How to plan a trip to Turkey

Dre Roelandt

written by
Dre Roelandt

updated 12.02.2025

Where should you go? When’s the best time to visit? How do you get around? This guide covers everything you need to know—picking the right season, finding great places to stay, and making the most of Turkey’s food, history, and culture. Here’s how to plan a trip to Turkey, one step at a time.

Step 1: Define your trip's parameters

When to do this: 4-6 months before (6+ months if traveling June-August)

Planning a trip to Turkey can feel like a lot, but breaking it down into small steps makes it much easier. I would start by making a simple planning calendar and assign yourself one task per week. This will give you time to research without getting overwhelmed. Another great way to stay organized is by keeping a Google Doc or notebook with separate sections for transportation, accommodation, activities, and budget and filling it gradually.

When's the best time to visit Turkey?

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are really the best times to visit. The weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller, and it’s nice to visit Turkey’s cities and historical sites without extreme temperatures or long lines. In April, Istanbul bursts with tulips, while October in Cappadocia brings some of the best scenery of the year. If you're heading to the coast, places like Antalya and Bodrum stay warm well into November.

What season should you avoid in Turkey?

July and August can be tough months to visit. Temperatures inland, especially at historical sites like Ephesus, can exceed 104°F ( 40°C), and daytime sightseeing can be uncomfortable. Coastal areas get packed with both international and local tourists, which in turn leads to higher prices and limited accommodation options. Even in Istanbul, the combination of heat and peak-season crowds at the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque can make visiting feel overwhelming.

Goreme in Turkey © AdobeStock

Goreme in Turkey © AdobeStock

How much does a trip to Turkey usually cost?

Turkey can fit a range of budgets. Istanbul and coastal resort towns are generally more expensive, while inland cities like Konya and Kayseri tend to be more affordable. Cappadocia falls somewhere in between.

  • Budget (800-1200 TRY / $25-40 per day): This includes budget guesthouses or hostels, meals at local lokantas (simple Turkish restaurants), and public transportation. A good tip: hotels in residential areas just outside city centers tend to offer better rates.
  • Mid-range (1500-3000 TRY / $50-100 per day): Expect comfortable 3-star hotels, dining at nice restaurants, guided tours, and occasional domestic flights. This is a good range for travelers who want a balance of comfort and value.
  • Luxury (4500+ TRY / $150+ per day): If you want top-tier experiences, this budget covers 5-star hotels, fine dining, private tours, and unique experiences like hot air ballooning in Cappadocia. You’ll find boutique stays in restored Ottoman mansions and private guided visits to historical sites.

How many days are enough for Turkey?

If you want to see Turkey’s highlights without feeling rushed, you’ll want to plan for at least 10 days. That will give you time for 3-4 days in Istanbul, 3 days in Cappadocia, and 2-3 days at either an ancient site like Ephesus or a coastal destination like Antalya.

 If you can stretch your trip to 14-16 days, even better. This would mean a trip where you can take things at a more relaxed pace, add stops like Pamukkale’s surreal travertine pools or the Mediterranean coastline, and really soak in the food, history, and culture without constantly being on the move.

Should I combine my trip to Turkey with another country?

You could easily spend weeks exploring Turkey without running out of things to do. But if you have at least 2.5-3 weeks, pairing it with Greece or Jordan can work well. The Greek Islands connect easily to Turkey’s Aegean coast, while Jordan’s ancient sites—like Petra—complement Turkey’s rich history. That said, if you have less than two weeks, I’d recommend focusing entirely on Turkey. There’s so much to see, and sticking to one country means you’ll spend less time dealing with logistics and more time actually enjoying your trip.

Vintage tram on the Taksim Istiklal street in Istanbul

Vintage tram on the Taksim Istiklal street in Istanbul © Shutterstock

Step 2: Make your trip "wish list"

When to do this: 4-6 months before
This is the fun part—brainstorm everything you’d love to see and do in Turkey. One of the easiest ways to keep track of ideas is by creating a custom Google Map, dropping pins for every landmark, restaurant, or experience that catches your eye. If you’re traveling with a group, try a shared group chat or a Notion page where everyone can add their must-sees. Getting all the ideas on the table early makes it much easier to plan an itinerary that keeps everyone happy.

