Welcome to my curated list of travel resources I rely on when planning trips to Turkey. I put this together because readers frequently ask how to organize a trip, the best ways to travel, where to stay, and which guides or services I recommend. I can’t respond to every email, so this page collects the reliable sites, guidebooks, services, and equipment I use.
Some resources are free and others paid. A few services are ones I participate in via affiliate programs; this doesn’t cost you anything extra but helps support the site. Below you’ll find practical, tested tools to help you plan transportation, accommodation, visas, and more.
Resources to Help Plan a Trip to Turkey
International and Domestic Flights
Turkish Airlines operates hundreds of international and domestic flights daily and regularly receives awards for service. It’s a strong option for flying into Istanbul and for connecting to destinations across Turkey. For domestic routes and other operators, check dedicated domestic flight resources to compare schedules and fares.
Cross Country Bus Companies
Intercity bus travel in Turkey is affordable and generally comfortable. From Istanbul, Istanbul Seyahat offers many routes, while Pamukkale Turizm and Kamil Koç are well-established operators with extensive networks. You can check routes, departure times and book tickets online or at local bus stations. Buses are a convenient way to cover long distances if you prefer not to fly.
Don’t Forget Your Visa!
Turkey no longer issues paper visas at the border, so apply for your visa before departure. Many third-party sites charge extra fees; for the official fee and the safest process, obtain your visa through the government e-Visa portal.
Handy Guidebooks
For Istanbul, a compact guide like Istanbul Select is handy for neighborhood guides, attractions, shopping and dining tips. Pat Yale’s local knowledge makes it an easy companion while exploring the city. For wider coverage of the country, the Insight Guides Turkey offers an in-depth overview of regions, recommended sights, eating and accommodation options, and practical advice across many pages—useful for planning multi-region trips.
Internet Connection
Many hotels and cafés offer free Wi-Fi, but for travelers who need reliable mobile internet across locations, renting a portable 3G/4G device provides consistent access. Companies offering unlimited mobile Wi-Fi or dongles can be a strong option for remote areas. I’ve tested rental devices that delivered solid speeds and dependable service nationwide.
Accommodation and Hotels
Booking.com lists a broad selection of hotels across Turkey, allowing easy comparison of prices, locations and guest reviews. It’s a useful starting point to narrow options and read feedback from previous guests. Filtering by neighborhood, rating, and amenities makes it simple to find places that match your travel style and budget.
Tours and Excursions
Efendi Travel specializes in self-guided and small-group tours around Istanbul and beyond. They have a good reputation for customer service and local knowledge. If you prefer arranging day tours or tailored experiences directly with a local operator, companies like this are worth considering.
International Money Transfers
Expats and long-term visitors who move funds to Turkey regularly should compare specialist currency transfer services. Currency brokers that serve expatriates often offer exchange rates and fees substantially better than traditional banks. Comparison sites list and rate multiple providers so you can find competitive rates and lower transfer costs.
Other Posts to Help You Plan a Turkey Trip
Top Ten Turkey Blogs: A curated list of regional blogs by expats and long-term residents that share travel tips, local insights and destination ideas.
Map of Turkey and Provinces: Interactive maps help you understand distances and provincial layouts, useful when plotting an itinerary.
About Turkey: An overview of essential facts for first-time visitors to prepare for culture, customs and practicalities.
Souvenir Shopping: Recommendations for authentic souvenirs and tips to shop confidently in markets and stores.
Independent or Guided Travel: A discussion on whether to explore Turkey independently or join guided tours, with pros and cons of each approach.
Travel Tips: Practical tips to make your trip smoother, from packing advice to local customs.
Suggested Places To Visit: Ideas for notable destinations and highlights across Turkey to help shape your itinerary.
If you have specific questions about any of these resources or need recommendations tailored to your travel dates and interests, feel free to ask. These tools have helped me plan numerous trips and should make organizing your visit to Turkey much easier.