Turkey - Travel Guide

ID and Passports

Travelers from the following regions can enter Turkey using just a national ID card:

European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries: This includes all EU countries plus Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein.
Switzerland: Swiss citizens can also enter with their ID card.

Ensure your ID card is valid for the duration of your stay.

Most international travelers can enter Turkey with a valid passport. Here's a general guide:

Visa-Free Entry

Travelers from many countries, including but not limited to:

United States
Canada
Australia
New Zealand
Japan
South Korea
Most EU countries

Can enter Turkey without a visa for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

Visa Required

Citizens from countries not listed above might need to obtain a visa before traveling to Turkey. Check the latest visa requirements based on your nationality.

Remember, your passport should typically be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from Turkey.

Toll Roads in Turkey

Turkey has several toll roads, especially around major cities like Istanbul and along major highways:

Toll Locations: Notable toll roads include the bridges in Istanbul, highways connecting major cities, and some tunnels.
Payment: Tolls can usually be paid in cash or by card at toll booths.

Driving Tips:

Right-Hand Driving: Drive on the right side of the road.
Road Conditions: Major highways are well-maintained, but rural roads can be less so.
Speed Limits: Typically, 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on open roads, and 120 km/h on motorways.
Winter Driving: Winter tires are mandatory from December to March in many regions.

Weather in Turkey

Overview

Turkey's climate varies significantly by region:

Seasons

Summer (June to August): Hot and dry, especially along the coast, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Inland areas can be much hotter, sometimes reaching above 40°C (104°F).
Winter (December to February): Cold in the interior and mountainous regions, with snow, while coastal areas like the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts experience milder winters with occasional rain.
Spring (March to May): Mild to warm with occasional showers, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Flowers bloom, particularly in April.
Autumn (September to November): Warm to mild, with temperatures gradually cooling down. This period can be ideal for visiting as it's less crowded than summer.

Regional Variations

Mediterranean Coast (Antalya, Alanya): Hot summers, mild winters. Expect temperatures around 25-35°C in summer and 10-20°C in winter.
Aegean Coast (Izmir, Bodrum): Similar to the Mediterranean but with slightly cooler summers due to sea breezes.
Black Sea Region: Rainy throughout the year, with mild summers (20-25°C) and cool, wet winters.
Central Anatolia (Ankara, Cappadocia): Hot summers (30-35°C) with cold, snowy winters. Temperature swings can be dramatic.
Eastern Anatolia: The coldest part of Turkey, with harsh winters and hot summers. Cities like Erzurum can see temperatures below -20°C in winter.

Weather Tips

Clothing: Light clothing for summer, but always carry a light jacket or shawl for cooler evenings or air-conditioned places.
Sun Protection: High UV levels in summer, especially along the coasts. Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
Rain Gear: For the Black Sea region or during spring/autumn, carry an umbrella or raincoat.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during hot summer days.

Currency in Turkey

The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY).

Banknotes and Coins

Turkish Lira banknotes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 TRY. Coins are available in 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 kuruş, and 1 TRY.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are widely available at airports, banks, and exchange offices (called "Döviz Bürosu"). Credit and debit cards are accepted in most urban areas, but carrying cash is advisable for rural areas or smaller transactions.

Travel Tips

Card Payments: Inform your bank of your travel to avoid card issues. Some places might charge extra for card payments.
ATMs: Known as "Parabank" or "ATM", they are widespread for cash withdrawals. Be cautious of ATM skimming devices.
Tipping: While not mandatory, tipping for good service in restaurants or taxis is appreciated, typically 5-10%.
Exchange Rates: Check the current exchange rates as the Turkish Lira can be volatile. Exchanging money at official exchange offices often gives better rates than hotels or airports.

What do you need if you travel to Turkey?