What are the must-see places in Turkey?

Turkey has everything from Mediterranean beaches to lunar-like valleys, ancient ruins to buzzing bazaars. Here are my top three favorite places to visit:

  • Cappadocia: This surreal landscape of "fairy chimneys" and cave churches feels straight out of a sci-fi movie. Hot air balloon rides are the big draw, but don’t skip the underground cities or a stay in a cave hotel. Visit the Open Air Museum early before tour buses arrive, and hike Rose Valley at sunset for unbeatable views.
  • Ephesus (Efes): One of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. The Library of Celsus and the grand theater are incredible, but the Terrace Houses—with their original frescoes—are just as fascinating. Get there right when it opens at 8 AM to avoid the heat and crowds.
  • Pamukkale: These bright white travertine pools filled with mineral-rich thermal water look like something from another planet. Pair it with the nearby ruins of Hierapolis for a mix of natural beauty and ancient history. Late afternoon is the best time to visit, when the tour groups thin out and the setting sun makes the pools glow.
cappadocia-turkey-shutterstock_1320608780

Cappadocia, Turkey © Shutterstock

What are the most important cities to see?

In Turkey’s cities you’re sure to find ancient monuments standing alongside modern cafes and traditional bazaars next to stylish boutiques. If it’s your first time in Turkey, these cities should be on your list:

  • Istanbul: Spanning two continents, Istanbul is packed with history. The Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque are must-sees, but don’t skip the trendy Karaköy neighborhood for modern Turkish cuisine and art galleries. A great side trip is an early morning ferry ride to the car-free Princes' Islands, where you can explore Ottoman-era mansions and relax by the sea.
  • Antalya: A Mediterranean city that’s both historic and beachy. Kaleiçi, the old town, is full of Ottoman-era charm, while nearby Düden Waterfalls and ancient ruins make for easy day trips. For great local food, head to Sobçular Street instead of the touristy marina restaurants.
  • Izmir: Turkey’s third-largest city has a laid-back, artsy feel. The Kordon waterfront is perfect for a sunset stroll, and the Kemeraltı Bazaar has all the charm of Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, but with fewer tourists. An easy side trip is Çeşme, famous for its beaches and seafood.
  • Konya: Known for its Whirling Dervishes, Konya offers a deep dive into Turkey’s spiritual side. Visit the Mevlana Museum early in the morning to avoid crowds, then check out the city’s beautiful Seljuk-era architecture. If you want to eat like a local, seek out a small shop in Aslım Mahallesi for the best etliekmek (meat bread).
  • Bursa: The former Ottoman capital is famous for its silk bazaars and thermal baths. The Green Mosque complex is a highlight, and if you want a scenic break, Mount Uludağ is just outside the city. For a classic Turkish breakfast, join locals under the 500-year-old İnkaya Plane Tree.
istanbul-grand-bazaar-shutterstock_507137884

Istanbul, Grand Bazaar © Shutterstock

Best natural wonders in Turkey

Turkey’s landscape is incredibly varied, with volcanic rock formations, alpine lakes, and thermal springs spread across the country. Here are some of the most interesting natural spots worth visiting.

  • Pamukkale Travertines (1–2 days): These white calcium terraces step down the hillside like a frozen waterfall, with pools of mineral-rich thermal water collecting at each level. The terraces formed slowly over time as the water deposited calcium, creating natural infinity pools. You can walk through the shallow pools and take in views of the ancient ruins of Hierapolis nearby.
  • Cappadocia Valley (3–4 days): Volcanic eruptions shaped this landscape, leaving behind soft rock formations known as “fairy chimneys.” Over time, wind and rain carved them into the valleys seen today, with distinct colors depending on the minerals in the rock—Rose Valley has pinkish hues, while Red Valley has deeper reds and golds. 
  • Mount Nemrut (1–2 days): This 2,134-meter (7,000-foot) peak is known for the massive stone heads scattered across its summit. They were once part of an ancient tomb-sanctuary built in the 1st century BC and sit atop a man-made mountain.
  • Butterfly Valley (1 day): Near Fethiye, this steep-sided canyon leads to a small beach, backed by high cliffs and a seasonal waterfall. The valley gets its name from the butterfly species that live here, though the best time to see them is in spring. It’s only accessible by boat or a steep hike down from the cliffs above.
Vibrant Pamukkale in Turkey © Suksamran1985/Shutterstock

