Turkey Holidays

What is Turkey famous for?

Turkey is famous for its blend of European and Asian influences that show in everything from its food to its architecture. As for famous landmarks, the country is home to the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, the magical fairy chimneys of Cappadocia and the ancient ruins of Ephesus. Visitors are also drawn to Turkey for its buzzing bazaars, thermal spas and the renowned warmth of its people.

What is the food like in Turkey?

The delicious variety of Turkish cuisine proves exactly why it’s rated among the best in the world. Your tastebuds won’t grow bored, either, as each region has its own specialities:

• The Marmara region has meat, fish, vegetables and fruits in abundance.
• The Aegean region uses plenty of vegetables, herbs, figs, grapes, seafood and olive oil.
• In the Central Anatolia region and the south-east, meat is enjoyed in large quantities, served alongside cereals, rice, bulgur (cracked wheat) and generously spiced vegetables.
• The Black Sea region is known for its corn, anchovies, cabbage and beans.

Despite these differences, common dishes and flavours can be found throughout the country. Meals often begin with soup, flavoured with healthy glugs of olive oil, lemon or vinegar. There’s almost always bread, of course, a staple food for the Turks.

And then there are the desserts. Sweet, light and moreish, you can expect milky, melt-in-the-mouth puddings, sticky syrup-soaked cakes and fried dough balls with crunchy exteriors and soft centres. Let’s not forget the favourite (and famous), baklava, a flaky pistachio-infused delight.

What is the drink like in Turkey?

Tea (cay) is Turkey’s national drink, most of which is produced in the Rize region. With a lengthy infusion process, it’s usually very sweet and served in small glasses. The Turks drink several glasses a day and offer it as a sign of good hospitality. An apple tea infusion has become popular recently, providing a tasty alternative to the classic black variety.

The country also takes its coffee very seriously. Preparation takes longer than you may be used to (no instant stuff here). It’s brewed over hot coals and can be served sade (without sugar), orta (medium sweet) or sekerli (very sweet). Leave the grounds to settle, then drink in small and patient sips.

Efes and Tuborg dominate Turkey’s beer market and are known for their quality (and delicious taste). Another popular alcoholic drink is raki, an anise brandy, which is often diluted with water and served alongside meals.

Do I need to tip in Turkey?

Yes, tipping is common practice in Turkey, and it’s best to tip in Turkish Lira. We recommend:

• £5 per day for a good tour driver.
• 5-10% of the bill in restaurants.
• £1-£2 for porters, housekeeping staff and taxi drivers.

Street performers and sellers may ask for a small tip, too.

How do I haggle in Turkey?

Always negotiate before paying for anything at a market or street stall – haggling is a way of life in Turkey. The secret to success? It’s all about your approach. Lead with a friendly smile and a jovial manner, and you’re sure to be met with good humour from sellers. A good starting point is offering a 50% drop on the marked price. Keep a top price in mind and don’t exceed it (although that’s easier said than done).

Is there anything else I need to know about etiquette in Turkey?

The country’s unrivalled hospitality means it’s likely you’ll be invited to sip tea or even have dinner at someone’s home during your trip. Remember these rules:

• Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home.
• Reach for bread with your right hand, as the left is considered unclean.
• Tuck your feet under the table and never point your feet at anyone, as this is considered offensive.

Other etiquette rules include:

• Wear modest clothing that covers your legs and shoulders if you plan to visit a mosque, and don’t forget to remove your shoes before entering.
• Though bars are common in popular destinations, public drinking and drunkenness are less acceptable in rural parts of the country.
• Public displays of affection are sometimes frowned upon if they’re too overt.
• It’s forbidden to photograph military camps.
• Always get the green light from locals before taking their photo.

Where is Turkey located?

Most of Turkey is in Asia, but part of it extends into Europe. This dual location is what creates the country’s captivating mix of cultures and traditions.

How big is Turkey?

Turkey is approximately 300-400 miles long and 1,000 miles wide.

Can I drink the tap water in Turkey?

No. Tap water is unsafe to drink, so we recommend stocking up on bottled water and avoiding ice in drinks.

When is the best time to visit Turkey?

Generally, the best time to visit Turkey is between April and May or September and October, when temperatures are pleasantly warm but not scorching hot, usually between 20°C and 30°C.

However, Turkey’s topography means there are significant climate variations across the country, which are worth keeping in mind as you plan your trip:

• Central Turkey is cooler in winter with little rainfall, except in spring when wet weather increases slightly. Summers, on the other hand, are very hot.
• Rainfall is much higher in the Pontus region and happens all year round.
• The best time to visit the Anatolian plateau is May, June, September and October, when temperatures are warm but tolerable, never usually reaching beyond the mid-20°Cs.
• The best time to visit Istanbul and the Mediterranean coast is between March and October, when temperatures sit between the mid and high 20°Cs.
• The best time to visit the Black Sea region is between April and September, when rainfall is lighter, and temperatures sit around a pleasant 24°C.
• The best time to visit the eastern Turkey is between June and September, when the weather is hot (25°C to 35°C).

What is the climate in Turkey?

Turkey has a Mediterranean climate, which means mild winters, hot and dry summers, and wetter weather on the coasts.

What adaptor do I need for Turkey?

Turkey uses two plug types:

• Type C, with two round pins
• Type F, with two round pins that have earth clips on the side

The electricity supply is 230V.

What is the time difference in Turkey?

Turkey is three hours ahead of GMT and observes daylight saving hours at the same time as other European countries.

What is the capital of Turkey?

The capital of Turkey is Ankara.

What language is spoken in Turkey?

Turkish is spoken in Turkey, although body language and gestures often convey as much, if not more, expression than speech.

English, French and German are the most common foreign languages spoken in Turkey.

How many people live in Turkey?

The population of Turkey is 87,685,750.

What is the religion in Turkey?

The majority of Turks belong to Sunni Islam, but there are other Muslim communities, such as the Alevis. Jews and Christian minorities have freedom of worship in their communities in large cities.

What is the currency of Turkey?

The currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). It’s easy to get hold of in the UK, but ATMs are also widely available at banks throughout Turkey.

Do I need to pay in cash while I’m in Turkey?

Although credit and debit cards are accepted in many places, some, especially market vendors, prefer to accept cash, so be sure to bring some lira.

When are amenities open in Turkey?

In cities, shops open their doors around 9am and close at 7pm or 8pm. During summer, traders can stay open until midnight.

Banks are open from 9am to 12pm, then 1.30pm to 5pm. They occasionally close in the afternoon, so visit in the morning if you need money, just to be safe.

Most museums are closed on Mondays, though there are exceptions, so it’s best to check before you go. Regular hours are 9am to 5pm, but they vary widely from place to place.

Schedules change every year, so it’s tricky to generalise. But, as a rule, public buildings close between 12pm and 1pm and public services close at the weekend. In the off season, schedules are at each merchant's discretion.

In summer on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, administrations and some public institutions are closed in the afternoon.

Do I need a visa to visit Turkey from the UK?

No, you don’t need a visa to visit Turkey for up to 90 days in a 180-day period.

How long does my passport need to be valid for when I visit Turkey?

Your passport must be valid for at least 150 days after you arrive, with at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps.

Do I need any vaccinations before visiting Turkey?

You must be up to date on your vaccinations for life in the UK. Travel Health Pro recommends vaccinations for Hepatitis A and Tetanus for most travellers, and vaccinations for Hepatitis B, Rabies and Typhoid for those at risk.