Are you planning to travel to Turkey? Well, you’re in luck because I’m here to share with you some practical tips that will help you save money, time, and have the best possible trip. In this article, we’ll cover topics like the best time to visit Turkey, where to stay, how to get around, and much more. So, let’s dive in!
8 Best Places in Turkey for Every Traveler
Don’t know where in Turkey you can find what you want? Let me help.
I’ve been traveling in and out of Turkey for years and finally spent a year living in Antalya, uncovering the hidden gems and highlights of this beautiful country.
Whether you’re a beach lover, a history enthusiast, or an adventurous hiker, I’ve explored it all. Let me be your guide and share the best destinations depending on the kind of traveler you are.
Turkey Travel Guide to Must-See Destinations and Insider Tips
Best Time to Travel to Turkey
The most popular months to visit Turkey are July and August. But, they are also the hottest months and most humid. Most people come with children because it’s summer holidays, and we all want to escape to the beach during the summer.
Antalya, Turkey Ultimate Guide
Antalya is a city I called home for a whole year, and it’s time to share all the secrets with you! Save yourself a headache of reading through countless AI-generated blogs.
What’s inside the Guide:
- Türkiye Visa Information
- Map of Antalya with the best locations pinned (170+)
- When is the best time to travel?
- Where to stay? Best beaches, neighborhoods & recommended hotels (boutique and apart hotels, plus all-inclusive)
- Things to see & do
- Boat tours
- Group tours
- Daily trips
- 6-day itinerary
- Where to eat
- Must-try Turkish food
- Transportation: public transport, taxi, car rentals
- SIM cards
- Bonus: next recommended destination
Limited amount of Guides are available, get yours now!
These are the most popular months, but most of the tourists are here, so the prices are the highest. It’s very hot, and it’s very humid. So, I say the much better months are October and May. The water might not be as warm as it is in the summer months, but there will be fewer tourists, and the prices at hotels and restaurants will be better.
If you want to visit Istanbul, you can do it in April, May, September, or October. In the summer months, especially in the old city, it will be super crowded. I would recommend booking hotels as early as possible if you want to get a better price.
To avoid common scams, overpriced services, and tourist traps, get my detailed Istanbul Asian Side Guide here:
https://olgapronkina.com/istanbul (secret bonus inside!)
What are the best cities to visit in Turkey?
Istanbul is undoubtedly the most popular destination in Turkey. It’s a bustling metropolis that straddles two continents, Asia and Europe, and boasts a rich history that spans over 2,500 years. You can explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, the grand Topkapi Palace, and the bustling Grand Bazaar. Istanbul’s cuisine is also a highlight, with delicious kebabs, meze, and baklava.
Read more: 3 DAYS IN ISTANBUL, TURKIYE: Best things to do if you have never been there before
Cappadocia is a unique destination in Turkey, known for its stunning natural beauty and ancient cave dwellings. The region is located in central Turkey and is characterized by its unusual rock formations, called “fairy chimneys.” And you must do what everyone comes to Cappadocia for – take a hot air balloon ride over the surreal landscape at sunrise. The town of Goreme is a popular base for exploring the region, with its charming cave hotels and traditional restaurants.
Antalya is another must-visit city in Turkey, situated on the stunning Turkish Riviera. The city boasts beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a lively nightlife scene. The old town, Kaleici, is a charming area with narrow streets, old houses, and Ottoman-era architecture. You can also visit the ancient city of Perge and the stunning Duden Waterfalls. We spent a year in Antalya and I could easily recommend it to everyone for their first trip to Turkey! Both for families and for solo travelers.
Read more: 10 Reasons to Visit Antalya, Turkey. Best things to see and do
Kemer is a small town located between Antalya and Olympos, surrounded by stunning mountains and beautiful beaches. The town is known for its luxurious resorts and lively nightlife, but you can also explore the nearby Olympos National Park and the ancient city of Phaselis.
