I recommend using this flight search engine, which is a great tool for finding the best flight deals, especially if you have flexible travel dates. Istanbul Airport (IST) also offers direct flights to and from the Americas and Africa. On the other hand, winter can be very cold in the northern part of the country, along the Black Sea or in the Anatolia Viaggi in Turchia region, but it’s a great time for skiing or engaging in other winter sports. Although in many tourist places, you’ll find people who speak English and even other languages. Always go to official exchange offices, and if possible, avoid exchanging at the airport. If you can, wait until you reach the city or exchange only a small amount.
It’s ok to flirt and enjoy attention, but beware…and never send money. Likewise, someone may approach you standing in line at the Hagia Sophia, or other landmark offering to be your quide and skip the queue. Often overpriced, they usually are not official guides and end up taking you somewhere for a commission, like a carpet store, after the ‘brief’ tour.
One of the best places to enjoy Turkish ice cream in Istanbul is at one of the many street carts that can be found throughout the city. These carts generally have a wide selection of flavors to choose from, and the ice cream is usually served in a cone or cup. It is also typically flavored with vanilla, chocolate, or pistachio. The tour price includes dinner, soft drinks, and limited local drinks; however, you’ll need to pay extra if you want imported drinks.
Blue Mosque
This centuries-old tradition offers a truly relaxing and unique experience in Türkiye, allowing you to unwind while immersing yourself in Turkish culture. A visit to a hammam must be on every Türkiye bucket list for anyone looking for an authentic and rejuvenating experience. Lake Van offers a peaceful and scenic retreat, making it one of the most serene unique experiences in Türkiye. The largest lake in the country, Lake Van is surrounded by stunning mountains, providing picturesque views that make it a hidden gem for your Türkiye bucket list. Exploring Istanbul, you experience a city that balances ancient history with modern energy.
How To Get Around Türkiye?
Cheap, frequent domestic flights, generally well-maintained roads and a vast bus network give travelers ample options for getting around Turkey. Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush). According to 2021 statistical records, one out of 10 people said that they drank more than five cups of coffee daily. Today, tea and coffee are an indispensable part of Turkish culture. Whether riding across the Bosphorus or shopping in the Grand Bazaar and the shopping malls, you will see tea servers shouting “cay” (chai). Doner Kebab is a meat dish that consists of bread stuffed with meat shavings, sliced tomatoes, and onions, including a mayo-yogurt sauce and sauce blanche.
Akyarlar offers several lodging alternatives which suit a range of budgets and tastes. For instance, Xanadu Island offers upscale lodging, while La Brezza Suite & Hotel offers lower-budget accommodation. No matter your choice, you’ll find that the sea will always be just a step away. The Aegean is generally the least developed coastline and on Gökçeada, you’ll find a host of family-run pensions (guest houses).
Vegetarians and vegans will find plenty of options in Turkish cuisine as well, with dishes like stuffed vine leaves (dolma), grilled vegetables, and lentil soups. Nobody is stopping you from having an Instagrammable strawberry daiquiri on the beach every now and then, but make sure you don’t drink too much alcohol in the sun. You will feel retched later on, and it will only dehydrate you further.
It may not be the most exciting part of planning your trip, but securing your insurance could really help you out if anything happens to you and you need medical treatment or your flight is canceled. A local SIM card will also come in useful for using apps such as Uber to travel around the city with ease. Getting yourself a local SIM card is really helpful for your trip and this is one of my Turkey travel tips for you. You can use your bank card or credit card to pay just about anything – hotels, cafes, attraction tickets and more.
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews. The most exciting part of your day could easily involve Turkish cuisine, which offers an impressive glimpse into this city’s status as a Turkish melting pot.
End your day with an amazing meal at one of Istanbul’s many upscale restaurants. You can continue to explore Turkish cuisine, but you’ll also find many other culinary traditions represented at Istanbul’s finest establishments. If you’re craving Japanese specialties and another rooftop experience, head to Kumiko Sushi & More. Otherwise, expand your gastronomic horizons as you sample the fusion cuisine at Avlu.
Nestled in the heart of Sultanahmet, Sirkeci Mansion is walking distance from the Hagia Sophia, Gulhane Park, and Topkapi Palace. The hotel contains 32 spacious rooms, a spa, and an on-site restaurant. Relax at the hotel’s Turkish hamam, or head up to the hotel’s rooftop, with its sweeping views of the old city.