Turkey: Explore Ancient Cities, Stunning Landscapes, and Timeless Traditions

Your Guide to the

Land of Four Seasons

Looking for the perfect travel guide to Türkiye? Look no further than Jenn & Leon Travel! We've spent over 3 months exploring this beautiful country, and we're here to share everything we know with you. From our trips to Istanbul, Trabzon, Uzungöl, and Gündoğan, we have put together our top destinations that are a MUST SEE in the Land of the Four Seasons.

We also share interesting facts, our YouTube videos, and important information you need to know before you go. So whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, our Türkiye travel guide has everything you need to plan your perfect trip.

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A man in casual attire stands by a fountain, with the architectural brilliance of the Hagia Sophia and its minarets in the background under a clear blue sky.

The image showcases the historic Hagia Sophia, one of the world's most iconic landmarks, with its large central dome and minarets standing proudly under a clear blue sky. Lush greenery and palm trees create a vibrant foreground that hints at its rich history.

A smiling man and woman pose in front of the historic Galata Tower in Istanbul. The woman wears a sun hat and a gray jacket, while the man sports a cap with sunglasses around his neck. Surrounded by lush greenery and city buildings, the scene captures Istanbul's vibrant charm.

The iconic tower, reminiscent of historic landmarks from Constantinople, boasts a conical roof and multiple arched windows. Set against a clear blue sky, visitors on the balcony near the top are seen enjoying the breathtaking view.

Through a blue stained glass window shaped like a butterfly, the scenic waterfront of Istanbul unfolds. Ornate white stone arches and pillars evoke the grandeur of Dolmabahçe Palace, where people stroll beneath the bright blue sky, echoing whispers of Ottoman history.

The image showcases an ornate stone gate with intricate carvings and towering pillars, reminiscent of the Ottoman Empire, under a bright blue sky. The sun is partially obscured by clouds, casting soft light on the gate's detailed architecture. A chain barrier is in the foreground.

The ornate interior of Dolmabahçe Palace features grand marble columns, a large chandelier, intricate ceiling frescoes, and a red carpeted walkway. This historic building in Turkey showcases classical designs and opulent decor, echoing its significance during the era of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

High above a lush green valley, with a breathtaking view of the village and mountain lake of Uzungöl in Trabzon Province, a person swings amidst the grandeur of forested mountains under a cloudy sky.

A man and a woman wearing sunglasses smile for a selfie in front of a serene lake that mirrors the surrounding forests, with snow-dusted mountains in the backdrop. The sky is overcast, adding a calm ambiance to this tranquil natural environment.

A serene lake surrounded by snow-dusted mountains and evergreen trees offers a perfect peaceful getaway. A wooden walkway with a colorful "Uzungöl" sign and heart leads toward a distant village nestled in the valley under the overcast sky, showcasing the area's natural beauty.

Scenic view of a seaside resort in a charming Turkish town, with a wooden pier extending to a circular platform over clear blue water, dotted with sun loungers and umbrellas. Surrounded by hills and white buildings under a clear sky, it's an ideal tourist destination framed by lush greenery.

A woman in sunglasses and a black dress sits on a stone bench between two palm trees, enjoying the picturesque views of a blue lake and distant mountains under a clear sky, reminiscent of the serene beauty found on the Bodrum Peninsula.

Outdoor restaurant with wicker chairs and white tables on a wooden deck, nestled in a luxury resort. A large white canopy overhead provides shade, while palm plants decorate the space. With bright blue skies and distant hills as a backdrop, it's an idyllic spot for sea dining.

At Café Dora, a person in a pink shirt cuddles a black and brown puppy. The cozy street on Vodina Caddesi is lined with colorful buildings and plants, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere of this charming corner café.

A colorful Turkish cafe, Café Dora, with an outdoor seating area. A person sits at a table with a traditional samovar for tea and Turkish coffee. Menus are displayed outside, and a minaret is visible in the background. The scene captures a lively street corner on a sunny day.

