Turkey Travel Guide – transportation, hotels, tips + itineraries for 1 and 2 weeks

Often celebrated as the historic and cultural bridge between Europe and Asia, where for countless generations ancient civilizations and powerful empires met, very few places can claim a heritage as rich as Turkey’s. After all, its current territory was once the center of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, two of the most influential forces in the history of mankind, having helped shape beliefs, rituals, customs and traditions still alive today in the Middle East and Orthodox Slavic regions.

However, Turkey is so much more than its historic and archaeologic legacy. With its unique culture that blends both Western and Eastern elements, the country offers an ideal introduction for those wishing to venture outside Europe for the first time without experiencing massive culture shock. Add in the vibrant energy of Istanbul, outstanding beaches along the Riviera and the iconic landscapes of Cappadocia – as well as budget-friendlier cost of living – and you got yourself a fantastic destination that appeals to both seasoned, adventurous travelers and clueless, tour-reliant beachgoers.

So, if you’re planning a trip to this stunning destination, our ultimate Turkey travel guide is here to help. In addition to practical information about hotels, restaurants, transportation and local experiences, we’ve also put together two comprehensive itineraries, including all the places you must see and visit in Turkey in 1 or 2 weeks.

Turkey Travel Guide

How to get to Turkey – Flights from the UK

Although there are several international airports scattered around Turkey, you are likely to be landing in one of Istanbul’s two major air hubs: the Istanbul Airport, considered the largest and most important; and the Sabiha Gokcen Airport, the main hub for Pegasus Airlines, the Turkish low-cost giant.

As such, if you’re traveling from the UK, it is possible to fly directly to Istanbul from any of these cities:

• Istanbul Airport
  • London–Heathrow – British Airways and Turkish Airlines
  • London–Gatwick –Wizz Air and Turkish Airlines
  • London–Luton – Wizz Air
  • Manchester – Easyjet and Turkish Airlines
  • Bristol – Easyjet
  • Birmingham – Turkish Airlines
  • Edinburgh – Turkish Airlines

• Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen
  • London-Heathrow – British Airways
  • London–Stansted – AJet and Pegasus Airlines
  • Manchester – Pegasus Airlines
  • Birmingham – Pegasus Airlines
  • Edinburgh – Pegasus Airlines

How many days do I need to visit Turkey?

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that Turkey is a big country, so one could easily spend months exploring its vast territory, from the Black Sea coast in the north to the Mediterranean in the south, from the European-influenced cities of Istanbul and Bursa in the west to the mountainous provinces of Eastern Anatolia. Plus, although there is definitely a shared culture that helps create a strong sense of national identity and unity (with the notable exception of Turkish Kurdistan), Turkey’s diversity from region to region can make it feel like you’re visiting several different countries within a single border.

What we mean by all of this is that even if you go with our longest itinerary (15 days), at least half the country will be left unexplored, as we focus mainly on the western part of Turkey. That being said, a full week is the bare minimum to visit Turkey’s iconic sites in Istanbul and Cappadocia. However, be prepared for a rushed experience that will barely scratch the surface of all Turkey has to offer. As such, we suggest setting aside a full two-week holiday to include the Turkish Riviera and get a better overview of the country. On the other hand, if you’re interested in venturing into eastern Turkey, exploring highlights like Mardin, Diyarbakir, Sanliurfa and the Ishak Pasha Palace, we recommend spending a full month in Turkey.

Turkey Travel Guide – Best time to visit the country

Depending on the goal of your trip, Turkey is the kind of destination you can visit all-year-round. However, like most destinations located along the Mediterranean, the best time to visit Turkey is on the so-called “shoulder-season”, during Spring and Fall.

Obviously, if enjoying the beaches along the Riviera is a particularly appealing highlight, then you’ll want to visit in the Summer, especially in the months of June and September, when prices are slightly lower and the crowds less bustling compared to peak season. Besides, other parts of Turkey (such as Istanbul and Cappadocia) can be scorching hot during July and August, making the whole ordeal a lot less pleasurable. The same goes for the crowds and the loooong queues whenever you need to buy tickets to enter a major tourist attraction.