Vibrant Pamukkale in Turkey © Suksamran1985/Shutterstock

Best hiking trails and national parks

Turkey has a mix of long-distance treks and shorter hikes, with coastal trails and high-altitude routes through the mountains.

  • Köprülü Canyon National Park: This park in the Taurus Mountains has a deep canyon, a few ancient Roman bridges, and a river that’s popular for rafting. The 14-kilometer (8.7-mile) Canyon Trail follows an old Roman road, while the shorter 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) Yazılı Canyon Nature Trail runs along the river. Spring and fall are the best seasons for hiking, when the weather is cooler.
  • Mount Olympos National Park: A mix of coastal cliffs, forest trails, and ancient ruins, this park is home to the eternal flames of Chimaera—natural gas vents that have been burning for centuries. The 509-kilometer (316-mile) Lycian Way runs through the park, but there are also shorter hikes, like the 3-kilometer (1.9-mile) Chimaera Trail and the 5-kilometer (3.1-mile) Bay of Porto Trail. 
  • Kaçkar Mountains National Park: This alpine region in northeastern Turkey has high-altitude lakes, historic churches, and summer pastures (yayla) where local families bring their livestock. The 3-day Kavron Valley Circuit and the 5-day Historical Monastery Trail pass through some of the most scenic parts of the park. Snow usually lingers on the trails until early summer, so the best time for hiking is from July to September.

Off-the-beaten-path options

These are some of my favorite “deep cuts." These are harder to get to, but are less known to tourists and worth the trek.

  • Birgi: A 1.5-hour dolmuş ride from Ödemiş train station takes you to this Ottoman-era village, where wooden mansions line the cobbled streets, and the 700-year-old Ulu Cami still has its original painted interior. Locals gather at Çınaraltı Tea Garden under a sprawling plane tree, sipping tea and chatting for hours.
  • Hasankeyf: A 2-hour minibus ride from Batman brings you to this ancient city along the Tigris River. Though parts were lost to dam waters, the upper city still holds a maze of cave dwellings and medieval ruins. 
  • Şavşat: About three hours from Artvin by bus, this Black Sea highland town is surrounded by medieval Georgian churches and rolling alpine meadows. Summer is the best time to visit, when you can join beekeepers for the honey harvest or explore lush pastures dotted with wooden farmhouses. The village markets are a mix of Turkish and Georgian influences, with everything from fresh mountain cheese to handwoven textiles.
  • Çamlıhemşin: A 2.5-hour dolmuş ride from Rize gets you deep into the Kaçkar Mountains, where misty valleys and historic stone bridges define the landscape. Traditional Black Sea mansions, known as konaks, have been turned into guesthouses, offering a cozy stay with Hemşin hospitality. This region is famous for its polyphonic folk songs and high-altitude honey, both of which you’ll likely encounter.
best places to go with kids Konyaalti sand beach and Taurus mountains in the early morning light, Antalya, Turkey

 Konyaalti sand beach and Taurus mountains in the early morning light, Antalya, Turkey © Shutterstock

Step 3: Start any administrative tasks

When to do this: 3-6 months before

Sorting out admin tasks early can save you a lot of stress later. Things like visas and travel insurance might not be the most exciting part of trip planning, but getting them right can make or break your experience.

Do you need a visa to go to Turkey?

Most travelers need an e-visa, which you can get online from the official Turkish government website (evisa.gov.tr). It’s a simple process—usually takes less than 24 hours—and costs around $60 USD, though the price depends on your nationality.