Three people are sitting at a table in a cozy setting with brick walls and plants. A woman celebrates her birthday with a cake and lit candle before her. Two men accompany her, one standing behind, smiling warmly, bringing warmth to this charming moment in Istanbul.

From Çamlıca Hill, a scenic view of Istanbul unfolds with densely packed buildings and Bosporus views in the distance, framed by pine tree branches. The cityscape beautifully blends urban architecture with natural elements.

At the vibrant Istanbul outdoor market near the Fatih Mosque, a stall brims with colorful dried peppers, spices, and various textiles displayed on red tablecloths. A vendor sits behind the tables as clothes hang overhead under a canopy at this bustling Wednesday market.

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Our top recommended places

Colorful two-story café with outdoor plants and a street vendor cart in front, under a clear sky in a cobblestone alley.

In Istanbul, a person stands in front of an ornate historic building with intricately carved stone columns and detailed decorative elements. The clear blue sky enhances the grandeur of the Turkish architecture.

A historic stone tower with a conical roof stands under Istanbul's clear blue sky. Visitors gather on the viewing platform near the top. The structure boasts arched windows and intricate stonework, while trees are partially visible on the left side.

Our Interactive Map & Guide to Türkiye

Check out all of the places we visited in Türkiye courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more.

Wanderlog is a free travel planning app that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It saves time and is super easy to use!

If you see nothing here, please refresh the page

Find the Best Deals on Top Hotels in Turkey

Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels here, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com.

Powered by Stay22, our map allows you to zoom easily, providing a comprehensive view and so you can identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination.

Interesting Facts

Here are 16 interesting facts about Türkiye. Some may just surprise you!

1. Türkiye is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, making it a transcontinental country spanning two continents. It is the only country in the world that occupies two continents.

2. As of June 21, 2023, the population of Türkiye is estimated to be 87,025,488 people. This makes Türkiye the 17th most populous country in the world. The population density of Türkiye is 110 people per square kilometer. The majority of the population is Turkish, followed by Kurds, Arabs, and Armenians.

3. Istanbul, the largest city in Türkiye, was once known as Constantinople and served as the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. It is one of the few cities in the world to have been a capital for multiple empires.

4. Turkish cuisine is renowned for its diversity and flavors. Popular dishes include kebabs, baklava, Turkish delight, and Turkish tea. Turkish cuisine has been influenced by various cultures throughout history.

5. Mount Ararat, located in eastern Türkiye, is the highest peak in the country and is believed to be the final resting place of Noah's Ark, according to the Bible.

6. Türkiye is home to many ancient historical sites, including Ephesus, Troy, and Hierapolis. These sites attract millions of tourists each year who come to explore the rich history and archaeological treasures.

7. The city of Troy, located in western Türkiye, is famous for the Trojan War described in Homer's epic, the Iliad. The archaeological site of Troy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

8. Türkiye is known for its beautiful coastline along the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Black Seas. It boasts numerous pristine beaches, resorts, and turquoise waters, attracting tourists from around the world.

9. Whirling Dervishes, a form of Sufi dance, originated in Türkiye. It is a mesmerizing and spiritual dance performance that is recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO.

10. Turkish coffee is a traditional drink with a unique brewing method. It is known for its strong flavor and is typically served with a side of Turkish delight.

11. Türkiye has a rich tradition of arts and crafts. Turkish carpets, ceramics, calligraphy, and miniature paintings are highly regarded and reflect the country's cultural heritage.

12. Turkish soap operas, known as "dizi," have gained immense popularity not only in Türkiye but also in many countries around the world. These TV dramas have helped promote Turkish culture globally.

13. The city of Cappadocia in central Türkiye is famous for its otherworldly landscape, with surreal rock formations and ancient cave dwellings. It is a popular destination for hot air balloon rides and cave exploration.

