Turkey Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

Turkish cuisine blends Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors, offering a unique culinary experience. In Istanbul, don’t miss street food like Döner kebab and Balık Ekmek (fish sandwich). Sweet lovers will adore Turkish delight (Lokum) and Baklava, layered with nuts and syrup. Turkish coffee, brewed strong and served with grounds for fortune-telling, is a cultural must-try.

Turkey is a transcontinental country spanning Europe and Asia, boasting rich history, culture, and natural landscapes. Istanbul, the largest city, is a top destination for many travelers. The city offers excellent public transportation, including metro, tram, and ferry systems. We recommend purchasing an Istanbulkart, which allows unlimited rides on various modes of transport, saving both time and money.

For long-distance travel, Turkey's domestic flights are affordable and efficient for traveling between major cities. Additionally, the intercity bus network is well-developed, offering comfortable and budget-friendly options. Renting a car is also a viable choice, but be mindful of local traffic rules and road conditions.

When traveling in Turkey, it's advisable to plan your itinerary in advance, avoid peak tourist seasons (like summer), and respect local cultural and religious customs, such as dressing modestly when visiting mosques.

Turkey is a transcontinental country spanning Europe and Asia, boasting rich historical culture and natural landscapes. Istanbul is one of the most popular tourist cities in Turkey, home to famous attractions such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Cappadocia is renowned for its unique rock formations and hot air balloon rides, making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Additionally, the thermal springs and white travertine terraces of Pamukkale are a must-see natural wonder.

The best time to visit is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild, perfect for outdoor activities, and avoids the extreme heat of summer and the cold of winter.

1. Safety Tip: Turkey is generally safe, but beware of pickpockets in crowded areas like Istanbul's bazaars and public transport.
2. Cultural Etiquette: Remove shoes before entering mosques; women should carry a scarf to cover hair and avoid revealing clothing.
3. Weather Prep: Summers (Jun-Aug) are hot and dry—pack sunscreen and water; some regions have snow in winter, so bring warm layers.
4. Transport Advice: Long-distance buses are comfortable, but driving requires caution on narrow mountain roads; use Istanbulkart for city transit.
5. Dining Note: Avoid tap water; bottled water is recommended. Embrace tea (çay) and coffee culture—politely accept local invitations to drink.
6. Currency Exchange: Lira exchange rates fluctuate; use banks or authorized exchangers. Friendly haggling is common in markets.
7. Attraction HopeGoo: Book tickets online for popular sites like Hagia Sophia to skip long queues.
8. Language Tips: English works in tourist areas, but basic Turkish greetings (e.g., Merhaba) enhance local interactions.

Turkey, spanning Europe and Asia, is a captivating travel destination with rich history, culture, and natural landscapes.

Language: The official language is Turkish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas and major cities.

Internet & Communication: Major cities and tourist spots have good network coverage. Purchasing a local SIM card is recommended for internet access and communication.

Currency & Payments: The official currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but carrying some cash is advisable.

Emergency Handling: In case of emergencies, dial 112 (ambulance) or 155 (police). It’s recommended to save the contact details of the Chinese embassy or consulate in Turkey.

Travel Tips: Turkey’s cultural customs differ from Western countries. When visiting mosques, dress modestly, and women are advised to wear a headscarf.