UK
Where Continents and Cultures Collide
Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey offers a rich tapestry of history, cuisine, and landscapes — from ancient ruins and Ottoman palaces to turquoise coastlines and vibrant bazaars.
Air Travel
Direct flights from London to Istanbul, Antalya, and Dalaman take around 4–5 hours. Other cities like Izmir and Ankara are accessible via domestic connections.
Airlines
British Airways, Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, and easyJet offer direct routes. Emirates, Lufthansa, and Qatar Airways provide excellent one-stop options.
Turkey
Where Continents and Cultures Collide
Landmark
Travel Season
- Spring (Apr–Jun) and Autumn (Sep–Nov): Mild and ideal for sightseeing
- Summer (Jul–Aug): Hot and busy — best for beaches
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Snow in the east, mild in coastal areas
Currency & Money Tips
- Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY)
- Credit cards widely accepted; cash preferred in markets
- ATMs are plentiful; exchange rates better in town than at airports
- Tipping is appreciated (5–10% in restaurants)
Connectivity
- Free Wi-Fi in hotels, cafes, and airports
- Local SIM cards (Turkcell, Vodafone, Türk Telekom) available at airports
- Pocket Wi-Fi and eSIMs are popular for longer stays
Getting Around
- Domestic flights for long distances
- Metro and trams in Istanbul and Ankara
- Intercity buses are affordable and reliable
- Ride-hailing apps: BiTaksi and Uber (limited availability)
Time Zone
- Turkey Time (TRT) – GMT+3
Etiquette & Culture
- Remove shoes before entering homes and mosques
- Dress modestly in religious sites
- Greet with a handshake or “Merhaba” (hello)
- English is spoken in tourist areas; Turkish is the official language
Top Destinations
- Istanbul: History, shopping, and Bosphorus cruises
- Antalya: Beaches and ancient ruins
- Cappadocia: Balloon rides and cave hotels
- Izmir: Coastal charm and nearby Ephesus
- Bodrum & Marmaris: Nightlife and sailing
- Fethiye: Lagoon beaches and paragliding
fastfood Food & Drink
- Must-try: Kebabs, Meze, Börek, Lahmacun, Baklava, Turkish Delight
- Turkish tea and coffee are cultural staples
- Tap water is safe in cities but bottled is preferred
- Alcohol available in licensed venues
personal_bag What to Pack
- Lightweight clothing and modest attire for mosques
- Power adapter (Type C/F plugs)
- Sunscreen, hat, and walking shoes
- Reusable water bottle and travel-size toiletries
Best Time to Visit
- April–June: Spring blossoms and cultural festivals
- September–October: Autumn colours and fewer crowds
- July–August: Great for coastal holidays
health_and_safety Safety & Health
- Turkey is generally safe in tourist areas
- Emergency numbers: 112 (general)
- Travel insurance is essential
- Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus; check latest health advice