14. Türkiye is home to the world's largest and oldest covered market, the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul.

15. Türkiye is the world's largest exporter of hazelnuts.

16. Türkiye is a member of NATO, the G20, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

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Things to Know

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Internet, SIM's, Dial Code & Plug Sockets

The average download speed in Turkey is around 26 Mbps, which is comparable to the average download speed in other European countries.

However, the actual speed you experience may vary depending on your location and the time of day. We found it to be intermittent at times, especially during bad weather. If you are planning to work online while here, a SIM card is essential.

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Cell connectivity in Türkiye is generally good, with 4G coverage available in most major cities and towns.

Purchasing a prepaid SIM card: There are three main mobile network operators in Türkiye: Turkcell, Vodafone, and Turk Telekom. All three operators offer prepaid SIM cards. You can purchase a SIM card at most convenience stores and airports.

Please note that as a tourist your passport will be required for this, specifically your visa details, and there is also a minimum charge for tourists.

Use Wi-Fi when available: There are many Wi-Fi hotspots available in Türkiye, so be sure to use them when you can. This will save you data and money.

Be aware of roaming charges: If you are using a non-Turkish SIM card, you may be charged roaming charges. Be sure to check with your carrier to see if there are any roaming charges before you use your phone in Türkiye.

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⪢ Türkiye Dial Code

The Türkiye dial code is +90. You'll need this to make a call to Türkiye from another country. Turkish numbers are usually 10 digits, which includes a 3 digit area code.

⪢ Plug Sockets in Turkiye

In Türkiye, the primary plug socket type is F. This plug features two round prongs with grounding clips on either side of the base. It's important to note that Türkiye uses a different electrical standard than some countries. The voltage is 220 volts (V) with a frequency of 50 Hertz (Hz), compared to the 110V and 60Hz used in places like the United States and Canada.

Chart showing different plug socket types by country. Types include E (Europe, Russia), F (FRA, BEL, POL), D (India), I (AUS, ARG, CHN), J (SUI, LIE), A, B (USA, MEX, CAN), G (UK, IRL), C (Europe, South America), H (Israel), L (Italy), and K (Denmark).

While the F type is most common, you might occasionally encounter type C sockets as well. These have two round prongs without the grounding clips.

If you're traveling to Türkiye, it's recommended to pack a universal travel adapter. This will ensure compatibility with both F and C plugs.

However, a travel adapter only addresses the physical plug shape. It's crucial to check the label on your electronic devices to see if they're dual voltage (compatible with both 110V and 220V).

If your appliance isn't dual voltage, you'll need a voltage converter in addition to the adapter to safely use it in Türkiye.

Local Cuisine

Turkish cuisine is full of diverse and delicious flavors that have been influenced by the many different cultures that have inhabited Turkey over the centuries, blending Turkic, Ottoman, Persian, Arab, Greek, and Balkan traditions. Turkish cuisine is known for its use of spices, such as cumin, cinnamon, and paprika. These spices give Turkish dishes their unique flavor and aroma. Turkish cuisine is a delicious and diverse cuisine that is sure to please everyone!

⪢ Kebabs: Kebabs are a quintessential part of Turkish cuisine. They come in various forms, such as döner kebab (thinly sliced meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie), şiş kebab (marinated meat on skewers), and köfte (grilled meatballs).

⪢ Mezze: Mezze refers to a selection of small dishes served as appetizers or snacks. They can include items like hummus, tabbouleh, dolma (stuffed grape leaves), cacık (yogurt and cucumber dip), and various cheese and olive varieties.

⪢ Börek: Börek are filled pastries made with thin layers of dough. They can be filled with cheese, spinach, meat, or potatoes, among other options.

⪢ Turkish Delight (Lokum): Turkish delight is a traditional sweet treat made from sugar, starch, water, and various flavors like rosewater, lemon, or pistachio. It is often dusted with powdered sugar or coconut.

