Things To Do
in Turkey
Turkey sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, where ancient civilizations meet dynamic modern culture. From the sunlit shores of the Aegean to the lunar valleys of Cappadocia, the landscape is as varied as its history. In cities like Istanbul and Izmir, centuries of trade, art, and religion mingle with a bustling contemporary scene.
With warm hospitality, diverse cuisine, and a sense of timeless possibility, Turkey invites curious travelers to explore its contrasts.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down at Istanbul Airport and soak in the buzz of the city as you sip traditional Turkish tea at a street-side café near Sultanahmet. Wander through the historic Hippodrome, imagining ancient chariot races as you admire the Obelisk of Theodosius. Feel the gentle morning light filter through the iconic Blue Mosque’s soaring domes as you step inside.
Savor a hearty lunch of kebabs and mezze before stepping into the opulent Topkapi Palace to marvel at its Ottoman treasures and lush courtyards. Lose yourself in the aromatic alleys of the Grand Bazaar, where colorful lanterns sway overhead and artisans craft fine jewelry. Pause for a glass of apple tea in a hidden courtyard, watching shopkeepers unfurl velvet carpets.
Indulge in a panoramic rooftop dinner overlooking the sparkling domes and minarets of Old Istanbul as the sun dips below the horizon. Drift along the illuminated Sultanahmet streets, the call to prayer echoing softly against stone walls. Conclude your day with a stroll to the serene Gülhane Park, letting the night breeze carry the scent of blossoming magnolias.
Board a traditional wooden yacht at Eminönü and set sail along the glittering Bosphorus, passing Ottoman palaces, grand villas, and the majestic Rumeli Fortress. Sip fresh orange juice on deck as seabirds dance across the waves and seagulls swoop down to greet you. Feel the sea breeze invigorate your senses while you learn tales of the waterway that bridges two continents.
Disembark on the Asian shore in the leafy neighborhood of Üsküdar to explore hidden mosques and vibrant street markets. Sample simit, the sesame-crusted bread rings, hot from a cart by the waterfront as you watch ferries glide past. Continue to the bohemian district of Kadıköy, where colorful street art and trendy cafés beckon you to linger.
Return to the European side for a sunset cruise passing beneath the Bosphorus Bridge, its lights shimmering on the calm water. Dine at a cozy fish restaurant perched on stilts, savoring meze platters and freshly grilled sea bass. Finish the night with a glass of raki at a seaside bar, toasting to the convergence of east and west.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi starting fare | $2-3 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and diverse landscapes from cities to coastlines
- World-class cuisine and generous hospitality
- Good value for money in many regions
- Excellent coastlines for sailing and outdoor adventures
- Well-connected domestic flights and improving infrastructure
- Crowds and higher prices in peak season in major destinations
- Language barrier outside major urban centers can be challenging
- Earthquake risk in several regions; always check alerts and insurance
- Traffic congestion in big cities like Istanbul
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Günaydın" - Good morning
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerede ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Afedersiniz" - Excuse me / Pardon
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Could you help me?
Places to Visit in Turkey
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic domed silhouette and stunning interiors with centuries of mosaics and light.
Majestic exterior and grand interior with six minarets and blue tiles.
Old town skyline and the bridge between continents from elevated vantage points.
Waterway silhouettes of ferries and palaces with golden light.
Fairy chimneys and valley views, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Terraced white pools against a blue sky, a surreal natural scene.
Ancient library, theater, and marble streets set the stage for photography.
Food in Turkey
Turkey Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Spiced minced meat skewers grilled over charcoal.
Must-Try!
Thinly sliced doner meat topped with tomato sauce, yogurt, and butter over pita.
Turkish dumplings served with garlicky yogurt and chili oil.
Assorted small plates of hummus, ezme, yogurt dips, and vegetables.
Flaky pastry filled with cheese or spinach.
Flatbread boat topped with cheese, meats, or vegetables.
Layers of phyllo with nuts and sweet syrup or honey.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest covered markets in the world; great for spices, sweets, and souvenirs.
A riot of aromas with dried fruits, spices, and Turkish delight.
Vibrant market on the Asian side offering fresh produce and prepared foods.
Simit (sesame bagel), balık-ekmek (fish sandwich), midye dolma (stuffed mussels), and döner on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple hello is Merhaba; a handshake is common in formal settings; titles and politeness matter.
Turkish people are hospitable; accepting tea or coffee is a friendly gesture.
Dress modestly for mosques; remove shoes where required; speak softly and follow photography rules.
Wait to be seated in restaurants; sharing plates is common; use right hand for handshakes and eating.
Safety
Tipping in Turkey
Ensure a smooth experience
Leave a small tip (5-10%) in restaurants if service is not included; small tips for porters, guides, and hotel staff are appreciated.
Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and larger establishments; carry some cash (Turkish Lira) for smaller vendors and markets; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and sunny coastal days; expect crowds at major sights; stay hydrated and plan early morning or late afternoon activities.
Mild temperatures and fewer crowds; ideal for outdoor sightseeing and coastal drives.
Milder in the coasts but cold inland and in Cappadocia; some outdoor sites have shorter hours; pack warm layers.
Blooming landscapes and pleasant weather; great for hiking and city exploration.
Turkey at Night
Hiking in Turkey
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Long-distance coastal trail along the Mediterranean with ancient ruins and turquoise waters.
Green canyon hike with cave churches and a river running through it.
Scenic valley hikes with otherworldly rock formations near Göreme.
Lush, rugged peaks and glaciers in the northeastern Black Sea region; excellent for multi-day treks.
Airports
How to reach Turkey by plane.
Major international hub serving Europe, Asia, and beyond; extensive domestic connections.
Secondary Istanbul airport serving many domestic and regional flights; convenient for Asia-side travelers.
Key gateway to the Aegean coast and nearby ancient sites.
Main gateway for the Turkish Riviera with direct international access.
Close to Cappadocia; convenient for ballooning and cave towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Ethnic Turkish majority with a rich regional and cultural diversity.
Important minority group primarily in the eastern and southeastern regions.
A religious and cultural community with distinct practices in various areas.
Historical minority with communities and churches in several cities; smaller today.
Historically significant, with smaller populations in Istanbul and along the coast.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport with passionate club culture across the country.
Growing popularity, with domestic leagues and national team presence.
Traditional sport and festival with a long historical heritage.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes can be adapted; look for meze, lentil soups, stuffed peppers, and eggplant dishes. When in doubt, ask for no meat stock or broth.
Rely on vegetable dishes, hummus, bulgur, pide with vegetables, and salads; confirm dairy-free yogurt or butter is not used.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Turkey.