Citizens of the US, UK, and most EU countries can apply for an e-visa that’s valid for multiple entries over 180 days, allowing stays of up to 90 days at a time. But if you’re arriving by cruise and staying less than 72 hours, you don’t need a visa at all.

Visa rules can change, so always check the official website to confirm what applies to you before you go.

What vaccines do you need for Turkey?

There aren’t any mandatory vaccines for entry, but you should make sure your routine shots (MMR, DPT, and flu) are up to date. The CDC and WHO recommend hepatitis A and typhoid for most travelers, especially if you’ll be eating street food or visiting smaller towns.

Turkey has solid healthcare, especially in big cities, but good travel insurance is still a must—make sure it covers medical emergencies, just in case.

Dilek Peninsula National Park in Turkey © Shutterstock

Dilek Peninsula National Park in Turkey © Shutterstock

Step 4: Core planning your Turkey itinerary

When to do this: 2-4 months before

Planning your route through Turkey early gives you a big advantage—cheaper domestic flights and better chances of booking accommodations in popular spots before they fill up. The way you travel between destinations will shape your experience. Taking an overnight train, for example, saves both time and money on accommodation, while domestic flights let you maximize time at each stop. One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is trying to cram in too much without considering actual travel times.

How do you get around Turkey?

Turkey has a solid transportation network with plenty of options. Domestic flights connect major cities efficiently, intercity buses (otobüs) are comfortable and affordable, and the high-speed train (YHT) is expanding. 

In cities, Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir have reliable metro systems, and shared minibuses (dolmuş) are everywhere. If you want more flexibility—especially in places like Cappadocia or along the Mediterranean coast—renting a car can be a good move. Roads are in great shape, and signs are in both Turkish and Latin script, making navigation easy

What's the best way to travel between cities?

For trips over 500km, domestic flights are usually the best bet. Turkish Airlines and Pegasus have frequent, affordable routes between major cities. The high-speed train is also a great option for routes like Istanbul–Ankara (4.5 hours) or Ankara–Konya (2 hours). It’s a comfortable and scenic ride at a reasonable price. 

For shorter trips or more remote areas, Turkey’s intercity bus network is extensive, with modern coaches that include onboard Wi-Fi and refreshments. Budget travelers often take night buses, but if an overnight train is available on your route, it’s usually a more comfortable way to save both time and a night’s accommodation.

Roman Floor Mosaic from Zeugma, Turkey © bumihills/Shutterstock

Roman Floor Mosaic from Zeugma, Turkey © bumihills/Shutterstock

Step 5: Lock in the major bookings

When to do this: 3-4 months before

Booking your big-ticket items early—flights, accommodations, and any must-do experiences—makes a huge difference. It’s the best way to lock in better prices and avoid missing out, especially for special stays like Cappadocia’s cave hotels or Istanbul’s boutique spots in historic districts. 

Make sure that you aren’t booking based purely on price without factoring in transportation or seasonal events, which can turn what seems like a great deal into a logistical headache.

What's the best way to book flights to Turkey?

For the best prices on international flights, you’ll want to aim to book around 3–4 months in advance. Turkish Airlines has the widest selection of direct routes to Istanbul, and if you have a choice, fly into Istanbul Airport (IST) rather than Sabiha Gökçen (SAW)—IST is better connected to the city. 

If you’re traveling in the shoulder seasons (March–May or September–November), you’ll usually find lower fares, and flying midweek tends to be cheaper. Sign up for price alerts across multiple platforms, and check if Turkish Airlines is running stopover programs—they sometimes offer free hotel stays for long layovers in Istanbul.

Cumalikizik-turkey-shutterstock_1244422993

Cumalikizik, Turkey © Shutterstock

Booking accommodation in Turkey

Here I'll go over some quick suggestions, but if you're looking to dive deeper into the subject, be sure to see our Turkey accommodation guide.