⪢ Baklava: Baklava is a famous Turkish dessert made with layers of thin pastry, nuts (usually pistachios or walnuts), and sweet syrup or honey.

⪢ Pide & Lahmacun: Pide is a type of Turkish flatbread similar to pizza. It is topped with various ingredients such as minced meat, cheese, vegetables, and eggs. Also known as Turkish pizza, lahmacun is a thin, round dough topped with minced meat, vegetables, and spices.

⪢ Köfte (pronounced "kofteh"): Köfte is one of the most popular and beloved dishes in Turkish cuisine. Köfte refers to various types of seasoned meatballs or meat patties made from ground meat, which is usually beef, lamb, or a combination of both. However, variations using chicken or other meats can also be found. The term "köfte" comes from the Persian word "kufteh," meaning pounded or minced meat.

⪢ Turkish Breakfast (Kahvaltı): Turkish breakfasts are hearty and often consist of a variety of cheeses, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, jams, honey, eggs, and freshly baked bread.

⪢ Seafood: Turkey has a long coastline, and seafood plays a significant role in the cuisine. Grilled fish, especially in coastal areas, is a popular dish.

⪢ Manti: Manti are small dumplings filled with spiced meat and served with yogurt and garlic sauce. They are similar to dumplings found in other Central Asian cuisines.

⪢ Turkish Tea & Coffee (Türk Kahvesi): Turkish coffee is a strong, unfiltered coffee served in small cups. It is often accompanied by a small glass of water and a piece of Turkish delight. Turkish Tea is also widely popular and is served with almost every dish in cafes and restaurants, often complimentary too.

⪢ Sweets and Desserts: In addition to baklava and Turkish delight, Turkish cuisine offers a wide array of sweet treats like revani (semolina cake), şekerpare (sweet cookies), and güllaç (a dessert made with starch sheets, milk, and rosewater).

Turkish cuisine varies regionally, with each area having its own specialties and local ingredients. From street food to elaborate feasts, Turkish cuisine offers a delightful array of flavors and experiences. When visiting Türkiye, exploring its diverse culinary offerings is an essential part of experiencing the country's vibrant culture.

Culture & Customs

Turkish culture is rich and diverse, blending elements from various historical influences, including Turkic, Ottoman, Byzantine, and Islamic traditions.

The customs and traditions in Türkiye have been shaped by its unique geography, being the gateway between Europe and Asia. So influential has it been, that the region is also known as the 'cradle of civilization'.

Here are some key aspects of Turkish culture and customs:

⪢ Tipping: Tipping is customary in Türkiye, and in restaurants it is common to leave a 10-15% tip if the service charge is not included. It is also customary to tip hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi drivers based on your level of satisfaction.

⪢ Bargaining: Bargaining is common in markets and bazaars in Türkiye. It is part of the culture, so feel free to negotiate prices, especially when shopping for souvenirs or in local markets. However, it may not be appropriate in larger stores or restaurants.

⪢ Arts & Handicrafts: Türkiye has a rich tradition of arts and handicrafts, including ceramics, carpets, kilims, calligraphy, pottery, and traditional music. Turkish rugs and carpets are particularly famous for their intricate designs and craftsmanship.

⪢ Religion: Islam is the predominant religion in Türkiye, and it influences many aspects of daily life. Religious practices, such as daily prayers, fasting during Ramadan, and celebrating religious holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, are observed by a large portion of the population.

⪢ Family Values: Family plays a central role in Turkish society. Family bonds are strong, and family gatherings are frequent and significant events. Respect for elders and care for younger family members are important values.

⪢ Hospitality: Turkish people are known for their warm hospitality. Guests are highly valued, and it is customary to offer guests tea or coffee as a sign of welcome.

⪢ Traditional Clothing: While modern clothing is prevalent in urban areas, you can still find traditional clothing in rural regions and during cultural festivals. The most iconic traditional Turkish clothing for men is the "fes" hat and "caftan," while women may wear the "yashmak" (veil) and "şalvar" (baggy trousers).

