Turkey: Complete Travel Guide
Discover Turkey: Istanbul, Cappadocia, beaches, Turkish cuisine and everything to plan your trip between Europe and Asia.
Why Visit Turkey
Turkey is where Europe meets Asia, East meets West. Istanbul is one of the world's most impressive cities, Cappadocia looks like another planet, and the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts rival Greece at much lower prices.
Top Destinations
Istanbul
Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, a Bosphorus cruise... Istanbul is a city you need to experience with all your senses.
Daily budget: 40-80€
Cappadocia
Lunar landscapes, underground cities, cave churches and the famous sunrise hot air balloon ride (from 150€). Goreme is the perfect base.
Daily budget: 35-70€
Aegean Coast
Ephesus, Pamukkale (travertine pools), Bodrum and Fethiye. Nature, history and stunning beaches.
Daily budget: 30-60€
Antalya
The Turkish Riviera. Beaches, old town (Kaleici), waterfalls and the Perge and Aspendos ruins.
Daily budget: 30-60€
Turkish Cuisine
- Kebab — Far more than you know. Iskender, Adana, doner, shish...
- Baklava — Pistachio and honey pastry, the king of desserts
- Pide — The "Turkish pizza" shaped like a boat
- Manti — Turkish ravioli with yogurt and tomato sauce
- Lahmacun — Thin minced meat flatbread
- Gozleme — Stuffed crepe with cheese and spinach
- Cay — Turkish tea, offered to you everywhere
- Simit — Sesame bread ring, the ultimate street snack
Budget
| Category | Backpacker | Mid-range | Comfort | |----------|-----------|-----------|---------| | Accommodation | 10-25€ | 30-70€ | 80-200€ | | Food | 5-12€ | 15-30€ | 30-60€ | | Transport | 3-8€ | 10-20€ | 20-50€ | | Total/day | 18-45€ | 55-120€ | 130-310€ |
Practical Tips
Tip
The Istanbulkart (Istanbul transport card) costs 50 TL and saves you up to 50% on metro, tram, ferry and bus.
- E-visa — Most countries need an online e-visa (quick and easy)
- Turkish lira — The weak currency makes Turkey very affordable for Europeans
- Bargaining — Mandatory at the Grand Bazaar and markets
- Ramadan — Be respectful if traveling during Ramadan. Tourist restaurants stay open
- Dress code — Cover shoulders and knees in mosques. Women should cover their hair