beeline for Kaymakli.
• If you can’t afford to stay in a cave hotel, make sure you drink or dine atop of one for the amazing views.
• Take a hot air balloon ride above the formations to watch the sun slowly illuminate the whacky landscape.
• Check out Pasabag, an area famed for its chimney-like formations, shooting up from the ground like mushrooms. Inside one of these, there’s a chapel!
Turkey’s Turquoise Coast
If you’re looking for a destination with a fascinating history, interesting cities, diverse scenery and beautiful beaches, you can’t beat Turkey’s Turquoise Coast.
This is a great area if you want to enjoy a sedate, extended break, whether it’s from work or just the stresses and strains of everyday life. Turkey’s Turquoise Coast is one of the best options if you want to travel around the country with ease.
There are regular bus and boat services between the various resorts along this stretch of Turkey’s coastline, making it straightforward if you want to move from one spot to another.
Here are just a few of the destinations you could include on your itinerary.
Fethiye
Fethiye is one of the most popular resorts on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast and a good place to begin an adventure. Fethiye is well known for its beaches and taking a boat trip along the coast is an absolute must!
For fans of history you should check out the Tomb of Amyntas a relic of the ancient city of Telmessos on which Fethiye is built upon.
The town is located next to a vast stretch of sand and shingle that is protected by a calm, blue lagoon with some of the best beaches in Europe. As well as just relaxing and getting into the spirit with the chilled out vibe in Fethiye, you can have a go at paragliding if you want to enjoy something a bit more adventurous.
The hills and mountains around the resort are ideal for taking to the skies in one of the gliders and you’ll have amazing views of the coast and the beautiful Olu Deniz lagoon if you decide to try this sport here.
Facts:
• Fethiye is located on the ‘Turquoise Coast’ on Turkeys Aegean shore, an area renowned for its natural beauty.
• The city is situated between Antalya and Marmaris and is considered one of Turkey’s most beautiful beach resorts.
• The city’s population is around 30,000 people
• The city was formally named Makri before being renamed Fethiye in 1934, in honour of Fethi Bey one of the first pilots in the Ottoman air force who was killed on a mission.
• Many earthquakes have struck the area in the past but after 1961 the town was rebuilt to withstand tremors.
Izmir
Izmir is one of the most impressive cities in this part of Turkey and has a fascinating heritage that you can discover when you visit it.
According to legend, it was founded by the female warriors known as the Amazons and was originally known as Smyrna. If you want to get an overview of the region’s history, head to the Archaeology Museum in Bahribaba Park, which showcases more than 1,500 monuments discovered during the course of various excavations at locations such as Iasos, Pitane and ancient Smyrna.
Another historical spot to visit is the Church of Saint Polycarp – the oldest such place of worship in Izmir. It was built during the reign of Suleyman the Magnificent in 1625 and has been in use ever since. The interior is ornately decorated with a selection of intricate frescoes that detail the death of Saint Polycarp, among other religious scenes.
Dalyan
If you’re keen to get back to nature as well as try a host of new sports and visit historical sites, make sure Dalyan is on your list.
This small town is located inland from the coast on a river estuary, but is just a short boat trip away from one of the most pristine beaches on this part of Turkey’s coast. Iztuzu beach is a breeding site for endangered loggerhead turtles, which means that no development is allowed in the area.
To reach Iztuzu, you’ll travel along the Dalyan River through reed beds that are home to a range of birdlife, so keep your eyes peeled as you make your way to the coast.
This is just a small taste of what Turkey has to offer, so no matter what kind of attractions you’re keen to visit, you should discover that Turkey delivers.
Unmissable Things to Do in Turkey
Don’t leave Turkey without…
Sailing
Escape on a relaxing boat trip visiting the most exquisite islands and exciting resort towns. Spend time on your ship lying on the sundecks next to the onboard pool, take time out in the Jacuzzis and have fun socialising in the comfortable lounges and bars.
Sail to Turkey’s popular resort of Kusadasi for shopping at the colourful bazaar or perhaps take a visit to the breathtaking ancient ruins of Ephesus. Take in the holy atmosphere of Patmos where St John wrote the Apocalypse.
Paraglide the Blue Lagoon
Oludeniz has one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey, with pebble shores and a “blue lagoon” of aquamarine hues. The beach also happens to be one of the world’s best places to paraglide, thanks to stable weather and gorgeous panoramic views. The launch site for most companies is from Babadağ mountain, with jumping-off points reaching 6,000 feet above sea level.
Turkey Travel Tips
Whether you are off to explore the old town of Antalya, taking a cruise from Bodrum to Fethiye or soaking up the Mediterranean charm of Dalaman, there are a few things need to know about Turkey before you get arrive. Read on to view my top travel tips and answers to the most common FAQs.
What is the time zone?
Turkey’s main time zone is GMT +2.
What is the weather like?