⪢ Dress Code: There is no official dress code in Türkiye, but it is generally considered polite to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or conservative areas. This means covering your shoulders and knees, and avoiding revealing clothing.

In the coastal areas, you can get away with wearing more casual clothing, such as shorts and t-shirts. However, it is still a good idea to be respectful of local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

For women, cover your shoulders and knees and avoid wearing revealing clothing, such as short skirts, shorts, or tank tops. For men, wear long pants and a shirt. You can also wear shorts and a t-shirt, but be sure to cover your shoulders. Avoid wearing tank tops or other revealing clothing.

⪢ Gestures and Etiquette: Certain gestures and customs are essential to know when interacting in Turkish culture. For example, remove your shoes when entering someone's home, avoid pointing the sole of your foot at someone, and use your right hand for greetings and eating.

⪢Turkish Baths (Hamams): Hamams are a traditional part of Turkish culture, where people go to cleanse themselves and socialize. They have a long history dating back to Ottoman times.

⪢ Festivals: Türkiyehosts various festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating its cultural traditions, arts, and historical heritage. Here are some major festivals and events in Türkiye:

International Istanbul Music Festival: Organized in June by the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts, the International Istanbul Music Festival features classical music performances by renowned artists and orchestras from Türkiye and abroad. The festival takes place in various historical venues across Istanbul. Whirling Dervishes Festival: The Whirling Dervishes Festival is a series of performances celebrating the spiritual Sufi dance of the Mevlevi Order. It takes place in Konya, the birthplace of the famous poet Rumi, during December, with mesmerizing ceremonies and music. International Antalya Film Festival: Held annually in Antalya in October, the International Antalya Film Festival is one of the most significant film festivals in Türkiye. It showcases a wide range of international and Turkish films, attracting filmmakers, actors, and film enthusiasts. Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival: The Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival takes place in the ancient Aspendos Theater near Antalya. It features performances by opera companies, ballet troupes, and orchestras from Türkiye and around the world, highlighting classical and contemporary works. International Istanbul Jazz Festival: Organized in July by the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts, the International Istanbul Jazz Festival brings together jazz musicians from Türkiye and abroad. The festival hosts a variety of concerts, from traditional jazz to experimental performances, in various venues across Istanbul. International Izmir Festival: The International Izmir Festival is a month-long cultural event held in Izmir during June and July. It encompasses a wide range of artistic disciplines, including music, dance, theater, and visual arts, with performances by both local and international artists. Camel Wrestling Festival: Taking place in various locations across Turkey during winter months, the Camel Wrestling Festival is a unique and lively event where decorated camels compete in wrestling matches. It is a traditional Turkish sport and a celebration of local culture. International Istanbul Biennial: The International Istanbul Biennial is an art exhibition that takes place every two years, featuring contemporary artworks by international and Turkish artists. It explores various themes and takes over different venues throughout the city. Ephesus Festival: The Ephesus Festival is an annual summer event held in the ancient city of Ephesus. It presents classical music concerts, opera performances, and theatrical shows, often utilizing the stunning backdrop of the historical site.

It's essential to be respectful of local customs and traditions while visiting Türkiye. Learning a few basic phrases in Turkish and showing interest in the local culture can go a long way in building positive interactions with the people you meet.

Currency

The Turkish currency is the Turkish lira (TL). It is subdivided into 100 kuruş. The symbol for the Turkish lira is ₺. The Turkish lira was introduced in 1923, after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire.

The first Turkish lira was divided into 1000 kuruş. In 2005, the Turkish lira was revalued and the new lira was divided into 100 new kuruş. The "new" marking was removed from the currency in 2009.The Turkish lira is not a hard currency, and its value has fluctuated in recent years due to ongoing economic issues. Convert your currency here.

