Whether you are an experienced traveler or taking your first package holiday to Turkey, these travel tips will help you make the most of your trip. They come from many years of personal travel and from working as a holiday representative for British tourists. I have refined this advice over 14 years of visiting and living in Turkey.
Travel Tips for Turkey
1 – Turkey is gradually replacing the old sticker visas issued on arrival with an electronic visa system. Check and apply through the official e‑visa portal before you travel to avoid unnecessary fees from third‑party sites.
2 – Organize your airport transfer before you arrive. Arranging transport on the spot is usually more expensive, and many local tour operators avoid picking up passengers directly from the airport to steer clear of local taxi disputes. Prebooked transfers or hotel shuttles are typically cheaper and more reliable than paying high taxi fares on arrival.
3 – If your holiday package includes “Bed and Breakfast,” expect a traditional Turkish breakfast rather than a full English or continental spread, unless you are staying in a high‑end hotel. Many upscale hotels also do not serve pork products. If you prefer a familiar breakfast, consider booking room‑only and visiting a local café each morning.
4 – In basic or budget accommodation, bathrooms are often designed as wet rooms: a shower hose, a drain in the floor and minimal partitioning. If you prefer an enclosed shower cubicle, aim for at least a mid‑range (three‑star) hotel; if you want a full bathtub, choose a five‑star property.
5 – If you hire a car, remember that in Turkey you drive on the right. Even when you have the right of way, don’t assume other drivers will yield. Road etiquette varies and the legal blood alcohol limit is effectively zero, so avoid drinking if you plan to drive.
6 – Tipping in restaurants is customary; around 10% of the bill is typical, depending on the level of service. Always ask to see the bill and verify the charges before paying.
7 – Shop around for excursion prices. Tour reps and holiday companies sometimes charge higher rates because of multiple commission layers between the excursion operator, local agents and the booking company. You can often find the same tours for less by comparing offers from different providers.
8 – Bargaining is a normal part of shopping in markets and for large purchases like carpets or gold. If an item has no price tag, the seller expects you to haggle. Restaurants and bars usually have fixed prices, so bargaining does not apply there.
9 – Gold is generally a good buy in Turkey. Jewelry is commonly 22‑carat and prices can be more competitive than in many Western countries. When buying, check the stamp and the price carefully and compare several shops to get a fair deal.
10 – Try some local drinks. Raki, often called “lion’s milk,” is Turkey’s traditional aniseed spirit. If you prefer non‑alcoholic options, try ayran, a refreshing chilled drink made from yogurt, water and salt. Note that “süt” is the Turkish word for milk, so if you ask for ayran by mistake expecting milk you’ll get the yogurt drink.
Practical tips: carry a small amount of local currency for markets and tips, keep photocopies of your travel documents, learn a few basic Turkish phrases (hello, please, thank you) and be mindful of local customs and dress codes when visiting religious sites. Drinking water in many areas is chlorinated; bottled water is widely available if you prefer it. Stay aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist areas and safeguard valuables.
Turkey is diverse—from bustling cities to tranquil coastal towns and dramatic landscapes. Being prepared, respectful and open to local customs will make your visit more enjoyable and hassle‑free. If you have traveled to Turkey before, consider sharing your own tips to help future visitors.
Further Reading
Places in Turkey: first‑hand exploration of destinations across the country, from east to west.
Culture and Traditions: personal observations and lessons learned while adapting to local society and customs.