Where to stay in Istanbul

Each neighborhood in Istanbul offers a different experience. For a deeper lookm see our guide to Istanbul’s neighborhoods.

  • Sultanahmet—the heart of the historic district, with converted Ottoman mansions steps from Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Convenient, but pricier and quieter at night.
  • Beyoğlu & Galata: Lively areas filled with boutique hotels, art nouveau buildings, cafes, and nightlife. Great for an immersive city experience.
  • Kadıköy (Asian Side): A more residential feel with modern apartments and small hotels. Great food scene and better value for money.

If you're visiting during Ramadan or major festivals, you might want to consider booking a refundable rate, as prices can fluctuate. No matter where you stay, prioritize places near a metro or tram stop to make getting around easier.

Where to stay in Cappadocia

Sleeping in a cave hotel is a Cappadocia must—these rock-carved rooms are historic but outfitted with modern comforts. The best areas to stay:

  • Göreme: The main hub, with everything from budget-friendly cave hostels to high-end suites with terraces perfect for watching hot air balloons at sunrise.
  • Ürgüp & Uçhisar: A bit more upscale, with panoramic views and luxury hotels.
  • Ortahisar: A quieter, more authentic village experience.

For peak season (April–October), book well in advance. If you’re staying in a cave hotel, ask for a room deeper in the rock—they naturally regulate temperature better. Many hotels advertise balloon-viewing terraces, but double-check before booking if that’s important to you.

Where to stay on the coast

Turkey’s coast has everything from all-inclusive resorts to small, family-run guesthouses.

  • Antalya’s Kaleiçi (Old Town): Restored Ottoman houses turned boutique hotels, right in the city’s historic heart.
  • Alaçatı & Çeşme (Aegean Coast): Charming, whitewashed towns with family-run pensions offering a more personal touch.
  • Bodrum & Fethiye: A mix of high-end resorts and mid-range stays. Book early for July–August, when Turkish vacationers flood the coast.

If beach time is a priority, look for places with private beach access or beach club partnerships, since public beaches can get packed in peak season.

Beach as known Gizli Liman or Ugurlu in Turkish at Gokceada, Turkey © Shutterstock

Beach as known Gizli Liman or Ugurlu in Turkish at Gokceada, Turkey © Shutterstock

Step 6: Plan and book your activities

When to do this: 2-3 months before

Booking key activities in advance guarantees your spot for high-demand experiences like hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia or a hammam session at one of Istanbul’s historic bathhouses. It also helps shape your itinerary—locking in time-sensitive activities first makes it easier to plan the rest of your days around them. The timing of your bookings can make or break your experience. For example, if you schedule a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus early in your trip, you can plan your sightseeing around it rather than scrambling last minute.

What attractions need advance booking?

If any of these are on your list, book ahead to avoid disappointment:

  • Hot air balloon rides (Cappadocia): Book 2-3 months ahead for peak season (April-October). Flights happen daily at sunrise, weather permitting. Most companies have a 24-hour cancellation policy and will reschedule if needed. Balloon capacity is strictly limited, so last-minute spots are rare.
  • Çemberlitaş Hamam (Istanbul): Reserve 1-2 weeks ahead, especially for weekends and high season. Early morning slots (8-10 AM) are the least crowded. Booking through their official site gives you the best rates and treatment options.
  • Topkapi Palace Harem (Istanbul): Timed entry tickets sell out fast, so book 2-3 days ahead—especially when cruise ships are in town (April-November). Special guided tours of restricted areas require booking at least a week in advance.
  • Ephesus terrace houses (Ephesus): Guided tours fill up quickly, so book a week ahead during peak season. Entry is limited to small groups (10-15 people per slot). The best time to visit is in the morning (8-10 AM) for softer light and fewer crowds.
Harem in Topkapi Palace, Istanbul, Turkey © AdobeStock

Harem in Topkapi Palace, Istanbul, Turkey © AdobeStock

What should I be sure to see in Istanbul?