Read more: Kemer, Antalya Turkey: Beaches, Hotels and Things To See
Bodrum is a popular destination among the Turkish elite and international celebrities. The city is known for its luxurious resorts, lively nightlife, and stunning beaches. You can also explore the impressive Bodrum Castle and the ancient Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. Great for solo travelers.
Read more: Bodrum, Turkey. Beaches, weather, restaurants, things to do
Alanya is another gem on the Turkish Riviera, beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a bustling marina. The old town, Kaleici, is a must-visit with its colorful buildings and narrow streets. You can also visit the impressive Alanya Castle and take a boat tour along the coast. Alanya is a great destination both for families and for solo travelers.
Marmaris is a charming coastal town that’s popular with party goers. You can also relax on the beautiful beaches, go hiking in the nearby mountains, or explore the old town with its traditional bazaars and Ottoman-era architecture. Marmaris is also a great base for day trips to nearby attractions like Dalyan, where you can see the famous Lycian tombs.
Read more: Trip to Marmaris, Turkey in January. Heaven Island, Beaches, Castle
Side is a picturesque town located on a peninsula, surrounded by stunning beaches and ancient ruins. You can explore the impressive Temple of Apollo, the stunning Theater, and the ancient Agora. The town is also a great base for day trips to nearby attractions like the Manavgat Waterfalls and the stunning Aspendos Theater. Great for families and it’s very close to Antalya.
Izmir is a vibrant coastal city located on the Aegean coast, known for its lively nightlife, delicious cuisine, and rich history. You can explore the impressive Kemeralti Bazaar, the ancient Roman city of Ephesus, and the stunning Cesme peninsula. A great alternative to Istanbul!
Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Izmir, Turkey. Things to see, where to stay, public transport
Even during the winter season Turkey can be a great destination! We did a roadtrip in January and it’s one of the best memories from Turkey for me!
Where to Stay in Turkey: All-inclusive or Boutique Hotel?
Now that you know when to visit Turkey, it’s time to decide where to stay. When it comes to choosing a hotel, you have two options: an all-inclusive hotel or a smaller boutique hotel.
Antalya, Turkey Ultimate Guide
Antalya is a city I called home for a whole year, and it’s time to share all the secrets with you! Save yourself a headache of reading through countless AI-generated blogs.
What’s inside the Guide:
- Türkiye Visa Information
- Map of Antalya with the best locations pinned (170+)
- When is the best time to travel?
- Where to stay? Best beaches, neighborhoods & recommended hotels (boutique and apart hotels, plus all-inclusive)
- Things to see & do
- Boat tours
- Group tours
- Daily trips
- 6-day itinerary
- Where to eat
- Must-try Turkish food
- Transportation: public transport, taxi, car rentals
- SIM cards
- Bonus: next recommended destination
Limited amount of Guides are available, get yours now!
It all depends on what kind of traveler you are. If you are like me and you don’t have children, and you want to explore the city while on holiday, then I would say go for a boutique hotel. I would even recommend booking breakfast only, as you will want to check out the local restaurants in the area.
I, myself, get tired of the same food at the hotel every day, which is the case, especially with smaller hotels. But, for example, if you’re a couple with children and looking for a place where they can be entertained and enjoy water slides, while you can do some sunbathing at the beach and just relax, then an all-inclusive hotel might be for you.
Keep in mind that there are premium all-inclusive hotels in Turkey, but they come at a premium price. It’s more than 1000 Euro a week. So, if you’re getting a really good deal on a 5-star hotel at your tour agency, most likely it won’t be a real 5-star hotel. It will be 3.5 or 4-star at best. So, don’t expect a premium hotel for a cheap price.
That’s why, for couples or single travelers without children, I would recommend staying at a boutique hotel. And, maybe if your children are older, and you’re okay with them going into the city, then maybe even for you, a boutique hotel with just breakfast might be better.
