10 Turkey travel tips you need to go before you go

Dreaming of a trip to Turkey? Then you’re definitely in the right place. With these Turkey travel tips, you’ll leave well prepared.

Turkey surprises you from the very first moment. You move from colourful bazaars to peaceful beaches. You discover ancient history as well as modern hotspots. Every region feels completely different. In Istanbul, you experience culture and energy everywhere around you. In Cappadocia, you look out over fairytale-like landscapes. Along the coast, you can enjoy sunshine and crystal-clear water.

Turkish cuisine also makes your trip unforgettable. From simple street food to flavourful, extensive dinners, there is something for everyone. Wherever you go, you’ll receive a warm welcome. Turkey is a destination that keeps surprising you. The better prepared you are, the more you will get out of your journey. With these 10 Turkey travel tips, your trip will become an experience you’ll never forget.

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About Turkey

Turkey lies on the border between Europe and Asia, making it feel like two worlds in one. Around 97% of the country is located in Asia, while about 3% lies in Europe. It borders countries such as Greece, Bulgaria, and Georgia. Thanks to its location, Turkey is both a diverse and easily accessible destination.

What makes Turkey so special is its incredible variety. You can explore vibrant cities like Istanbul, where east and west come together. Think impressive mosques, bustling bazaars, and trendy neighbourhoods. At the same time, you can travel to places like Cappadocia, famous for its unique rock formations and hot air balloons.

Nature lovers will also feel right at home here. Along the Turkish Riviera, you can enjoy turquoise seas and sun-soaked beaches. Inland, you’ll find breathtaking natural wonders such as Pamukkale, known for its white travertine terraces and thermal springs, alongside mountains, valleys, and peaceful villages. The perfect place to slow down for a while.

And then there’s the Turkish cuisine. From fresh mezze to fragrant grilled dishes and sweet baklava, food is an important part of the culture here.

With so much to see and do, it’s worth preparing your trip well. With these 10 Turkey travel tips, you’ll get the most out of your stay.

10 Turkey travel tips you need to go before you go

1 – How to Travel to Turkey

Travelling from Belgium to Turkey is easy and convenient. There are several options, depending on your budget and travel style.

The fastest and most popular option is flying. From Belgium, you can take direct flights to cities such as Istanbul, Antalya, or Izmir. Most flights depart from Brussels Airport or Brussels South Charleroi Airport. The flight usually takes around three to four hours.

Would you like more freedom during your trip? Then you can also drive to Turkey by car. It’s a long road trip that takes several days. Along the way, you pass through different countries, making the journey even more adventurous.

Another option is travelling by bus. International bus connections to Turkey are available and are often cheaper, although the travel time is much longer.

Once you arrive in Turkey, getting around is easy. Domestic flights are affordable and can save you a lot of time. The bus network is also well organised and connects almost every region of the country.

2 – Passport, visa, and vaccinations

Travelling to Turkey from Belgium is quite straightforward when it comes to travel requirements.

As a Belgian traveller, you need a valid identity card or passport. Both are accepted for tourist trips to Turkey. Make sure your travel document is still valid for a sufficient period upon arrival.

For stays of up to 90 days, you do not need a visa. This makes travelling to Turkey even more accessible. If you plan to stay longer or travel for work, different rules apply.

Upon arrival, you may sometimes be asked to show your return ticket or proof of accommodation. It’s therefore a good idea to keep this information nearby.

There are no mandatory vaccinations for Turkey. The country has a well-developed healthcare system. However, it is recommended to keep your basic vaccinations up to date.

Think of vaccinations such as tetanus and hepatitis A, especially if you plan to travel outside the main tourist areas.

Before departure, always check the latest travel advice. That way, you can start your trip well prepared and worry-free.

3 – How to get around in Turkey

Getting around Turkey is easier than you might think. The country is large, so the best option often depends on the region you are visiting.

For long distances, domestic flights are ideal. You can quickly travel between cities such as Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir. Flights are often affordable and save you a lot of time.

The bus is also a very popular option. Turkey has a well-organised and comfortable bus network. You can reach almost every part of the country, even smaller towns and villages.

Within cities, you can easily use the metro, tram, and buses. In Istanbul, public transport is extensive and efficient. Taxis are also easy to find, but it’s best to agree on a price beforehand.

Would you like more freedom? Then renting a car is an excellent choice, especially for exploring regions such as Cappadocia or the Turkish Riviera.

Driving in Turkey is quite manageable. You drive on the right side of the road, and your European driving licence is valid. Keep in mind that driving can be more assertive, especially in large cities like Istanbul. Speed limits are generally around 50 km/h in cities, 90 km/h outside urban areas, and 120 km/h on motorways. Parking in cities is often paid, while outside the cities it is usually not a problem.

For shorter distances, walking is often the best way to truly experience local life.

4 – The best time to travel to Turkey

The best time to visit Turkey depends on what you want to do. The country is large, and the climate varies from region to region.

The months of May, June, September, and October are ideal. Temperatures are pleasant, and it is generally less crowded. Perfect for sightseeing and road trips.

Summer is the most popular season for a beach holiday. Along the Turkish Riviera, you can enjoy plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. In cities such as Antalya, however, it can become extremely hot.

For cities like Istanbul, spring and autumn are usually the best choices. The weather is milder and much more comfortable for exploring. Planning to visit Cappadocia? Then spring and autumn are once again the ideal seasons, helping you avoid extreme heat or cold.