Finally, and though you won’t be able to hit the beaches, visiting Turkey in the Winter can actually turn out to be a pretty interesting option. Yes, you may catch some rain or even the occasional snowfall, but temperatures are still rather tame compared to most of Europe in the same season. Furthermore, it will definitely be a budget-friendlier experience and you won’t have to fight through the crowds to check out the main sites.

Turkey Travel Guide – Documents needed for your trip

In order to enter Turkey, British and Irish citizens will just need to show your passport. The document should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into the country. No visa is required.

Turkey Travel Guide – Internet and SIM Cards

Since there is no special agreement in place between the UK and Turkey regarding international communications and roaming fees, using your regular phone plan is a big no-no!

Therefore, our recommendation is that you get a SIM Card when traveling to Turkey, which you can do immediately upon landing. However, keep in mind internet packages at the airport are absurdly overpriced when compared to local kiosks or official stores in the cities. Still, that doesn’t mean prices downtown will be cheap or even affordable, since the telecom market in Turkey is downright savage. As a tourist, you won’t be able to sign up for the same packages locals get, and the only deals you’ll be offered as a foreigner are utterly ridiculous when compared to the average cost of life in Turkey (and not in a good way). Plus, since the Turkish Lira is constantly losing value over the past decade, prices are constantly updating. Now that we’ve prepared you for the bad news, let’s delve into the packages offered by the three main companies in the industry in Turkey: Vodafone, Turkcell and Turk Telekom.

Vodafone SIM Card

• Welcome to Turkey Pack
  • Price: 1250 TL
  • Mobile Data: 20 GB
  • Minutes for local calls: 750
  • SMS for local numbers: 250
  • Period: 28 days

Turk Telekom SIM Card

• Tourist Welcome Package
  • Price: 1200 TL
  • Mobile Data: 20 GB
  • Minutes for local calls: 750
  • SMS for local numbers: 100
  • Period: 28 days

Turkcell SIM Card

• Tourist Welcome Pack
  • Price: 1000 TL
  • Mobile Data: 20 GB
  • Minutes for local calls: 200
  • Period: 30 days

Airalo e-SIM Card

All things considered, our honest recommendation is that you get a virtual SIM card so that you manage to stay connected during your trip to Turkey. Not only will you be able to install the e-SIM card before departure and use your phone as soon as you land, but rates are actually better compared to the rip-off deals you’ll find in stores. As an example, a 20 GB e-SIM costs €25,00, while you can also get a card with unlimited data for 10 days at €33,50.

You can buy your e-SIM from Airalo through this link and use the special code JOAO9445 for a 3$ discount on your first purchase.

Turkey Travel Guide – Withdrawals, banking fees and travel budget

With the Turkish Lira (TL) as the country’s official currency, any withdrawal using a UK bank card might incur in the payment of several different fees. Besides the percentual fee referring to the currency conversion, some UK banks may also charge a flat commission for withdrawals made outside the UK. In some instances, you may well end up paying 5%-6% of your original withdrawal in banking fees.

On the other hand, exchanging money before your trip is not a viable solution either. Besides not being any cheaper, it’s also not safe or wise to carry so much money on you during your trip. As such, we recommend using the services of online banking fintech companies such as Revolut, N26 or Monzo.

Although each have their own limitations and fees, they allow you to withdraw a certain amount in foreign currency without any fees involved. And even after that threshold is reached, costs are much smaller when compared to traditional banks. Keep in mind, though, this does not apply to fees issued by local banks for withdrawals made with foreign cards. In Turkey, it is very usual for ATMs to charge these, and fees can range from a 200-TL fixed amount up to 10% of the total withdrawal (crazy, we know). Be that as it may, a message will always pop up every time there is a fee per withdrawal, so you will never be caught unaware. Sign up for Revolut for free >> to get 3 months of Premium.