⪢ Denominations

The Turkish lira is available in both coins and banknotes. Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 kuruş (subunits of the lira) and 1 lira. Banknotes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 lira.

⪢ Subunits

The subunit of the Turkish lira is called "kuruş." One lira is equal to 100 kuruş.

⪢ Exchange Rate

The exchange rate of the Turkish lira can fluctuate against other currencies. It's essential to check the current exchange rate if you are planning to convert your currency to Turkish lira.

⪢ Usage and Acceptance

The Turkish lira is used throughout Türkiye for all types of transactions. It is widely accepted in various establishments, including shops, restaurants, hotels, and tourist attractions. Major credit cards are also commonly accepted in most places.

⪢ Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, exchange offices, and some hotels in Türkiye. It's advisable to compare rates and fees to get the best deal when exchanging currency.

⪢ ATMs

ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas, and they usually dispense Turkish lira. However, do keep in mind that foreign cards may incur transaction fees when withdrawing cash from ATMs abroad.

⪢ Currencies of Northern Cyprus

In Northern Cyprus, which is a self-declared state recognized only by Türkiye, the official currency is also the Turkish lira. However, the Republic of Cyprus (southern part) uses the euro as its currency.

Health & Safety

Ensure you have adequate travel insurance and consult with a healthcare professional about any necessary vaccinations before your trip. Like any travel destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions. While Türkiye is generally a safe country for tourists, in major areas, such as Istanbul, try to avoid staying out past 10pm and be wary of pickpockets and scams.

⪢ Safety & Security

Like in any destination, it's essential to stay vigilant and exercise common sense regarding personal safety. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas and be cautious when using public transportation. It's also advisable to avoid political gatherings or protests.

⪢ Emergency Numbers

In Türkiye dial 112 for medical emergencies and 155 for police assistance. This number can be dialed from mobile phones and is accessible nationwide. When dialing 112, your call will be connected to the emergency services, including police, medical services, and fire department, depending on the nature of the emergency.

⪢ Health & Vaccinations

Check with your healthcare provider or travel clinic to ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations. Depending on your travel plans and medical history, additional vaccinations or preventive medications may be recommended, such as Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, typhoid, and tetanus.

⪢ Travelers Diarrhea

Traveler's diarrhea is a common concern for travelers. To reduce the risk, avoid consuming raw or undercooked food, drink bottled or boiled water, and use hand sanitizers or wash hands frequently.

⪢ Food & Water

While Turkish cuisine is delicious, be cautious about consuming food and water from unreliable sources. Stick to bottled water, avoid ice in drinks from unknown sources, and eat at reputable restaurants. Washing hands regularly is also essential for preventing foodborne illnesses. It is also recommended that you avoid using tap water to brush your teeth.

⪢ Medical Facilities

Major cities in Türkiye have modern medical facilities and well-trained healthcare professionals. However, if you are traveling to remote or rural areas, medical facilities may be limited. Healthcare is generally free under the Turkish public health system, however, you are required to make out-of-pocket payments for certain medications and consultations even in state hospitals. Consider purchasing travel insurance that includes medical coverage to ensure you are adequately protected.

⪢ Driving & Road Safety

Driving in Turkey can be an exhilarating experience, but it also comes with its challenges. You drive on the right side of the road, and a valid international driver's license or a translated version of your license is required. Road conditions vary from well-maintained highways to narrower roads in rural areas. Traffic can be heavy in major cities, so patience is key. Obey traffic rules, signs, and speed limits, and use GPS navigation for guidance.

Toll roads are common, and parking regulations should be followed to avoid fines. Fuel stations are readily available, and it's essential to practice defensive driving and be cautious of hazards. Ensure that all passengers wear seat belts, and children should be secured in appropriate car seats or restraints. By familiarizing yourself with Turkish traffic rules, staying alert, and following safe driving practices, you can navigate Türkiye's roads with confidence.

