As an introduction to the country, Istanbul, Antalya and Bodrum offer excellent entry points. Stand up paddleboarding is an increasingly popular pastime in the Mediterranean off the coast of Turkey. Located at the historic crossroads between east and west, Turkey has long held a romantic sway over travellers.
How do I travel to Turkey for the first time?
Things to Know for Your First Trip to Turkey
- Check to see if you need a visa in order to visit Turkey.
- As a rule, tap water is not drinkable.
- Water fountains are non-existent, buy a big jug and refill your own bottle.
- Istanbul’s public transit is fantastic – use it!
- Don’t be afraid to explore aimlessly.
Which part of Turkey should I visit?
Istanbul is undoubtedly the tourist capital of Turkey but its real capital, Ankara, is well worth a visit, as are the magnificent seaside resorts of Izmir, Antalya, Bodrum and Marmaris. If you have time, don’t hesitate for a second and plan a real road trip in Turkey.
Which is the best area to stay in Turkey?
The best places to stay in Turkey:
- Alanya. Every year, thousands of tourists visit Alanya, one of the most popular seaside resorts in Turkey.
- Side. Halfway between Alanya and Antalya lies the charming resort town of Side, another extremely popular place to stay in Turkey.
- Antalya.
- Kemer.
- Cappadocia.
- Marmaris.
- Bodrum.
- Istanbul.
Which part of Turkey is most beautiful?
10 of the most beautiful places in Turkey
- The Fairy Chimneys of Cappadocia. High on the Anatolian plateau, the curious landscapes of Cappadocia resemble a fantasy world.
- The pools of Pamukkale.
- Blue Lagoon, Olüdeniz.
- Gümüşlük, Bodrum.
- The domes of Istanbul.
- Patara.
- Kaş
- Ephesus.
What should I avoid in Turkey?
14 Things Not To Do In Turkey
- Don’t Wear Shoes In Worship Places.
- Do Not Forget Table Etiquette.
- Avoid Obscuring A Praying Person’s View.
- Do Not Disrespect Ramadan Customs.
- Do Not Board A Cab Without A Taxi Logo.
- Do Not Wear Revealing Clothes.
- Do Not Misuse The Turkish Language.
- Avoid Leaving Food On Your Plate.
How many days in Turkey is enough?
Although there’s plenty to do in Turkey to fill an entire month or more, we suggest Turkey itineraries that are between five to ten days, with a week-long holiday being the best for most travelers.
Is Istanbul or Antalya better?
Both Antalya and Istanbul have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than Antalya. The ideal length of time for a trip to Antalya is 2-5 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Istanbul is 3-7 days.
Is Bodrum or Antalya better?
Bodrum has more minor ancient sites to include the utter ruins of one of the seven ancient wonders (the Mausoleum of Mausolus) but Antalya has more excellent ancient sites available as a reasonable day trip.
Is Marmaris or Antalya better?
So, is Antalya or Marmaris best for you this year? That all really depends on what you’re after from your vacation. If you’re looking to enjoy the classic vibes of a resort on the Med, with evenings of drinking and dancing followed by days of sailing from pebble cove to pebble cove, we’d 100% recommend Marmaris.
Where should you not stay in Turkey?
Places in Turkey to Avoid
As of January 2020 there are travel warnings in place for pretty much anywhere near the border with Syria, and an “all but essential travel” warning from the British government for the following provinces: Sirnak, Mardin, Sanliurfa, Kilis, and Hatay, as well as Tunceli and Hakari.
Is Bodrum or Marmaris better?
Marmaris has more humidity and is a hotter resort than Bodrum. So if you don’t mind baking hot temperatures, choose Marmaris. If on the contrary, you prefer a bit of a cool breeze – then go to Bodrum. Both Marmaris and Bodrum are resort-cities popular with Turkish and European youth.
Is Antalya worth visiting?
Antalya is a resort city with beautiful beaches, impressive hotels, historic sites, and a yacht-filled old Roman harbor. All reasons that make it a worth visiting destination.
What should you not miss in Turkey?
12 Things You Don’t Want To Miss In Turkey
- Paraglide above Ölüdeniz.
- Indulge in one of the World’s Finest Cuisines.
- Visit Ephesus.
- Try the National Drink- Ayran.
- Spot Sea Turtles in Dalyan.
- Visit Istanbul.
- Get Your Caffeine Fix.
- Drink Çay and Play Tavla.
Is Antalya safe?
Overall Antalya is a safe place to visit with over 10 million visiting tourists from all over the world each year. Antalya is not located near any war zones nor is it a politically relevant city in Turkey.
What is the best time to visit Turkey?
April, May, September and October are pleasantly warm, with temperatures of 68°F to 86°F, so are typically the best times to visit Turkey’s grand array of ancient sites. The summer months (June through to September) are very hot, with temperatures reaching the mid-thirties on the south coast.
What’s rude in Turkey?
It is customary for Turkish men to escort women to a seat and to the bathroom during a meal. It is considered rude/disrespectful to chew gum whilst talking to someone of a higher status or at a formal occasion. Avoid sitting in any position that allows one’s shoe to face another person. This is considered insulting.
What is forbidden in Turkey?
Smoking is prohibited on public transport and in all indoor workplaces and public places. Smoking is restricted in some outdoor areas where cultural, artistic, sports or entertainment activities are held. Turkey has strict laws against the use, possession or trafficking of illegal drugs.
Can you kiss in public in Turkey?
Turkey is a largely Muslim population and showing your affection in public can sometimes be frowned upon, especially in the more traditional neighborhoods. Make sure to keep your amorous moments private so that you don’t have to deal with unhappy stares.
Why you should not go to Turkey?
Do not travel to Sirnak province, Hakkari province, or any area within six miles (ten kilometers) of the Turkey/Syria border due to the continued threat of attacks by terrorist groups, armed conflict, and civil unrest.
What should I avoid in Istanbul?
10 Things Not To Do In Istanbul
- Don’t Stay Close To The Sights.
- Don’t Take The Tram In Istiklal.
- Avoid Shopping In Istiklal.
- Don’t Buy Apple Tea.
- Don’t Get Tempted By Everything That You See.
- Don’t Hesitate From Trying The Street Food.
- Avoid Going To Burger King Or McDonald’s.
- Avoid Eating Close To Touristic Places.
Marilyn Medina is a food expert with over 15 years of experience in the culinary industry. She has worked in some of the most prestigious kitchens in the world, including The Ritz-Carlton and The French Laundry.
What makes Marilyn stand out from other chefs is her unique approach to cooking. She believes that food should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their budget or dietary restrictions. Her recipes are simple, delicious, and healthy – perfect for anyone who wants to cook like a pro!