Regarding payments, and though there loads of establishments accepting card payments, keep in mind part of Turkey is still very much cash-based, so it’s better to always have some money on you. That said, if you prefer to take some of your local currency and exchange it in Turkey, here are 6 agencies with good reviews:

• Zuha Döviz – Eminonu, Istanbul
• Atlas Döviz – Grand Bazaar, Istanbul
• Çetin Döviz – Beyoglu, Istanbul
• TALAS ÜNAL SARRAF – Kayseri
• Grubu Döviz Bürosu – Antalya
• Tolunaylar Döviz – Antalya

Turkey Travel Guide – Safety and travel scams

Considering the sheer number of tourists who flock to the city each year, it’s no surprise that Istanbul is a pretty safe place to visit. While its reputation was somewhat tarnished by a series of terrorist attacks between 2015 and 2017, as well as the failed coup attempt in 2016, the truth is that Istanbul has never been more unsafe than other major European destinations like Paris, London or Barcelona, which also faced their fair share of attacks during that period.

More than any kind of physical or life-threatening risk, in Istanbul your main concern should revolve around taking good care of your belongings. Not that the city is known for theft or robbery, but frauds and scams targeting unsuspecting tourists to squeeze a few extra liras out of them are a reality. In this regard, I highly recommend using apps like Uber or BiTaksi – the local version – as dealing with Turkish taxi drivers is a true horror movie. In fact, considering how the country is known for its warmth, honesty and hospitality, taxi drivers are certainly among the most vilified segments of society (and rightfully so!). Additionally, when eating out near popular tourist spots, be especially attentive to restaurant menus. There have been instances where customers placed their orders based on the waiter’s suggestions without even looking at the menu, only to receive an unpleasant surprise when the bill arrived. It’s also worth noting that it is not uncommon to find two menus with different prices: one for locals and another (in English) for tourists. Therefore, my advice would be to thoroughly examine the menu and always double-check prices with the staff before ordering.

Speaking of scams, one cannot leave out the iconic bazaars, an integral part of the Turkish experience. Particularly at the most touristy bazaars, prices tend to be significantly higher for foreign visitors. However, keep in mind bargaining is expected and part of the culture. It’s like engaging in a dance, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you are being scammed… although, more often than not, you’ll end up paying more than what’s considered normal for Turks! If you’re uncomfortable with this scenario, it’s advisable to explore shopping options away from the most famous bazaars. In fact, while maintaining a friendly demeanor, it’s best to politely disregard any unsolicited approaches you encounter in these places. To explore and do some sightseeing, these touristic bazaars are great. To do some shopping, not so much!

Aside from these, you’ll just need to use your common sense and you’ll be fine. Be wary of your belongings in crowded areas, don’t flash your money or belongings and never EVER take help from anyone while you’re using the ATM. To sum it all up – don’t do anything you wouldn’t do anywhere else in the world!

Where to sleep in Turkey – Hotels and Accommodation

If you’re looking out for a place to stay on our Turkey travel guide, then we got you covered!

Although it is one of the most visited destinations in the world, Turkey is still relatively affordable by Western European standards. You can obviously find prices suitable to every budget, but the cost of living is generally lower compared to what you are used to back at home, although Turkey is suffering from record-shattering inflation levels and a significant depreciation of its currency (as of now, €1 = 37 TL… back in 2018, the rate was €1 for 4.5 TL!). This affordability extends to accommodation as well, although the current housing shortage crisis in Istanbul has led to higher hotel prices in this particular city. In fact, Istanbul is so saturated with hotels, apartments and other lodging options to the point where it sometimes becomes challenging to find good options among all the subpar ones.