Please note that driving conditions can vary, and it's advisable to research specific routes, stay informed about any travel advisories, and exercise caution while driving in Türkiye.

Information

POPULATION

87 million

CAPITAL

Ankara (5.7 million)

CURRENCY

Turkish Lira (TRY)

DRIVING

Right Side

TIME ZONE

TUR (GMT +3)

MEASUREMENTS

Standard Metric

Language

The language spoken in Türkiye is Turkish, but there are also over 30 other languages spoken in the country.

Turkish is a member of the Turkic language family, which is part of the larger Altaic language family, although the Altaic language family's validity is a subject of ongoing linguistic debate.

⪢ Alphabet

Turkish uses the Latin alphabet, which was adopted in 1928 during the language reform initiated by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Türkiye. Prior to the reform, Turkish was written in the Arabic script.

⪢ Phonetics & Pronunciation

Turkish has a phonetic writing system, meaning that words are generally pronounced as they are written. Each letter in the alphabet represents one sound, and there are no silent letters.

⪢ Vowel Harmony

Turkish has a unique feature called "vowel harmony," which means that the vowels in a word are chosen in a way that they harmonize with each other. This adds regularity and consistency to the language.

⪢ Agglutinative Language

Turkish is an agglutinative language, which means that suffixes are added to the root of words to indicate grammatical meaning, tense, aspect, mood, possession, and other grammatical features. This allows for the formation of complex words and sentences.

⪢ Word Order

Turkish typically follows a subject-object-verb (SOV) word order, which is different from English's subject-verb-object (SVO) word order. However, word order can be relatively flexible due to the rich system of suffixes.

⪢ Gender Neutrality

Turkish is a gender-neutral language, meaning that nouns and pronouns do not have grammatical gender distinctions like in some other languages. For example, "he," "she," and "it" are all represented by the same pronoun: "o."

⪢ Politeness

Turkish has a system of politeness levels, with different forms of pronouns and verb conjugations used to address people of different ages or social positions with varying degrees of respect.

⪢ Common Phrases

Some common Turkish phrases you may encounter are:
- Merhaba: Hello
- Teşekkür ederim: Thank you
- Evet: Yes
- Hayır: No
- Lütfen: Please
- Nasılsınız?: How are you?

Turkish is spoken not only in Türkiye but also in parts of neighboring countries and communities around the world due to historical migrations and diaspora. It is the native language of the vast majority of Türkiye's population and serves as the primary medium of communication in daily life, education, media, and government affairs.

Places to Visit

Discover

Türkiye offers a diverse range of must-see destinations that showcase its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Start your journey in Istanbul, where the iconic landmarks of Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar await.

Head to Cappadocia for its surreal landscapes and cave dwellings, and take a hot air balloon ride for a magical experience. Explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus and marvel at the cascading terraces of Pamukkale.

Visit the beautiful coastal city of Antalya, discover the ancient history of Troy, and soak up the sun in Bodrum. Pay homage at the Gallipoli Peninsula, witness the majestic Mount Ararat, and explore the archaeological sites of Pergamon and Ani. These are just a few highlights that showcase the diverse beauty and historical significance of Türkiye.

Transportation

Türkiye has an extensive and affordable transportation network, including buses, trains, domestic flights, and taxis.

It is advisable to research and plan your transportation options based on your itinerary and preferences. In Istanbul, the Istanbul Kart transport card is a necessity for using buses, trams, trains and ferries.

Here are some key points about transportation in the country:

⪢ Air Travel: Türkiye has a well-developed air transportation system, with several international airports and a number of domestic airports. Turkish Airlines is the national airline of Turkey, and it offers flights to many destinations around the world.

⪢ Intercity Bus Services: Buses are a popular way to travel within Türkiye. There are a number of private bus companies that offer services between cities and towns. Buses are generally comfortable and affordable.