If you only have time for a few highlights, these are the ones I’d prioritize:

  • Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya): This architectural icon has seen over 1,500 years of history, blending Byzantine mosaics with Islamic calligraphy. Its massive dome and golden light give it an almost surreal feel. Get there when it opens (8:30 AM) to enjoy the space before the crowds. 
  • Süleymaniye Mosque: Designed by Sinan, this mosque has some of the best views over the Golden Horn and a much calmer atmosphere than the Blue Mosque. The complex also has beautiful gardens and a historic soup kitchen still serving meals. Visit outside prayer times and consider having lunch at the historic Darüzziyafe restaurant on-site.
  • Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı): This 500-year-old market is a maze of 60 streets and 4,000 shops, selling everything from antiques to textiles. The hidden hans (old caravanserais) are where you’ll find traditional craftsmen at work. Enter through the Nuruosmaniye Gate in the early morning (before 10 AM) when the shops are just opening—it’s the quietest time to explore.

Cultural experiences in Turkey

Many traditions in Turkey are still part of daily life, these experiences give you a chance to take part in them firsthand.

  • Making mantı in Cappadocia: In central Cappadocia, some local families still gather to make mantı—tiny, hand-folded dumplings that are a staple of home cooking. Some guesthouses in Göreme and Ürgüp offer workshops where you can learn the technique and see how these dumplings are prepared in a traditional setting. 
  • Olive harvesting along the Aegean coast: Between October and December, families near Selçuk harvest olives using traditional hand-picking methods. Some small-scale farms and cooperatives allow visitors to take part, learn about olive oil production, and share meals with the farmers. 
  • Ebru (paper marbling) in Istanbul: In Istanbul’s Fatih district, artists still practice ebru, a traditional form of paper marbling that involves floating paint on water to create patterns. The technique has been passed down for generations and is recognized by UNESCO. Workshops are available in Süleymaniye, where artists explain the process and let participants create their own pieces.
hagia_sophia

Interior of the Hagia Sophia © Shutterstock

What should you eat in Turkey?

Food in Turkey is a mix of regional flavors, fresh ingredients, and a long tradition of cooking methods that have been refined over time. There’s far too many great dishes to list them all here, but here are some of the classics:

  • Pide (Karadeniz Pide Salonu, Trabzon): This boat-shaped flatbread comes with all kinds of toppings, but in the Black Sea region, anchovy pide is the one to try. It’s baked in a wood-fired oven and best eaten fresh in the morning.
  • İskender Kebab (Bursa Kebapçısı İskender, Bursa): Thinly sliced döner meat is layered over pieces of pide bread, then topped with tomato sauce and melted butter. It’s served with a side of yogurt and has been made the same way for over a century. The original restaurant in Bursa still follows the old recipe.
  • Mantı (Sivaslı Kadınlar Mantı, Sivas): These tiny dumplings are filled with spiced meat and served with garlicky yogurt. In Sivas, they’re made so small that dozens of them fit on a single spoon. A women’s cooperative in the city still makes them by hand using traditional techniques.
  • Künefe (Çınaraltı Künefe, Antakya): Shredded phyllo dough is layered with cheese, baked until golden, and soaked in syrup. The version from Hatay uses a local cheese that gives it a stretchy texture. Many places prepare it right at the table, so you can see how it’s made.
  • Cağ Kebab (Asım Usta, Erzurum): Unlike vertical döner, cağ kebab is cooked horizontally over a wood fire, with skewers of lamb slowly roasted. The recipe hasn’t changed much over the years, and the marinade includes a mix of local herbs.
turkish food

How to plan a trip to Turkey: eat lots of Turkish food © Shutterstock

Step 7: Handle the last details

When to do this: 1 month before

The last month before your trip is the time to take care of those small but important details that can make a big difference in your travel experience. Download offline maps and translation apps, let your bank know you're traveling, and figure out how you'll get from the airport to your first accommodation.

How do you stay connected in Turkey?