That being said, here are some options based on the cities we recommend you to stay at:

Turkey Travel Guide – Hotels in Istanbul

• Hostel – Taksim History Wooden Hostel
• € – Atlantis Royal Hotel
• €€ – Zeyn Otel Istanbul
• €€€ – Sura Design Hotel & Suites

Turkey Travel Guide – Hotels in Goreme (Cappadocia)

• € – Enjoy Stone Hotel
• €€ – Terra Cave Hotel
• €€€ – Grand Cappadocia Hotel
• €€€€ – Anatolian Houses Cave Hotel & SPA

Turkey Travel Guide – Hotels in Antalya

• € – Wolf Of The City Hotel & Spa
• €€ – Quality Gold Suite Hotel
• €€€ – Delta Hotels by Marriott Antalya Lara
• €€€€ – Hotel SU & Aqualand

Turkey Travel Guide – Hotels in Marmaris

• € – Begonville Beach Hotel
• €€ – Motto Premium Hotel&Spa
• €€€ – Elegance Hotels International Marmaris
• €€€€ – Premier Nergis Beach & SPA

Turkey Travel Guide – Hotels in Bodrum

• € – Costa Maya Bodrum
• €€ – Bodrium Hotel & Spa
• €€€ – The Marmara Bodrum
• €€€€ – Su Hotel – Bodrum

Turkey Travel Guide – Hotels in Izmir

• € – Perla Arya Hotel
• €€ – Hotel Beyond
• €€€ – Swissotel Buyuk Efes Izmir
• €€€€ – Park Inn by Radisson Izmir

Turkey Travel Guide – Transportation from the airports in Istanbul and the city centre

How to go from Istanbul Airport to the city centre

• Metro and Tram (Public Transportation)

Up until January 2023, passengers trying to get from any of the airports in Istanbul to the city centre used to be dependent on the local shuttle companies, with private transfers or taxis being the only other options. However, things have changed since the turn of the year, with the expansion of the local metro network making it now possible to use public rail transport.

Therefore, if you’re arriving at Istanbul Airport, you can hop on Line 11 (purple), which will take you all the way to the terminus in Gayrettepe. From there, you’ll transfer to Line 2 (green), heading to Yenikapi. Just three stops later, and you’ll arrive in the Taksim station, right in the bustling square. The entire journey should take approximately 40 minutes and cost 60 TL, though you’ll also need to purchase an Istanbulkart for 130 TL (more information about that on the transportation section below).

On the other hand, if your destination is Sultanahmet Square rather than Taksim Square, there are a few additional steps. Instead of getting off at Taksim, you’ll continue on Line 2 (green) for a few more stops until you reach the Vezneciler station. Once you get out and actually leave the metro station, follow the signs that say “Tramway”, which will lead you to the Laleli Istanbul U tram station. Once you’re there, board the T1 tram line (dark blue) heading to Kabatas. After just three stops, you’ll arrive at the Sultanahmet station, located right next to the iconic Blue Mosque. This additional leg of the journey will add 15 TL to your previous tally. Alternatively, you can just walk the 2 km distance between the square and the Vezneciler metro station.

Lastly, it’s worth noting that Line 11, departing from Istanbul Airport, only operates between 06h00 and midnight.

• Shuttle Buses

If you don’t mind spending a bit more for a considerably more convenient journey, you might want to go with the Havaist shuttle service. It operates 24/7, with departures taking place every 30 to 60 minutes, and it’s the most recommended way of traveling between the Istanbul Airport and the city on our Istanbul 4-day travel guide.

In total, there are 11 Havaist lines, each serving a different area of the city, which is why there are the only two relevant options for most tourists:

• HVIST-9 – Taksim: 204 TL; travel time ranging from 35 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic.
• HVIST-1 – Aksaray Metro Station (3 km from Sultanahmet Square): 204 TL; travel time ranging from 45 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic.

Tickets can be purchased with cash directly on the bus or with card at the Havaist shop located inside the airport. You can also pre-buy your ticket online.

How to go from the Sabiha Gokcen Airport to the city centre

• Metro + Marmaray Line (Public Transportation)

Just like the other airport, it’s now possible to make your way to the city centre from Sabiha Gokcen using public transportation. It may not be the easiest or fastest option… but hey, it’s doable!

