I’ve been to Turkey when I was a child, but discovering it as an adult made me realise that it’s a mesmerizing destination where the past and present blend seamlessly. Nestled between Asia and Europe, Turkey offers a fusion of cultures, landscapes and experiences!

Continent

Asia & Europe

Language

Turkish

Currency

Turkish Lira = TRY
1 euro = 35 TRY
1 dollar = 32 TRY

Capital

Ankara

Habitants

85 million

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Turkey largely depends on the specific regions and activities you’re interested in. But in general, the ideal times to visit are in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:

Winter

December to March

The weather can be cold, especially in inland areas where temperatures can drop below freezing. This period is perfect for visiting indoor attractions, and experiencing Turkish culture without the crowds. 

Spring

April to June

The weather is much more pleasant, because the temperatures are between 15°C to 25°C. It’s a great period for sightseeing, exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities. There are fewer tourists compared to the summer period. 

Summer

July to August

The summer will be the peak season for tourists, leading to crowded attractions and higher prices. The temperatures are also more hot, especially in inland areas, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. 

Autumn

September to November

The weather in the autumn season is much cooler and more comfortable, with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C. It’s the perfect period for cultural and historical sightseeings, and outdoor activities as well. It’s quite similar to spring, with fewer tourists. 

Practical information

Do you need a passport?

You’ll need to have a valid passport to enter Turkey. There are a few exceptions, like Belgium, who can enter with their ID-card. Find the list here.  

Do you need a visum?

Some countries need a visum to enter Turkey (click here to find more information)

What plugs do Turkey use?

Turkey uses power plug sockets that are of type C or type F. The standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.

Can you use dataroaming in Turkey?

It’s best to buy a local sim card at the airport so you don’t get overwhelmed without internet in the big cities. Or you can buy an e-sim beforehand.

Can you use your credit card/visa everywhere?

Credit cards are widely accepted around Turkey, but if you’re going onto the unbeaten path or to the Souks, it’s best to have some money with you.

Is Turkey safe?

It depends which region you travel to, but most regions are tourist-friendly. The people were so friendly and they always went out of their way to help us. But it goes without warning that you still need to be wary, especially in the big cities. Also, know that a lot of people try to scam you in all kind of different ways. But if you are aware of your valuables and your surroundings, and you will be fine.

Is it easy to take public transportation in Turkey?

Turkey has an excellent public transportation system and is a great way to explore the country. Its buses and trains are well-connected across the whole country. So, if you don’t feel like renting a car, public transportation will normally be no problem. 

What is the budget for Turkey?

Turkey is a relatively cheap country compared to Europe. It also largely depends on what your style of travelling is, but normally you can go to Turkey on a budget. 

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