Getting a local SIM card in Turkey is easy and worth it for reliable service. You can buy one at the airport or at authorized dealers in city centers—just bring your passport. Major providers like Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom offer tourist packages with plenty of data for 1-2 months. If your phone supports eSIMs, that’s another good option. Wi-Fi is common in hotels, restaurants, and cafes, but having mobile data is a game-changer for navigation and translation apps.

What currency is used in Turkey?

Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (TRY or ₺). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but you’ll need cash for local markets, small restaurants, and public transport. ATMs are easy to find and work with most international cards—just make sure to notify your bank before you travel. For the best exchange rates, use banks or official exchange offices (döviz) instead of street vendors. Since the exchange rate can fluctuate, it’s smart to exchange smaller amounts as needed rather than all at once. Many tourist spots accept euros or US dollars, but you’ll get a better deal paying in lira.

Things not to miss in Turkey: The lion gate of The Hattusa that is The capital of the Hittite Civilization, Corum, Turkey.

The lion gate of The Hattusa, which is the capital of the Hittite Civilization, Corum, Turkey © Shutterstock

What should you pack for Turkey?

Packing for Turkey depends on where you're headed and what you plan to do, but it’s best to bring layers and comfortable shoes.

  • City sightseeing and cultural sites: If you’re visiting mosques, you’ll need modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Women should bring a scarf for head covering. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for getting around Istanbul’s hills and cobblestone streets. A crossbody bag is useful for markets, and a reusable water bottle helps you stay hydrated. Museums and evenings can get chilly, so bring something warm.
  • Coastal and beach areas: Light, breathable clothing and swimwear are great for the coast, but it’s good to have a modest cover-up when walking through town. Water shoes can be helpful for pebble beaches, and reef-safe sunscreen is a good idea. The sun can be intense, so a hat helps. Some hotels don’t allow their towels to be taken off-property, so if you prefer your own, bring one. Quick-dry clothes work well for the humid climate.
  • Outdoor and archaeological sites: Sturdy hiking shoes and moisture-wicking clothing make exploring ruins and natural sites more comfortable. A wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and light long sleeves help with sun protection. A small daypack is useful for carrying water and extra layers since temperatures can change throughout the day.
church-redeemer-ani-turkey-shutterstock_101983315

Church Redeemer Ani, Turkey © Shutterstock

Planning a trip with kids

Turkey is a welcoming place for families. In Istanbul, Miniaturk has a miniature version of Turkey’s landmarks, while the Grand Bazaar can be an exciting scavenger hunt. Along the Mediterranean coast, beach resorts often have kids’ clubs and shallow waters. 

Breaking up sightseeing with activities like a boat trip on the Bosphorus, watching whirling dervishes, or joining a family-friendly cooking class can keep kids engaged. Many hotels have family rooms or connecting options, and Turkish food tends to have plenty of dishes that are familiar and easy for kids to enjoy.

Planning a luxury trip

Turkey has no shortage of upscale experiences, whether it’s staying in a cave suite in Cappadocia or taking a private yacht trip along the coast. In Istanbul, some hotels are set in restored Ottoman palaces, with scenic views and standout service.

Private guides can arrange after-hours tours of landmarks like Hagia Sophia, while historic hammams provide spa treatments in traditional marble bathhouses. Along the coast, boutique resorts have private beaches and personalized experiences. You could take a private hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia, charter a gulet for a coastal cruise, or book a cooking class with a local chef. For those interested in shopping, private viewings at carpet galleries or custom pieces from Turkish designers can also be arranged.

Planning a trip with experts

Overwhelmed by all the details? You're not alone. Researching and planning takes time, but with our tailor-made-trips, you can enjoy a journey designed just for you by a local expert who knows the area inside and out. Plus, you’ll have 24/7 support throughout your trip.

Remember to slow down

It’s easy to feel like you need to rush through the must-see spots, but some of the best experiences come from slowing down and savoring the quiet moments. Now that you’re all set, let go of the need to check off every box and focus on truly enjoying your time—that's the real magic. For more inspiration, check out our trip ideas gallery.

Dre Roelandt

written by
Dre Roelandt

updated 12.02.2025

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.

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