Is it safe to travel to Turkey right now? Absolutely! In fact, you can head to Turkey year-round. Turkey occupies a unique geographical location, situated partly in Europe and partly in Asia, offering a mesmerising mix of cultures, history, lively bazaars, and gastronomy. However, visiting Turkey for the first time can be overwhelming for many who don’t know where to begin, as there’s just too much to see and do here.
The following is an excellent guide listing all essential Turkey travel tips, covering everything from finances to health, dressing, and more. Read on and be better prepared for your Turkey adventure.
Visa and Entry Requirements
Visa
One of the top things to do before going to Turkey is ensure your travel documents are in order, which includes a visa. Many nationalities can enter Turkey visa-free for short stays, while others may require an e-visa applied for online. Check which is applicable for you depending on your nationality and proceed likewise.
Passport
You will need a legitimate passport typically valid for at least 150 days from your entry into the country for all inclusive holidays to Turkey, with sufficient blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
Currency and Payment
Here’s what to know about travelling to Turkey when it comes to finances, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the trip:
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Turkish Lira (TRY): The local currency here is called the Turkish Lira (TRY), and you will need enough in hand to last the entire holiday.
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Cash Payment: Most major cities accept credit and debit card payments, but it’s imperative to have cash for smaller areas, local markets without an online pay option, and tipping.
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Bargaining Rules: It is allowed and customary to bargain in Turkish markets, but you must do so politely. Never shout, threaten, or use bad language.
Dining Out in Turkey
Excited to sample authentic Turkish cuisine? Here’s what you must keep in mind when dining out in Turkey:
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Accepting Hospitality: Turkish tea or coffee is offered as a gesture of hospitality and warmth, and it is polite to accept.
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General Dining Etiquette: It is the norm to wait for the eldest person or host of the dining group to begin eating first, and then you can dig in.
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Finish Your Plate: Usually, it is respectful in Turkey when you finish our meal wholly. Leaving food on the plate may be interpreted as you not enjoying it much.
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Pace Yourself: Dining is a relaxed and social experience in Turkey, and you must enjoy it at a leisurely pace alongside pleasant conversation and savouring each dish.
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Alcohol: There are plenty of restaurants and bars in popular tourist areas that serve local and international alcoholic drinks.
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No Rush: The servers at restaurants and traditional eateries will not bring your bill until you ask for it. This practice means they wish their guests to enjoy the meal instead of feeling rushed.
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Tipping: A tip of 5 to 10% is acceptable for good service in restaurants. Some places may have it included in the bill, so check the fine print.
Shopping in Turkey
What to Buy in Turkey?
Traditional souvenirs like evil eye amulets, spices, Turkish Delight, handmade rugs and jewellery, textiles (pashminas and silk scarves), apparel, and Iznik tiles are excellent keepsakes. You can also purchase Turkish teas and coffee, hand-painted ceramics, lanterns, and high-quality leather goods. The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is inarguably the best place for all of these and more!
Key to Bargaining
From iconic markets like the Grand Bazaar to the bustling Spice Bazaar, it is customary to haggle in Turkey. However, tourists are discouraged from trying it at restaurants or regular retailers. Generally, it’s wise to start bargaining at 50 to 60% of the asking price, and work your way from there. Be friendly, but also firm enough to walk away courteously if it doesn’t work. Usually, sellers will call you back with an excellent bargain offer when you turn away.
What to Avoid in Turkey’s Bazaars?
Fake designer goods are what to watch out for in Turkey most importantly, peddled primarily at street markets in areas like Taksim Square. It is also good to avoid overpriced items in popular tourist spots, as you will normally get the same for a cheaper price elsewhere. Finally, many “handicrafts” may turn out to be factory made, so be sure to check the label clearly and purchase only genuine products.
Tips for First-Time Shoppers in Turkey:
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Carry Cash: Most sellers at local souks prefer cash, so carry enough with small bills for transactional ease.
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Shop Early: Visit markets early in the morning when it’s quieter and without the usual rush, allowing for a better chance at fantastic deals.
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Know Common Rates: Familiarise yourself with popular souvenirs and their current prices to avoid overpaying for anything.
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Prioritise Quality: While it’s great to negotiate for a lesser price, ensure the item’s quality is worth the money you’re paying for it.
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Seek Help: Ask the hotel staff or trusted locals for advice on the best markets, shops, and products, and they’ll point the right way to you.
Dress Code and Religious Sites
Modesty is Paramount
One of the topmost Turkey travel tips is to dress modestly, especially in holy sites like mosques and churches. The apparel must adequately cover your shoulders and knees. Pack layers if you’re visiting in warm weather.
Head Covering
Women must cover their heads when entering mosques and other holy places in Turkey. You can buy these from any store around you at a small cost. Some places offer scarves and head coverings for free.
Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes on walking tours, and always take your footwear off before entering someone’s house and religious places like mosques, churches, etc.
Health and Security
Is it safe to travel to Istanbul, Turkey right now? Yes! You can visit Istanbul and any other part of Turkey year-round, provided you keep all essential tips in mind. This includes prioritising health, general well-being, and safety.
Eat and Drink in Hygienic Places
If a restaurant or street–side eatery seems to have questionable hygiene and food safety, it’s best not to eat there. Likewise, most visitors prefer bottled water due to its varying mineral content. Tap water is safe, too, but it’s wise to boil it before consumption.
Overall Safety
Turkey is widely considered a safe tourist destination even for solo female Travellers. Nevertheless, it is prudent to be aware of one’s surroundings, have essential contact numbers in hand, and take other basic precautions.
Potential Scams
Beware of over-friendly locals attempting to take you on a free tour and then asking to be compensated for it later. You may also come across taxi drivers that overcharge or take longer routes, restaurant menus that do not mention pricing clearly, and other scams. It’s best to decline all unsolicited services, regardless of how genuine they may seem.
Crowded Areas
It’s recommended to keep your backpack or travel purse zipped and in front of you, especially in heavily crowded places with chances of pickpocketing. Many use a sturdy money belt for greater security.
Vaccinations
Ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date and get any additional ones essential before travelling to Turkey. Typically, these include varicella (chickenpox), DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis), Hepatitis A and B, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), Rabies, and Typhoid.
Bonus Turkey Travel Tips:
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Pack Light: It’s sensible to pack layers for your Turkey trip, as temperatures are generally hot in the mornings and cool in the evenings.
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Ensure Connectivity: Get a local SIM card for better signal to keep in touch with your hotel manager, travel companions, or family back home. Local network connectivity is also handy in case of emergencies.
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Use Public Transport: Albeit fairly crowded, buses, trams, and trains are affordable and safe in Turkey. You can get contactless rechargeable cards like the Istanbul Kart for use across metro, funiculars, buses, trams, and ferries.
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Respect Local Customs: Turkish people are renowned for their warmth, friendly nature, and incredible hospitality. Be polite and match their kindness by respecting all local customs, culture, and laws.
Remember, visiting Turkey will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, thanks to its rich history, vibrant culture, and unforgettable gastronomy. Explore and experience as much of it as you can during your first trip, navigating its charming cobblestone streets with ease. Visit a couple of times and become a seasoned traveller in no time.
Plan your holiday to Turkey today and embrace the unparalleled beauty of this enigmatic country!
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