Travel Guide to Türkiye

Everything you need to know for your journey to the crossroads of civilizations

⚠️ Important Notice

Visa requirements and entry procedures can change. This guide provides general information as of November 2026. Always verify current requirements with official Turkish diplomatic missions or the e-Visa website (www.evisa.gov.tr) before traveling.

Visa Requirements

Türkiye offers different visa options depending on your nationality and purpose of visit. As of 2026, citizens of 78 countries can enter visa-free, while many others can obtain an e-Visa online.

Visa-Free Entry

90 Days within 180 Days

Major visa-free countries:
  • Germany, France, Italy, Spain
  • Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland
  • United Kingdom (90 days)
  • Japan, South Korea, Malaysia
  • Argentina, Brazil, Chile
  • Most EU/Schengen countries

30-60 Days

Select countries with shorter stays:
  • Russia (60 days)
  • Thailand (30 days)
  • Philippines (30 days)
  • Hong Kong (90 days)
  • Kazakhstan (30 days)
  • Lebanon (90 days)

e-Visa Required

Apply online before travel:
  • United States
  • Canada
  • Australia
  • China
  • India
  • Mexico
  • South Africa
  • Pakistan

e-Visa System

The Turkish e-Visa is an electronic travel authorization that can be obtained online in minutes. Processing typically takes 5-10 minutes with immediate approval.

e-Visa Requirements

  • Valid passport (6+ months validity)
  • Return/onward ticket
  • Hotel reservation or accommodation proof
  • Credit/debit card for payment
  • Email address for delivery

e-Visa Details

  • Cost: $50-60 USD (varies by nationality)
  • Validity: 180 days from issue
  • Stay: Up to 90 days within 180 days
  • Multiple entry allowed
  • Tourism and business purposes

Sticker Visa Countries

Citizens of these countries must apply at Turkish consulates:

  • Afghanistan
  • Bangladesh
  • Democratic Republic of Congo
  • Nigeria (conditions apply)
  • Some African nations

Entry Requirements & Procedures

Required Documents

Entry Checklist

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond stay
  • Visa or e-Visa (if required)
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking/invitation)
  • Return or onward ticket
  • Sufficient funds ($50 USD per day recommended)
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • HES code (if health requirements active)

Major Entry Points

Airport City Code International Flights
Istanbul Airport Istanbul IST Main international hub - 300+ destinations
Sabiha Gökçen Istanbul SAW Secondary hub - budget airlines
Esenboğa Ankara ESB Capital city airport
Antalya Antalya AYT Major tourist gateway
İzmir Adnan Menderes İzmir ADB Aegean region hub
Dalaman Muğla DLM Southwest coast access
Bodrum-Milas Bodrum BJV Resort destination

ℹ️ Border Crossings

Türkiye has land borders with 8 countries. Major crossings include:

  • Bulgaria: Kapıkule/Kapitan Andreevo
  • Greece: Pazarkule/Kastanies, İpsala/Kipi
  • Georgia: Sarp/Sarpi, Türkgözü/Vale
  • Iran: Gürbulak/Bazargan
  • Iraq: Habur/Ibrahim Khalil

Transportation

Domestic Travel

✈️ Domestic Flights

  • Turkish Airlines - extensive network
  • Pegasus Airlines - budget option
  • AnadoluJet - THY subsidiary
  • Prices: $30-150 USD typically
  • Book early for best rates

🚌 Intercity Buses

  • Extensive network covering all cities
  • Modern, comfortable coaches
  • Major companies: Metro, Kamil Koç, Pamukkale
  • Prices: $10-50 USD for most routes
  • Free snacks and drinks included

🚊 Trains

  • High-speed trains: Ankara-Istanbul (4.5 hours)
  • Ankara-Konya (2 hours)
  • Istanbul-Eskişehir (3 hours)
  • Eastern Express: Ankara-Kars scenic route
  • Marmaray: Under-Bosphorus connection

Urban Transportation

City Metro Tram Bus Transport Card
Istanbul 9 lines Yes Extensive Istanbulkart
Ankara 5 lines No Extensive Ankarakart
İzmir 2 lines Yes Extensive İzmirim Kart
Bursa 2 lines Yes Extensive Bursakart
Antalya 1 line Yes Extensive Antalyakart