Winter is quieter and often more affordable. In some regions, you may even experience snow, giving your trip a completely different atmosphere.

Whatever time of year you choose, make sure to prepare well. That way, you’ll get the most out of your trip to Turkey.

5 – Booking an accommodation in Turkey

When booking accommodation in Turkey, you’ll find plenty of options. It all depends on your budget and travel style.

In cities such as Istanbul and Izmir, you can choose from luxury hotels to budget-friendly stays. Along the coast, especially in Antalya, you’ll also find many resorts and all-inclusive hotels.

Do you prefer atmosphere and unique experiences? Then boutique hotels are a wonderful option. Think of unique stays in Cappadocia, often located in traditional cave houses. Personally, I almost always choose a boutique hotel. It makes your trip feel just that little bit more special.

For longer stays, renting an apartment can be very convenient. You’ll have more space and flexibility, which is ideal if you plan to stay in one place for several days.

Travelling on a smaller budget? Then hostels are a great option. You’ll mainly find them in larger cities and popular tourist regions.

Keep in mind that prices rise significantly during summer. It’s therefore best to book early, especially for popular destinations. Below, you’ll find a Booking.com map where you can easily discover accommodation options by location.

6 – Paying and Tipping in Turkey

In Turkey, the local currency is the Turkish lira (TRY). In many tourist areas, you can also pay in euros, although this is often less favourable.

In most hotels, restaurants, and shops, especially in cities like Istanbul, you can pay by debit or credit card. Still, it’s always useful to carry some cash with you.

In smaller villages and local markets, cash is often the only accepted payment method. ATMs are widely available and easy to use. Keep exchange rates and possible bank fees in mind. Paying in the local currency is usually the best option.

Tipping is common and appreciated in Turkey, especially when the service is good. In restaurants, it is customary to leave around 5 to 10 percent tip.

In cafés and bars, people often round up the bill. The same applies to taxi rides.

Staying at a hotel? Then it’s also common to leave a small tip for the staff, such as housekeeping or luggage service.

7 – Wifi / 4G in Turkey

In Turkey, wifi and 4G coverage are generally very good. In cities such as Istanbul and Antalya, the connection is usually fast and reliable.

Most hotels, cafés, and restaurants offer free wifi. This is ideal for quickly looking something up or planning your route.

Keep in mind that Turkey is not part of the European Union. This means you will often pay roaming charges when using your Belgian SIM card. Make sure to check this with your provider before travelling.

A local SIM card or eSIM is often the best option. This way, you’ll have internet access everywhere without high extra costs. You can easily buy one at the airport or in the city.

Outside the cities, the signal may sometimes be weaker, especially in remote areas or mountainous regions such as Cappadocia. It’s therefore a good idea to download maps or important information in advance.

In Turkey, type C and F power sockets are used. These are compatible with Belgian plugs, so you won’t need an adapter.

8 – Understanding the Local Culture

Turkey has a warm and welcoming culture. However, people may seem a little distant at first. In shops or restaurants, service can sometimes appear serious or business-like. This is often seen as a sign of professionalism rather than unfriendliness. Once you start interacting, you’ll usually notice a great deal of warmth and hospitality.

Turkey is a secular country with a strong religious influence. Around 99% of the population is Muslim, mainly Sunni Muslim. Throughout the country, you’ll see beautiful mosques everywhere. Five times a day, you can hear the call to prayer echo through the streets. It is truly part of the atmosphere and experience of Turkey. During prayer times, most tourist attractions remain open as usual.

Showing respect for the local culture is highly appreciated. Outside tourist areas, it’s best to dress a little more modestly. When visiting a mosque, make sure to cover your shoulders and knees. Women are also often asked to cover their hair with a scarf. Shoes should always be removed before entering. It’s also polite to ask permission before photographing people, especially older locals, who usually appreciate this very much.

9 – Must-Try Specialities in Turkey

During your trip to Turkey, you’ll discover a cuisine full of flavour and tradition. Food is an important part of the culture here.

Start with Meze. These are small dishes shared at the table. Think hummus, stuffed vine leaves, and yoghurt-based dips. Perfect for tasting and sharing together.

You also shouldn’t miss Kebab. Every region has its own variation. From grilled meat to flavourful stews, the dishes are always rich in taste.

Looking for something quick? Try a dürüm or gözleme. They are perfect as street food and surprisingly delicious.

Seafood lovers will also feel at home along the coast, especially in Izmir. There, you can enjoy fresh fish with beautiful sea views.

For dessert, there is Baklava. Layers of filo pastry filled with nuts and honey. It tastes even better with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee. And Turkish coffee is something you definitely have to try. It is strong, rich, and full of flavour.

Turkey is truly a paradise for food lovers. You’ll discover flavours here that you won’t find anywhere else.

10 – Traces of History

Turkey is a country where history is present everywhere. Travelling through Turkey feels like moving through different time periods.

In Istanbul, you can clearly see how cultures come together. Visit impressive landmarks such as Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Here, you can feel the influence of both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.

Outside the city, there is even more to discover. In Cappadocia, you’ll find ancient cave houses and underground cities. It’s a unique destination unlike anywhere else in the world.

Along the west coast, you can visit ancient cities such as Ephesus. Here, you walk among impressive ruins dating back to Greek and Roman times.

Besides that, the country is filled with castles, temples, and historical sites, each with its own story to tell.

If you truly want to understand Turkey, take the time to explore these places. That’s when the country’s rich past really comes to life.

Thank you for reading. 

Yours truly,  

Sarah 

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