So, if you’re headed to Taksim, your little adventure begins with a ride on Line 4 (pink). You’ll hop on at the airport and hop off almost at the other end, more precisely at the Ayrilik Cesmesi station. That’s where you’ll transfer to the Marmaray Line, a type of suburban train that goes through an underground tunnel beneath the Bosphorus, all the way to the Yenikapi station. From there, you’ll switch to Line 2 (green), heading to Haciosman, and after just 4 stops you’ll find yourself in Taksim. Though it may sound like a breeze, be warned his adventure can take around 1 hour and 45 minutes (or maybe even more), and the cost, including the Istanbulkart, will be approximately 190 TL.

On the other hand, if your destination is Sultanahmet, it’s a tad bit easier. The process is pretty much the same until the transfer to the Marmaray Line, but this time you’ll get off one stop earlier, at Sirkeci. From there, you just need to walk for about 15 minutes until you reach the Blue Mosque. Walk included, the whole journey shouldn’t take you more than 1 hour and 20 minutes, and the cost will be around 170 TL.

• Public IETT Buses

Operated by a public entity, the IETT buses connect the Sabiha Gokcen Airport to the suburbs of Istanbul. However, amidst the countless lines that don’t reach any tourist areas, there’s one that stands out: the SG2 route, linking the airport to Taksim Square!

These buses depart approximately every hour, operating between 06h00 and 22h00, with the journey taking nearly 2 hours (with several stops along the way). To board the bus, you’ll need to purchase an Istanbulkart and pay the journey fare currently standing at 20 TL (in addition to the 130 TL for the card itself).

• Shuttle Buses

Considered the most convenient option for those heading to Taksim, it is also possible to travel between this airport and the city centre using the Havabus shuttle service. This shuttle operates between 03h30 and 21h30, departing (usually) every 90 minutes. The ticket price is 210 TL (purchased in cash directly on the bus), and the journey takes approximately 45 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It’s the most recommended way of traveling between the Sabiha Gokcen Airport and the city on our Istanbul 4-day travel guide.

Turkey Travel Guide – Transportation and how to move around in the country

When discussing transportation in Turkey, it’s important to look into how to get around the country but also into the public transportation system in Istanbul, where you’ll spend a generous portion of your time. That means you’ll need to master the art of getting from one city to the next, but also get a good grip of Istanbul’s metro, tram and ferry networks!

As such, and for those visiting the country soon, here’s a little overview with everything you need to know about transportation in Turkey!

Istanbulkart – The ultimate Istanbul travel card

Similar to the Oyster and Leap cards, the Istanbulkart serves as your pass to access the local public transportation system. You can easily purchase this card from the yellow automatic machines at metro and train stations, as well as at the numerous kiosks scattered across the city, including at the airports. The card is also valid across all public transportation platforms, such as metro, tram, bus, ferry and on the Marmaray Line.

As a tourist, you can only buy the “anonymous” Istanbulkart, which doesn’t require any personal identification, and it costs 130 TL. The best part is that this card can be shared among a group of up to 5 people, saving everyone the hassle of buying individual cards.

Once you have your Istanbulkart, you can top it up with the desired amount of credit. Just remember to tap your card at the beginning of each journey, and the fare will be automatically deducted.

If you’re only visiting for a few hours and prefer not to get an Istanbulkart, you have the option to purchase single-use tickets for 30 TL or electronic tickets with 2, 3, 4, 5 or 10 trips, depending on your needs (for 50 TL, 80 TL, 100 TL, 120 TL and 225 TL, respectively).

Istanbul Metro – Maps, Tickets and Fares

The metro is not only the most practical and complete mode of transportation in Istanbul but also the most commonly used by locals and tourists alike. With a total of 10 different lines, it serves as a convenient way to travel throughout the city, whether you’re heading to the airport or moving between the districts of Fatih – on the southern shore of the Golden Horn – and Beyoglu and Besiktas, on the northern bank.

