Turkey is a fantastic blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re visiting the ruins at Ephesus or sailing along the Mediterranean coast, Turkey is a place that offers adventure and tranquility. To make your trip smooth, here are some essential tips to help you travel wisely in Turkey.
Transportation in Turkey
Using Public Transport
The public transportation system in Turkey is great, especially in big cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. You can use buses, trams, ferries, and metro services. In Istanbul, pick up an “Istanbulkart.” It’s a prepaid card that works on all public transportation and saves you money on each ride.
Domestic Flights
Turkey is a large country. If you’re hopping between major cities or tourist regions (like Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Antalya), look into flying. Domestic flights are cheap, and airlines like Pegasus, Turkish Airlines, and AnadoluJet offer affordable options even if you book last-minute.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Taxis are available in every city, but make sure the driver uses the meter. If they don’t want to use it, walk away. Ride-sharing apps like BiTaksi and Uber also operate in Turkish cities and can be a more convenient and transparent option at times. Be aware that Istanbul traffic can be heavy, so factor that into your plans.
Intercity Buses
Travelers on a budget should consider using Turkey’s extensive bus network for intercity trips. Companies like Metro Turizm and Pamukkale Turizm offer long-distance connections between most cities. Buses are comfortable, and many include Wi-Fi and snacks.
Saving Money in Turkey
Use Cash Frequently
While credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and touristy areas, cash is still king in many smaller towns and rural destinations. It’s best to withdraw Turkish lira (TRY) from an ATM. Don’t exchange money at airports or tourist-heavy places, where the rates are often poor.
Bargain at Markets
If you’re visiting markets or local bazaars, feel free to haggle. It’s expected. However, be polite and reasonable in your negotiations. This applies especially to places like the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul or street markets in smaller towns.
Eating on a Budget
Eating out can be cheap if you stick to street food or local eateries (known as “lokantas”). Opt for dishes like “simit” (bagel-like bread) for breakfast, “kofte” (meatballs), or “kebabs” if you’re looking for inexpensive and hearty meals. Also, look out for “menemen” (scrambled eggs with tomatoes) for a low-cost breakfast.
Skip the Touts
In some tourist areas, touts may aggressively approach you to sell tours, souvenirs, or invite you to restaurants. Politely decline and walk away. You’ll always find more reasonably priced options if you avoid these traps.
Safety Tips in Turkey
Is Turkey Safe?
Yes, Turkey is generally safe for travelers. Petty crime, like pickpocketing, is the most common threat, particularly in busy areas like Istanbul. Always keep an eye on your wallet and smartphone, especially when you’re in crowded areas.
Be Careful in Traffic
Pedestrian traffic laws are often ignored in Turkey, especially in Istanbul. Always be aware of your surroundings and don’t assume cars will stop for you, even in crosswalks.
Scams to Avoid
Some common scams include the “shoe-shiner” scam where someone ‘accidentally’ drops a shoe brush and offers you a free shine, only to demand a large tip after. Another one to avoid is the scam where someone invites you to a bar only for you to receive a heavily inflated bill. Stick to well-known, reputable places to avoid these types of fraud.
Cultural Customs and Etiquette in Turkey
Dress Modestly
Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country, and while it’s modern, some areas—especially mosques—require you to dress modestly. At mosques, both men and women should avoid wearing shorts, and women should cover their heads, shoulders, and knees.
Learn Basic Turkish
While English is widely spoken in touristy areas, learning a few basic Turkish phrases like “Merhaba” (Hello), “Teşekkür ederim” (Thank you), and “Afedersiniz” (Excuse me) will go a long way in improving your interactions with locals.
Don’t Point the Soles of Your Feet
In many parts of Turkey, showing the soles of your feet or pointing at someone with your finger is seen as rude. Always sit with your feet flat on the floor when you’re in more traditional settings, especially as a guest in someone’s home.
Tea and Coffee Etiquette
Tea (“çay”) is a big part of Turkish hospitality, and you’ll often be offered a glass when you visit someone’s home or shop. Accept it if possible. And if you’re drinking Turkish coffee, don’t rush—sip it slowly and savor the moment.
Best Times to Visit Turkey
Spring and Fall
The best times to visit Turkey are the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to early November). The weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists compared to the summer months.
Avoid Mid-Summer
If you’re not a fan of heat, avoid July and August, especially in parts of Turkey like the southeast or along the coast where temperatures soar. If you’re venturing to Cappadocia or Istanbul during this time, expect crowds.
Winter Travel
If you’re not afraid of a little cold, winter (December to February) can be a peaceful time to visit Istanbul, and Cappadocia transforms into a snowy wonderland. However, some coastal resorts and tourist attractions may close in the off-season.
Blending in with the Locals
Avoid Standing Out as a Tourist
To blend in, avoid wearing shorts or tank tops in places that aren’t beach resorts. Locals dress more conservatively in cities, so opt for casual but modest clothing. Also, try not to speak too loudly; it’s generally seen as impolite.
Be Respectful at Religious Sites
Turkey is home to many beautiful and historical mosques. When visiting, be respectful. Dress modestly, remove your shoes before entering, and avoid visiting during prayer times unless you’re there to pray. Remember, many locals take their religion quite seriously.
Learn the Tipping Culture
Tipping is common in Turkey, but it’s not as hefty as in the U.S. At restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is enough. If you’re on a guided tour, a small tip to the guide and driver is customary.
Important Travel Documents
Visa Requirements
Many nationalities, including those from the U.S., U.K., and EU, can get an e-Visa before entering Turkey. Some other countries are visa-exempt. Be sure to check whether you need a visa before arriving. The Turkish e-Visa is easy to apply for online, and it generally gets approved in a matter of minutes.
Carry Your Passport or ID
You should always carry a copy of your passport (or other national ID if you’re from a country in the EU) while traveling around Turkey. In some spots, police or officials might ask you to show it during routine checks.
Connectivity and Internet
Get a SIM Card
A local SIM card will save you a lot of hassle, especially if you plan to use Google Maps and other apps regularly. Turkish sim card providers like Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom offer affordable prepaid plans. You can buy one at the airport or any mobile shop.
Wi-Fi Availability
Wi-Fi is widely available in cafes, hotels, and restaurants, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. If you’re cutting costs, Wi-Fi might be enough for your daily communication needs, but remember that speeds might be slower in rural areas.
Health and Medical Tips
Stay Hydrated
Tap water is generally safe to drink in major Turkish cities, but many locals still prefer bottled water. In rural areas, it’s better to stick to bottled water.
Travel Insurance
Don’t forget to buy travel insurance before your trip. Emergencies can happen, and having proper insurance will help cover any unexpected medical costs or lost belongings during your trip. Many budget and comprehensive plans cover Turkey.
Final Thoughts
Turkey is a fascinating and welcoming destination that has something for everyone. With preparing a little in advance, you’ll have an incredible trip filled with unforgettable moments. Remember these tips, stay flexible, and enjoy every part of what this historic and culturally rich country has to offer.
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