Due to Turkey’s size, the weather can vary from region to region. Popular with holidaymakers, the Aegean and the Mediterranean coast can benefit from hot weather that hovers around the high 20s and mid 30s in the peak summer months (June, July, August and September).
Rainfall is also at its lowest during this period making it the ideal time for a visit. The hot weather and intense sunshine mean that it is imperative that you cover up during long periods outside. Drink plenty of water, wear a wide-brimmed hat and use plenty of sun lotion.
What is the currency in Turkey?
Although officially the currency is the Turkish lira (TL), euros are also accepted in some parts of the country (particularly those that are most popular with tourists). To avoid difficulty, it is sensible to enter the country with lira and carry some on you at all times.
Paper currency comes in the following notes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200. TL is commonly used to signify the price of something, for example 20 TL. Coins (smaller than one lira becomes kuruş) are also found in the form of 5, 10, 25, and 50 kuruş. The U.S dollar is also accepted sporadically at some big hotels, shopping centres and restaurants.
Should I tip in Turkey?
Tipping is customary in Turkey. In local eateries a few coins are sufficient while in mid- to high-end restaurants, a 10 to 15 percent service charge should be included in the bill. Hotel staff should receive between 5 to 20 Turkish Lira, depending on the service rendered.
For taxi drivers, if the fare is 7.60 TL, round up to 8 TL. Again, if you need help with your bags, tip a little bit extra. If you visit a Turkish bath, your masseur will expect a 10 to 20 percent tip, and you’ll be so relaxed it will be worth it.
Can I use my debit and credit cards?
Larger towns and cities in Turkey have many ATMs that will accept major European bank cards without issue. Look for machines that display the provider that matches the one on your card before attempting to use it. You should notify your bank of your intention to use the card in Turkey beforehand, and there may also be charges when using your card abroad. Many ATMs have English instructions.
Should I dress a certain way?
Most of Turkey’s tourist centres are very relaxed when it comes to dress, for both men and women. However, there is a degree of common sense to be used. When visiting a mosque of any site of religious significance you should dress respectfully and modestly. This means covering bare arms and legs, women covering their hair and, of course, removing your shoes before entry.
Can I drink the tap water?
Generally, it is safe to drink Turkish tap water, but it is advised that you opt for the bottled variety which is widely available.
Do I need a visa?
Yes you do. You can either apply online at beforehand. These visas are issued on arrival and last for 90 days.
What plug sockets do they have in Turkey?
Like continental Europe, two-pin plug sockets are the most common in Turkey. You may wish to purchase an adapter before you travel.
What languages are spoken in Turkey?
The country’s official language is Turkish, but English is widely spoken in the main tourist areas of Turkey and you should have no issues with communication for the duration of your visit. Many Turkish people who work in the hospitality industry are fluent in English due to the large influx of British nationals that visit the country every year.
Will my mobile phone work in Turkey?
This depends on your SIM provider but some should work. Ask your mobile provider beforehand just to be sure.
What is the capital of Turkey?
Many believe that Turkey’s largest city Istanbul is the capital, but it is in fact Ankara which is located in the country’s Central Anatolia region.
Food and Drink
Of all the countries that I have been lucky enough to visit on my travels, I can safely tell you that the food I had in Turkey is amongst some of the best in the world. It just never once let me down when I was on holiday there, you can get the most amazing kebabs on pretty mush every street corner or restaurant that you visit. The best thing is that it is cheap and so tasty!
When travelling one of the biggest things that you have to get used to is the food, in Turkey it takes no time at all to adapt to the local cuisine. I mean seriously, who doesn’t love a great kebab? It doesn’t matter if you are a vegetarian because the flavours are so good in all of the dishes that taking away the meat and adding more vegetables makes no difference to the taste at all.
When in Turkey you should try as much food as you possibly can. The great thing about Turkish food is that it is not too unhealthy for you. It is a myth that kebabs are fattening and unhealthy. If you break it down, you have a wrap, meat and salad all of these ingredients are healthy for you and contain most of the things we need to have in our diet.
I advise you to not even think about how healthy each dish is when you are ordering your food in Turkey because you should indulge in everything that you see, you will regret not trying everything when you get home.
Breakfast time in Turkey is brilliant, it’s a very simple affair but still very tasty. You will usually web presented with a buffet that includes; fresh bread, a huge number of spreads, selection of cheeses, cold meats, olives, eggs and tomatoes. You may be lucky enough to get served fresh Turkish coffer as well, it’s the best way to get your day started before you go and explore the sites.
Remember all of those kebabs you have had back home in the UK, I’m sure some of them have been in the early hours of the morning. Some of them I know will not have been very tasty but still kebabs in the UK are of quite a good standard.
Well, I know that when you get home you will not want to eat another kebab, that’s because the kebabs in Turkey are absolutely amazing! It doesn’t matter if you are splashing out on an expensive meal or eating from a makeshift street stall, your taste buds will be overjoyed with the kebabs that you are served.