Using the Istanbulkart, each metro ride has a flat rate of 20 TL, regardless of distance. However, each transfer you afterwards adds up to the final cost. For instance, if you need to switch lines once during your trip, an extra 12 TL will be charged on top of the initial fare. If you make a second transfer, you’ll pay 10 TL more (on top of the base fare and the cost of the first transfer), and so on.

Operating hours for the metro start at 06h15 and end at midnight. From Friday mornings to Sunday nights, the metro operates non-stop, providing continuous service throughout the weekend.

Istanbul Tram

Just like the metro, the tram in Istanbul operates on a similar fare structure and follows comparable operating hours.

Made up of 5 distinct lines, the city’s tram is a convenient way navigating the vast district of Fatih, allowing tourists to easily travel between Sultanahmet Square, the Grand Bazaar, the Suleymaniye Mosque, the Eminonu ferry terminal and the picturesque neighborhoods of Fener and Balat.

But perhaps the most famous tram line in Istanbul awaits you on the northern bank of the Golden Horn. The T5, also known as the Heritage Tram, crosses through the vibrant Istiklal Avenue, with its red trolleys and old-world charm granting it a special place in lots of the city’s postcard pictures. Currently, tickets cost 15 TL per trip.

Istanbul Ferries

Finally, we cap off the public transportation chapter of our Istanbul 4-day travel guide with a quick look at the city’s ferry services. Each day, hundreds of ferry boats cross through the city’s waterways, connecting various ports, from the inner districts of the Golden Horn to the expansive Marmara Sea, not forgetting the lively Bosphorus, where these boats link the European and Asian sides of the gigantic metropolis. In total, we’re talking about 48 ports and over 20 routes.

The frequency of ferry departures varies depending on the popularity of the routes, but focusing on the busiest lines, a new ferry sets sail approximately every 20 minutes, with routes usually operating from 06h00 to 23h00. Similarly to the metro, service operates non-stop during weekend nights, albeit with a reduced frequency (one departure per hour) and slightly higher prices.

On the European side of Istanbul, the busiest ports include Eminonu, Kabatas, Karakoy and Besiktas. On the Asian side, Kadikoy and Uskudar stand out as the most prominent. Once again, the Istanbulkart can be used to pay for your trip, with fares varying according to the distance covered, ranging from 15 to 60 TL.

Lastly, it’s worth mentioning the delightful option of embarking on a Bosphorus Cruise. While you can find plenty of online tours at inflated prices, the truth is that the public entity responsible for managing Istanbul’s ferries actually offers two versions (a shorter and a longer one) of the cruise, both at affordable rates. For more details, be sure to check out the 4th day of any of our itineraries.

Trains in Turkey

Now delving into intercity travel, and considering that our itineraries exclusively focus on destinations located in the western half of Turkey, it is possible to complete several routes by train. Unfortunately, due to Turkey’s mountainous terrain, the rail network is much sparser in the eastern regions and along the Black Sea and Mediterranean coasts. Given Turkey’s historical role as the heart of the once-powerful Ottoman Empire, it’s no surprise that railway development has been (and remains) a priority, which is why Turkey still boasts one of the most extensive and advanced rail networks in the Middle East and along the Mediterranean, with both regular and high-speed (YHT) connections.

Overall, Turkish trains are clean, efficient and punctual, featuring dining cars and ample luggage space. Plus, passengers are typically offered air conditioning and Wi-Fi (though it can be spotty at times). On longer express train routes (i.e. not high-speed trains), sleeper trains are also available, with semi-private compartments equipped with beds and linens. To sum it up, travelers can expect a good level of service and modern facilities comparable to those found in European countries with well-developed rail systems.

For tickets, it’s best to buy in advance on the official Turkish State Railways website, where they become available about 15 to 30 days before the day of departure. The website isn’t the most intuitive or user-friendly, but with some patience, it can be navigated! Alternatively, you can purchase tickets at the station, though there’s a slight chance that trains may sell out – it’s not common, but it can happen!