⪢ Rail Travel: Türkiye has a national railway system, but it is not as well-developed as the air or bus transportation systems. Trains are a good option for traveling between major cities, but they may not be the best option for traveling to smaller towns or villages.

⪢ Walking: Walking is a great way to get around in many parts of Türkiye. The weather is generally mild, and most areas are pedestrian-friendly.

⪢ Ferries: Ferries are a popular way to travel between the Turkish mainland and the surrounding islands. There are a number of ferry companies that offer services to many different destinations. Ferries are a good option for those who want to see the coastline of Türkiye.

⪢ Dolmus: Dolmuses are small, shared taxis that are a popular way to get around in smaller towns and villages. Dolmuses are generally very affordable, but they can be crowded.

⪢ Taxis: Taxis are a convenient way to get around in major cities. Taxis are generally metered, but it is a good idea to agree on a price before you get in the taxi. Turkish cab drivers are renowned for inflating prices for tourists. Uber is available in Istanbul, Bodrum, Marmaris & Cesme.

It's important to note that transportation options may vary depending on the region and city you are in. It's advisable to check local transportation services, schedules, and fares in advance to plan your travels effectively.

Visa Requirements

As with many other countries, Visa requirements for Türkiye vary depending on the nationality of the visitor.

UK, US & Canadian citizens are typically allowed to stay in Türkiye for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa for tourism and certain other purposes as part of the visa exemption program.

For longer stays or purposes like work or study, a visa might be required.

⪢ Visa Exemptions: Citizens of certain countries are exempt from obtaining a visa for tourism purposes and can enter Türkiye with a valid passport for specified durations. These durations vary depending on the country of citizenship.

For example, citizens of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and many European countries can enter Türkiye for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.

⪢ E-Visa: For those who are not eligible for visa exemption, Türkiye offers an electronic visa (e-visa) system that allows travelers to obtain a visa online before their arrival. The e-visa is available for various purposes, including tourism, business, and medical treatment. The application process is straightforward, and the visa is usually issued within a short period.

⪢ Visa-on-Arrival: Some nationalities have the option of obtaining a visa upon arrival at certain entry points in Türkiye. However, it is generally recommended to obtain a visa in advance to avoid any potential complications or delays.

⪢ Consular Visa: In some cases, travelers may need to apply for a visa at a Turkish embassy or consulate in their home country before their trip. This requirement may apply to those who are not eligible for visa exemption or e-visa and wish to stay in Türkiye for an extended period or for purposes such as work, study, or long-term residency.

⪢ Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in Türkiye. Make sure to check your passport's expiration date and renew it if necessary.

⪢ Visa Extensions: If you wish to stay in Türkiye beyond the allowed visa duration, you may need to apply for a visa extension or a residence permit. It is important to inquire about the requirements and procedures for extending your stay well in advance.

Please note that this information is subject to change at any time and has been obtained through research. We always recommended you visit the official website of the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the nearest Turkish embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information regarding visa requirements and application processes.

Weather & Climate

Türkiye has a diverse climate, with four distinct seasons. The coastal areas have a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The central plateau has a continental climate, with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. The Black Sea coast has a humid subtropical climate, with warm, wet summers and cool, wet winters. The southeastern region has a semi-arid climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, dry winters.

The average temperature in Türkiye varies depending on the region.

⪢ Coastal Regions

In the coastal areas, the average temperature in July is around 28°C (82°F), and the average temperature in January is around 12°C (54°F).

⪢ Central Regions

In the central plateau, the average temperature in July is around 24°C (75°F), and the average temperature in January is around -2°C (28°F)

⪢ Black Sea Regions

In the Black Sea coast, the average temperature in July is around 26°C (79°F), and the average temperature in January is around 8°C (46°F).

⪢ Southern Regions

In the southeastern region, the average temperature in July is around 32°C (90°F), and the average temperature in January is around 7°C (45°F).

The wettest months in Türkiye are typically November to March. The driest months are typically July and August.

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YOUTUBE

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