Money & Banking

💳 Currency & Cards

  • Currency: Turkish Lira (₺/TRY)
  • ATMs widely available
  • Credit cards accepted in cities
  • Visa/Mastercard most common
  • Contactless payments widespread
  • Keep cash for small vendors

💵 Exchange

  • Airport rates less favorable
  • Exchange offices (Döviz) in cities
  • Banks offer secure exchange
  • USD and EUR widely accepted
  • Avoid street exchangers
  • Check daily rates online

💰 Costs (Daily Budget)

  • Budget: $25-40 USD
  • Mid-range: $50-100 USD
  • Luxury: $150+ USD
  • Meal: $3-15 USD
  • Local transport: $0.50-2 USD
  • Museum entry: $5-15 USD

Health & Medical

ℹ️ Healthcare System

Türkiye has modern healthcare facilities in major cities. Private hospitals often have English-speaking staff. EU citizens can use EHIC cards for emergency treatment.

🏥 Medical Preparation

  • No mandatory vaccinations
  • Routine vaccines recommended
  • Travel insurance essential
  • Prescription medications allowed with doctor's note
  • Pharmacies (Eczane) widely available
  • Emergency number: 112

💊 Common Health Tips

  • Tap water safe in cities
  • Bottled water recommended in rural areas
  • Sun protection essential in summer
  • Food hygiene generally good
  • Altitude sickness possible in eastern regions
  • Air quality varies in large cities

Safety & Security

✓ General Safety

Türkiye is generally safe for tourists. Millions visit annually without incident. Exercise normal precautions as in any destination.

🚨 Emergency Contacts

  • All emergencies: 112
  • Police: 155
  • Fire: 110
  • Medical emergency: 112
  • Tourist Police: 159 (English)
  • Coast Guard: 158

⚠️ Safety Tips

  • Keep copies of documents
  • Register with your embassy
  • Respect local customs
  • Dress modestly at religious sites
  • Avoid political demonstrations
  • Use licensed taxis or apps

🎒 Tourist Areas

  • Tourist police in major destinations
  • CCTV in public areas
  • Hotel safes recommended
  • Beware of overcharging
  • Check bills carefully
  • Avoid isolated areas at night

Climate & Best Time to Visit

Türkiye's diverse geography creates distinct climate zones. Coastal areas enjoy Mediterranean weather, while the interior has continental extremes.

Monthly Weather Guide

January-February
Coast: 10-15°C | Interior: -5-5°C
Winter sports season. Quiet tourism period.
March-April
Coast: 15-20°C | Interior: 10-15°C
Spring blooms. Ideal for cultural sites.
May-June
Coast: 20-28°C | Interior: 15-25°C
Perfect weather. Peak season begins.
July-August
Coast: 28-35°C | Interior: 25-35°C
Hot summer. Beach season. Crowded.
September-October
Coast: 20-28°C | Interior: 15-25°C
Ideal weather returns. Harvest season.
November-December
Coast: 12-18°C | Interior: 5-10°C
Cooler weather. Low season prices.

Packing Essentials

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
  • Modest clothing for mosques
  • Light jacket for evenings
  • Universal adapter (Type C/F plugs)
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Small daypack for excursions
  • Copies of important documents

Cultural Etiquette

🕌 Religious Sites

  • Remove shoes before entering mosques
  • Women should cover hair in mosques
  • Modest dress required
  • No photos during prayer times
  • Silence phones
  • Respect worshippers

🤝 Social Customs

  • Handshakes common in business
  • Cheek kisses among friends
  • Use right hand for eating/greeting
  • Tea (çay) offered frequently
  • Refusing hospitality can offend
  • Tipping: 10-15% in restaurants

📸 Photography

  • Ask permission for portraits
  • No photos at military sites
  • Some museums prohibit photos
  • Drone permits required
  • Respect privacy
  • Commercial use needs permits

⚠️ Final Reminder

This guide provides general information. Requirements and conditions can change. Always verify current information with official sources before traveling. Check your government's travel advisories and register your trip with your embassy or consulate.