Welcome to Turkey

In Turkey, it’s less a question of what to do first and more a challenge of how to do all of it. You’ll be spinning like a, well, whirling dervish as you prioritize your sightseeing in this remarkable country.

There’s ancient history in Ephesus and Istanbul, diverse landscapes from fairy chimneys to subterranean cave networks, and adventures from river rafting to hiking. Start with a history lesson in Ephesus, dating back to the 10th century BC and home to the Temple of Artemis and the Library of Celsus. Visit Istanbul’s Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar. Dip into the milky-white thermal waters of dreamy Pamukkale.

Set off for a hot-air balloon flight over Cappadocia and its otherworldly rock formations. Walk the Lycian Way trail, then get a scrubdown and massage in a historic hammam. Dine heartily on Aegean produce and Anatolian kebabs, saving room for decadent baklava for dessert. Rich in culture, staggering in beauty, Turkey defines the eastern European experience.

Unique Facts

• The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul dates back to 1455 and boasts 61 streets with more than 3,000 shops. It’s essentially a 333,000-square-foot shopping mall, so get ready to spend hours, or even days, discovering it all.
• There are 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Turkey, including the Gobekli Tepe, Ephesus and Gallipoli.
• In Turkey, you can cross from Europe to Asia underground. The Marmaray metro line runs under the Bosphorus Strait.
• The Grotto of St. Peter, outside Antakya, was the first-ever Christian church. It is believed to have been created by Simon Peter, one of Jesus’ disciples.
• It is said that Santa Claus was born in Patara, Turkey. St. Nicholas, the historical figure inspiring Santa Claus, was born there in 300 AD. He was believed to perform miracles, be extremely generous and became one of the patron saints of sailors.

Language

Turkey’s official language is Turkish.

When To Go

The best time to go to Turkey is April, May, September or October. The summer months, June through September, are very hot.

Airports

Istanbul Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry for six months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

Yes

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccines for most travelers when visiting Turkey: Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need Hepatitis B and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types C and F. Standard voltage: 230V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Turkish Lira

Getting Around

Roads in Turkey range from single-lane country roads to modern, divided motorways. Highways in the tourist-frequented western, southwestern, and coastal regions of Turkey are generally in good condition and are well maintained, while conditions in other areas vary. Be extremely cautious while driving at night.

Turkey was a well-established public transportation system. Major cities offer taxis, subways, ferries, trains, buses and minibuses. Several cities also offer above-ground tram service. Between cities, Turkey offers bus, train and air service.

Driver’s License

A valid US driver’s license is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Ankara
110 Atatürk Blvd.
Kavaklidere, 06100 Ankara
Turkey
Telephone: +(90) (312) 455-5555
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(90) (312) 455-5555
Fax: +(90) (312) 466-5684

Local Visitor Info

For a complete list of visitor information centers in Turkey, visit https://www.goturkeytourism.com/planning-holiday/tourist-information-offices-in-turkey.html

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

General Emergency: 112

Safety and Security

The overall street crime rate in Turkey is low. Pickpocketing, purse snatching and mugging happens on occasion.