Read More: Best Boutique Hotels in Antalya Old Town (Kaleiçi)
Also, keep in mind that most of the all-inclusive 5-star hotels are a bit away from the city center. So, when you want to travel, you will need to get a taxi. And, especially taxis in those areas are sometimes not going by the meter, which is illegal, but they still do it. So, my opinion is that smaller boutique hotels with breakfast only are a better option than all-inclusive big hotels.
Read more: Tourist SCAMS in Turkey and how to AVOID them
My husband and I have been living in Turkey for a year, and we do travel from time to time. But, if we wanted to walk into a hotel, we would never get a better price than the price that we see online. So, book your hotels in advance to save money and avoid any hassle.
How to Use Public Transport
Public transportation is a great way to get around Turkey, and it’s generally safe and reliable. If you’re traveling within a city, you can use the local buses, trams, or metro systems. In Istanbul, the metro system is extensive, and it’s a great way to avoid traffic and see the city from a different perspective. There are also buses and trams that run throughout the city, and these are a great option if you want to get around quickly.
To avoid common scams, overpriced services, and tourist traps, get my detailed Istanbul Asian Side Guide here (it will save you 10x its cost on transportation and eating out alone):
https://olgapronkina.com/istanbul (secret bonus inside!)
One thing to keep in mind when using public transport is that you’ll need a transportation card (In Istanbul – Istanbulkart), which is a rechargeable card that you can use on all public transport in Istanbul.
You can purchase these cards at any metro or bus station, and they will help you save money on public transportation in Turkey. You can then load the card with credit, and you’ll be able to use it to pay for your journeys.
If you’re traveling between cities, you can take a bus or a train. The bus system in Turkey is extensive, and you can get almost anywhere by bus. There are several different bus companies, and they all have their own schedules and prices. You can purchase bus tickets online, at a bus station (“Otogar” on Turkish), or through a travel agency.
Taking a train is also a great option, especially if you want to see some of the countryside. The Turkish State Railways operate several different train routes, and you can purchase tickets online or at a train station.
How to Buy a SIM Card in Turkey
If you want to stay connected while you’re in Turkey, you’ll need to purchase a local SIM card. There are several different mobile providers in Turkey, and you can purchase a SIM card from any of them.
Main providers:
- Turkcell,
- Vodafone
- Turk Telekom
To purchase a SIM card in Turkey, you’ll need to provide some identification, such as your passport. You’ll also need to pay for the card and add some credit. Once you have your SIM card, you’ll be able to use your phone in Turkey: make and receive calls, send text messages, and use Internet data.
If you have a residence permit, then after 3 months you have to register your phone and pay Tax.
What Money to Take with You to Turkey (Euro, Dollar, Turkish Lira)
It’s also a good idea to let your bank know that you’ll be traveling to Turkey, so they don’t block your card for suspicious activity. You should also check with your bank to see if they charge any fees for using your card abroad.
To avoid common scams, overpriced services, and tourist traps, get my detailed Istanbul Asian Side Guide here (it will save you 10x its cost on transportation and eating out alone):
https://olgapronkina.com/istanbul (secret bonus inside!)
The currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). It’s best to travel with US Dollar or Euro + Credit card. You can exchange currency at a bank or a currency exchange office, or you can withdraw money from an ATM using your credit card. It’s generally best to withdraw money from an ATM, as you’ll get a better exchange rate than you would at a currency exchange office.
Where to Shop for the Best Prices in Turkey
If you want to do some shopping while you’re in Turkey, there are several different options. The markets in Turkey are famous for their spices, textiles, and ceramics, and they’re a great place to find unique souvenirs.
If you’re looking for a more modern shopping experience, there are several different malls throughout the country. Popular Mall in Istanbul is the Istanbul Zorlu Center, and in Antalya – Mall of Antalya.
Shopping Malls in Istanbul, Turkey
Shopping Malls in Antalya, Turkey
Another great option for shopping is to visit the local bazaars. These are open-air markets that sell everything from clothing to jewelry to spices. The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the most famous bazaars in the world, and it’s a must-visit if you’re in Istanbul (but not for actual shopping, more for the experience).