Finally, and since we’re talking prices, here are the standard rates for the most popular train routes for tourists in Turkey:

• Istanbul – Ankara: 540 TL; 4h30
• Istanbul – Konya (closest station to Cappadocia): 790 TL; 5h00
• Istanbul – Izmir: 130 TL; 1h20
• Ankara – Konya: 250 TL; 2h00
• Izmir – Denizli (closest city to Pamukkale): 230 TL; 5h00

Buses in Turkey

While nothing beats trains when it comes to comfort and convenience, sometimes buses are really the only option. Especially along the Turkish Riviera, a region not covered by the vast local rail network, bus services are essential! Luckily, there are plenty of bus companies operating both regional and national routes, with Pamukkale, Anadolu or Metro Turizm standing among the most popular. Still, if you don’t want to waste time searching for specific individual routes on every single website, you can use an aggregator like Flixbus, 12GoAsia or the Turkish Obilet. Much like the trains, buses in Turkey are usually modern and comfortable, equipped with USB charging ports and reclining seats. Interestingly, Turkish buses also often provide food and beverage services, a perk not commonly found elsewhere.

As an alternative, if bus tickets are unavailable, you can look for a Dolmuş, a kind of shared minivan that connects neighboring towns at very competitive prices. Though far less comfortable, they’re a quick and budget-friendly alternative available at any time of the day. Additionally, Dolmuş vans depart from the same stations as regular buses, so there’s no need to go back and forth between different bus terminals.

As we usually do in all other travel guides, here is a brief overview of some of the most sought-after bus routes in Turkey for visitors:

• Istanbul – Ankara: from 400 TL; 6h30
• Istanbul – Goreme (Cappadocia): from 800 TL; 11h30
• Istanbul – Izmir: from 800 TL; 7h00
• Ankara – Goreme (Cappadocia): from 400 TL; 4h00
• Goreme (Cappadocia) – Antalya: from 600 TL; 8h00
• Antalya – Denizli (closest city to Pamukkale): from 250 TL; 3h00
• Antalya – Kas: from 240 TL; 3h00
• Antalya – Marmaris: from 600 TL; 5h30
• Marmaris – Izmir: from 450 TL; 3h30

Internal flights in Turkey

Finally, we cap off this chapter with the fastest but costlier option. Especially relevant if you’re looking to cover multiple regions in a short time, taking 1 or 2 domestic flights can be a great way to save some precious time. However, with high-speed trains available between Istanbul and Konya, the closest city to Cappadocia, the only leg of our itineraries where a flight might be worthwhile (still debatable) is between Cappadocia and Antalya, the main city along the Riviera.

Luckily, there are plenty of budget-friendly flight options, as Turkish Airlines and its low-cost subsidiary Pegasus Airlines (as well as the alternative carrier AJet) cover pretty much the entire country.

Without further ado, here are the most useful domestic routes for those vacationing in Turkey:

• Istanbul – Ankara: €15-€40
• Istanbul – Kayseri (nearest airport to Cappadocia): €25-€50
• Istanbul – Antalya: €17-€55
• Kayseri (nearest airport to Cappadocia) – Antalya: €20-€70

MuseumPass Türkiye E-Card – Admission prices for tourist attractions in Turkey

While visiting Turkey, one thing you’ll notice is that admission prices for tourist attractions can be ridiculously expensive, as it appears the local government has chosen to capitalize on tourist spending to make up for its economic shortages. That’s what happens when your currency devaluates nearly 1000% over a 6-year span, leaving the local authorities desperate for foreign currency. While you’ll find specific details in our itineraries (listed below), iconic sites like Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Ancient City of Ephesus, Pamukkale and the Galata Tower all have ticket prices over €25,00 (some even as high as €45,00), so if you plan to visit the major attractions, get ready for your budget to take a big blow.

