TURKEY TRAVEL GUIDE
Turkey
From the Bosphorus to fairy chimneys and turquoise coves.
Turkey combines energetic cities, ancient sites, exceptional landscapes and one of the eastern Mediterranean’s most varied cuisines. For a first trip, combine Istanbul and Cappadocia with either the Aegean or Mediterranean coast.
April–June and September–October
12–16 days
Turkish lira
112
A first-time itinerary
Days 1–4: Istanbul
Explore Sultanahmet’s Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapı Palace, then Galata, Karaköy and a Bosphorus ferry. Cross to Kadıköy on the Asian side for relaxed evenings and excellent food.
Days 5–7: Cappadocia
Base yourself around Göreme for underground cities, Ihlara Valley and sunset viewpoints. Balloon flights depend on weather, so allow at least two mornings.
Days 8–12: Coast
Choose İzmir, Ephesus and Alaçatı on the Aegean, or Antalya, Kaş and the Lycian coast. Both work best as an unhurried road trip.
CAPPADOCIA
Beyond the balloon flight
Walk Rose Valley, Red Valley and Love Valley early, carrying water and wearing sturdy shoes. Cave hotels are atmospheric, but location, heating and ventilation vary considerably — study recent reviews.
Planning tip: Most flights use Kayseri or Nevşehir. Arrange the hotel transfer in advance, especially for late arrivals.
AEGEAN & RIVIERA
A coast with character
Kaş is ideal for boat days, small beaches and trips to Kekova. Antalya combines an old town, museums and useful transport links. On the Aegean, add Ephesus, Şirince and Alaçatı. In midsummer, sightsee early and late in the day.
Use established rental companies, photograph existing damage and ask how tolls are charged. Within cities, metro, tram, ferries and intercity buses are usually easier.
Food, restaurants & affordable shopping
What to try
Turkish breakfast, menemen, pide, lahmacun, mantı, köfte, Bosphorus fish and regional meze. Lokantas displaying their daily dishes are often both affordable and authentic.
Supermarkets
BİM, A101 and ŞOK are budget chains. Migros and CarrefourSA carry a broader range. Weekly markets are excellent for fruit, vegetables, cheese and olives.
Choosing restaurants
Check menus and prices before ordering. In highly touristed areas, ask about bread, water and service charges. Places one or two streets away are often better value.
Budget, transport & safety
Prices can change quickly because of inflation. A rough daily guide excluding flights: budget €60–100, comfortable €120–200 and upscale €250+ per person. Recheck current prices shortly before travelling.
In Istanbul, use the reloadable Istanbulkart for public transport. Take taxis only with the meter running and follow the route in a map app. Domestic flights and comfortable coaches connect regions; rail does not suit every itinerary.
Tourism areas are generally straightforward to visit, but use normal city precautions: keep valuables secured, watch for pickpockets in crowds and never leave drinks unattended. Avoid political demonstrations and check current official travel advice.
Official information: Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs · UK travel advice