Turkey Travel Tips

Visas

Turkey visa requirements can vary according to nationality. For many nationalities, Turkey operates an e-visa system.

Information regarding Turkish e-visas and the application process can be found at: https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/

General information on Turkish visas can be found at:

http://www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information-for-foreigners.en.mfa

Time zone

Turkey is on Eastern European Time, seven hours ahead of U.S. EST. When it is 6am in New York, it is 1pm in Ankara, the capital city of Turkey.

When to travel to Turkey?

Turkey is divided in 7 different districts. The Marmara, Aegean and Mediterranean coasts display a typical Mediterranean climate of hot summers and mild winters. July and August are the hottest months with temperatures around 86°F (30°C) and the humidity is around %40 during summer in these regions. The swimming season, for along the Marmara and North Aegean coasts is from June to September, and for along the South Aegean and Mediterranean coasts is from April to October.

The Black Sea Region has a moderate climate; the summers are warm, winters are mild. In this region the rainfalls are heavier than in any other region. The swimming season in the Black Sea Region is from June to early September and the weather is not so dependable. There is quite a difference between the coastal regions and the inland regions which are at higher altitudes.

The climate reaches its extremes in central and eastern Anatolia with hot, dry summers when the temperatures may reach 100°F (40°C), and cold, snowy winters. Spring and autumn are best for sightseeing and traveling.

Visiting a Mosque

Visitor should avoid visiting the mosque during prayer time and wait the end of the ceremony.

Visitors should remove their shoes before entering a mosque. Men should not wear shorts. Women should cover their heads, arms and not wear miniskirts.

Food

Turkish culinary art has a long history and enjoys a high reputation in the world. Tasting Turkey’s rich and exotic dishes is a must during your visit with the most notable being; kebabs, pides (a flat bread base with various toppings), seafood dishes on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, and sweet delicacies such as Turkish Delight, baklava and helva. Vegetarian and vegan travelers will be delighted to discover Turkey's rich cuisine variety of vegetables.

Currency

The local currency in Turkey is Turkish Lira. Although most places would prefer cash, you can also pay with Amex,Visa and Mastercard. US Dollars and Euro are the easiest currencies to convert and change offices offer the best rates. There are many ATMs (cash machines) throughout the cities but check with your own bank beforehand about overseas withdrawal fees.

To bargain is very common in local shops. You might get up to 50% off from bigger purchases.