As such, and though it’s still quite the investment, getting a MuseumPass Türkiye E-Card can actually same you some money down the line. Currently priced at €165,00, this pass grants access to more than 350 sites across Turkey and is valid for a period of 15 days. To illustrate, if we take our two-week itinerary as an example, the combined individual entry fees for all the attractions mentioned in the travel guide (excluding Dolmabahce Palace, Basilica Cistern, Uchisar Castle and Cleopatra’s Ancient Pool, which are not covered by the pass) total around €285,00! By choosing the pass, you’d be saving around €120,00.

On the other hand, if you’re counting on skipping some of the attractions, you can always have a look at other tourist passes.

Turkey Travel Guide – Local food and traditional dishes

Given the country’s multi-ethnic history, it’s no surprise that Turkish cuisine reflects the influence from its neighboring nations, which is why many local dishes have similar versions in places like Greece, Bulgaria, Romania and throughout the Middle East, the Balkans and the Caucasus. In fact, even if you’re not aware of it, you’re probably familiar with some of Turkey’s most iconic dishes, such as Kebab, a mix of minced meat and spices served on skewers, or Shawarma, thinly sliced meat served in a pita sandwich with sauces and condiments (the typical street food, often called Doner Kebab). However, Turkish cuisine is far more than just kebabs (far from it!), so make sure to try other delicacies while visiting!

That said, some of the country’s most iconic dishes include Kofte, lamb meatballs that can be cooked and served in many different ways; Dolma, vegetables stuffed with a fragrant mix of rice and meat; Manti, meat dumplings (similar to ravioli) served in a yogurt, butter and mint sauce; Kisir, a salad made with bulgur, tomato, garlic and parsley; or Mercimek Çorbası, a lentil soup found on virtually every restaurant in the country! Additionally, the Mezze culture is an integral part of Turkish culture, offering a variety of small appetizers meant to be shared across the table. Among the mezze, you’ll find popular treats like Hummus, Falafel, Muhammara (a red pepper and walnut paste), Babaganoush (eggplant and tahini dip), Ezme (spicy tomato salad) or grilled Halloumi cheese – just to name a few! Moreover, this culture of sharing is deeply rooted in the country’s mindset and extends to its legendary Turkish Breakfast. For the uninitiated, Turkey offers one of the most complete, delicious and healthy breakfasts you’ll ever find, far from the sugar and fat overload you’ll usually find on pancakes, waffles and bacon. Instead, Turks like to focus on cheeses, yogurt, olives, jams and eggs (trying Menemen – Turkish scrambled eggs – is a must), always accompanied by traditional bread (like Simit) and tea. All around the country, there are loads of restaurants that specialize in all-you-can-eat breakfasts, so don’t miss out on this opportunity!

On the other hand, if you’re the kind of foodie who prefers street food and quick snacks, there is a lot you can try here in Turkey. In addition to Pide and Lahmacun, often regarded as the Turkish version of pizza, make sure to try Borek, filo pastry filled with cheese or meat; Gozleme, thin savory crepes with potato, cheese and herbs; or the legendary Kumpir, a baked potato stuffed with all kinds of toppings, which has become a true icon of the country. To finish your meal on a sweet note, we couldn’t leave out some of the most iconic Turkish desserts, which have left their mark all across the Middle East, Central Asia and North Africa. While Baklava and its hundreds of variations are the most famous, other treats you shouldn’t miss include Turkish Delight, small candy made from cornstarch, sugar and rose or lemon water; Revani, small semolina cakes; Tulumba, fried dough soaked in a sugary syrup; and, of course, the famous Kunefe, a delicious dessert made with kadaif noodles soaked in sugar syrup, topped with pistachio crumble and filled with goat cheese. It might sound strange, but it’s simply extraordinary!

Turkey Travel Guide – Full itineraries for 1 and 2 weeks

So that this blog post doesn’t turn into an encyclopedia, we’ve decided to create separate articles for each itinerary.

You can check them through the following links:

• Turkey 1-Week Itinerary – What to See and Do in 8 days
• Turkey 2-Week Itinerary – Highlights of 15 Days in Turkey