Turkey Travel FAQ
8 Best Places in Turkey for Every Traveler
Don’t know where in Turkey you can find what you want? Let me help.
I’ve been traveling in and out of Turkey for years and finally spent a year living in Antalya, uncovering the hidden gems and highlights of this beautiful country.
Whether you’re a beach lover, a history enthusiast, or an adventurous hiker, I’ve explored it all. Let me be your guide and share the best destinations depending on the kind of traveler you are.
Do I need a visa to visit Turkey?
Many nationalities can travel to Turkey visa-free and can stay for 90 days within any 180 days period. To check if you need a visa to travel to Turkey, visit Ministry of Foreign Affairs Republic of Turkiye website.
Can I drink tap water in Turkey?
It’s generally not recommended to drink tap water in Turkey. Instead, opt for bottled water or use a water filter.
What should I wear when visiting Turkey?
Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country, so it’s important to dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites. I would also advise to not walk around in a swimsuit outside of the beach/hotel. Otherwise there is no requirement to cover the hair (for women) or their knees/shoulders in public.
What are some traditional Turkish foods to try?
Some traditional Turkish foods to try include kebabs, meze (appetizers), baklava (a sweet pastry), and Turkish delight (a sweet confectionary). Don’t forget the Turkish ice cream made of goat milk!
Is it safe to travel to Turkey solo/for women/families?
Turkey is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it’s important to take usual safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings and use common sense. Take care of your belongings, especially in crowded touristy areas. Be aware of common tourist scams in Turkey.
To avoid common scams, overpriced services, and tourist traps, get my detailed Istanbul Asian Side Guide here (it will save you 10x its cost on transportation and eating out alone):
https://olgapronkina.com/istanbul (secret bonus inside!)
Traveling in Turkey: Your Ultimate Guide to Must-See Destinations and Insider Tips
Turkey is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an adventure in the city, Turkey has something for every traveler. By following these practical tips, you’ll be able to save money, time and have the best holiday!
8 Best Places in Turkey for Every Traveler
Don’t know where in Turkey you can find what you want? Let me help.
I’ve been traveling in and out of Turkey for years and finally spent a year living in Antalya, uncovering the hidden gems and highlights of this beautiful country.
Whether you’re a beach lover, a history enthusiast, or an adventurous hiker, I’ve explored it all. Let me be your guide and share the best destinations depending on the kind of traveler you are.
Just wanted to say — the guide (8 best places in Turkey) was genuinely helpful. I came across places I’d never even heard of before, and it helped me figure out what actually suits me, not just what looks good on Instagram. Alsoin Istanbul I went to the rooftop restaurant you linked with the Bosphorus view — really nice atmosphere, not overpriced, and not packed with tourists either. Felt more like a recommendation from someone who actually knows the country, not just a copy-paste travel blog.
Thank you, Nate! glad to here the guide was helpful and you had a good time in Turkey.
I came back from Turkey and the taxis in Istanbul were great. We paid 400 TL (Turkish Lira) to get to our hotel by the Bosphorous. Cappadocia was amazing, but the hot air balloon ride was too expensive at $320 per person, so we decided to watch instead. We also went to Antalya but had a problem with our Airbnb host and didn’t stay where we booked. We had a great time in Kas. Overall, I liked the countryside more than Istanbul because the city was crowded and had lots of traffic.
Yes, hot air balloon is not the cheapest experience in Turkey, but worth it!
You two guys are TWO GEMS. I can compare you to Parents grabbing their children hands and showing them the way to whatever they want to do and how to do it the proper way thus avoiding making mistakes. THANK YOU
Thank you, Alex!
I am traveling together with my sister, can we both use the same Antalya public transport card or Istanbul public or we each have to buy?
Yes, you can use the same Antalyakart and Istanbulkart